Niche Magazine Issue 12

January 16 / Issue 12

The

APP ISSUE TALK BUSINESS

Wedding

SPECIAL

International FASHION

COVER STORY

SWIPE & TAP

#FindYourNiche FASHION | BUSINESS | HEALTH | FOOD | SPORTS

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

M

P

R

Styling SINCE 1996

S

S A L O N

LEICESTER KING STREET, LE1 6RJ ANSTEY THE NOOK, LE7 7AZ NARBOROUGH CARLTON PARK, LE19 0LF ASHBY-DE-LA-ZOUCH CASTLEGATE HOUSE, LE65 2FH

0844 445 2888 www.barriestephenhair.co.uk facebook.com/BarrieStephenHair twitter. @BStephenSalons instagram. @barriestephenhair

THE GREAT BRITISH PUB Does your company reward its team members?

Have you thought about how a Traditional pub night could help you?

Steamin’ Billy can offer your company a range of fun and engaging activities including darts competitions, race nights, shuv halfpenny, pub quizzes, beer festivals, tutored beer

We have a pub to suit you around Leicester and the East Midlands...

tastings and whiskey tastings with experts.

Food Pubs

And of course the usual Steamin’ Billy friendly offering...

The Parcel Yard, The Cow & Plough, The Paget, The Railway and The Coronation

excellent real ales, great wines and continental lagers and good honest pub grub including pea and pie suppers, traditional fish and chips and hog roasts.

Our company pub nights are an excellent and informal way to interact and engage with your team as well as reward and build relationships. Our current clients include Wooden Spoon, PKF, The Law Society, Space Retail and Spearing Waite.

“The key to success is getting the right combination of control and motivation throughout your organisation” Julian Richer

NICHE | 02

Beer Pubs The Horse & Trumpet, The Three Crowns, The Western, The Dog & Gun, The Wilmot Arms We can even help provide transport through Woods coaches.

For a great value experience drop me an email at: billy@steamin-billy.co.uk or call on 0116 3440064 wwwsteamin-billy.co.uk

The Team

Photography courtesy of: Tom Wren 07818 421 118 www.creativebywren.com Scott Choucino 07843 091 419 www.scotthoucino.com Chris Denner 07966 042 055 www.chrisdenner.com Lea Moulds 07725 995 899 www.digitalmagic.uk

Editor Jenny Cross 07815 899 574 jenny@crossproductions.co.uk

Mike Sewell 0116 251 2512 www.leicestermercury.co.uk

Published by Cross Productions Ltd www.nichemagazine.co.uk info@crossproductions.co.uk Tel: 0116 271 2573 Disclaimer – Niche Magazine and Cross Productions Ltd is fully protected by copyright; no part of this magazine may be reproduced or reprinted without the complete and expressed permission of the publisher.

The greatest care has been taken to ensure accuracy, however there can be no liability accepted by the publisher for errors and omissions. We can under no circumstance be held responsible for any materials, matter or photographical copy submitted for publication or not within the website or magazine. We cannot be held responsible or liable for any breaches of copyright from adverts, materials or photography or any other such material supplied by a third party. The views and opinions expressed within our publications are not necessarily those of the publisher or indeed Niche Magazine or any featured parties.

Distribution Media Matters Direct www.mediamattersdirect.co.uk Self Select Distribution www.selfselectdistribution.co.uk Niche App Download for free!

Social facebook.com/nichemagazineuk Twitter: @magazineniche

Marketing and Account Director Lee Parkin 07711 043 901 lee@crossproductions.co.uk

Operations Director Leanne Baker leanne@crossproductions.co.uk

Design Editor Susan Holmes

Feature Writer Kerry Smith

susan.holmes@crossproductions.co.uk

kerry@crossproductions.co.uk

Account Manager Sally Smith 07931 220 116

Account Manager Claire Willoughby 0116 271 2573

Writer Marie Mason-Hall Contributors The Miller Partnership, Glynis Wright, Mocha Marketing, City Communications, ER Recruitment, Torr Waterfield, SLM Builders, Leicester Racecourse, Beau Aesthetica, Curve, Leicester Riders, St Martins House, Dimblebee Catering Company, U Fit Studio, Soar Valley Press, Leicester Tigers, MME, Brooksure Insurance, Swipe & Tap, RDZ PR, Primo IT, Total Motion, Maiyango, Martin Dalby, Steamin’ Billy, Abel, Qdos, Matt Hampson Foundation NICHE | 05

Unparalleled performance, for all of life’s roads.

Bentayga.

Introducing the extraordinary SUV. Visit our Leicester Dealer. www.BentleyMotors.com or call 0116 319 39 69.

Bentayga fuel consumption – EU Drive Cycle in mpg (l/100 km)*: Urban 14.7 (19.2); Extra Urban 31.0 (9.1); Combined 22.1 (12.8). CO2 Emissions 292 g/km.

BENTLEY LEICESTER

*Fuel consumption figures subject to Type Approval. The name ‘Bentley’ and the ‘B’ in wings device are registered trademarks. © 2015 Bentley Motors Limited. Model shown: Bentayga.

06 | NICHE

A word from Jenny Boom! We’ve only skidded sideways at break-neck speed into another New Year, 2016.

And what a year we’ve left behind, we had a blast! So much was achieved and so many new contacts and friendships forged, the Niche team all firmly believe that business is all about partnerships and relationships. We are so lucky to be working with some of the very best around and can’t wait to see how these partnerships grow, develop and prosper this year.

Speaking of being the best around, we are already planning our 2nd awards ceremony for September after the amazing success of our inaugural event.

The official launch is to be held at Leicester Racecourse, also our headline sponsor for a second year, the date is 25th February and you can get yourself booked in at Eventbrite.co.uk. Nominate those you think deserve recognition and reward, the web site launch will be later this month.

Leicester Racecourse is host again to the annual Ladies Day fixture on July 2nd and guess who’s coming to town, Billy Ocean and Mica Paris – that’s who.

There will be a show stopping performance from top Take That tribute band even before the nags are lined up. This event promises to be a foodie heaven with over 15 street food vendors on-site to cater for the every taste, last year over 1000 Prosecco corks were popped – will this be challenged?

Niche have also teamed up with some top names in the sporting world to bring you a great selection of events in 2016. We are so pleased to give a bit of well earned and deserved respect to Leicester’s very own Boxing Binman, Rendall Munroe. Niche presents ‘A night with Rendall’ at the Cow & Plough, on 12th February when you can enjoy a 3 course meal and a chance to get up close and personal with Leicester’s modest medal winning hero – and it’s in support of 2 amazing local causes, Bodie Hodges Foundation and the Matt Hampson Foundation. In July we are so proud to give centre stage to the man that is England football legend and hero Gordon Banks. It’s fitting that the King Power stadium is the venue on the date, 50 years on from when England brought home the cup, the World Cup. So for your chance to ask that burning question to the man that blocked the goals and gave England their only World Cup victory, book your ticket at Eventbrite.co.uk.

There’s so much coming up and we’ve only just got over our festive furore, which saw me being awarded at the Network LE Dinner as ‘Networker of the Year’. And I am actually so pleased that the Niche trophy cupboard has had this addition, its all about networking! Soft Touch Arts are excited to welcome Niche Networking on 14th January, you’ll get the chance to see how Soft Touch make an impact on youth culture as well as meeting some really inspirational people. Guess where you can get tickets?

Now finally here it is, the New Year and new you piece! Our fitness, lifestyle and fat loss family at U Fit Studio have a test for you, we dare you to take it.

All you have to do is visit Ufitniche.co.uk – we’ll say no more. #FindYourNiche Jenny Cross, Editor Niche Magazine

NICHE | 07

January / February

Contents 11.

38.

Runway Rocks

Wedding Belles

40.

Wedding Special

68.

Fabulous Food & Drink

22.

Silver Arcade

28.

61.

Arinder Bhullar

Health & Beauty

68.

Insomnia

08 | NICHE

76.

132.

Property

Sport

90.

Abel

134.

76.

Leicester Racecourse

SLM Builders

Get ready for ladies day

92.

92.

Talk Business

Swipe and Tap

146.

Motoring

NICHE | 09

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

Jermaine wears: Black Bertoni Jacket £350 Bruno Saint Hilaire Navy Trouser £130 Goodwin Smith Black Shoes £90 White Dress Shirt All from Quentin Bond Sophia wears: Marlene Burgundy Wrap Dress £59, Betty Brown Faux Fur Stole £38, Betty Brown Unisa Wilma Grape Suede Shoe £110, Kiki & Fleur Gianni Conti Burgundy Clutch £99, Cellini

Jermaine wears: Bertoni Blue 3 Piece Suit £620, Quentin Bond Olymp Luxor Shirt £59, Quentin Bond Loakes Woodstock Burgundy Shoe £130, Fenwick

Sophia wears: Felicty Check Skirt £65, Betty Brown Shirt, Model’s own Sam Edelman Orella Black Shoe £130, Kiki & Fleur DKNY Beet Red Bryant Park Bag £199, Fenwick

Jeramine wears: Bertoni Tweed Jacket £275, Quentin Bond Polo and Scarf, Model’s own Bruno Saint Hilaire Black Jean £120, Quentin Bond Melrose Tan Shoe £125, Anthony Miles John Rocha Tan Satchel £150, Debenhams

Sophia Wears: Darcey Dogtooth Dress £95, Betty Brown Hoctl Soft Lack Shoe £105, Kiki & Fleur Ralph Lauren ‘Lauren’ Tate City Tote £280, Fenwick

Niche Magazine credits and gives special thanks to: Photography by Scott Choucino T 07843 091 419 W Scottchoucino.com

Anthony Miles T 0116 238 7090 W Anthony-miles.co.uk

Models: Jermaine Robinson & Sophia Houvarda

Kiki & Fleur 13 Francis Street, Leicester LE2 2BE T 0116 270 5260 W Kikiandlfeur.co.uk

Quentin Bond Granby Street, Leicester LE1 1DH T 0116 255 6939 Betty Brown Francis Street, Leicester LE2 2BD T 07713 746 010 W Betty-brown.com Fenwicks Market Street, Leicester LE1 6DE T 0116 255 3322 W Fenwick.co.uk Cellini Hotel Street, Leicester LE1 5AW T 0116 251 8612 W Cellinionline.co.uk NICHE | 14

Hair by Louise Matthews, Moda Greco 1-3 Guildhall Lane, Leicester LE1 5AD T 0116 262 9201 W Modagreco.co.uk Make up by Femi Highcross Street, Leicester LE1 4NN T 0116 253 2393 W Femi-health-beauty.co.uk Lee Parkin & Tania Hollingsworth Niche Magazine T 07711 043 901 W Nichemagazine.co.uk Images are owned and copyrighted by Scott Choucino for exclusive use with Niche Magazine.

PHOTOGRAPHY - IGNITE MEDIA

THE WEDDING DESTINATION 0116 266 4713 info@arinderbhullar.com 95 Belgrave Road, Leicester LE4 6A Shot on location in Santorini NICHE | 15

Runway Rocks

Help for Heroes, XTREME The Fragrance. £30 (£3 to the charity) This is the gift created by heroes for your hero!

A modern, yet timeless fragrance peppered with hot spice and rugged smoky woods.

August Bluetooth Wireless Headphones EP650 From £22.25 These sleek ultra-light headphones sound as good as they look. www.idafodil.co.uk

Valentines For Him The Macallan Rare Cask RRP £200 Aged exclusively in Sherry Oak cask. www.whiskyshop.com/macallan-rare-cask www.themacallan.com

August Bluetooth Stereo Speakers MS515 £64.45 Nifty prism-like portable pair of 5 watt speaker pack www.idaffodil.co.uk

U Star Novels £24.95 Give you and your partner leading roles in these personalised naughty novels. www.ustarnovels.co.uk/ personalised-romance-novels

The Ardmore Port Wood £49.99 Ruby gold in colour this single malt is full of spiced fruits with a subtle smoky finish. www.thewhiskyexchange.com. www.ardmorewhisky.com

Starskin Mask £8.50 Revitalise and hydrate with Leading Man sheet mask used by Dougie Poynter LAUNCHES LEADING MAN SHEET MASKS STARSKIN® www.harveynichols.com

Discover Men’s Grooming with STARSKIN®’s Leading Man™ Sheet Mask – this second skin BioCellulose hydrating mask delivers a powerful serum complex to leave skin refined, energized and refreshed.

Pall Mall Barbers Luxury shave collection £22.50 Scrub, Shave Cream and Post-Shave Balm with a scent of Sandalwood & Clove. www.pallmallbarbers.com

During the cold winter season, the weather can be very harsh on skin, Monogrammed fine English socks £20.00 making it dry and dull - counter act UK men’s sizes 6 to 15. Nine colours available. the weather’s effects by energizing Madehydrating with soft premium yarn. Personalised with and intensely your skin with a up singleto useseven of STARSKIN®’s initials or numbers.

Leading Man™ sheet mask.

STARSKIN® delivers results in just 20 minutes – so even those with an endlessly busy schedule can afford to invest in the Leading Man™ Sheet Mask.

NICHE | 19

Clutch bags and Cashmere ‘Be bold, be brave, be beautiful!’ That’s what fashion designer, Janet Carlisle tells our readers. She explains the importance of cashmere and clutch bags this season.

The founder and designer of Mimi & Thomas believes in creating pieces that will be the finishing touch to any outfit and your go to item which will never fail you.

The popular cashmere multi-way shawl is perfect going into spring.

With discrete buttons it can be worn as a cardigan, bolero, poncho, wrap, snood or chunky scarf carrying your look from day to night. Wear as a poncho for the morning school run or wrap around your shoulders at an evening do!

vintage inspired satin minaudière, glitzy diamanté pieces for more formal occasions, to effortlessly chic envelope clutches for a cocktail night.

“You don’t have to go with the trends; it’s about feeling confident in yourself. Accessorising is fun! Try colour blocking on a little black dress and bring out different textures. Try a soft grained leather clutch with a lace ensemble, a beaded boxy clutch with a lux satin maxi dress or pick a neutral metallic piece to go with the colour of your shoes or jewellery.”

Janet sources directly from a cashmere manufacturer in Nepal making these luxurious high cashmere content shawls affordable. Tissue wrapped in a beautiful presentation box handmade in Nepal, often sprinkled with love hearts and free samples inside, these make for an unrivalled Valentines and Mother’s day gift.

A Mimi & Thomas bag is every girl’s best friend. Each glamorous clutch comes packaged in its branded satin dust bag.

Mimi & Thomas clutch bag designs are timeless and classy. Choose from

Find the perfect accessory. www.mimi&thomas.co.uk

Mimi & Thomas is also excited to introduce the new tote bags line and expansion on the colour range in their cashmere shawls.

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

20 | NICHE

Runway Rocks

Healthy Scalp, Healthy Hair

Asian bridal trends

With the party season over...

The hair gurus at Moda Greco share some handy hints and tips .

Treat your scalp as an extension of your face! Remove the product build-up by exfoliating your scalp using Kerastase Chronologiste Revitalising Exfoliating Care.

Asian bridal trends Within the high-class Asian couture fashion industry, Arinder Bhullar has formed a recognized brand named 2010’s Best Wedding Designer at the International Asian Fashion Awards. She highlights this year’s bridal trends.

We are half way through winter, so what’s next? Cinched waisted dresses, tweeds, plaids, leather, the demure polo neck and furs are my favourites.

Colour Care! Originating from the USA, Olaplex has been described as the ‘Holy Grail’ of colour treatments and has a celebrity following including Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Lopez and Gwyneth Paltrow! It works by repairing bonds within the hair shaft, known as disulphide bonds. These are broken down during the colouring process.

Olaplex revitalises the look and colour of your hair from just £15.

Vintage is a theme so often used these days and why shouldn’t it be? From cars to films to fashion, nothing beats a classic and there is no difference when it comes to a wedding. Traditional reds and golds will never cease to impress and wow your guests as you celebrate draped in these fantastically rich colours.

Hair Rehab! Big blow-dries, straightening, curling and back combing during the festive party season all take a toll on your hair.

Pamper it in the New Year and treat yourself to a Kerastase Fusio-Dose Hair Ritual. These can be tailored to your needs so speak to our stylists for more information.

The varying tones of gold have been seen all over the catwalk lately and can be updated from the vintage theme by mixing with any other shade from emerald green to creamy white to create a modern Prince and Princess ensemble .

Heavy embroidery glams-up any kind of bridal wear. Luxurious thick fabrics and detailing paired with a long train makes for a timehonoured statement look that requires minimal effort. Make-up and hair can be kept simple while you let the garments do the talking.

Stop Split Ends! Products aimed at tackling split ends will cosmetically mask the problem; they can’t and won’t fix it! The only real way of preventing the split from travelling up the hair is to have them cut; only a small trim is needed. This will keep your hair looking and feeling healthier and ensure your style keeps its shape and balance.

Of all the bold contemporary flairs that fashion has seen lately, bursts of colour and adventurous schemes are not to everyone’s taste. Captivate the crowd like a mystical enchantress in feminine, light airy fabrics of creams, whites and pastel shades. Add to this with floral accents for an ultra-modern ethereal feel.

See Arinder’s collections online.

www.modagreco.co.uk 0116 262 9201

www.arinderbhullar.com 0116 266 4713

Don’t put away those faux fur stoles yet, these appeared on every runway show and as we know the season is yet to get colder we need as much warmth as possible. Wear over a matching knit with a skirt or even over your trouser suit.

The polo neck has become a wardrobe essential easy casual under a denim/leather jacket, smart work wear teamed with a pencil skirt or under a dress. If you are busty, throw on a long jewellery piece or scarf over the top to break it up.

Leather is everywhere and for everyone, it’s just getting it right.

If you are slim go for a leather trouser. If these are not for you there are some amazing leather and faux leather skirts out there, from knife pleated over the knee to aline shapes above the knee, whichever your choice team with 40den black tights and a pair of knee high boots.

Be pretty in plaid (or Princess of Wales check), a classic trend always but has hit the runways big this season. Wear it out in coats, to work in knee length dresses, two-piece suits, pencil and the 60’s mod mini skirts and for the weekend that everyday casual shirt under your leather or parker.

Betty Brown Boutique info@betty-brown.com NICHE | 21

Silver Arcade

22 | NICHE

Silver arcade

Crystal HAIR & BEAUTY SALON & TANNING LOUNGE

Local Craft beer Available - Free Licence Organic tea & coffee - eat in or takeaway deli foods - fine cheese & meats - antipasti & olives - oils & vinegars - chutneys, jams & honeys yummy pastries, cakes & other tasty delights

SILVER ARCADE - 2ND FLOOR Look hot with our sunbeds, automated spray tan, fabulous weaves, and clip-in hair extensions.

0116 251 3556 www.crystalhairandbeauty.co.uk 7 Silver Arcade, Silver Street, Leicester LE1 5ET

www.deliflavour.co.uk

0116 251 7786 FACEBOOK DELI FLAVOUR TWITTER: @DELIFLAVOUR

FREE WIFI AVAILABLE

Discover the award winning Kelsey Rose bridesmaid collection at our Leicester Boutique

FIRST FLOOR, SILVER ARCADE, LEICESTER

www.divineladieswear.co.uk NICHE | 23

Leicester’s

Silver Arcade Silver Arcade is a magnificent building sitting at the heart of the city’s retail centre, only 50 metres from the entrance to the multi-million pound Highcross Development.

Located at the intersection of Silver Street, Eastgates and High Street, it sits at the entrance of The Lanes, a distinct unique quarter of the city centre. With a further entrance to Cank Street, Silver Arcade forms a natural link through to Leicester’s famous open Market and the heart by St Martins shopping Centre.

Built in the 19th century by local architect Amos Hall, it opened for business in 1899, originally housing shops, offices and showrooms.

Hall’s vision produced a building that was original, innovative and second to none. It is one of only two arcades in the UK that rise through four storeys.

The building has recently undergone a £3 million full refurbishment. Contemporary features have been skilfully blended with the original grand Victorian architecture - delivering a spacious, light filled retail environment.

Units are immediately available from £150 per week plus VAT. For more information on Availability contact letting agents Andrew & Ashwell on 0116 254 1220.

24 | NICHE

Silver arcade

City Laser & Skin Clinic

Your Silver Lining in the Silver Arcade

Achieving healthy, glowing skin, can be a battle for many men and women. The comprehensive range of treatments provided by City Laser & Skin Clinic brings you a step closer to the skin you’ve always dreamed of.

Located on the second floor of the Silver Arcade in Leicester city centre, City Laser & Skin Clinic offers something much more than the average skin clinic or beauty salon. Because their treatments are bespoke to each patient’s needs, their professional but personable staff really take the time to listen and understand the reasons for visiting the clinic, and what is hoped to achieve from the treatment. It’s this personal touch and extra level of care that really sets them apart from other clinics.

This, coupled with their investment in the latest technology means you can achieve the best possible results, from some of the most leading-edge treatments that all the beauty columnists are talking about.

Laser Hair Removal is one of their specialisms, and many of their female clients suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) which can cause excessive hair growth. For PCOS sufferers, having this

treatment can be completely life changing. City Laser & Skin Clinic recognise the courage it takes just to make the initial appointment, they understand how important it is to support their patients through every step, and pride themselves on their experienced, yet gentle approach. Their flexible payment plans mean that this treatment is accessible to everyone, and the results are truly outstanding.

Their treatments support skin conditions such as acne scarring and fine lines and wrinkles to thread veins and sun damage, it’s clear they offer much more than Laser Hair Removal. Their signature facials are custom-made to suit your needs, completely personalised, just for you.

City Laser & Skin Clinic have got the balance just right between their highly sought after medical treatments and their more luxurious treatments that will leave you feeling pampered and de-stressed.

They can take care of all skin types and their treatments are suitable for all ages, meaning they really can help everyone.

Why not make 2016 your year of achieving amazing skin, through a signature facial peel, laser hair removal or a combination of their many treatments listed on their website www.citylaserskin.co.uk.

Consultations are free of charge, call them today on 0116 242 5299.

NICHE | 25

Happy Plugs Lightning Sync Cable £24.99 Showcased in a Valentines -ready heart shape www.happyplugs.com

Beauty Blender £16 The world’s first edgeless, high definition make-up applicator comes in a romantic red this Valentine’s Day www.beautyblender.co.uk

Valentines For Her

Jane Iredale Forever Red Just Kissed Lip and Cheek Stain £22 Non-drying, long lasting stain that adjusts to the wearers own chemistry for an irresistible custom shade www.janeiredale.co.uk

Joan Collins Timeless Beauty I AM WOMAN Fragrance £50 50ml & £15 12ml An elegant oriental scent with lasting power www.joancollinsbeauty.com

26 | NICHE

Lumie Bodyclock £160 Improves mood, energy, productivity and quality of sleep with the alarm clock that mimics sunrise www.lumie.com

Pana Chocolate Gift Pack £13.90 Organic, handmade chocolate gift packs perfect for sharing sweet nothings www.panachocolate.com

Bill’s Red Velvet Cupcake Truffles £11.95 A sumptuous sophisticated chocolate treat www.bills-shop.co.uk

Mionetto Prosecco £9 For those romantic nights in Available from Sainsbury’s, budgens, Bargain Booze, Cost Cutter and Londis

August Bluetooth Wireless Headphones EP636 From £22.25 These sleek ultra-light headphones sound as good as they look www.idafodil.co.uk

Rock and Ruddle £30 large £20 handbag-sized Treat your hair to some TLC with personalised natural boar bristle hair brushes www.rockandruddle.co.uk

NICHE | 27

Health & Beauty

How to find a Good Personal Trainer

WWW.UFITNICHE.CO.UK NICHE | 34

Health & Beauty

Here we go again, it’s January and it’s time to get back on the wagon. Haven’t we been here before?

January fitness resolutions have a hint of déjà vu about them and they always seem to end the same way.

You start off well, you diet and you get on the gym membership. You show up and you wade through the crowds to get your workout done, and you look for progress. The post-Christmas bulge starts to reduce a bit but nowhere near as much as you had hoped. Then spring comes, and the pressure starts to build. Summer is only round the corner and you still have a long way to go to your original goal. The year passes by and you plateau feeling guilty, powerless and a failure.

This may sound a bit doom and gloom, but I bet a lot of people reading this can identify with this cycle. If you can’t then that’s great, but for now I’m talking to the people for whom this is all but too familiar. Why do you think this happens? Is it a lack of motivation? I don’t think so. If that was the case, then you wouldn’t have started in the first place. I think that for the vast majority of people it is the lack of education around fitness and health. You can put all the effort in the world in, but if you’re doing the wrong thing then your effort will never show.

What you need is to identify your limiting factor, the one thing (or combination of things) that is slowing your progress. There are a number of areas that can hold someone back from making a change, but luckily for you they are all here.

We at U Fit Studio can identify your limiting factor by asking you a series of questions to find out what’s holding you back. It could be any one (or even all) of these things. ◆ Physical limitation ◆ Stress ◆ Nutritional knowledge ◆ Exercise knowledge ◆ Readiness to change ◆ Social support When lacking, these 5 key areas are what we have identified as being the reason that people don’t make the change.

1

Physical limitation It is always recommended that you should see a functional medicine doctor before starting a weightloss programme to see if there is an underlying condition that could be preventing losing weight. Conditions such as diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, deficiencies or intolerances can negatively affect any weightloss. We can refer Doctors to you if your own won’t see you. In addition, we can run additional lifestyle tests that may be hindering your progress.

2

Stress Stress is more of a problem now than ever before, and the worst thing is that people think that being stressed is normal. It’s not! Severe stress makes fat loss

almost impossible, even if the diet and exercise plan is perfect. One client that we had can lose 4lbs in one fortnight and gain 2lbs in the next, just because of how they’re feeling! We work on fixing stress at the source; we also help by improving our clients ability to deal with stressful situations and working with them to get their body better at coping too.

3

Nutritional knowledge Everyone knows what healthy food is and how to prepare it to make it interesting, right? Wrong, most people, particularly those who need to lose weight know nothing about food. Following a cookie cutter plan will not help you in 20 years, what is needed is a programme educating people on how to cook and prepare healthy food themselves.

4

Exercise knowledge You just need to get active and you’ll lose weight, right? Well sort of. Something is always better than nothing, but there are some methods of exercise which are vastly better than others for consistent long term fat loss. Learning how to train your body rather than working out is critical for long term success.

5

Readiness to change This is the most overlooked factor, if you want a different body you are going to have to be ready to change who you are now. This may not mean upheaving your entire life, but you are going to have to change something. Many people give up before they’ve even started because they aren’t prepared to make the necessary changes to their lives. Our job is to make the most effective changes with the least effect on your life.

That’s the skill in coaching. So if you want to change but the necessary interventions seem too daunting then it’s time to come to us.

6

Social support Social support is exactly what it sounds like, and people don’t make life changing decisions without getting their close circle on board. Our test will let you know if this is a weak point for you, and if you need to make extra effort to get support where you need it.

Go online to www.ufitniche.co.uk to take our free lifestyle test and find out your limiting factor. Then you need to make it your mission to work on your flaws and invest in your progress.

99% of the population is dissatisfied with the results they get from their current diet, personal trainer or gym.

These same people often feel that they have no choice but carry on doing the things they’re doing though, even when they don’t see any results. Why is this year going to be different? The truth is, it won’t be unless you make it so. This free lifestyle test your about to embark on reveals one of the most unique approaches ever published on how to improve your health and get in to the best shape of your life, for life.

NICHE | 35

Aesthetica Happy New Year, Happy New You?

How we feel about the way we look can have a big impact on our daily lives, is 2016 the time to take control and make the changes you’ve been thinking about?

If you’ve never visited a cosmetic surgery clinic before, Beau Aesthetica on Allandale Road would be the right place to start. A welcoming and calming atmosphere, together with highly trained and experienced staff mean you’ll instantly know you’re in safe hands. Their treatment list is extensive, with one of their most popular treatments being Liposelection by Vaser, which uses ultrasound waves to break down fat cells.

Offering a fast recovery time, Liposelection by Vaser is a safe alternative for removing stubborn fat deposits, reshaping your body without the need for a general anaesthetic. Certain body types are 30 | NICHE

predisposed to storing fat in different areas that even a demanding diet and exercise plan is unable to change. VASER Lipo can be used on almost any part of your body, including smaller areas like ankles, necks and chins, making it an easy way to get the body you desire.

The VASER Lipo treatment has many advantages, including tightening of the skin, immediate, visible results, and the ability to remove a significant amount of fat. With much less bruising than traditional liposuction and only a slight risk of bleeding, this safe and effective treatment could be the exact procedure you’re looking for. The before and after

photographs on their website speak for themselves, with a mixture of both men and women, it is easy to see why this treatment is so popular.

Members of the British Association of Body Sculpting, Beau Aesthetica’s fully qualified, experienced doctors have a genuine passion for cosmetic work that results in an enviable reputation for client satisfaction.

Another popular treatment is Dermal Skin Fillers. Used to treat deep lines and wrinkles on the face, including lines from nose to mouth, mouth to chin, and lines above the upper lip and forehead, this treatment is also used in the lips and cheeks for volume and definition, and on

Health & Beauty

Very fine lines and the back of the hands to make veins look less prominent. These anti-ageing facial fillers offer a nonsurgical way to smooth out skin and add lost volume to the face.

As we age, our skin loses collagen, the structural protein in our skin that holds our body together. Very fine lines and wrinkles begin to deepen and are made worse by sun exposure, smoking and air pollution.

A dermal skin filler treatment is non-invasive, meaning you can resume normal daily activities straight away, the results can be long lasting depending on the type of filler used, and can last between six months to two years. Beau Aesthetica recommend this treatment to patients wanting to achieve a softer, more youthful look to their face.

So what happens during a dermal skin filler treatment? After a numbing cream is applied to the area due to be treated, an ultrafine needle is used to inject a small amount of dermal filler in to the face. Depending on the area, the

wrinkles begin to deepen and are made worse by sun exposure, smoking and air pollution. filler is used to either smooth lines and wrinkles or add volume and give a fuller look. This treatment is only carried out by fully qualified and experienced doctors. There might be a small amount of swelling which will quickly fade and allow you to enjoy your new, youthful appearance.

Dermal Skin Fillers can often be used in conjunction with Muscle Relaxing Injection treatments, often known as ‘Botox’. This treatment is ideal for the temporary improvement of expression lines and wrinkles and can also be used for facial re-shaping, for example, lifting the eyebrow or correcting asymmetrical facial features.

Like skin fillers, a very fine needle is used, this time to inject the muscle relaxant into a specific muscle group, this causes a reduction in the muscle movement, reducing the appearance of the lines and wrinkles, whilst also preventing further lines and wrinkles to form. Patients experience minimal discomfort with great results, from a very safe product.

Beau Aesthetica’s clinic boasts the most up to date equipment in Europe, this allows the very best standard of care for the patient from their highly trained staff. Their goal is to make their patients look and feel amazing by recommending the best and most appropriate treatment to fit their needs and improve body image.

If you would like to know more about Beau Aesthetica’s extensive range of cosmetic treatments and how they can make you more body confident, call them today. www.beauaesthetica.com 0116 270 9141

NICHE | 31

The health and wellbeing

of your employees

Absenteeism is a worry when it is costing a company money, we discuss with Alison Simpson, Accounts Director Of Vitality by MME why employers should be investing in the health and wellbeing of their staff There are many ways in which businesses manage their workers to get the best from them and having private health insurance has proven to be one of them. Alison explains: “Our products increase job satisfaction and engagement because they are being cared for by their company.”

The NHS caters for a UK population of 53.9 million and employs more than 1.3 million (NHS.uk). Alison says: “It’s all about having a private medical policy that allows staff to beat NHS waiting times and see a consultant in weeks rather than months so they can return to work quicker from illness, which in turn, saves firms money.”

According to Britain’s Healthiest Company (HBC), British companies are losing an average of 23.5 days

of productive time per employee each year as staff take time off sick and underperform in the office as a result of ill-health costing firms £57 billion a year.

Alison suggests that their employee’s happiness and health will increase with a private health policy: “They are happy at work because they know their company is looking after them. This also benefits the business because they get more out of their employees.”

While other private health insurers simply offer financial security, Vitality by MME also reward you by offering various incentives for a greater quality of life. “As well as protecting you and your employees when things go wrong, we help you lead a healthier life, and reward you when you do.”

When your employees make the effort to learn about their own health and take steps to improve it, they will be motivated with exclusive savings on trainers, bikes and days out and rewarded with cinema tickets, discounted British Airways flights and Eurostar travel, cash back when they take part in their Stop Smoking Scheme and that’s just to name a few!

Having healthy happy employees doesn’t need to cost the earth.

Considering the cost of your policy they do their best to make negotiations to suit your budget and with the extra expense of auto enrolment, they will look at reducing the cost of your Private Medical Premiums to compensate. www.vitalitybymme.co.uk 0800 999 2205

www.vitalitybymme.co.uk 0800 999 2205 32 | NICHE

Health & Beauty

What is Cranio-Sacral Therapy Cranio-Sacral Therapy (also known as CST) is a hands on method of whole body evaluation and treatment that can have a positive impact on every system of the body. It is safe, exceptionally gentle, non-invasive and extremely powerful.

A profound healing process that can release deeply held patterns of emotional or physical dysfunction.

These patterns accumulate throughout life as a result of injury, illness and personal circumstances.

CST works on a physical and psychological level because it deals with the whole person and facilitates the body’s natural power of selfhealing. It is a form of silent psychotherapy that allows the person to change and let go from the inside. Used alone or alongside conventional medicine, it has proven clinically effective in facilitating the body’s ability to heal itself.

CST was recognised over a 100 years ago through the work and research of an American osteopath, Dr William Sutherland. He discovered that every cell in the body expresses its own rhythmic motion, that the cranial (skull) bones have their own intrinsic movement and that the cerebral

spinal fluid that serves to cushion and support the brain and spine also has its own rhythmic motion.

This is know as cranio-sacral motion or the ‘breath of life’ and is expressed throughout the whole body. He went on to demonstrate that these rhythms and movements are linked to mental, physical and emotional health.

Everyday physical knocks, bumps, trauma, shock and emotional stress cause the body’s tissues and membranes to contract and tighten up, manifesting in further tensions and restrictions in the body.

Eventually this prevents organs and the body’s systems functioning at an optimum level.

Conditions that can be helped include stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, shock, lack of energy, head injury, neck pain and injuries, back complaints, birth trauma to mother and child, RSI, digestive problems, menstrual disorders, autism, dyslexia and cerebral palsy, to name but a few.

It is so safe and gentle that it is suitable for every age, new-born babies to the elderly. Using a light gentle touch, treatment is given with the client fully clothed. Clients usually express feelings of profound deep relaxation on all levels. Other sensations that might be felt include tingling, pulsing and ebb and flowing movements.

More information available at: www.craniosacral.co.uk Priti Coles is a fully qualified registered cranio-sacral practitioner, practicing in Leicester. www.priticoles.co.uk 07795 361 288 NICHE | 33

NEW LOCATION

8 Slater Street Industrial Estate Leicester LE3 5AS

07828 818 261 www.stu-niquefitness.co.uk

Get the balance right with

Prep Perfect’s

perfectly prepped meals 07564 952 014

www.prepperfect.co.uk Instagram prep._perfect Facebook Prep Perfect Twitter prepperfect1 34 | NICHE

Health & Beauty

Healthy Eating Made Easy

Is employee absence costing your business

A Cleanse after Christmas

“There’s a niche here!” - That’s what Founder and Partner of Prep Perfect thought when she had her pioneering business idea.

A survey of 32,538 workers found that 36% of UK employees have chronic conditions influencing their lifestyle choices (BHC). According to CBI, the most common causes of long term sickness: nonwork related stress / anxiety / depression – 61% non-manual and 47 % manual, cancer – 41%, Musculoskeletal – 31%, work related stress / anxiety / depression – 29%, chronic back pain – 22%.

Many of us have over-indulged during the Christmas period and you may be experiencing that all too familiar bloated feeling leaving you sluggish and lethargic. Colon Hydrotherapy helps improve your energy levels so you feel less bloated and ready to begin the New Year on a healthier footing.

The light bulb moment came to Jodie Williams after Michelin experienced chef and close friend, Joe Nolan, posted photos of tasty meals he had prepared for his dieting partner’s lunches at work.

“Having worked within the fitness industry for numerous years and training regularly I was always on some kind of personal eating plan.

But being a busy working mum and cooking for family, I was left with little time and motivation to prep my own meals,” Jodie said.

Jodie and Joe created Prep Perfect along with partners Charlotte and Aaron. Menus are rustled up using Joe’s knowledge and flare ensuring that the meals are not standard dietary ‘rabbit food.’ The tasty dishes pass through Prep Perfect’s nutritionist who breaks down the menu giving the full nutritional content and are then delivered to your door. The pair have worked with huge names such as Leicester City Football Club.

Many drugs have been cut from NHS budgets, but still issued by private consultants. The Cancer Drugs Fund no longer pay for 17 medicines used in 23 cancer treatments (PharmaceuticalJournal. com). Many of these causes for absence can be dealt with through private medical contacts associated with Vitality by MME. Health insurance with MME can reduce absenteeism and build a healthy happy team for your business. Encouraging employees to understand their health with services of companies who MME work directly with, individuals gain points towards well-being incentives and leisure activities such as cinema tickets and travel discounts. This means staff members earn inducements whilst feeling safe and secure in the knowledge that their company is taking care of them if they should fall ill.

Colon Hydrotherapy actually derives from an ancient Egyptian practice and was subsequently adopted by the Ancient Greeks, who both recognised the health benefits of this natural treatment.

Colon Hydrotherapy (or Colonic Irrigation) offers a natural way to cleanse and detoxify your body, improve digestive health and is just one of the many treatments we offer at Beau Aesthetica, combining advanced technology with sound, professional advice.

“Most people are on a diet of some sort but are they eating the right foods? Many people just slash calories or carbohydrates but that’s the opposite of what you should do. It’s all about consistency and balance.”

Get the balance right with Prep Perfect’s perfectly prepped meals.

Ensure the financial security of your business by insuring the health of your employees now.

We endeavour to create a calm, welcoming environment for our clients looked after by our discreet and experienced therapists. This is what keeps our clients returning for many future treatments. They tell us it’s our attention to the small details that keep us unique, from providing fresh flowers and candles and a choice of CD’s and DVD’s.

We’re always looking at ways to improve the experience so they leave us feeling rebalanced, rejuvenated and re-energised. If you would like to know more about Colon Hydrotherapy or any of the other treatments that we offer, please call us today.

www.prepperfect.co.uk 07564 952 014

www.vitalitybymme.co.uk 0116 231 2905

www.beauaesthetica.com 0116 270 9141

www.vitalitybymme.co.uk 0800 999 2205 NICHE | 35

ALWAYS LOOK AFTER

NUMBER TWO! DISCOVER THE SECRETS OF ADVANCED COLONIC HYDROTHERAPY, PERFECT BOWEL MOVEMENTS AND DIGESTIVE HEALTH Feeling of wellbeing improved by 92% Headaches & anxiety reduced by 60% Feeling of depression reduced by 86% Quality of sleep improved by 92% Skin improved by 60% Flatulence reduced by 50%

Joint & muscle pain reduced by 83%

Indigestion reduced by 90%

Menstrual comfort increased by 100%

Constipation relieved by 93%

44 HIGH STREET, ENDERBY, LEICESTER, LE19 4AG 0116 029 844 / 07815 835449 WWW.ETERNALBEING.CO.UK BOOKINGS@ETERNALBEING.CO.UK

36 | NICHE

NICHE 33

Health & Beauty

At Natalia Aesthetics Clinic we are fully committed to natural looking aesthetic results. Advances in techniques along with modern products can improve and enrich your appearance so you look fresher and years younger.

Advanced Face & Body Treatments 6 Anti-Wrinkle Injections 6 Dermal Fillers 6 Vampires Face Lift – PRP 6 Fractora™ Collagen Wave 6 Forma™ Radio Frequency Skin Tightening 6 Lumecca™ IPL Photo Rejuvenation

Also

6 Diolaze™

3rd generation Permanent Hair Removal 6 BodyFX™ Body Sculpting for removal of stubborn fat 6 Vaser® Lipo

Dr Natalia Hancock

07910 540 993 6 natalia@natalia-aesthetics.co.uk 6 www.natalia-aesthetics.co.uk Facebook – Natalia Aesthetics Clinic

Absolutley amazing skin Winter is definitely here and I’m sure most of us have the heating on full. This, coupled with the cold air outside can really play havoc with your skin, leaving it looking dry and dull.

Winter is definitely here and I’m sure most of us have the heating on full. This, coupled with the cold air outside can really play havoc with your skin, leaving it looking dry and dull. Tania came to see me recently to try an energising green facial peel, here’s what she thought.

“Firstly, the clinic looks amazing! I felt very looked after from start to finish and Dimple fully explained the treatment to me so I knew exactly what to expect. Her knowledge about the treatment was really impressive and put me completely at ease.

“The treatment lasted for around 45 minutes, I knew it would be worth it and was excited to see how my skin would look at the end.

I was sent home with a complete aftercare pack of face washes, cream and toner and around three

days later my skin started to peel off leaving absolutely amazing skin underneath! So many family and friends have commented on how fresh my skin looks, I didn’t realise how soft and glowing it would be.

“The aftercare was fantastic, Dimple called me a few times to check how I was getting on, I really felt looked after and would definitely have it done again. From start to finish, the service and support I had was brilliant!”

City Laser & Skin Clinic 0116 242 5299 www.citylaserskin.co.uk

www.vitalitybymme.co.uk 0800 999 2205 NICHE | 37

What

Wedding Day

Finding a wedding reception venue that ticks all the boxes and is proud to offer something different and unique is quite a challenge.

We believe Hotel Maiyango, who have been holding the hands of happy couples through their wedding planning journey for many years is the venue that provides an unforgettable setting and will keep guests talking about your special day for years to come.

Hotel Maiyango’s aim is always to create a bespoke wedding reception tailored perfectly to each couple’s individual requirements. This makes Maiyango the ideal choice for those who are searching for a wedding venue that allows them to reflect their personality from start to finish.

The hotel is located in the heart of Leicester city centre overlooking 38 | NICHE

dreams are made of

the fantastic Jubilee Square and a stone’s throw away from Leicester Cathedral and the Guildhall, two of Leicester’s most sought after wedding ceremony venues. All these venues work harmoniously together to help create the impressive surroundings that couples are searching for.

Catering for up to 80 guests for a sit down wedding breakfast and up to 120 across the top floor for an evening party, the hotel provides a unique space that can accommodate parties looking for a contemporary cool venue. One of the spaces, ‘The Glass Bar’, with floor to ceiling windows and brilliant outdoor terrace, has outstanding views of the city skyline whilst overlooking the hustle and bustle of the new Jubilee Square public realm.

The restaurant is ideal for more intimate wedding breakfasts of between 10 and 40 guests. The atmospheric setting provides that signature warm, rich feel Maiyango does so well and which is

guaranteed to make everyone feel at ease.

Recognising how important fabulous food and drink are to any wedding reception, Maiyango’s Award Winning Head Chef, Salvatore Tassari, proves his passion for offering a truly unique dining experience by creating a tailormade wedding breakfast menu that reflect the personalities of the couple. All food and drink is naturally fully adaptable for guests with specific allergies and dietary requirements.

The 4 star hotel has fourteen double bedrooms and so an ideal size for couples wanting to hire out the hotel exclusively - meaning you and your guests will be able to take over the hotel in its entirety and enjoy the full perks of having your own private space with all your closest friends and family close by.

We all know wedding days are about making memories but it’s the attention to detail that turns

Wedding Belles

a memory into an unforgettable experience to savour for years to come and Maiyango’s experienced team truly understand what it takes to create the perfect big day. To assist with the planning process, you have one dedicated contact throughout and regular meetings along the way to ensure everything is as it should be. Maiyango also have a fantastic list of trusted contacts and partners as well as all the finishing touches such as candelabras, chair covers and table decorations to hire, along with their popular ‘Moroccan Theme’ decorations, as featured in Cosmopolitan Bride Magazine.

The Maiyango wedding team, headed up by Rebecca Humphreys, really care about making sure that each couple’s wedding day is everything they imagined it would be. Rebecca says, “We are a small team, and work closely together to ensure there is seamless planning

and execution of events from start to finish. Every reception we do is unique and being a part of the special day is so rewarding! We like to get to know our couples and encourage them to inject their own personality into the planning.”

“Over the years we have been so lucky to see traditional romantics, beautiful proposals and unforgettable receptions. We can’t wait for more of the same this year and help couples really put their mark on their special day!”

If you’re planning a wedding and looking for the perfect venue, why not take a tour of Maiyango. Give Rebecca and her team a call on 0116 251 8898 and arrange to go and have a look around. We know you will not be disappointed!

www.maiyango.com 0116 251 8898

NICHE | 39

WEDDINGS N I C H E

Watters bridesmaid dresses from Divine Boutique Flowers by Eve Lily Hair and Make-up by Donovan Goode Hair & Beauty 40 | NICHE NICHE | 56

Wilvorst suit from Christopher Scotney Hirewear Store Bridal gown from Brides of Bond Street Hair and Make-up by Donovan Goode Hair & Beauty

Cakes by Helen Alborn Cakes

NICHE | 41

Wilvorst suit from Christopher Scotney Hirewear Store Bridal gown from Brides of Bond Street Bridal bouquet by Eve Lily Condici mother of the bride outfit and hat from Jeanne of Oadby Hair and Make-up by Donovan Goode Hair & Beauty

Flowers by Eve Lily

Styling by Eve Lily

Condici mother of the bride outfit and hat from Jeanne of Oadby Bridal gown from Brides of Bond Street Wilvorst suit from Christopher Scotney Hirewear Store Watters bridesmaid dresses from Divine Boutique Jewellery from Wilkinson Goldsmiths Hair and Make-up by Donovan Goode Hair & Beauty NICHE | 43

Niche Magazine credits and gives special thanks to: Creative Direction by Nicola Mason from Eve Lily Photography by Chris Denner from Your Perfect Day Models: Esther Mee, David Ilnicki, Shola Marie, Reanna Marie & Julie Langton.

Wedding Dress from Brides of Bond Street 32 Silver Street, City Centre, Leicester, LE1 5ET 0116 251 7898 www.bridesofbondstreet.com Suit from Christopher Scotney 128 - 132 London Road, Leicester, LE2 1EB 0116 254 3957 www.christopherscotney.co.uk Bridesmaid dresses from Divine Boutique First Floor, Silver Arcade, Leicester, LE1 5FA 0116 251 6924 www.divineladieswear.co.uk Mother of the bride outfit from Jeanne of Oadby 4 - 6 Chapel Street, Oadby, Leicester, LE2 5AD 0116 271 4430 www.jeanneofoadby.co.uk Hair and Make-up by Donovan Goode Hair & Beauty 29 Lutterworth Road, Blaby, Leicester, LE8 4DW 0116 277 6666 www.donovangoode.co.uk Styling from Eve Lily 07808 736 281 www.evelily.co.uk

Watters bridesmaid dresses from Divine Boutique Wilvorst suit from Christopher Scotney Hirewear Store Bridal gown from Brides of Bond Street Bouquet by Eve Lily Hair and Make-up by Donovan Goode Hair & Beauty

Cake from Helen Alborn Cakes 07506 344 376 www.helenalborncakes.co.uk Jewellery from Wilkinson Goldsmiths 4 Allandale Road, Leicester, LE2 2DA 0116 270 5375 www.wilkinsongoldsmiths.co.uk Venue City Rooms Hotel Street, Leicester, LE1 5AW 0116 251 5337 www.thecityrooms.co.uk Images are owned and copywriter

by Your Perfect Day for exclusive use with Niche Magazine.

44 | NICHE

Cupcake by Helen Alborn Cakes

Table dressing by Eve Lily

NICHE | 45

Beautiful Bridesmaids

Rustic Ballroom Chic

Divine boutique is a gorgeous little bridesmaid and evening dress store with a fantastic array of frocks and gowns!

What a stunning location for a chic, natural, rustic influenced photo shoot. The City Rooms in Leicester was the hand-picked location for our styled shoot, having the most stunning ballroom it really is a perfect wedding location.

Rosie Holmes, Co-Founder, said: “We stock a beautiful selection of bridesmaid dresses to suit all budgets and colour schemes from the versatility of our bestselling Eliza and Ethan Mutiwrap dresses, to the award winning Kelsey Rose bridesmaids!”

Top bridesmaid trends for 2016 Tea length Flirty Tea length dresses are having a bit of a moment for 2016. The semi-formal length can have a sophisticated feel in fabrics such as lace or soft tulle, or for a retro vibe, go with a full circle skirt.

Cotton lace Textured cotton lace is the way forward giving a fresher feel to this traditional bridal fabric; beautiful on a dress bodice with a chiffon skirt, or all over for a real vintage feel.

Sheer fabrics Floaty chiffons and tulles are still a strong look for 2016. Pale greys and muted pastels such as rose and duck-egg heighten the romantic vibe.

Shades of grey Black and navy are so 2015!

Midnight lilac and unexpected gunmetal grey is perfect for a modern bridal party.

The glamorous ballroom setting gave the chic finish and so with using natural influences a rustic, chic finish has come together. To achieve this style it really is very simple, using the rustic and natural elements of bark, foliage, fur cones and autumn florals and dressing them along with gold and pewter stunning pieces it allows the two styles to marry and complement each other.

The colour theme was to use a soft palette of grey and café colours to complement the greenery and natural elements that were to be used. Our florals for the models are again simple yet seriously stunning whilst roses and amaryllis have been used I also included grasses, berries and mixed seasonal foliage to really soften the bouquets. The cake style again shows how rustic can work in a chic venue and is simply stunning.

When asked to be involved in this shoot it really wasn’t a difficult answer as the team that has helped to bring this style alive is a great one and it really shows in the finished result.

Multiway dresses Designers such as Kelsey Rose and Watters have introduced this genius design in a variety of different fabrics, ensuring each bridesmaid is happy in a dress they can make their own.

1st Floor, 20 Silver Arcade, Leicester www.divineladieswear.co.uk 46 | NICHE

Nicola Mason www.evelily.co.uk

Essential skin care detox We know that the cold weather plays havoc with our skin and how important it is to take care of it.

What we don’t realise is that we may be causing more damage than good if the right homecare routine is not followed.

Femi Latif of Femi Health and Beauty, explains the importance of cleansing and exfoliation.

Cleansing is crucial to the condition of your skin. Many of us will simply wipe our faces with cotton wool but we need to be thorough! Not cleansing properly can leave residue, make up and dirt on the skin so that when creams are applied, they are just clogging pores and creating oily and dry patches. Apply cleanser using circular motions and remove with a warm flannel – the texture will help to remove any excess!

Exfoliation removes dead skins cells from the top layer of your skin for a fresh complexion but it can cause damage if not done properly. People scrub away thinking that is what’s needed but this can lead to an over production of oil, thread veins and sensitive skin. Let the exfoliation particles do their job while you rub them gently into your skin. Exfoliating will decongest the pores but can cause problems if performed more times than necessary depending on your skin type.

www.femi-health-beauty.co.uk 0116 253 2393

Wedding Belles

Take the pain out of

Most women have been planning their weddings since they were little girls.

But after the excitement of the proposal dies down a bit and you start looking into the logistics, the initial euphoria can easily turn into panic.

As you start jotting down a ‘short’ list of all of the things you need to organise, you quickly find that there’s a lot more to think about than you anticipated.

If you have an upcoming wedding, why not let Nicola Mason and the team at Eve Lily take the stress out of the preparations. The business is named after Nicola’s daughter and she is joined in the business by her mum and a great team who assist on the wedding day.

Together they have years of experience in wedding and event design. “My passion is helping people create something from scratch and then seeing how it all comes together on the day!” said Nicola. “There is nothing better than seeing our clients’ reactions to how perfect it looks, or receiving a card thanking us for making their dreams become a reality.”

Wedding Planning Eve Lily offers a range of services from helping you plan your wedding and decide a theme, right through to venue styling and wedding decoration to create that perfect first impression for your guests.

The team have worked on lots of weddings over the years but they still understand that every wedding is unique and that their clients need to find a style that reflects them personally.

A consultation is arranged where they listen to your ideas and then they can inspire you with how to begin.

floral and decorative hire requirements .

This enables clients to source from one company, helping cut down on the stress. They can also help you in the final stages of wedding planning, dress the venue on the day, and can style photo shoots. nicolamason@evelily.co.uk 07808 736 281.

Once a theme has been established, the wedding design can start to be planned. They can then put together a style plan for you to make reference to whilst planning your wedding. This helps you to remain focussed and allows you, with help from the team, to create the desired look you are after.

There is a one off cost to this and they can be used alongside other services if required. Eve Lily also offers venue styling including chair covers, alongside NICHE | 47

HAIR & BEAUTY

WEDDING SPECIALISTS Enjoy our exclusive offers by quoting Niche 12

10% OFF

Feel beautiful, relaxed and confident with our wedding packages Visit us for a hair or make-up workshop before your big night out or hen party and receive

ÂŁ5 OFF per person

0116 277 6666

www.donovangoode.co.uk

29 Lutterworth Road, Blaby, Leicester LE8 4DW hello@donovangoode.co.uk follow us on facebook, twitter, pinterest and instagram

HELEN ALBORN CAKES

Bespoke wedding cakes, cupcakes and favours Freshly baked, dietary requirements on request.

Providing a full consultation and design service to create a cake that reflects your personality both in flavour and style.

07506 344 376

www.helenalborncakes.co.uk email: info@helenalborncakes.co.uk Business based in Anstey, Leicestershire and covering the East Midlands

48 | NICHE

NICHE | 49

Jeanne of Oadby

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.

Be

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

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

Clothing for the individual lady Sizes 6-28 Free alteration service on all stock 0116 271 4430 www.jeanneofoadby.com 4-6 Chapel Street, Oadby LE2 5AD 50 | NICHE

Christopher Scotney Wedding Wear Specialists 132 London Road, Leicester.

Telephone 0800 525836 to request a brochure or for further information.

Free Car Park • Air Conditioning

www.weddinghireleicester-scotney.co.uk

Wedding Belles

Bespoke Wedding Collections

Brides of bond street is a family run business that celebrates 28 years of designing and making wedding dresses in Leicester.

The shop is in the heart of the city centre on Silver Street and is part of what is known as the lanes, an area that has seen some fantastic changes since the discovery of Richard III nearby.

Tracy Brewill and Juliet Hooper pride themselves on continuing to offer the personal service that has been offered in their shop since 1987 when their parents started the business.

There are 2 stunning collections of dresses. The first collection is situated on the ground floor, which is an assortment of ready to wear garments that can be altered to fit any size and prices are all under £400.

The second collection is on the first floor, which is a bespoke collection where the customers can choose from a selection of over 100 stunning dresses made from a rich array of fabrics such as duchess satins, laces and silks all individually sourced from UK suppliers wherever possible.

This fabulous first floor collection allows clienteles to customise their chosen dress to their exact requirements or even have one designed from scratch.

No matter what the price, Brides of Bond Street guarantee to make every bride look and feel beautiful.

We also sell all accessories such as headdresses, veils, shoes, bridal

jewelry and bridesmaid dresses for adults and children to complete the picture in all sorts of colours.

Gowns found in the Brides of Bond Street exclusive boutique are of exquisite quality and everything is handmade in their Leicester-based workshop with the final touches and hand beading all done in the city centre shop.

Can’t find the perfect dress that screams ‘the one’? That’s because you haven’t visit Brides of Bond Street yet!

32 Silver Street, Leicester, Leicestershire LE1 5ET 0116 251 7898 www.bridesofbondstreet.com NICHE | 51

Leicester’s Heritage Venues

The Latest Designs in Ladies Hats

Catering for Success at Dimblebee’s

Make your own piece of history in our heritage venues.

We’re all excited for the wedding season coming up and the glamorous event that is Ladies Day at Leicester Racecourse, so we thought it was an appropriate time to point you in the right direction of one of the best millinery designers that Leicester has seen yet.

Multi award winning outside event caterers, The Dimblebee Catering Company, have the right ingredients when it comes to delivering personal service and high quality catering throughout the Midlands.

The medieval timber-framed Guildhall is one of the city’s most atmospheric and popular wedding venues, with a charming courtyard for a glass of champagne after your ceremony.

New Walk Museum and Art Gallery is a Victorian landmark, just minutes from the station. A sophisticated choice where up to 200 guests can admire the fine art and meet our dinosaurs.

A beautiful period setting for an exclusive, intimate wedding.

Belgrave Hall’s walled gardens provide a most romantic backdrop for photographs and a marquee for receptions is available AprilSeptember.

Abbey Pumping Station, with its magnificent beam engines, is a new and more unusual setting - already proving a popular choice with couples looking for somewhere different. Extensive grounds are available for marquee receptions.

Please take a look at our website and guide for further details.

Zoya Hall Millinery is a high end couture brand that creates bespoke ladies hats all designed and handmade in England. As the founder and designer, Zoya has created a brand new look for all your events this year.

The inspiration for her S/S 2016 ready to wear collection comes from a splendid nature in the rural British countryside.

The company has gone from strength to strength benefiting from their philosophy of continual improvement and investment in the very best equipment, premises and personnel.

The designs convey the dramatic and the classical look to make the wearer feel confident, extravagant and sophisticated. Zoya makes every effort in her designs to highlight the natural feminine beauty of each of her clients.

The latest member of the Dimblebee Catering family is Simon Cox, former General Manager (hospitality) at Curve Theatre, who joins the company as Operations Director.

The Leicester based designer was trained by the finest milliners in London and graduated from our very own De Montfort University specialising in design and the centuries old, traditional British craft of millinery.

“With extensive experience of VIP and corporate hospitality from Ascot to Silverstone. Simon brings with him a wealth of acumen that we welcome to help raise the profile and services of Dimblebee Catering to the next level,” said Robert Dudley (Managing Director)

In the future she plans to open a high end couture boutique in Leicester where her hats can be sold and admired.

www.leicester.gov.uk/weddings museums@leicesrer.gov.uk 52 | NICHE

Since forming in 2011, they have catered for some of the best venues and most prestigious clients. They have a fantastic reputation for food and flexible service for any size event, from intimate family celebrations to high quality handmade weddings and large corporate events.

To hire a hat for a special occasion, to discuss a bespoke order, or to buy a ready to wear hat contact Zoya.

“We are delighted to welcome Simon on board and continue to drive forward with the success and quality of Dimblebee’s. We have some very exciting opportunities ahead of us!”

For high quality outside catering and personal service, call The Dimblebee Catering Company.

www.zhmillinery.co.uk info@zhmillinery.co.uk

www.dimblebeecatering.co.uk 07811 232 801

If you are looking to get married, the Ready or Knot website has everything you need to help create your perfect day. There are thousands of wedding suppliers at your fingertips, from lavish stately homes, to cakes and confetti - there is something for everyone. Ready or Knot is your one-stop-shop for venues, flowers, presents, dresses or photographers - in fact everything you need for your big day.

Simply register for free and start searching, it’s easy!

www.readyorknot.co.uk

Quality Outside Catering & Wedding Caterers in Leicestershire & the Midlands.

07811 232 801 info@dimblebeecatering.co.uk www.dimblebeecatering.co.uk 54 | NICHE

Wedding Belles

Tie the Knot Tasty ways to

Executive Chef of Midlands leading caterers predicts this year’s top culinary wedding trends

a menu including gourmet bangers and mash as it was the Groom’s favourite, he was delighted!”

“Our unique traditional countryside style is holding strong throughout 2016. A blend of period elegance and less formal rustic family style table sharing foods are very much en vogue,” says Samantha Dimblebee, Executive Chef of the Dimblebee Catering Company.

The executive chef and her team continue to lead the trend for the latest wedding dessert styles. Giant desserts are in! With the couples’ favourites placed in the middle of each table, such as Dimblebee’s ‘Eton Messy’ (big bowls of DIY fun!), chocolate brownie towers, giant pavlova’s with fountains and grazing dessert counters with mini treats presented in a shot glass are just some menus Dimblebee have the pleasure of creating.

Dimblebee’s signature rustic slider canapes™ with Bellini style drink bars are perfectly suited into this theme being homemade with quality seasonal ingredients and presented with the handmade style that you only find with Dimblebee’s.

For the main course, Samantha says: “Rustic family style table sharing menus are in, which are a lot of fun and very relaxed. Guests can share, talk and carve away as they please with courses such as roast honey ham, roasted lamb leg or they can dive into a large pot of wonderful beef bourguignon and breads placed in the centre of the table – superb!”

‘Love Story’ menus are also becoming popular with Couples seeking to introduce foods into their day that remind them of certain points in their relationship.

“We had a recent couple who

wanted large sharing platters of olives and fine cheeses because the Groom proposed to his Bride in Italy.

“The Groom is also playing a much bigger part in the planning, once very firmly the territory of the Bride and Mother of the Bride! One of the best reactions we have had was for

One firm favourite amongst guests remains the Dimblebee elegant afternoon tea with scone towers, and this continues the period theme and perfectly suits a roaring fireside as the evening draws in, or how about the famous Dimblebee pork pie and cheese wedding cake with handmade mice!

With Dimblebee Catering your possibilities are endless.

See our recommended menus or discuss personalised catering. www.dimblebeecatering.co.uk 0116 283 3327

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History, Elegance Passion for your perfect day

Planning the perfect wedding day is an exciting journey to begin, with brides and grooms gathering inspiration on colour schemes, dresses, flowers and so much more.

When you, however, begin the journey to the big day the first thing you need to decide is where you’re going to make the memories of a lifetime.

It can seem overwhelming, gone are the days where you had the ceremony in a church or registry office and then off to the local hotel or pub to complete the celebrations, nowadays the happy couple has an array of choices to suit their characters and their vision of the ideal day.

One venue in Leicester is guaranteed to provide guests with the ‘wow’ factor, whilst carefully balancing the grandeur with an intimacy and attention that will welcome and encourage friends and family to immerse themselves in the special day - St Martins House.

Located on the foundations of

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the fort that formed the basis of Roman Leicester, the splendour and heritage of the site and its surrounding attractions make for an impressive backdrop for any wedding reception.

Situated in the city’s historic quarter, in the shadow of Leicester’s spectacular cathedral, this original Victorian building still retains much of the beautiful architecture synonymous with the period and offers a stunning backdrop to your wedding. Built in 1877, this former Grade II listed Grammar School has been transformed into a location many brides and grooms dream of.

The Grand Hall is the ideal place to celebrate, boasting a high vaulted ceiling and exquisite stained glass windows create a truly magical feel to any big day. Unrivalled in its beauty and definitely a spectacular space, the Grand Hall somehow

manages to retain a welcoming and intimate feeling and becomes the perfect place for friends, family and the happy couple to dine and dance the evening away.

We’ve been lucky enough to see the spectacular venue in it’s full splendour courtesy of our Account Manager, Emily, and her partner who chose St Martins to celebrate their nuptials earlier this year, she told us, “We wanted somewhere local, and affordable, but somewhere luxurious at the same time. When we went to view St Martins we just ‘knew’ - it was beautiful, it felt right and the staff were amazing, it was the perfect choice. The hospitality was amazing throughout and the staff could not have done more to make our day extra special.

We hosted formal dining as part of our reception and it was truly exceptional, attracting compliments from many of our guests.”

And, to capture those perfect memories of your special day, St Martins is ideally located to benefit from the exquisite surroundings of the Cathedral Gardens, comprising of beautifully kept grounds

“We wanted somewhere local, and affordable, but somewhere which felt luxurious at the same time.” including water features, stunning botanicals and a King Richard III statue. This provides an exceptional setting for your bridal shoot, whether in snow or sunshine, as well as al fresco seating for your guests to relax and catch a breath of fresh air.

Complete with a dedicated Wedding Co-ordinator, the experience at St Martins House is truly memorable, from table linen to catering, lighting to music, the team at St Martins commitment and experience help to ensure your day will surpass even your grandest expectations.

thank them enough, weddings can be stressful (as we found out) so to find a venue and professionals committed to allowing you to enjoy every moment cannot be underestimated.”

From your initial contact through to the final dance, they make it their mission to provide you with the day you’ve been dreaming of. From hot fork buffets to sit down meals, cocktails and canapés, and even your entertainment the team at St Martins are able to pinpoint the very best solutions for you, for any brief or budget, from the wealth of local suppliers who St Martins have worked with across the years.

If you’re starting out on your wedding journey take a look at our website or pop in and visit, we promise you won’t be disappointed. www.stmartinshouse.com 0116 261 5200

Emily continued, “St Martins made our day perfect and we couldn’t NICHE | 57

Leicester’s Heritage Venues Beautiful settings steeped in history †¢

Abbey Pumping Station Belgrave Hall & Gardens The Guildhall New Walk Museum & Art Gallery Whether you are looking for an intimate ceremony for 12 people or a major celebration for 200 guests, Leicester’s Heritage Venues have it covered with four alternative and quirky buildings.

museums@leicester.gov.uk leicester.gov.uk/weddings

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Wedding Belles

Bespoke Florals Delivered in Leicestershire and Rutland www.juliasflowers.co.uk julia@juliasflowers.co.uk 07754007122

BROWNS Lingerie &

Our range of impressive Modern and Classic Wedding Cars can be gracefully decorated with ribbon and bows. We choose our vehicles according to style and elegance. Each and every vehicle is spacious with plenty of legroom for bridal dress and train. We also can provide transport for the bridesmaids, Groom and other wedding guests.

M: 07866 101 457 T: 0116 2544177 E: info@champanericars.com w w w.champaneri cars.com

Beachwear

Lingerie Swimwear

Designer Brands Dressing Gowns Nightwear Gift Vouchers T: 0116 2707188 35 Francis St Stoneygate Leicester LE2 2BE www. BrownsLingerie.com

Super Dry Cleaners of Leicester are a premier provider of specialist cleaning and laundering services.

Wedding goWn Cleaning JuSt ÂŁ65 + free box Terms and conditions apply

0116 2247144 www.superdrycleaners.co.uk 8 5 b la by r oa d , S outh W i gston, Lei c ester , Le18 4Pb

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Your personal bridal dresser There’s a lot to think about when it comes to choosing a hair stylist and make-up artist for your big day.

You will need someone you can trust to make you look your best but do they have the experience? Will they know how to tackle that thing your hair does when it’s just been washed?

Marian Longe, founder of Tender Touch Hair and Beauty believes in styling her clients based on their character. “Doing what suits the client’s style and personality is what matters. I want to style them in a way that they will recognise their own beauty,” says our beauty expert.

Not only is she a fully-fledged hair stylist and self-proclaimed make-up artist, Marian is a professional event manager specialising in creative decoration and has links with many suppliers.

The three-in-one bridal dresser tells us, “We do events to suit peoples budgets. Nowadays there’s such a wide range of themes that not

everybody can afford so we work with our clients to get the very best from their budget.”

Throughout the planning and preparations leading up to your walk down the aisle, Marian will be there to advice and decorate your venue before perfecting your bridal party’s hair and make-up.

We asked what wedding trends the New Year will bring, “For themes, people are still going to be working a lot with flowers and this last year there has been a dramatic change in what people expect in bridal hair.

It’s no longer the simple up do, it’s a whole lot of artistic styles!”

Always being the one to go to when her friends needed their hair and make-up doing, Marian decided after graduating with a first in Business Information Systems to learn more about the science of her true passion.

“I really wanted to learn about the science to do with hair because people sell you products all the time but I’ve come to learn that nothing truly works – looking after your hair is what works.”

The beauty perfectionist believes in the simplicity of natural organic ingredients, which is why she uses Motions hair products on all her clients. www.tendertouchhairandbeauty.co.uk Facebook: Tender Touch Hair and Beauty Salon

Midlands Pro DJ’s are the perfect music men to get the party started.

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0116 266 4713 info@arinderbhullar.com 95 Belgrave Road, Leicester LE4 6A PHOTOGRAPHY - IGNITE MEDIA Shot on location in Santorini

New Year, New You 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

Martin Dalby

The Rhythm of Life

Scottish born composer, Martin Dalby has led a successful career working for the likes of the BBC and inspiring our future generations, we take a look at his accomplishments throughout the years.

As a young boy, destined to become one of Britain’s most prolific composers with an organist as a father and educated at Aberdeen Grammar School, he was surrounded by music.

Martin told us: “The first music I ever heard was in the womb whilst my father played clarinet. I obviously can’t remember what I heard but there is no question about it, it affected me! Without a doubt, the baby, not understanding what he’s hearing, is taking it in.”

The debate is on-going, playing classical music to babies (including those in the womb) has been found by some researchers to be a source of calm, a head start in education and a past time that strengthens the bond between parent and child.

This, coined with his already musical family, scaled a natural path towards a melodious life. The 18 year old musician studied Composition in 1960 after winning a Foundation Scholarship at The Royal College of Music in London alongside English composer, Herbert Howells and violist, Frederick Riddle.

Martin then went on to spend two years in Italy where he played the viola in an Italian Chamber Orchestra that toured Europe and North Africa. His time in Italy was thanks to the Otavia Prize and a Sir James Caird Travelling Scholarship; a

stage in his life that was wonderfully educating.

The key to success The start of a long and successful career began at the age of 23. His experience harmonised with the BBC as they searched for music producers and appointed him one of the BBC’s Music Programme music producers in 1965; a channel that would later be known as Radio 3.

He eventually became Head of Music at the BBC and won a Sony Gold Award for producing BBC Scotland’s radio as well as having written music for orchestras, the Church, radio, television, many songs and chamber music!

After leaving in 1971 to become a Cramb Research Fellow in Composition at the University of Glasgow, it wasn’t long before Martin found another project with the BBC that he couldn’t resist.

As Head of Music for Scotland in 1972, he put into development the public profile of the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra in Great Britain and abroad. His Sony Gold Award was won through his hugely influential and creative role producing radio channel ‘Scotland’s Music.’

The largest international Polish festival of contemporary music, the Warsaw Autumn and the Henry Wood Prom in London (aka The

“The first music I ever heard was in the womb whilst my father played clarinet.”

Proms), for which he wrote The Mary Bean, have performed Martin’s work: success on a whole other pitch! After this, going back to his roots, he composed The White Maa to celebrate 200 years of Union Street in Aberdeen.

All this and so much more in just over 30 years! The inexhaustible maestro said: “I consider myself very privileged to have been given the opportunity to have most of my work commissioned from many festivals including Edinburgh, Cheltenham, Cardiff, Orkney and Peterborough to name a few! I really enjoy being supportive of fellow musicians too and have composed many pieces specifically for orchestras and ensembles.”

Inspiring mini maestros As a child who grew up appreciating the beauty of music, Martin now encourages children to learn to play an instrument. He is passionate that children and young people should become more involved in the making of music.

Martin has written vocal music for children to play and enjoy. A set of songs produced for voice and piano are written in loving memory of one of his Labradors and named A Little Song Book for Tessa and Sunbeam for Sheba dedicated to Tessa’s late mother.

He described the importance of these compositions: “Writing this work was a natural way for me to honour the animals that have meant so much to me in my life. It’s a real expression of myself in that way.”

Keeping the tempo Retiring in 1993 didn’t mean Martin had any plans to slow down. Two years later he became the Chairman of the Composer’s Guild of Great Britain and a founding director of both the British Academy of Composers and Songwriters and the British Music Rights.

Martin was also the Warden of the Incorporated Society of Musicians and Performers and Composers Section in 2001 and carries on supporting and promoting musicians and composers.

Keeping up with the rhythm of life he has also managed a good balance between work and play. Whilst dedicating much of his time to his passions in music he still has time for his hobbies.

Bird watching, hill walking, reading and flying the skies with his pilot’s license are things that he loves to do in his free time as well as keeping his music fresh and inspired. www.impulse-music.co.uk/dalby

Fine & Fabulous Food

Coffee company gives spark to Market Harborough October 2015 saw the new Insomnia Coffee & Wine Bar open its doors in the vibrant town of Market Harborough

During the day, Insomnia is a venue for intimate social gatherings where one can partake in an atmosphere conducive to relaxing with a favourite refreshment.

Owner, Raj Aggarwal, told us: “I am thrilled to be showcasing such an exciting concept for the people of Market Harborough. It’s a very special town and we are excited to bring something new to it.”

The coffee and wine bar boasts an array of exceptional coffee, specialist teas and delicious cakes. Snacks during the day include a choice of superior quality range from hot and cold sandwiches, paninis and fresh salad dishes as well as wines and carefully sourced ingredients for nibble food after dark.

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At night, Insomnia transforms into a cosmopolitan wine bar offering specialist world wines, beers and spirits with the option of artisan foods. Raj explained, “In the evening we wanted to provide a warm and relaxed location for those looking for an intimate yet vibrant place for their evening social gatherings. We offer something for everyone and anyone is welcome!”

Whether day or night, Insomnia offers a friendly welcome to all and seamlessly combines a vibrant atmosphere with high quality fare creating a place you will want to visit time and time again.

The impressive array of Fairtrade coffee is of the highest quality and the food carefully chosen to compliment your selection. Evening

Fine & Fabulous Food

dining in Insomnia is as relaxed as in the daylight hours, delicious charcuterie boards and nibbles are the style of choice to accompany your drink and enhance your social gathering.

The concept is refreshing! The decor boasts a chic, sophisticated industrial feel with a nod to the historic building’s corsetry manufacturing roots making for a sophisticated yet modern vibe.

“We are providing something different for the local people.

Whether one is looking for a place to hold an informal or business meeting over coffee or pausing for a drink and a snack whilst shopping, our coffee and wine bar is the perfect place,” Raj said.

The building itself is the historic Victorian Symington Building, originally a new-build in 1889 for R & WH Symington; a manufacturer of corsets, foundation garments and swimwear. 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 Raj as very recently he launched a SPAR convenience store, which is also housed within the Symington Building. SPAR Market Harborough has a whole new fresh food concept.

The store provides a huge choice in fresh groceries including many local specialities and artisan goods such as jams from The London Jam Company and meat from local butcher Joseph Morris, freshly

baked goods and of course, all your desired food and home essentials.

Featuring some great 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 commented: “Our shop is unique in many ways, but in particular, we pride ourselves on the convenience of our location, our friendly staff and our fresh and exciting produce.

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!”

Both of Raj’s stores, Insomnia Coffee and Wine Bar and SPAR Market Harborough, provide employment for up to 30 locals having a positive effect upon the area.

This new innovative concept in coffee and wine bar dining make for a refreshing and welcome change in a market desiring a much needed boost! Open on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday throughout the day and evening, it is definitely worth sampling a fine wine from our recommended selection or perhaps a speciality beer would be more to your taste?

So, dine, relax and shop all in your local Insomnia Coffee and Wine Bar and SPAR Market Harborough at the character filled Symington Building, Market Harborough.

The Symington Building, Adam and Eve Street, Market Harborough LE16 7AG www.insomniacoffee.co.uk

Insomnia Cares Coffee grounds can be used for composting, as a fertilizer and to control pests. Use the grounds to take care of your plants all year round. Pick up a free coffee ground bag in any of our stores Our Insomnia KeepCup reduces landfill by saving disposable paper cups Over the course of a year we sell over 6 million Fairtrade cups of coffee. With the steady and fair business generated by Insomnia, communities in Colombia, Sumatra, Peru and Tanzania can build educational and medical facilities, improve water and electrical supply and facilitate living conditions Every year during the 2 weeks of Fairtrade Fortnight, we raise funds for our two nominated Insomnia Projects of the Oromia Coffee Farmers Co-operative Union, Ethiopia and the Hekima Girls School in Bukoba, Tanzania.

To date we have raised over £44,771

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Union’s Coffee Club Subscription £14.95 Standard Subscription & £20.95 Premium Subscription Ideal for foodies or coffee lovers with over 30 hand-roasted coffees to choose from. Tailor your subscription to your preferred brewing method, flavour profiles and types of roasts and origins. www.unionroasted.com/coffeeclub

Two Birds spirits get the passion flowing this Valentines...

9CT Flavoured Vodkas from £24.95 www.raisthorpemanor.com Tanqueray London Gin £22 All good supermarkets

Award-winning, artisan distillery Two Birds Spirits have introduced a touch of ‘passion’ to their range this Valentines Day... With a tantalisingly ‘fruity’ Passion Fruit Vodka.

Founded in Leicestershire and produced in the quaint town of Market Harborough, Two Birds distil all their own spirits using their hand built copper still, affectionately named after their Masters Distillers own father ‘Gerard’. Distilled in small batches of just 100 bottles at a time, care and perfection is at the heart of everything they do ensuring each batch is as good as the first.

The delicious Passion Fruit Vodka is created by using organic passion fruit and their English Countryside Vodka. The classic combination of cereal and root crops creates a naturally sweetened and exceptionally smooth vodka which is then rounded off with a gentle ‘hit’ of passion fruit. This light and very fruity drink makes the perfect Valentines tipple by simply adding a good glug to your glass of bubbles!

Bialetti Venus 4 cup £35 6 cup £38 10 cup £50 John Lewis OXO Covered Silicon Ice Cube Tray £15.00 www.oxouk.com

Raisthorpe Raspberry Liqueur Gin from £16.45 www.raisthorpemanor.com

The Two Birds Spirits range contains a number of awardwinning gins, seasonal vodkas and even absinthe, all of which are available in both 70cl & 20cl bottles. Keep an eye out on their website for more to come!

www.twobirdsspirits.co.uk 01858 415 256.

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Two Birds Speciality Vodka from £15 www.twobirdsspirits.co.uk

Taittinger Rose Champagne £48.99 Waitrose

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Fall in love at Café Rouge with their top 5 tips for the Perfect First Date!

1

3 4

Choose the venue wisely: More than 2/3 of people believe in love at first sight, so first impressions are everything! Research shows the worst places to go on first date are fast-food restaurants, so skip the quickies and drive thru’s! Ensure the restaurant has a great atmosphere and plenty of talking points, to show you’re in the know about where to head on the restaurant scene.

Always go Dutch: a great date can end badly with an awkward chat about the bill. Split the bill, it’s 2015!

Food is everything: you don’t want your date to leave with a bad taste in their mouth. My recommendation would be sharing plates, studies show it can bring you closer, or opting for a place that serves timeless classics.

Forget bottomless soft drinks: impress your date with a glass of fizz (you don’t have to tell them it’s on the house!)

Ditch the Device: Give your date your full attention. 11% of us check our phones every few minutes, so keep the conversation flowing by not checking your Instagram likes on your date night outfit, you want your date’s compliments not virtual ones!

2

5

… Oh and ladies make sure your lipstick is always rouge!

NEW CAFÉ BAR NOW OPEN IN OADBY

SERVING..

WINES BAGELS CRAFT BEERS DRAUGHT BEERS ALL DAY BREAKFAST HOMEMADE BURGERS SELECTION OF COCKTAILS & FRESH COFFEE

Mon - Thurs 10.30am - 10.30pm Fri - Sat 10.30am - 11.30pm Sunday 11.30am - 10pm

20%OFF*

food bill with this voucher

LIVE SPORTS 39 THE PARADE OADBY *Day/night expires 01/02/16. Not in conjunction with any other offer.

OPENING DEAL all regular tea or coffee

* £1.25 with this voucher

Brooklyn is a refreshing, exciting and upcoming Bar based in The Parade, Oadby.

With a bunch of dedicated cocktail specialists and a team of Italian culinary masterminds you’ll be sure to have a fantastic night.

In Partnership With: Don Leone 39-41 The Parade, Oadby Leicester LE2 5BB 01162151234 Don Leone 56-58 Queens Road Leicester LE2 1TU 01162203157 72 | NICHE

Fine & Fabulous Food

Harborough Market

Find everything you need to create the perfect Valentine’s Day this February at Market Harborough.

Cook a delicious meal with fresh local ingredients and discover a vast array of unique gifts from your local market.

Speciality Markets – Antiques, Retro and Collectables Market every Wednesday, Craft Market every Thursday, Antiques Market every Sunday

Tuesday-Saturday 8am-5pm. Sunday 9am-3pm Northampton Road, Market Harborough LE16 9HB /HarboroughMarket @HarbMarket 01858 465 206

LOVE YOUR LOCAL MARKET THIS VALENTINE’S DAY A SPECIALIST IN ALL THINGS WHISKY From our online store to attending food fairs and specialist markets around Leicestershire, we offer a large range of wonderful food products, gifts and Whisky not found easily on the high street.

Our passion and knowledge for Whisky is clear when you attend one of our tasting events. We offer a range of tasting events for anyone over 18 years old. These are a fun way to discover, experience and learn about different Whiskies.

Many of the food products have won awards and others are handmade in small batches from the best UK producers we can find.

We hope you will enjoy eating and drinking with us.

#whiskeysorchard

Tel: 0116 216 1730

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Where the cooks go…

Why wait for the sunshine? Enjoy your VikingRange BBQ throughout the year with the food of choice complimented a glass of your favourite tipple. These appliances will service your needs whatever the weather.

Has the owner of one these VikingRange BBQ’s, don’t hide them away use them to the max and entertain your friends come rain or shine.

DELIVERY & STANDARD INSTALLATION INCLUDED Connect with us...

www.codltd.co.uk 01530 443648 74 | NICHE

Fine & Fabulous Food

Reviving the

Great British pub The warmth of your local – the food’s quality, the drinks are varied and the company is well appreciated There are 11 Steamin’ Billy pubs throughout the East Midlands that provide that nothin’-else-likeit, family friendly feeling where traditional British pub values are upheld at every level.

Founder, Billy Allingham said, “We’re all about getting people down the pub and creating a nice atmosphere and environment for people to come and enjoy great food and great beer.”

In Hinckley last year, Steamin’ Billy took over The Railway and increased turnover tenfold and is keen to acquire more neglected pubs and turn them into great places to be.

The pub enthusiast explained, “We firmly believe that a quality product and environment have to be provided in order to maintain the standard in our pubs to make them worth visiting.”

Billy described the Great British pub as a place in which you can build your home. A place where the kids, the dog, teachers, vets, mechanics, builders, architects and business owners can settle in and

get together and enjoy a quality product.

“We interact less and less with each other with the advent of the internet. You don’t even have to go out to do the shopping. We are naturally social people so I think getting down the pub and talking is brilliant.”

Go global with the Steamin’ Billy bunch! They’ll be taking 15 people along for a three day 250 mile cycling trip around Copenhagen at £750 per person.

Apply before March, email billy@steamin-billy.co.uk

Save the Date

12th Feb 2016 ‘Getting to Know Rendall Munroe’ Sportsman’s Dinner at the Cow and Plough

Being a great believer in supporting people and businesses within communities, Billy commented, “Pubs raise a huge amount of money for charities and events so it’s a really great thing to be involved in.”

The Steamin’ Billy Brewing Co selects a charity to support annually.

This year, all money raised will go towards the Matt Hampson Foundation; giving aid to those who have suffered serious injury or disability, particularly from participation in a sport.

Billy invites you to get on your bike for their annual Billy Bike Ride that will see participants riding 50 miles (around the pubs, of course) taking place on 17th July. They’re calling for anyone to register who owns a bike, unicycle, tandem, rally chopper, Brompton, penny farthing and any professionals or ex-professionals who want to get involved as well!

Get out and about with your local Steamin’ Billy pub! www.steamin-billy.co.uk NICHE | 75

Hot Property

New Builds for the

New Year

Due to the ever growing popularity of new build homes, SLM Builders move in to the New Year with a number of contracts already under their belt, including working for East Midlands Housing Association on eight new build homes this January.

Established for thirteen years, with fifty years combined experience in the building industry, SLM are fast becoming the ‘go-to’ building company for smaller property developers looking to build between one to five properties. As a client, you get to deal directly with the business owners, Lee, Mark and Tracey Daniels, who have many years’ experience in all phases of development. They use this knowledge and understanding to work with their clients, ensuring they exceed expectations when it comes to both service and quality.

Working to clients’ specification and budget whilst maintaining 76 | NICHE

their specialism in high-spec new build properties are what they do best. Property developers choose SLM because of their flexibility to be able to not only deal with architects, but to also work directly with clients that wish to self-manage their build. It is this varied experience that won them the recent contract to completely refurbish and redevelop the new Lumbers Jewellers store in 2015.

Their commercial section boasts many refurbishments and rebuilds, from high-end gastro pubs to maintenance contracts with many local authorities. SLM will work with their clients from initial concept right through to completion. They

can offer the peace of mind that all the services and tradesmen required for the build are all managed under the SLM umbrella, greatly reducing pressure on the client.

Buying a new build means any major repairs or decorating costs usually associated with buying a home can be eliminated for many years. Buyers usually have the option to choose the specification of many internal fixtures and fitting including kitchens, bathrooms, flooring and decoration, meaning they get to live in their dream home from moving day. Another cost saving benefit of a new build

Hot Property

is the increased energy efficiency compared to older, undeveloped properties. With all this in mind, it is obvious to see why new build homes are becoming the preferred choice for the discerning home owner.

Ten year warranty protection, through the National HouseBuilding Council (NHBC), is only available for new build properties and also adds that extra level of protection and peace of mind that you are getting what you paid for, not to mention that should you decide to sell after a few years potential buyers know that they too are protected.

If you are thinking of starting a new build project in 2016, why not let SLM Builders take care of it for you. Contact them to discuss your requirements.

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

WHAT THEIR CLIENTS SAY Due to their reputation for high quality and affordable building services, SLM are often referred a wide variety of building work.

Here’s what some of their clients have said about them:

Contractors as our preferred contractor which we hope will incorporate a new build project of 6 new homes with an approximate project value of £750,000.”

M&M Projects (UK) Ltd

“Due to a recently completed conversion and new build project, my business partner and I were recommended to SLM Building Contractors to carry out this project...

“SLM Building Contractors are well known to us professionally at Director Level, and are already a long standing and welcomed inclusion on our own preferred tender lists for development projects. These have, and continued to range between small to medium sized contracts, in both the Residential and Commercial market, and they have been successful in procuring work through selective tendering on several of our own projects where we have acted as principle Design Consultants, for both Private and Public clients.

SLM have been very professional and very up front with their work ethic which has allowed both my business partner and I to continue to run our other businesses with the knowledge our project continues safely, efficiently, on time and on budget.

We are currently looking at our next project and will be nominating SLM Building

During such occasions, as appointed Principle Contractors we have found them to be exemplary in their attitude, and in the discharge of their Contractual Obligation, unerring in completing projects on time, within budget and to the total satisfaction of the client.

Despite challenging times within the industry they have continued to secure contracts, which is further testimony to their winning ideology and levels of professionalism.”

PSB consultancy & Design Ltd

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• • • • •

Specialist pond builder Pond cleaning Pond maintenance Wildlife ponds New builds

• Landscaping and Decking Service • Planting Service • Free design and quote • Expert in shady borders • Low maintenance plans • Gardens that look good in all four seasons

See my blog online at wwwnichemagazine.co.uk/index.php/blog

INTERIOR DESIGN

Call for a FREE coffee consultation

0116 271 2584

Based at your local lifestyle store...

Maison interiorS Showroom: 37-41 London Road, Oadby, Leicester LE2 5DL email: designer@zoehubbard.com 80 | NICHE

Hot Property

Long Live the Storage King!

In the wake of Christmas decadence and the aftermath of all the gift giving and - crucially – gift receiving, we all could do with more storage in our lives.

I personally know the dilemma of gratefully accepting lovingly chosen presents only to then face the problem of ‘where do we store that at home?’

Of course we could always go by the one-in-one-out rule: whenever you acquire something new, something old or unused must be given away or sold to make room. This is a great rule of thumb, especially for clothes (who doesn’t have an overstuffed wardrobe?) but isn’t always so easy in practice.

Modern living compounds the problem; new houses just don’t have that much storage space.

Lucky are they who are blessed with cellars or attics or a room or two to spare.

The answer is to invest in clever storage solutions. Attractive boxes, shelving or dual-use furniture which hides clutter away are the busy household’s best friend. Go the extra mile and actually organize the items you’re storing and hey-presto you have a suddenly tidy home and you actually know where you can lay your hands on that photo album from 1995, or that dishwasher warranty…

Notonthehighstreet.com Danish Copper Hexagonal Shelf £150 “I’m really into the pinkish blush of copper and rose gold so this fits right into that trend, plus the unusual shape makes this a real winner for me.”

Graham & Green Chindi Storage Boxes £62.50£187.50 “These are simply amazing!

Bright colours and bold patterns, nothing better to brighten up a dull January day.”

Brissi Sasha Faux Lizardskin Magazine Rack £89 “A super stylish way to keep your coffee table clear of all those magazines and leaflets.

Practical, simple and oh-solovely.”

Luxdeco Fowood Design Sophie Jewellery Box £99 “This would be a gorgeous addition to any dressing table.

Keep your valuables in a precious-looking box, pretty enough to be jewellery itself!”

Kelly Hoppen The Drawer Cube £450 “Beautiful side table storage.

Elegant and simple and now available in many new colours.

My personal favourite is the Blush as it reminds me of rose gold.”

www.chrysalisinteriordesign.com/hotpicks

Check out my top picks for some seriously stylish storage solutions which will see you through those dark days after the Christmas festivities.

Happy New Year Everybody!

Samantha x Tel: 0121 647 6709 f: Facebook.com/ChrysalisInteriorDesign t: @ChrysalisID www.chrysalisinteriordesign.com

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Talking Interiors with ‘The Lanes’ – Eat, Meet & Shop for those products and services you just can’t get elsewhere.

Harlequin Interior Design at 11 Loseby Lane was established in 1976 by Elizabeth Fitzsimmons and Robin Sinclair.

Their design ethos is simple, create stunning interiors, source the best fabrics, wallpapers and furniture from around the world and showcase them over 2 floors in the centre of Leicester.

interior that will always evolve yet remain timeless.

2016 marks their 40th Anniversary and plans are afoot for some special events, watch this space.

The showroom also houses art, glassware and all the soft furnishings you need to complete your home renovation. Elizabeth says, “We create the ultimate interiors for the young couple just starting out as well as those successful Leicestershire entrepreneurs and business people.”

It can seem daunting to try and find time and the flair to alter your décor. Harlequin Interiors have the team to do just that, creating an

11 Loseby Lane, Leicester LE1 5DR www.harlequininterors.co.uk 0116 262 0994

Inspired interiors The Carter upholstery range from Steijer is timeless, elegant and comfortable, qualities which this remarkable brand have built their philosophy upon.

Sloane is an understated, elegant and timeless collection of tables. Stylistically versatile, upmarket in appearance and astonishingly well priced.

The three arm lamp is a high quality reproduction from BlueSunTree. These unmistakable lamps are truly exceptional and unique.

Carter 3 seat sofa in granite £750 Sloane coffee table £99 Sloane nest of tables £120 Black Orchid three arm floor lamp £324

www.bluesuntree.co.uk 82 | NICHE

Hot Property

Stylish Surfaces Want to create a wow factor in your kitchen without changing the cabinets?

If your kitchen needs brightening up, opt for a reflective work surface such as polished stone, glass or stainless steel. Glass is becoming more commonly used for its hygienic, non-porous properties but also the choice of colour and creativity. Add a backlit glass splash-back for that instant wow factor! Mirror is another fantastic option. Tinted mirrors in grey or bronze can add an elegant touch.

If space allows, combining two finishes and textures creates a warm, homely touch. Solid wood is a beautiful, natural material and can help combine the kitchen and living areas. Solid wood can also be treated in various ways with oils or sandblasting techniques to give incredibly unique results.

In a more traditional setting, stone work tops are still the most popular option. Composite work surfaces offer anything ranging from plain flat colours to granite/marble effect slabs and are less porous than natural granite and marble, with better heat and scratch resistant properties.

Before you start designing your kitchen, think about the light available and if reflective surfaces are the best option. Consider any existing materials in the space and try to contrast not combine. Think about the look you are trying to achieve, whether you want the surfaces to be the feature point and what purpose they will fulfil. Finally why not try something new and exciting and be thrilled with the end result! www.pluginteriors.com info@pluginteriors.com 0116 262 4440

Escapism As I embark on my first holiday in a year, my thoughts turn to why we go on holiday. Truth is, its to get away from the stress and grind of everyday life. Putting ourselves on a beach or in a city takes us out of the ‘work environment’, which for most of us can consume the majority of our time.

But for most of us a holiday is a once a year maybe twice (more if you’re lucky!) experience, and gives us that escapism we need to clear our minds. Clearing our minds and resetting them, helps us function better and in the long term be more productive.

So what’s this got to do with your garden? Your garden can be your own escapism, the place you can go and clear your mind. A place that will help you be calm, and can reset your thoughts.

As we are now moving towards the spring why not start to think about planning in your garden?

But firstly what kind of garden do you want. Is it either: ◆ A garden which is low maintenance ◆ A garden which has ‘lots to do’ as this helps clear your mind ◆ A formal garden with clean lines, open spaces ◆ A garden which is for heavy wildlife

Create-a-rug!

When you’ve hunted through every department of every store and every boutique bazaar in the land for that perfect finishing touch for you new look lounge – and nothing cuts it!

Stop looking to the stars for your inspiration and start at grass roots level, or the floor to more precise.

A perfectly placed rug can shout volume when the colour and contrast is carefully considered. At Michel John Flooring we have the most diverse range of rugs in the region, from perfect Persians to shaggy Sheepskins.

And what’s more we offer our very own ‘Create-a-Rug’ service online! You can choose your colour, texture, contrast, size, design – pretty much everything! All in the comfort of your own home.

You can match your homely hues and select whether you’d like a hand-tufted finish for your flooring masterpiece, you are in control and you can really have what you like and what fits with your designer dreams.

The process is simple and there’s help all the way through to get your perfectly finished flooring finale. You can even print off your creation or download as a PDF to show your loved ones for their approval.

For 2016, don’t waste your outdoor space, start creating the garden YOU want, and build your own little escape. Check back next issue when I will be discussing how adding a pond can change your garden more than you think.

To find out more simply go to our web site and you’ll be curling up on your very own bespoke designer rug before you know it.

www.michaelwheat.co.uk info@michaelwheat.co.uk 0116 240 3735/07590 535 623

www.michael-john.co.uk 188 - 190 Narborough Road, Leicester LE3 OBU

Michael John Flooring annual sales starts January 4th – perfect to grab a post Christmas bargain!

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

Come see us at:

SALE

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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: Tuesday to Saturday 10am - 5pm or by appointment Tel: 01572 829927 or 07885 757 796 Email: info@therugstudio.co.uk Website: www.therugstudio.co.uk

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www.bargainbuyz.co.uk 84 | NICHE

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

o pr ur A N es ne v su w ai ow re d la w riv b as ew le hi a ! ng y/ se pat rv io ice !

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.

High Quality Manufacturers, and High Quality Manufacturers,Suppliers Suppliers and Installers of uPVC and Aluminium Windows Installers ofDoors uPVC and Aluminium Windows / Conservatories / Skylight Lantern Roofs / Bi-Folding Doors / Fascia & Gutter Doors / Conservatories / Skylight Lantern

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Come Direct To a Trade Manufacturer

No Salesmen, No Showroom, No Extortionate Retail Prices Just High Quality ‘A-Rated’ Frames At Trade Prices!

(All Quotations Are Free)

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.

Tel: 0116 2611155

Fax: 0116 2611166

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

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r Celebrating ou

th

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ALL MORTGAGE APPLICATIONS submitted during January 2016

For more details, call 0800 917 9202 or visit hrbs.co.uk /mortgages Modern mortgages Traditional service YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE Principal Office: Upper Bond Street, Hinckley, Leicestershire LE10 1DG. 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 | 68

Hot Property

Dry Carpet Cleaning

Hinckley & Rugby Hinckley & Rugby Building Society’s IT team has won the 2015 Jeanette Lewis FAB Award, the annual prize for the Society’s most outstanding members of staff.

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.

Usually presented to one member of staff, the IT team won this year’s award for its impressive teamwork when overcoming a challenging crisis affecting the Society’s computer system.

The problem was identified immediately before a Bank Holiday weekend and the IT team worked 14 hour days to fix it. Two of the team postponed holidays to ensure normal service when the Society opened for business on the Tuesday.

The team received the award from chief executive Chris White at the annual November gathering of all Hinckley & Rugby’s staff.

Chris said, “What the IT team achieved over those four days was phenomenal. They really showed their dedication and skill, overcoming a significant challenge and in good humour. They really lived up to the ethos of Jeanette, who this award is named after.”

The Society’s bi-monthly FAB staff award winners form the nominees for the Jeanette Lewis trophy, first awarded in 2012 in memory of a much missed former colleague.

All the winners and nominees of the past year’s bi-monthly FAB awards (Fabulous service, Above and Beyond) were congratulted at the staff briefing.

l No water used. l Woolsafe approved products used. l Woolsafe trained technicians. 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.

T: 0800 152 2064 or 07821 107 526 www.hrbs.co.uk/mortgages 0800 917 9292

E: info@ecocleanfloorcare.co.uk @ecoclean_floor www.facebook.com/ecocleanfloorcare.co.uk

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Tel: 0116 267 5117

Loughborough Road, Wanlip, Leicester LE7 4PN www.bentleysgardenbuildings.co.uk Find us on the A6 between Leicester and Loughborough Open 7 days a week 9-5.30 88 | www.countryside-lavie.com NICHE

Home Offices • Hot Tub Covers • Summer Houses • Garden Rooms • 35

Hot Property

Landlords Are you thinking of investing into a buy-to-let property? Or perhaps you have a few buy-to-let properties already and consider them your pension plan.

It would seem following announcements in July and November, that the government would like to deter people from investing in property for financial gain.

Interest rate relief – This adjustment is being phased in between April 2017 – April 2020. The plan is to reduce the tax relief available on finance costs for landlords whose main earnings take them into higher rates (around £42k).

Starting April 2016 HMRC will bring in two tax adjustments to achieve this.

At present finance costs incurred by landlords in higher rates of tax, receive tax relief at 40%+.

The new rules will only allow 20% tax relief. In 2017-18 only 25% of the finance costs will be subject to this adjustment, 2018-19 50%, 2019-2020 75% and by 2020 the measure will cover all finance costs.

Planning is key to minimise both of the above rules impact on your income. Give Whitehall a call to

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NICHE | 89

A Smart-step closer to home Unless you’re a multibillionaire named Tony Stark with a laboratory full of futuristic gadgets and a highly advanced computer system/personal assistant, and a robotic body suit, the comfort of a space-age existence seems a little out of reach, but the masterminds at Abel have come up with something a little more viable to help you on your way to an Iron Man-inspired lifestyle A user interface that allows you to control your household appliances with a tap, clap or voice command was once something only seen in the movies.

The use of smart devices have made this a thing of the past with physical objects being embedding with electronics and sensors that make up the ‘Internet of Things.’

Homes are becoming smarter and experts have predicted that by 2020 the use of multi-connected devices will soar to over 26 billion (The Guardian, 2014).

Abel’s HomeControl+ app makes moving into the world of future technology more affordable. The January launch of the new app allows you to connect to your home from anywhere in the world.

From your mobile phone or tablet you can use the app to set and unset your alarm system, view its status in real time and control your lights and blinds.

Each of these facilities are completely customisable for your personal

preference allowing you to take total control. Attempting the dive into bed before the lights go out won’t be a struggle anymore, opening the blinds in the morning can be done before your alarm to wake gently and there’ll be no sinking feeling when you’re settled at work and remember you didn’t set the alarm this morning.

Push notifications will pop up on your device to alert you of any faults, low batteries and due services and if (touch wood) anything should happen while you’re away from your property the view from your CCTV will be displayed through the app immediately.

The simple integrated arrangement provides peace of mind and the luxury of only ever having to lift a finger – Literally! So it’s perfect for those of you interested in gadgets around the house but don’t want to spend a fortune.

Fifty years of Abel has seen the company grow from basic alarm arrangements to their present day multi-connected, technologically advanced, all-in-one, moviemotivated interfaces.

Their more advanced home automation systems can control everything from the water features and electric gates to the heating and entertainment gadgets in and around your home or company building.

The adept design and installation team at Abel have fitted smart fire, intruder, water and security fog systems to residential, commercial and celebrity properties supplying them with affordable, cutting-edge luxury.

Their wire free tech means you have the flexibility to add to your system at a later date with no need to compromise on the décor!

But it’s not just about giving you the amenities to live a life of serious luxury, Abel are ultimately concerned for your safety.

This time last year there were 1,190 Leicestershire burglaries (UKCrimeStats) in January and February alone. Abel security systems will stop criminals in the act, helping to minimise the risk of your personal loss and assisting to identifying such offenders.

With the HomeControl+ app, its more basic functionality allows you

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Hot Property

But it’s not just about giving you the amenities to live a life of serious luxury, Abel are ultimately concerned for your safety. to see exactly what is going on in your home so that you can decide which step to take next but for larger budgets, CCTV can be hooked up to Abel’s UK based Communication and Monitoring Centre (CMC).

Here, fully trained and licensed staff watch over your home 24/7 with the ability to reset your alarm remotely, dispatch field engineers or alert the authorities.

You can rest, safe in the knowledge that your home remains protected while you sleep, work and socialise with movie-like tech in the palm of your hand. There’s no need to come back to a cold dark home any longer.

Live a little more like Iron Man with the help of Abel – providing the technology of tomorrow, today. www.abelalarm.co.uk 08448 00 22 77

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Talk Busimess

Apps for business

the benefits

Much like reading a book or newspaper in the flesh rather than online, many of us still prefer the paper versions when it comes to calendars, forms or diaries but in reality, these take up precious time and space in our corporate lives.

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Swipe & Tap Director Aaron Wardle told us how apps will drive businesses forward in the New Year It has been suggested that we are becoming too dependent on technology in our everyday lives and speculating on how we would survive without it after an apocalypse of some kind has no doubt been on the minds of many of us.

While we have all its benefits at our fingertips, Swipe & Tap make use of the technology available to us and create bespoke mobile applications for businesses.

There are two types of apps that Aaron and his team specialise in, “Brand awareness apps can help businesses become experts in their field and give users a useful tool but a lot of companies still think an app should contain basic information

such as a map, contact details and latest news, users will simply install the app and quickly delete it as it has no real value to them.”

Aaron continued, “Our solution based apps are very easy for businesses to justify and can quickly see the benefits. These help to streamline tedious processes and save time and money.”

According to Swipe & Tap, there are 47 million digital users in the UK alone. Ninety two per cent of these own a mobile phone and 56 per cent use a mobile as their primary browsing device, which will increase even further in 2016.

The IT expert reported that this year will see a rise in digital mobile payments, wearable technology, e-commerce apps and location aware apps. He suggests having a mobile app for your business will

Talk Business

The brains behind the apps

A bespoke app which would solve a business problem can help companies save time and money and drive businesses forward more effectively. give you the advantage over the competition.

“Imagine a customer walking by your store with an app that could automatically alert them to a promotion or special offer to entice them into the store. This has become very popular and a great way to increase footfall in retail stores.”

He added, “Apps can help build your commercial brand. A bespoke app which would solve a business problem can help companies save time and money and drive businesses forward more effectively.”

This year Swipe & Tap introduced a personalised app solution for a Leicestershire based firm, which eliminated the need for paperwork in the office.

This alone is expected to save the company £10,000 in the first year on printing costs. The solution has also reduced the number of errors traditionally found within manually filled-out paperwork and lost documents.

So if your company’s New Year Resolutions aren’t already appbased, get in touch with Swipe & Tap to discuss where you want your business to be by the end of 2016.

0116 268 8722 www.swipeandtap.co.uk

Happy Tappers In 2014 Swipe & Tap created a bespoke training quotation app for a client whose engineers were not promoting training for new equipment which was being installed. After some research, the IT professionals discovered the reason for the poor training sales during installations was because the engineers were embarrassed to take out their laptop and keep the customer waiting for five to ten minutes whilst it booted up.

So Swipe & Tap created an iPhone Training Quotation tool, which took seconds to provide a formal quotation to the customer. To the customers delight, the new app encouraged more training quotations and sales were up 35% in Europe during the first quarter.

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Leicester’s Business Professionals

The Ones to Watch

Photo accredited to Brill Creative

by 2014. At that point, Danny and his colleagues acquired the ‘Anthony Miles’ brand and began designing, producing and selling their own men’s and ladies footwear under the Anthony Miles label. The company also produce a lot of shoes for high street fashion retailers under their own labels too.

His major role within the company sees him handling the design, development, sales and production process alongside the Walk This Way teams in the UK and China.

Danny Warren – Co-Founder & Managing Director at Walk This Way Footwear and Accessories Ltd With an interest in anything handson and creative, Danny always wanted to end up with a career in art and design but never did he imagine that he would become Co-founder and Managing Director of his very own footwear company.

Walk This Way was up and running

Previous jobs have certainly had an impact on his career teaching him that hard work and long hours are often required and that there are no shortcuts when it comes to running a business.

Danny admits that he wouldn’t be where he is today without the support of his wife, children and team; all of which have been a great source of inspiration and a lot of fun to be around.

Tim Emmony – Managing Director MNE Accounting Ltd Growing up in Arnesby surrounded by self-made successful people was great motivation for Tim. His parents taught him that dedication leads to success and that money is not the only way to measure this!

Tim, a devoted drummer and Tigers fan, chased the high life by training to become a pilot but after realising it wasn’t just going to be flying jumbo jets to New York every week, he decided to change plans!

Past jobs have given him great experience, particularly when he worked as a consultant at an FD level as well as being shown how not to do things by some pretty awful managers. These have prepared him for his current position at MNE and he has never felt that a lack of specific qualifications has held him back

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220 runners – this year under new the new name of Farmageddon there were over 1000 brave competitors. The Avalanche run, held in February, will boast similar numbers as will the Twilight event in September.

Quest plan to add more courses to their portfolio and are looking

to expand into weekend events and bespoke corporate activities in 2016. Mark says, “I am keen to develop a corporate and more tailored program of events that provide more engaging and extreme challenges as well as adding to our hugely popular OCR events.”

Mark Booton - Quest Events Following an accomplished career with family engineering business Mark Booton discovered a taste for a more extreme working environment. Having provided high-end solutions for top international clients he hungered for a more challenging terrain and Quest Events was born.

Quest are a local company that manage Obstacle Course Races (OCR), that’s running through muddy fields, vaulting fences and wading ice-cold lakes! 2010 saw the first race, Farmyard Frolics, attract

from having a motivational, forward thinking role in developing the growing firm.

Wright directly and soon after joined the award winning company.

Being a niche and highly specialist family law and mediation practice based in Leicester city centre it was the perfect solution for Stephanie.

Mr Tim, as he has comically come to be known as by his team, is inspired by his Leicester clients that have evolved into excellent businesses with great prospects.

A recent charity abseil for needy cause Spark Arts and voluntary pro-bono advice at Leicester Family Court have kept Stephanie busy along with providing mentorship for a final year Leicester University law student.

Stephanie Kyriacou - Glynis Wright Stephanie is the latest recruit to leading Leicestershire family law firm Glynis Wright & Co Solicitors.

Having cut her teeth at Spearing Weight after being awarded a coveted training contract in 2011, Stephanie knew her vocation would lie in family law. With her goal to become the best in her field Stephanie approached Glynis

Her sight set firmly on becoming Leicestershire Law Society ‘Junior Lawyer of the Year’ in 2017 Stephanie says, “I aim to be the very best I can, offering my clients top service delivery and becoming well known and respected in my field.”

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No Worries

with Torr Waterfield

Now one of Leicester’s leading accountancy practices, Torr Waterfield know what it takes to build a successful business.

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Formed by Mark Torr and Mike Waterfield 15 years ago, the firm has gone from strength to strength; today employing trainee, qualified and specialist accountants and tax specialists whose combined expertise provides an invaluable wealth of knowledge into your business.

“Friends and colleagues still talk about going to the accountants with dread and fear in their eyes. I can be smug and cheerful as I tell them going to see my accountant is a total joy and I look forward to it. I consider Torr Waterfield a part of my team and business.” Sarah Coleman, Inkymole Limited

From sole traders to large corporations Torr Waterfield’s specialist advisors can assist anyone with literally anything concerning their business finances from securing funding to bookkeeping and payroll on a monthly basis; financial audits, change of ownership and acquisitions.

Running, and building, a successful enterprise is what they specialise in and whilst business owners concentrate on business growth; Torr Waterfield become an extension of their business, ensuring the finances are all in order. They also ensure clients are fully compliant

with responsibilities such as annual returns and corporation tax and can grow their business in a targeted way with advice on forecasting, cash flow and sound financial planning.

“By upgrading to Sage accounting and with your help, you have given us a much better understanding of our profit and loss accounts across the whole business. We are now able to plan for a more profitable business going forward. I would have no hesitation in recommending your services and will continue to use your services.” Wayne Lord, Wayne Lord Plumbing & Heating Recently, Torr Waterfield has been commissioned for a variety of projects including advising on Research & Development, tax credits, capital allowances, patent box and entrepreneur’s relief. If it involves your accounts and tax strategy, this is the firm who can find you the answers to save you time, money and worry.

“I want to let you know that we will be recommending Torr Waterfield for all accountancy advice and work, without any hesitation. We want to share this feel-good factor whenever we can.” Jill & Stuart Simpson, SJS Carpet Cleaners.

Torr Waterfield have themselves experienced phenomenal organic growth since their formation with the majority of their clients coming from referrals. These are the advisors who can take your business to the next level and their own success is evidence of just that.

“I wanted to record my thanks and appreciation for your work on our annual accounts and solicitor’s audit. As always your work is

Torr Waterfield have made it a priority to not only be of value to their clients growth and success, but to the young aspiring accountancy professionals too. comprehensive and we received excellent service from Mark and Matt. We would not hesitate to recommend Torr Waterfield to our clients for accountancy services.”

Greg Hollingsworth, Hollingsworth Solicitors.

What sets Torr Waterfield apart from many competitors in their manner of working. Despite offering the services typically associated with the medium to large accountancy practices, they have managed to retain a real focus on the personal service their clients need and the local community of which they are a key part of, and an enthusiastic group of advocates for local talent and causes.

Torr Waterfield have made it a priority to not only be of value to their clients growth and success, but to the young aspiring accountancy professionals who they offer internships to and local charitable causes who help to enhance the City and its residents.

They work closely with other professional services firms, both

in business and in pleasure, with one of Mike Waterfields’s favourite annual events being the charity go-karting evening which last year saw 11 firms competing with one another for the ultimate go-karting title and raising money for their annual charity at the same time.

Peter Morris, Director, told us “It is one of Mike’s hobbies and we saw a perfect opportunity to get everyone together and to raise some funds. It’s a great evening for all, and seeing everyone in their overalls battling it out on the track is certainly out of the usual context. I think it helps to have some fun with one another, it cements the relationships and enables us to continue working with the best firms, banks and introducers available for our clients.”

Each year Torr Waterfield select a charity, the nominated charity for 1015 being the Epilepsy Society, and take on challenges to raise as much money as possible including sponsored walks, half marathons and, of course, the obligatory gokarting: anything for a good cause!

If you are looking for financial peace of mind from local, experienced and professional accountants, then Torr Waterfield is the team for Leicester’s entrepreneurs to call upon. www.torrwaterfield.co.uk

NICHE | 97

Bullying within the workplace

Seperations on the rise amongst the silver haired

Are you claiming the tax relief?

Bullying is a regular and frequent problem in which HR professionals have to address on behalf of the organisations they are engaged to work for. This can cost organisations thousands of pounds in lost productivity, management time and legal costs. It is interesting that bullying is not specifically defined in law.

Divorce rates are dropping except among the silver splitters.

In assisting our clients to make Research & Development (R&D) tax relief claims since the launch of the government’s R&D tax relief incentive scheme nearly 15 years ago, I’ve come across many different projects.

Types of bullying can include: The ‘blind eye’ This could be a person who is considered too ‘valuable’ to the business, and is seen by employees to be ‘getting away with murder’. Such behaviour is usually aggressive, and goes unchallenged due to the fact senior colleagues are too frightened to challenge.

Management style Minor errors regarded as major issues and headteacher like behaviour in front of colleagues. This would include being ‘marched off’ to enhance the drama.

Favouritism Excluding employees from workplace events, and giving them difficult assignments. Such behaviour prevents an employee being able to show their true ability.

Nature of work Some workplaces are high pressure environments such as restaurants. It may be likely that aggressive behaviour is the norm.

Working long hours Increasingly employees are working longer hours and if this not done it is seen as a lack of ambition from an employee.

Bullying behaviour can lead to claims of discrimination, or constructive/ unfair dismissal.

For further advice please contact us at Atom HR. Ivan Spibey – Atom HR 0116 212 1153/07712 115 663 ivan@atomhrconsulting.com 100 | NICHE

The latest Office for National Statistics show 114,720 divorces were granted in 2013 which is a drop of nearly 3% from 2012.

However, the number of over 50’s divorces increased by nearly 3%.

Divorces in this age bracket are commonly referred to as the ‘Silver Separators’ or the ‘Silver Splitters’.

There are many reasons for this increase, for example with life expectancy rates rising, those in miserable marriages may not wish to spend another 20 years in their unhappy relationship. Other reasons could be the ‘empty nest syndrome’ where older children leave the family home and tensions which may have previously been put to one side for the sake of the children come to the fore.

The latest statistics also highlight the cohabitation revolution where more couples are choosing to live together without getting married which is a clear reflection of the changing social attitudes towards cohabitation. Many co-habitants still mistakenly believe that if they live with their partner for a certain length of time, they will acquire rights akin to a spouse. Therefore, if you are a co-habitant looking to find out what your actual legal rights are or whether you are a silver splitter looking to find the right solicitor to guide you through the daunting divorce process, we at Glynis Wright & Co have several specialist family lawyers on hand to assist. www.glyniswright.co.uk 0116 238 5680

The current rate of relief for qualifying expenditure is 230% for small and medium enterprises, so for £1,000 of relevant expenditure (including wage costs), £2,300 of tax relief is available.

There is every chance you may qualify for relief too if you: ♦ Employ engineers, scientists or IT personnel ♦ Undertake engineering or software design or feasibility studies for others or yourself ♦Develop (create or improve) products, processes, materials, devices, services or systems for others or yourself Remember, whatever your company is developing, it does not have to be something new or innovative.

R&D tax relief applies equally to product, process and systematic improvements.

The key consideration is that the solution is not readily deducible.

Importantly, success is not required!

If you would like to explore this further please contact me to arrange for one of our R&D tax relief specialists to speak with you.

www.torrwaterfield.co.uk 0800 652 1614

E R PA RT N

E

AT I

ST

X TA

S

HIP

THE

L IL

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M

Talk Business

ON

A SPECI

LI

“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

Important Business News - Further Changes to Entrepreneurs’ Relief As clients, colleagues and regular readers of this column will know, changes to Entrepreneurs’ Relief (ER), and the implications for joint ventures and partnerships, have been among my biggest concerns when considering the wider impact of the Finance Act 2015.

New measures contained in the Act will, in my view, restrict the availability of this relief, restricting business growth. It is thought that the Government has “rushed through” these changes, allowing no time for thorough consultation.

However there may be some welcome revisions to the changes following a meeting between senior tax advisers, myself included, and HM Revenue & Customs in London, which was hosted by CIOT, the Chartered Institute of Taxation.

My role here, as a member of both CIOT and of the Tax Faculty of the Institute of Charted Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) was to help put forward a commercial business view.

The meeting gave me, and my fellow tax professionals, an ideal opportunity to put our concerns directly to HMRC and the Treasury, and I’m very pleased to say that considerable progress was made in several key areas.

Details of the complex issues we discussed around joint ventures and partnerships – and our agreed plans of action – can be found on The Miller Partnership’s website at www.themillerpartnership.com.

We will be sure to keep you apprised of further developments but, in the meantime, if you are concerned about the impact of changes to Entrepreneurs’ Relief on your business and would like in-depth expert advice or a quick chat to set your mind at ease on this matter, please contact me.

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: 07802 197 269 The Miller Partnership 5 Museum Square, Leicester LE1 6UF

www.themillerpartnership.com pete.miller@themillerpartnership.com NICHE | 101

Outsource the

Worry to Save you Money

As a business owner, wouldn’t it be beneficial to have someone to take care of all those HR issues?

Whether serious or mundane, having your HR matters looked after by experts gives you the freedom to focus on running and growing your business. HR outsourcing lets you take a fresh approach and is definitely proving to be the way of the future with many advantages to the employer.

One of which, without doubt, is the cost. HR outsourcing is a cost effective way to save money and with the right HR business partners on your side, you can reduce your costs considerably whilst improving your HR performance.

Testimonials Qdos Consulting are experts when it comes to HR outsourcing. They have really thought of everything when it comes to their HR Services. Recognising that all businesses have different needs and budgets, Qdos give you the tools to cherry pick their services based on what your business really needs help with.

Employment law can be very complex and quite intimidating to businesses, particularly small businesses who do not have the need or budget for a dedicated HR member of staff. Qdos solve this problem by providing human resource business partners who work in partnership with you. They take the time to listen and get to know all about your business and how it works, leaving them better placed to implement compliant systems that will protect you should something go wrong. They also offer additional support to firms with in-house HR employees, who might need extra support with a complex issue or special project.

Qdos’ HR service portfolio is extensive and covers many areas including consultancy, outsourcing, contracts and handbooks, disciplinary support, recruitment support, training and much more.

Clients can access support around the clock providing peace of mind in what can be the most stressful of times.

Start your

They have a raft of testimonials on their website from satisfied clients, further representing the excellent quality of service they endeavour to provide, here’s a snapshot from one of the many happy customers: “Since signing up to Qdos we definitely feel more secure as a business. Initially we established what we thought were the main areas that needed to be dealt with within our organisation, Qdos came into the business to assist with these however, they have without doubt gone above and beyond the service we signed up for, which made outsourcing our HR to them an easy decision to make.

We are delighted with the way in which Qdos have supported us, you really do get the feeling that Qdos actually care about your business and the people who work in it which makes working with them an absolute pleasure.

Our HR strategy and function is now aligned to our business objectives, which has improved our overall business performance.

I cannot recommend Qdos and their team enough!”

Marcus McGee, Managing Director, Cloudy2Clear UK Limited

HR Journey today

Often businesses can be misinformed about employment law and believe in outdated or incorrect information. There are a number of myths about the law which employers can make the mistake in trusting, this can sometimes lead to costly Tribunal cases which could be avoided altogether if the proper expert advice had been sought from the start. It really does pay to engage with a professional HR outsourcing company that can become your armoury in the complex world of employment law and HR. So why choose Qdos? Their staff believe in the Qdos brand and what it stands for, this shows in their passion for the service they provide, and their continuing effort to progress and develop their individual skills for the benefit of their clients.

Now a group of seven companies, the Qdos Group can also provide interlinked services such as legal services, insurance broker services and contractor services. It is this unique strength that sets Qdos apart from competitors.

If you’d like to strive to improve your business strategy and know that your business is HR compliant with experts taking care of your HR issues, give HR outsourcing a go and call the Qdos team.

01455 852028 info@qdosconsulting.com

www.qdoshr.com

What

does the next 365 days

look like for you?

Eileen Richards, the drive behind ER Recruitment, spoke to us about the importance of planning ahead in business and how she’s prepared her own company for the coming year

As each New Year approaches, it’s an important time to reflect on the previous one. Looking at your aspirations for the coming year can be more beneficial than you know.

end of 2016? ER Recruitment have already met as a team and broken our objectives down to twelve key chapters. Some of our key objectives include;

Whether you are an employer or employee, planning the year ahead is crucial. The current market is buoyant and with an increase of job opportunities, the market is becoming more candidate driven and potential employees are taking the time to research what makes a business an ‘employer of choice’ in order to attract the best people.

Staff Training & Development On-going development and training is vital! Here at ER Recruitment, each member of staff has a Personal Development Plan ready for 2016.

Whilst we need to achieve our business goals, it is important that everyone has the skills to do the job and more importantly, enjoys coming to work.

Staff retention, development and training are key within any organisation. When we meet candidates at interview, one of the most valued aspects of a career opportunity is to be trained and developed within an organisation.

People rarely leave a business for more money; succession planning can avoid some of your best employees leaving you.

Branding Your branding should be consistent, easily recognisable and set you apart from the competition. It creates a clear understanding for your staff about your promise to your customers. Going into our third year, we’ve looked at our brand and the message we send to the business community. Our existing website is currently under construction and will be re-launched in January. This will just be the start of the clear message we are

With 365 days ahead, what do you want your story to look like at the 104 | NICHE

Accountancy & Finance

As a business, we are passionate about connecting people, businesses and opportunities. sending to the market. Working with marketing specialists, Mocha Marketing, has been really inspiring.

Staff Recruitment We are looking to double our headcount in 2016. Specialising in various sectors, we only want to attract the best Recruitment Specialists within the market. We already offer one of the best bonus schemes; however, we are looking at our overall benefits package. People are motivated by different things; one high on the list is the day’s holiday given.

Client Consultancy We have a library of workshops that we offer to our clients. This includes interview training, succession planning and recruitment methods.

Due to demand, we will continue to develop these facilities to best suit our clients’ needs in a way that will produce the best results possible.

Candidates Some of our candidates haven’t been for an interview in a long time, so due to popular demand we are continuing with our Interview work-shops for our candidates. This includes where to look for a job, preparing your CV and Interview techniques.

CSR We are very aware of our Corporate Social Responsibility and want to use our status to support and sponsor

many local charities in Leicester. Our chosen charities are Hope Against Cancer and Wooden Spoon. As a Trustee for Hope Against Cancer, we will be working closely with Pick Everard on the benefits of CSR to companies and forming a business group. Plans are currently in progress and will be communicated this February so look out for the press!

Partnerships As a business, we are passionate about connecting people, businesses and opportunities. We have formed some really good partnerships where our services really complement each other. As a growing business, we appreciate that we need to pay for certain services as we are not experts in every field. Our speciality is recruitment so outsourcing things like our marketing and HR support have proven to be really successful.

Outsourcing has saved us time and money, which has in turn, allowed us to enhance and improve the multi professional recruitment services that we are experts in. We will also continue to work with NICHE as the feedback on our articles so far has been very positive.

Customer Service & Sales

Executive Search & Selection

Human Resources

Insurance & Financial Services

Legal

Where do you want your business to be by the end of 2016? It may seem far off now but as you read this, your story is already taking place.

Make it happen. Call ER Recruitment today for more advice.

Office (inc Marketing)

0116 254 9710 www.eileenrichards.co.uk Twitter: @ERRECRUITMENT1 NICHE | 93

The changing landscape of HR The 2008 recession forced many changes throughout businesses, many have had a long lasting impact, none more so than the changing approach that employers now take to resource planning, recruitment and retention.

Since the economic recovery, employers are applying caution when making a decision to add/ replace resource and are being more creative with their HR practices. At Qdos Consulting, we are seeing a more flexible method to staffing models, a more proactive approach to benchmarking and a more competitive attitude to recruitment generally.

We are seeing that employers now fully understand that the decision to recruit is an investment and as such want a return on the investment. Employers are applying comprehensive recruitment strategies designed to ensure that the best possible talent is selected in accordance with their budget.

We still have challenges ahead; protecting that recruitment investment long term is key. The recruitment market is changing and good quality employees are looking for their next move. So the next step is to review your retention strategy, identify your “A players”, and figure out how you are going to keep them engaged to your business.

This is an extract from our latest QView, to download the full article, please visit our website on www. qdoshr.com. For assistance with any HR challenge, including understanding how outsourcing your HR can benefit your business, 01455 852 028. www.qdoshr.com

106 | NICHE

How to reduce sick days in the workplace

Success means knowing when to ask for help

Every year 27.3 million working days are lost due to work-related illness and workplace injury equating to an estimated cost of £14.3 billion on injuries and ill health (HSE.org.uk).

A new year often prompts a time for reflection and questions. Our lives are so busy, we become swamped in the everyday detail of stuff and it is all too easy to lose sight of what is important, how we want to lead our lives and to live in and enjoy the now. So at the start of a new year we tend to decide to focus on the things we’ve been stalling on or putting off for a while, then we often lose our way or lose sight of those changes we’ve promised ourselves, resulting in feeling down and exasperated with ourselves.

Want to know how to reduce that cost? The most common cause of days off is slips, trips and falls.

Fortunately there is a lot you can do. As well as the obvious clear routes and general tidiness, it’s worth looking at the layout and maintenance of a building, its lights, doors and floors. Appropriate clothing also plays an important part.

The second most common reason for time off work is caused by manual handling. Again, there is a lot that can be done: educating your people on how their body works, lifting safely and avoiding twisting or lifting when they are cold or at rest physiologically.

The third most common cause of time off is stress. What to do?

Address six key areas; Work demands keep them realistic Control over work give individuals control and influence, where practical Support build an encouraging culture especially with line managers Relationships deal with unacceptable behaviour Roles ensure people understand their role Change communicate, consult and manage At Greens Consultancy Services we offer practical, sensible advice on saving money, time and hassle as well as achieving compliance and avoiding and mitigating against a claim for compensation.

0116 216 9224 www.greensconsultancy.co.uk

So, if you want to succeed or be successful at something, what stops you asking for the support and help you need to maximise your chances of success?

You are the expert on you and your field, and know the arenas you are required to master for success.

Your existing skills, knowledge and capabilities will be hidden without the ability to know when to ask for help and support to build and develop. We are not all experts in everything so we ask for the relevant help i.e. mechanics for our cars, insurance brokers for our insurance, doctors for medical help.

So what stops you asking for help with your performance to succeed?

Our focus and expertise lie in maximising your ability to be successful, one phone call will be the difference between the what if and the when.

“Action is the foundational key to all success.” Pablo Picasso Call us now and find out how we will help you succeed.

Vicky Bailey 07786 936 625 www.delphinustmc.co.uk

Talk Business

The

Commercial Insurance Brokers

FOR YOU

Brooksure A5:Layout 1 08/09/2015 16:14 Page 1

I N S U R A N C E

Whether your business is in retail, construction, manufacturing, property or fleets, Brooksure’s niche schemes and packages provide competitive business quotes to get the right policy for you A survey conducted by Riskheads. org aimed to find out what mattered most to consumers when purchasing insurance. Cost, ease, speed, peace of mind that everything is covered and security of personal data came out on top.

to insurers but you don’t know until you have to make a claim.”

Andrew finds it interesting getting to know his clients and collating all necessary information in order to create bespoke packages for clients individual business needs.

Insurance brokers like Brooksure actually offer a lower cost compared to going to insurers direct. This is because insurance companies are taking a lower risk by working with professionally trained brokers.

Brooksure started business in 1988 and quickly saw enquiries coming in after word spread about Andrew and his team’s speedy service and straightforward advice.

I N S U R A N C E

Brooksure Director and Founder, Andrew Shore said: “There are so many things to consider about your policy and you can often forget to mention important details such as turnover, wages or claims. It can be more complex than you realise.”

A Riskhead test proved that almost all consumers preferred the personal service of dealing with a broker than a direct website.

Andrew chooses to meet with his clients in order to get to know them personally and determine exactly what it is that they require from their policy.

Working meticulously with his clients, he likes to fact find and arrange and adjust policy requirements to offer them the peace of mind that they will be covered in all situations.

He explained, “You think you’re doing it right when you go direct

“I don’t believe in cold calling. I like to give a personalised solution to companies who are looking for the right insurance to suit their needs.”

The company quickly expanded and over their 20 years in business have become one of the top independent insurance brokers in the UK. Brooksure takes away the arduous task of reporting a claim as they handle all claims in house allowing clients to continue their daily work with the knowledge that their claim is being taken care of professionally.

For Commercial Insurance Brokers & Insurance Policies in Leicestershire, Warwickshire and West Midlands & UK. Make Brooksure Insurance your first choice.

Coventry 02476 499 000 Solihull 0121 693 8740 www.brooksureinsurance.co.uk info@brooksureinsurance.co.uk NICHE | 107

Free Lightbulbs for Life!

Fancy never having to buy a light-bulb ever again?

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!

A professional team of fitters replace your bulbs quickly and efficiently, totally free of charge. The latest state of the art LED bulbs are brighter, available in dimmable and switch on immediately.

Plus, there is a free replacement service, just contact Utility Warehouse and they will replace bulbs with another free of charge!

Named by Which? as one of the best energy suppliers for the last six years running, the unique discount club saves every customer money and stress by combining all bills into one award winning statement.

As well as this you get access to a host of exclusive savings through cash back from over 2,000 UK retailers including: M&S, Boots and eBay to name a few!

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 or call for a free informal consultation.

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Turn it on and off again?

If you think that “Tablets are for swallowing, Apples are only found in a fruit bowl, and the Cloud is when the weathers bad,” then we’re definitely going to change your view and make our solutions work for you.

We’ve all heard of the typical I.T. fix known as ‘Have you tried to turn it off & on again?’ Haven’t we? Well, if this sounds like the skill set of your I.T. Support team (a.k.a. the only person in the office who knows what a modem is), then we are the people to help you.

There is no one solution that works for all, and we work with you to find out exactly what your business needs. We create an I.T. system which will work for you.

We will never sell an I.T. System if it doesn’t benefit you and your business. Above all, we believe that your I.T. system should make your life easier and certainly not more complicated.

So, if you struggle with things like how to change your password or your business is expanding and you need to set up new users, then Kazzoo have the simple (and the less simple) solutions covered so that you can get on with the important things like running your business!

Contact us to discover how we can help you and your business thrive.

www.kazzoo.com 0844 372 9893 info@kazzoo.com

Creating an App the Swipe & Tap way It starts with a meeting. We listen to a client’s app idea or business issue and learn about their goals and expectations.

For app ideas that already exist, we help clients find an app that fits their purpose. Other times we fine tune an idea so it’s unique, appealing to users and will have the best impact.

As soon as we have a solid idea, identified target users and problems the app will solve, we create a visual mock-up to visualise the app. We advise clients to print these out and pretend to use them on paper as if it was an app! This approach identifies complications with the design early on.

The fun then starts (well, for us) and we put together a development timeline and get developing! During this phase the client would receive beta versions at least once a week so they can see the progression and provide feedback during the development cycle.

We introduced agile development methodology to Swipe & Tap in 2014 and it really helps to identify problems or misunderstandings much quicker than traditional development cycles where the client only sees the app at the end of process.

Once complete, beta versions are sent to an extended audience to gather feedback. We then submit to the relevant app stores seeing the finished product go live!

0116 268 8722 www.swipeandtap.co.uk

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Visit the website for more information and to start your 30 day free trial at greenprint.primoit.co.uk Email: greenprint@primoit.co.uk PrimoIT

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SAVINGS! Costco Wholesale is a membership warehouse club, dedicated to bringing our members quality goods and services at the lowest possible prices.

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Great space is great for business s e pb ffic o

Replacing your office furniture can be a daunting task, working out what fits where, and putting it all together. PBS Office can fully manage the whole process, while you carry on with managing your business.

Established for over 30 years, PBS eps version are best placed to recommend, supply and install all types of office furniture. They offer a free of charge Space Plan, whereby they call out to visit your office and take the time to listen to your furniture needs. Taking all the relevant measurements, and numbers of desks, chairs and shelving, they will then produce a quotation, bespoke to your office space. With their many years’ experience, they know all about complying with the law, in terms of the correct positioning of desks in relation to fire exits, and will manage the process from start to finish.

Working closely with HR staff and facilities managers, their Workstation Assessment offering is included in their free Space Plan.

This involves working with employees struggling with back pain by monitoring their posture and talking about the pain they’re experiencing to find the perfect office chair to help relieve discomfort.

This has proved invaluable to their clients who tell them that increased

productivity has been noted since this issue has been addressed.

Also providing audio visual presentation equipment, they really do offer everything a business needs in an office furniture provider.

Contact Ron Edwards 01664 482 480 www.pbsoffice.co.uk ron@pbsoffice.co.uk

They really understand what businesses need from an office furniture provider, and not only do they supply the furniture but they deliver it and assemble it for free.

They can also design and install any office partitioning that you may also require.

NICHE | 111

New Year, New Plans

Happy New Year

Giving back

So 2016 is here. A time for making resolutions and forging plans for the year ahead. How many of you stuck to last year’s resolutions?

Was 2015 successful for you?

I sincerely hope that 2016 delivers all that you’re planning for.

Regardless of CSR objectives in your plan, have you considered why charity partnerships could support your goals? Some businesses view working with a charity as all give but actually, the benefits are usually reciprocated.

You just might not realise it.

If you feel you could have achieved more, and are already resolving to ensure you don’t do the same in 2016, then maybe now is the time to have a look at the design of your company branding. Have you had the same logo for years?

Are the colours you use lacking in vibrancy? Does your message really stand out from the crowd?

We can help. We will spend time and listen to you, learn about your business, understand your customers and market place. We will offer free advice on how best to enhance your existing branding, or if you fancy something new for the New Year, we can create something fresh and up to date for you too.

We are passionate about utilising good design to enhance your company image. To us, design is the cornerstone of how your brand is perceived and we have been creating engaging designs for our clients for over 15 years. We are a small team, but we are experts in our field and the passion for creating good design runs through us all.

So let us help you make 2016 the year that you really get noticed.

Call us today.

0116 259 9955 inspire@soarvalleypress.co.uk

As a nosy PRO I can’t help but wonder what 2016 will hold for you. Are you clear on what your plans are for this year and how you will bring them to reality?

I really don’t mean to be rude asking these questions, but in over 22 years of working in and/ or running marcomms and PR agencies I’ve noticed that there are two very distinct categories of clients – those who absolutely know where they are heading and how they will try and achieve their ambitions, and those who really don’t have a target or plan at all.

How you run your organisation is absolutely up to you but may I ask just one thing? If right now you are in the second group please don’t outsource (or recruit) someone to do your PR for you.

Why? Because, in my opinion, you only get a result that will please you if you absolutely know where you’re going and are crystal clear on what part PR can play to help you get there.

Without a clear set of Campaign Objectives your PR will be, at best, flabby and ill directed and at worst costly and a big old flop.

As a business currently working with charities, I often think about people who are missing a trick by keeping their charity blinkers on.

Here are 5 reasons why you should consider partnering up: ♦ Define corporate ID - working with a charity presents you as an ethical and trustworthy business. ♦ Benefit public relations - whilst you shouldn’t abuse partnerships to gain PR exposure, a natural benefit will occur. ♦ Employee relations - By getting the team involved, you allow time to be ‘given back’ - guaranteed feel-good factor! ♦ Team building - When fundraising together, employees can work with departments and environments outside of their direct work groups. ♦ Networking - partnering with the right charity for your business can open up many networking opportunities.

If you’re clear on your objectives PR will deliver. If you aren’t….

PR most likely won’t.

So you see, charity partnerships shouldn’t be any different to partnering with a business, the benefits should be entirely mutual and with a little feel good factor along the way as a bonus.

0150 981 3913 www.rdz-pr.co.uk

www.mocha-marketing.co.uk hello@mocha-marketing.co.uk

In need of an I.T specialist...?

Tailored solutions for all - let’s talk 0844 372 9893 www.kazzoo.com 112 | NICHE

MARKETING PR SOCIAL MEDIA EVENTS

Are you looking for any agency to act as your marketing department? ...

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.

... Or some consultancy to get you going?

How are we different?

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!)

Our experience? Lots!

Whatever you need, we’re here for you

Leisure, hospitality and tourism, sport, education, business services, retail and more...

Contact us for a cuppa! hello@mocha‐marketing.co.uk

www.mocha‐marketing.co.uk

Mocha Marketing

@Mocha_Marketing

M A R K E T I N G

P R

S O C I A L

M E D I A

E V E N T S NICHE| |101 25 NICHE

Finding the right words How to make your business bulletproof Grammar guru Jenny Broad tells us how she can help companies with their documents and how she plans to drive her own business forward in 2016.

From your logo to your language, how your business comes across to your clients is essential in creating a professional, trustworthy brand image.

Jenny believes consistency is key to constructing credibility in the marketing of your business, “I find that some businesses haven’t really thought about consistency until I point out how important it is,” says the owner of JLB Proofreading.

Companies with good marketing strategies have strict house styles that are adhered to in every aspect of their advertising. Jenny corrects a company’s documents, eliminating mistakes and creating uniformity whilst using a variety of platforms including Microsoft Word, Adobe Acrobat pdf files, PowerPoint and Excel.

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Looking not only for spelling, punctuation and grammatical errors but also for inconsistency in layout, typography and the overuse of specific words; the thorough proofreader ensures the whole marketing brand is solid across all of a business’s documents, subtly building brand identity and professionalism.

“People can get offended about errors in their spelling and grammar but I understand that you can check your own documents over and over but become ‘blind’ to mistakes. You often need some outside help,” she

“A personal expert eye is far more reliable than just using computer tools” advised. “A personal expert eye is far more reliable than just using computer tools.”

With a degree in Modern History with Economics and a background in account management for an independent financial adviser, Jenny has many years of experience working to detailed house styles.

Choosing the old-fashioned inkwell for her own company logo suggests

formal professionalism with a back-to-basics approach.

“Modern communication neglects good grammar and spelling; I wanted my symbol to show I am still old fashioned with mine!”

To drive her own business forward, Jenny would like to form relationships with a core group of regular clients and be able to offer more services to them. Completing further courses, she hopes to be able to edit and reword text and start offering a copywriting service in the new year.

She is also in the process of setting up a regular blog to offer some tips and advice on grammar and is using social media to get her proofreading knowledge out there, helping other businesses and building her client base throughout 2016.

Discover how JLB Proofreading can help you.

www.jlbproofreading.co.uk 07815 181 802

DESIGN + PRINT

Soar Valley Press

Happy New Year!

New year, new start, new design?

Talk to our friendly team and we can help make 2016 the year your business gets noticed!

WILL

ROSIE

DAVE

ANNA

CHRIS

KATIE

0116 259 9955 www.soarvalleypress.co.uk | inspire@soarvalleypress.co.uk NICHE | 25

bringing together

Style and Substance with USB Own Logo

Today in business, education and even our personal lives we are driven by data.

USBs aren’t new but USB Own Logo is certainly unique. Primo IT have supplied corporate and education clients with IT equipment since 2000. Recognising the large potential of these small devices, they added USB Own Logo to their range of solutions and has become one of the fastest growing product ranges for Primo IT. Supplying Grade A chips from well-known manufacturers, clients are guaranteed cutting edge technology but, with a difference!

USB Own Logo supplies an array of customisable USBs from the classic rectangular retractable drive to wooden drives, bespoke shapes and even drives which double up as bracelets, credit cards or pens.

Primo IT also jazz up Power Banks.

They’re one of the latest gadgets to hit the promotional market, mainly used for charging phones or small electronic devices. Having extra charge on the move is high on the agenda of many people these days and branding a power bank with your logo will get your brand name out there.

NEWS FLASH

Gone are the days where functional had lost its funk; USB Own Logo take your practical requirements and turn them into something fun, stylish and eye catching. Now your data storage device is a piece of marketing collateral, a conversation starter.

USB Own Logo clients benefit from the extensive product range, personalisation options and the market leading customer service Primo IT have become accustomed to. From your initial enquiry you will be supported with a dedicated Account Manager backed by an experienced USB team to help you find the perfect design for your business. www.primoit.co.uk

When you’re next at an event, get your business seen! Show your creative side or even use them to send out your sales pitch in a format guaranteed to get you noticed.

Unleash your business’ potential, contact the USB Own Logo team today. www.usbownlogo.co.uk usb@primoit.co.uk 0800 0567 787

Facebook: PrimoIT

What our customers say...

“These USB sticks are a great tool for our Sales Force and customers prefer them to hard copy catalogues. Primo IT prompt efficient and friendly, a pleasure to deal with, I thoroughly recommend them.”

Nick - Villeroy & Boch

USB Own Logo are offering customers a fabulous New Year saving with 100 x 4GB Own Logo USB’s for £2.40 per unit (plus VAT). Start your 2016 with style, substance and an upturn in sales!? Available on classic series USBs only and valid on orders placed before 29th February 2016.

“We needed custom made bespoke USBs in the shape of a ship to enable us to stand out within our sector and set Primo IT a challenge to produce it. We were delighted with the results and would have no hesitation in recommending their services.” John - Grange Shipping

Twitter: @PrimoIT_co_uk

“I just wanted to say a big thank you to Primo IT for their excellent customer service that they provided throughout the process of getting our USB sticks to the final product. It is always a pleasure to deal with a company that takes pride in providing a first class service.”

Samantha - Diurnal

Power Bank

Bundle Offer

Power Banks are one of the latest gadgets to hit the promotional market, mainly used for charging phones or small electronic devices.

Have your logo added to raise brand awareness.

Only

£4.50 per unit + VAT

Bundle Offer Price

100 x 2200MHA Power Bank with your logo displayed in a clear plastic presentation box.

Valid on orders placed before 29th February 2016

Why not showcase your company in a unique way, by using your own USB flash drives.

USB Own Logo Offer 100 x 4GB Own Logo USB £7.50 + VAT Delivery Classic Series Only

£2.50 per unit + VAT

We can also upload any information you wish to hand out, such as catalogues and product information, free of charge.

Valid on orders placed before 29th February 2016

For more information please contact the USB Own Logo team on

0800 0567 787 or email usb@primoit.co.uk www.usbownlogo.co.uk

NICHE | 95

What Are Your Plans for 2016? called Rachel Hargrave Consulting, which Arriving at RDZ PR is like coming home.

Talking to Rachel for any length of time, will be marketed to national and multiThe office is busy … but oddly homely it becomes clear that her less than national corporates as providing the full with original artwork on the walls, the usual attire and (currently) brown and ‘marcomms’ offer, rather than ‘just’ PR. I kettle permanently boiling, the radio blue hair hasn’t put off companies and want to double the turnover of RDZ PR and / or BBC News on and sofas dotted organisations of all shapes and sizes from by working with more East Midlands around the open plan space rather than working with her. “Over the years I’ve been based companies. We have some fabulous your ordinary office furniture. When hugely privileged to work with companies locally and regionally and they asked about it Rachel, founder some amazing people and really don’t need to go to London, Leeds and Director of RDZ PR clients and that continues “I know that when or Birmingham to get the PR support they says, “Ah! Well I’m all for to this day.” Says Rachel I’m comfortable and want and need. Personally I also specialise comfortable and relaxed.

– or Rach to her friends in crisis communications and there aren’t I know that when I’m and clients. relaxed that’s when I many of us locally, or regionally who do comfortable and relaxed BP, Canon Europe, work best.” that, so I want to make sure that more that’s when I work best.”

Honda Motor Europe, companies know they have a world-class Bentley, Mars Group, TNT, specialist right here on their doorstep.

Castrol, Arts Council England – That probably explains Rachel’s East Midlands, the NHS, as well as local less than standard ‘work wear’. She sighs companies including Serjeants, The Miller and then grins, “The jeans and hoodie “Then there’s the book that I’m writing Partnership, MAE, Charity Link, Lawsoncombo? I know. I still get a few comments with a bunch of fantastic contributors West Commercial, Rowley’s, DMC Creative about it. I do suit up when absolutely including Jenny Cross Editor of Niche World, Alex’s Wish, Ellipse Energy, Regional necessary but if wearing a suit is essential magazine, Katie Kirk a specialist in Recruitment Services, The to a client working with us then they need creativity and storytelling, Vicky Lead Works, Empire to know sooner rather than later that that’s Bailey of Delphinus TMC who’s Corporate Finance … not me. I fully appreciate that as an agency talking about how to access the to name just a few. we aren’t going to suit everyone but I’m “It’s going to be a stories that we all have inside OK with that. At the absolute heart of RDZ HUGE year for us” us but are often too modest to is a very simple desire to do great work talk about, and Richard Pepper So what are Rach’s for great clients and have a great work-life who is a phenomenal and UK plans for 2016? Her balance. I can’t achieve that if I’m getting acknowledged expert in brand.

The eyes light up. “It’s going to side tracked all the time by pretending to book is called ‘PR Bites’ and will launch on be a person I’m not or an agency be a HUGE year for us. Professionally I’m International Women’s Day in March. we’re not.” launching a sister company to RDZ PR 118 | NICHE

Talk Business

I’ve been asked to speak at an event locally that’s being organised by my pal Sue Crooks, so I suggested launching the book there and Sue said yes.

Interest on the amount invested will then be handed out to charities who apply for grants from the Hope Fund; charities working in our community. Of course the Fund has to reach a certain amount before the interest accruing is “Then personally I’m back to the mountains with “To help prep me for really worth donating but I hope to raise £250,000 an attempt on Elbrus the mountains I’m also in Russia in August doing the Yorkshire Three between 2016 and 2020 so eventually it should and Aconcagua in Peak Challenge in aid of generate some good Argentina in December, Alex’s Wish.” income for some awesome all leading up to an causes right here in Leicester, attempt on Denali in Alaska Leicestershire and Rutland.” in 2017 and, ultimately Everest in 2020. Each mountain has its own characteristics but Aconcagua and Denali I sit back and watch Rach ditz off to make are beasts of mountains and so Elain more coffee. When she comes back she Crewe of Train4Life is training me to within asks if there is anything else I want to an inch of my life right now! I’m training know. No, I say, I think that’s enough for four times a week with her and then once now. Don’t you? She sits back and smiles, on my own either running or cycling.

“I think so … for now” and winks at me.

To help prep me for the mountains I’m also doing the Yorkshire Three Peak Challenge with Elain and 13 of her other clients in aid of Alex’s Wish in March, cycling London to Paris in July – also for Alex’s Wish and have, apparently, said I’ll run the Leicester Marathon with good chums Jacqui Dean of Virtual Assistance and Kate Ramsey of Sileby Boat Yard.”

Phew! Anything else?

“No, only Team Dog.” Team who? “My four dogs – they keep me on my toes and also keep me company and of course two of them are named in RDZ! My accountant asked me what I wanted to call the agency when I was setting her up and I was just taking Dyson and Zoe out for their walks.

Dyson doesn’t like to be kept waiting and so pawed the door whilst I was talking to Tom Simpson from Torr Waterfield. I looked down and said to Tom call her RDZ PR – Rachel, Dyson, Zoe.” I ask how the other two dogs feel about this obvious favouritism. I’m joking of course but Rach takes me seriously … or does she? She’s known for her wicked sense of very dry humour. “Well Hope has the Hope Fund named after her and ‘PR Bites’ will be dedicated to Robi so everyone will have something named after them.”

Wait. The Hope Fund. What’s that? “Oh. So many people were asking me about whether I was fundraising when I was doing my mountain attempts that I decided to set up a Fund with the Leicestershire and Rutland Community Foundation. All monies raised will sit in a Fund that they will look after for me.

RDZ PR Ltd, 3 Barrow Road, Sileby, Leicestershire, LE12 7LW 01509 813 913 www.rdz-pr.co.uk NICHE | 119

Worldwide Business Frrom the bed From F bedroom rroom of a ter terraced rra house in Leicester, an enterprise wa was as launched that has since collaborated r with high gh profile events and and even the prestigious r Chelsea Ch h Flower Show.

Paul Rowlett, Managing Director of EverythingBranded and passionate business man decided to migrate his experience from selling Google advertising to the print industry and finally took the plunge launching his online printing business in 2010.

EverythingBranded.co.uk is the home of bespoke promotional products and corporate gifts and have supplied everything from scented pens to golfing umbrellas, “That really is how random it gets,” Paul laughed. They’ll print on anything!

Beginning his new endeavour on his own with just £2000 and a grant from the now dissolved, Business link who matched his savings, Paul has built the company up to secure BPMA accreditation and forecast combined turnover in excess of £3m for 2015-2016.

96 | NICHE

They have secured over 10,000 processed orders with a 38% re-order rate. Sales of over 250,000 units a month come from wristbands and over three million pens are sold every year!

“Based on our sales figures, we are also now a top 50 distributor in the UK which is something we are most proud of as our team have worked so hard over the last 5 and abit years.’’

great relationships with less confusion. ‘’Having this approach has really helped give our clients added value and a more personal touch with some of our clients now becoming friends as well as customers.’’ Paul said.

So how is it that Paul was able to create such a success from such small beginnings? Paul told us five components that we believe has made EverythingBranded what it is today.

Added Value We always try to give added value where we can, one area of this is with our own in house design team.

We will not only provide free visuals but also if needed a totally free basic logo creation service this especially helps our smaller sized clients that may want to re brand and can save not hundreds but thousands of pounds in some cases.

Service Every prospective client is assigned their own experienced account manager from word go building

Particularity Employing only the most trusted and experienced individuals has made for a feel-good vibe and

keep loyalty high giving your company sustainability.” averages and also incentivise not just sales target but also good service mentions.”

can-do attitude! Pauls wife joined the team in 2013, his best man and Sales Manager, James was an ex Branch Manager of Halifax and Accounts Manager, Amy has been a friend since the age of eight.

“We really are like a family business. I’d say about 14 out of 18 of us are actually family or friends, which means we are honest with each other, which goes down to the customer level.”

Luck Luck has played its part in Paul’s career but one event helped grow invest in further online updates.

“The Jubilee was a lucky turning point for us. This is a totally true story,” Paul laughed, “The Jubilee came along and we had a phone call from the Leicester City Council

asking for some promotional mugs.

We donated them to Lady Gretton, Lord Lieutenant, and she luckily published us on the Leicester City Council website. We quickly became the go to company for every school in Leicester and we doubled turnover in just four weeks!

It changed our whole business.”

Charity “Today I’m meeting with Soft Touch Arts. We’re working on a creative project to highlight what we do.

“Pens make up for about 30% of our business, so I came up with an idea to get the kids involved and get them building a sculpture out of pens.”

Working closely with charities h harities such as Wishes 4 Kids and S Soft oft Touch T Arts, Paul describes as humbling and truly rewarding.

Paul invites nvites you to visit their show room, head down to: Charles Alexander Distribution Ltd Unit 5, Forest Business Park Oswin Road Leicester LE3 1HR United Kingdom www.everythingbranded.co.uk www.promotionalpensworld.co.uk www.topwristbands.co.uk

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Your

BUSINESSES development Successful businesses invest in their people – we take a look at how developing the skills of your employees will drive your business forward.

Personal development coach, Christopher Clark, suggests that successful employers need to be mindful of the development needs of their staff. He says, “It’s not a one off activity; it’s a philosophy that underpins that company’s whole approach to their business.”

Labour Market Statistics show that 30.54 million people were in work during 2014 and over 50 per cent of those were considering moving jobs (ONS June, 2014).

As the director and founder of Training and Development, Christopher believes that investing in your employee’s development can be the deciding factor between retaining or losing staff members.

“Often when people leave and complete their exit interview, one of the first questions is ‘why are you leaving?’ However, the question I would want to ask is ‘What was it that made you decide to look for another job and buy Guardian on Saturday or log-on to the Monster website?’” The answer, he says, can be revealing and provide valuable feedback to that employer.

The dedicated professional recalled a conversation he had heard between a couple discussing how to choose their first jobs, “they were making the decision not based on what they were going to earn but what development opportunities were available with employers who will help achieve their potential.”

124 | NICHE

During financial hardships, employee training is often the first expense to be cut by business owners.

Training and Development is all about personal growth of individuals and teams. The thirteen year old company helps managers to understand what makes their team members tick in order to get the best from them and then provides development opportunities to help them achieve that.

During financial hardships, employee training is often the first expense to be cut by business owners. A common misconception is that money and time spent on expensive training is a waste as employees will take their new established skills elsewhere.

Christopher has found that, actually, the reverse is true. It is when a company supports the personal progression of its employees that a sense of respect and appreciation is kindled and individuals will continue to evolve with a company that values them.

“Training and development becomes an ‘investment’ if the employer harnesses those newly developed skills to help drive the business forward and it becomes a ‘cost’ if they don’t!”

The dedicated professional has worked in the voluntary sector for over 20 years. He is keen to use his skills to help those within not-forprofit organisations, particularly charities, to flourish as he has found that many are left out by training consultancies that tend to work with on more lucrative contracts.

Based in Oakham in Rutland, Training and Development’s nobrainer approach to addressing business challenges can be found at www.achieve-your-potential.uk Christopher can be contacted at christopher@training-anddevelopment.org or on 07733 334 126

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.

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

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

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Health & Safety Fire Risk Assessments Training Courses Environmental & Quality Human Resources Call us for FREE Initial Advice (0116) 216 9224 info@greensconsultancy.co.uk www.greensconsultancy.co.uk 7 Leicester Road, Countesthorpe, Leicestershire, LE8 5QU

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NICHE | 127

To Protect To Serve Celebrating their twentieth anniversary this year, Daly Systems have got it covered when it comes to the supply, installation, and support of business telecommunication systems.

Their offering doesn’t stop there, as throughout their twenty years in business they have become a leading business solutions provider.

Leicester-based but servicing all of the UK, Dalys can provide businesses with all of their telecommunications requirements from phone systems and support to lines and calls, IP CCTV, mobile phone packages and plenty of other products and services to help businesses and organisations run more efficiently.

Extra services to improve productivity The NEC uMobility Direct Dialler App is proving highly popular for businesses with staff working remotely either on the road or from home. The app is compatible with iPhones and Android phones and works by making your mobile become a part of your office telephone system. NEC describe it as “like taking your office phone with you every time you leave the office!”

If you are thinking of replacing your current telephone system with more up to date technology, or you already use an NEC system, Daly Systems, an NEC business partner, will be able to advise on how you can make the app work for your business. Clients that have tried it haven’t looked back, and now benefit from call transfers, 128 | NICHE

Like taking your office phone with you every time you leave the office! audio conferencing, up to ten speed dials and call control which lets them mute calls, put them on hold or transfer back to the office or to another app user on the system. With more employees in the UK working remotely than ever before, the uMobility Direct Dialler App is the perfect choice for businesses wishing to embrace new technology and improve productivity.

Protecting your business from Toll Fraud We all know about computer hackers and how they can access your computer system and steal information, but have you heard of Toll Fraud? Whether your businesses uses an analogue, digital or IP based telephone system, using sophisticated equipment and plenty of attempts it is possible for fraudsters to hack in and access your telephone system. Once the hackers gain access, without your knowledge. They use this

unauthorised access to make calls to anywhere in the world, at your expense, with the potential to rack up tens of thousands of pounds in fraudulent calls.

Daly Systems’ NEC Toll Fraud Application can be installed on your NEC telephone system and works by monitoring your system to ensure that any suspicious activity is immediately detected. With statistics showing that approximately 84% of UK businesses are not protected from toll fraud and the average cost to a UK business estimated at £10k, it pays to talk to Dalys to ensure your business is adequately protected.

0116 242 6996. www.dalys.co.uk

Talk Business

Face up to

IT

part 1

5

technology challenges likely to affect your business in 2016

Challenge 1: Address the need for business agility The role of IT has shifted. Gone are the days where IT was viewed as a back office function supporting the business and ‘keeping the lights on’.

Technology plays such an important role in all aspects of business that modern IT departments must permanently shift their focus from maintenance to innovation.

Challenge 2: Break free from old technology Old Technology is a huge challenge for many businesses, especially businesses having grown organically on a hodgepodge of applications that are irreplaceable.

Applications that are heavily modified, integrated and hard to maintain slow the business down.

If IT can’t move quickly, they can’t adapt to changing technology.

Challenge 3: Balance data access with data security Historically, data was stored in-house and locked down. IT controlled data access. These days, employee-owned mobile devices and bring your own device (BYOD) policies have taken over the workplace. We’ve entered a mobile world, where employees are consumers and expect data access from anywhere, on any device.

This creates a problem, how do you secure their data while adapting to the new mobile reality?

Challenge 4: Adapt to the ever-connected world Over the past few years we’ve seen an explosion of web-connected mobile devices. We’ve also seen businesses struggle to adapt to this new reality with the advent of the Internet of Things (IOT).

Soon, everything we own will be connected to the web. While we’re still in the beginning stages of the IOT, business can’t sit back and wait for it to arrive. But, how will your company adapt? What will you do with these new opportunities?

What will you do with explosion of data? Much like mobile, this new trend holds amazing potential for those companies who are prepared.

Challenge 5: Bridge the skills gap in IT A recent study found that 93% of businesses face an IT skills gap. There is a growing shortfall between the supply of qualified IT professionals and the demand for modern IT skills and the problem is growing. As technology evolution accelerates, finding employees with modern skills becomes even more challenging.

Solution 1 2016 IT Review Offer

Evolve, an award winning local business can carry out an independent review of your IT, we will not only look at your IT hardware and your enterprise software applications but we will also look at your people and processes together with your business objectives. We then work with you to ensure you have an IT strategy that addresses the challenges highlighted above while aligning your people, process and technology.

An initial one day IT review and IT health check costs just £499 + VAT. Contact Lucy today on 0116 298 7460 to get a date in the diary for January and start 2016 with a renewed IT strategy.

Download ‘Face up to IT – Part 2’ at www.evolve-consultants.co.uk/ images/faceuptoIT-part2.pdf

www.evolve-consultants.co.uk 0116 298 7460

Twitter: @Evolve_lte

NICHE | 129

Since their novel inception in 2012, Leicester-based and family run City Communications is one of the fastest growing telecoms providers in the East Midlands.

Serving businesses in and around Leicestershire, specialising in business broadband and phone lines, they pride themselves on offering a reliable and affordable telecoms service providing access to national networks with local support. Understanding a business’s telecoms needs is one of their strengths, along with their commitment to providing excellent customer service coupled with communications that actually work when you need them to.

Their excellent customer retention figures are testament to their competitive rates, but whilst they strive to get their clients the best possible price, their real skill is their ability to understand what businesses really want from a telecoms company.

It is this understanding that started the company in the first place. Unsatisfied with the telecoms offerings available to his successful finance business, City Communications Operations Director, James Morris decided to find a solution. A conversation

with his parents, Jon and Jayne Morris, (now Finance Director and Marketing & HR Director of City Communications) who at the time, owned a chain of nursery schools, and were also experiencing the same issues, led him to contact BT Openreach to enquire about becoming a direct reseller for the family’s group of companies.

After hearing about the cost savings and increased service offering; family, friends and business associates were soon wanting to sign up to the Morris family’s telecoms services. The family soon realised that there was a gap in the market for a service that adds value whilst reducing costs, and City Communications was born.

Continuing to work with BT Openreach and adding Virgin Media Business to their service portfolio, City Communications not only reduce bills by up to 40%, but more importantly, they also offer a tailored service that is needs-led. By listening to client requirements they can provide a cost effective solution that not only addresses current

Driving Value,

Talk Business

needs, but also takes in to account future growth.

For businesses worrying about any downtime they might experience when migrating their telecoms service, City Communications offer a ‘no service interruption’ guarantee, along with the option to keep your existing number. Their service offering has been truly considered, and it’s clear that they really care about finding solutions to everyday business issues. This is demonstrated by the useful telecoms add-ons they provide, such as their ‘fax to mail’ service and virtual call solutions, conveniently allowing calls to be taken from anywhere.

The scope of their offering means that they can support businesses working from a home office, to call centres with more than three hundred employees, and whilst they offer the same service level agreements as BT Openreach and Virgin Media Business, when you use City Communications you get access to support from a local company that knows your business,

with no long waits in call queues, praying you’ve been put through to the right department. Here’s what Paul Goodchild of Ask Accountancy had to say about them: “City Communications Limited have looked after our telecom requirements since they started out.

We have always been extremely pleased with their service, which has always been provided in a timely and efficient manner. James Morris is very friendly and courteous and always goes that extra mile to make sure you have exactly what you need. and he or a member of his staff is always available to speak to. I would not hesitate for a moment to recommend the services of James Morris and City Communications Limited.”

Their telecoms service, covers phone lines and calls, broadband and fibre, business mobile and VoIP, but their business communications offering doesn’t stop there. Their services also include the complete management of all their clients’ communications, from telecoms to eye catching web design, hosting

and SEO management to social media management, where they manage and monitor social media campaigns and create the content.

Why not give City Communications a call for an informal chat about how your business can improve its telecoms services. Their free consultation service has proved invaluable to many of their clients, and don’t worry, they won’t bombard you with emails or telephone calls, they’re confident their service offering is second to none, with the features of a national product, supported by the benefits of using a local business.

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Sports

Foxes, Tigers and Riders all on the march As we go to press Christmas is approaching and Leicester City sit on top of the Premier League – who would have thought there could be such a transformation since this time last year? Jamie Vardy has rewritten the record books with his amazing run of goals in 11 successive league fixtures; Riyad Mahrez has dazzled – could he be our most naturally gifted player ever? - and N’Golo Kanté is rapidly proving to be the outstanding buy of the summer: so much so that pundits are describing the Foxes as having the best three players in the Premier League this season – heady days indeed!

For Tigers’ fans the new stand at Welford Road continues to take shape as does the team on the

field. The new coaching set up under Aaron Mauger is already delivering an exciting new brand of rugby that has the team in contention in both the Premiership and in the Champions Cup: notably becoming the first team to win two European ties at the fortress that is Thomond Park in Limerick. A host of new names have already made their mark this season - Lachlan McCaffrey, Brendon O’Connor, Telusa Veainu and Mike Williams among them – and a return to the years of collecting trophies appears to be a real possibility.

Leicester Riders are even closer to winning a trophy. Already through to the BBL Cup Final, only regular final adversaries Newcastle Eagles stand in their way at the

Barclaycard Arena in Birmingham in January. Niche’s own Neil Watson continues to star as the club looks forward to moving into their impressive new home at the Leicester Community Sports Arena to continue their challenge for league honours.

It is, of course, the off season for both Leicestershire CCC and the Leicester Lions, but both clubs continue to work hard in preparation for their respective 2016 campaigns. It looks as though the Lions will have to get used to life without their talismanic Aussie Jason Doyle, who finished his first Grand Prix season in an outstanding fifth place, thus ensuring his qualification for the 2016 series.

Proud sponsors of the Niche sports pages 132 | NICHE

Mike Sewell/Leicester Mercury

Sports

Getting to know Rendell Munroe

Catching up with Elliott

Getting Practical

Supporting local charities Edgar’s Gift and Olivia’s Journey was a huge success last year and left me wanting to continue the fight to help those less fortunate than myself.

Upon my return home from being Head Coach of the Thai army football team over a year ago, I became co-commentator for the BBC analysing Leicester’s home and away matches. With all their success, it’s been particularly enjoyable.

It’s been a little quiet at the academy of late with many of our students out and about putting some of their skills to use.

On the 12th February, I invite you to the ‘Get to Know Rendall Munroe’ dining event hosted by Niche Magazine. The two course Sportsman’s dinner at the Cow and Plough in Stoughton Park is £50 per head and supports the Bodie Hodges Foundation and Matt Hampson Foundation.

The Bodie Hodges Foundation aims to raise £150,000 to buy a holiday home that will be used for families to stay in after the loss of a child. The Matt Hampson Foundation provides support, relief and treatment for people suffering injury or disability of any kind and in particular, caused by taking part in a sport or activity.

My retirement from boxing has allowed me to open many doors that lead to using my skills in a positive way. Setting up Triple Skillz Sports for children partly and entirely excluded from main stream schools, I give them guidance to make a positive future.

Save the date for the 12th February as well as the Bodie Hodges Foundation fourth annual sports dinner and charity auction at Leicester Tigers Stadium on 23rd March. www.tripleskillz.co.uk

The Matt Elliott Football Development Scheme is something I set up to get the kids playing sport three or four times a week. It’s just my way of giving back to the community and I think it’s important for children to get enjoyment out of sports. I’m not trying to turn them into professionals; it’s first and foremost about having fun.

Since September, DMU has made me Football Development Manager.

I’m there to assist and oversee all the university teams. The students are enthusiastic so it’s a really great environment to be in.

My association with Leicester City has bought some brilliant opportunities my way and I’m now freelancing for Sky Sports, Radio Five Live and more. Working with Lumbers Jewellers as a Sales Ambassador keeps me busy and organising hospitality work at the King Power Stadium is always interesting doing meet and greets, Q&As, or even being the quiz master!

Since the last issue we’ve had several students on a foreign exchange in the beautiful city of Valencia, where they’ve been able to gain an insight into local life alongside taking part in some of the best multi-sport coaching on the continent and, of course, a visit to Valencia’s infamous football ground.

Back in Leicester, we’ve been coaching ourselves with work placements in local primary and secondary schools, allowing the students to plan and deliver coaching to pupils; gaining invaluable experience for not only their studies but their chosen careers. We were also delighted to take part in an event at Aylestone Leisure Centre which saw disabled youngsters from across the county competing in sports hall athletics as part of an inter-school challenge - that was extremely inspiring and immensely rewarding for the team, we even had one of our girls in tears!

Read more about the former Leicester City Footballer online.

All in all, I think everyone was ready for the Christmas break and we’re back in the classroom in the New Year focussing on the delivery of sport in schools and leadership in sport and, much to my personal delight, the very generous people from Notts Sport will be installing new cricket nets for 2016.

www.mattelliottblog.co.uk

www.paulnixoncricket.com

Celebrating 50 years in business NICHE | 133

Don’t Forget Facebook: Leicester Racecourse Twitter: @LeicesterRaces

134 | NICHE

Sports

Your Husbands!

Ladies Day is one of the most significant events in any racecourse’s calendar. At Leicester it’s no exception.

Last year we saw almost 10,000 ladies and gents converge on the racecourse in Oadby for an exciting day of racing, some spectacular dresses, champagne and live music. This year General Manager Rob Bracken, or ‘Racing Rob’, is aiming for bigger and better.

Rob told us, “Last year’s event was absolutely brilliant, it was a great day to attend and to be involved in and we were very proud of it. But, of course, we’re always aiming to improve and I think this year we will do one better and are aiming for a crowd of 14,000.”

The event itself takes place on Saturday 2nd July with gates opening at 10.15am, racing from 2.15pm through to 5.35pm with music entertainment starting from 12 noon and then continuing until late once the live racing action has finished. With entry starting at just £29.00 this is set to be Leicester’s social event of the year.

“Racing is no longer elitist and we want everyone to be able to come along and enjoy the atmosphere here at Leicester. Without the local community and suppliers we wouldn’t be able to do this, so we want to celebrate it with everyone.” Rob continued Organised for the peak of the summer weather, Ladies Day is the perfect opportunity for ladies across the county to show off their very best

attire, and even be in with a chance of winning the coveted ‘Best Dressed Lady’ award on the day. But, it’s not all about the ladies (despite the name), men, women and children can enjoy the event as a great excuse for a day out with friends and family or even as a chance to impress clients with corporate hospitality.

Under 18’s are admitted for free and there will be 2,000 hospitality spaces available which include a hog roast and guaranteed seating, and with private hospitality available to book right in the centre of the action there is something for everyone - making sure Leicester Racecourse’s Ladies Day is one of the biggest and best events around.

“Racing always makes for a really good corporate event, be it for clients or as an employee day out,” Rob explained, “Ladies Day is always extra special and the highlight of many racecourse’s years, as with us, so if you want to make a great impression or show your appreciation, the Ladies Day corporate packages are ideal.”

On the day, you’ll be entertained with live music performances from the likes of cover band Re-Take That and the superstars, Billy Ocean and Mica Paris as well as a celebrity DJ taking to the stage. Hundreds of local food and drink suppliers are on hand to keep

Save the Date

Saturday 2nd July 2016 LADIES DAY Leicester Racecourse the energy flowing, serving everything from afternoon tea, champagne and 3 course meals to gourmet burgers and inspired street food - enough to whet any appetite and to keep the party fuelled.

Rob added, “I’ve gained a reputation as a bit of a ‘foodie’ so, as you can imagine catering for every taste - from simplicity to a la carte is extremely important to me. Whatever type of food we provide, we want it to be well made, delicious, locally sourced and competitively priced and that’s what we think we’ve achieved with the suppliers we’ve booked.”

But, the focus is firmly both inside and out of the racecourse itself, as Ladies Day fever begins to heighten, Rob and the team will be working with businesses in the local area to engage their support and to offer them a chance to get involved and enjoy the celebrations. Oadby’s retailers are invited to take part in the ‘Best Dressed Shop’ competition in the spirit of Ladies Day - where retailers will compete for the title with innovative and glamorous window displays. More details will be unveiled later this year.

Tickets and hospitality packages for Ladies Day are available now at www.leicester-racecourse.co.uk or by calling 0116 271 6515

NICHE | 135

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And the reason? The commitment to provide cardboard clappers for all home fans each game has proved to be an astute investment.

The sound of 30,000 fans ‘clapping’ in unison has served to involve all sections of the crowd in generating this new atmosphere and has

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Well, hopefully, the atmosphere at Welford Road will not be adversely affected by the construction work in progress, but things have definitely changed at the King Power Stadium. The noise level is now, arguably, the loudest and most intimidating in the league and the effect it is having on the Foxes’ form is clear for all to see.

sw

Writing this in the week that Tim Peake became the first Briton to escape the Earth’s atmosphere for many years, it seems an opportune moment to consider what goes into creating the ideal ‘atmosphere’ at our sporting venues. Football fans have, for several years, been concerned that the new City Stadium does not seem to generate the same feel that Filbert Street used to while rugby fans have been quick to point to the effect that their legendary ‘Tigers’ chant has on the team.

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Nottingham-born basketball “Since entering the BBL I’ve improved in ways star Jamell Anderson reached to make me more effective. I’ve looked at my a personal milestone already game both defensively and offensively to this improve. ” season as he reached over 1000 career points in the British “I’ve been lucky enough to play with and Basketball League.

against some great players that I can learn from. I The aim British to helpforward my team get results once again this is impressing everytime I amhaving on court. ” up the clubs’ MVP award season picked and his all-action performances at both boards.

“We have a team of hardworking people, that is very strong as aenough unit. I know that with “I’ve been lucky to play with and Coach against Rob’s (Paternostro) coaching our some great players thatand I can learn from. continuous ethic we will to get I am I aim work to help my team getcontinue results everytime better on andcourt. push” ourselves to be the best team we can be.”

“There is a sense of achievement,” reflected You canJamell. follow Jamell this season on facebook.com/jamellandersonbball

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“Since entering the BBL I’ve improved in ways to make me more effective. I’ve looked at my game both defensively and offensively to improve.”

“We have a team of hardworking people, that is very strong as a unit. I know that with Coach Rob’s (Paternostro) coaching and our continuous work ethic we will continue to get better and push ourselves to be the best team we can be.”

You can follow Jamell this season on facebook.com/jamellandersonbball

Jamell Anderson in Paris this summer

Jamell Anderson in Paris this summer

“It’s definitely an unexpected milestone and not something I’m keeping track of. I’m happy to have been playing professionally in this league long enough earn that. I want to continue to improve and achieve.”

Follow us on Twitter: @AFDAcademy

Jamell, who was the first player to stay in Britain and work through each of the National team age groups to the senior team, has become a real threat in this league.

Celebrating 50 years in business NICHE | 03

NICHE| |137 03 NICHE

4TH ANNUAL SPORTS DINNER & CHARITY AUCTION GUEST SPEAKERS Richard Cockerill Director of Rugby, Leicester Tigers

Rob Paternostro Head Coach, Leicester Riders

WEDS 23RD MARCH 2016 (ONE WORK DAY UNTIL GOOD FRIDAY) 1880 Suite Leicester Tigers Stadium 6.30pm - 12.30am Price £67.50 per ticket or £650 per table of 10

Contact: Nick Hodges 07887 745850 bodiehodgesfoundation@yahoo.co.uk

OFFICIAL SPONSOR

Tackling the build of the

‘Get Busy Living Centre’

together

A local charity that supports people suffering catastrophic sporting injuries seeks help from businesses who can offer their services to the building of their new rehabilitation centre that will benefit people across the UK.

140 | NICHE

The Matt Hampson Foundation was formed in 2011 by the former Leicester Tigers Rugby player. Matt wanted to use his experience and knowledge to inspire and support others who found themselves in a similar position and help them to Get Busy Living again.

More people are approaching The Foundation for help, which means there is increased awareness and interest surrounding the work they do. Matt has a dream to build a ‘Get Busy Living’ rehabilitation centre where beneficiaries and their families can come together.

Sharing knowledge and experiences is a powerful tool in the rehabilitation process following a life changing injury. For many waking up and facing another day is a battle in itself. The aim is to create an environment to assist those facing new challenges in both theirs and their families lives. The beneficiaries will be able to benefit

from the support network of others in a similar position as well as physiotherapy, life skills and other alternative therapies.

This dream is soon to become a reality thanks to the generosity of local landowners Dawn and Fred Wilson whose old airplane hanger near Melton Mowbray will be transformed into the Get Busy Living Centre.

However the centre won’t build itself and they need your help.

Construction Company, Willmott Dixon, will be a major participant in the development and are eager to start work on the centre this year.

The Foundation are looking for all kinds of businesses to get involved to pledge materials or services to assist in this project.

he can use his profile to make sure that there is support for others who suffer similar life altering injuries.

The Foundation is unique in that most people they help become part of the Foundation and go on to help others and this centre will become the hub of this community and something Leicestershire should be very proud of.

Will you be able to lend a helping hand? Contact the team at info@hambo.co.uk www.matthampsonfoundation.org to make a donation or send a message telling them you’d love to have a part in the making of this life changing centre.

The support Matt has received since his accident from the local community has been incredible and the Foundation was set up so NICHE | 141

Performances to be Proud of, on and off the pitch We’ve had a great start to our second year and so we are excited to see what successes 2016 brings.

Students get a true insight into what training at a professional club will entail, with me and Muzzy coaching daily to demonstrate how sessions operate and Jon Stevenson heading strength and conditioning coaching and, we’re seeing some great performances from the Academy’s teams with the girls side currently unbeaten. We’ve also had students looking to learn how to coach and we’ve enjoyed some fantastic placements across the local schools where students have been able to start putting their skills to use.

Back in the classroom, we have students working towards the BTEC Level 3 (extended diploma) in Sports and if they thought A Level Sports Studies would be tough, this is a whole lot more; covering all sports as well as nutrition, physiotherapy and sports psychology and the split between theory and practical seems to be a winning formula.

Already we’re recruiting for 2016 and in future issues we will give you details but if you cannot wait, our next taster session is 17th February from 11.00am at Judge Meadow Community College.

Twitter: @AFDAcademy

From the Lion’s den It’s official – the Leicester Speedway Jordan Road Surfacing Stadium track is in the top 3 in England. So perhaps that is why the Lions riders rarely seem to have any true home advantage and sometimes struggle to contain the opposition. All of which makes Jason Doyle’s achievement in recording the highest match average in the Elite League all the more remarkable.

However, the Lions will have to make do without their captain next summer as the popular Aussie has decided, understandably, to concentrate on establishing himself as a regular Grand Prix rider (having finished fifth in the 2015 series and qualifying for next year) and will therefore be riding for a team that has it’s regular home night in midweek rather than for the Saturday night Lions. Ironically, by riding for Swindon instead his task of maintaining his match average may become even harder!

All Lions fans will wish Jason luck for the future and will be eagerly awaiting news of the new heat leaders who will be lining up at Beaumont Leys next summer.

Szymon Wosniak, Grzegorz Walasek, Josh Auty and Paul Starke are confirmed as Lions for 2016, so it is now just the ‘big cats’ that the fans await.

Whoever is signed, their task will be simple, to improve on results of the past two seasons and catapult the Lions towards the play-offs at last. www.leicesterlions.co.uk

Connecting communities Coaching young people and working with the Matt Hampson Foundation in the midst of developing my own business, the last few months have been full of activity. There have been some great moments coaching at Ratcliffe College and Nottingham University. Using the experiences gained from my professional rugby career, younger players have been learning about the sport and I have enjoyed guiding them.

As Business Development Consultant for the Matt Hampson Foundation, I am always on the lookout for new opportunities and contacts who wish to get involved in the ‘Get Busy Living’ centre.

Since retiring, connections gained throughout my career have proved invaluable in supporting the foundation and my plans to get my event hosting business off the ground has benefited from the help of some great people that have surrounded me.

Having run many events in the past, the objective for 2016 is to use this understanding towards future events that will allow the public and corporate clients to arrange a package hosted by a professional sports person. The Annual Six Nations Rugby Dinner on 2nd March is another event I have the pleasure of running with the Matt Hampson Foundation.

Hope to see you all there! www.matthampsonfoundation.org

Proud sponsors of the Niche sports pages 142 | NICHE

Sports

The Future is

Red, White and Green Leicester Tigers currently sit 3rd in the Aviva Premiership Table going into the next round of Aviva Premiership matches during the festive schedule.

Fans, players and staff couldn’t have asked for a much better start to the season which has been emphasised with bonus point victories against Stade Francais, Benetton Treviso and Worcester Warriors.

With the introduction of Aaron Mauger to the role of head coach at the start of the season, there has been a greater emphasis on playing the ball out to the backs, adding yet another dynamic to the already successful and effective team.

This season Tigers have continued to build and develop the team with the likes of Peter Betham and Jean de Villiers joining the back line.

Tigers have also re-signed four current Tigers players, including youth products Manu Tuilagi and

Ben Youngs, which demonstrates the importance of retaining current players and building for the future, which is highlighted with the signing of Matt Toomua for the 2016/17 campaign.

Whilst Toomua and Tuilagi is a partnership fans will be relishing in 2016, the current excitement is focused on Manu’s return to action and his link-up with de Villiers, who is set to debut for the Tigers during the Christmas period. The duo will create an overwhelming back line which is sure to unnerve the opposition.

The remainder of the season looks set to be a thrilling spectacle with high-intensity matches including; a local derby against Northampton Saints, a clash with old rivals

Saracens and the final home European group game against Benetton Treviso.

Book your seat now and experience the electric atmosphere of Welford Road with a Leicester Tigers Half Season Ticket. Tickets start from just £135 for adults and £55 for juniors and include all eight final home fixtures of the regular season; there is no better way to see Leicester Tigers in action this coming year!

Call 0116 319 8888 (option 2) to purchase or visit www.leicestertigers.com/ halfseasontickets for more information. /leicestertigers @LeicesterTigers

Celebrating 50 years in business NICHE | 143

Are you

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Do you struggle to lose weight and keep it off? If you have made a vow to lose weight in 2016 and want the support you need to succeed then U Fit Studio has the answer.

U Fit Studio, the fitness studio that is revolutionising health and weight loss in the city, is giving four people the opportunity to transform their health and lifestyle with a year-long membership to its Barkby Road based fitness suite, worth £15,000.

In addition to their U Fit Studio membership, the winners will also take part in a documentary about their weight loss progress.

Delivering a holistic approach to weight loss, U Fit Studio helps its members reach their fitness, health and lifestyle goals through individualised exercise programmes, tailored nutritional advice and lifestyle management.

The package includes personal training sessions and psychological support, as well as motivational support and guidance relating to exercise and diet.

Joe Hanney, Managing Coach at U Fit Studio, comments: “We are offering Niche readers a life changing opportunity to join us

144 | NICHE

here at U Fit Studio on a year’s membership. This is a great opportunity for anyone who has previously struggled to lose weight and make permanent changes to their lifestyle, as we will help them to adopt a more successful lifestyle to meet their goals. Our support is completely tailored to each individual, so you will receive all of the advice and support to suit your lifestyle and your progress will be filmed throughout for a documentary. So, are you ready to transform your lifestyle and become the next U Fit Studio success story?”

U Fit Studio success stories Karen Preston, aged 47, has gone from a size 16/18 to an 8. She comments, “I have been a size 8 in the past for short periods but only through crash dieting and I looked skinny / unwell. Now I look and feel fit and healthy. The U Fit philosophy has changed my life for the better without a doubt. Healthy and sustainable habits are now embedded and I feel more confident than ever before and have a belief in myself that never existed prior to U Fit.”

Office Manager Caroline Gordon (40) wanted to lose enough weight to feel comfortable wearing a bikini.

Caroline says, “I have an entire new wardrobe for starters, I feel much more confident and happier within myself. I’m eating much better and eat way more than I thought I would, but more vegetables and meat/ fish than before, plus I have cut out takeaways entirely.”

Sag Kanani comments, “The guys at U Fit Studio guide you and they motivate you on a personal level, as well as when you’re training. The coaches here are game changers.

They have helped me achieve something I didn’t think I could achieve.”

For more details on how to enter the competition please visit www.ufitdocumentary2016.co.uk.

The deadline for entries is Friday 22nd January.

0116 276 3411 www.ufitstudio.co.uk

Chosen Charities:

Courtesy of:

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*The closing date for entries is Friday 22nd April 2016 at 11.59pm. Visit www.totalmotion.co.uk/donate for full terms and conditions.

NICHE | 173

Motoring

146 | NICHE

Motoring

FX Detailing provides a high quality, mobile vehicle detailing service covering the whole of the East Midlands region and surrounding areas.

You can relax in the knowledge that every surface of your vehicle will be treated perfectly. As you would expect, attention to detail is one of our two priorities for our customers, the other is providing outstanding customer service, so you can be sure your vehicle will be ready on time, looking great for when you need it.

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Take the stress away from having your car serviced

LET THE MOBILE GARAGE COME TO YOU Servicing - Clutch & Flywheel Replacement - Brakes - Diagnostics - Head Gasket Repair - Engine Replacement - Vehicle Electrics - MOT Repairs - Gearbox Replacement - Suspension - Remapping

0800 859 5283 info@themobilegaragepeople.co.uk www.themobilegaragepeople.co.uk 148 | NICHE

Motoring

How to care for matte and satin paint

Maintenance Tips this Winter

Whatever car you have, looking after the paint and keeping it looking great will take time, quality products and a bit of know how so you don’t mess it up! With new matte and satin paint there are a few things that are very different from standard gloss paint, and so your products and processes will need to be adjusted accordingly. Here we set out a basic guide to caring for your matte/satin/frosted paint and the products we recommend to keep it looking as amazing as the day you bought it. ♦ Add some SwissVax Car Bath Opaque to a bucket of warm water ♦ Rinse the wheels of heavy debris, spray with your regular wheel cleaner and use your brushes to clean the whole wheel and rinse ♦ Rinse the whole car to remove heavy dirt build up, if you have a snow foam gun/pressure washer, use that to help. ♦ Fill your wash bucket with warm water and add some SwissVax Car Bath Opaque ♦ Ensure your wash mitt is clean, and start your wash, using the soapy water, wash from the top of the car downwards, cleaning the wash mitt off in the clean water as often as possible. ♦ Once the whole car is washed, dry with a microfibre towel ♦ You can now start the paint cleaning process, lightly mist SwissVaxPaint Cleaner Opaque onto a panel and speed/remove with a microfibre cloth. ♦ Once the paint is clean you can now start applying the wax. ♦ Using a soft sponge applicator, do small sections at a time. ♦ Buff off each section as soon as you can, you may get streaks and smears if you let the wax dry. ♦ Complete this for the whole car.

Check your battery Batteries are the most common cause of winter breakdowns. A battery that’s over 5 years old is even more likely to struggle in the cold. Make sure you get it checked regularly, and if needed have it replaced, to avoid unnecessary breakdowns this winter. A regular service is the best way to catch any potential car trouble early.

07775 524 983 www.fxdetailing.co.uk

Antifreeze level?

You should check coolant levels regularly and if necessary you should top up with the right mixture of Anti-freeze. If you’re unsure of the right anti-freeze mixture, a mechanic should check you have the right concentration levels.

Check your tyres Ensure your vehicle’s tyres have 3mm of tread on them in winter.

If you’re after improved safety, winter tyres should be considered as an option. Again, a regular car service should spot if there’s any issues with tread or other common tyre troubles.

Frosted doors The last thing you want when you’re running late for work is to be stuck outside your car. To prevent your doors freezing shut apply a small layer of Vaseline or polish around any rubber seals, you will stop the cold freezing them shut.

Emergency kit As a winter motorist you should always plan for the worst by having an emergency kit in your car. Important things to include are a shovel, blankets, torch and batteries, snacks and scraper.

0800 859 5283 www.themobilegaragepeople.co.uk

Total Motion Road Test

Range Rover Evoque If you’re considering treating yourself to a Range Rover and don’t fancy a massive piece of metal, then the Evoque gives you everything you’d expect from a Range Rover but condensed into a smaller shell. This is now Land Rover’s best-selling model and it’s easy to see why as it has everything you’d look for in an SUV. Exterior: The Evoque certainly has advanced styling and the option to personalise from factory models gives you so many choices. You’ll struggle to pull up to one that’s exactly the same.

Interior: Like all Jaguar Land Rover vehicles, the interiors are fantastic.

Full leather throughout and all the hi-tech gadgets make the car feel top of the range.

Engine/Power: 2.0 eD4 - New generation of Jaguar Land Rover.

Ride and Handling: We drive a lot of BMW’s and the Evoque outperforms the equivalent for ride position, comfort and response. If you want an SUV then look no further, this is the one to go for.

The Competition: BMW X3 & X4, Audi Q3 & Q5, Ford Kuga, Mercedes GLC and Infiniti QX50 Closing Thoughts: Really impressed with this car and no wonder there is such a hype around it at the moment. The only downside is the lead time. You’ll have to wait approximately 6 months to receive your new Evoque, but believe me… it’s definitely worth the wait.

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0116 251 1122 www.totalmotion.co.uk

NICHE | 149

IMAGE COURTESY OF CURVE

What’s on

Consider yourself

‘part of the family’ with Curve

An evening spent at Curve surrounded by our much-loved clients and other theatre enthusiasts Corporate hospitality is something so many businesses spend precious time organising and budget on.

Getting it just right for guests is crucial and something that takes a lot of careful planning. After attending numerous events at Curve and meeting with Corporate Business Development Manager, Sunita Patel, it was evident their proficient team would make light work of our needs and deliver a great night for Niche and guests.

We partnered with Curve as part of their business associates scheme as it gives us a stage to showcase our talent and to get further involved with the local business community.

Looking through the program, the first show we plumped for was Oliver, a classic and fun production full of Christmas spirit.

So drawing up a guest list we set about booking a date and one

150 | NICHE

thing that really impressed us was the communication and flexibility of Curve. Sunita went above and beyond for us to ensure we spent a memorable and enjoyable evening at Curve.

With theatre staff taking control of hospitality, the Niche team were able to really experience the evening and actually feel like guests! With a copious selection of canapés catering for all dietary requirements being served with a drop or two of fizz, our guests took to their seats contented and full of festive feeling.

Sat in the upper circle, we had a perfect vista of the set and the excitement continued from the welcome reception in the upper ‘mezz’ area. During the interval we devoured the ice cream laid on by Curve and enjoyed a résumé of the first half of the show, tucked

nicely out of the way of the usual hustle and bustle. We enjoyed the outstanding performance with great company hosted to perfection.

Blissfully unaware of all the hard work the Curve team put in to making the evening a great success, we can honestly say we believe their hospitality to be amongst the best in the city. Creating a fantastic cultured environment to engage with other businesses on a social level is where Curve takes the leading role.

Guest comments: “A fabulous evening with great company, what a superb performance!”

“The most enjoyable business event I have been to this year.”

“Great experience, we are looking at bringing some of our own clients along to a show.”

WHAT’S ON

27 NOV – 23 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

Luxury Villa Accomodation in the Algarve Sleeps 4 2 minutes 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 and awning suitable for extra people, June-Sept.

Tel: 01935 891 241 152 | NICHE

peakevenetia@rocketmail.com

www.1valedolobo.co.uk

“We sell memories not just holidays” www.purelyprestigious.com purelyprestigious @purelyprestigious

Eastham Hall Caravan Park

Lytham St. Annes SALTCOTES ROAD LYTHAM ST ANNES, LANCASHIRE FY8 4LS

Touring Caravans Seasonal Tourers Holiday Homes www.easthamhall.co.uk 01253 737 907 NICHE | 153

Bina Modi and Nichola Moss

Marie Mason-Hall, Lee Parkin and Toni Robinson

Mark Daniels, Julie and Tom Langton

Heather Williams and Tracey Miller

Christmas Party Jukebox Bar, in Leicester, was the genial host to the Christmas celebrations for friends, supporters, clients and contributors of Niche Magazine. Our guests were greeted with fantastic cocktails, setting the tone for a superb salubrious soiree.

Live music from Leicester’s own groove gurus ‘Funk Soul Collective’ went down a storm with dancing and general merriment ensuing! We know how to party.

Jenny Cross, Leigh Taylor, Marie Mason-Hall and Joel Mulloy

Tracey and Mark Daniels

Gemma Platt, Mark Platt and Gabriella Harrison

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Karen Ferguson, Ian Ferguson and Mick Ventola

Bryan McIntosh and Peter Burgher

We’d like to say a huge thanks to all who have supported us in 2015 and

Tracy Daniels and Clare Sommerfeld

Joel Mulloy and Duncan Charles

Tash Harris, Tim Emony and Leanne Baker

Natalie Howes, Chris Wigmore, Alex Kowalczuk and Julie Langton

that we are ready to embrace the new year 2016. It means so much to us to see all of our business associates together, enjoying joint company and at the same time supporting each other’s businesses too.

Alex Kowalczuk, Toni Robinson and Rachael Ritchie

Stevie Hart and Kirk Rothwell

Another massive thank you to general manager Rhyss at Jukebox and his team for their hospitality, it’s a great place to let down your hair, kickback and celebrate. Check out their diary of events for 2016.

Make sure you keep you note our next event in your diary. Niche Networking takes place 14th January at Soft Touch Arts www.jukeboxleicester.co.uk

Jenny Cross and Ian Guyler

Victoria and Stefan Wardle

NICHE | 155

Joe Humphries Trust Charity Ball On Thursday evening 4th October 2012, a knock on the door changed the lives of the Humphries family forever.

Joe (14 years old), collapsed whilst jogging within 2 minutes of his home.

The tragedy of losing a fit, healthy, vibrant and fun loving Joe was made all the harder to bear when the family found the very next day that 12 fit and healthy young people die every week across the UK, with no prior symptoms or warning; that equates to 634 lives lost to SADS (sudden arrhythmic death syndrome).

This staggering, unacceptable statistic has inspired close family members and friends to set up ‘The Joe Humphries Memorial Trust’ so that Joe will not just become another statistic .

156 | NICHE

As much as the family accept that other health issues need attention they can never accept that it is not equally as important to inform and educate the general public about the fact that young people can be susceptible to subtle heart diseases which can strike anyone, anywhere anytime.

Their goal is to make SADS awareness a priority too! To reduce the risk of a young person falling victim to SADS it is imperative that people are informed about the symptoms to look out for, taught the necessary CPR skills and have access to a defibrillator. CPR can increase survival rates by up to 50% if carried out within the first vital minutes of collapse.

There is no question that every child who leaves school should have basic CPR skills and know how to save a life. Why shouldn’t defibrillators become as common

place as fire extinguishers? After all the amount of deaths caused by fire are many less than those thousands a year caused by cardiac arrest in all age groups.

Martin Johnson CBE is Patron of the charity; and with the support of his wife, Kay and the Stoneygate School Association, this years Charity Ball, held at Shearsby Bath in Bruntingthorpe, was raising funds for The Joe Humphries Trust.

The evening was a huge success with a grand total of £3000 raised.

For more information on the trust please see contact details below: The Joe Humphries Memorial Trust 11 Halywell Nook, Rothley Leicester Leicestershire LE7 7QL General Enquiries jhmt@jhmt.org.uk

Tilinanu - ‘Party for the Princesses’ Established in 2009 by Alice and Nina Pulford, Tilinanu Orphanage educates, houses and supports up to 34 Malawian girls at any one given time. Entirely funded through individual sponsorship and fundraising, it remains to this day 100% non-profit. No overheads, no hidden costs, it really is that simple The annual ball held at The Platinum Suite in November helped this amazing cause with it’s great work, raising £35,000 for the needy coffers.

A timely and most deserved presentation was made to Alice and Nina on the night, Prime Minister David Cameron had personally selected the sisters for a ‘Points of Light’ award, given in recognition of achievement of outstanding and inspirational volunteers.

For more information please visit lovesupportunite.org

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Launch Event Niche Business Awards Thursday, 25 February 2016 from 18:00

From the massive success and the amazing feedback we have had from all involved in the inaugural Niche Business Awards held this year we are pleased and very proud to announce the launch of Niche Business Awards 2016 We are holding the official launch at Leicester Racecourse, also our Headline Sponsor for a second year, and warmly invite you to come along.

We have a number of new and exciting changes to announce and a number of new sponsors and ambassadors too. Nominations will be live on our web site from January 2016 with the culmination and glittering Awards Ceremony on 9th September 2016 at The Athena, Leicester. You can nominate companies that are based in Leicestershire that qualify for one of our fourteen categories, shortlists and winners will be independently adjudicated by our carefully selected panels. It’s your chance to recognise and reward those who stand out from the crowd.

The evening will be a great opportunity to meet network, meet and mingle as well as hearing all about our plans for this sure to sell out event on the Leicester business calendar.

A superb buffet and refreshments will be served in the Club Suite with sweeping views over the racecourse.

For further information please get in touch awards@nichemagazine.co.uk or by calling 0116 271 2573 Tickets Available from Eventbrite.co.uk

#NicheBizAwards

MNE Late December saw MNE Accounting move offices, their new premises being literally next door. They welcomed guests to enjoy a buffet supper and a glass of wine in the modern and spacious Upper Brown Street address. The previous occupants was the michellin starred Watson’s Restaurant.

MNE Accounting are a modern and forward thinking accountancy firm who bridge the gap with SME companies and provide a holistic financial management service.

MNEAccounting.co.uk 0116 255 2422

Frost Me! at Lumbers A glittering fundraising evening held in Leicester by the Star Trust has raised in excess of £37,000 for local good causes.

Three Leicester charities will benefit from the monies raised by business leaders and entrepreneurs at the Star Trust’s inaugural ‘Frost Me’ dinner, held at the new Lumbers store in the city on Thursday 3rd December.

Bodie Hodges Foundation, Childhood Eye Cancer Trust and The Y, in Leicester are the grateful recipients of the Star Trust’s effort and the funds will make a difference for each.

Charities interested in applying to the Star Trust should visit www.star-trust.org.uk for further information.

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Barrie Stephen - RSPCA Woodside ambassador 2015 was a hugely successful year for RSPCA Woodside ambassador Barrie Stephen with his incredible fundraising efforts and support, continuing on from a great 2014.

Barrie organised and hosted fabulous events this year such as his annual Halloween Ball and a charity dinner at the White Peacock Restaurant in Leicester. He has supported Woodside events such as their Summer Fete and Christmas Market with a pop-up salon where guests have donated to the charity in exchange for having their hair styled. Each month, Barrie offers Woodside’s volunteer of the month a complimentary appointment at one of his salons and his staff also go along to the shelter to lend a hand and get stuck in. Barrie’s passion for the charity is infectious, and even his clients have become supporters of Woodside, with one lady asking simply for donations to

the charity for her 40th birthday, raising a fantastic £540.

With all this hard work and support, Barrie has surpassed his £10,000 end of year target and has raised an official total of £11,586! However, he isn’t stopping there and is aiming high for 2016 with ambition to double his total this time next year with many more exciting plans in the pipeline.

Barrie also has his own text number for donations to RSPCA Woodside- simply text BSBS00 £5 to 70070 or visit https://www.justgiving.com/ PROJECTWOODSIDE

digitalmagic creative at heart

Look the part, corporate head shots by Digital Magic

07725 995 899 www.digitalmagic.uk

NICHE | 161

Join us for a fun filled night of celebrating Funky’s 1st Birthday and help raise much needed money for local childrens charity Menphys

www.menphys.org.uk Friday 1st April 2016 King Power Stadium, 7pm until late Tickets available from www.wellpuffed.co.uk £50 per head or £450 for a table of 10 Includes: Arrival fizz, three course dinner, disco, entertainment, music from The Disco Prophets, auction, raffle, very special guest TBC and lots of great memories.

Dress to impress!

For sponsorship packages or further info please contact Funky on 0790 244 0774 or email wellpuffed@funkypuffafish.co.uk 162 | NICHE

Some children don’t live long enough.

We’re here for them and the people who love them most.

And as the East Midlands hospice for children and young people, we need support too.

Help us be there.

Visit www.rainbows.co.uk

Jessie at Rainbows NICHE | 163

Leicestershire charity, Wishes 4 Kids, is feeling the full impact of K Kong Events Christmas spirit as they make 180 wishes for kids come true A cause close to heart, owner of K Kong Events, Shane Whitefield has always offered his support to Wishes 4 Kids by hosting charity auctions at his well-attended K Kong Events, which attract high profile speakers, such as Alan Shearer and Paul Gascoigne.

After the last minute cancellation of a previous event organiser, Wishes 4 Kids annual Christmas party was in danger of being cancelled, seeing 180 children with life-limiting illnesses extremely disappointed. Russell Brickett, Founder of Wishes 4 Kids said: “Once Shane heard of our plight he was determined that the children would have their party and pulled out all the stops to make it happen. The party is now scheduled for Saturday 12th December with numbers now over 300.”

Based in Leicester, Wishes 4 Kid was created to help fulfil the wishes of children under the age of 18 who have severe illness, experienced life-changing physical or emotional traumas and major abuse or been diagnosed as HIV positive.

Shane said: “I’m in a fortunate position to have worked with some amazing local businesses through my company, so when I heard of the dilemma Wishes 4 Kids were facing, I

wanted to do everything possible to make sure the event went ahead.”

To make sure the event is a complete success, Shane has drafted in some of Leicestershire leading business to share their resources for the children and the charity. Together, The Maher Centre, Blaby Audio and Visual, The Bradley Whitfield Trust Fund and Deekay Beer Supplies have offered their support to host a Christmas party on 12th December, seeing the likes of entertainment, food and drink being provided completely free to the event.

Shane told us, “I knew that these guys would do everything they could to help; and they didn’t disappoint.

Yes, we’re in business to make money but more than that, we all live here – this is our community and wherever we can we will support great causes like Wishes 4 Kids to make a positive difference…especially at Christmas!”

Vivek Khistariya, at the Maher Centre commented, “When we heard that Wishes 4 Kids had been let down we wanted to step in straight away.

We are not only hiring the space, but also decorating to make sure these children have an absolutely amazing Christmas.”

Tara, from B-Events and B-Audio Visual, also said, “We are delighted to be supporting fantastic local Leicester charity Wishes 4 Kids.

When we heard about their Christmas party being cancelled we immediately teamed up with the other Leicestershire business to ensure the children were not left disappointed. It is really important for us as a family business to help support local charities and children and their families and we can’t wait to be a part of their special day.”

Anyone that has attended a K Kong event in the past will know that they don’t do things by half and these kids will be in for an additional gift in the form of celebrity guests, including Steve Walsh and two Leicester Tigers Rugby Players.

For information on how you can help to support this amazing charity visit www.wishes4kids.co.uk or, if you need help organising an event of your own, enlist the services of the best: www.kkongevents.co.uk

JAGUAR XE Get ready to rewrite the rules. With its F-TYPE inspired design, the Jaguar XE is a wake-up call for every other car in its class. With an engine range that delivers thrilling performance and impressive efficiency, the XE redefines the sports saloon.

The Jaguar XE Prestige from £349 a month on Personal Contract Hire plus initial rental of £2,080*.

36 Month Term. Model pictured (including optional metallic paint) from £356 a month, plus initial rental in advance of £2,136. Based on a mileage of 10,000 miles per annum. Excess mileage charges apply.

Contact us today to book a test drive.

STURGESS JAGUAR

445 NARBOROUGH ROAD, LEICESTER LE3 2RE

STURGESS.LEICESTER.JAGUAR.CO.UK 0116 4161437

Sturgess Jaguar is an introducer and not a provider of Contract Hire.

THE ART OF PERFORMANCE

Official fuel economy figures for the XE 163PS Prestige in mpg (l/100km): Urban 64.2 (4.4); Extra Urban 83.1 (3.4); Combined 75.0 (3.8). CO2 Emissions 99 g/km. Official EU Test Figures. For comparison purposes only. Real world figures may differ. *Important Information. Based on an XE Diesel Saloon 2.0D 163PS Prestige 4dr 16 standard specification, with a mileage of 10,000 miles per annum (30,000 miles in total), non-maintained. Credit approval, manufacturer’s price changes, volume related bonus and purchase through Jaguar Contract Hire Supplier Network.

The payment terms are 6 month(s) in advance, followed by 35 monthly rentals commencing in month 2 payable by Direct Debit. In the event of cancellation of an order, you will be liable for such costs to be confirmed to you in writing. Excess mileage charges (at 10.92p per mile). Must be returned in good condition to avoid further charges. Contract Hire subject to status. Over 18s only. The promotion cannot be used together with other manufacturer’s promotion and is subject to availability at participating Retailers only for new vehicles ordered by 31st December 2015. Contract Hire is provided by Jaguar Contract Hire a trading style of Lex Autolease Limited, Heathside Park, Heathside Park Road, Stockport, SK3 0RB. Vehicle shown is an XE Diesel Saloon 2.0D 163PS Prestige 4dr 16 with optional Glacier White paint.