Niche Magazine Issue 7 by Cross Productions

Fa s h i o n

B u s i n e s s

H e a l t h

Fo o d

We d d i n g

Issue 7

Belles Wedding

Inspiration to make your big day perfect Celebrating Leicesterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Success

Talk

Business Advice from the professionals

Lumiere Photography

If you know you want to change the way you look, you may want to take the first step. Come in and tell us your plans at Nuffield Health Leicester Hospital. We’ll listen and help you decide on the best way to get the results that you want, with the same consultant all the way through. So when you’re ready for the new you, talk to us.

Call us now to book a complimentary 10 minute chat with one of our consultants.

The Nuffield Health Promise Our all-inclusive prices are guaranteed We will meet any comparable price* There are no time limits on your aftercare**

For further information contact: 2

0116 2983241 Scraptoft Lane, Leicester LE5 1HY

patients paying for themselves. **Where possible, we promise to assist you to receive any follow up advice, treatment or care that is clinically required from your Consultant for as long further intervention and/or monitoring of a patient’s condition is deemed necessary as a direct result of surgical intervention.

10.

contents

19.

04. Wedding Belles

Launching the Niche Wedding Fair for 2015 we’ve got the essential guide for any bride to be; from beauty to venues and catering to dresses, we have the best bridal specialists on hand to help make your big day individual, inspired and enchant even the most irrepressible of idealists.

63.

27. Shopping for Love

February 14th is just around the corner and loved ones across the country will soon be searching for that perfect gift to say “I Love You”; when a box of chocolates or a bottle of aftershave just won’t cut it we’ve found some nuggets of inspiration to help you choose a gift worthy of wooing.

32. Spring Fashion

Get your fashion fix and make sure you are on trend for the new season with our inside intelligence from hair design through to bringing back the retro vibes in gingham. We’ll guide you through the key fashion trends for Spring/Summer 2015 which will keep you looking and feeling cool when temperatures start to soar.

25.

60. Property

It’s the biggest investment of our lives, so why go it alone? With our tips on finding the perfect estate agent for you and a glimpse of some of the hottest properties in the region, this issue we will help you find the right people to buy, sell and rent your houses in the region and offer up some exquisite properties for that extra inspiration!

85. 36. 98.

80. Fine & Fab Foods

Save 3%-7% on your shopping - with the UK’s most generous CashBack Card! Many members receive CashBack equivalent to 25% of their monthly household bills.

Good food is a luxury we all deserve and we’re taking a look at some of the finest foods, restaurants and suppliers in the industry. Getting your 2015 off to a delicious start, whether you have a sweet tooth or prefer a savoury sensation, we’ve got something to cater for CASHBACK every taste. EVERY MONTH!

90. Talk Business

If knowledge is power then we can help to empower you with hints and tips from Leicestershire’s best business men and women. Celebrating some amazing achievements and sharing plans for the New Year we’ve got plenty to keep you innovating in 2015.

R PA RT N

THE

david.goadby@goadby.co.uk

X TA

AT I

07736 146400

E HIP

Ask for details today! David Goadby

and many more!

SPECI

www.save-earnmoney.co.uk

Home Phone

Broadband

Mobile

Gas

Electricity

Claimed saving of 25% on household bills is based on the actual savings made by cardholders on their Utility Warehouse bills in April 2013 when over 4,000 members achieved savings of between 20% and 50%; hundreds more achieved even greater savings. A31

Charities of Choice

Company Director: Jenny Cross - jenny@crossproductions.co.uk Operations Director: Leanne Baker - leanne@crossproductions.co.uk Design: Rachael Bambrough - design@crossproductions.co.uk Journalist: Sarah Bladen - editorials@crossproductions.co.uk Media Account Manager: Sally Smith - sally@crossproductions.co.uk Media Account Manager: Emily Davison - emily@crossproductions.co.uk Media Account Manager: Emma Cross - emma@crossproductions.co.uk Media Account Manager: Tania Hollingsworth - info@crossproductions.co.uk Postal Address: Cross Productions, 17 Mandervell Road, Oadby, Leicester, LE2 5LR Distribution: Media Matters Direct www.mediamattersdirect.co.uk Published by: Cross Productions Ltd www.nichemagazine.co.uk Email: info@crossproductions.co.uk Telephone: 0116 2712573

NICHE 03

wedding

Belles Eve Lily

VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO VIEW SALE ITEMS

WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF

Main Stockists of: CONDICI, IAN STUART, JOHN CHARLES, LINEA RAFFAELLI - to name but a few SIZES 8-12 Over 2,000 stunning outfits for mums and guests Visit our website: www.dressini.com or email: info@dressini.com 9-11 Market Place, Market Bosworth, CV13 0LF Tel: 01455 290234

Dressini FPC.indd 1

02/12/2014 15:03

NICHE 05

Philip James Menswear Formalwear Hire

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

Wedding Gown Cleaning Just £65 + free box Terms and conditions apply

0116 2247144 www.superdrycleaners.co.uk

5 George Street, Hinckley, Leicestershire, LE10 0AL

85 Bla by R oa d, Sou t h W i gs t o n, L e i ce s t e r , L E1 8 4P B

01455 634323 pjamesmenswear@btinternet.com Free Customer Car Park

Open 6 da ys a w eek 9 a m- 5 . 3 0 pm. Lo cal C ol l ec t i on & D el i very

Simply Brides

Bridal Gowns & Accessories

Elizabeth Claire Wedding Dress Designer

Wedding and Bridesmaid’s dresses Cocktail and Evening Wear Men’s waistcoats and accessories

Individually designed to your choice 82 Rosebank Road, Countesthorpe, Leicester clairbee63@gmail.com

181 Blackbird Road, Leicester, LE4 0AL 0116 262 9260 06

Tel: 0116 278 4862 or 0777 3123 918

Pristine Events Leicestershire based Event Planning studio90two.co.uk hello@studio90t wo.co.uk @studio90two

Book your unforgettable experience with us today From full to partial planning It’s your day so lets have it your way!!

Simply Stylish Events provides a wide range of luxury handmade wedding invitations and stationery for brides throughout the UK and overseas. Visit www.simplystylishevents.co.uk for more information.

At Pristine we have a team of experts that want to get it right for you. We cover all aspects of organising your wedding; from the initial planning stages of finding the perfect venue, to the perfect button hole. Ensuring every last detail is in place on your perfect day. This is for couples that would like the expertise and support of a Wedding Planner to ensure their special day far exceeds expectations without the stress and time constraints of organising it entirely themselves. We offer a complimentary detailed consultation to understand your requirements and vision for the day.

info@simplystylishevents.co.uk 07985 379450

07736359955 info@pristineevents.co.uk www.pristineevents.co.uk

Take the pain out of wedding planning 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.” Eve Lily offers a range of services from helping you to 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 offer guidance and inspiration on how to begin. Once an initial theme has been established, the wedding design can start to be planned and 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 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. For more information please visit www.evelily.co.uk, email nicolamason@evelily.co.uk or call 07808 736281.

NICHE 07

michael grundy Jeweller

Designer

Goldsmith

Michael Grundy Jewellers we offer a bespoke service, which produces a unique product that certainly will not be reproduced on the high street. View the extensive range of unique jewellery crafted by the designer at the workshop or begin to set your own ideas in precious stone.

0116 274 5968 info@michaelgrundyjewellers.com

www.michaelgrundyjewellers.com 64 Queens Road, Leicester LE2 1TU

Sunday 26th April 2015 11am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3pm St Martins House

7 Peacock Lane, Leicester LE1 5PX FREE ENTRY First 50 brides to register get a fabulous goodie bag! Register online at Facebook.com/NicheMagazineUK If you would like more information, or to book a stand

please contact Emma on 0116 2712573 or 07792828904 or email emma@crossproductions.co.uk

chutney IV Y

Free Entry!

Jane’s Hair and Beauty 38 Kelmarsh Ave, Wigston, Leicester

“The Bridal Fayre”

Save the date!

0116 2812772

Chutney Ivy Boutique Wedding Fayre Sunday 1st March 2015 11 – 3pm Free Entry – Indian Canapes Welcome Drinks

We specialise in wedding hair...so let us pamper you on your big day! Either visit our salon or we will come to your home or venue. We provide all your hair and beauty needs including: - Hair - Make-up - Nails/Gel - Spray Tan

Win A Wedding Raffle! Music – Fashion – Entertainment – Glamour Call for more information 07711 043 901 Chutney Ivy, 41 Halford Street, Leicester LE1 1TR

To see our portfolio come in and see us or visit our wesbite

www.janeshairbeauty.co.uk

Ladies iridescence Hen Party Packages

The East Midlands Biggest...

Bridal Show

Bring all your friends, open the wine and prepare the nibbles, and we’ll bring to you our fabulous range of jewellery, handbags and scarves which are perfect for wedding gifts or a treat to yourself!

Truly Inspirational

Whether your dream wedding is a traditional affair or something more unique, you will find all you need by visiting our 100+ stands.

Our parties last about 2 hours which includes a party raffle and advice on how to wear our pieces with different outfits! Prices range from £6 to £35.

Sunday 8th February 2015 @ King Power Stadium Leicester City Football Club Filbert Way Leicester LE2 7FL

For more information and to book, contact

Samantha Houghton 07708953086 / 0330 223 3655 sam@iridescence.co.uk www.iridescence.co.uk

Showtime 11.00am to 6.00pm Prize draw for all brides attending the show: One week luxury accomodation anywhere in the world. Register online (T&C apply)

For stand booking & other info call RK M: 0796 0336780 T: 0116 2602187 or Email: info@thebridalshow.co.uk

Free Entry & Parking

http/iridescence.apply.li/applyli/microsite.php Please download and share for offers

Quality & Luxury Lingerie www.ever-so-sexy.com

01872 384459

info@ever-so-sexy.com NICHE 11

The very best in wedding venues We do love attending a good wedding, but we also know just how much work goes into planning for the perfect big day and finding the ideal venue for your budget, location and vision is the first big task on the ‘to do’ list. Whether you’re local to Leicester or further afield we’ve picked out a few of our favourite venues and a little inspiration to help you get started… Firstly you need to decide on is your geographical location, where are your family and friends located versus where you are? It needs to be practical for you to invite the guests you want to share your day with so consider travel times and hotel availability if any guests do have a long way to come. Your choices can seem overwhelming so it’s wise to consider the size of wedding and your budget before setting your heart on St. Paul’s Cathedral! Your wedding venue needs to emanate the right ‘feel’ for your special day, so you both need to visit a few potential venues before making any commitment. The staff and proprietors also need to click; after all these are the people who will be orchestrating your big day, so

make sure you meet the staff involved and feel comfortable that you’re in safe hands. Much like moving house, you will find a venue that just fits instantly; the people, the facilities and the location, so don’t panic there is a perfect venue for every bride and groom. From Cathedrals to golf courses your options are plentiful. We love Beedles Lake, located in the heart of Leicestershire’s Wreake Valley, this golf course and club holds stunning wedding receptions for up to 160 guests in their purpose built ‘Conservatory’ offering breath-taking views and spectacular photos. Still in Leicester but moving into the City Centre, St Martins House is a perfect wedding venue for guests to get to as well as offering the elegance of the Grand Hall, complete with vaulted ceiling and stained glass, as a perfect setting to celebrate your wedding day; and you can enjoy the grandeur of the Town Hall within a short walking distance for your ceremony.

halls and large hotels now have these, like the Berkhamstead Town Hall, Hertfordshire; with its Victorian Gothic façade and gorgeously restored and renovated rooms boasting their original features, this is a stunning venue which you can hold both the ceremony and reception at and be guaranteed some beautiful backdrops for your photos. Wherever you choose to ‘tie the knot’ make sure you fall in love with your venue and make sure it provides memories you can cherish for the rest of your lives.

If you’re looking for a venue where you can hold the entire day, ensure they have licenses to perform weddings and/or civil partnerships. Lots of town

Weddings at Beedles Lake Beedles Lake offers the perfect wedding venue and everything you need for a memorable day. Our private function room with breathtaking views can seat upto 160 people. The fantastic setting can also be enjoyed from the patio area next to our lake. Capture your special day with photographs around the lake and grounds. We have a reputation for providing superb food at great value be it fine dining or a buffet style menu.We can also offer BBQ and carvery menus. The function room has its own private facilities, PA sysytem and is fully air conditioned.

We look forward to hosting your special day and can ensure our best attention always. www.beedleslake.co.uk

Beedles Lake Golf Club, 170 Broome Lane, East Goscote, Leicester, LE7 3WQ 12

An education in elegance Choosing the right wedding venue for your

the natural lighting or just the personality of the

From beginning to end they make it their goal

tastes and requirements is a pivotal decision

building, through its grandeur the Hall retains

to provide the reception you’re dreaming of;

for any couple; the combination of the ‘wow’

a welcoming, intimate feeling which is perfect

from buffets and sit down meals, cocktails

factor, comfort and accessibility are all essential

for friends and family to dine and dance the

and canapés and your entertainment the team

when considering your location which is why

evening away.

are able to locate the very best solutions, that

we recommend a visit to St Martin’s House.

Leicestershire has to offer, as a result of the

A former Grade II listed converted Grammar

St. Martin’s House offer a dedicated Wedding

great relationships with local suppliers St.

School, located in Leicester’s Historic Quarter;

Co-ordinator to take care of every detail of your

Martin’s House has forged over the years

this skilfully transformed and stunning venue

big day, from table linen to catering, extravagant

offers everything you need to make your day

or simple, the team at St. Martin’s go the extra

“Over the years we have built up a great

extra special.

mile to ensure your day will surpass even your

numbers of reliable and brilliant suppliers and

expectations. “One of the most important things

caterers who are more than happy and able to

Originally built in 1877, the building itself

to us here is to offer a venue which caters for

take care of many of the aspects of your big day

still exhibits much of the exquisite Victorian

a couple’s needs. As a result of this desire we

so that you don’t have to.” Nick told us.

architecture synonymous with luxury and fine

often surprise people in our commitment to this:

workmanship. The Grand Hall boasts a high

we really mean it. If you want certain catering,

For a beautiful venue with exceptional service to

vaulted ceiling and elegant stained glass

décor or specific equipment, we will do our

ensure your big day is everything you dreamt of

windows, offering a truly amazing location for

utmost to make it happen.” St. Martin’s House

(and more!) take a look at www.stmartinshouse.

you and up to 200 guests to enjoy your wedding

Manager, Nick Quinn, explained.

com or go and visit, you will be so glad you did!

reception. What is magical about the Grand Hall is the ambience, whether this arises from

City Centre Wedding Chic Providing the ideal backdrop to your city centre nuptials, St Martins is the perfect cosmopolitan mix of being in the heart of a city you love with all the perks of its excellent transport links for your guests and a bright, bustling wedding day feel.

www.stmartinshouse.com 01162615200

7 Peacock Lane

L e ic e s t e r

LE1 5PZ

NICHE 13

Set in 17 acres of magnificent scenery, nestled in the North York Moors National Park, Ox Pasture Hall Hotel is an idyllic rural retreat for anyone wanting to escape the rat race of normal life, whether as a romantic getaway or a pampering weekend, Ox Pasture will not fail to enchant any guest. Regarded as one of the most romantic hotels in Yorkshire, this luxurious country getaway is the perfect location for an anniversary or getaway as our own Company Director, Jenny Cross, discovered. “We drove up a majestic looking driveway through the beautiful moors and were absolutely delighted when we arrived. The venue is exquisite and we were greeted on arrival by a lovely girl called Rosie who showed us straight up to an impressive suite with a huge bed, lounge area and a stunning bathroom complete with walk-in shower and matching his & hers sinks; we did manage to pull ourselves away from our little haven though and explore what else the hotel had to offer!” Jenny enthused. Relaxing by a roaring log fire for a glass of fizz before dinner offered the perfect opportunity to relax and soak up the romance before heading off for what Jenny described as an “out of this world” dinner. This former country farmhouse, with complete compliment of barns and outhouses, equals the beauty of the surrounding landscape and is tastefully indulgent; affording the perfect opportunity for you and your loved one to enjoy a departure from day to day duties and revel in the comfort and opulence that Ox Pasture Hall Hotel are experts at providing. To book your escape to the country visit www.oxpasturehallhotel.com we can guarantee you will not be disappointed!

Make your wedding extra special with a style of entertainment which engages all ages and provides an unmatched professional feel. All of our casino games including roulette, blackjack and poker are purely for fun, although a bottle of champagne is provided for the overall chip leader at the end of the night. Uniquely our croupiers are chosen for their personalities and make the games accessible to first timers whilst also providing the true casino experience. 01162 364 481 info@royalflushevents.co.uk

www.royalf lushcas ino.co.u k 14

At Sharons Sugarcraft we produce high class quality wedding, and celebration cakes made to order. Choose from sponge, chocolate, fruit, lemon, coffee.....the list goes on and accommodates any of your taste buds desires. So for sweet goodness on your wedding day visit www.sharons-sugarcraft.com or contact Sharon on

07789 742635 or email: sharons_sugarcraft@hotmail.co.uk

The great escape After the build-up to the big day and the magic of the celebrations, people often get post-wedding blues when it’s all over. Whether jetting off straight away, or delaying your honeymoon, having a fantastic holiday to look forward to gives you something else to get excited for. As your first trip away together, your honeymoon needs to stand apart from other holidays you’ve taken as it will be remembered for years to come. But sometimes, with all the planning you need to do for the wedding, you don’t have time to look into options. Instead of just settling for the first thing you see, why not enlist an expert and save yourself precious time; they can take the hassle out of the process for you and often save you money. Independent travel companies also don’t have any restrictions on the holidays they source for you meaning the world really is your oyster. Designer Holidays can help make that experience truly unforgettable. Their team of over 30 experts are there to guide you every step of the way to ensure that you pick the perfect experience. They offer a bespoke travel service so that before, during and after your holiday, there is always someone there to look after you. They have cruise experts who can book you on more specialist cruises, giving you something different. Or you can chose to go to any corner of the globe with trips to long-haul destinations like Africa, Asia, Australia, India and the USA. They also offer breaks to Europe if you want a shorter flight, including to beautiful locations in Italy, Spain and Greece. They offer you the top hotels, making sure you are treated like royalty during your break and giving you a much-needed opportunity to relax after the buzz of the wedding. Why not also try a different experience while you are away as well? For those that like extreme sports, lots of locations offer bungee jumping, sky diving or parasailing which is made even more magical by beautiful settings. If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, why not try a guided walk and discover a city’s beautiful history and architecture, or set sail on a boat trip and visit some remote island.

Honeymoons/Beach Holidays/Family Holidays/Cruise/Safari/City Breaks/Singles/Solo Holidays plus much more...

Designer Travel Tailor-Made Holidays by the Experts My name is Sue Todd. I have over 15 years experience in the travel industry. I use my contacts and extensive knowledge of the travel industry to offer my clients a competitive and professional service. I would be delighted to help you plan your next holiday. We are an independent company and offer you full financial protection. Contact 01455 213590 or 07938547261 Email sue@designertravel.co.uk www.facebook.com/SueDesignerTravel www.designertravel.co.uk/suetodd

Wedding Flip Flops are the perfect wedding favour when you're planning a wedding or hen night. Allow your guests to enjoy themselves until the small hours when it’s time to kick off those heels and start dancing. A perfect solution to keep your guests smiling and their feet happy too.

Order today at www.weddingflipflops.co.uk enter code NICHE for an extra 5% discount.

NICHE 15

Leicestershire are experts at catering for any bride and groom, in any location and with any theme, with over 350 weddings and events to lay testimony since they were established. With a passion for providing high quality food and hospitality spanning across 3 generations of the Dimblebee family, Samantha Dimblebee (Head Chef), and her team have a heritage to be proud of and in only a short period of time their personable approach, style and fabulous food has earnt them a distinguished reputation throughout the East Midlands.

Beautiful Bridal fare from Dimblebees Planning the perfect celebration for your special day involves many aspects and potentially many companies, and with a large selection of suppliers in the market it can become a daunting task for any bride to be. The focal point of the day will inevitably be the ceremony however, the majority of the time spent celebrating your vows and your future will be spent after the ceremony; whilst you cater for your guests and enjoy some revelry at the reception. So you want to ensure that the day and evening are spent in style and that is where amazing companies such as The Dimblebee Catering Company are a bride’s best friend. Founded in 2011, these family run caterers in

Specialists in providing handmade, homemade fare with a traditional English flair and promoting only the best in local suppliers, The Dimblebee Catering Company pride themselves on quality, flexibility, great service and great style which has seen them cater for prestigious venues and clients such as Newstead Abbey, Wollaton Hall, Aston Martin, and The Guildhall Leicester to name a few. The team at Dimblebees are exceptional at what they do and as, for most, this will be the first time you will have planned a wedding, having a team of highly professional, knowledgeable and enthusiastic caterers on hand is hugely advantageous. Together Sam and Dimblebee’s will work with you to choose the ideal menu for your guests, tailoring the perfect package to suit your event including linens, crockery, uniformed staffing, equipment

and bar hire – no egos, no gimmicks, just the best in friendly and professional high quality service. Their continuing motivation to exceed customer’s expectations and to help make the most important day of your lives one filled with memories and merriment has deservedly secured Dimblebee Catering accolades from across their industry, including Winners of the Wedding Industry Expert Awards 2014, Regional Finalists at the 2014 Wedding Industry Awards for the second year running, and Finalists for the 2014 Food Awards England & Wales, Dimblebee Catering have a legacy of the most beautiful brides and grooms recommendations “We cannot thank you enough for everything you did to make our wedding day so very special. We could not have wished for better people to work with, and no words can describe our gratitude; everything was perfect, from setting up the tables the day before to the end of the day. The food was stunning and presented beautifully and many of our guests have said it was the best wedding catering they have ever experienced.” Mr & Mrs RobertsMorrow www.dimblebeecatering.co.uk Tel: 0116 2835626 Email: info@dimblebeecatering.co.uk

Quality Outside Catering & Wedding Caterers in Leicestershire & the Midlands 07811 232801

info@dimblebeecatering.co.uk

www.dimblebeecatering.co.uk

NICHE 17

HS jewellers has a luxury selection of beautifully crafted jewellery, specialising in Wedding and Engagement rings.

Get in touch for more information or to discuss the unique engagement or wedding ring of your choice.

www.hsjewellers.co.uk Tel:0845 2000 314 18

Your Perfect Day Wedding Photography Jyoti & Nerav got married In November 2103, at The Beautiful City rooms, Leicester. They had chosen me because of my artistic, yet documentry style of photography and we came up with a number of ideas of how to capture their Perfect Day. The couple are mad on camping (and actually own their own camper) so I was really happy to be able to include this in their photography. I wanted to use the energy and colours of the city around them, as well as the weather conditions to create some really beautiful images, and judging from their comments below we definately achieved that. "We just cannot stop looking at our photos - over and over and over again! We just LOVE them. Chris you are actually amazing! We cannot express how over the moon we are that we chose you. It really was a perfect day for us both - we loved every minute of it and your photos just capture the moments to perfection so that we can continue to remember it just as it was - THANK YOU!" Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d advise any brides and grooms looking for something extra special or unique for their photography to definitely have a conversation with us about how we can work together. Your Perfect Day Wedding Photography by Chris Denner For all enquires please email info@yourperfectday.me.uk or visit www.yourperfectday.co. Ring Studio: 0116 261 6826 Mobile: 0796 604 2055

Leicester based Wedding Photographer, for those who want a modern, personal touch to capture those special moments. Prices start at ÂŁ250 www.taylormade-photos.co.uk

NICHE 19

Wedding Industry Awards The Wedding Industry Awards for 2015 upon us; a must have for the very best wedding suppliers in the industry. Comprising of 26 categories with both national and regional awards,- the Wedding Industry Awards are open to all wedding suppliers in England and are judged by a selection of experts to ensure the most rigorous and credible judging process. From cake makers to wedding venues the awards recognise outstanding achievements and services provided by the very best in the business. The awards are split into 7 geographical regions for which each category will receive a regional winner who will then go on to the national award finals with winners announced in January. “It is not simply about the total number of votes received (just because one wedding supplier does more weddings than another doesn't necessarily mean that they are 'better'). So, each entrant’s average voter score will be calculated and used throughout. The proportion of each entrant’s eligible voters who vote will be also be taken into account where necessary and applicable. Use of each entrant's average voter score enables suppliers of all sizes to compete on a level playing field. This is a vital aspect of these Awards” If you are or, if you have experienced, the services of an amazing supplier, dedicated to helping give you the best day of your lives then assisting them in attaining this sought after accolade could be a wonderful thank you and make sure other couples can continue to benefit from their care and expertise. To find out more about the awards and to nominate your supplier/s visit www.the-wedding-industry-awards.co.uk

George Simpson is a talented and award winning singer, acoustic guitarist, pianist & DJ based in Leicestershire. George perfor ms nationwide and even abroad and is renowned as one of the top solo artists in the UK. George provides a range of services perfect for the day or night, whether it be perfor ming a bride and grooms song choices during the ceremony, a relaxed set on the piano during the drinks reception, a set on the guitar through your wedding breakfast or some upbeat acoustic sets in the evening combined with a full DJ service or full live party band! George has vast perfor ming experience and has won the East Midlands ‘Best live act’ in the 2014 Industry Wedding Awards.

BRF Classic Cars Vintage and classic cars of style and grace. Beautifully presented and driven by a family run and an award winning business. Contact us for your personal quotation. brfclassiccars.co.uk – 07971434463 – brfclassiccars@live.co.uk

07817 388223 george@meltonmusic.co.uk www.georgesimpson.net

Richie Sampson’s The Drifters Revue Support act on stage at 9.30pm till 10.15pm Main Act starts 10.30pm till close Led by Richie Sampson, who has performed regularly with long-standing members of The Drifters such as Ray Lewis, Billy Lewis, Butch Leak and Roy Hemmings, The Drifters Tribute Revue breathe new life into so many of those original classics. First formed in 1953, the passion behind The Drifters’ music defined an era as they became one of the most successful and enduring vocal groups of all time and cemented a well-earned place in The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Richie Sampson’s The Drifters Tribute Revue pay homage to some of the band’s legendary early members, such as Clyde McPhatter, Johnny More and, of course, Ben E King, who went on to enjoy enormous solo success after his stint with the group. Relive the magic of ‘Under The Boardwalk’, ‘Save The Last Dance For Me’, ‘Up On The Roof’, ‘Kissing In The Back Row Of The Movies’ and many, many more. “Richie Sampson’s – The Drifters Tribute Revue” is licenced to trade Worldwide by Treadwell Original Drifters LLC, Treadwell Drifters Inc. Prism Music Ltd (“PMG”) & Clinton Solicitors. tour dates - catch the drifters Tribute revue at these venues Sat 31 Jan

Didsbury

£15

with Diana Ross by Tameka Jackson

Sat 7 Feb

Coventry

£15

with Diana Ross by Tameka Jackson

Sat 21 Feb

New Brighton

£15

with Diana Ross by Cherie Jade

Sat 28 Feb

Reading

£20

with Diana Ross by Tameka Jackson

Sat 7 Mar

Bolton

£15

with Diana Ross by Tameka Jackson

Sat 14 Mar

Riverboat, Glasgow

£10

no support

Sat 28 Mar

Gunwharf, Portsmouth

£20

with Diana Ross by Cherie Jade

Sat 4 Apr

Blackpool

£15

with Diana Ross by Tameka Jackson

Sat 11 Apr Stockton

£10

with Diana Ross by Tameka Jackson

Sat 25 Apr

Sheffield

£15

with Diana Ross by Tameka Jackson

Sat 9 May

Thanet, Kent

£15

with Diana Ross by Tameka Jackson

Find out more at www.richiesampsonsrevue.com or call 07746 118 402 or contact Champions PLC.

That’s entertainment When you are planning your wedding, there are lots of things to remember and organise. Top of the list will be the venues, the guest list and the all-important dress. Add to that things like wedding cars, flowers, a photographer, suits and bridesmaids’ dresses and it’s all too easy to forget some things in the pre-wedding planning panic. Entertainment at weddings is often something that is overlooked or not properly thought through but it can have a big effect on your day. With the wedding party being so busy, and often being pulled in lots of directions, it’s easy for you to forget that for some guests it might feel like a long day. The last thing you want is for your guests to be bored or to feel as though they are sitting around for big gaps doing nothing while you are off having photographs or mingling with other guests, so it’s good to put some budget aside for some type of entertainment in the day, from a band or a musician.

Dance the night away with Midlands Pro DJ The party element of your big day is what many of your guests will remember and talk about for years to come, and what makes a party get into full swing? The music of course! You need to get your guests moving, get their arms in the air and their heels off…Midlands Pro DJ’s are the perfect music team to get the party started - and to keep it going til the end! A quick chat with the team will encourage you to book right away, you will quickly see that their infectious energy and enthusiasm means your party will be nothing but fun!

Call: Bryan McIntosh : 07929452287

Ian McIntosh : 07875290818

Email: info@midlandsprodj.com

www.midlandsprodj.com

Make your entrance to the Big Day a memorable one No matter the location or theme for your wedding day, making your entrance as the blushing bride and revealing your beautiful gown is a moment you and your guests will remember forever and the transport you choose is just as important as keeping your footing.

Arrive in style for your wedding. carriages also available.

Organising the DJ for the evening entertainment is often something which gets left to the last minute as well but the DJ can help make or break the evening by either getting guests up and dancing or, in the worst case, playing songs that clear the dance floor. It’s important to have a DJ that reflects your style and sometimes your theme. If you are having an 80s themed wedding then a DJ that plays songs from that era is fine but if not it could put a dampener on your night. Make sure you put a bit of time aside to do some research into your DJ to make sure that they suit your musical tastes and needs. It’s good to get recommendations from friends but you can also ask DJs for a typical set list or ask them what their style is. It’s also good to be clear on what is included in the price as some people may ask for additional money for lights, backdrops or special dance floors and if they are bringing anything unusual, make sure that you clear it with the venue first. The venue might also be able to help with recommendations but try not to stick to the first name they suggest, you need a DJ that you will enjoy and who will make your night memorable for all the right reasons.

Vintage Luxury For pure indulgence and a classically elegant arrival the luxury brands of Rolls Royce, Bentleys, and Jaguars are synonymous with delivering brides to their destination in comfort and style; whether it be a classic model such as the Rolls Royce 31 or a modern alternative like the Bentley Continental Flying Spur, you are guaranteed an arrival that will leave your guests speechless. Or, if that is not quite traditional enough for you, you can enjoy some of the decadence seen at the Royal weddings with the hire of a Horse and Carriage from Rustic Occasions; turn up in style in the American Surry which has huge cream wheels and mudguards with plush leather, midblue seats and a hood, plus decorations to coordinate with your colour scheme or, try the reproduction Victorian Wagonette which has 2 bench seats facing each other and seating up to 4 adults and with another bench seat at the front for the driver and groom and possibly a small bridesmaid as well.

Contemporary With so many stylish contemporary alternatives out there to whisk you away to your wedding, you might be spoilt for choice, but you can be certain there will be something on the market to suit your personality.

0116 2779977 www.rusticoccasions.co.uk 22

From a VW Campervan to Cadillac there are many chic/retro vehicles out there to hire and we love the traditional red buses and black cabs we found on our searches; but we also came across something a little bit different which are fantastic and those are the NYPD and Texas State Trooper police cars from American Police Cars (we’ve even had a visit and they went down a storm!) and if you really want to turn up with a difference, check out some of the tractors especially decorated for wedding hire, at least you know it’s all terrain.

NICHE 23

Looking out of the window at the grey skies you are probably thinking that summer 2015 is an age away; but if you are due to become a summer bride the days of preparation will be spiriting away. We know how important a beautiful reception and stunning pictures are on your big day and that’s why we love the elegance and outstanding backdrop that St. Martin’s House can provide.

A beautiful backdrop for the Bride & Groom

The 12 metre high vaulted ceiling complimented with the traditional Victorian stained glass will offer a truly magical location for your reception, with a fully stocked bar in the hall itself and a variety of seating arrangements both inside and outside the Grand Hall, you can be assured that your big day will be one of comfort, style and sophistication. Continuing in this manner St. Martin’s house is located by the exquisite scenery of the Cathedral Gardens, with superbly kept grounds including water features, stunning botanicals and a Richard III statue; these gardens provide the perfect setting for your bridal shoot as well as open-air seating for your guests to enjoy whilst you capture those perfect moments. “The gardens are a very exciting local addition for us and our guests; they can be enjoyed by so many people and provide a wonderful environment for guests to relax in. Great for photos and perfect for a breath of fresh air, they really help to complete the area” Nick Quinn, St. Martin’s House General Manager enthused. To visit St. Martin’s House and witness the views of Leicester Cathedral and the Cathedral Gardens for yourselves, contact www.stmartinshouse.com or call 0116 2615200. “It’s never too early” is a saying often banded about; when it comes to your estate and inheritance planning it is definitely true. Simply put, there is no point having a Will in place unless it works effectively for your family when you need it to, after all it is only going to be used once, so knowing where to go to get it done right first time is crucial. Will Planning Solutions are a full member of the Institute of Professional Will-Writers and operate to a strict Code of Practice endorsed by the Trading Standards Institute, to give you that peace of mind knowing you are dealing with a competent professional. Whatever your needs, getting the right advice to suit your circumstances is essential, we can help you on all aspects of inheritance planning from Will-Writing to Powers of Attorney to Prepaid Funeral Plans to Care Home Fees, Inheritance Tax and Probate.

Rob Abell MIPW ACMA

Peace of mind is all in the planning

Brooklands Chauffeurs

Speaking of which, the World of Probate is equally as complex; most Wills appoint family members or friends as Executors and Trustees and whilst they may be capable of most of the tasks involved, it is unlikely they will be familiar with peculiarities of this archaic legal process. We can take the strain off you without it costing anywhere near the fees a typical High Street Solicitor would charge. We provide a full consultation service in the comfort of your home and endeavour to use plain English; we offer realistic prices and would be delighted to share with you any of our client’s written testimonials to the way we approach our work. To be confident about what your Will can and can’t do for you, contact Will Planning Solutions for impartial advice and support at www.willplanningsolutions.co.uk, or call 0116 2784862.

Compliant with the IPW Code of Practice

As a professional chauffeur of many years standing I am still very often astonished at how late brides and their wedding parties leave booking their cars as well as how little they want to pay. 01509 812 655 Here are my top three things when you start thinking about your wedding day cars; 07739 to 395consider 409 www.brooklandschauffeurs.co.uk

brooklandschauffeurs@gmail.com 1. The best really do get booked early. It’s true for venues, bands, DJs and outside caterers. It’s Welcome to Brooklands Chauffeurs. We are proud to offer a luxury Chauffeur with both private corporate alsoservice true working for wedding carsandand, as importantly, their drivers. Talk to companies early, tell them Arrive a style to the wholeexactly clients. We arein located in the heartbefitting of Leicestershire covering of the UK. Our passengers benefit from; what you are looking for and ask them exactly what their quote includes. When you find the A professional, friendly and bespoke service, in-car credit / debit card facilities with emailed receipts, a your big day one you like don’t delay - book them! selection of magazines and broadsheet newspapers, bottled chilled water, power inverter for laptop charging, safe and secure Wi-Fi connectivity.

2. Everyone has a budget but paying good money will ensure an immaculate car including ribbons and usually a bottle of champagne for the bride and groom. It will also ensure that your driver To take full advantage of the January sales we are offering a superb London Shopping Trip package. The package is is based on four people sharing a car and correctly and professionally attired, arrives early to collect the bride, groom, members of the being collected from the Charnwood area. This package includes; wedding party, knows the way and really does get you to the Church, stately home, synagogue, Collection and mosque drop off in London on time Meet just before lunch and put your shopping in the car Meet again at approximately for are the journey home.to 3. 16.00 If you travelling

an airport for your honeymoon considering talking to the company about that at the same time as you talk to them about your actual wedding day. If you are booking other journeys at the same time it will often do wonders for your budget as it gives the company assured Similar packages are available for Shopping Trips to other major cities. for prices. additional workPlease andcontact youusnegotiating power. Get the best by working with the company you choose Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your lives. Don’t leave it to the last minute to To take advantage of this offer, please contact Jay Dunkerley on 01509 812 655. ensure you get there! This is usually offered at a fixed price of £375 for the day. As readers of Niche Magazine we offer it to you for just £300 – cheaper, easier and more convenient than the train, and you don’t have to deal with tubes and taxis!

To find out more about how Brooklands Chauffeurs can get you to your big day, making the elegant entrance you’re dreaming of visit www.brooklandschauffeurs.co.uk

Wedding

Gifts

As the wedding season for 2015 approaches nerves are not necessarily reserved for the Bride and Groom, as guests and relatives frantically search for the perfect commemorative gift for the happy couple. A recent trend for newlyweds is moving away from the traditional lists of house gifts for guests to choose from, and encouraging instead donations to their chosen charities. So if your Bride and Groom are altruistic, watch out for a donation plate and take some cash with you on the day. For the more traditional at heart, you cannot beat a beautiful album for those snapshots of their perfect day to be revisited over a lifetime, or perhaps a keepsake box for photographs and trinkets like the Brides jewellery or ‘something blue’. Dependent on your relationship to the happy couple you may prefer a gift which is a more fun or more heartfelt, or a combination of the two. We love the Fingerprint Frame from I Do Wedding Gifts for a modern take on the guest book, or to be used alongside it, commemorating the day with your guest’s fingerprints made into an exquisite framed picture, the ultimate personalised gift! At a recent wedding we bought the new husband and wife ‘Mr & Mrs’ cushions with their new shared surname and we love the set of ‘Mr Right & Mrs Always Right’ hearts from Bespoke Gifts & Décor by Anita for something quirky, or you cannot go far wrong with some beautiful engraved champagne flutes (and a bottle of fizz for good measure). And not forgetting the guests, there are some great variations on traditional favours for the wedded couple to choose from; from the old favourite of sugared almonds revamped into mini-pails through to match boxes to celebrate the ‘match made in heaven’ you’ve been witness to or, for a bit of fun hangover survival kits (for adults only!). There are favours out there to suit every couple’s personality and leave guests with a token of the day they will actually want to keep! If you are having or attending a wedding make it reflective of your personalities and your relationships and make sure that your gifts are a treasure full of memories you or your guests can keep forever.

Bespoke designs for each and every bride Contact 0798 420 8981 facebook.com/hennabyanita Twitter - @hennabyanita Bridal - Parties - Events

Handmade loveliness for the special people in your life www.bespokeavenue.com

NICHE 25

Glorious

Gifts Humphreys

We love shopping for love February 14th is just around the corner and loved ones across the country will soon be searching for that perfect gift to say “I Love You”; when a box of chocolates or a bottle of aftershave just won’t cut it we’ve found some nuggets of inspiration to help you choose a gift worthy of wooing. Keeping it ‘au naturel’ Retain some of the tradition of Valentine’s Day with a ‘Name a Rose’ gift set, instead of receiving a bunch of pre-cut stems your partner can watch their own rose grow whilst your love blossoms and name their rose variety after something they’ll treasure forever (maybe even you). The recipient can register their roses name and receive a certificate and their rose variety ever immortalised for a floral gift with a twist; we also loved these quirky personalised message beanstalk seeds from ‘notonthehighstreet’, say what you want and watch the love grow! Old romantics For those of you that are true romantics and want to declare your love at every opportunity,

we love the personalised word art that is bang on trend at the moment with the added bonus that it’s possible to make at home, making it all the more special. Do you and your beau have ‘your song’? If you do, you could get the lyrics framed for a memorable musical keepsake or for the ultimate romantic, take a picture of the two of you and get this made into a jigsaw and reserving the other pieces present one to your loved one; the puzzle and piece are then put together symbolising that they complete you… aww! Radical romantics For men whose better halves are ardent followers of all things fashion, show your partner how much you love them with the greatest girl’s best friend, shoes. If you can get this right and

produce a fabulous pair of shoes on the day you have just secured your status as ‘a keeper’. When you have so many ideas you cannot begin to contemplate choosing there are always home-made hampers, this way you can collect an assortment of goodies you know your partner will love and spoil them rotten by giving them a little bit of everything. Magical memories It’s not only material goods our loved ones appreciate though so consider the options out there for experience days, spa days or getaways. You can enjoy making cherished memories and those will outlast any present.

Love is All You Need … Valentine’s 2015 Light hearted or romantic, Mclaggan Smith Mugs have a design to suit everyone’s style this Valentine’s Day. Each design can be personalised on the handle with a name or message (up to 30 characters) for an additional £5.00 making them a unique and personal gift. Each design is individually screen-printed onto a fine bone china mug in the UK and is available to order direct from www.msmugs.com or by phone 01389 755 655. Prices start from £9.00 for a standard (250ml) size china mug.

NICHE 27

Fit for a

Royal

Snuggle up between Royal Engagements with this super soft comforter featuring a soft crown, textured ribbons and baby’s name embroidered in silver. £18.50 from www.papucci.co.uk

Not to be outdone by our favourite royal couple, we’ve found a range of products that Will & Kate will be snapping up when they see this! Just because you’re not royalty don’t let that stop you from getting some inspiration for your welcoming your little Prince or Princess into the world.

A beautiful soft pink velour babygrow with sweet peter pan collar and front ruffle. It fastens simply with poppers at the reverse and legs. Also available in cream from www.halfpintchic.com £24

Let their imagination run wild with the Princess Castle Playhouse from Win Green. £200 available from www.wingreen.co.uk Small Prints Photography

AVAILABLE IN TWO SHADES OF GREY

Special Edition

Chocolate

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Award winning Carddies London set, the Card People to Colour and Go, are sets of engaging card characters to colour in, name and play with for hours. Recommended age 3 to 10. RRP £8.99 from the Carddies store at www.amazon.co.uk

hand made Chocolate Special Edition Chocolate is a small artisan company in the foothills of the Lincolnshire Wolds. Drop in to our chocolate shop for hot drinks, cakes and sample our handmade chocolate. We have lots of flavours for you to choose from and all our chocolate is Nut & Gluten Free and our dark chocolate is also Lactose Free.

01673 844073 Open 7 days a week The Chocolate Drop, Market Rasen, Lincs LN8 3RH

www.specialeditionchocolate.co.uk 09/05/2014 17:03

Valentine’s

Essentials

British Cassis is a fruit liqueur that is produced by Blackcurrant Farmer, Jo Hilditch. The perfect alcoholic mixers to complement white wine & champagne or can be added to food recipes. £15 www.britishcassis.co.uk/ 375ml

Ted Baker Residence home fragrance range - Each fragrance tells a different story and designed to take you on a unique worldwide journey. Candle (£28) diffuser (£35) both available from John Lewis.

Zippo Candle Lighter RRP £13.75 Light the candles for a romantic dinner! Stockist Timpsons or www.zippo.co.uk.

Ginvera Green Tea Nude Cover BB Cream. Natural flawless coverage resulting in an even tone and visibility more radiant skin. RRP BB Cream 25ml - £19, stockists include Harvey Nichols.

Mesmer-eyes this Valentine’s, Pretty For all the ladies that love thick lashes without all the effort, then Pretty is perfect for you. £4.49 from Superdrug

Wilkinson Sword Sparkle – perfect for feeling fuzz-free and fabulous during a romantic break away with your loved one. (Pack of 3, RRP £5.39) Available from Boots, Superdrug and other leading retailers.

Liquid deli Demijohn Raspberry Vodka, with its bright red colour and luscious red berry flavour, is a different AND delicious way to tell your loved one that you care. 500ml bottle full of Raspberry Vodka is priced at £28.80

Complete your Valentine’s outfit with Pretty Polly tights. Pretty Captivating, £10.00 from www.prettypolly.co.uk

DenTek’s handy Floss Picks and Case enable you to floss on the go so you can avoid having that awkward conversation of “you’ve got something in your teeth!”. £2.99 Boots

Sunkissed Bronzing Rocks. You want to look glowing, contoured and bronzed without looking like an oompa lumpa - the Sunkissed Bronzing Rocks are perfect for this! £5.99 Superdrug

Naughty Nude Lipstick - the ultimate nude cream lippy. The pale tones will help to enhance the colour of your skin and works perfectly if you want to make your eyes the focus of your look. RRP £13 from Push-Makeup.com

This February, Zoya Nails are here to help you achieve flawless finger nail art so that you can look fabulous. Colour: Blaze. Available in salons nationwide & at www.nailcareclub.com, £11.00 per bottle.

Complete your Valentine’s outfit with Pretty Polly tights. Pretty Smitten: £12.00 from www.prettypolly.co.uk

Patchwork Pate Hamper

Songbird - Wild Berries & Roses Candle. A distinctive blend of sweet wild berries and freshly cut roses, Songbird symbolises protection, poetry and love. 50+ hour burning time. £30 amoretpsyche.co.uk

BD Trade Secrets - BD gets a new look and new formulations. BD Trade Secrets Light Effect Concealer Pen, £7.99; Velvet Cream Lipstick, £5.99 and Finishing Powder, £5.99. Available exclusively at Tesco.com

Two Birds Spirits - A classic London Dry Gin, bursting full of juniper & citrus notes & to finish, the tightly-guarded secret ingredient which creates its unique flavour. From £28 for 70cl bottle www.twobirdsspirits.co.uk

A beautiful teardrop shaped white freshwater pearl pendant is added to a diamante heart for a little bit of sparkle. The essence of chic it will take you from day to night with a little bit of bling! £ 27.00 bishboshbecca.co.uk

Golden Ruby Ziosite Earrings £32.00 available from www.nad-designs.co.uk

Edna Valley Vineyard 2012 Central Coast Pinot Noir - the perfect gift for foodie dads. Available at Ma jestic RRP £12.99

NICHE 29

Mother’s day

Essentials

These luxurious, unique masks have been proven to increase the skin’s moisture saturation level by up to 92%. Available from www. jamelaskincare.com and www. amazon.co.uk at £49.50 for a box of 5 masks.

Let Wonder Woman light your way. This cool key ring with poseable arms and legs and light up feet is also the perfect gift for the Wonderful friend in your life too. SRP £6.99 Stockists include Accessorize

Case Logic tablet cases really are a sleek and stylish way to protect your iPad, iPad Mini, and Samsung Galaxy Tab 3. RRP £24.99 from Amazon

Danilo Gabrielli vintage inspired Faux Fur Pull Thru Scarf, inspired by the vintage mink stole, this scarf if the perfect addition to your wardrobe! £200 from www.danilogabrielli-store.com

SkinPep’s 4 Step Collagen Facial Glow Treatment. The 30 day set includes SkinPep’s 4 Step Treatment to boost your skins youthful beauty. Available from SkinPep.com and costs £82.33 for the 30 day treatment set.

Expert Skin Pearls® from Arkopharma – liquid collagen shots with added hyaluronic acid. £34.95 (for 10) and are available from health shops nationwide and online from www.healthy2u.co.uk

Good Food For Your Table is a grocer’s guide, By Melrose and Morgan: this is the shopping basket deconstructed, including all you need to know about seasonality, provenance, storage, preserving and serving the very

Chef Inspirations New Collection - Godiva’s Chocolatiers have taken the finest ingredients from all over the globe to create 6 chocolates to represent 6 countries. £26 from www. godivachocolates.co.uk

O’Keeffe’s Working Hands - hand cream aimed specifically at those people that work with their hands, works perfectly to protect and repair chapped and dry hands. £7.99 from www. uk.okeeffescompany.com

Stylish and unique Poppy Handbag, which is available exclusively from The Poppy Shop and costs £39.99.

The Ultimate Fix is a high-speed nail polish fixer that creates amazing chip-free, high shine, enamel nails. 50ml will treat approx. 12 manicures. £9.50 & available at Selfridges London, Urban Outfitters (Oxford Street), www.BeautyNarcotix.coms

Green & Blacks Tasting Collection - includes all our favourite bars from Green & Black’s Organic Burnt Toffee to Organic Sea Salt. RRP £11.99

Green & Blacks The Classic Collection RRP £5.49

Green & Blacks The Treat Collection RRP £5.99

NEW Jam Rewind Wireless Speaker (£79.99) HMV, Game, Argos - Go retro with the pocket sized Jam Rewind designed to look like a funky 80’s cassette tape offering fashion and function

Get shiny salon gel nails with the NEW Rokit kit. Rokit Gel Polish Professional Kit (£99.99) is available from select Debenhams and www.debenhams.com

Saviour for your soles with the new Elle Macpherson Heel Smoother by HoMedics. This handy little gadget gives you the perfect at home pedicure with salon professional results. RRP £19.99 available from Argos

Introducing Exuviance Triple Microdermabrasion Face Polish masters a triple action approach to skin renewal in a single powerful treatment with a unique blend of physical, chemical and enzyme rejuvenators. RRP £57.50

Caralicious is a blend of natural caramel and finest vodka, and although originally designed to be an after dinner liqueur, it has proven to be extremely versatile. £20.00 www.fabulousvodka.co.uk

Botanical Print Pendant - Pretty duck egg blue and white heart pendant with botanical print detail. £22.50 including gift box. www.itchgallery.co.uk

Mother’s Day Gifts Mother’s Day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate wonderful women who give us so much throughout our lives, and I for one could not be without my wonderful Mum. Mum’s, in my experience, don’t ask for a lot

Pollys

and really appreciate a thoughtful token of your appreciation, whether that be large or small. There are some beautiful gifts on the high street but with the trend moving towards the ‘handmade/craft inspired’ feel, why not unleash your inner Martha Stewart and make your Mum something this year? It is the ultimate in individuality and thoughtfulness and Mum’s everywhere are guaranteed a dose of nostalgia from when you were a child…a perfect combination. If you’re not confident in your artistic abilities, you don’t need to go the whole hog; why not add some personalisation to a gift to make it extra special? With just a few stamps, you can add a personal touch to a gift of good reads for Mum. Simply hold the pages together and use rubber stamps to decorate the edges with a special design or message, or why not get the kids to create a book of coupons for Mum to redeem for little treats throughout the year? Whether traditional or abstract the most important gift for your Mum this Mother’s Day is the recognition that she is amazing and very much loved; so think about what your Mum likes to do when she’s not looking after others and get crafting ideas for her to enjoy some well-deserved “Mum Time”.

Bish Bosh Becca has a wide range of jewellery designs, from classic to modern and contemporary designs. We also offer a bespoke service and we can create a necklace, bracelet, cuff or earrings that are perfect for you, your bridesmaids and flowergirls, as well as thank you presents for Mother of the bride and groom. Every order is sent gift wrapped, so it is one less thing for you to have to worry about.

For gifts and fashions that show you have put in that extra care, discover the wide range of luxurious fashionable goods at Polly’s. Find the welcoming boutique at: No. 15 Francis Street Online:

www.pollysonline.co.uk

Humphrey’s

Bespoke Leather Gloves

www.b i s h b o s h b ec c a.c o .u k

Be spok e Gl ov e s, Be spok e C are

0 7974 069245

www.humphrey sg l ove s.co.uk NICHE 31

runway

Rocks

Oscar de la Renta

Photo: Fabio Iona/Indigitalimages.com

40 36

Scan for Offers

3-5 Gallowtree Gate | Leicester | LE1 5AD www.modagreco.co.uk | 0116 2629201 NICHE 33

Spring Fashion

2015

With fashion houses and fashionistas across the world frantically working to make your Spring 2015 beautiful, we’re looking at some of the latest trends which appeared on the catwalks of New York, Milan and Paris this autumn so you can come out of hibernation and start your Spring 2015 preparation. From fabrics to fringes there is something to suit everyone, whether it be a full on floral outfit or some stylish suede accessories, your Spring 2015 wardrobe can be diverse and divine.

Top Trends From big and bold to dainty and discreet, florals make an appearance once again in this year’s Spring collections (as you would expect), with dresses through to hair accessories you can add some flower power to work wear, evening wear or festival chic; use as much or as little as you want, it’s all fabulously stylish! If florals are a definite no-go for you, don’t worry, there are bold geometrics, midriff bearing outfits (for the brave), cropped trouser suits and bohemian gowns to flatter any figure or occasion.

Fabulous Fabrics For many of us Gingham is reminiscent of our childhood and school dresses but this Spring it’s bouncing back into the limelight with gingham covering everything from baja minidresses to mink fur coats. Not to be outdone, our wardrobe staple denim is once again revamped with fresh styles for Spring 2014 in several iterations from dark wash to lace-up, bedazzled and more; denim once proves itself as the jean-ius of fabrics!

Awe-inspiring Accessories If you are anything like us accessories are an essential and they are an easy, affordable way to modernise any outfit; with aviator glasses revamped for 2015 and the cuff bracelet celebrating a renaissance, make your outfit uber-chic with a mock croc statement bag to put a spring back into your step after winter.

Michael Kors Photo: Yannis Vlamos/Indigitalimages.com

Oscar de la Renta Photo: Fabio Iona/Indigitalimages.com

Heavenly Hair & Make-up No outfit is complete without flattering make-up and a sleek hairstyle; from pretty, relaxed waves through to vampy red lips, they’re at it again with a style to suit any personality. Think Jamie Lee Curtis in True Lies inspiring a slicked back, pulled back look sure to turn heads showcased with the collections of Alexander Wang to Julian Macdonald, their model’s hair on the runways has been sleek and smooth. If the slick wet look is a bit too harsh for you, graphic braids and soft waves could be your saviours this Spring, with the ever-faithful ponytail appearing on most catwalks crimped, straight or messy and pretty plaits making an appearance for Michael Kors and Armani.

Fendi Photo: Yannis Vlamos/Indigitalimages.com

Miu Miu Photo: Monica Feudi/feudiguaineri.com

Moda G r eco Moda Greco is one of Leicester’s most established and renowned salons. Located in the city centre and still run by Gianni Greco, the salon offers everything your hair could desire; from a simple trim through to a full restyle, where you can add some colour or add length. Moda Greco are the experts, which is why we asked them how we could stay on trend for next season. There were a number of trends on the catwalk for SS15 including slicked back and sleek centre partings combined with low ponytails and distressed plaits, as well as the more laid back ‘next day hair’ as seen in the Chloe, Dries Van Noten collections. High trend will be the colour sensations known as ‘baby lights’. These are very fine, natural-looking, sun kissed highlights with more root area showing. This look is not just for beautiful blondes and is easily customised for our brunette babes and ravishing raven haired women. If you’re worried how your winter hair will cope with all the extra attention, take steps now to prepare for your Spring/Summer style. “Winter can take its toll on the hair and scalp leaving it dry and damaged so in the winter months hair needs extra care. Winter hair tends to lose its silky nature and is harder to style so use a nourishing shampoo and conditioner to add moisture to the hair. If you use straighteners or tongs remember that all important heat protection!” Gianni advised us. Or why not book in for one of Moda’s Kerastase hair treatments, featuring 16 combinations of pampering for your hair. At £10 they are an affordable add-on to any service with the results lasting up to 5 washes.

Don’t forget: new clients can get 25% off their first visit to Moda Greco. Call 0116 2629201 to book your next appointment. 3-5 Gallowtree Gate Leicester LE1 5AD

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Brooklands Chauffeurs

01509 812 655 07739 395 409 www.brooklandschauffeurs.co.uk brooklandschauffeurs@gmail.com

Welcome to Brooklands Chauffeurs. We are proud to offer a luxury Chauffeur service working with both private and corporate clients. We are located in the heart of Leicestershire covering the whole of the UK. Our passengers benefit from; A professional, friendly and bespoke service, in-car credit / debit card facilities with emailed receipts, a selection of magazines and broadsheet newspapers, bottled chilled water, power inverter for laptop charging, safe and secure Wi-Fi connectivity.

To take full advantage of the January sales we are offering a superb London Shopping Trip package. The package is based on four people sharing a car and being collected from the Charnwood area. This package includes; Collection and drop off in London Meet just before lunch and put your shopping in the car Meet again at approximately 16.00 for the journey home. This is usually offered at a fixed price of £375 for the day. As readers of Niche Magazine we offer it to you for just £300 – cheaper, easier and more convenient than the train, and you don’t have to deal with tubes and taxis! Similar packages are available for Shopping Trips to other major cities. Please contact us for prices.

To take advantage of this offer, please contact Jay Dunkerley on 01509 812 655.

Niche Bags

Bags of sophistication Founded just a few months ago in February 2014, Niche Bags is set to take the fashion world by storm; with a passion for drawing and some spare time Claire Bradshaw began designing bags as a hobby until a local Christmas show changed her career, and life. When a local hotelier commented on Claire’s bags and suggested she come along to their Christmas show last year little did she expect to walk away with over 13 orders on the day but with the elegance and quality of her collection it comes as no surprise to us that they were in demand, and Claire’s hobby soon evolved into a full time business. Motivated further after a ladies night out and the dilemma we all face between miniscule clutches or large practical bags, Claire wanted to design a range of limited edition evening bags which

would fulfil the middle market; offering designer quality at affordable prices, and it’s here she found her niche! With a purpose and passion all that was needed was the perfect name for her designs. Inspired by her maiden name ‘Nycz’, derived from her Polish Grandfather, and filling a hole in the market, Niche Bags were born (and personally we love the name!). Her initial designs were all named after her step-daughters and with sisters and friends galore requesting their handbag heritage, there are plenty more designs yet to come. Claire’s fashionable yet classically beautiful leather bags have won acclaim across the industry, and after X Factor Stylist Gemma Sheppard spotted them she’s given one to Tulisa from NDubz who has now been photographed with a Niche bag on more than one occasion. They also grabbed the attention of the Vitalise Woman of the Year Awards. Each design is hand-drawn by Claire and the fabrics are chosen personally by her. Her handbags are the epitome of style and sophistication and are exceptional quality, making them even more value for money. From modest beginnings Claire took her first

steps online, launching her website and social media channels in February 2014, and she is now inundated with orders for the exquisite handbags from her first and Christmas collections. Gradually expanding her marketplace, Niche Bags are now available in boutiques in both Newark and Lincoln, with approaches made from retailers in Africa and Italy ready for the New Year. Claire’s goal for the coming year is to continue to delight her customers with a new range of Spring/Summer designs, infiltrating her industry and enabling everyone to have the opportunity to flaunt their fashion credentials by launching Niche Bags into the department stores. In the meantime, to view the current range and sign up for the Niche Bags newsletter to make sure you don’t miss out on her upcoming collections, visit the website at www.nichebags.com

Putting a spring into your step

Spring can be a difficult time for our feet. It’s not warm enough to bare all with a classic flip flop but you’re ready to unleash your toes from the shackles of winter boots so we decided to seek out some gorgeous treats to put a spring into your step and get ready for some summer sandals. The catwalks provided plenty of inspiration as models stepped out in style across the globe. Here are our key picks from the shows for you to accessorise your SS15 wardrobe with: S himm ery If you’re not quite ready to let go of the festive season just yet, never fear as shimmery shoes are a definite must for the new season. Armani, Cavalli and the fabulous Christian Louboutin all embraced the glamour of glitter using it on platforms to killer heels emphasising the opulence of their brands with a subtle coat of shimmer. G o f unky

Valentino Photo: Marcus Tondo/ Indigitalimages.com

Balenciaga enciaga Photo: Courtesy of Bal

We saw lots of quirky designs in monochrome to multi-coloured and in every fabric you can imagine; from the ancient-inspired shoes from Fausto Puglisi, the whimsical butterfly-winged shoes of Lie Sang Bong and the woven and multi-coloured options from Alexander Wang – all capable of adding the wow factor to any outfit. Fr ing es, cowboy s and f e ath e r s Not just reserved for a hoe-down, fringes adorned the shoes for John Rocha’s collection and for maximum chic take a look at Oscar de la Renta’s glamorous and breath taking feathery straps, and the chic feathery hints from Dries Van Noten. Cowboy boots and masculine shoes are a great alternative to the winter boots too with striking colours and a trend towards reptile skins; you can make a powerful fashion statement whilst maintaining practicality and individuality. A bit of comfort Fashion doesn’t need to be painful and it seems our favourite designers have come around to our way of thinking with an array of comfy flats which maintain the high fashion without the high heel. With a variety pointy toed, fringed and cut out designs, the flats have undergone their SS15 makeover ready for you to do the same!

Mens Overcoat by Digel available at

Philip James www.tdwclothing.com

5 George Street Hinckley Leicestershire LE10 0AL

01455 634323 pjamesmenswear@btconnect.com Follow us on Twitter @pjmenswear www.philipjamesmenswear.co.uk

NICHE 37

health

& Beauty Eden Hall

Getting lean for 2015 It’s one of the top New Year’s resolutions and one that I’m sure many of

It’s not just a plate...

us have attempted but what will make 2015’s dieting resolutions stick? There are so many ‘miracle’ diets and supplements on the market these days that when you are looking for some help in shedding those Christmas excesses it can be difficult to know where to turn. The ‘dieting’ concept in itself is a simple one; eat a varied diet full of natural produce, limit your portion sizes and intake of processed foods and get moving to burn those calories and help your bodily functions work to their best. The difficulty is temptation and knowing which foods are good and which aren’t.

called ‘miracle’ diets try to offer in simple, effective doses.

...but an easy weight loss programme managed just by the eye.

Whether it be following a proven programme such as the Cambridge

Clinically trialled and proven to work you can eat anything you love to cook. The independent study proved that you are SIX times more likely to lose weight using the Diet Plate® and THREE times more likely to control Type 2 Diabetes.

That’s where the expertise of nutritionists and dieticians who create weight loss programmes become invaluable, and this is what the so

Weight Plan or simply cutting out sugars or excess carbohydrates, all diets designed for weight loss will involve cutting down on the chocolates and using your body more. There is no ‘miracle’ but these plans can make a daunting task easier to tackle and offer the added motivation and support of a community of like-minded dieters to keep you going. Whatever your goal for 2015 we wish you luck and don’t forget, diets don’t need to be painful to be effective!

Simple to use, it is “Portion Control made Easy.” There is a male, a female and a children’s version to chose from and a calorie bowl to complete the set, plus a 40 page booklet to help you and support from the company if you need it. Lose weight in private, prices start from just £15.99 for the bowl and £19.99 per plate, Save £5 on the set and it is FREE Postage too!

Buy from www.thedietplate.com or call us free on 0800 644 0166 Microwave and dishwasher safe. Made in England from fine earthenware.

Are you worried about your weight?

If you are,

Could be the answer Cambridge Weight Plan is all about choices, made by you to benefit you. Together you and yourConsultant will work out a plan that suits your lifestyle – helping you achieve the best results at the rate you want. So, why not make a positive decision to change your life for the better and contact me today. Your independent Cambridge Consultant:

Eileen Larder M: 07784 333851

H: 0116 2889229

E: eileen1943@hotmail.com www.facebook.com/CWP/EileenBryanL/info

NICHE 39

At Skindeep Laser & Beauty, we pride ourselves in offering a wide range of treatments using only the best products to make you look and feel your best! Skindeep's experienced and professional team use their expertise in Male and Female treatments to cater every treatment to your specific needs creating your own personal programme. We specialise in Guinot and Murad facials which are not only relaxing but also offer treatments for anti-aging, lifting, pigmentation scaring and acne.

“Love the skin you’re in”

Our extensive range includes the following: Laser Hair Removal (Medical grade) for all skin types Thread Vein Laser Treatment / Skin Rejuvenation and Skin Tightening Aesthetic Treatments Botox/Fillers and Dermaroller Award Winning 3D Lipo for inch loss and skin tightening Guinot Facials Murad Facials/Peels Microdermabrasion Calgel/Shellac Nails Massages We are here for all your beauty needs. Come & Visit us at Skindeep and indulge in our peaceful and luxurious treatment rooms to relax your body and mind. Why not call us today on Leicester 0116 2703555/Coventry 024 7633 2333 Or email us: skindeep@laserandbeauty.co.uk www.skindeeplaserandbeauty.co.uk Facebook - Skindeep Laser and Beauty

Mr T.K.Sankar

MBBS BTEC(Laser) FRCS(Eng) FRCS (Plastic Surgery)

New Year, New You

Another New Year and we all look for ways to better ourselves; how we eat, exercise, feel and look. The treatments we provide are there to help you achieve just that with the New Year providing an ideal opportunity to commit to a new you and investigate the ways you can get the version of ‘you’ you really want. Based out of the Nuffield Leicester Hospital we offer both surgical and non-surgical solutions to all your body image concerns; Give your image a boost and Improve your self confidence all in the comfort of Nuffield’s ultra modern hospital with private en-suite facilities. If you’re looking for a more drastic revamp we provide cosmetic surgery including breast enhancement using your own fat or silicone implants, Breast reduction, Breast Uplift, Body contouring / lift, Facial surgeries including Face lift, Neck lift, Eyelid reductions, Ear corrections, Liposuction or Lipo sculpture, Male breast surgeries, Tummy tuck, Arms &Thighs reduction and uplift etc. Or if you are looking to reduce the fine line and wrinkles we can offer you anti wrinkle muscle relaxing injections and fillers. We can also offer you consultations and removal of skin & soft tissue lumps and bumps without having to wait a long time. We believe that everybody should enjoy their body and we work with you to provide consultation and support to help you achieve body confidence, what better resolution for 2015 than to like yourself that bit better!? “Recently I have had Body Jet Liposuction done by Mr. Sankar. I found the result being amazing with very minimal discomfort and bruising.” Mrs. J. G Providing both experience and passion in the cosmetic field and assuring you safest practices and aim to achieve the optimum outcome. Make the first step towards the ‘you’ you will love in 2015 and send your enquiry to anne.bailey@nuffieldhealth.com After over-indulging at Christmas, a lot of people find themselves overweight in the New Year. If your skinny jeans no longer do up, or if you find yourself with some unsightly bulges then the Cambridge Weight Plan can help.

Take the worry out of weight loss

Cambridge Weight Plan Consultants Eileen and Bryan Larder have been supporting people with the programme since it launched 30 years ago so you know that they believe in what they do. Eileen said: “I use the plan myself to help her maintain my weight and to get in shape for special occasions. We’ve seen many success stories over the years and we love helping people to reach their target and then maintain their perfect weight afterwards.” According to figures from the National Audit Office in the UK, being obese can take up to nine years off your life. It also makes you far more likely to develop a range of health related problems including diabetes. Maintaining your weight through a supported diet plan is healthier and more cost effective than surgery. Some diets can lead to nutritional deficiency but the Cambridge Weight Plan, which is now approved by the NHS, is a scientifically formulated food that can actually improve nutritional status and help to maintain bone health. Often diets are hard to stick to as the choices are boring but there is flexibility in the Cambridge Weight Plans which means 'There is something to suit everyone'. Delicious soups, shakes, bars, vanilla rice pudding and porridge can be used as the sole source of nutrition or can be combined with conventional food for more gradual weight loss and weight management, with nutritionally balanced programmes ranging from 440kcal to 1500+kcal per day. Diets can also prove costly as well, but the Cambridge Weight Plan can actually help you save money on food costs. To start your weight loss journey, or book your no obligation consultation with the experts, visit http://www.cambridgeweightplan.com/consultants/02415/1/bryan-eileen-l, email eileen1943@hotmail.com or call 0116 288 9449.

Co s me ti c Surgery Clinic

• Breast Enlargement and Uplift • Body Contouring and Lift • Tummy Tuck • Liposuction • Nose and Ear Reshaping • Eye Bag Removal • Skin Lumps, Moles and Skin Tag Removal • Anti Wrinkle Treatments • Laser Treatments Fraxel Skin Tightening, CO2RE Resurfacing, Scars, Moles, Thread Veins and Birth Marks

All cosmetic Surgical and Non Surgical Treatments at Nuffield Health Leicester Hospital

Secretary: Anne Bailey Tel: 0116 2743718 Email: anne.bailey@nuffieldhealth.com NICHE 41

T o p 1 0 N ew Y ea r In 2014 61% of us decided we were perfect! Well, we decided not to make resolutions for the New Year according to YouGov.co.uk but after the gluttony of Christmas and New Year and the extra insulation we gain during the cold winter months, it’s not surprising that over 50% of those making resolutions were focussing on their health and diet. “51% say they intend to do more exercise or improve fitness, and the second and third most popular resolutions are related: 47% say they want to lose weight, while 41% say they want to improve their diet.” YouGov survey According to the research the UK’s Top 10 New Year’s resolutions for 2014 were these: 1. Do more exercise/improve your fitness 6. Quit smoking

2. Lose weight

3. Improve your diet

4. Save more money 5. Pursue your career ambitions

7. Decorate or renovate your home 8. Take up a new hobby 9. Cut down on drinking 10. Do more for charity

So with this as inspiration, what are the best options for 2015? Many people have come to the decision that New Year’s Resolutions are notoriously difficult to keep but with January being the busiest month of the year for most health clubs and gyms it would seem that some of us still use them. Personally, I like the opportunity that the New Year is a time to reflect on the past year and decide what you’d like to achieve for the next...why resolutions traditionally fail (in my humble opinion) is they are focussing on giving something up, why not turn it around so you’re gaining something, for you or a cause?

Based in the popular shopping arcade in Stoneygate Leicester, Beau Aesthetica have been providing treatments to make you look and feel exquisite for approximately 6 years; recently undergoing a thorough modernisation and refurbishment programme. Beau Aesthetica is one of the Midlands' most respected providers of cosmetic dermatology procedures.

Leading make-overs in the Midlands

The clinic has some of the most up to date equipment in Europe, enabling the highly trained staff to give the very best standard of care in the cosmetic surgery industry. The atmosphere is modern, fresh and clean whilst still being welcoming and instils a feeling of calm and confidence. From head to toe, Beau Aesthetica offers a range of treatments to pamper and perfect your face, body and feet whilst offering the perfect opportunity for a spot of relaxation whilst you undergo a revamp. Beau Aesthetica leads the way in cosmetic dermatology in the Midlands. It is one of the few clinics in the UK recognised as a training centre for other doctors. Dr Kam Singh is fully registered with the GMC and is a full member of the British College of Aesthetic Medicine and the World Society of Anti-Aging Medicine and is also the UK trainer for the Liposelection by Vaser procedure. All treatments will begin with an in depth consultation to assess individual needs; with experienced therapists and qualified medical practitioners in situ Beau Aesthetica can provide the best treatments from cosmetic surgery to HD brows and offer the assurance you are in the hands of the beauty experts. With celebrity visitors such as Hollyoaks Jessica Metcalfe, the proof is in the beautiful people you’ll see leaving the clinic each and every day after a rejuvenating treatment. To find out more and book in for your new look visit www.beauaesthetica.com Nuffield Health is well renowned as one of the leading providers of private healthcare in Leicestershire. Founded in 1969 from local community funds they have been home to experts in their specialisms for nearly 50 years.

Ready for a new you? You need to talk to Nuffield

Leicester’s Nuffield Hospital, based near Scraptoft has recently undergone further improvements with a £4m refurbishment, ensuring patients and visitors continue to benefit from the most up to date facilities and medical equipment. With more and more people considering cosmetic procedures from facelifts and abdominoplasty (tummy tucks) to ear pinning and breast augmentations, the consultants at Nuffield are able to advise and assist you in reinventing or rejuvenating yourself to become the best version of you. The consultant-led focus provides patients with the confidence and reassurance that your consultant will be alongside you from initial consultation through to aftercare, this continuity and personal approach has received a 100% customer satisfaction review with patients classing their treatment and care as ‘Excellent’ or ‘Very Good’ throughout. Boasting the highest standards of clinical care in state-of-the-art facilities, with Consultant-led treatment, spotlessly clean rooms, and a team of dedicated and experienced nurses; Nuffield Health is the preferred choice for patients wanting a timely, professional and comfortable hospital stay. If you are considering cosmetic surgery of any kind, take the first of your 5 steps to surgery by contacting Nuffield Health either online at www.nuffieldhealth.com/cosmetic-surgery or call one of the clinic’s team on 0845 287 9712. To find out more about Cosmetic Surgery and everything involved through your reinvention why not join the Nuffield team at one of their free events, held throughout the UK, you can find the nearest event to you by simply visiting www.nuffieldhealth.com/cosmetic-surgery/free-events and gain valuable insight before you make any decisions (or incisions!)

Stress - Are you in control of your life? Do you feel in control of your work-life balance? Are you working to live rather than living to work? It can be a real challenge to find that happy medium between your working day and your social hours, and you’re not alone. An increasing number of people are suffering from stress because they simply cannot find the right balance within their daily lives. Stress accounts for 8% of sickness absenteeism in the UK. (Office for National Statistics – September 2013) “Nearly two thirds of employees have experienced a negative effect on their personal life, including lack of personal development, physical and mental health problems, and poor relationships and poor home life.” (Mental Health Foundation survey - www.mentalhealth.org.uk)

That’s a staggering number of people and this problem has increased over the past few years due to the economic crisis. Many of us are expected to work longer hours, sometimes covering more than one role. What’s more, with smart phones now allowing 24 hour access to work emails, it can be hard to find a natural cut off from your working day. PRINT A5 Advert Portrait NM0115.pdf 1 15/12/2014 11:04:05

It’s good to talk If this sounds like you then it’s time to take action. Do you had a good relationship with your boss? Confide in them or find someone you can trust and talk to them about how you’re feeling. Sometimes it’s easier to talk about your problems with someone outside of your situation. Why not contact a trained counsellor or therapist and invest some time in finding the root cause of your stress, so you can learn to enjoy your life again? If you’re a business owner, make sure your team have a good work-life balance - if you don’t look after the health of your employees, you may find your business suffers in the long-run. A happy employee leads to a more profitable company. C

Make time for you: every now and then take time to do things you enjoy. Go for a walk, run, sing, shout, cycle or be creative with your favourite hobby or craft. Set aside a regular hour or two each week where you can take a relaxing bath and read a book. Are you getting enough sleep? Make sure you keep to a regular sleeping routine. Y

Imagine your life pain-free, without pills, and being able to do the things you love. If you suffer from back or shoulder pain, you may not realise how much your body compensates to avoid further pain. Chronic pain can have many causes, including stress, and can prevent you from getting the most out of life. Body Logiq specialise in combining multiple therapies, as there is rarely a single fix when it comes to pain. We will check your posture, review your lifestyle, find the root cause of your problem and provide a tailored combination of therapies to suit you. Would you love to be pain free? Would you like to move through life with ease?

Take an easy step towards a healthy pain free life today.

CMY

NM0115

Spend time with your friends and family. Diarise life events as you schedule meetings in your work diary, and stick to them. Being in control of your life means you can take control of your work-life balance. The more in control you are, the less stressed you will feel and the healthier you will be.

"I felt the pain melt away" Melanie W.

Karen Chappell, Body Logiq 07917 410 770 www.bodylogiq.com

NICHE 43

Rejuvenate your mind and body this New Year

New Year is a time of celebration and

treatment from Hollyoaks to Hollywood, so what

skin breakouts, lethargy and that feeling that

actually is it?

something’s not ‘quite right’; through helping

to start afresh. Kick start your 2015

Put simply colonic hydrotherapy uses water

the burden on other organs such as your liver,

feeling re-energised by rebalancing

to stimulate the colon; the colon takes in as

reflection for many and a chance

your body, inside and out. Detoxing is a great way to give you the ultimate health and beauty boost and motivate you to fulfil those New Year’s resolutions. Detoxing from time to time is a great way to rid your body of toxins which accumulate over time and by doing so offers immediate benefits such as increased energy, better skin, relief from headaches, bloating and indigestion and can even help prevent weight gain by helping your body work more efficiently. With the multiple benefits and the increased sense of well-being a detox can provide we’d recommend some form of detox to anyone feeling a bit lethargic after all the festivities and what better way to initiate the new you project for 2015 then with the help of a treatment of colonic hydrotherapy!? Colonic hydrotherapy is a more advanced, natural version of the older colonic irrigation and with a lot less stigma and discomfort attached. In fact, celebrities across the world have been declaring their appreciation of the

much water as it needs and releases the water together with toxins and waste trapped in the

the body to eliminate waste you are lightening kidneys and lungs (all waste eliminators) and can literally feel the effects straightaway.

bowel.

With ambience created from candles, fresh

Beau Aesthetica, based on Stoneygate in

selection of CD’s and DVD’s for you to choose

Leicester, are experts at making beauty the norm for every shape, sex and size and so it is no surprise that their exclusive spa facilities host the latest technology and treatment to deliver clients a relaxing, rejuvenating treatment. The therapists at Beau Aesthetica are specialists in bringing a fresh approach to colonic hydrotherapy to the city; combining a natural approach to cleansing and detoxifying with the latest equipment and expertise. The spa-like treatment rooms offer a comfortable and soothing environment to provide a holistic experience, cleansing your mind through relaxation whilst your body is indulged in the ultimate rejuvenating experience. When the colon, liver or kidneys are not functioning properly or as efficiently as they should this can lead to discomfort, bloating,

flowers, mood enhancing scents and a from, their friendly, professional Therapists offer you a full consultation before commencing your treatment; and unlike traditional colonic irrigation the LIBBE device they use does not require their attendance throughout, offering more privacy and discretion for their clients whilst the treatment takes place. “Because of the continuous inflow and release during the treatment, the body’s own muscles are used to provide a more natural, gentle release. At the same time, the peristalsis

(action of the muscles of the colon) is greatly stimulated and this provides an excellent

workout for the colon. Because of the nature of the LIBBE device, the therapist does not need to be there with you all the time. This affords

you as much privacy as you may desire. We

use highly filtered water which passes through two separate filters before being heated to

the correct temperature. This filtered water is

to offer Lipo Selection by Vaser

Lipo Selection an exciting revolutionary procedure for body reshaping which targets just the fat cells you want removed. It uses the latest technology to gently dissolve fat cells and remove fat in your thighs, hips, abdomen, love handles, knees, back, arms, neck and chin. Dr Kam Singh is the first Doctor in the Midlands to perfect this treatment and is the only trainer in the Midlands. Lose inches with the only clinical treatment to reduce cellulite.

Endermologie:

capable of absorbing and flushing more toxins

Do I Need To Do Anything Before

waking up in the without having out of the Imagine colon because of its drawing effectmorning Having A Colonic?

to spend time applying your eyeliner, lipliner or this can be easily achieved and those perfectly applied eyebrows Am told us. Since your abdomen will be massaged it is a striking eyes and lips will remain smudge free day and night. on solid particles, chemicals other matter.”All perfecting yourandeyebrows.

An average treatment lasts for approximately 45 minutes, dependent on the judgement of the

good idea to eat or drink lightly in the 2 hours

immediately preceding a colonic. Also helpful, but not essential, emptying the rectum with a

✓ All consultations are FREE! bowel movement just prior to the colonic saves

Therapist and the client’s wishes, followed by changing and preceded by your consultation

✓ Dr Based Clinic

so we would recommend booking an hour and a half for your first treatment to give you plenty of time.

✓ Colon Hydrotherapy

time and permits more to be accomplished.

Is A Colonic Painful? It rarely is. Usually, painful experiences are the

✓ the Janteam Marini Skin Rejuvenation We asked at Beau result of resistance and tension. A professional colon therapist is skilled at putting you at your Aesthetica some common questions ✓ Laser Lipolysis ease and minimizing discomfort. Most people we know come to mind when actually enjoy the colonic and are especially considering a colonic treatment: ✓ Lumps Bumps and Mole Removal pleased with the unaccustomed sensation

of feeling lighter, clean and clear afterward. Will A Colonic ClearRelaxing Up My Skin? ✓ Muscle Injections

Sometimes during a colonic, the colon muscles

Your skin actually “breathes” and is an

will contract suddenly expelling considerable

✓ Semi-Permanent Makeupamounts of liquid and waste into the rectum.

important organ of elimination of waste material. Sometimes, if the colon, liver or kidneys are

✓ Skin Fillers

functioning poorly, the skin will be required to make up the difference. Surface eruptions on

✓ Skin Peels

the skin of various sorts may occur due to toxins being released. Cleansing and healing the colon diminishes the burden placed upon the skin as well as the other organs of elimination: lungs, liver and kidneys. As elimination is accomplished through its proper channels, the skin will very often clear up.

This may feel like cramping or gas, and may create a feeling of urgency to empty the rectum. Such episodes, if they do occur, are brief and easily tolerated.

For more information on any of the services Beau Aesthetica can offer to help celebrate the ‘new you’ for 2015 visit their website at www.beauaesthetica. com or call 0116 270 9141 and arrange a consultation.

Following your rejuvenation don’t forget to let people see the re-energised, invigorated you by taking advantage of some of the other treatments on offer; after all people can’t see how you feel but a facial and a manicure will help show them.

For further information, please call 0116

Opening Hours: 10-6pm Tues, Weds, Fri 10-9pm Thursdays – Dr Singh is at Beau Aesthetica on this day. 10-4pm Saturdays

270 9141 or visit www.beauaesthetica.com

17 Allandale Road, Stoneygate, Leicester LE2 2DA NICHE 45

New Hall

Hotel & SPA sutton coldfield, birmingham A spectacular blend of modern contemporary and medieval dĂŠcor, New Hall Hotel & Spa is a truly unique hotel in the heart of the country. Set within 26 acres of elegant grounds, this 4 AA star hotel offers unique hospitality together with warm friendly service. A hidden gem in Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham, New Hall Hotel is an ideal retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The beautiful 12th Century New Hall Hotel and Spa is quite rightly deemed to be one of the finest in the country, offering the very best in hospitality.

Working in harmony with the medieval character, the hotel provides all the modern amenities you would expect, with just the right amount of commitment to its history.

Surrounded by 26 acres of grounds and thought to be one of the oldest inhabited moated manor houses in England, New Hall offers 60 elegant bedrooms within a 4 AA star retreat.

This stunning hotel is the perfect place to hold your wedding, a romantic getaway or simply to escape for a relaxing spa day. The Bridge Restaurant, with its two AA

Rosette rating, and Head Chef Matthew Warburton, with his meticulous attention to detail, provides diners the opportunity to experience modern British cuisine at its best. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for a romantic escape or simply to enjoy pure indulgence for any occasion, visit New Hall Hotel & Spa.

Walmley Road Sutton Coldfield Birmingham B76 1QX t: 0845 0727 577 e: newhall@handpicked.co.uk

Local Charity Spotlight

Dry & Mig h ty it 's th e way forward ! Many of you will have heard the term ‘Dryathalon™’ by now, a phrase which has leapt into the fore over the past couple of years to describe people’s decisions to abstain from alcohol for a set period and get sponsorship for doing so. With this innovative new way of fundraising we were delighted to see one of Leicester’s ladies taking the plunge this January in aid of Cancer Research UK. Tracey Miller, wife and business partner of The Miller Partnership’s Pete Miller, is getting her own determination taxed in an effort to help raise funds for crucial, life-saving research vital in bringing forward the day when all cancers can be cured. For the next month Tracey has pledged to stay away from all things alcoholic and will be found sipping her Shirley Temples as a bona fide Dryathlete™. Cancer Research UK is the world's leading charity dedicated to beating cancer through research; fighting cancer on all fronts, finding new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat it to save more lives. Entirely funded by the public, Tracey’s Dryathalon™ aims to raise

R PA RT N

dryathlete2015, or text TAMI65 £5 (or any donation amount) to 70070.

HIP

THE

beat her target visit her on Just Giving at www.justgiving.com/TraceyAnneMiller-

a massive £1000.00 to put towards this amazing work so if you’d like to help meet and

AT I

For any other budding ‘Dryathletes™’ we have a few of our favourite alcohol free cocktail ideas to help keep you motivated and enjoy an alcohol free tipple or two;

X TA

Why not get in the spirit and donate the cost of a pint or two?

SPECI

Mustique Fizz:

Shirley Temple:

Mojito:

Ingredients: 100ml Schweppes Citrus

Ingredients: 40ml Schweppes Canada

Ingredients: 40ml

Fruit Syrup, 1 Orchid Flower

1.5tsp Sugar, 1 wedge of Lemon

Water, 2 wedges of

How to make: (1) Fill a cocktail shaker

How to make: (1) Extract the juice from

Apple Juice, 20ml Lime

and Citrus Blend to the shaker; (3) Stir

whole pomegranate and place in a sieve.

Cordial, 1 sprig of Mint

extract the juice; (2) Measure

How to make: (1) Add mint, apple juice,

measure 40ml of the freshly

glass; (2) Muddle/mush the mint leaves

a tall glass; (3) Add sugar; (4)

crushed ice and stir well; (4) Top up with

up with Ginger Ale; (7) Garnish

mint and serve.

Blend, Half a Passion Fruit, 15ml Passion

with ice; (2) Add the Passion Fruit, Syrup well; (4) Strain into a

champagne flute; (5)

Garnish with the Orchid Flower and serve

Dry Ginger Ale, 40ml Pomegranate Juice,

a pomegranate - Remove seeds from a

Press down with the back of a spoon to

Schweppes Soda

Lime; 6 Mint leaves; 30ml Juice, 15ml Elderflower

into a glass - Using a jigger,

lime juice and elderflower cordial to a

sieved pomegranate juice into

to extract the juices and flavour; (3) Add

Stir well; (5) Add ice; (6) Top

Soda Water; (5) Garnish with a sprig of

with lemon and serve.

NICHE 47

Charity & care

Spotlight

Soft Touch Arts

SOLLA provides financial advice to the elderly With people living longer, the need for individuals to go into care is steadily increasing. Due to increased financial strains on the NHS and local authorities, the cost is not always covered with more and more people are having to think about how they will pay the bills if they end up in care. Under the statutory guidance for the Care Act 2014, which is due to be rolled out in 2015, local authorities must establish and maintain a service for providing people in its area with information and advice relating to care and support for adults and support for carers. They should seek to give information that meets people’s individual circumstances and enable them to have access to an independent source of information or advice on how they can pay for this care. This should be provided by a regulated, qualified financial adviser including those with Long Term Care and Equity Release qualifications, and preferably the The Society of Later Life Advisers (SOLLA) accreditation. SOLLA is a not for profit, consumer facing organisation whose primary objective is linking consumers and their families with Accredited Independent Financial Advice. Established in 2008, Later Life Advisers specialise in the financial needs of older and disabled people. The Later Life Adviser Accreditation (LLAA) scheme has been developed by the standard-setting body, the Financial Skills Partnership (formerly the Financial Services Skills Council in collaboration with the specialist financial services consultancy SVARfair). For individuals facing the knowledge that they need to go into care and for their families who are helping to arrange it, looking at the associated costs and researching all the different aspects of the care system can be very stressful. A SOLLA member can let people know of any state entitlements the individual could claim and will know the rules on local authority charging – including whether the individual should be paying for their care in the first place or not. If it is they do have to pay for their care, the adviser can then go on to lay out the individual’s options and help them come to a decision.

When you or a loved one needs respite or residential care as you grow older it can be a daunting experience to choose the right people in the right place to go to; Signature’s South Lodge community in Leicester was the first purpose built care and nursing development Signature launched, giving a premium alternative to the traditional ‘care home’ environments of the past. Signature’s ethos is to offer award-winning care in a select number of senior living communities across the UK through a combination of exquisite, purpose built, properties and a dedicated, passionate team of highly professional staff to provide premium residential, nursing or dementia care as well as assisted living support. “The Signature group is expanding but we never want to be “big”. We want to be the best at what we do, providing the highest standard in care home accommodation, services and resident wellbeing” South Lodge boasts an impressive 99 residences set within beautifully maintained gardens including studios as well as 1 and 2 bedroom apartments, many with terrace gardens and views, providing the perfect sanctuary for an summers evening or a bird’s eye view of the snow settling in winter. South Lodge is also home to a specialist Dementia Suite, with their own studio apartments offering the best care and facilities for those facing this disorientating illness and peace of mind for their relatives. “My father is getting the best care he could. If he cannot feed himself there is someone to help him, the carers make sure he gets plenty of fluids and there is plenty of food to choose from. It is very, very clean and Dad is safe and secure. There are plenty of activities for all (if they can take part) as well as lovely gardens to sit in or walk around. I am very happy with South Lodge” Christine, Resident’s Daughter Each resident or respite guest has an individual care plan and South Lodge has a range of activities and fabulous restaurant open to all to enjoy, helping provide a truly holistic approach to care and recuperation. “My friend has recently stayed for respite following her operation. The care delivered was fantastic. The apartment was well equipped and the food was excellent. I was able to join her for lunch in their superb restaurant and we were treated like royalty by all of the staff. I will definitely be booking my place here when the time comes.” Rachel, Resident’s Friend Listed in the Top 1000 Companies to Inspire Britain by the London Stock Exchange, Signature is certainly setting the standard for senior care. To find out more about South Lodge or communities across the UK visit www.signature-care-homes.co.uk

NICHE 49

MindforYou Support for families in the Midlands living with dementia It can be heartbreaking watching someone you love coping with Dementia and witnessing their mental capacity slowly decline. Dementia can affect peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s language skills, relationships and memory and often hits friends and family who are witnessing the changes as hard as the person dealing with the illness. Two thirds of people living with dementia (600,000) live at home in the UK and are cared for by family members, normally their spouse. These family members often do not recognize their role as a full time carer or comprehend the greater health burdens linked to this role. Until dementia itself is tackled, our most effective solution is to ensure that families affected get the support they need from people who understand through, personal and professional experience the impact of the condition. www.mindforyou.co.uk Carol Sargent has been supporting her mother and mother-in-law, who both have dementia, for eight years and Jo Harris has worked with older adults as a community psychiatric nurse for 20 years so they both recognise the affects of dementia on the individual and those close to them. Existing services focus on the person living with dementia, with little support being provided that they can access together with their carers.

Mind for You

Carol and Jo set themselves apart by recognising the need for both carers and people living with dementia to have quality time together where the stress and pressures of day-to-day life are reduced. To provide this, Carol and Jo founded MindforYou which offers supported holidays and days out for both people living with dementia. MindforYou take time to familiarise themselves with your needs to enable you to relax and enjoy yourselves. They cater for small groups of like-minded people with upcoming events including visits to Snibston, Sudbury Hall, holidays in the Peak District and a monthly lunch club. For more information please visit www.mindforyou.co.uk or call 07788 292938

Founder Carol Sargent (PhD) & Founder Jo Harris (CPN)

Practitioner in Theta Healing, Intuitive Anatomy and Disease and Disorder/ Counsellor

The best for community care in Leicestershire We have just begun our journey as a provider of elderly and dementia care in the community. At Salus we are passionate about dementia care, and that the care we provide is of high quality and standards. Therefore we provide a service that is user led and focused. That is why we are sure you will not be disappointed with our service. Providing the right care and support is essential to each person. Call: 01455 293437

www.salusdementiacare.co.uk

Suite B7, Swan House Business Centre, The Park, Bosworth Hall Estate, Market Bosworth, Nuneaton, CV13 0LJ

Louise Richardson 0116 2841865 / 07779584334 www.louise-richardson.co.uk Whatever your problem, whether health related, emotional, career, dependency, bereavement, stress or post traumatic stress, I can help you. Theta is an amazingly powerful therapy that can really transform your life by dealing with the beliefs we hold onto that stop us from achieving, trying different things or dealing with the issues that are causing us pain or stress. I also offer counselling for those that prefer more conventional routes in life. Theta sessions can also be conducted on skype and so distance is no problem. I do hope you will take the first step by picking up the phone or contacting me through the website.

NICHE 51

Advertising Feature

PETER WILCOX FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT Investment Planning Preparing for the future; securing peace of mind for the present

Retirement Planning

Inheritance Tax Planning Planning for your future or your family’s

Therefore, serious consideration should be

future can be a daunting and complex

given to protecting your hard earned wealth.”

assets preserved for our loved ones

On average the costs of care are circa £28,500

to inherit. Yet the financial implications

a year for residential care, rising to over £37,500

Peter Wilcox

task; most Life of us would like to see our Later Planning

of Long Term Care funding in line with the Care Act reforms coming into

01509 881982 effect in 2015/2016 could mean this

dream is one that won’t reach fruition.

a year if nursing care is necessary; without proper planning of investments these costs can ultimately lead to the reduction or loss of your estate, a substantial risk that none of us would want to take. With costs unlikely to decrease,

peter.wilcox@sjpp.co.uk The Care Act 2014 is designed to provide

Principal of Peter Wilcox Financial Management Senior Partner Practice of St. James’s Place Wealth Management

whether it is nursing care, residential care or specialist care. As part of this Act the

Government is implementing processes within Local Authorities across the UK whereby Advisers will be required to suggest individuals seek advice on their care plans. If you have assets greater than £23,250, you will be required to contribute to care fees.

SJ 2003 Peter Wilcox Fixture Card_63x100mm_KT_Feb14.indd 1 “With the average cost of nursing care rising, nursing homes in the UK now charge on average £728 per week (Laing & Buisson Care of Elderly People UK Market Survey 2013/14).

they are reliant of state provisions.

www.peterwilcox-sjp.co.uk greater choice for individuals in need of care;

PETER WILCOX

many people could be left in a position where

The impact of this act on our Local Authorities is still undetermined and won’t be clear until the new reforms come into effect; it is estimated that a substantial amount of Local Authority money could be protected if people were aware of their options to help them navigate the complexities of the care system, probate and financial planning. With Local Authorities unable to provide advice themselves this creates a clear

14/02/2014 15:35:36

problem for people come April. Nottingham City Council currently estimates their enquiries in relation to locating advice for Later Life Planning in the region of 7,000 per year with a projected 56% increase following the April 2015 reforms.

Advertising Feature

“With the average cost of nursing care rising, nursing homes in the UK now charge on average £728 per week. Therefore, serious consideration should be given to protecting your hard earned wealth.” With the introduction of SOLLA (The Society

a position whereby they and their partners can

of Later Life Advisers) 8 years ago, care and

help assess your financial needs and offer you

expertise are available but you still need to know

guidance on how to protect your assets, assess

where to find them. At present there are only

your care needs, release capital in your home,

around 300 fully accredited Advisers nationally.

ensure you receive benefits you are entitled to

Peter Wilcox Financial Management has 2

and create a detailed care plan for your later

accredited Advisers, dedicated to providing

life. Peter Wilcox and his team strongly believe

sound, impartial guidance on all aspects of your

in the value of these relationships and view their

potential Long Term Care Pathway.

client relationships as the centre of what they do. (With over 90% of their business currently

The Advisers at Peter Wilcox Financial

working with Power of Attorney and families,

Management have undergone extensive,

their compassion and conscientiousness offer

independent assessments to demonstrate their

peace of mind and expertise at the time they are

expertise in providing guidance for individuals

truly needed).

and their relatives facing the choices associated with planning their care. With re-licensing

Peter Wilcox Financial Management offer a

required annually and re-assessment every 5

no obligation face to face consultation to all

years SOLLA accreditation guarantees clients

their clients to discuss their current financial

the security that their Adviser is up to date and

arrangements and ‘future-proofing’ their assets

fully qualified to offer the best options at the

for later life; the guidance they provide is

right time for them.

under no obligation and is tailored to individual circumstances so there is no ‘standard

Peter Wilcox Financial Management are unique

package’; and as your circumstances change

in their attitude to Later Life Planning, committed

they can provide help and on-going guidance

to taking a holistic approach of their client’s

to help you achieve your financial goals and

needs and providing guidance on all aspects

provide for your future.

of their probable requirements to provide a full package of services, delivering financial

The specialists at Peter Wilcox Financial

security for clients and their families.

Management are dedicated to raising awareness of the services available to all

Through the development of partnerships

individuals, requiring only an investment in time,

with local solicitors, medical advisers, estate

from which you could gain security and peace

agents and benefits advisers, to name but a

of mind for your future. Recently holding events

few; Peter Wilcox Financial Management are in

locally which are open to anyone and have been

extremely well received, Peter Wilcox and the team are continuing their pro-active approach with another 2 events already planned for 2015. The events scheduled for February and April are the perfect opportunity for anyone to attend and find out a bit more about how regulatory changes may impact them and what services they can procure to safeguard their estates; events typically consist of presentations followed by question and answer sessions allowing you to consider your options privately before initiating any formal enquiries and providing you the opportunity to meet the professionals who can offer you their expertise. With over 35 years’ experience in financial services and dedicated to Long Term Care, Peter Wilcox and his team can offer specialist, comprehensive information to any individual embarking on their Later Life Planning or families faced with elderly relatives and the financial stresses associated with care provisions, as well as the dilemmas faced when determining the right care path on their behalf. To start on your pathway to future financial freedom and a long and comfortable life contact Peter Wilcox Financial Management at www. peterwilcox-sjp.co.uk/longtermcare or join them at Ruddington Golf Club for their February Long Term Care Event.

www.peterwilcox-sjp.co.uk/longtermcare 01509 881982 Julia.gamble@sjpp.co.uk

Peter Wilcox Financial Management represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management PLC (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the groups Wealth Management products and services and products, more details of which are set out on the group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products

NICHE 53

Fundraisers celebrate hitting million pound mark for blood cancer charity The Lutterworth district branch of

Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research have raised an amazing £1 million following 45 years of fundraising.

The majority of the funds have been raised in the last 15 years following a surge of fundraising events and due to the popularity of the branch’s two charity shops in Lutterworth. The shops are the only two in the world which are operated on behalf of Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research; the first charity in the UK to be solely dedicated to research into blood cancers, including leukaemia and lymphoma, and myeloma. Around 38,000 people are diagnosed with blood cancers in the UK alone each year but the charity receives no government grants so relies solely on fundraising. Chris Ingham M B E, Branch Chairperson, said: “We’ve been working steadily towards the million pound mark for 45 years through a variety of means but it’s in the last 15 years since we opened the first charity shop that fundraising has really gained pace and we’re really happy to have hit the target! We won’t be slowing down now and we hope to raise another million pounds in less time.” Following a diagnosis of blood cancer in a

local child, a local family started the fundraising group 45 years ago. Thankfully there was a happy ending for the girl and a happy start to a new fundraising branch which has grown in strength over the years. Jumble sales and bake sales have been taken over by more extreme fundraising activities. Chris said: “We’ve had people run marathons for us and 10 people have done a tandem skydive. It’s great that people will push themselves to those extremes to raise money for us. We go along to support events like the skydives and help people to fundraise so they are not in it alone. We supply personalised sponsor forms

“We often get people who start fundraising for us after someone they know has been affected by cancer and they want to help raise money towards research. There are many types of Leukaemia, Lymphoma and myloma so it affects more people than people think.” A large part of the branch’s ability to raise £1 million is down to the success of the charity shops. Chris said: “We have one shop which sells furniture and books and another on the car park behind which sells general products. The two shops are very busy and people travel from

“We were also the charity of the year for the a young farmers’ club, local magazine and a golf club and we really appreciate the local support.” With an increasing number of charities seeking public support and the on-going challenging financial climate, some charities are struggling to raise funds, and Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research are grateful for their long-term supporters. “There are a lot of charities out there and often people don’t connect to a cause unless they have been affected personally,” said Chris.

www.leukaemialymphomaresearch.org.uk

miles around to come to them.

fantastic cause!

research.”

“A lot of charity shops have closed down over the years as they traditionally lose money but we work hard to make a profit which is fantastic as we want to raise as much money as we can towards research. We want to keep fundraising until we find the cure.

Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research have over 50 years of unparalleled expertise in researching blood cancers and using the research to improve the lives of those affected by blood cancers.

Volunteers help out in both of the shops to help keep costs down and to ensure more money goes to fighting blood cancer. These range from 15-year-old’s who are working towards their Duke of Edinburgh Awards, to a 91-yearold woman who still helps out two days a week. The shops are always on the lookout for new volunteers who can help. If you are interested, please contact the shop on 01455 556649. People can also contact the shop if they are interested in doing a fundraising activity or want to make a one off donation, and people can also make donations online at www.leukaemialymphomaresearch.org

“I think the shops have been successful because we have a big range of products, we now have a bigger shop, and it’s really bright and airy. Everything is really well organised so regular customers know exactly where to look for things too. We also have parking either side of the car park we have easy access to drop off your donations and one hour free parking so you can shop to your heart content. The staff are brilliant too; they are always happy so it’s a fun atmosphere for people to come into.”

Chris said: “We were the first charity to start looking into research for blood cancer and we’ve done some amazing work to help give people the best possible chance of survival and to help people to continue living a normal life after treatment. All of the research is shared with universities so we can do everything we can to help find a cure. We’ve also help to find drugs that help with MS, and HIV along the way amongst other diseases .”

“We won’t be slowing down now and we hope to raise another million pounds in less time.”

The shops are great for people looking for a bargain, for gifts or for something different for their homes and people go time and time again and find gems. At Niche we love the range of stock that the shops offer, the welcoming staff and the fact that the money goes to such a

020 7504 2200

Lesley Caffrey, senior shop manageress and Treasurer of the branch who is continuing her mum’s legacy of fundraising for the charity, said: “Back when my mum started fundraising 45 years ago the chances of survival in children were 1 in 10 but now they are 9 in 10, so fantastic progress is being made. But we still need people to keep fundraising so that we can continue with the

info@beatingbloodcancers.org.uk

You can visit the shops at: Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research Charity Shop, 33a Station Road, Lutterworth Leicestershire, LE17 4AP 01455 556649 Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research Furniture & Book Charity shop, 1 Bell Street, Lutterworth, Leicestershire, LE17 4DW 01455 553094 Shops open Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm

beatbloodcancers@gmail.com NICHE 61

Happy 5th Birthday to Baston House! Baston House was the third, and to date final, school opened by Hillcrest Autism Care in 2010. As with its predecessors it was the brainchild of Anna Kennedy, who herself has 2 children with Autism Spectrum Conditions, and who despite extensive research was unable to find the educational environment needed

‘The Baston Way’; a combination of research proven autism-specific strategies, systems and techniques, incorporating individualised learning plans, with a clear focus on improving communication and interaction skills through identifying learner’s strengths in areas of special interest. “Our curriculum delivery is supported by a range of prominent visual strategies, including highly structured work-systems; predictable changes and phase timings and engaging and

to help them fulfil their potentials.

appealing learning environments.

Jasper’s story

Nearly 5 years ago Anna added Baston House

Baston House uses the International Primary

Mary, Jasper’s Mum: “My son Jasper was

to the portfolio of schools she inspired; each designed to provide a strong educational environment specifically to support children on the autism spectrum with their special educational needs. Baston House boasts some of the best specialist educators on its teaching staff, dedicated to providing a stimulating, individualised development programmes to each student in a safe and engaging environment. The Curriculum and ‘The Baston Way’ Catering for students from 5 to 16 years old Baston House are experts at encouraging learners and supporting their families throughout their Primary and Secondary education to realise their goals and prepare them for adult life. This approach has evolved over the past 5 years and is fondly known as

Curriculum (IPC) as it is a comprehensive, thematic, creative curriculum with a clear process of learning and with specific learning goals for every subject, for international mindedness and for personal learning. Baston House uses the IPC as it has been designed to ensure rigorous learning but also to help

diagnosed with autism at the age of four. Unfortunately, he was unable to manage mainstream school and by the time he was nine he was extremely distressed and his attendance very poor. The school did not understand Jasper’s needs while the work and the environment were becoming impossible for him to manage. He was

teachers make all learning exciting, active and meaningful for children.” Classes are

“His confidence and selfesteem have soared and he is learning much more than he ever has before”

limited in number, approximately 6 students per class, to ensure that their specialist teachers are able to provide the attention and support each learner needs in accessing their potential and to tailor the curriculum to meet every students needs.

continually physically refusing to go to school and trying to hurt himself to avoid having to go. At long last, having struggled so hard for so long in the wrong

setting for a child like him, he is able to engage effectively with his education, in a setting he can understand, and where he is understood.

His confidence and self-esteem have soared and he is learning much more than he ever has before; because his needs are being addressed so well he is responding very positively and his teachers have high expectations of his academic achievement, as well as his overall well-being.” One thing which Mary especially appreciates about Baston House is the way that the children are treated as individuals with their own particular needs addressed according to their capabilities and interests. “Just because all the pupils are on the autistic spectrum, it does not follow that they should all be treated the same. In Jasper’s case, amongst other things he struggled with concentrating for long periods and has certain sensory issues, so he is allowed to take short breaks from his work, his

encouraging them to be engaged in their

assignments are broken into smaller ‘bite-sized’

education.

sections, and even the classroom lighting was changed as the fluorescent strip lights were upsetting to him. This proves to me that Baston fully understands not just my son’s condition, but my son himself, and is prepared to respond

Raeschaun’s story After starting his education in a mainstream school Rachelle, Raeschaun’s Mum realised

in the way which will best serve his needs.”

on joining Secondary school that the school

Jasper’s story is not the only testimony to the

with Raeshaun and he obviously wasn’t coping

great achievements the pupils and staff at Baston House have achieved over the past 5 years and proof that ‘The Baston Way’ works for individuals. The experience and passion demonstrated by everyone involved in helping these young autistic students to not only enjoy their education but also realise their potential in many aspects both on and off the curriculum. The success of the alumni, including Anna’s own sons, are evidence as to how removing barriers and providing an eclectic mix of educational strategies and techniques to support learning can open up so many opportunities which mainstream education

didn’t have the specialist knowledge to deal well. “He started taking time off school, through illness or just because he didn’t want to go and it was only when I spoke to the parents of another child that I discovered he was being bullied. That was enough for me.” Rachelle recalled. Rachelle approached Baston House which agreed to offer Raeshaun a place. “We went to visit and loved the warm welcome and the fact that they understood exactly what we needed.” Having completed a three-day trial period at Baston, Raeshaun pleaded to be allowed to

struggles to provide.

go there. “He liked it straightaway and felt that

But it’s not all about the teachers; the students

brilliant and managed the transfer very quickly

here are motivated by meaningful and high value reward systems, helping them take responsibility for their own learning and

he fitted in,” says Rachelle. “The school was so there was minimal disruption, and for the first time in many months I felt able to relax.”

After just a few weeks, family and friends noted a marked difference in Raeschaun. “There has been a dramatic change,” explains Rachelle. “He used to go to school because he had to, now he actively enjoys it. He understands his lessons whereas before he often shut himself off and he is taking a real interest in what he is learning. At home he is much happier, sleeps better and is more affectionate, so the move to Baston has had a very positive effect on us all.” After all we are all told that our school years are the best of our lives, why should this not apply to autistic children? We have been amazed and delighted to hear the numerous successes Hillcrest Autism Care and its schools have helped to shape and we wish Baston House many more happy birthdays to come! www.bastonhouseschool.org.uk info@bastonhouseschool.org.uk 0208 462 1010

NICHE 57

Autism Awareness April 2015 Here at Niche Magazine autism is a condition

start getting the support that will help them to

autistic disability.” Psychology Today

close to our hearts and so we are always looking achieve their potential. The Modified Checklist for ways to promote awareness and support, as

of Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) provides a good Despite there being no ‘cure’ for autism,

well as championing some of the amazing work

starting point for parents concerned their child

intervention and therapies for both children

those working with autism achieve.

may be autistic; “A typical diagnostic evaluation

and adults can achieve great results and truly

involves a multi-disciplinary team of doctors

enhance lives. Many sufferers have seen

April 2015 is the next Autism Awareness Month

including a paediatrician, psychologist, speech

improvements in their condition with speech

and we are encouraging everyone to find out a

and language pathologist and occupational

and language therapies or the likes of cognitive

little bit more about this illness and show their

therapist.” Autism Speaks

behavioural therapies (CBT) and it is imperative

support for those affected by it. This year will

that sufferers are correctly diagnosed and

see the eighth annual World Autism Awareness

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is often

offered these types of support to enable them to

Day on 2nd April 2015 and we are proud to

characterised by difficulty in communication,

reach fulfilment.

have worked with some amazing advocates

social interactions and a tendency for repetition

and educators specialising in helping people

and can range from moderate challenges for

This April the aim is to turn the world blue in

diagnosed with conditions across the autism

individuals in social settings through to the

recognition of autism and everyone can help

spectrum.

higher end of the spectrum (including Asperger’s raise awareness simply by talking, tweeting, syndrome) whereby verbal communication is

donating or fundraising...it all helps individuals

Diagnosis is often difficult and without better

extremely limited or non-existent and interests

on the spectrum to realise they are not alone or

awareness of families and the medical

are severely restricted and repetitive in nature

‘weird’ and help identify ways of improving their

profession alike some sufferers can be left

causing difficulties in everyday life.

daily lives and education. Get involved and

undiagnosed until much later in life which is why raising awareness is the key building block upon “Autism is a communication disorder, with a which we need to build. There is no one test

broad range of effect. Some people's autism

which can diagnose autism, but the sooner the

makes them eccentric and geeky. Other people

signs are recognised the sooner individuals can

can't speak at all, as a result of more severe

let’s make 2015 bigger, better and bluer than ever and support Light It Up Blue #LIUB

Give us a break! This year from 17th - 21st November 2014 the UK focused it’s attentions on Anti Bullying Week; with bullying becoming increasingly common online and historically rife within schools, for those with any sort of condition which makes them stand out from the crowd, bullying can be all the more damaging. A recent survey, which included over 900 parents of children with autism throughout the UK, has revealed that over 60% of children affected by autism have suffered at the hands of bullies in mainstream schools. What’s more alarming is that schools are not addressing the problem, with 73% of families stating that it had been either ignored or was poorly handled; these astonishing results also reveal that a huge 93% of parents believe that their child’s development and education have been directly affected by being bullied. (The full report can be found here: www.annakennedyonline.com/category/research/ ). Anna Kennedy OBE, Founder of renowned autistic charity Anna Kennedy Online will once again be behind this national campaign with her popular and poignant Give Us a Break! This year, Anna Kennedy Online and Anti Bullying Week were supported by West Ham United, and Anna was seen focusing on school safety, and the issue of children with autism who are suffering at the hands of bullies as a result of their condition. The premier league football team pledged their support for the charity after Anna worked with the club to create a campaign in the Newham area, where the club is based; a representative for West Ham United discussed the intended results of the collaboration; “We hope that by highlighting the work that Anna Kennedy Online is doing, more will be done to raise awareness of this concerning problem, and to help families who are affected.” The Government is cutting back on everything at the moment, and the problem is becoming a real time bomb. This situation needs to be addressed, and when it gets to the point where children’s education and lifestyle is being compromised, it is becoming a real problem. We are creating a generation of adults who are unable to integrate into society or contribute effectively. Anna and her supporters are calling for your pledge your continued support this essential campaign and help tackle bullying in schools against vulnerable children. Please visit www.annakennedyonline.com for further information.

NICHE 59

Hot property

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make the move

Servicing all your property needs.

Naylors Estate Agents have built up a reputation in Market Harborough for being straightforward to deal with, honest with our appraisals and working hard on behalf of our clients. With so much competition locally, we know how important it is to do an excellent job for our clients. We specialise in selling property in Market Harborough and its surrounding areas. As a result, our agents have extensive knowledge and have years of experience selling property in the district. As a client of ours your home will be presented through various different avenues. Our effective combination of online and traditional methods ensure your home gets plenty of attention - the more that people see your home, the more likely you are to get the best price for it. If you have an interest in any of our services, or perhaps have a more general enquiry, please do not hesitate to contact us at the office on 01858 450020.

Tel: 01858 450020 | www.naylorsestateagents.com | sales@naylorsestateagents.com 12 The Square, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, LE16 7PA

NICHE 61

Beautiful new homes in

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or visit taylorwimpey.co.uk

Sales centre open Thursday to Monday, 10.30am to 5.30pm

Sales centre open 7 days a week, 10.30am to 5.30pm

It’s the people who build our homes that make them so special… We may build numerous homes every year, but each and every one is built with love and care. Our staff are dedicated to making our developments in the East Midlands a great place to live, not to mention that we have award winning customer service to help you every step of the way. Contact one of our developments this weekend, and start your journey to a new home. Taylor Wimpey Homes...Built with Love.

*Normal Taylor Wimpey terms and conditions apply. Images used for illustrative purposes only. Images include optional upgrades at additional cost. Prices correct at time of going to press. *Outstanding school information can be found at www.leicester.gov.uk/your-council-services/education-lifelong-learning/about-schools/performance-tables/. **Part Exchange: This offer is subject to status and only available on selected developments and properties. It is not offered with any other promotion unless by special arrangement by us. †For full stamp duty offer details please speak to a sales executive.

Local expertise, national presence and international audience

Rearsby House, Rearsby

Offers Over £1,250,000

A remarkable and truly individual property with striking elevations, extensive accommodation and magnificent leisure facilities. The versatile accommodation on four levels includes four reception rooms, magnificent living kitchen, six first floor bedrooms and a two bedroom self-contained second floor apartment. The basement level includes a billiard room and library, whilst the leisure complex is simply stunning with a large indoor heated pool, and cinema room. EPC RATING E

Stanford Farmhouse, Stanford on Soar

Guide Price £875,000

Stanford Farmhouse is a substantial period home located in a pretty hamlet opposite the village church. On the ground floor are four reception rooms including a large family room with en suite and garden kitchen that offers potential for self contained annexe and a bespoke dining kitchen with open fire. On the first and second floors are five double bedrooms and five luxury bathrooms. Gated driveway, newly built double garage and landscaped gardens. EPC: Exempt

Station Road, Cropston

Guide Price £635,000

An attractive five bedroom detached family home set back from the road with a plot of just over a third of an acre. Built in 1912 with original features and high ceilings and views towards Bradgate Park this three storey family home offers accommodation to include a tiled entrance hall, three reception rooms, breakfast kitchen with Aga fitted by deVOL, en suite shower room and family bathroom. EPC RATING: D

Call 01509 891 398

Fine & Country Loughborough & Charnwood Forest 19a Main Street, Woodhouse Eaves, Leicestershire LE12 8RY

Low Woods Manor, Low Woods

Guide Price £975,000

A substantial five bedroom period property situated near to the village of Belton on a large plot extending to approximately one acre. The property offers an impressive range of outbuildings plus a stunning two bedroom barn conversion that provides excellent self contained annexe accommodation which is available by separate negotiation. An adjoining two storey barn that has been part converted offers potential for additional family accommodation or a home office. EPC RATING E

Moss Deeping, Frisby on the Wreake

Guide Price £725,000

A substantial Grade II listed period home that combines an exciting mix of architectural styles spanning almost 300 years situated within the Conservation Area of this desirable village. With three floors of beautifully presented accommodation including four stunning reception rooms, cellar, large farmhouse kitchen with range and bread oven, six bedrooms and three bathrooms. Outside there is a gated driveway and landscaped walled garden. EPC: Exempt

The Old Farm House, Rothley

Offers Over £550,000

Grade II listed family home brimming with character and benefitting from established south facing gardens. Located in an exclusive gated development in the centre of this well regarded village with approximately 2400 sq ft of accommodation including three reception rooms, breakfast kitchen, utility, four double bedrooms and two bathrooms. EPC: Exempt

www.fineandcountry.com

Property Put simply buying and selling homes is a complex and stressful business, which is why finding the right estate agent is a vital first step. Not only do you need your agent to know their onions, they need to get to know you; feeling comfortable with your estate agent is important, after all they are with you through a major life event!

Your Roof Repair & New Roof Specialists

Estate Agents offer a variety of services including sales, lettings and property management so be sure you approach an agent which deals with what you need as some are solely letting agents. In the main choosing a local estate agent is advisable as they know the local area and the local market and should know how to advertise correctly for the market in your area.

Buying Purchasing a home is probably the largest investment you’ll ever make so you want a professional to ensure you are getting what you pay for and for the right price. Whatever your budget there is an estate agent out there who will market properties within reach. From new builds from Taylor Wimpey’s to country manors from Naylors or Fine & Country and everything in between; don’t be put off if you cannot see your dream home on first look. Talk to the agents; they do this every day and can advise what sort of property your budget will secure you, what the local market has been doing and is expected to do and make recommendations to suit you. One of the benefits of involving an agent at the start of your search is that you will build a relationship with them, they will know what you’re looking for and can notify you with hot new properties as soon as they see them and when you do find your new home they’ll do a lot of the leg work and liaison with other parties so you’ll want to be in the hands of people you’ve grown to trust.

Selling According to Which? research in 2011, the national average for agency fees is 1.8%, on a house price that’s a large amount of money so make sure you feel you are getting value and service on your investment. When you’re looking for an agent it is important to do a little research... Look at the properties they currently have on the books, there is no point approaching an agent who specialises in country houses to represent your city centre apartment. Speak to people; there’s nothing better than an honest first hand opinion from contacts who have used their services before. Become a mystery shopper; visit a couple of agents as a potential buyer and see how you are dealt with, are they professional? Do they appear knowledgeable? This is the service your buyer will receive; you need it to be right! Check their accreditations; all agents are regulated by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) but you may also find they are members of trade associations such as the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) or the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), these are not necessarily essential but they do offer you further reassurance. Estate Agents will be there to appraise and value your home, offer advice on the property market, ensure your property is optimally marketed and help with the negotiations once you’ve got a potential buyer so despite the stress of selling your home, the right agent will make life a lot easier!

With a large team of highly experienced expert tradesmen on hand with over 180 years of combined experience we can confidently say we are the Leicestershire’s leading roofing specialists. We offer roof repairs, replacements, installations, from a pitched roof or a flat roof, facias or soffits, gutters or chimneys. Call for a free no obligation chat or quotation and let us help you to find the right solution for your needs. 0116 267 7177

info@monoroofing.co.uk

www.monoroofing.co.uk M e a d o w L a n e | B i r s t a l l | L E 4 4 EU

LSPS Skip Hire Your local skip hire Cheap skips

All sizes Commercial and domestic skips - fast and reliable services in Leicester and the surrounding towns and villages of Leicestershire with extremely competitive rates. Mini, Midi and Maxi skips plus Roll On Roll Off containers.

0800 083 7807 0116 278 8114 www.leicesterskips.com

Making sure your home According to the experts moving home is one of the most stressful things you will ever do; it can be a celebratory occasion as well but let’s face it, packing up your worldly belongings and family is not an easy task, which is why many families are choosing to convert their current home into their dream home rather than seeking a new solution. When it comes to your property you want to make it a home which pleases your heart, your head and your pocket. With some help from the professionals and a little imagination, you can transform your house into your haven and add value to the property in case you ever change your mind. Giving your home a new lease of life can be achieved through redecoration, renovation or extension; dependent on budget and what you need from your home, there will be a perfect solution for your property. But be sure to enlist the services of someone trustworthy and qualified, if you are going to do anything to your home you want to make sure it’s safe as well as stylish. A few simple accessories and a fresh coat of paint can be enough to make you fall back in love with your home or it may be that your needs have changed and the property doesn’t meet them…yet. If you are considering moving to a larger home it may be worth investigating the possibilities your current house is hiding; perhaps a loft conversion could bring you an extra bedroom, or a conservatory (with some beautiful blinds from our friends at Countesthorpe Blinds) can add much needed living space, or maybe you just need to look at some of the innovative storage solutions that are available to free your home from clutter. Don’t stop inside; aside from building into your garden have you considered a garden building, like the ones from Bentley’s Garden Buildings, ranging from summerhouses to garden offices you can add an additional room without the chaos of building work going on whilst you’re still living in the rest of the house. From a lick of paint to adding a whole new dimension to your home there are affordable and attractive solutions everywhere, get inspired to make your dream home a reality and save yourselves the stress of upheaval.

NICHE 65

SLM Builders: Professional, Friendly and Reliable

Experienced and family-run building contractors with over 25 years experience. Stress free service new builds, extensions & refurbishments including commercial & industrial construction works.

37 Melrose Street, Leicester LE4 6FD T: 0116 276 5333

F: 0116 261 1919

E: info@slmbuilders.co.uk 68

SLM Builders: the name in commercial builds… What do you look for when you

are getting building work done at your property? A recommended company with a reputable name in the area? Good, realistic time

scales? A Good price? All of the mentioned? We thought so; it’s

tricky when looking for any building work to be completed in your own

home, for a start you don’t want the

mess, you want to ensure you don’t

get ripped off and over all you want the job to be completed to your highest expectations.

SLM Builders are renowned for their above and beyond commitment to excellent customer service and with all building work undertaken they are your ideal team for the job. Specialising in new builds, extensions, conservatory construction, conversions and any ideas you might have about what you want to achieve for your home the team always welcome a conversation regarding your plans and want to help you achieve your perfect home. You can expect the following commitments every time from SLM no matter how big the job is at hand; their high levels of workmanship, their can-do attitude, their open and honest communication and, perhaps most importantly, they will turn up on time on the day they say they will with a friendly, experienced, respectful workforce. From the initial enquiry and quote through to the job’s completion you will be advised on what’s next every step of the way. You will be sold on their abilities from the start with the team eager to deliver you with the build and finish you dream of. With vast levels of experience the team know every aspect of your build and work very hard to use only the best materials and skills they can. “Of course we offer the very best for our customers, but, above that we offer a level of customer service in which the customer feels at ease with us and the work we are doing within their home or business. We always appreciate the often very busy nature of our customer’s lives and with this in mind approach each job with the aim of causing as little of a disruption to their lives as possible!” Mark Daniels, Director.

www.slmbuilders.co.uk

Tel: 0116 276 5333

NICHE 67

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

Tel: 0121 6476709

f: Facebook.com/ChrysalisInteriorDesign www.chrysalisinteriordesign.com

t: @ChrysalisID

Happy New Year! After the season of decadence and excess it is easy to feel sluggish and slow come January - BUT there are plenty of things to get excited about during these deepest darkest days of winter. In many places the property market is on the up and if you are considering selling now is the time you should begin getting ready. Start now and your home will be market-ready by Spring when buyers tend to start searching in earnest.

Enlisting the help of a professional home stager is a great way to help ensure your home will sell quickly and for the best price possible. However, to get you started here are my top tips for making your home irresistible to potential buyers. 1. Depersonalise: remove most of your personal photographs, knick-knacks, anything overtly religious, political or potentially offensive. 2. Declutter: remove objects from shelves, window sills. You want clear open spaces! 3. Neutralise: redecorate as inexpensively as possible any bold statements, such as leopard print wallpaper (or carpet!), bright pink walls or brightly coloured anything really. Think neutral! For inspiration visit a new build show home - that is the look you are trying to channel. 4. Freshen: Repair any worn or broken surfaces. Repaint kitchen cupboards, flaking paintwork, broken light switches. Have everything in working order. The aim is to remove all obstacles in the potential buyers’ minds. If your home looks, feels, smells brand new, fresh clean, light and bright they will be more able to visualise themselves living in your home. And to boot, all the decluttering will give you a huge head start on your packing!

Samantha x

1. IKEA Bestå Storage System Laxviken White From £20 www.chrysalisinteriordesign.com/hotpicks “Storage is king when decluttering your home and these white gloss cabinets from IKEA are inexpensive but look great, especially with the Laxviken textured door, this gives a very boutique look and feel..” 2. Easy Art Quiet Woods Art Print by David Lorenz Winston £22.95 www.chrysalisinteriordesign.com/hotpicks “Artwork should be inoffensive and appropriate for the room it is in, when staging a house . This print is beautiful and would work in any room, especially living rooms or bedrooms.” 3. BHS Neutral Dropper Ceiling Shade £40 www.chrysalisinteriordesign.com/hotpicks “BHS have a fabulous range of affordable, on trend, quality light-ing. This shade is neutral but glamorous, lending an expensive air to living/dining or bedrooms.” 4. The White Company Blanc Scent Diffuser £35 www.chrysalisinteriordesign.com/hotpicks “When it is up for sale a house should always smell fresh and clean, never of cooking, pets, cigarettes, gym clothes... etc. This gorgeous home fragrance is reminiscent of fresh laundry and is one of my favourites. 5. Next Home Glisten Rug Mink From £65 www.chrysalisinteriordesign.com/hotpicks “Adding texture is important in a neutral scheme, it prevents a room looking dull. This rug is a lovely neutral shade but has great texture and a little lustre to catch the light. Plus it is cosy underfoot.”

NICHE 69

Designer profile No one can dispute the artistry nature itself provides but sometimes we want to take that splendour and treasure it; that’s why we love our latest designers and the work they are creating, motivated by the rich array of natural inspiration from their surroundings. With designs and fabrics you’ll want to display in pride of place, bring the beauty of outside inside with some pieces depicting the exquisite environment.

Julie Williamson Design Profile of a printing prodigy

Julie Williamson, based on the beautiful isle of Whalsay, creates stunning digital and screen printed products that bring the Shetland Isle’s heritage and culture to life in a range of handmade interior decorations and gifts. Julie graduated in 2009 from the Shetland College with a Degree in Contemporary Textiles but looking to fulfil her honours degree she moved away from her beloved Shetlands to complete a further 2 years of study in Galashiels, receiving her BA Honours Degree in Design for Textiles in 2011; and it was during these university years that the inspiration for Julie Williamson Design surfaced. Homesick for the picturesque Shetland Isles, the landscape, the wildlife and her home, Julie began to design her first collection reminiscent of her island life. Inspired to pursue her talents producing stunning pieces using fabrics printed with her unique designs but not quite patient enough for knitting like her sister, Julie still loved the fair isle patterns she was so familiar with and using these as the background for her designs began creating her first collection; each celebrating the stories and memories the Shetland Isles had bestowed her with. Julie’s creations have won the acclaim of her local community and further afield with craft fairs across the UK looking to exhibit her work and her website attracting interest from far and wide and with her original collection firmly established in people’s hearts Julie is busy working on the new tactile collection for 2015; with a more muted, rustic colour scheme and incorporating locally made tweed and embroidery. Now teaching others the versatility of machine embroidery alongside her own masterpieces Julie’s new collection promises to be as exquisite and inspiring as the first. To view her current collection and be the first to see the tactile collection in 2015 visit www.juliewilliamsondesigns.co.uk

Butterfly Domes Beautiful butterflies set in glass domes

Charlotte Proudlove’s butterfly domes are inspired by the Victorian passion for taxidermy displayed in glass domes. Charlotte has a large range of butterfly domes which are made using antique, vintage or modern glass or she takes commissions for butterfly domes using your choice of butterflies. Her work has gained quite a following and her butterfly domes have been exhibited in London galleries, have sold to celebrities, been featured in Vogue, Marie Claire and have been used for designers at London Fashion Week as well as featured on television. Charlotte has also created a range of beautiful butterfly cabinets, which can be made to order using your choice of butterflies and fabric. The cabinets are hand crafted by British craftsmen and the range includes floor standing and wall mounted cabinets, as well as bespoke shadow box frames. None of the butterflies and moths Charlotte uses are endangered - all are from captive breeding programmes which encourage an active interest in conservation. For further information please contact Charlotte Proudlove on 07951 110147 or email on info@butterflydomes.co.uk or visit the website www.butterflydomes.co.uk

Beautiful Blinds from the experts at Countesthorpe A family run business, providing high quality blinds to households and businesses across Leicestershire since 1987, they produce and fit a full range of blinds for any type or size of window from vertical blinds to conservatory blinds, Plantation Shutters and Patio Awnings. “We chose Countesthorpe Blinds when we wanted 3 new roller blinds for our children’s rooms. We knew they were perhaps not the cheapest on the market but the quality is exceptional and the service was fast and efficient and we have peace of mind that the kid’s rooms are safe as well as stylish!” Jenny, Cross Productions Director said. David Bennifer and his team pride themselves on the quality of their blinds and installations as well as giving customers the best possible advice and aftercare service available; experts in their industry Countesthorpe Blinds can cater for any window type or shape with each blind or shutter made to measure to ensure the highest standard of workmanship and commitment. From concept to design and then the finished fitted product, you are assured the very best attention and service and with a free, no obligation quote available and simple, stylish options to brighten up any room, contact Countesthorpe Blinds and get the best advice from the experts. “Countesthorpe Blinds were my company of choice. They were very professional, advising me as to what was most suitable for my requirement and colour scheme and it was also reassuring to know that my blind was fitted by a trained expert. They provided excellent customer service; I would strongly recommend Countesthorpe Blinds and will certainly use them again.” Anne, customer. www.countesthorpe-blinds.co.uk Tel: 0116 2776749 Email: ccblinds@yahoo.com

Carpet Cleaner Dry in 1hr

- email or call Stuart for

FREE ADVICE Before

Great Value, Great Service

After

Over 28 Years Experience

- Old carpets disposed of - Wide choice & genuine advice

• Carpet Cleaning • Suites - Leather and Fabric • Oriental Carpets/Rugs • Curtain Cleaning Stuart Simpson carries out the cleaning himself with all the care and skill you would expect from someone with a wealth of experience and knowledge.

- Expert fitting guaranteed

- Axminsters - Carpet Tiles - Laminates - Solid

call 01509 412797 0116 298 7082

Woods - Vinyls - Sisals Shop online at www.astleycarpets.co.uk astleycarpets@yahoo.co.uk

01455 285214

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

*when patented Texatherm cleaning system used

email stuart@the professionalcarpetcleaner.co.uk visit www.theprofessionalcarpetcleaner.co.uk NICHE 71

Whether you are looking to indulge in a touch of outdoor decadence, create a playtime haven or grow your own produce you will need the right equipment, starting with the building. Bentley’s Garden Buildings, established in 1932, are synonymous with the garden industry and with their unquestionable quality and expertise on hand in Leicestershire, if you are looking to rejuvenate your garden in time for summer then their extensive range will be sure to meet your needs. Based off the A6 near Loughborough, Bentley’s Garden Buildings offer the largest range of garden buildings, fencing and decking in Leicestershire; continually innovative and expanding their ranges, Bentley’s have consistently exceeded customers’ expectations for over 70 years with no plans to stop yet! Create a perfect summer sanctuary with hot tub covers or a BBQ house, treat your furry or feathered friends to a new kennel or coop or even expand your empire from the tranquillity of a garden office; with tailor made structures also available your options are, quite literally, endless. Whether you are looking for garden sheds, playhouses, summerhouses or decking Bentley’s expert staff can help and advise you on the best options to suit you and your garden space, with no obligation, just a friendly and professional service; open all year round (excluding Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day and Easter Sunday) there is no time like the present to get your garden preparation underway and if you need some inspiration the team at Bentley’s even offer site visits from the experts to help you get started. If you’re exploring ways to add enjoyment to your home and value to your house the garden is a great place to start and can make or break a house sale, as any estate agent will attest. With free advice, all products made to measure, delivery and erection included in the price* and even disposal of your old garden buildings; a beautiful garden offers value for money and can add additional functionality to an unused space. Sit back and relax this Spring knowing a glorious garden is waiting for you as the weather turns bright and view Bentley’s Garden Buildings current range online at www.bentleysgardenfurniture.co.uk, by telephone on 0116 2675117 or in person at their large showroom based just off the A6 between Leicester and Loughborough, just North of the A46/ A6 junction. Open 7 days a week, 09.00-17.30 what are you waiting for, get your garden looking gorgeous this year. *Free delivery within a 20 mile radius of LE7 4PN (£1.20 per mile thereafter)

Leicestershire’s largest independent building plastic stockholder • Free delivery available • All major brands in stock!

Underground Drainage Systems

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Plumbing & Waste Systems

Roofing Roofing Sheeting Sheeting Canopys && Canopys

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Building Materials Building Materials

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PVC-UE Roofline, Window & Cladding Systems

Insulation & Plasterboards

tel: 0116 271 9092 Oadby Building Products

C lassic Radiators UK Ltd

web: www.obpltd.co.uk email: counter2@obpltd.co.uk Opening Times Mon-Fri: 7.30am-5pm Sat: 8am-12pm 47 Kenilworth Drive, Oadby Industrial Estate, Oadby, Leicester LE2 5LT Oadby Building Products Oadby Building Products

www.classicradiators.co.uk Tel: 01706 627062

For more than 10 years Classic Radiators has built a high reputation in the industry as a specialist supplier of quality Cast Iron Radiators, Designer Radiators, Trench Heating, Bench Radiators, Stylish Heated Towel Rails and Radiators and Finned Tubed Radiators. Create a curtain of warmth with our finned tube radiators. We manufacture this product ourselves and we offer a bespoke madeto-measure service. Ideal for apartments and loft conversions and, being floor mounted, the finned tube radiator can be easily adapted to suit any situation. We can supply these finned tube radiators in a wide range of colours to ensure they compliment any room.

www.classicradiators.co.uk 01706 627062

Katy Jade Dobson Katy is a UK based oil painter from Yorkshire. Growing up she focused her skill toward ethereal portraits and detailed sketches, pursuing this throughout her educated life to the University of Lincoln. The positive reaction to Katy’s wildlife work led to a large shift towards oil paints, discovering the rich tones and infinite textural possibilities oils soon became her medium of choice and a huge part of Katy’s development as an artist. Moving to portraiture, Katy worked on a series of iconic women, all eclectic in their abstract colour qualities, heavily embellished and adorned with tactile brush strokes. Katys admiration for elegance and richness of pallet moves her to create original oil paintings with a plethora of colour, and a blend of drama, harmony, presence and dissolve.

Your Child deserves a beautiful nursery full of fantastic handmade furnishings. With over 500 fabrics to choose from there are hundreds of ideas to transform your child's bedroom at www.childrenscurtaincompany.co.uk Made-to-measure curtains, blinds, cushions, throws, bedding, lampshades, all professionally made and delivered to your home within 3-4 weeks. Call 01635 871168

Katy joined Wishbone Publishing in September 2014 and together released her premier “Spectrum Collection”. 13 original paintings, 7 of which were also published as limited edition prints. Originals sold out with the publishers soon after release and prints continue to sell quickly to galleries UK wide. Her new collection is due to be released shortly and is set to sell out in record time. For retail enquiries please see www.wishboneart.co.uk/affiliates for your nearest stockist.

The Light House

IMPORTERS . INSTALLERS LIGHTING RETAILERS . WHOLESALERS

YOUR LOCAL LIGHTING SPECIALIST

LIGHTING DESIGN SERVICE AVAILABLE

107A/B Hinckley Road, Leicester, LE3 OTD • Tel: 0116 233 0303 www.lighthouse-leicester.co.uk • sales@lighthouse-leicester.co.uk Open: Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm • Sunday 11am-4pm

NICHE 73

Keep

Motoring The Mobile Garage People

No matter the make, model or age of your car you will at some point need a good garage even if it’s just for maintenance. But finding a reliable garage service hasn’t always been easy;

and Industry (DTI) estimates that garages overcharging and carrying out sub-standard work costs UK motorists more than £100m a year (BBC News); with this in mind it is imperative you do a little bit of leg work to make sure you get the right garage at the right cost. 3 key considerations: The make – some garages specialise in particular car brands; these will usually have the most experience and best machinery. If you are in a vehicle under warranty you also need to check if

thankfully, if you are local to

you need to use an approved garage as failure to do so may invalidate your warranty.

Leicester we have been blessed with some of the Midlands best mechanics.

UK motorists are spending an estimated £9bn a year on car repairs and The Department of Trade

The type of repair – for minor repairs such as bulb changes or oil top ups you may be able to do these yourself or pretty much any garage should be able to do these as standard however, if you are looking for specialist or major work on your car you need to be 100% confident; choose a more experienced and professional garage for the major car repairs or bodywork.

The cost – an important consideration when estimating the cost of repairs will be whether they use manufacturer’s genuine parts or aftermarket parts and don’t be nervous about asking them how long it will take them to carry out the work and whether they will offer follow up repairs in the event of a persistent issue.

B um p er R e pair , S mar t R e pair & De tai l in g

We are a family run business with over 40 years motor trade experience. We aim to provide you with an efficient reliable and friendly service for the repair of your vehicle. At Paint Wagon Leicester we offer services from a scratch or stone chip repair up to full re sprays. All this is covered by our 3 year paint finish warranty for your peace of mind.

U ni t 1 , S affron W ay I n d E s t, Leices t er , L E 2 6 U P

w w w. pain t wa g on . uk E mai l - pain t wa g onau t o @ g mai l . com P h one 0 7 8 3 2 2 0 2 8 7 6

NICHE 75

Get your motor running wherever you are Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nothing worse than the sinking feeling you get when your car has broken down by the side of the road or you keep desperately trying to start it outside your house

and you realise that no amount of praying will make it run. If you find yourself in that awful predicament, why not call The Mobile Garage People to come to fix your car

wherever you are, rather than paying for a costly tow truck to take you to a garage. The service operates across Leicester, Loughborough, Nottingham and Derby and their

qualified mobile mechanics and mobile auto electricians will come equipped with all the necessary tools to perform expert vehicle breakdown repairs there and then.

If the thought of sitting in a dingy garage for hours with only year-old magazines to keep you occupied fills you with dread, you can also have the MOT, repairing or service of

your car or van done at your home, allowing you to carry on with your day. The Mobile

Garage People can even come to your office so you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to miss any time at work. Their mobile mechanics and mobile auto electricians have many years experience of

working in the motor trade, and they have all the relevant training and qualifications to get your vehicle in full working order again as soon as possible.

They are also members of The Good Garage Scheme which ensures that they abide by a strict code of conduct and work to an industry standard checklist ensuring that their quality of work and customer care is consistently upheld.

Why not save their number to your phone for your next mechanical emergency 0800 859 5306 - or visit www.themobilegaragepeople.co.uk to find out more.

mobile garage

Let us take the stress away from having your car servicing by providing our mobile service direct to your home or work place. Servicing - Clutch & Flywheel Replacement - Brakes - Diagnostics - Head Gasket Repair Engine Replacement - Vehicle Electrics - MOT Repairs - Gearbox replacement - Suspension

www.themobilegaragepeople.co.uk 76

info@themobilegaragepeople.co.uk

0800 859 5283

MC Garage Bodywork & Service LLP

Accident Repair Centre

Cars, Vans & Commercial We do all type of repair: Private, Trade and Insurance. Pop in for free estimate anytime Mon-Fri between 8am-5pm. Tel: 0116 276 6619 Mobile: 07788 272 778

Scuff Sorter is a mobile service providing cosmetic paint work repairs to vehicles of all shapes and sizes in and around

Leicester. Peter is in his eleventh year working on everything

from Fords to Ferraris and is happy to discuss any paintwork issues your vehicle may have.

Fax: 0116 276 8694

www.mcgarage.co.uk 108 Cannock Street, Thurmaston, Leicester, LE4 9HR

07830 36 46 86 info@scuffsorter.co.uk

www. s c u ff s o r t e r. c o . u k

25% of People forget their MOT renewal!

And did you know that not having a valid MOT certificate can lead to a fine of up to £1000 and in most cases invalidates your motor insurance.

Small Accident Damage Paint Scratches Bumper Scuffs Alloy Wheels Stone Chips Dents

Take adv antag of our FREE e reminder service to day.

Take advantage of our FREE reminder service today. Simply text your registration number, name and address to 0779 567 8173 and we’ll be in touch one month before the expiry date of your MOT. Jordan Motors first opened for business in 1962, and have been serving Leicester and surrounding areas ever since. Our garage is an approved Unipart Car Care Centre which means that all parts fitted come with a nationwide 12,000 miles or 12 months guarantee, whichever comes sooner. We are a family run, local and independent business that understand its customer need and will always go that extra mile for them. We will even collect your car and if you need to be dropped at the local shops, we can do that too.

Our MOT is reasonably priced at £39, and for as little as a £79 we can service your vehicle on the same day. All our MOT and Services include FREE collection and Delivery. Don’t delay, to book your MOT or service call Simon today.

Jordan Motors

www.jordanmotors-leicester.co.uk

0116 289 2308

30 - 34 Narborough Road South, Braunstone Town, LEICESTER, LE3 2FN

NICHE 77

citron

Abarth 695 Biposto Edit Performance is a state of mind

The Abarth 695 Biposto is dedicated and designed for those who can only think

about the track, for those for whom the

engine roar is music to their ears and for whom competing is in their blood; The “Black Tie Racer” for those who have

chosen performance without foregoing style on the road, as in their lifestyle.

The essence of the 695 Biposto is obvious at a glance with two seat true sports car style, rear titanium roll-bar, 4-point seat

belts, carbon shell seats, and fabrics and

finish reminiscent of the colour and texture of asphalt.

Interior The Upholstery is set in black electro-

welded Alcantara® and top grain quality

leather, trimmed with pearly pigments, with brand new colours and finishes for the

Abarth cars to complement the same as the steering wheel and with door handle

and oddment net on hand to enhance its aggressive look. Exterior The perfect synthesis between street

It’s the very first time that a ‘street legal’

production car with 190HP has been fitted with a dog ring gearbox and all-aluminium H configuration selector mechanism,

worthy of a true supercar taking centre

performance and racetrack thrill; with a

stage in the cockpit.

engine, the Abarth ‘695 Biposto’ has the

Philip Booth (Research Garage Abarth

the best acceleration (0-62 mph in 5.9”) in

delicacy! The amount of thought and

143 mph.

to put together what the brand resembles

weight of just 997kg and a 190HP 1.4 T-Jet best weight-to-power ratio (5.2 kg/HP) and

Specialist) says; ‘This beast is an Italian

the category, reaching a top speed of

precision plus effort that has been given

The Research Garage Group is family run business has grown from strength to strength over this period and the

partnership with Abarth has been a

fantastic success story since the launch in 2009 with the Abarth 500; looking to continue their success the whole team

to all car lovers…Passion & Performance. This is definitely a true Abarth.’ Any more information can be found at

Research Garage Group Ltd Website –

www.researchgarage.co.uk or you could call 02476 377 170.

are very excited about the new edition to the Abarth franchise and welcome this creation with open arms.

NICHE 79

Fine & Fab

Foods

Dimblebee Catering Co.

Tried & Test ed

When you are looking for a refined, delicious cocktail you cannot go too far wrong with a G&T; but what makes G&T extra special is the main ingredient, Gin. If you are looking for a classic Gin, full of Juniper flavour which retains a smooth and delicate finish on the pallet, then you need look no further.

A cocktail with kudos

Two Birds Spirits are an artisan distiller based in the heart of rural Leicestershire, with a passion for botanics and their handcrafted still, Gerard, Two Birds are receiving acclaim across the industry for their beautiful flavours including infusions of juniper, orris root, coriander, and citrus (as well as the ‘secret’ ingredient) complimented with fresh spring water from the Charnwood hills which give it a delectable smooth taste. Each spirit is distilled in small batches of 100 bottles to ensure every batch is filled with countryside spirit. “I’ve always thought the best way to enjoy Gin is in a classic G&T, when we received our ‘sample’ bottle of Two Birds London Dry Gin it already felt like a real treat with the quirky logo and lovely label and the Gin was even better!” Emily, our Media Account Manager, told us. As a perfect gift or a little treat for the discerning Gin drinker, Two Birds unique character and exquisite blend lend themselves to any cocktail but we recommend a good old Gin & Tonic or Two Birds recipe: 1 shot of Two Birds Gin, 4 shots of pressed apple juice, 1 shot Elderflower juice, crushed ice (lots), all shaken, then garnished with a sprig of apple mint…mmm! “We tried the recipe on Two Birds website for a change and it was gorgeous; refreshing and fruity and very moreish!” Emily said. www.twobirdsspirits.co.uk 01858 414256

sales@twobirdsspirits.co.uk

When our Account Manager, Emily, and her partner were offered the opportunity to sample the fare of two Savoy chefs right on our doorstep, they literally jumped at the chance.

An evening to delight the senses

Located on the border of Nottinghamshire & Leicestershire Hammer & Pincers is celebrating its 10th Anniversary; with a lifetime’s shared passion for cuisine and committed to using only the finest local produce, Hammers & Pincers have won the acclaim of restaurant goers and food critics alike. Emily was invited along to sample their infamous eight course grazing menu which includes beautiful combinations from Pheasant and Barley to Rhubarb and Ginger all accompanied by a specially selected tipple to enhance and compliment the flavours. “It was a fantastic evening; the food was beautiful, our favourites were the Scallop and Crab claw and the Fillet of Beef with Shallots.” Emily enthused Set in the picturesque village of Wymeswold the restaurant itself exudes opulence whilst managing to retain a welcoming and relaxed ambience. “The service Sandra gave us throughout was amazing and the restaurant felt really luxurious but not pretentious so we were really able to relax and enjoy ourselves.” Said Emily Hammer and Pincers provide an exceptional culinary experience blended with the environment and attention to deliver a truly enchanting evening of food and wine to savour with your favourite friends and family. “We absolutely loved it here and would definitely come again and recommend our friends to do the same.” Emily told us www.hammerandpincers.co.uk

01509 880 735

info@hammerandpincers.co.uk

Walnuts are the kings of the nut collection, with their large round shape, but the best way ever to imbibe them is in a new Walnut Liqueur just launched by liquid deli Demijohn.

Going Nuts Over Demijohn’s Walnut Liqueur

As the first British Walnut Liqueur to be made in the UK it overtakes all other nutty winter drinks and is the ultimate after dinner drink for this season. Made from walnuts picked in the early summer by the Demijohn team in East Sussex, and then made in Somerset, this very dark, strong liqueur takes at least 40 days and nights to infuse but the resulting wait is worth it. As a delicious, strong flavored drink, with a hint of infused walnuts and cloves, its subtle sweetness and spiced overtone make it a perfect drink for the cold winter months. Based loosely on the Northern Italian Nochino Liqueur, Demijohn’s Walnut Liqueur is made by combining Apple Eau de Vie as the base spirit with British walnuts and cloves. Demijohn has just introduced it this week into its shops and online at www.demijohn.co.uk, with prices starting at £6.60 for a 100ml bottle, making it an affordable, unusual and delicious gift. Add a personalised message for free and you have Christmas sorted too. Angus Ferguson from Demijohn says: “The process of making this drink has been a wonderful adventure which started with Frances, my wife, having run experiments on our kitchen table last year to discover the secret recipe. We then picked the walnuts on our 10th birthday on 1st July, a beautifully hot summer’s day. The reward for all our effort and patience is just 250 litres of the most delightful drink. There will never be enough of this truly unique drink, which is a perfect addition to any winter feast!”

NICHE 81

Winners of an outstanding Michelin review, 2 Rosettes by the AA guide for the 3rd year running and Best Gastro pub in the East Midlands; Sandra and Danny Jimminsons’ business, Hammer and Pincers, is all about food and it shows. With an all-consuming passion for sourcing, creating and presenting delicious menus, both Sandra and Danny have a wealth of experience as chefs at home and abroad, including two Savoy trained restauranteurs. This talented couple decided to return to rural Leicestershire and settle close to where Danny grew up on the border of Nottinghamshire & Leicestershire. Ten years following the inception of Hammer and Pincers, Sandra and Danny’s passion for bringing beautiful local produce alive with their refined and delicious cuisine has not abated and they have recently carried out a full refurbishment and redesign of their menus to celebrate the achievements of Hammer & Pincers; and with the launch of their new drinks menu full of delicious cocktails such as their Thyme Fizz, Honey & Rosemary Sours or a gorgeous Coffee Martini (a personal favourite!) you can relax with a tipple whilst you consider which dish to try first. “Wonderful meal on Saturday night. Eight course #GrazingMenu and what a lovely surprise when the final course arrived. Thank you guys.” Jonathan (restaurant guest) Opening Times Tue-Sat: 12-2 & 6-9.30 Sunday: 12-4 Reservations: 01509 880 735 info@hammerandpincers.co.uk

Situated on the border of Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire, in the village of Wymeswold, Hammer and Pincers is run as both an award winning restaurant and outside caterers (Bespoke Outside Catering), catering for anywhere between 6 to 400 guests, making them ideal for a special evening meal right through to your wedding, you can be guaranteed an exceptional standard of homemade fare for any occasion (or just because you like good food!).

“Superb food, every course was exactly as it was at our tasting, we would like to thank Danny and his team for the effort they put into making our special day so special.” Oliver and Gemma (wedding catering)

“Thank you for a fabulous evening. The flavours where just unbelievable and displayed like art on the plate. Thank you for a special evening”. Charlotte (restaurant guest) Everything is made in house from Ice creams and sorbets through to their daily baked bread selection, with ingredients sourced from the finest local suppliers quality delicious cooking is just what comes naturally for this dynamic, delectable duo.

The Hammer and Pincers award winning restaurant sources only the finest local ingredients, and we make everything served in-house. Our unique dishes are created from a passion for quality, flavour and innovation. “Wow, I thought you couldn’t ask for more from your food...the fillet of ‘home-killed, 28-day-matured, locally reared’ beef was stunningly good..the lemon grass sorbet was un-be-lievable.” Giles Coran, The Times. Visit our website for more details, other menus and more. We are now featured in The Michelin Good Food Guide 2014.

5 East Road, Wymeswold, Loughborough LE12 6ST t: 01509 880735 w: www.hammerandpincers.co.uk 82

Established in 2008 by Julian Carter and Tim Hart, Hambleton Bakery was intended to be the supplier of the finest fresh bakery products to Hambleton Hall Hotel & Restaurant, Rutland. With a talent for baking that appears to know no bounds the team at Hambleton Bakery have helped customers to rediscover the real taste of good bread; using traditional ingredients (free from additives and preservatives) and baking techniques they have created some of the most

Using the finest ingredients, our ‘signature’ loaves are made without baker’s yeast and baked in a wood fired oven for a perfect crust. We also bake a selection of delicious savouries, cakes & desserts. The traditional techniques and ingredients we use develop the real taste of our products, full of flavour with no preservatives or enhancers.

beautiful artisan bread, cakes and savouries you will ever have the pleasure of sampling. Now with 5 shops in Exton, Oakham, Market Harborough, West Bridgford and Stamford as well as supplying numerous delicatessens, cafés, restaurants and hotels and providing wholesale bakery products; Hambleton’s delicious, freshly baked breads, savouries and cakes are delighting customers across the UK. Made from free range eggs and local butter from Lincolnshire their selection of cakes and tarts will suit anyone with a sweet tooth and are perfect for afternoon tea; and for sensitivities from gluten to butter Hambleton’s expert baker, Julian, is creating allergen free alternatives with all the same taste as I write. There truly is something special about freshly baked goods made from fresh, quality ingredients, and with immeasurable skill, that makes the mouth water just at the thought. Winning Baker of the Year 2013 at the Bakery

Shops: Exton Bakery, Market Harborough, Oakham, Stamford & West Bridgford

www.hambletonbakery.co.uk

Industry Awards, and hoping for another winning entry for 2014, Julian’s passion and commitment to creating both traditional yet innovative handmade produce is admirable (and appreciated!) and with a national vote as ITV’s Britain’s Best Bakery, these are breads you need to try; but I warn you that supermarket bread will never be the same! To explore stockists or order your supplies visit www.hambletonbakery.co.uk and once you’ve tasted the best bread in Britain don’t forget to cast your vote at www.farmshopanddelishow. co.uk/entry/hambleton-bakery Market Harborough Shop, 12 Church Street, Market Harborough LE16 7AA

Opening Times: Monday to Saturday, 8.00am – 5.00pm

NICHE 83

Mark Gamble, the co-founder of Two Birds Spirits, was the creator of the Two Birds’ unique still, known as ’Gerard’. With a passion for rural Leicestershire and the desire to create his own still, he designed and built the 25 litre copper and brass still and Gerard was ‘hatched’ in 2012.

A natural nip; from botanics to bottles

Using their combined experience of the British countryside and the botanicals it yields as their inspiration, Mark and his business partner, Lyn Taylor, set about perfecting their London Dry Gin, including infusions of juniper, orris root, coriander, and citrus (as well as the ‘secret’ ingredient) complimented with fresh spring water from the Charnwood hills which give it a delectable smooth taste. Maintaining the distinctiveness of their products and the natural essence of their ingredients, each spirit is distilled in small batches of 100 bottles to ensure every batch is filled with countryside spirit. Launching their London Dry Gin from a stall at Burghley Horse Trials in 2013, the attention to detail and quality was quickly picked up on; acquiring Two Birds a place as ‘Spirit of the Month’ at Fortnum and Mason’s and from there the business has soared. Eager to continue to create artisan spirits expressive of the great outdoors, Two Birds also produce their own English Vodka and Absinthe, and depending on the time of the year and ingredients available, produce flavoured seasonal spirits like their delicious raspberry vodka. Their attention to detail from the selection of the botanicals used in their spirits, through to the carefully monitored distillation and the hand decorated bottles make Two Birds Spirits beautiful not only to taste but to look at, and their popularity and acclaim in just one short year has seen them awarded the CDA Gold Award 2013 and CWSA Gin of the Year 2014 already, and we’re sure there is more yet to come. www.twobirdsspirits.co.uk 01858 414256

sales@twobirdsspirits.co.uk

Melton Mowbray Pork Pies, Stilton Cheese and so much more…

Melton Mowbray Food Festival 2015

Melton Mowbray Food Festival is one of the largest regional food festivals in the country, set in the heart of the traditional market town known as the UK’s Rural Capital of Food. From 3-4 October 2015, the 12th annual Festival will offer a huge selection of edible delights from some of the country’s finest producers, many from the East Midlands. Over 150 exhibitors will be showcasing their produce at the Festival and this year, visitors can sample not only the local, traditional Melton Mowbray Pork Pies and Stilton Cheese, but also a range of delicious foods such as stunning new alcoholic ice creams, artisan cheeses, gold-infused bubbly, steamed puddings, chocolate kebabs, gourmet British game, locally-brewed ales and many, many more. With places to pause, eat and drink, the Festival is just the perfect day out for everyone from the serious foodie to the happy browser! Better still, why not make a weekend of it and explore the many places of interest and things to see and do in the area. Fantastic value at £6 per person or just £5 for pre-booked tickets and children under 16 go FREE! Pre booked tickets available at Dickinsons and morris, Melton Mowbray or online from www.goleicestershire.co.uk. www.meltonmowbrayfoodfestival.co.uk

Traditional canal-side pub serving great food Watling Street, Burbage, Nr. Hinkley, Leicestershire, LE10 3ED 01455 631158 www.limekilnsinn.co.uk

Queen of Bradgate A unique drinking, dining and shopping experience in the heart of the city! 97 High Street, L eice ster, L E1 4JB

NICHE 85

Homemade fresh food and a great atmosphere for a night out at your local family pub

New Menu

Carvery

Live Acts

Enjoy our new menu now in force Mon-Sat 10-3 and 5-8

From 5pm-8pm MonWeds (2 for ÂŁ6) & 12pm4pm Sun we serve our famous Carvery.

Live bands every Saturday night, always free entry. Open till 1am Fridays and Saturdays

Enjoy your favorite tunes with our lively karaoke nights every Friday & Sunday night!

263-265 Abbey Lane, LEICESTER, LE4 5QH www.broadwayleicester.co.uk 0116 2253794

LUNCH FOR EVEN LESS 2015 2 Course Lunch from £12.95 3rd Course from £2.50 8 Local Top Restaurants Team Up to offer a fine lunch at an especially low price. Offer valid Monday to Saturday, the offer is variable to each restaurant. To make your reservation, please call the restaurant of your choice and quote the ‘Lunch for Even Less’ offer. Subject to availability.

The Berkeley Arms, Wymondham 2 courses for £12.95 (3rd course for £4.00)

Offer Valid - Thursday, 22nd January to Tuesday, 31st March Closed on Mondays, excluding Valentine’s Day 01572 787587 www.theberkeleyarms.co.uk

Hart’s, Nottingham

Hambleton Hall, Nr. Oakham

2 courses for £24.50 (3rd course for £7.00) (including 12.5% discretionary service)

Offer Valid - Mon 12th Jan to Fri 27th Feb Excluding Valentine’s Day & Saturdays 01572 756991 www.hambletonhall.com

Langar Hall, Langar

2 courses for £15.50 (3rd course for £4.00)

2 courses for £16.50 (3rd course for £5.00)

Offer Valid - Monday, 12th January to Friday, 27th February Excluding Valentine’s Day 0115 9881900 www.hartsnottingham.co.uk

Offer Valid - Monday, 12th January to Saturday, 28th March Excluding Valentine’s Day 01949 860559 www.langarhall.co.uk

(including 12.5% discretionary service)

The Marquess of Exeter, Lyddington

The Olive Branch, Clipsham

2 courses for £12.95 (3rd course for £3.00)

2 courses for £15.50 (3rd course for £4.00)

Offer Valid - Monday, 12th January to Saturday, 28th March Excluding Valentine’s Day 01572 822477 www.marquessexeter.co.uk

Offer Valid - Monday, 12th January to Saturday, 21st March Excluding Valentine’s Day 01780 410355 www.theolivebranchpub.com

The Red Lion Inn, Stathern

The Wicked Witch, Ryhall

2 courses for £13.50 (3rd course for £2.50)

2 courses for £14.95 (3rd course for £3.00)

Offer Valid - Monday, 12th January to Saturday, 28th March Closed on Mondays, excluding Valentine’s Day 01949 860868 www.theredlioninn.co.uk

Offer Valid - Tuesday, 13th January to Tuesday, 31st March Closed on Mondays, excluding Valentine’s Day 01780 763649 www.thewickedwitchexperience.co.uk

NICHE 87

The Art of Great Food in the Heart of Leicester The New Year often marks a watershed for people when it comes to their diet, but looking after your diet does not mean forgoing dining out, it just means picking wisely. We say Maiyangoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new Winter menu is too good to miss and there are some delicious healthy alternatives; meaning you can still treat yourself to a dinner date without worrying about your resolutions.

Hotel Maiyango is the well established boutique hotel and restaurant in the heart of historic Leicester. With a firm long standing commitment to the development of its surroundings and local talent Hotel Maiyango is a jewel in Leicester’s crown. Nestled firmly opposite Jubilee Square Hotel Maiyango continue to offer exquisite food, accommodation and a discerning cocktail list for the increasing numbers of tourists and visitors; with Hotel Maiyango their focus is all about flavours and the enjoyment of food and drink. There is no pretence or snobbery here, just seriously refined food in a quirky intimate setting. Hotel Maiyango has anchored the area around the High Street in Leicester’s City Centre for the last 9 years and over the last six months there has been a great buzz around top of the High Street as it swiftly develops itself as the independent end of the City. Brands like Maiyango, Orange Tree and Queen of Bradgate, along with soon to open Lumbers Jewellers and others are helping to turn the High Street into the location of choice to shop, wine and dine in Leicester. The Highcross Shopping Centre naturally does its own bit for the area, with the vast range of more casual dining on offer, “The development of these dining choices helps us attract more people to Leicester and encourages them to spend longer in the city centre – day and night – which is great news for Highcross and the city as a whole.” Jo Tallack, Highcross General Manager And clearly great news for Maiyango, being blessed with a fantastic location an enduring passion for food and all things indulgent combined with the skill of the chefs in creating delicious, progressive cuisine which sets Hotel Maiyango out from the crowd; ensuring you can enjoy dining all year round without any hesitation regardless of health-kicks. We, for one, are excited to see what the dishes at Hotel Maiyango, and the continued growth of new offerings in the city centre, will bring in 2015 and with the

www.maiyango.com

amazing cuisine on offer here we’re off to a great start.

0116 251 88 98

“Leicester is getting better and is competing with places such as

reservations@maiyango.com

out here.” Lee, Leicester Shopper

Birmingham and Nottingham. I would much rather shop and go

NICHE 89

Talk

Business Mattioli Woods

Need help finding funds for your business? After working for 30 years in the public sector, Sue Grogan decided to set up her own business to share her wealth of knowledge in strategic planning, operational management and funding applications with others. Joined-Up Working helps clients from across the private and voluntary sectors grow their business or organisation. They operate primarily within Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, but also work across the East Midlands. Sue or a member of her team will meet with clients initially to determine their needs, before helping to plan the way forwards with them. Sue said: “A lot of people have great ideas but don’t necessarily have the time or strategic vision to see them through. I look at their ideas

from an impartial viewpoint and help them think about them strategically and operationally to make sure that they are achievable. I also help them cost out projects, and we carry out operational planning together to ensure that it will be a success. Some businesses or organisations need help coming up with practical ways of putting their new and innovative ideas into practice and I can help them with that. ” Sue also helps businesses or organisations to apply for European, National or Local funds to help them grow.

“We help businesses or organisations find out what they are eligible to apply for,” said Sue. “There are some grants available but most of the time we are helping them apply for loans, some of which require them to put some of their own money into the pot. People can get easily put off when they see the amount of paperwork

they need to do and the bureaucratic processes they need to go through, but we can take the time and the stress out of it by completing the applications for them. There is money out there and my view is if you don’t ask, you don’t get so if you need help applying for money we can assist you.” She added: “I like it when I see results at the end of the day, from helping a business solve a problem to helping them secure some funding. I also love doing work with the community.” Joined-Up Working also offers a Proof and Polish service for funding bids and applications or reports. They also provide a great event management service; hosting everything from small workshops to conferences. For more information please visit www.joinedupwork.co.uk, call 0116 4300372 or email sue@joinedupwork.co.uk.

Meet our new Director... We are delighted to announce the appointment of Peter Morris who joins our team as a Director. Peter started his working life as a policeman before making a move in to the accountancy profession 25 years ago. Having trained with Ernst & Young, in recent years, he has been a Director with East Midlands practice MGC Hayles. Peter brings experience and knowledge to our firm, having worked with local businesses and advisors for many years. He worked on many large national and international company audits in the past, and this experience will assist our Audit

department. In recent years, he has been advising mainly family run Small to Medium Enterprises (SME’s) on most areas of accountancy and tax. He will therefore fit in well with the core client base of Torr Waterfield. Peter has recently married and has three daughters (not, we hasten to add, born since his marriage!). Away from the office, Peter enjoys playing and watching football and cricket, watching rugby, family holidays and the occasional skiing holiday (knees and other body parts allowing!). We welcome Peter to the team, and wish him a happy and fruitful time with us.

Peter Morris

Contact:

0116 242 3400 peter.morris@torrwaterfield.co.uk www.torrwaterfield.co.uk Park House 37 Clarence Street Leicester LE1 3RW

3968_Niche Advert_190x137mm.indd 1

03/12/2014 17:33

NICHE 91

Should I stay or should I go? New year’s day is “D Day” for many wanting a divorce.

GLYNIS WRIGHT, Head of her own family practice in Leicester, says that it is common for those suffering rocky marriages to make divorce their New Year resolution. “The pressure of Christmas and the New Year can be the straw that broke the camel’s back for a lot of couples particularly if they are struggling financially. Also, Christmas is a peak time for cheating as high spirits and the party mood result in people committing infidelities that later have consequences. Sometimes people sit down at their Christmas meal and have a “Eureka” moment where they suddenly realise they are unable to face another year with their spouse. Or family members come to stay who cause trouble and widen the cracks in the marriage further.” The latest statistics from the ONS show that 42% of marriages fail therefore divorce in the New Year is a reality for many! Glynis says, “If someone is thinking about ending their marriage, seeking legal advice from a specialist lawyer is essential. A lot of people are nervous about seeing a lawyer in case making the appointment is in itself a decision to end the marriage. But it doesn’t have to be. It is a really good idea to find out where you stand legally so that you know what your options are. Find a practice that offers a mediation service too. This demonstrates a real commitment to amicable divorces. Then when you have had your initial meeting, the key is to take your time. Making the decision to divorce does not have to be a New Year rush and you should only go ahead if you are certain that it is the right thing to do.”

LP PL ST

X TA

AT I

Introducing Pete Miller, specialist corporate tax consultant with The Miller Partnership

A RT NE RP RS HI

THE M IL

Glynis Wright Head of Practice Glynis Wright & Co www.glyniswright.co.uk

SPECI

Corporation tax: An opportunity, not a threat

The mere mention of corporation tax can strike fear into the hearts of company directors. But, with timely specialist advice, businesses can not only reduce their tax liability, but use tax reliefs to grow and prosper, explains specialist tax advisor Pete Miller. Pete, who co-founded The Miller Partnership in Leicester three years ago, has 27 years’ expertise in business taxation. A former Inspector of Taxes with the Inland Revenue, Pete held posts in tax policy and technical divisions before spending 11 years with Big Four firms. Today, his consultancy provides essential advice to businesses of all sizes and in all sectors, as well as helping shape aspects of the UK’s corporation tax regime through Pete’s involvement with HMRC. “We act as an economic accelerator by advising clients on how to grow their businesses through the best use of tax reliefs, such as Patent Box. “We have been at the forefront of proselytising this relief, how it works and how to claim it. “Hypothetically a business paying £100,000 of corporation tax, could, thanks to The Patent Box, see that liability cut to 10 per cent – a saving of £50,000.” “Even if you don’t yet hold a patent, you could benefit by applying for one now, as relief starts to accumulate when the patent is applied for.” “We also advise on the taxation of corporate transactions, delivering the most efficient tax position and ensuring that HMRC clearances are granted without undue complication. Our strategies for property investment groups, using new company law, allows reconstructions and demergers, benefitting companies by limiting the extensive charges of Stamp Duty Land Tax.” For further information please contact Pete Miller

Direct Line: 0116 208 1020 Mobile: 07802 197269 Email: pete.miller@themillerpartnership.com Business advice Over the years I’ve a seen a fair few businesses and talked to the owners behind them. Every year we sit down to discuss the good points and bad points and what they hope to change and achieve in the future. Here’s an insight into the pearls of wisdom I’ve heard from the entrepreneurs who have grown their business from scratch to inspiring levels. People management

Business Advice

Management should be about support, helping others to complete their tasks and allowing those people the authority to complete the task on the company’s behalf. They might not get the correct answer every time, but as long as the good out weights the bad and their knowledge develops year upon year, the end result should be overall company growth. Exit strategy Before you begin, work out how and when you plan to leave. If you can’t see a way out then you’ll find it hard to sleep at night. Your long term exit doesn’t have to be written in stone, but your in case of emergency exit plan needs to be clear from the beginning with time frames and amounts of money you’re willing to invest. Time management Delegate as much as you can to your staff, this allows you time to work on developing your business, rather than working within your business. Your to do lists should now consist of higher level decisions and actions, work through it line by line trying not to skip to the exciting parts. Remember to keep a work/life balance tiredness can lead you to making bad decisions, so rest to stay sharp and precise and you’ll be more efficient. www.whitehallaccountants.co.uk

New Year, New Beginnings: Your Personal Finance Checklist The beginning of a new year is a great time to give your finances

It’s the New Year – time to make a fresh start with your finances When did you last check your Pensions?

an MOT. Start as you mean to go on by checking your investments, policies and your pension provisions on an annual basis. I’ve compiled a shortlist to help you undertake your own financial Annual Review: • ISA Allowances: It’s important you plan how to use your ISA

allowance well before the end of the tax year in April 2015 – don’t wait for the end of year rush. If you don’t use your allowance in this tax year you won’t be able to backdate it once the tax year finishes. The limit is now £15,000 so this is a fantastic opportunity for you to save in a tax efficient way.

Are you paying too much tax on your savings and investments?

• Pensions: 2015 is a big year for pensions as the rules have changed

Are your investments on target to achieve your goals and aspirations?

retirement is important, and having regular reviews may help you cover

I can...

make the most of any Tax Benefits, such as Capital Gains and ISA

•

Help you with your Tax Efficient Savings and Investments.

• Help you review your existing Pension Provisions. •

Help you when life doesn’t go to plan with Life, Critical Illness and Income Protection.

• Help you when you need it the most – Lifestyle changes such as Marriage, Divorce, Bereavement, Retirement, Inheritance and Redundancy.

dramatically. Do you know how much you will receive once you retire? Are you on track for a comfortable retirement? Having a goal for your any shortfalls. • Investments: Make sure you review your existing investments and allowances. Ensure you check all of your investments and see how Tax Efficient they are. Inflation can have a big impact on Cash Based Accounts such as Cash ISAs (NISA’s) and bank accounts with low interest rates.

• Life, Critical Illness and Income Protection: Dust off the paperwork and check your policies will pay out what you need them to in the event your life situation changes. Have there been any significant changes to you or your family, e.g. new children? You never know what’s around the corner - don’t be caught out by having the wrong policy in place for

“I am passionate about helping my clients make the most of their finances.”

your lifestyle.

Please contact me today for more information.

cover your loved ones in the event of your death? Are you aware of the

No fee for your first consultation

£3,000 you can give away as an exemption to Inheritance Tax known

Julie Langton, Wealth Management Partner

Inheritance Tax and is well worth planning for.

E: julielangton@tpllp.com T: 0116 2711031 M: 07753 190899 www.julielangton.tpllp.co.uk True Potential Wealth Management 1 Stoughton Grange Farm, Gartree Road, Oadby, Leicester, LE2 2FB Registered Head Office: Newburn House, Gateway West, Newburn Riverside, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE15 8NX. True Potential Wealth Management LLP is regulated and authorised by the Financial Services Authority. FSR number 529810

• Inheritance tax planning: Do you have an up-to-date Will that would

as your Annual Allowance? This will be immediately exempt from any

If you need further information on any of the above, please contact Julie Langton, Wealth Management Partner at True Potential Wealth Management. www.julielangton.tpllp.co.uk Tel: 0116 2711031. Mobile: 07753 190899.

Email: julielangton@tpllp.com.

Disclaimer: Capital at risk. Tax rules can change at any time. True Potential Wealth Management is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. FSR number 529810.

NICHE 93

BOUTIQUE FAMILY LAW FIRM IN LEICESTER EXPANDS AGAIN! Glynis Wright Family Solicitors and Mediators & Co was set up three years ago and has rapidly become one of the leading family law firms in the Midlands. The practice is based in the city centre of Leicester and is a niche firm specialising in all aspects of family law and mediation.

Meet the Team

Glynis wright Head of Practise

Gayle Rowley Senior Family solicitor

sushma kotecha associate Family solicitor

The founder of the practice is Glynis Wright. Glynis became a family solicitor at forty. She secured a Distinction in Law at University and achieved an award for academic excellence from the Law Society. Within 2 years of qualifying as a Solicitor, she was made a partner in a local firm having established herself as a much sought after divorce lawyer with a substantial client following. She also qualified as a family mediator at that time and is one of only a few mediators in the country qualified to consult with children in the mediation process. Glynis is highly committed to the mediation process. She says “I get to see both sides because as well as carrying a large caseload of clients who instruct me as their family Solicitor I also deal with a caseload of couples who approach me to be their mediator. The fact that I am a mediator as well as a family Solicitor means that all of my work is based on trying to settle matters without acrimony wherever possible.” Glynis decided to go it alone in 2011 and launched her niche practice Glynis Wright & Co. Since then, her practice has grown rapidly. She now employs seven members of staff. Glynis considers that the success of her practice is due to the fact that Glynis and her team specialise in nothing but family law and mediation cases and are committed to out of court settlements using alternative “solutions based” methods such as mediation and arbitration. Her team are all specialist family lawyers like Glynis with years of experience and a real passion for providing a superb service to people who are often facing one of the worst times of their lives. Glynis expanded her practice by taking on Sushma Kotecha last year. Sushma qualified as a Solicitor in 1994. She is a specialist in her

field having practised family law for over 20 years. She has Resolution accredited status and is also a qualified family mediator. Sushma received an outstanding evaluation from her assessors for her mediation work. Sushma says “Mediation can really help to break down the barrier of mistrust and anger that can so often hold settlement up – whether the dispute is over finances or the children. When it works, it is hugely rewarding for me and for my clients and can be a fraction of the cost.” Sushma is highly regarded as a consummate family law professional and is known by clients and fellow professionals alike for encouraging a nonconfrontational approach to resolving family disputes. The most recent recruit to Glynis Wright & Co is Gayle Rowley. Gayle qualified in 1997 and brings 17 years of family law experience to the team. Glynis says “Gayle is an outstanding lawyer. She obtained a First Class degree in Law winning the Herbert Smith prize in her final year and went on to obtain a Distinction in the Legal Practices Course. In 2004, she was one of a handful of lawyers in Leicester to obtain accreditation with the national body Resolution, gaining recognition as a specialist in matrimonial finance and private children law. I am delighted that she has chosen to join the practice. Her reputation as a highly talented and popular family lawyer precedes her appointment to my practice.” There are few law firms that can boast such a wealth of expertise in family matters under one roof or such a high calibre of Solicitors as Glyns Wright & Co who are rapidly becoming one of the most sought after family practices in Leicester. In 2011 when Glynis Wright set up the company, she was operating from small first floor offices in Bowling Green Street. Now the

company has expanded into a 3 storey building at 5, Bowling Green Street, Leicester and is hoping to recruit another senior specialist family lawyer in forthcoming months to grow the team further. The practice offers the whole range of family law services including divorce, financial settlements, civil partnership dissolution, disputes about children and the drafting of nuptial agreements. The practice also draws up agreements for people moving in together, and deals with disputes that can arise when cohabitees split up. In addition, Glynis Wright & Co offer a specialist family mediation service for those who wish to resolve their differences in a more positive way than battling it out in court. If you have any enquiries about family law, divorce, mediation or any other related legal matter, you can contact Glynis, Sushma or Gayle at Glynis Wright & Co on enquiries@glyniswright.co.uk or call on 0116 238 5680. Any of the team will welcome the opportunity of speaking with you personally. You can also visit the website of Glynis Wright & Co on www.glyniswright.co.uk and complete the contact form if you would like us to contact you for an appointment to discuss a family law matter or for mediation.

NICHE 139

The short answer is yes. From 6 April 2015, if you are aged over 55, you will be able to take a lump sum of 25% of your pension tax free, together with the remainder of your pension which will be taxed as earned income at your marginal rate.

Can I really cash in my pension in 2015 and buy a Lamborghini?

However, prices for a new Lamborghini Aventador LP 700–4 Roadster start from £294,700 and so, even ignoring any extras required and the car insurance, you would need a pension pot of circa £520,000 to end up with about £294,700 in your hand. As the average defined contribution pension pot in the UK only amounts to about £30,000, I guess the Lamborghini dealerships won’t be that busy! On a serious note, when faced with a pension fund that can be taken out in one go, many people will be faced with a dilemma. The marketplace has lots of temptations and investors should think twice before cashing in their pension pot to purchase assets such as a buy-to-let property or an unauthorised get-rich-quick investment scheme. In our view, an increase in flexibility and pension freedom, coupled with the available tax advantages, should still put pensions at the top for savings alongside ISAs/NISAs. In a changing marketplace, it is more important than ever to receive the right advice and opportunities in order to make informed decisions regarding retirement planning, so that you are able to sustain your lifestyle choice in retirement. Mattioli Woods plc is one of the UK’s leading providers of wealth management and employee benefits services with over £4.8 billion of assets under advice and administration. By building long-term relationships, our aim is to provide trusted advice, high service standards and personalised delivery.

Karena, Senior Consultant at Mattioli Woods.

www.mattioliwoods.com

0116 240 8700

The long held myth that PR is just smoke and mirrors and doesn’t actually make a measurable and positive difference to your business is just that – a myth.

PR … It’s Just Smoke and Mirrors Isn’t It?

Strategically considered and appropriately creative PR campaigns have proven themselves time and time again to the businesses bold enough to welcome them into their sales and marketing mix. Take, for example, the work planned and undertaken for a well-known local restaurant and hotel. With fierce competition within the city and county this particular client had big ambitions to become the number one venue for afternoon teas in the city. By commissioning a strategic PR campaign that mixed traditional media with social media they not only achieved their ambition of being recognised on Google as the number one place in the city for afternoon teas, but they reported an increase in sales of over 50%. Other areas of their business also saw an increase in sales as they took full advantage of the opportunity to upsell to patrons having afternoon tea with them. Having achieved their ambitions they abruptly stopped the campaign, lost the edge they had built up and sales across the business plummeted back to pre-campaign levels. What’s the lesson to be learnt here? Don’t switch on a PR campaign only to switch it off as soon as you start to see results. Run too short a PR campaign and the roots will not be well enough established to keep delivering results when you switch if off. www.rdz-pr.co.uk

rachel.hargrave@rdz-pr.co.uk

01509 813 913

A topical subject for many clients is when they need to implement auto-enrolment, and what the cost of auto-enrolment will be to them.

Auto-enrolment

Auto-enrolment is a Government initiative aimed at helping employees to put something aside for their retirement. The scheme, which started in 2012, will affect every business employing at least one member of staff, and places responsibility on the employer to ensure that a qualifying pension scheme is available, from an allocated ‘staging’ date, for all employees. The largest employers have already implemented the scheme and all employees will be enrolled into a qualified pension scheme by February 2018 (unless they have opted out). The total yearly pension contribution per employee is initially set at 2% of earnings, at least 1% being contributed by the employer. This will increase to 8% contribution, at least 3% from the employer, by late 2018. From early 2015, it is expected that 50,000 businesses will be auto-enrolled each month. It is therefore essential for employers to prepare well before their staging date, as specialist pension providers will need time to plan and implement each policy. The National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) has been established by the Government as a pension scheme provider that is obliged to accept all employers who apply to join it. The Pensions Regulator website offers plenty of helpful information, such as staging dates, employer duties, and a quick calculator tool to enable an employer to work out the cost of auto-enrolment. If you would like to find out more about auto-enrolment and how it may affect you, please speak to us on 0116 2423400, or contact us at info@torrwaterfield.co.uk Peter Morris, Director, FCA

HELPING YOUR WEALTH MATURE TO PERFECTION We provide our clients with an allembracing approach, designed to develop a clear strategy for their financial plans.

MATTIOLI WOODS HAS PROVIDED ME WITH A SOLID PLATFORM FOR THE FUTURE AND CLARITY OF WHERE I WILL BE FINANCIALLY OVER THE WEALTH MANAGEMENT & EMPLOYEE BENEFITS COMING YEARS. YOU CANNOT PUT A PRICE ON THIS, IT PROVIDES A GREAT DEAL OF PEACE OF MIND.

Liz Kennedy

A long-standing client

WEALTH MANAGEMENT

PENSIONS

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

Call 0116 240 8700 or visit www.mattioliwoods.com Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

Exquisite event catering from The Dimblebee Catering Company These multi award-winning high quality caterers are the outside caterer of choice for companies and corporate events who want to wow their visitors and guests. With Dimblebee’s their passion for food and exceptional service is not just a catchphrase, it shows in everything and every event they do. “Dimblebee Catering is a team, approachable and dedicated to listening and delivering what our Client’s want, we are not about promoting our individual egos as Chefs or offering gimmicks!” Sam Dimblebee, Head Chef Catering for up to 900 per day in any event location your guests can savour the delicious and stylish authentic handmade and homemade by Sam and her team; with ingredients sourced from the best local suppliers you can be assured that any event will be catered for with their professional, personable, family-run service. Testimony to their remarkable achievements since their establishment in 2011 The Dimblebee Catering Company have catered for some prestigious guests and venues including the Red Bull F1 team, Donington Park, Aston Martin and even Orlando Bloom. Whether you require sit-down dining, canapé receptions, buffets, bowl foods or a BBQ you will receive flexible professional service and delicious stylish food at your choice of venue; The Dimblebee Catering Company is an established high quality catering company, audited and approved by some of the Midlands best venues and corporate clients and recommended by their guests.

Quality Outside Catering & Wedding Caterers

“I was particularly impressed with the catering and cateringinstaff that were provided at the event. Both my husband and I were really impressed with Leicestershire & the Midlands. the standard, quality, the different ideas for food and presentation. The staff that were present at the event were also very attentive and personable.” 07811 232801 www.dimblebeecatering.co.uk Claire, attendee at info@dimblebeecatering.co.uk the King Richard III Visitor Centre VIP preview event www.dimblebeecatering.co.uk

0116 2835626

info@dimblebeecatering.co.uk

Quality Outside Catering in Leicestershire & the Midlands 07811 232801

info@dimblebeecatering.co.uk

www.dimblebeecatering.co.uk

The Mattioli Woods Christmas event on 10 December 2014 took place at their

Group Office on Grove Park in Enderby. The evening was a great success with

over 130 guests in attendance and was

an informal gathering for both clients and new connections, providing an excellent opportunity to meet the team during the festive season.

The event featured clients of Mattioli

Woods, including wine tasting sessions from Roger at Big Wines, a display of jewellery and watches from Dominic at Lumbers as well as beer tasting

from family brewery Everards, which

showcased its four core ales, including

Tiger Best Bitter, Beacon Bitter, Premium Ale Original and Sunchaser Blonde in addition to a couple of limited edition brews.

Local food experts Dimblebee Catering

Company were also on hand to feed the guests during the evening.

The Christmas event came at an exciting time for the Group, following a strong

performance update in December 2014,

as it progresses as a 21st century financial services business built on the integrity and expertise of its people, who continue to

help and advise clients with real passion.

NICHE 99

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Razor sharp strategy combined with creativity and powerful storytelling will give you the results you wantâ&#x20AC;? Rachel Hargrave, Agency Director, RDZ PR

Raising your profile one story at a time

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

0150 9813 913

www.rdz-pr.co.uk 100

What are your 2015 New Year Resolutions? Grow your business? Increase your profit? Raise your profile? Protect your reputation?

PR and the Web; morning sessions 17th March & 5th May, ½ day, £45 The vital importance of the web to your PR campaign Blogging – the do’s and don’ts Media / press / news pages on your website Engaging with online forums; the good, the bad and the ugly

Crisis Communications; afternoon sessions 17th February & 7th April, ½ day, £150

One of the ways you can achieve all of these and much, much more is by fully understanding and utilising PR. At RDZ PR we’ll happily share with you the knowledge that we have to ensure your business success.

What is crisis comms?

Choose from our regularly held workshops listed below or commission us to design and deliver something specifically tailored to your business and its needs. We’re here to spread the word that razor sharp strategy combined with creativity and powerful storytelling WILL give you the results that you want!

What to do if it all goes legal

An Introduction to PR; morning sessions 17th February & 7th April, ½ day, £45 What is PR? Creating meaningful PR campaign objectives The strategic PR plan! How to write a press release The power and importance of photography

PR and Social Media; morning sessions 3rd March & 21st April ½ day, £45 The importance of social media to your strategic PR plan Let’s look at Twitter Let’s look at LinkedIn Using Hootsuite The importance of a Social Media Policy

Being proactive; crisis comms planning, strategy and implementation Being reactive; reacting to a crisis - the do’s and don’ts Responding to the press

Media Training; afternoon sessions 3rd March & 21st April, ½ day, £75 How do the media operate? What do you need to know about journalists? How to prepare for an interview with a member of the media Live interview and feedback session

Media Training; full day sessions 17th March & 5th May, £150 All of the content from the ½ day workshop but the 1 day course also includes recording a taped interview, feedback on the interview and recording a second taped interview. Places are strictly limited to ensure all attendees get the absolute maximum from attending. Prices quoted are per attendee. Discounts may be available for multiple bookings. For further information or to discuss bespoke training requirements please contact Rachel Hargrave at RDZ PR via email: rachel.hargrave@rdz-pr.co.uk or by calling our office: 0150 9813 913.

Welcome to our world of PR!

NICHE 101

As Virtual Assistants we work with you in a similar fashion to an office assistant or PA. The big difference is you are not committed to an annual salary!

Your Virtual Assistant

Working from our offices we pick up your work load and do the job without getting under your feet. My team and I work with many different types of businesses from sole traders to large multi-national organisations. For example: - Sole traders with a busy schedule needs to spend time out the office attending appointments. We answer calls and book further appointments. - New-start businesses struggling to market their business effectively as they do not have the relevant skills. We collate sales contacts into an email marketing list and create a marketing plan. We also take on the cold-calling campaigns for the business. - Companies who would like to spend more time on planning and generating income. We take control of all the on-going administrative tasks, such as, invoicing, chasing up payments & updating the website. The tasks we provide are limitless and tailored to your company needs, what do you need? - Online research, Composing and sending emails, Organising travel arrangements, Managing your diary and sending you reminders, Liaising with suppliers, Customer management, Creating contact information and documentation for marketing campaigns, Poster and flyer design, Tracking and sending invoices & Call answering. At Complete Solutions, all our assistants are experienced and possess the skills to create great working relationships with all types of businesses. Get in touch now for a free no obligation consultation. 0116 318 3598 info@completepa.co.uk

UK’s Leading Business Community for Female Executives and Entrepreneurs

When asked how to sum up the female-only networking group, Athena, in three words, Liz Eaton, Regional Director, replied: support, friendship and guidance. This is why Athena excels as a networking group: experiences are shared, friendships are formed, and strong alliances are built between local, professional business women. Great business relations lead to highly profitable opportunities being passed between members and beyond. What’s more, with helpful, relevant and informative business and networking training each month, members can progress with their own self-development too. Liz, who is also a Chartered Management Accountant with her own firm, Soar Accounting, decided to start the first Athena group in Leicester after a fruitless search for a suitable womenonly business group in the area. “We had a fantastic response to the launch of our first group in Leicester and I’m delighted we were able to launch a second group so quickly to meet the demand.” Now, approaching its third year, the Leicester Athena groups have gone from strength to strength, attracting members from all sectors of business and industry including financial services, health and wellbeing, insurance, business services and even a well-respected, local artist. For more information on the Athena Network, please contact Samantha Dalton, Regional Manager, on 0116 287 8100 or email liz.eaton@theathenanetwork.com

Hi 2 Events of Leicester are renowned for their professional event and conference planning services, winning them acclaim throughout Leicestershire and the East Midlands; but their repertoire does not stop here in the UK with a selection of Italian Tours on the menu for 2015.

A taste of Italy from the event experts

With many years’ experience of coordinating and delivering superb overseas events and conferences the team at Hi 2 Events are able to offer a range of Italian tours - perfect for singles to large groups who have a love for fine food and wine (that immediately includes us!). Their Italian culinary tours (from half days upwards), wine tasting and cookery classes in the heart of the Verona province and a stone’s throw away from Lake Garda; the perfect location to source and sauté the world’s finest ingredients. Luisa Zecchinato shares her expertise with guests in the ancient home she inhabits in South Verona, or for large groups, her partner villas and wineries in Valpolicella and Soave; half day cookery classes allow a hands on experience, learning how to prepare and savour the number 1 cuisine in the world with dishes such as risotto, polenta and handmade pastas, and for those of you who prefer to sample without the preparation the culinary tours offer you an opportunity to do just that; enjoying the best local foods in Verona, the fourth most visited city in Italy, and an exquisite setting offering a perfect complement to the cuisine. No Italian culinary experience would be complete without a selection of infamous Italian wines to accompany, included with your culinary experience or alone, you can sample the very best wines the Province has to offer in the elegant surroundings of the wineries and ancient cellars Verona possesses. To find out more about how to book a genuine Italian experience visit www.hi2events.co.uk or phone Elaine on 0116 240 2330.

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Leicester’s Premier Conference and Events Location The perfect venue for your next meeting • A diverse mix of rooms • Competitive rates • Outstanding catering • Free Wifi throughout • City centre location • Experienced co-ordinators • Organised city centre parking

www.stmartinshouse.com 0116 2615200

7 P e a c o c k L a n e , L e i c e s t e r. L E 1 5 P Z

NICHE 117

today! ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Gas

If you are looking for ways to save money in 2015 we have the perfect solution in the form of Utility Warehouse. David Goadby is one of Utility Warehouse’s Authorised Distributors and has saved us £££’s Utility Warehouse is a unique ‘one stop shop’ for all your utilities; with their energy price guarantee, no unfair cancellation fees, referral incentives and a cash back scheme as well as award winning customer service, this is definitely a supplier to consider.

Electricity

ings made by cardholders on their Utility Warehouse etween 20% and 50%; hundreds more achieved

Get utility-lean in 2015

“As a former energy company employee I like to think of myself as pretty energy savvy so when I moved house recently I was keen to speak to David,” Cross Productions Journalist, Sarah explained. “We are tied in to contracts on some of our utilities but we’ll be adding those when we can, we’re already saving on our gas and electric and with the cash back card it’s even cheaper than we thought!” With Utility Warehouse you can choose from a selection of bundles to meet your home or business needs including phone, broadband, mobile and energy, with highly competitive prices you can get all your utilities from one provider and on one bill. Utility Warehouse offers all its customers the opportunity to benefit from their cash back scheme where you can redeem cash back on your shopping from a number of high street retailers, allowing you to earn money to offset against your utility bills just from doing your normal shopping. Niche Company Director Jenny Cross switched over to a cash back credit card and is saving £60 a month on bills, is getting cash back on high street shopping, and gets even more off bills now she is a gold member. To find out how much you could save on your 2015 bills, contact David for a free informal consultation www.save-earnmoney.co.uk If you’re a Leicester City business interested in saving money, increasing productivity and laying the foundations for future growth then the Carbon Management for Leicester SME’s project was designed with you in mind and could be helping you to reap the benefits of free, impartial energy efficiency advice and consultancy or even award you a grant of up to £1000 to improve your business’ prospects.

ACT NOW - don’t let your business get left out in the cold.

The project is funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and offers opportunities for B2B businesses in Leicester City to increase their business’ efficiency and decrease their energy overheads through a variety of energy saving avenues. For example; improvements in heating, lighting or insulation, increased awareness through supporting behavioural change or specialist consultancy to help you get the most out of your business, efficiently. Grants are available for all manner of energy saving initiatives, big or small; from changing your lighting or insulating properly through to replacing an out-dated boiler; the figures speak for themselves: • A manufacturing business which was awarded a £1,000 grant to install energy efficient lighting is expected to save £1,100 per year. • An SME was able to save 49% of the costs to install LED lighting, and is estimated to save £600 per year on lighting costs. That’s up to £1,100 per year back where it belongs, on your bottom line, just by completing a short questionnaire and submitting your application to the Carbon Management project. What’s the catch? There is none; however you need to act now. The deadline for new applications is January 2015 so don’t waste energy worrying about heating and electricity bills; increase your efficiency and increase your net profit! For more information or to apply for an Energy Efficiency grant visit leicester.gov.uk/energygrant or contact the team on 0116 454 2232 or email energygrant@leicester.gov.uk With over 40 years combined experience across a diverse range of industries including Commercial, Sales, Fashion, Hospitality and Legal. Complete Recruit are aptly named. Based in Leicestershire and with offices in Leicester and Milton Keynes, Complete Recruit are the ‘go to’ recruitment agency for employers and candidates alike; whether it be permanent, contract or temporary positions Complete Recruit have a reputation for assimilating a client’s needs and matching the perfect candidates to the perfect roles.

It’s all in the name

Recruitment can be a costly, time consuming and legally delicate process for any employer and without the expertise needed or the resources can become a gigantean task which often does not have the reach to attract the ideal candidate, nor the knowledge. As with any professional service, such as Accountancy or Legal professions, it is increasingly recognised that engaging a recruitment professional will produce a better return on investment for many employers and will forge long-lasting relationships for you and your business. “The vast quantity of groundwork that you do within your pre-screening routines in preparing and presenting a consistently high standard of candidates for interview is remarkable, and often done on very tight time-scales indeed.” Contact Centre Manager/Client Recruitment however, is a two-sided coin and only those recruiters able to attract and retain the best candidates will excel. This is where Complete Recruit offer any potential employer a definite competitive advantage; through careful selection and great relationship building with candidates the team at Complete Recruit can locate the gems of the East Midlands and present them to your business. www.completerecruit.co.uk

104

0116 208 1255

d.leppard@completerecruit.co.uk

Grant for Energy Efficiency Carbon Management for Leicester SMEs is offering local SMEs* in Leicester City a grant of up to £1000** for energy efficiency improvements.

Increasing the energy efficiency of your business can have several benefits including saving money on utility bills, increased productivity, increasing the longevity of machinery and creating new opportunities for business. The grant can be used towards a number of energy efficiency improvements, for example: • Energy efficient heating: condensing or combi boiler, efficient electric radiators, renewable heating systems Follow us! MangSME @Carbon

• Energy efficient lighting and lighting controls • Insulation: roof, loft, solid and cavity wall • Thermal imaging survey • 2 days free specialist consultancy

A free environmental survey is also available to all organisations in Leicester which will highlight the ‘no and low cost’ measures to increase energy efficiency.

* Must be trading business-to-business. ** A 40% SME contribution is required.

If you would like to book a site visit or for further information contact:

leicester.gov.uk/energygrant energygrant@leicester.gov.uk

0116 454 2232 NICHE 105

Inspirational Women in Business 2015 in association with Glynis Wright Solicitors

DESIGN + PRINT

Soar Valley Press

An opportunity to network with the best of Leicester’s successful, driven women in business at a relaxed event in the city centre.

St. Martin’s House

20th March 2015 10.00-14.00

“Soar Valley Press make a big impression with an artwork installation at

£15.00 Admission includes sandwiches, tea and cake Book your ticket now at www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/inspirationalwomen-in-business-2015-tickets-14989464893

Crown Hills Community College”

Think big to reach new customers Telling potential clients about what you offer is really important to every business. Soar Valley Press helps many local companies, large and small, to improve their communications and get their message across to the people that matter.

DESIGN + PRINT

Soar Valley Press

The range of experience and capacity that this Leicestershire business can utilise has recently been increased with new investments in large format solutions. Managing Director, Chris Goodman commented, “Our clients love the results we can

Think BIG for all your print needs

produce in-house on all their marketing literature and the recent investment has increased our work producing big materials like banners, exhibition panels, posters and canvas prints.” The design team at Soar Valley Press has also expanded to meet the increased demand, which they say is the result

We are here to help you really get noticed

Contact us now Get in touch for the right solution to make a big impression 0116 259 9955 www.soarvalleypress.co.uk big@soarvalleypress.co.uk

of producing great results for its clients. Lesley Denton of Kelmarsh Hall says,

“The people at Soar Valley Press go the extra mile, are great at design, deliver on time and are a pleasure to work with.” With over 15 years experience in the marketing, design and print of high quality literature, with the experts at Soar Valley Press, your business brand is in some of the safest hands in the industry. The team is always willing to sit down and offer free advice over a coffee so get in touch on 0116 259 9955 or visit

BANNERS to BROCHURES to BUSINESS CARDS 106

www.soarvalleypress.co.uk

Re cr u itm ent Finding the perfect next step for your career or

The agency will use their expertise to advertise,

the newest addition to your businesses team

shortlist, interview and appoint the right staff to

your position and your business.

can fill candidates and employers alike with

your roles and they do all the leg work. If that’s

Conversely as a job seeker the vast array of

dread; however, there is really no need. Gone

not getting your money’s worth I’m not sure

websites, job boards and advertisements can

are the days of limited options, limited resources

what is!

be difficult to navigate and difficult to manage; registering with a recruitment agency is free and

and a huge financial drain on business profits to get the right people and right jobs at the right

For candidates alike, taking on a temporary

allows you to benefit from their contacts, their

time. With recruitment specialists like the team

role allows you to maintain your income whilst

sales abilities and their expertise to help you

at Complete Recruit the flexibility of workforces and roles is substantial yet simple…

in between permanent roles and gives you

refine your CV and practice your interview skills

and a potential employer the opportunity to

to ensure you find the right role for you and you

Temporary Teams

trial each other before making any permanent

secure it.

The great benefit of a temporary workforce is the flexibility it offers; for example, if you have

commitment. Temporary work offers flexibility and variety so you’ll never get bored of the 9-5.

a seasonal business you may not require 100

Permanent Positions

staff members all year round and therefore

As an employer permanent recruitment is an

you are able to employ the staff you need to meet your business demands however, a benefit often overlooked by employers is the cost savings you can also gain; the recruitment agency is responsible for tax, national insurance contributions and holiday pay for any PAYE temporary employees meaning you just have one hourly rate to pay and none of the hassle.

investment; and like any investment you wouldn’t make the leap without consulting the experts, which is why recruitment professionals exist. Finding the perfect candidate for the perfect salary is no easy task but with the assistance of the team at Complete Recruit the candidate pool

Recruitment has in the past been seen as troublesome, time consuming and expensive for employers and job seekers alike however, the savvy are profiting from great service and great solutions with companies like Complete Recruit (the name says it all!); so don’t waste your energy on trying to do everything yourself, take help and advice from the experts and you could reap the rewards of good recruitment.

is immediately expanded and their expertise works to shortlist you the best candidates to fit

Complete Solutions the Virtual Assistants working with you not for you Not enough hours in a day or days in a week? Need an extra pair of hands? Looking for someone you can rely on? The tasks we provide are limitless and tailored to your company needs At Complete Solutions, all our assistants are experienced and possess the skills to create great working relationships with all types of businesses.

Get in touch now for a free no obligation consultation.

0116 318 3598 info@completepa.co.uk CompletePA.co.uk

NICHE 107

Simple, innovative, honest With an average ‘tech’ tenure of 7 years across their team members, SH Consulting are the experts in Search Engine Optimisation (SEO). The business was founded in 2012 after the successful sale of their previous SEO business, bought by a stock-market quoted PLC after its own remarkable success. With over 10 years experience in innovative online thinking, SH Consulting are a ‘go to’ company if you are looking to increase your exposure and conversions online, no matter your industry. Between them their specialist team have been instrumental in some of e-commerce’s world firsts such as the first online mall, first trading MP3 site and the first micro-payment site. They have built websites, managed software developers and raised £2m venture capital funding for online innovation back in the early 1990’s (when the internet was ‘new’). SH Consulting are based in the heart of the Midlands, with 95% of all their work taking place here in the UK, and are a credit to the Midlands economy. Not only do they operate with high ethical values and competitive pricing but they are refreshingly approachable and sincere. Despite their wealth of experience they are honest, approachable and understandable; a welcome turnaround to the stereotypical ‘tech’ spiel so many e-commerce and IT firms talk in for most layman! Quality SEO is an essential element for the majority of businesses in 2015 and without guidance it is difficult, if nigh on impossible, to truly optimise on your web presence without some help. “Online channels now impact over a third of all commerce. Top position on Google can equal 21% market share”. But with specialists in Search for as long as Google, SH Consultancy have the credentials and the credibility to help grow your business online.

Life Changing Bracelet to necklace transformation! Wear it long or short, with clip and slide on accessories!

Miss World 2014

Jane Mason leading style consultant

from your leading style consultant Jane Mason

Call me for a free personal consultation and to view the new collection www.miglio.co.uk/jane-mason 108

07860255121

“I love the versatility of the Miglio Jewellery Collection (Swarovski, burnished silver, pearl and leather) and when I saw it, I wanted it all! So decided to have my own Miglio Independent Style Consultancy. I love helping women complete their look, whether for business or pleasure!”

www.facebook.com/janemasonmiglio @janemasonmiglio

Supporting you safely through your financial life

Quick or same day decisions No hidden costs No penalties for paying early Fair Money Values

Responsible and affordable short term alternatives to payday loans Affordable flexible repayments Highly competitive

For more information or to apply online please visit www.clockwise.coop, email enquiries@clockwise.coop or call 0116 242 3900 Clockwise Credit Union Limited, Reg. No. FRN213498 is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Clockwise is a member of the Financial Services Compensation Scheme, the Financial Ombudsman Service and ABCUL.

facebook.com/Clockwisecu

@Clockwise_CU

Registered Office: 1 St Nicholas Place, Leicester, LE1 5LB

Time to improv e yo u r finance s With the credit crunch not showing signs of

and save themselves money – something

to get it out, allows= you to set aside certain

abating any time soon and with money worries

relatively unheard of with money lenders. Their

pots of money for expenses like rent and bills so

still hanging over most people’s heads, Niche

responsible lending makes them stand out from

that you always have money in your account for

magazine was pleased to hear about Clockwise

other lenders in a market known for its dark side. those expenses.

– one of the UK’s fastest growing financial co-operatives. Because Clockwise is a not-for-

It’s because of Clockwise’s ethical ethos that

They also offer loans for small amounts such as

profit organisation they pass the savings directly

they have a lot of repeat customers. They

£50, something most banks won’t do because

to their members, helping them to stay out of

operate just for the people who either live or work they will get a low return and won’t make much

financial difficulties.

in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland and

profit, ensuring that people only borrow what

they keep money within the local community. At

they need. People can also top up existing loans

In times of financial worries people often

the end of each financial year, any cash surplus

within a pre-agreed limit. With APRs as low as

turn wherever they can to get extra cash but

generated by Clockwise is also given back to

8.7% and no higher than 42.6% compared to

end up having to make huge repayments to

around 9,000 active members as a dividend

some competitors who charge up to 632%,

doorstop lenders, money shops and some

on savings.

Clockwise makes it easier for people to get

banks. With finances having been stretched

affordable loans. If members want to pay their

over Christmas, Clockwise can help people

Among Clockwise’s most popular products is

loans back earlier they also don’t have to pay

consolidate all of their debts in the New Year.

the budgeting account, which they call ‘The Jam

outstanding interest.

Clockwise offers low cost loans and budgeting

Jar Account’. A lot of people get paid at the start

options, and carry out assessments to ensure

of the month and lose track of bills coming out

To find out more about Clockwise please visit

that people do not borrow more than they can

at different dates, often going overdrawn and

www.clockwise.coop or call 0116 242 3906.

afford to repay. What’s more, they will tell their

attracting charges. The Jam Jar account, entitled

clients if they could get a better offer elsewhere

because it’s easier to put money in but harder

NICHE 109

Leicester for Business 2014 awards ceremony winners Leicester for Business, a business support organisation that helps businesses sustain, prosper and grow, hosted its second awards ceremony recently at the Y Theatre. Over 150 attendees supported the awards shortlisted finalists across seven categories. The awards ceremony was opened by Sam Larke, a member of the consortium Leicester for Business. Jane Albon – Founder, Managing Director and herself an award winning Entrepreneur was the evenings keynote speaker. Entertainment was provided by singer Verity Hunt-Sheppard and Mark Elliott an acoustic musician. Closing remarks were made by Mike Kapur, Confederation of British Industry’s Head of Enterprise Forum. The first award of the evening was the New Business of the Year award, sponsored by Niche magazine, a business and lifestyle magazine covering Leicester and Leicestershire, the award was presented by Leanne Baker, Operations Director at Niche. The winner of the award was Pop Up Nurseries. Other nominees included North, Fox & Co, Cotton Ink, Creative Cat FX, Family Care Agency, Spaceshare Limited, The Dimblebee Catering Company Limited, and Eagle Care Alternatives Limited. Next, the Woman’s Start-up of the Year award, was presented by Barbara Hodgson of the Women In Business Network, a membership organisation for women who wish to gain new business opportunities through word of mouth referrals. The winner was Pop Up Nurseries. Other nominees included North, Fox & Co, Advantage Law Limited, City Laser & Skin Clinic, The Dimblebee Catering Company Limited, CMD Fitness, and Eagle Care Alternatives Limited. The Innovation award was sponsored by Incubate Leicester, who provide support and funding to e-commerce and e-service start-ups in the Midlands so that the businesses move forward faster. Constantina Muston presented the award to Access 2 View. Other nominees included Spaceshare Limited, Seed Creativity, Creative Cat FX, and The Dimblebee Catering Company.

The winner of the Existing Business Potential for Growth award winner was Cocoa Amore Limited, the award was presented by Mahmood Reza of Pro Active Resolutions, who help businesses of all types sustain and grow through the provision of financial and management accounting, business & training services. Other nominees included City Laser & Skin Clinic, Buzz Web Design, Iridescence, Cotton Ink, Access 2 View, Advantage Law Limited, Family Care Agency, and The Dimblebee Catering Company Limited. Business in the Community, who are working to shape a new contract between business and society, in order to secure a fairer society and a more sustainable future sponsored the Sustainable Business award. Beverley Toone presented the award to Earth Buds for a second year in a row. Other nominees included Saffron Acres, Cocoa Amore Limited, and Saffron Lane Neighbourhood Council. The Social Enterprise award winner was Youth Education Project, the award was presented by last year’s winner Nick Sharpe of Nifty Thinking, the only East Midlands based Creative Co-Operative Media Agency. Other nominees included Temple Learning Centre, Saffron Acres, Saffron Lane Neighbourhood Council, Iliffe Arts, Castle Park Solicitors Community Interest Company, and Smarti Paints. The final award was the Judges Award. The winners of each of the preceding six categories were entered into this award which – as the title may suggest – was then solely judged by the Leicester for Business Award Judges including John Jennings, Chair of the Institute of Directors for Leicestershire and the COO of Curve, Leicester, Vimal Chauhan of the Federation of Small Businesses and Managing Director of Drive My Car Home, and Mahmood Reza, Founder and Owner of Pro Active Resolutions. Paul Rowlett from EVERYTHING Branded, specialists in bespoke and overprinted promotional products for businesses around the world, presented the award to Access 2 View. If you are an established Leicester Business that requires support,Leicester for Business would love to hear from you, visit www.leicesterforbusiness.org.uk.

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Peacock

turns

The White

November saw The White Peacock celebrate itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first anniversary, with Phil Sharpe and Charlotte Miles hosting a VIP party that featured a jazz saxophonist and pudding themed canapes! The independently owned and passionately operated restaurant, which opened in November 2013, has had an amazing first year, which even saw them nominated for The Taste of England award at the Leicestershire Tourism Awards. Visit them at 14-16 King Street, Leicester. Call 0116 254 7663

NICHE 141

Inspirational Women in Business 2015 in association with Glynis Wright Solicitors An opportunity to network with some of Leicester’s most successful, driven women in business at an exciting event in the heart of the City. Niche Magazine is launching an exciting series of networking events to inspire and motivate Leicester’s women in business. This quarterly series is running in association with Glynis Wright, considered to be one of the most focused female professionals in the City. The first chapter in the series will take place on the 20th March and will be instrumental in helping attendees focus on their 2015 plans and offer invaluable support and advice to deliver success throughout the year. Hosted by Jenny Cross, with Glynis Wright and Cherie Concannon, both often referred to as the “best in the business”, as guest speakers, the talks will focus on marketing and business development solutions. With our trio of uber successful Leicestershire businesswomen, their heritage speaks for itself.

Jenny Cross

Company Director at Cross Productions, Niche Magazine We all love a good magazine and none more so than our very own Jenny Cross; with over 15 years’ experience in the publishing industry, Jenny is the founding director of Cross productions, an independent publishing house producing high end magazines. Niche Magazine is one of the main titles. Covering an array of topics across the titles from business, fashion, food, and weddings to charity awareness, special needs and education; Jenny’s vision has seen Niche Magazine more than treble in size in just over a year, winning Cross Productions acclaim locally and nationally. Sharing her expertise is something Jenny has a flair for and can often be seen sharing her knowledge across social media and at local networking events, including quarterly Niche Networking event in Leicester.

Venue: St.

Glynis Wright

Head of Practice and owner of Glynis Wright & Co. Family Solicitors and Mediators Following a successful career in the field of economic development, Glynis took the decision to retrain to be a lawyer at the age of 40. Graduating with multiple distinctions and securing a special award from the Law Society for academic excellence, Glynis quickly established herself as a motivated, self-driven professional with a real talent for family law issues. Within 2 years of qualifying as a Solicitor, Glynis was offered partnership by a leading Leicester practice that recognised her ability to attract new business and to maintain client loyalty. In 2011, Glynis decided that she would set up her own practice. Glynis Wright & Co has seen tremendous success since its inception. Notwithstanding this rapid growth, Glynis maintains a reputation for being one of the most approachable and popular family lawyers in Leicester, as well as being a perceptive and inspirational business woman, who loves to mentor and encourage other women who wish to set up their own businesses.

Martin’s House

Date: 20th

Cherie Concannon

Global Development Coach at cherieconcannon. com Cherie is an expert in corporate progression for top level executives and has a reputation for helping leaders realise their business objectives and teams to reach their full potential. Her dynamic approach and vast experience has helped leaders throughout some of the UK’s most successful corporations including Deloitte, DHL and Eversheds. Cherie works closely to choose the right management and leadership approaches for their business, their teams and their objectives and enabling them to drive the company and their employees forward towards an agreed goal. By equipping leaders with the skills to mentor and coach their teams Cherie’s techniques influence all areas of the businesses she works with and offer support through change and development as well as reinforcing motivation and commitment from employees across the board.

March 2015

Time: 10.00-14.00

Admission: £15.00 includes sandwiches, tea and cake Book using this link: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/inspirational-women-in-business-2015-tickets-14989464893 112

September 25th 2015

Recognising outstanding Leicestershire businesses and business professionals It takes ten minutes to nominate a company… what’s stopping you? Winners will be announced at a glamorous evening of awards on Friday 25th September 2015 The Niche Business Awards have been created to highlight and reward excellence across the

Leicestershire region; supporting both the private and public sectors to recognise local companies who truly LE

R PA RT N

THE

HIP

AT I

X TA

Closing dates for nominations midnight May 1st 2015

Nominate online at www.nichemagazine.co.uk

go the extra mile.

SPECI

Tickets are priced at £55 per person or tables of 10 at £500.00

Ticket prices include entry on the evening, an arrival drink, a 3 course gala dinner with wine and soft drinks on the table, the awards ceremony and access to the casino where all money raised will be donated to Soft Touch Arts and #Heart4Hendrix (Heart Link, Glenfield Hospital) as well as an exquisite evening of entertainment and celebrations.

NICHE 113

Should you be feeling the desire to move rather than improve Chrysalis can help with that. Home Staging by Chrysalis presents your home for sale in the best possible light. Before putting your house on the market Chrysalis will come and professionally stage your property helping you sell your home more quickly and for as high a price as possible.

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

www.chrysalishomestaging.com

Helen Sage has won the 2014 Jeanette Lewis FAB Award, the annual prize for Hinckley & Rugby Building Society’s most oustanding member of staff. Helen, customer assistant at the Society’s branch in Broughton Astley, received the award from chief executive Chris White at a gathering of Hinckley & Rugby’s staff.

Helen wins Hinckley & Rugby’s annual staff award

Chris applauded Helen’s coolness under fire and her unflagging commitment to exceptional customer service: “Her manager describes her as a ‘pillar of the community’ and her colleagues praise her for the help she gives them.” Helen has been nominated several times during 2014 for the Society’s monthly FAB staff awards, with the nominees forming the shortlist for the Jeanette Lewis trophy, first awarded in 2012 in memory of a much missed former colleague. At the annual staff gathering in Hinckley, Chris White outlined the Society’s progress during 2014 and looked forward to a busy 2015 with many opportunities and challenges. He told staff: “The Society would be unable to achieve all this without you. We are constantly thankful for the hard work, commitment and flexibility that our team of staff demonstrate day after day.” A top 25 building society, Hinckley & Rugby has total assets of more than £550 million and over 60,000 savers. In addition, it has over 7,000 borrowers who are also benefiting from the Society’s success. The Society is committed to providing an extensive range of competitive savings accounts and mortgage schemes and to providing the highest standards of customer service. With 10 branches and 4 agencies, Hinckley & Rugby is not only represented in some of the towns and cities of the East and West Midlands, but it is also strongly committed to having outlets in smaller village communities, where it is often the only financial services provider for miles around.

www.hrbs.co.uk

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Save 3%-7% on your shopping - with the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most generous CashBack Card! Many members receive CashBack equivalent to 25% of their monthly household bills.

CASHBACK EVERY MONTH!

and many more!

Ask for details today! David Goadby

07736 146400

david.goadby@goadby.co.uk www.save-earnmoney.co.uk

Home Phone

Broadband

Mobile

Gas

Electricity

NICHE 115

If you've run out of ideas for solving a complex, intractable problem, try this exercise, drawn from the Appreciative Inquiry approach. It works by finding what’s already working well and building on it, rather than trying to analyse the causes of problems.

Stop Analysing Problems And Start Inquiring Into Solutions!

1. Get solution-focused! Decide what you want instead of the problem, and turn it into a question by adding "How do we...?" So the problem statement "Our team is dysfunctional" might become "How do we work together better as a team?" 2. Find examples of when things were working better. Ask yourself "When have I experienced good team working?" Relive that experience so you can remember what it felt like. 3. Ask yourself "What's important to me about this experience?" This helps you reconnect with your motivation. 4. Identify the factors that made that good experience possible. If you can put these conditions back into place, you increase the possibility of success. 5. Finally, if you were granted three wishes for this situation, what would they be? And what could you do to make those wishes start coming true? What you are doing with this process is to psychologically prime your mind to generate new ideas and new possibilities. Shifting your focus from the problem to desired solutions makes it easier to come up with creative ways to get there. Andy Smith is the Training Director of Coaching Leaders Ltd, training and coaching business leaders in the Midlands and worldwide. www.coachingleaders.co.uk Twitter: @practicaleq Email: andy@coachingleaders.co.uk When organising an event, conference or general meeting there are many considerations to take into account; although event planning can seem a daunting task there are some key pointers which can direct you to organising and delivering the perfect event for your business and its attendees. Corporate events are the ideal platform for a business to build enduring relationships with their clients and employees, motivate and reward the team and communicate key messages.

Doing business is a pleasure at St Martin’s House

The key factor when devising your perfect event is the objective (no matter how fun or functional), whatever the size or audience, and to deliver the perfect combination of work and play getting the venue right for any event is essential. Choosing your venue: A vital element, which is surprisingly overlooked, is the accessibility of your venue. Although there are some beautiful rural retreats to choose from do consider your guests; where they are travelling from, transport links, parking, and accommodation. A remote location although scenic may deter people from attending. Consider what you intend on providing at the event; is this a conference with speakers? Will there be entertainment or catering? Not every location will fulfil every requirement so make sure you pick somewhere which can provide the right facilities to support your event. St Martin’s Conference Centre based in the heart of Leicester’s historic quarter, an exquisitely renovated Victorian Grammar School, provides the ideal fusion of period features blended with contemporary styling to cater for any corporate event. With award winning catering from Hotel Maiyango available to complement your meeting or event, St Martin’s Conference Centre is one of our preferred venues to offer professional, surprisingly affordable and productive conferencing with character. To find out more about the rooms and services available visit www.stmartinshouse.com and arrange a visit for your next event. Over the years we have noticed that for many of our clients Q4 is a time of client attrition – maybe they need to save up for Xmas? – And the New Year is a peak time for kicking off projects. So aside from the usual personal resolutions to eat less, get fit, spend wisely, it looks as if business owners are no different in viewing the New Year as a time to plan and action things. So what are your business resolutions for 2015?

Could you start the New Year with one Resolution Completed?

Here are a few suggestions for things you could kick off really quickly with minimal hassle, setting yourself up for a great 2015: • Write a more detailed vision for your business and share it with staff • Keep a better eye on existing or up-and-coming competitors – we can help from just £95pa • Improve your visibility in social media – there are several to choose from that are easier • Save money on your website by commissioning an independent website audit • Increase profitability by stopping staff blogging or tweeting too much • Improve your Google footprint – on average our clients improve by over 2% every month Whilst it takes sustained effort to grow a business the first step can often be surprisingly easy and inexpensive to take, our Seriously Helpful Team can work with you to kick off your first New Year’s resolution in January. We work to fixed budgets with no nasty small print so you always have confidence you aren’t over committing yourself. PS….and did you know that just by dominating Google alone you can become market leader in any industry?.....why wait to enjoy even a proportion of that kind of success? Stuart @ the Seriously Helpful Online Marketing T: 01604 647769 E : newyearsresolution@seriouslyhelpful.co.uk

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JOIN TODAY AND SAY YES TO

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

Join in the warehouse or online: www.costco.co.uk/membership The annual membership fee for Standard Trade Membership is £20 (plus VAT). Executive Trade Membership is an additional £30 (plus VAT) upgrade fee a year. Each membership includes a complimentary card for your spouse or domestic partner.

FREE GIFT! COSTCO LEICESTER ONLY. VALID UNTIL 30/04/2015

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

Costco Leicester Westmoreland Ave, Thurmaston Leicester Leicestershire LE4 8PH

T: 0116 269 0730

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

JN7967

NICHE 117

Bringing Events to Life We specialise in the planning, production and management of creative, tailor-made business events from start to finish.

Save time, money and your reputation and gain everything positive for your business in the process! Eva Dalgety is a social media and marketing expert; with her advice and assistance she can help you to increase your online presence tenfold and ensure that you are getting the best possible results from it. All this of course can only mean great things for your business.

Hi 2 Events has great contacts in the Algarve and Italy for providing toured 3 day breaks in Italy in the Lake Garda area on a social level. With a great deal of knowledge of the area Elaine is the perfect guide and provides luxurious travel, accommodation and experiences. Working closely with both customers and suppliers, our team delivers creative, tailor-made solutions from start to finish.

With a vast amount of experience behind her, Eva is in the ideal position to help you and your business thrive.

“I offer a completely bespoke service”

Tel: 0116 240 2330

Email: info@hi2events.co.uk

Hi 2 Events, Fleckney, Leicestershire, LE8 8UH

w w w. h i2e v e n ts .c o .u k

Discover more at www.evadalgety.com or call 07572847543.

A Fresh Approach

Personal injury specialists with your

health and financial interests at heart.

CREATING OPPORTUNITY : CHANGING LIVES We’re an award winning Leicester charity that has been supporting vulnerable and disadvantaged children for 28 years. We use arts, media and music to build skills, confidence and create opportunities which lead to a more positive future

In March 2014 we’re opening Leicester’s First Youth Arts & Heritage Centre at 50 New Walk We’re looking for businesses and individuals that would like to get involved with our new centre and support our fundraising challenges in 2015

*Help us make a difference to young lives*

Get in touch Call us

0121 631 5355

tony.hannington@limepersonalinjury.co.uk

Email us 118

www.limepersonalinjury.co.uk

To find out more and get involved contact Christina Wigmore chris@soft-touch.org.uk 0116 2702706

www.soft-touch.org.uk/creatingopporunity

Bringing business people together The most important resource for any business is people; whether it is employees or customers, without people no business will succeed. But a business does not build people, the people build the business and it is a fundamental fact that businesses across the world recognise and increasingly celebrate. “Remember the difference between a boss and a leader: a boss says “Go!” a leader says “Let’s go!”. E.M Kelly Corporate events or team building events are the perfect opportunity to deliver key messages and goals as well as to thank and motivate those who make them achievable. With this in mind there is no better way to communicate to a large audience then by getting everyone together in one place, either for business or pleasure, and we have found some great ideas for how you can inspire your business growth in 2015. From conferencing and awards through to paintballing; the way you choose to showcase your business to clients and employees is vital.

Take time to consider your audience and your objectives and then get some exceptional professionals to help you deliver the perfect event. Provide the perfect feast to delight your guests from The Dimblebee Catering Company, who can cater for anywhere between 15-300 guests with beautiful homemade authentic English dishes, whether you want intimate or extravagant, The Dimblebee Catering Company will guarantee satisfied guests; with customers ranging from Aston Martin to the Red Bull F1 team they are undoubtedly a real gem of Leicestershire.

For the ultimate day of work and play for your business and your people you could try a combination of fun fuelled entertainment following by a relaxing, delicious dinner – the options are endless, and dependent on the venue and activities you choose there will be something suitable for any budget or purpose right on your doorstep. “Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success”.

If you are looking for something more exhilarating for your event, we recommend the team at Stretton Circuit for some high speed team building on their go-karting track or some commando-style cooperation with their paintballing arena, set in Stretton woods. Guaranteed to get your team energised and working together as well as nurturing that all important competitive spirit!

We are delighted to announce that our fleet of senior karts for 2014 is a return to the much loved prokart and are our fastest karts yet.

Corporate clients or larger groups are very well catered for at Stretton Circuit with a wide variety of Grand Prix or Team Endurance formats available. We offer a unique venue to host your event totally flexible in our approach we can tailor make the day to accommodate your business function. Fully licensed bar and catering are available. A great choice for all your staff events, to boost staff producivity and team spirit! Based in the Midlands only 10 minutes from J21 of the M1

For group bookings over 12 people quote “Niche” and receive a free organiser place. Booking and General Enquiries call 0116 2592900 Email info@strettoncircuit.co.uk www.strettoncircuit.co.uk Stretton Circuit, Gartree Road, Great Stretton, Leicester LE2 2FG

NICHE 119

We love Leicester It’s been a busy end to 2014 and we’ve been proud to be part of and support the events and awards taking place across Leicestershire celebrating the diversity and entrepreneurialism our region has to offer.

Business in Leicester has always been a passion of ours at Niche Magazine and to get involved in the Leicester for Business Award’s second year was an honour; proudly sponsoring the New Business of the Year Award.

The festivities started early for some amazing businesses in November with both the Leicester for Business and Leicester and Leicestershire Tourism Awards.

Taking place at the Y Theatre, the Leicester for Business Awards are designed to recognise and celebrate the achievements of both startup and existing businesses by showcasing Leicester’s entrepreneurial talent across seven award categories including The Social Enterprise Award and The Innovation Award. If ever anyone needed a reason to consider doing business in Leicester these awards and both the winners and nominees provided just the inspiration to get involved in keeping Leicestershire great.

The Tourism awards saw companies large and small being recognised for all they do to enhance the Leicestershire tourism experience and for attracting visitors from far and wide into Leicester to see for themselves just what an amazing city we boast. The Curve Theatre and Embrace Arts were amongst the proud winners on the night and we hold our hats off to them both for ensuring our local talent had an audience and opportunity throughout 2014, and for providing us with some amazing entertainment along the way!

To start the Christmas countdown we were also so excited for Small Business Saturday this year, the small business owners in Leicester have really proven something to shout about and

Leicester For Business Winners and Nominees

The Social Enterprise Award Sponsored By Nifty Thinking Youth Education Project - Temple Learning Center - Saffron AcresSaffron Lane Neighbourhood Council - Iliffe Arts - Castle Park Solicitors - Community Interest Company - Smarti Paints Women's Start Up Of The Year Award Sponsored By Women In Business Network Pop Up Nurseries - North - Fox & Co - Advantage Law Limited - City Laser & Skin Clinic - The Dimblebee Catering Company Ltd - CMD FITNESS - Eagle Care Alternatives Ltd New Business Of The Year Award Sponsored By Niche Magazine Pop Up Nurseries - North - Fox & Co - Cotton Ink - Creative Cat FX Family Care Agency - Spaceshare Ltd - The Dimblebee Catering Company Ltd - Eagle Care Alternatives Ltd The Existing Business For Potential Growth Sponsored By Pro Active Resolutions Cocoa Amore Limited - City Laser & Skin Clinic - Buzz Web Design Iridescence - Cotton Ink - Access 2 View - Advantage Law Limited Family Care Agency - The Dimblebee Catering Company Ltd The Innovation Award Sponsored By Incubate Leicester Access 2 View - Spaceshare Limited - Seed Creativity Creative Cat FX - The Dimblebee Catering Company Ltd Sustainable Business Award sponsored by Business in the Community Earth Buds - Saffron Acres - Cocoa Amore Limited Saffron Lane - Neighbourhood Council

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we are honoured we’ve had the opportunity to work with some truly inspirational people and businesses as a result. #ThinkBigShopSmall was the catchphrase of the day and both businesses and consumers all over the UK got involved in doing just that! 2014’s Small Business Saturday saw 16.5 million people shopping in small independent businesses on the day, representing a 20% increase in footfall on last year or 2.7 million more shoppers at one of the busiest times of the year! Almost two thirds of UK consumers were aware of the day – a 33% increase on last year. Of those, just over half shopped at a local, independently owned business on 6 December! Whatever 2015 may bring we are certain it will be more innovation from the businesses of Leicester enabling our city to continue to get richer, culturally and profitably, and we cannot wait to be a part of it!

AT LEICESTER AND LEICESTERSHIRE EXCELLENCE IN TOURISM AWARDS 2014 Winners and Finalists Access For All – Winner: Embrace Arts, Finalist: Snibston Discovery Museum Business Tourism – Winner: National Space Centre, Finalists: College Court and Hinckley Island, Highly Commended: Leicester Conferences Guest Accommodation – Winner: Badger’s Mount, Finalist: Knaptoft House Farm & The Greenway Large Visitor Attraction – Winner: Curve, Finalists: Bradgate Park and Conkers, Highly Commended: National Space Centre Hotel of the Year – Winner: Burleigh Court, Finalists: Best Western Ullesthorpe Court, College Court and Hinckley Island, Highly Commended: Hotel Maiyango Self Catering Holiday Provider – Winner: The Dandelion Hideaway, Finalists: Foxton Locks Lodges and Upper Rectory Farm Cottages Small Visitor Attraction – Winner: Bosworth Battlefield, Finalists: Foxton Museum and Melton Theatre, Highly Commended: Charnwood Museum Taste of England – Winner: Hotel Maiyango, Finalists: Mem Saab and White Peacock, Highly Commended: City Rooms and 34 Windsor Street Tourism Experience – Winner: Dave’s Leicester Comedy Festival, Highly Commended: Cocoa Amore Tourism Pub – Winners: The Exchange and Foxton Locks Inn, Highly Commended: The Griffin Inn

Eagle Care Alternatives Ltd Receive the care you deserve It can be distressing thinking about having to leave your home to go into a care home because you can no longer look after yourself, or worrying about a loved one who is struggling to care for themselves. If you find yourself in either of these situations then you will no doubt have some difficult decisions ahead. Eagle Care Alternatives Ltd can take the stress out of those choices as they specialise in home care for the elderly, people with physical disabilities, learning disabilities, end of life care, and mental health needs, allowing them to be cared for in the comfort and security of their own home.

with all involved parties to help improve and protect their lives. We will respect the dignity and individuality of all our service users and members of staff and value their knowledge, skills and experience. “We will provide opportunity for open debate and discussion, while upholding the principle of confidentiality for all customers and staff. We all need to have an equal chance according to our individuality to live free from fear, discrimination and prejudice in a just and equal society where diversity is valued, so discrimination, harassment, intimidation verbal and physical abuse will never be tolerated at Eagle Care Alternatives Ltd.”

Ltd said: “Our purpose is to promote independence, improve health and emotional well-being, improve quality of life, make a positive contribution, increase choices and control and also, to support all of our service users to maintain personal dignity and respect. Where there are children involved, we will work

known as the preferred care provider to the community and they are well on their way after Ruth was shortlisted at The Leicester for Business Awards in the categories of Women’s

The company also values their clients’ cultural and religious beliefs while building their care

Ruth Olugbenga from Eagle Care Alternatives

Eagle Care Alternatives Ltd wants to become

around you or your relatives. All of their carers are well trained, carefully vetted and assessed, with enhanced DBS checks to ensure that their high standards are always maintained. They ensure that their working environment is healthy, safe and

Start Up of the Year Award and New Business of the year 2014. Their clients enjoy being cared for in a safe, friendly and trustworthy environment and Ruth has received great feedback on her service. To find out more about Eagle Care Alternatives Ltd please contact them by calling 0116 2552398 or emailing ecal69@yahoo.com

secure and all of their practices meet current statutory requirements.

Eagle Care Alternatives Ltd Professional Carer Services Building Care Around You! Eagle Care Alternatives Ltd specializes in home care for the elderly, people with physical disabilities, learning disabilities, mental health need. We win to build your care around you, your friends and relatives with the finest care in activities of daily living.

www.eaglecarealternativesltd.co.uk +44116 2552398 ecal69@yahoo.com 1 The Crescent King Street Leicester LE1 6RX NICHE 121

A CURVE PRODUCTION

BOOK & LYRICS

JAKE BRUNGER MUSIC & LYRICS PIPPA CLEARY DIRECTED BY LUKE SHEPPARD SAT 7 MAR - SAT 4 APR Partner

Curve_Adrian Mole_Niche Magazine_01.indd 1

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Supporter

Associate

06/01/2015 09:58

Inspiring arts empowering people Iliffe Arts is a social enterprise business, based in Leicester, providing a tailor-made solution to support the needs of underachieving children, young people and vulnerable adults. Their specialist Expressive Arts programmes help build confidence and self-belief and help empower people to reach their full potential. Kat Iliffe, who founded the business, said: “Iliffe Arts service aims to support particular vulnerable groups of people in having fun, learning valuable life and social skills and provides opportunities for peer support and friendship. Getting involved in the arts helps you unleash your inner creativity to boost your confidence and life enjoyment, learning new ways to communicate and express yourself.” Iliffe Arts have qualified teachers with over 15 year’s experience in teaching all ages and abilities within main stream, special education, community education, and recreation. They have supported people with varied Special Educational Needs (SEND), Disabilities and Social Emotional Behavioural Difficulties (SEBD), and have also worked with people that are new to speaking English (EAL). The team delivers a fun, creative service within all areas of the expressive arts, including 3D sculpture, body painting, street dance fused with contemporary dance, drumming, performance poetry and much more. Iliffe Arts latest programme specialises in helping young people who are Looked After in care, Fostered or Adopted (The LAFA Project.) Kat has personal experience of the care system as she is part of a trans-racially adopted family. Kat said: “By taking part in one of Iliffe arts looked after, fostered or adopted courses or workshops, young people will learn to communicate creatively, in a multi-sensory way through artistic expression. They will share experiences with other LAFA young people and learn to believe in their uniqueness and be proud of who they are.” Iliffe Arts other areas of specialism include supporting people with dyslexia, Afro-Caribbean and mixed race young people, visually impaired people, people with experience of mental ill health and supporting people with physical disability via swimming and water safety. Iliffe Arts were recently nominated for The Social Enterprise Award at The Leicester for Business Awards. To find out more please visit www.iliffearts.com

“Iliffe Arts offer a specialist service in physical expression, visual and performing arts that are fun, uplifting, will boost self esteem and empower people to achieve their full potential.” Iliffe Arts is a Social Enterprise Business based in Leicester. We have qualified and experienced teachers with over 15 years experience teaching all ages and abilities, within main stream, special, community education and recreation.

Email: info@iliffearts.com

Call: 07860165856

@IliffeArts

www.iliffearts.com NICHE 123

Purfect animation from Creative Cat Having been drawing since the age of four and inheriting her mother’s affinity for art history, it was inevitable that Lucy Crewe would end up doing something creative. Her love of nature and movies led her into making animated movies at a young age and, after graduating from De Montfort University with an MA in Design Innovation, she developed her character animation company called Creative Cat FX. Not all of us are blessed with artistic talent so Lucy can bring to life people’s ideas through character animation, motion graphics, sequential art, and editorial art. Lucy sets herself apart from other artists by finding playful ways to overcome problems and clients love her flexible and creative approach. She loves coming up with design solutions, with her specialty characters being cats, dinosaurs and characters from classic TV shows and movies. Creative Cat FX has been offering services since January 2013 and Lucy began networking online and offline to build up her client base. She has worked for a range of local businesses, agencies and not-for-profit organisations to make magical animations. So far she has worked with Some Bright Spark, Embrace Arts, Leicester City Council, LOROS and Tate. Lucy’s work is becoming that recognised that she has recently been nominated in the category of New Business of the Year in The Leicester for Business Awards. Lucy said: “People with incredible artistic skills share their talent with the world and have made lucrative careers, thanks to what they can do with new media. It seemed natural to pursue my passions for visual storytelling in such a way. I started out drawing at a very young age and I used to do editing tricks with an old VCR.” Her passion has stayed with her and developed over the years and Lucy gets a real enjoyment from creating new animated pieces. “Seeing the pictures move smoothly and in sync is magical,” said Lucy. “Frame-by-frame animation is especially rewarding. I also get a kick out of making connections and new ideas that usually spring from places or situations you'd least expect. An animation career requires a balance of staying indoors and going outside. In my second year I've taken more risks, pushed whimsy and made some breakthroughs.” To find out more about Lucy’s work, or to commission a job, please visit www.creativecatfx.co.uk

Harborough Market Over 60 stalls offering great products, fresh produce, eat-in and takeaway food all at great prices

Including an antiques/vintage market on a Wednesday & Sunday and a craft market on Thursday

Harborough Market is a wonderful place to come for all your shopping. There is a great atmosphere, a fabulous food hall, cafes, brilliant stalls, and most importantly knowledgeable and expert traders who can advise you on your purchases.

Harborough Market is open 8am to 5pm Tuesday to Saturday and 9am to 3pm for the popular antiques market on Sunday.

www.harboroughmarket.co.uk Harborough Market

@HarbMarket

Tel 01858 465 206 for enquiries

NICHE NICHE 125 11

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Disney on Ice

All your favourite ! characters Mini-Mees will provide you with a party to remember for your little ones! With a wide range of party packages and toddler events to choose from, you will be spoilt for choice!!

F RO Z EN Party Visit a, from Ann a! Olaf & Els

www.minimeesleicester.co.uk minimeespartiees@hotmail.co.uk

07935 964522

Our kids parties in Leicester are fun, friendly, and entertaining for all with a sparkle of magic. You can choose from a range of kids party shop packages for toddlers and juniors, princess and super hero parties and even pamper parties, and get a visit from their favourite characters!

www.minimeesleicester.co.uk minimeespartiees@hotmail.co.uk

07935 964522

DISNEY ON ICE CELEBRATES 100 YEARS OF MAGIC Featuring More Than 60 Disney Characters Including the Stars of Disney/Pixar’s Finding Nemo Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and their friends from Disney’s Mulan, The Lion King and Pinocchio, and Disney/Pixar’s Finding Nemo, The Incredibles and Toy Story, took to the ice for a grand celebration in Disney On Ice celebrates 100 Years of Magic. Produced by Feld Entertainment, this fanfare production featured more than 60 unforgettable Disney stars that span the decades, a sing-along score of award-winning Disney music, stunning choreography, elaborate sets and beautiful costumes. We went along for some good ol’ fashioned Disney fun! “With our little Disney Princess of our own in tow we headed off to watch the opening night of Disney on Ice Celebrating 100 Years at Birmingham Nia this past October. She was excited beyond belief (and control!) and we were thrilled as parents to watch her get so excited at the prospect of seeing so many of her favourite Disney characters come to life in front of her very eyes! As we settled into our seats she was already marvelling at the sight of the quintessential castle backdrop and the sea of audience donning flashing Minnie and Mickey Mouse ears. With her new Minnie soft toy tucked under her arm she gasped as the lights went down and the characters skated onto the ice. The marvel didn’t stop; throughout the whole thing she was delighted as her classic favourites, Belle, Jasmine and Ariel graced the centre stage and giggled through highly entertaining dialogue from characters from Toy Story and The Incredibles. A spectacular display of wonderful dancing and singing from so many favourites was a delight for us parents too and the joy we got from seeing our daughter’s joy was priceless!” Emily Kirton, Cross Productions Writer.

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Education

Highlights Our Ladyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Convent School

Education that doesn’t fit the mould – be bold, be brilliant

Memories of my school years make me feel

and students alike.

to be Wise” is most befitting. Providing these

but because of the difference in education

Exemplary performance needs to be capitalised

complement their development, these students

contemplative nostalgia clouding my outlook

Cookery, Physics to Art; after all we need all

wistful. Not because I am old (of course),

versus the 1980’s-90’s; it may be a touch of

but I genuinely feel that education has become much more holistic in its approach and

those leading the way have recognised and addressed that one size does not fit all.

For many of us school was all about achieving

exam results in academic subjects; if you didn’t perform well in your Chemistry or Algebra then you had failed – as simple as that. Subject

choices were limited and biased towards the

on across all subject fields from Maths to

of these skills in the wider world so we need to

recognise those individuals early and help them

unsuitable, stories such as that of Hillingdon

institutions, parents and children have a better chance of finding the right environment and

curriculum to enable them to fulfil their potential and enjoy their schooldays.

and Sir Frank Whittle School have designed

board as well as recognising that one teaching method is not suitable for every child. It’s an

exciting step in the right direction for educators

adulthood.

on needs or skills, to support the state funded

student ideal. What I am so happy to see is

are diversifying and nurturing talents across the

them for their next steps and ultimately

Not forgetting the development of

and specialist schools, targeted dependent

Whether it be a BTEC in Retail & Logistics or A

that schools and colleges across the country

are receiving a whole life education preparing

all we can. With the introduction of academies

academics and other talented individuals

were somewhat overlooked if they didn’t fit this

choices and the supportive environment to

Level Maths, the team at the Lutterworth College innovative programs to offer students the choice

schoolchildren for who mainstream schools are Manor, Baston School or Woodside Lodge

offering specialist education from experts able to tailor lessons to each and every student;

this sort of one on one professional, personal teaching was unheard of in our education system and any student with a special

educational need was sat in a corner with a support assistant, hardly inspirational!

of secondary education routes best suited to

So I may be a geek (I always have been), but

curriculum and impressive extra-curricular

hope the innovation long continues.

their abilities and ambitions; with an extensive activities their motto of “Sapere Aude” or “Dare

the education of today really inspires me and I

A school with a difference Founded by the inspirational mum, Anna Kennedy OBE, Hillingdon Manor School is part of Hillcrest Care and provides specialist schooling for children on the autistic spectrum between three and a half and nineteen years of age. After being turned down from 26 special needs schools when searching for a school suitable for her own two sons, Anna made the lifechanging commitment to provide an educational environment which was suited to those on the autism spectrum, providing support and development for children and their families. She re-mortgaged her own home and converted a derelict building into Hillingdon Manor School. Split across three sites, each purposely converted to enable students to benefit from lessons tailored to the individual needs of each child; with a strong emphasis on visual learning and encouraging each student to fulfil their full potential.

“The quality of the curriculum is good, including provision in Early Years Foundation Stage, which leads to good outcomes” Ofsted

Now catering to over 170 pupils in primary and secondary education, Hillingdon has been a haven for so many parents fighting to find the right setting and curriculum for their children; the academic programme is complimented by speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, cognitive and behavioural therapy as well as drama and music therapies.

“At long last, having struggled so hard for so long in the wrong setting for a child like him he is able to engage effectively with his education, in a setting he can understand, and where he is understood.” Parent “Hillingdon Manor School is an oasis in a desert of educational provision. Its teaching staff and specialist facilities make a real difference to youngsters diagnosed with an autism spectrum condition and maximise the potential of every pupil.” Esther Rantzen CBE

educational facility for those with autism in Europe helping thousands of youngsters to get a safe, structured and highly effective education, meaning that they can go on to lead productive and rewarding lives. The proof is in the pudding with Anna’s own sons and the inspirations behind Hillingdon Manor fulfilling their own dreams, with her eldest starting (and loving) his new job this year and a current final year pupil who spoke about his time at Hillingdon Manor at the Anniversary event describing how when he first arrived he struggled with English only to achieve a GCSE A* grade in recent exams!

“Our son has become a confident and wellrounded person largely thanks to Hillingdon Manor and for this we are extremely grateful.” Parent.

www.hillingdonmanorschool.org.uk

(Hillingdon Manor’s Patron)

02392 492165 (Head Office)

Recently celebrating its 15th Anniversary, Hillingdon Manor has proven an indisputable success; now boasting the largest specialist

enquiries@hillingdonmanorschool.org.uk

NICHE 129

“My name is Phil, a student at Sir Frank Whittle Studio School. I want to be a high performance engineer and every week at school, I build racing cars”

PLACES LIMITED, APPLY NOW

Phil 130

The Sir Frank Whittle Studio School opened its doors in September 2014 and is already celebrating the success of its pioneering approach to education with 100% its students engaged in high quality work placements. The brand new school has a focus on narrowing the gap between a traditional academic curriculum and the skills young people need to succeed in the world of work. A critical part of the Studio School model is to use real workplace skills that is also reflected in the way the Studio School Curriculum is taught. Paul Hostead, Head of the Sir Frank Whittle Studio School remarked “For a long time industry have been saying that students have qualifications but no knowledge of how to

High Quality Work Placements

apply these in the real world. At the Sir Frank Whittle Studio School students study for highly valued qualifications but also undertake 2 days work at 16+ and 1 day aged 14+. This gives students the opportunity to “make their learning matter”, taking

Potential for paid Work Placements at 6th Form

what they have learnt in the classroom and applying their knowledge and skills in the real world” Sir Frank Whittle Studio School student, Phil Lee, aged 17 is currently studying Engineering at the school. Phil explained

Highly valued GCSE, A Level and BTEC Qualifications

“The school suits me because it is small and the teaching feels personal to me as an individual. It gives me everything that I want as it allows me to study engineering” Phil hopes to work in the motorsport industry when he leaves

WHERE LEARNING MATTERS

school and is currently engaged in a work placement in that industry for 2 days every week at AH Mechanical who build Formulae Vee Race Cars. Phil added “working in the motorsport industry while I am at school is a brilliant way for me to experience what its really like to be at work and learn new skills at the same time”

enquires@sirfrankwhittestudioschool.com

The Sir Frank Whittle Studio School offers specialisms in Business, Engineering and Sport, combining highly valued GCSE’s alongside BTEC qualifications at Key Stage 4 and BTEC and A-Levels at 6th Form. Places are available for students aged between 14-19 and although spaces are filling up fast, it’s not too late to apply. Anyone interested to find out more should visit www.sirfrankwhittlestudioschool.com, telephone 01455

205112 or email enquiries@sirfrankwhittlestudioschool.com

NICHE 131

Alternative education with extraordinary results It’s a well know saying that “One size fits all” but when it comes to education, curriculum and methods, that is just not the case.

Establishments offering alternatives to the mainstream curriculum, whether it is skills based learning through to SEN, are bucking the trend and seeing some amazing achievements as a result. We’ve long been advocates of the schools founded by Anna Kennedy OBE in answer to her own frustration at the lack of provision for SEN in mainstream schools. With the remarkable success of Hillingdon Manor and the demand from parents for this kind of specialist education for their children, Baston House and North West London College were opened respectively, each now enjoying their own share of success stories. “Our curriculum delivery is supported by a range of prominent visual strategies, including highly structured work-systems; predictable changes and phase timings and engaging and appealing learning environments. Baston House uses the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) as it is a comprehensive, thematic, creative curriculum with a clear process of learning and with specific learning goals for every subject, for international mindedness and for personal learning.”

celebrating the success of its pioneering approach to education with 100% of all of its students engaged in high quality work placements. The Sir Frank Whittle Studio School offers specialisms in Business, Engineering and Sport, combining highly valued GCSE’s alongside BTEC qualifications. The difference with the skill based curriculum allows learners to use their new found skills as they learn and make a direct correlation between the classroom and the workplace. “Students study for highly valued qualifications but also undertake 2 days’ work at 16+ and 1 day aged 14+. This gives students the opportunity to “make their learning matter”, taking what they have learnt in the classroom and applying their knowledge and skills in the real world” Head Teacher, Paul Hostead explained.

Sir Frank Whittle Studio School student, Phil Lee, aged 17 is currently studying Engineering at the school. Phil explained “The school suits me because it is small and the teaching feels personal to me as an individual. It gives me The proof is in the pudding with Anna’s own sons everything that I want as it allows me to study and the inspirations behind Hillingdon Manor engineering” fulfilling their own dreams and the alumni of Hillingdon achieving GCSE A* grades in recent When it comes to getting the best education for exams! your child(ren) there are so many options out there which many parents are perhaps not aware “Our son has become a confident and wellof if they don’t fall into the local councils remit, so rounded person largely thanks to Hillingdon don’t feel pressured into choosing your child’s Manor and for this we are extremely grateful.” school on proximity alone. There is an educator Parent to match any learner, and they may be closer Alternatives are not limited just to SEN though; than you think! The Sir Frank Whittle Studio School opened its doors in September 2014 and is already

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Martin Dalby ...The UK’s most prolific composer

From an early age Martin Dalby showed enthusiasm and prowess in the art of music; born north of the border in 1942 he successfully secured a Foundation Scholarship with London’s Royal College of Music in 1960 and the career of one of Britain’s most esteemed musicians was launched. On completion of his studies Martin spent 2 years with an Italian Chamber Orchestra where upon his return his growing reputation and skills led to him embarking on a career with the BBC which would span nearly 30 years. Starting as a music producer for the BBC’s popular Music Programme (later to become BBC Radio 3), Martin finally retired from the BBC in 1993 after holding influential positions such as Head of Music Scotland and developing the public profile of the BBC Scottish Symphony as well as producing the Sony Gold Award winning radio show ‘Scotland’s Music’. By no means was Martin’s retirement from the BBC an indication of his imminent departure from music; Martin wanted to focus on composing full time and received commissions from across the UK including the BBC Promenade Concerts, festivals and orchestras; bringing his music to life in prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall and The Royal Albert Hall. Martin has composed for a diverse range of outlets from churches to television including orchestras, choruses, brass and wind pieces. “I consider myself very privileged to have been given the opportunity to have 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” Martin explained

His work has received International acclaim with his compositions featuring on the stages of Warsaw Autumn and London’s infamous Proms; but despite his global reach, Martin has always retained a profound passion for his roots in Scotland, composing The White Maa

much loved Labrador, Tessa.

“Writing this work was the natural way for me to honour the animals that have meant so much to me in my life. It’s a real

for the Scottish Chamber Orchestra as well as

expression of myself in that way.”

music to celebrate 200 years of Union Street

Martin told us.

in Aberdeen and the 500th Anniversary of Aberdeen University.

His diversity and talent are what keep Martin Dalby at the top of his game and still a much

Keen to support and encourage fellow

sought after and respected composer,

composers and aspiring musicians, Martin

producer and player across the world. Despite

has been fundamental in helping many others

his clear devotion to music Martin still has

achieve their musical aspirations becoming a

energy to pursue his secondary loves including

Founding Director of both the British Academy

hill walking, railway and bird watching and

of Composers and Songwriters and British

literature, as well as the odd flight with his

Music Rights, as well as playing a pivotal

private pilot’s license; however, his enthusiasm

role in several other organisations designed

for music cannot be quashed and he continues

to promote and support musicians and

to compose a variety of masterpieces, as well

composers.

as offering personal compositions on request so you can hold your very own piece of musical

Martin’s ingenuity is an admirable trait and he

history from Martin Dalby.

seems to have the ability to turn his hand to any musical mission, recently turning his attention to

To find out more about his compositions or to

the composition of vocal music for both children

discuss a personal composition visit

and adults in memory of his family dogs,

www.impulse-music/dalby

including a new set of songs dedicated to a

NICHE 133

Martin Dalby ...The UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most prolific composer

Martin Dalby - Reviews With my previously limited exposure to classical music, I will admit that I was somewhat apprehensive when tasked with reviewing the work of an established composer for this issue.

Martin Dalby boasts an undeniable talent for both composition and performance,

testament to which is his impressive career spanning almost 50 years and including

compositions for orchestraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s choruses, brass and wind bands, for the Church, for film, radio and television, many songs and song cycles, and chamber music ranging from duos and trios to octets and nonets.

So with some trepidation as to whether a layman such as me would be able to review

and do justice to such a heritage I embarked upon a whirlwind lesson in classical music. Martin sent over 4 CDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s for me to review, 2 compilations and three pieces performed by the Aberdeen Youth Choir and the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra and I set about my education!

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The Martin Dalby Collection – Volume 6 With pieces ranging from 1967 to 1980, my favourite from this compilation had to be

Track 5-‘Song Cycle: The Fiddler’ although the eclectic mix provided on this CD would undoubtedly find something to suit most preferences.

Using a variety of instrumentals from piano, violin and some lovely woodwind on Track 4-‘The Dancer Eduardova’, the music and vocal accompaniments portray a brilliant

mixture of stories and evoke plenty of emotion; actually transcending the need for lyrics, although vocal performances do appear on some of the tracks.

I found a particular admiration for the way a talented composer can incite feelings from serenity to urgency and everything in between from the careful arrangement of musical notes which I perhaps wouldn’t attribute to other musical genres in the same way

The Martin Dalby Collection – Volume 19 And so, feeling inspired to continue with a bit of rousing from the previous collections Track 2-‘Cantigas Del Cancionero’, I moved onto the next compilation which began

with a sombre start, beautifully played by the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, and provided a tranquil parallel to some of the more frenzied pieces on the previous CD.

This was followed by a brilliant track (probably my favourite) ‘A Plain Man’s Hammer’

which made me feel nostalgic, despite my lack of classical memories to call upon, but

it was somehow moving and it intrigued me, making me want to find out more about the story behind this piece and how it would finish.

Close favourites though were the choral arrangements on this compilation. I may be a

novice in choral performance but you cannot help but be mesmerised by these pieces – definitely worth a listen!

I think from my brief introduction to Martin Dalby’s work it is safe to say that I have too many words to describe and do justice to all the tracks and the different experiences

each CD provides to the listener. The beauty of classical music, in my humble opinion, is in its ability to incite such powerful emotional response in the audience whether like

myself, they are more used to listening to Pharrell Williams or whether they be seasoned

symphony goers; this genre of music is an absolute treat for the senses and I for one will be including a touch of classical into my musical repertoire!

To find out more about his compositions visit www.impulse-music/dalby

NICHE 135

The White Maa

The man behind the music by Martin Dalby

The Mary Bean I was reading David Thompson’s The People of the Sea. He told of the cow in the Western Isles that was milking blood. A friend had turned up with a large nut that one finds on the western shores of Ireland, the Outer Hebrides and the Northern Isles. On Friday the bean was placed in a pail of the red-tainted milk. By Monday the cow’s milk was of the purest white. Any vet will immediately spot this as a common case of mastitis. So be it, but let us all wonder at the magic of legend. For this nut is The Mary Bean, a talisman of good fortune.

My “The Mary Bean” was written for the 100th anniversary of the Royal Scottish National Orchestra to wish their future well. In doing so it contains many other suggestions of musical goodwill but they are hidden between them and me.

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Dictators and military potentates who inflict their bombast on the cities which they think they rule over always perplex me. They share an unfortunate habit of thrusting large, straight, ungainly boulevards and avenues across areas with far more character than those which they suppose their honour has encountered. Think of Via della Conciliazione in Rome, bashed through a maze of densely packed, enchanting habitations and alleyways which encompassed the safety of the Basilica of St Peters with the remarkable space of its square and colonnade. Mussolini’s Pact with Pope Pius X1 shattered that sense of space and forced it dribbling disastrously down into the Tiber. It dribbles to this day even though modern traffic hides the fact. Mussolini annoyed the Romans even further with the construction of Viale dei Fori Imperiale slapped right across the Roman Forum to obscure where Julius Caesar was murdered. The authorities try to keep that quiet from the tourists. After all there is another forum nearby. Aberdeen has its straight streets too. I was commissioned to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the construction of Union Street in 1994, a noble thoroughfare but built for better reasons than the conceits of over-ranked military. It came into being with a more modern concept — to relieve the city’s packed habitations and alleyways with, like so many British places, the relics of Danish names, Hardgate, Eastgate and so on. Like most seaside towns Aberdeen is plagued by Herring Gulls. The Aberdonians (and Orcadians) have their own name for them: the White Maa. I chose it as my emblem for the city where I was born. I remember in the early hours of summer days, the birds’ raucous complaints. It’s not the most pleasant cry but it represented the heralding of the new day with its special North-Eastern light, for Union Street is laid out more or less East to West and that is the path the sun follows through the day. The music is a sunrise and like all such moments of hope gives way to an unknown measure of inner darkness. It heralded the days and years, and travails, of my life to come.

Contemplatur Celestium (Version 2)

Mater Salutaris

Few of us these days can consider the universe above us. There is pollution of every sort to shroud it. I am relatively lucky locally “with this wind and with the run of this tide.” Occasionally there are nights and indeed days which allow me sight of sparkling mysteries far beyond my imaginings.

“Dum transisset sabatum” are amongst the warmest opening words that I know. The two words that follow engender that inescapable comfort: “Maria Magdalena.” I fell ages ago to the beauty of the thought of the passing of that Saturday when the bereaved Mary Magdalen came to her beloved’s tomb. How she must have been forsaken to Last June I broke the neck of my right femur. Coincidentally find his body gone. I am totally drawn by her being when I was two and a half, I had slipped in exuberance on Jesus’ girl. hard ice. I broke my right femur in the same place. I lay on the garden path between two Juniper trees for the moment the star-gazer, helpless but enchanted. The goodly-hearted took me to a hospital darkness where parents were not permitted to visit and where outside a war was raging. That memory has endured in all its clarity all my life. (The war was being fought for human rights. Why then were British children deprived of the visits of their parents? Why too were parents deprived of their children for so long? What has such savagery caused to each of us?)

It is now rare to experience such marvels in British climes.

I carry with love the thought that they may have begotten a child. I care nothing for the prudery that spurns such thinking.

“Stabat Mater.” There stands the Mother of Heaven utterly desolate within a supernal tempest, as the scriptures tell us. “Ave Maris Stella.” She stands as The Star of the Sea one day to be Assumed to become the beloved intecessor. She must be patient though. It takes until December 8, 1854 for But cherish them when they reveal their exotic fantasy, their the Church to accede to the clamour of its congregation in message impenetrable to most of us. Here is an enigmatic accepting her Immaculate Conception. beauty, a triumph of a search after heavenly glory. An Irish exile whose memory we love as St Columba helped us in our But this is only partly about some women of our learning. It quest. Let us rejoice in his teaching and all he achieved is about an unhappy period when my colleagues and I had for us. won the salvation of the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra but in all such things the real fighting had just begun.

Contemplatur Celestium is the vision that I ask a simple but beautiful organ in an Inner Hebridean Cathedral, Lismore on Cumbrae, to sing for us.

My girl had gone to Devon for three years to study for the next part of her career. So in my solitude I wrote a tune for her called Sad Tune for Hilary. It had no purpose until St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall offered me a bottle of their local Orkney Highland Park to write a piece for their choir and organ. åClearly it is about the Virgin but shadows of my other two women are there too. The tune is Hilary’s Sad Song yet the spirit behind it all seems, despite myself, to be the benevolent power of Maria Magdalena.

NICHE 137

A slice of 144

Paradise

T h e n e w h e art of Ston e

Located just over the way from the River Trent and with easy transport connections to the M6, the Stone House Hotel offers a perfect stay for anyone visiting the attractions of Staffordshire. A converted country house, the hotel boasts beautiful period features combined with charming traditional ambience which lends itself to an indulgent treat for any traveller or guest. The new jewel in Stone House Hotel’s crown is the welcoming of their new head chef, Kevin Attwood, transforming their restaurant into a haven for any foodie. With a background in entertainment and a track record of transforming restaurants and pubs across the country, Kevin left his own Rosette winning restaurant to take the helm at Stone House. Introducing a culinary range stretching from Thailand in the form of Vegetable Green Curry and a Tian of Prawns and Smoked Salmon, to the Mediterranean with Spinach & Ricotta Ravioli, via a traditional Pork Loin Chop and Banoffee Pie or two for dessert, Kevin brings a fresh and straightforward approach to proceedings, with an emphasis on sharing food thanks to an abundance of seafood platters and mezes.

“We were met with a lovely warm welcome and we were very impressed with the traditional feel of our room. At dinner, we opted for the grill menu and our steaks were cooked to perfection, juicy and tender and perfectly complimented with a stack of homemade chips and onion rings. It looked very rustic when it arrived at the table and the flavours did not disappoint, I could definitely enjoy another! For dessert, I chose the homemade Banoffee Pie & cream which was delicious, and my partner enjoyed the Lemon Panna Cotta with kiwi compote. The service was outstanding and I’d definitely go back!” Cross Productions Designer Rachael told us. With 50 en-suite bedrooms on site, the traditional feel continues with the décor of dark wood and four poster bed, offering a truly luxurious setting for your stay; complimented with the attentive, welcoming staff this hotel offers it’s guests beauty, comfort and great food at really affordable prices. To book your room or find out where to visit for an exquisite afternoon tea go to www.bespokehotels.com/stonehousehotel or call their reservations on 01785 815531 or email reservations.stone@bespokehotels.com.

Monday 16th February – South Coast Explorer – 5 Days From £309 Chatsworth Hotel, Worthing Excursions include: Brighton, Eastbourne, Arundel, Chichester & Portsmouth

Sunday 22nd February – Pretty Pembrokeshire SINGLES – 5 Days From £334

Your Local ‘Door-to-Door’ Coach Holiday Company

Ivy Bush Royal Hotel, Carmarthen Excursions include: Worcester, Saundersfoot, Tenby, Aberystwyth, New Quay, Swansea Bay & Gower Peninsula

Monday 9th March – The Stunning Yorkshire Dales – 5 Days From £369

Holiday Inn, Harrogate Excursions include: Harrogate, Grassington, Wensleydale, Hawes, Ilkley, Skipton, Ripon & York

Wednesday 11th March – Beautiful Cornish Gardens – 6 Days From £459

Rosemundy House, St. Agnes Excursions include: Trebah Gardens, the Eden Project, Cornish Goldsmiths, St. Ives, Truro, Mevagissey & the Lost Gardens of Heligan

We also offer European & Worldwide Holidays by Air, Rail & Cruise – give us Monday 16th March – Discovering Lancashire – 5 Days From £429 Mercure Dunkenhalgh Hotel, Blackburn a call now for your free 2015 brochure! Excursions include: Trentham Craft Village, Southport, Poulton-le-Fylde, Lytham Str. Annes, Laver Holidays Ltd (now part of the Skills Group) 25 Swan Street, Loughborough, LEICS, LE11 5BL

01509 236500 sales@laverholidays.co.uk Also branches in Derby, Nottingham, Beeston & Bulwell. Simply pop in or give us a call for your free brochure/s

Samlesbury Hall, Bowland train journey, Morecambe, Afternoon Tea at The Midland Hotel, The Chocolate House, Boundary Mills, canal cruise & Nantwich

Friday 27th March – Wales on Rails – 4 Days from £339

Royal Goat Hotel, Beddgelert Excursions include: Caernarfon, Isle of Anglesey, Llanberis, Snowdon Mountain Railway, Beddgelert to Porthmadog train journey, Portmeirion Italianate village, Betws-y-Coed & Llangollen

Monday 30th March – Scarborough, Helmsley, Whitby SINGLES – 5 Days From £349 Esplanade Hotel, Scarborough Excursions include: York, Filey, Bilsdale, Guisborough, Bridlington, Eden Camp & Beverley

NICHE 139

Eastham Hall

An award winning retreat, right on our doorsteps Situated within just a few minutes of the classic

or visit with your touring caravan, you can share

Pitches are also available by the night for

British seaside resort of Lytham St Annes you

our lovely rural retreat in a highly sought after

touring caravans, campervans, motorhomes

will find this charming rural retreat offering

location.” Susie Kirkham explained.

and trailer tents & folding campers (as long as

the serenity of its surroundings as well as

it has a chassis). Unfortunately we are not able

the elegance and energy of Lytham just a

“Just returned from a wonderful break at

stone’s throw away making it an ideal holiday

Eastham Hall, the staff were all very friendly and

destination for couples and families alike.

helpful, we were given fantastic directions to the

“An absolute gem of a site; family run and

park, we didn’t need the satnav at all… brilliant!

excellent value. I visited with my wife and 2

Founded over 50 years ago, this delightful

Also they give you a map of supermarkets,

children (aged 7 & 8). We will definitely be

park is still owned and managed by the

Lytham town etc. which came in very helpful!”

back.” Paul, guest

Kirkham family who throughout the years

Joan, guest.

have maintained a perfect getaway for

to accommodate tents.” Susie explained

Eastham Hall and the Kirkham family have

holidaymakers; with fishing, riding and golfing

The park itself boasts an impressive 330 pitches

always endeavoured to maintain a harmony

close by and the wonderful ‘Leafy Lytham’ just a

ranging from overnight pitches to seasonal

with the beautiful British countryside within

mile and a half away you can explore the array

tourers and static holiday homes; with an onsite

which they are sited and their efforts and

of shops, cafes and bars the town has to offer

shop open 7 days a week, laundry facilities,

achievements have received the accolade of

followed by a visit to one of the local award

children’s play area and dedicated dog area

a Gold David Bellamy Conservation Award for

winning beaches. Just 7 miles down the road

as well as playing fields and free Wi-Fi for the

the 4th year running and their continuing help in

and you have the option for a hair-raising day

teenagers all benefiting from an inspiring vista

driving Britain’s green tourism revolution.

at Blackpool Pleasure Beach, or the renowned

from all angles there is really no need to leave

Blackpool Illuminations, after which you can

the park to enjoy a memorable break.

return to the serenity of the Park. “Whether you buy a holiday home on the park

140

Presented by the much loved conservationist himself; The David Bellamy awards were

“We have pitches for touring caravans for the

pioneered to recognise and encourage the

whole season with optional winter storage.

work done by holiday parks throughout the

“

An absolute gem of a site, family run and excellent value. Visited with my wife and 2 children (aged 7 & 8). We Paul, guest will definitely be back.

”

The awards recognise 3 levels of excellence

Having a great green holiday is not just

(Gold, Silver and Bronze) which are the result

reserved for the confines of the Park so take

of regular expert assessments throughout the

advantage of the beautiful British countryside

year to evaluate the steps holiday parks are

and get out and explore some of the loveliest

taking to manage their land as a haven for the

spots in Britain. As part of your break, why not

local wildlife, reduce their use of energy and

visit Lytham’s local nature reserve, boasting the

unsustainable resources as well as recycling

sand dunes of the Fyld and internationally rare

any waste they do produce and support their

plants such as the Isle of Man cabbage and the

local communities.

Dune Helleborine to really immerse yourself in the best of nature; and for the best of the great

Eastham Hall’s secluded level grounds and

outdoors as well as a spot of sport you can

shelter belts of mixed deciduous trees and

enjoy 18 holes at the beautiful Royal Lytham

hedges have become a sanctuary for some of

& St. Annes Golf Club or have some fun on

the UK’s most loved native species of wildlife

Fairhaven Lake.

UK to protect and enhance Britain’s natural

including owls, hares, woodpeckers and even

habitats. Piloted in 1996 the first awards were

skylarks in the summertime. With a commitment

made the following year, making the David

to supporting local suppliers wherever possible

For more information about how to book

Bellamy Conservation Awards now the longest

and championing recycling for the park and its

your stay at Eastham Hall Caravan Park and

running green tourism awards in the UK.

customers, Eastham hall have achieved a park

discover the beauty of the British countryside

which compliments customers and the local

for yourself visit their website at

“My dream is to upgrade all caravan parks up

habitat perfectly and provides an enjoyable stay

to some sort of conservation status so that they

www.easthamhall.co.uk or call 01253 737907

for both.

(and have a look for some great Spring deals,

can educate the visiting public and help them

perfect for a peek at the wildlife!).

respect and care for the countryside”

“Help the environment and have a great holiday

David Bellamy

by choosing a park with one of my awards.” David Bellamy

NICHE 141

BOTSWANA ultimate safaris

Botswana has six distinct landscapes. In the beautiful waterways of the Okavango Delta (recently designated as the UNESCO 1,000th World Heritage Site) is the lushness of vegetation which supports extraordinary numbers of birds and animals. Get up close and personal to the smaller creatures and see elephant and hippo playing in the narrow waterways. The dry parched savannah of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve provides a habitat for the many antelope always on constant watch for the big cats, lion and cheetah, who are on the look-out for their next meal. The moon-scape of the Makgadikgadi - the largest salt pans in Africa provide a contrast and here you can begin to understand the bushmen culture, spending time walking and learning from them. Here, sunsets and the night sky appear to stretch across the whole horizon. The Chobe National Park is usually the first stop for visitors to Botswana. It provides an opportunity to get acclimatized and to see the many elephant that frequent the Chobe River. The river flows along the northern border of Botswana and finally flows over Victoria Falls.

The rough and rocky terrain of the Northern Tuli Game Reserve provides an opportunity to have a go at many activities including night drive safaris which are not allowed in some of the other national parks. Finally, the sand dunes of the Kalagadi Game Reserve, one of the most remote and challenging areas and home to the rare black maned lion recently made accessible by the development of two small lodges. Low volume tourism is the norm, so a Botswana safari is perfect for families, couples and photographers. Seeing the wildlife in its natural habitat with no one else around will ensure that your holiday will provide the long lasting memories and individual experiences that dreams are made of. Even better, once the trip is paid for, there are very few additional costs. Typically, all accommodation, food, beverages, transfers and activities are included in the price. And with no shopping malls in the bush, locally crafted souvenirs and your memories are all you will want to take home. Botswana: making safaris better â&#x20AC;&#x201C; protecting landscapes without compromising experiences. When will you go?

Botswana Tourism, 6 Stratford Place, London, W1C 1AY

+44 (0)207 647 1018

dparr@botswanatourism.org.uk botswanatourism.org.uk

A slice of paradise Whether it is the rural beauty of the UK or the majestic landscapes of somewhere more exotic, we all need a change of scenery every now and then. No matter your penchant for sun, sand or soil there is a little slice of paradise out there for everyone so if you are looking for your 2015 getaway we have some ideas for your idyll! From the luxury of a 5 star hotel to camping you can enjoy the very best of Botswana with a trip to the Okavango Delta, recently awarded its World Heritage Site status, this beautiful piece of the world is not on the common holiday destination lists but it is definitely one worth considering. A bird watchers dream, with over 450 species you will not find anywhere on home soil, visitors can also enjoy a rare glimpse of some of the infamous African wildlife such as Rhinos, wild dogs and Cheetahs. With an array of guided activities and charming traditional crafts you will be assured of memories to last a lifetime from a trip to this area of the world. Closer to home doesn’t mean any less of an experience with the gorgeous Appin House providing an ideal spot for rejuvenation and adventure in the Scottish Highlands with spectacular views of Loch Linnhe and the Hills of Mull on your doorstep you may find you don’t need to adventure further than the luxurious 8 berth lodge.

The Okavango Delta in Botswana has recently become the 1,000th World Heritage Site. This amazing achievement confirms that the best eco-management practices have been employed by the Government working together with local communities and businesses. With the aim of protecting the wilderness and wildlife that finds a home there, Botswana is rightly proud to hold this title.

Botswana: making safaris better – protecting landscapes without compromising experiences.

The beautiful waterways of the Okavango Delta are a bird-lovers paradise, with over 450 species, including the rare Pel’s Fishing Owl and Saddle-billed Storks. With the continent’s largest population of elephants and over 130 other mammals there is no shortage of wildlife. The fragile environment is also home to some of the most endangered species including rhino, wild dogs and cheetah. Early morning and late afternoon light is perfect for photography. The small number of visitors allows you as much time as you want at a sighting and there won’t be lots of other vehicles in the picture. Expert guides organise activities including horseback safaris, walking safaris or simply gliding along in a dug-out canoe seeing wildlife from a different perspective. Accommodation alternatives, from 5* luxury and mid-range lodges to self-sufficient camping, offer fantastic service and activities. Since most safaris in Botswana include transfers, accommodation, food, drinks, activities and guide services, it isn’t hard to see that it is really ‘low volume, exceptional value,’ particularly in the green season when prices are often lower. And with no shopping malls in the bush, locally crafted souvenirs and memories are all you will take home. Contact: Botswana Tourism Organisation, 6 Stratford Place, London, W1C 1AY www.botswanatourism.org.uk dparr@botswanatourism.org.uk The Isle of Man is a haven for visitors and its three unique Heritage Railways are must for 2015. Dating from 1874, the Isle of Man Steam Railway is the Island’s oldest Victorian rail system. This 15 1/2 miles of narrow gauge railway still runs with its original locomotives and carriages, through and ever changing landscape, to a choice of destinations in the south of the Island, such as the impressive Castle Rushen, the picturesque Port Erin beach and the beautiful Silverdale Glen.

Discover the Isle of Man by rail

For some of the finest views of the east coast take a trip on the Manx Electric Railway, first opened in 1893. Running originally from Douglas to Laxey before being extended to Ramsey in 1899, its 17 miles of track are acknowledged as the longest narrow gauge vintage railway system in the British Isles. All trams are original, the most recent dating from 1906 and the oldest from 1893. Laxey is the starting point of the Snaefell Mountain Railway, a unique Victorian enterprise which winds its way up above 2,000 feet to the top of Snaefell, the Island’s only mountain. At the top enjoy refreshments and sunset dinners in the Summit hotel Cafe and on a clear day it is the only place one can see the Seven Kingdoms: The kingdom of Scotland, England, Wales, Ireland, Mann, Heaven and Neptune. For visitors, there are many money saving, multi-journey ticket options, private hire and group discounts are available and there is the opportunity to drive one of the historic Electric Trams in ‘The Ultimate Driving Experience’. Special events are put on throughout the year, enthusiasts will enjoy ‘Rush Hour on the Railways’ (03-06 April 2015) and the ‘Manx Heritage Transport Festival’ (29 July – 2 August 2015). Other events such as WWII Weekends, photography events, Rail Ale Tours and much more are put on throughout the year so don’t miss out visit us at www.iombusandrail.info or follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/isleofmanrailways.

144

Relax in blissful solitude at Appin House The privately own Appin House in the Scottish West Highlands invites you and your family to its stunning accommodation for your holiday or break away in 2015. Owned by David and Denys Mathieson, the self-catering house boasts breath-taking views over Loch Linnhe and the hills of Mull. Accommodation currently consists of one large self-catering house which has been created with a warm welcome in mind when it was built in 2007. The four star self-catering accommodation is a real breath of fresh air. You can expect breath-taking views over Loch Linnhe and the hills of Mull and it’s the ideal location to get outdoors and explore or the perfect spot to simply relax, unwind and get away from it all. The luxurious property can sleep up to 8 people and boasts all the comforts you could hope for. With Its Large open plan living/dining room downstairs, featuring Travertine flooring, Digital Freeview TV, DVD player as well as the ideal Multifuel stove in fireplace to cosy up to in the winter months, it’s the perfect home from home retreat. You can expect all you would need to ensure you are comfortable, with all amenities close to hand. You will be surrounded by the location’s 3 acres of land where you can stroll at your leisure through the beautifully kept gardens whilst locally there is an abundance of activities to keep you out in the fresh air and entertained. At only 40 minutes from Oban and Fort William, Appin House provides the perfect place from which to explore, particularly if you love to get outdoors. Within a 20 mile radius of the accommodations you can find Pony trekking, boating, fishing, cycling, golf, castles and plenty of historic sights. For the nature lover the area will be bliss as locally you will find see seals, sea eagles, otter, deer, many varieties of butterflies, birds and flowers. There are also numerous seafood restaurants of acclaim in area as well as a host of several local pubs, with restaurants and the Relais-Chateau Hotel with excellent dining room that’s just 5 miles away.

To find out more and to book online at Appin House visit www.appinhouse.co.uk or call Tel: 01631 - 730207 Dave and Denys Mathieson, Appin House, Appin, Argyll, Scotland PA38 4BN

Algarve Vale Do Lobo

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

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

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

2015 Season

Special Events

Isle of Man Steam Railway

Rush Hour on the Railways

Friday 6 March to Sunday 8 November 2015

Manx Electric Railway Friday 20 March to Sunday 8 November 2015

Snaefell Mountain Railway Friday 27 March to Sunday 8 November 2015

3-6 April 2015

Manx Heritage Transport Festival

29 July to 2 August 2015

Island at War

22 and 23 August 2015

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

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

FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, NEWS AND INFORMATION, CALL 01624 662525

www.gov.im/publictransport

isleofmanrailways

@IOMRailways

NICHE 145

Alpaca F u tu rity All things Alpaca are set to take centre stage at our very own Ricoh Arena in Coventry this March. From 27th – 28th March 2015 the arena will stage the Alpaca Futurity and p-Lush shows, showcasing an true Alpaca array from the animals to knitwear and everything in between. The Alpaca Futurity Show is the biggest of its kind in Europe and celebrates the very best in British breeding; with halter classes on the Friday and Saturday judged by Peter Kennedy (Australia) and Wade Gease (USA) as well as fleece show open to all European breeders to exhibit the beautiful and diverse fleeces Alpaca’s boast. The Futurity Show is the ideal opportunity to meet with fellow enthusiasts and breeders or browse a selection of trade stands for new ideas or equipment. In addition, the Ricoh Arena also hosts the p-Lush Show 2015 in conjunction with BAF championing the very best designers and craftsmanship including a theatrical extravaganza where visitors can lounge around in the Sassy Salon to Sit-n-Knit-a-Bit with specially commissioned p-Lush needles in aid of Target Ovarian Cancer. Designers will be on hand to demonstrate how they use Alpaca wools to make some exquisite products as well as running workshops for any aspiring Alpaca artists to attend; and if you’re still in any doubt be reassured that Alpaca wool is gorgeous and can be compared favourably to cashmere, it has excellent thermal properties and is second in strength only to silk. So for any budding designers or those with an interest in textiles, this could be the medium for you! If you would like to find out more about exhibiting or visiting please go to http://www.britishalpacafuturity.com/ for all the information you will need.

Snowshill Alpacas

Snowshill Hill Barn, Temple Guiting, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL54 5XX Contact Roger Mount on 01386 853 841 or 07711044106 Email: snowshillalpacas@btinternet.com Web: www.snowshillalpacas.com

Love your toes? Keep them cosy with Charlton Alpaca socks. Luxurious home grown alpaca socks in an exciting range of colours. Contrast, stripy and boot socks, walking, shooting and cosy bed socks, all made in Britain incorporating the finest fleeces from our herd of beautiful alpacas. Manufactured exclusively for Charlton Alpacas by J Alex Swift Ltd of Hathern. Prices from £12.00 per pair. www.charltonalpacas.com 146

A selection of stunning potential Stud Males, Pet Males and Breeding Females, in a variety of colours, are usually available. Why not phone to arrange a visit?For stud services; please visit our website to view our large selection of top quality studs. We adhere to good biosecurity practices and badger deterrent fencing was installed in 2009.

Alpaca ownership has soared in popularity and we can see why; Alpacas look similar to a small Llama but unlike the Llama were never bred to be a beast of burden, but for their fleeces whose fibre is similar to wool and is used to make textile products such as sweaters, hats, gloves, scarves and even bedding in some parts of the world. With two breeds, the Suri alpaca and the Huacaya alpaca, they produce a variety of coloured fleeces naturally (Alpacas come in 22 natural colours, with more than 300 shades from a true-blue black through browns-black, browns, fawns, white, silver-greys, and rose-greys) and while similar to sheep’s wool, it is warmer, not prickly, and has no lanolin, which makes it hypoallergenic and Alpaca is naturally water-repellent and difficult to ignite. In the UK The British Alpaca Society (BAS) are dedicated to the welfare of alpacas and the education of their owners as well as providing a fantastic networking opportunity for breeders and those interested in using Alpaca products. “Join the British Alpaca Society and become part of a national community, dedicated to all things Alpaca. Membership offers knowledge, networking and support to help you protect your investment and work towards your own alpaca aspiration.” BAS Alpacas can offer owners a great investment opportunity as well as being good natured companions and very sociable animals. The full pedigree register for the national Alpaca herd in the UK is maintained by the BAS and can be a great place to start if you’re looking to get involved. Training, seminars and advice are becoming more widespread throughout the UK and with the Alpaca Futurity Show due in Coventry this March there is no excuse not to find out more!

Welcome to Snowshill Alpacas

Snowshill Alpacas started with three pet boys in 2002. The idea being to help keep the grass down and to be of more interest than sheep. As we had found them to be very easy to look after, we decided to buy some pregnant female alpacas. The two resultant cria (baby alpacas) turned out to be good and we were persuaded to enter them into alpaca shows the following year. Both did rather well and one of them, Letitia, was placed 1st in all shows entered, including the Royal Show. We were then hooked, bought a few more alpacas, bred a lot and now have a herd of more than 160. There are two breed types of alpaca. The Huacaya Alpaca has a fine and dense fleece all over (the fluffy ones). The rarer Suri Alpaca has a very different fleece style which hangs straight down from the skin in twisted pencils/locks – not unlike dreadlocks. The wool from both has the softness of cashmere, but is stronger and has even better thermal insulation qualities. It is often wearable by those who have an allergy to other natural fibres. Alpaca fleece, also, makes superb fabrics for high end dresses and suits. As well as being farmed for fleece production, alpacas make excellent pets and are easily led out for walks on a halter. They also make good guards against fox predation of lambs and free range poultry. Prices vary from a couple of hundred pounds to many thousands of pounds depending on pedigree, age and quality. Visit the website www.snowshillalpacas.com or contact Roger Mount on 01386 853 841 or 07711044106

Keeping Cosy with Charlton Alpaca Socks!

It is a typically cold and foggy winter morning when all who can should stay in bed, but there is no lie-in for retired teachers Bob and Trisha Thackray. Running a smallholding gives you a good reason to get up and get on, and one of the first jobs is to feed the alpacas. The herd fluctuates in numbers but just now there are eighteen members of the Charlton Alpacas team, after a good season for sales which has included sending eight breeding females to a farm in Poland. Six crias (baby alpacas) are expected next spring and so numbers will soon build up again. New to keeping livestock when they made a start ten years ago, Bob and Trisha can confirm that alpacas are easy to care for. They suffer from very few ailments, and compared with their sheep, are remarkably robust. They give birth easily, and, when needed, don’t mind being handled. The alpacas came first, but were soon followed by the obvious question: “why alpacas?” They are friendly, inquisitive animals and really seem to like people, making them ideal pets, but Bob and Trisha were aiming to run a business. Their solution, to compliment the selling of animals, has been socks. The ever growing range of Charlton Alpacas Socks has proved really popular, with sales last Christmas outstripping all expectations. We use British fleece (including all of our own) and British designers and processors. We are proud of our range of high quality alpaca socks which we consider to be at the very top end of the range. Charlton Alpacas Socks can be purchased at award winning Ludwell Village Stores, or, more realistically for most readers, on line through www.charltonalpacas.com.

NICHE 147

Complete Recruit

Your recruitment specialist in the Midlands. Complete Recruit are a recruitment specialist based in the Midlands, with offices in Leicester and Milton Keynes. We provide candidates with quality permanent and temporary career and job opportunities right across the Midlands and beyond. The team has over 40 years recruitment experience between them. This enables us to be able to understand the needs of both client and candidate alike. We have a wealth of industry contacts which enables us to match the right candidates with the right opportunities.

0116 208 1255 / 02476 214590