Active Magazine // Stamford & Rutland // March 2025
142 | MARCH 2025
I wish I could fly; skydiving without the risk Travel: be a tourist in our capital city Cut, connect, create: meet artist Will Ashley-Norman Will’s Walks; this month he’s starting in Ufford
Editor and Publisher Mary Bremner mary@theactivemag.com
Deputy editor Kate Maxim kate@theactivemag.com
Art editor Matt Tarrant
Contributors
Will Hetherington, Jeremy Smithson-Beswick,
Advertisement Sales Director Lisa Chauhan lisa@theactivemag.com
Advertisement Sales
Emily Stillman Helen Chapman
Production assistant Gary Curtis Accounts accounts@theactivemag.com
Active magazine, Eventus Business Centre, Sunderland Road, Northfield Industrial Estate, Market Deeping, PE6 8FD
If you have information about a club then please get in touch by emailing editor@theactivemag.com.
If you would like to stock Active magazine please email distribution@theactivemag.com.
Active magazine is published monthly 10 times per year.
ISSN 2059-8513
Published by Triangle Publishing Ltd www.theactivemag.com
Disclaimer
Copyright (c) Triangle Publishing Ltd (TPL) 2019. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, or be stored in any retrieval system, of any nature, without prior permission from TPL. Any views or opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the iew o o inion of o it affiliate i laime of Liability. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the quality and accuracy of the information contained in this publication at the time of going to press, TPL and it affiliate a me no e on i ility a to the a a y or completeness of and, to the extent permitted by law, shall not be liable for any errors or omissions or any loss, damage or expense incurred by reliance on information or any statement contained in this publication. Advertisers are solely responsible for the content of the advertising material which they submit and for ensuring the material complies with applicable laws. and it affiliate a e a e not e on i le fo any error, omission or inaccuracy in any advertisement and will not be liable for any damages arising from any use of products or services or any action or omissions taken in reliance on information or any statement contained in advertising material. Inclusion of any advertisement is not intended to endorse any view expressed, nor products or services offered nor the organisations sponsoring the advertisement.
EDITOR’S LETTER
‘Gary thinks he’s going to be the new James Bond and they are both now after a part in the next Mission Impossible.’
The days are noticeably longer, snowdrops are in full bloom and the sun is even beginning to have some warmth; winter is loosening its grip on us and spring battling hard to take over. So, it’s time to look forward and plan for those longer days ahead. And we’ve done some planning for you with our spring into spring feature. Traditionally spring is all about cleaning, DIY and gardening; I’ll take the gardening, not so much the cleaning though. But it can be about anything as some of our local businesses – who we always want to support - have shown. Rumble is reopening (always something to look forward to), new curtains anyone? Chic new paint colours, start an exercise class, tackle the garden. There is so much to do now spring is on its way. Rejuvenation and rebirth for us all, so make plans for the days ahead, even if that means just enjoying more of Will’s Walks.
We’ve been having some fun recently, well Kate and Gary (our ad designer) in particular. Skydiving anyone? Not quite as dramatic as jumping out of a plane but indoor skydiving instead. We all went to iFLY at Milton Keynes and it looked an absolute blast (Iiterally). They both took to it like ducks to water and loved every second. Gary thinks he’s going to be the new James Bond and they are both now after a part in the next Mission m o i le d definitely e ommend it and a hoto a he wa it hin to have a go too.
Something else to plan for as the days grow longer and warmer is a trip to London. How many of us go there but never take the time to visit some of the many, many attractions on offer? This month we’ve written about some of London’s limitless landmarks, many of them free to visit. It’s fun to play the tourist in your own capital city and equally fun to do it at home too. I love wandering around Stamford visiting some of the shops and businesses I don’t often do. It feels like you’ve had a day out even though it’s on your doorstep.
Whatever it is you do, enjoy starting to ‘spring into spring.’
Mary - Editor
Be Inspired
ActiveLife
I wish I could fly. We try indoor skydiving, and it’s to be recommended! p30
Spring into spring; embrace the longer, warmer days. Cut, connect, create with Will Ashley-Norman. Products for spring. Will’s Walks, this month he starts at Ufford.
There’s no such thing as bad publicity
Bianca Gillam, as a family friend of Kate’s, did work experience with us at Active a few years ago and wrote a romantic travel piece on Verona and a very interesting piece on recycling in tland nd now look at he he a o t to li h he fi t novel. And we can claim it all started with us!
Bianca is now a London-based author and armchair expert on 80s and 90s rom-coms. Her poetry has been published in a a iety of li ation and now he fi t no el i to e published on February 27. She formerly worked in publishing, where she enjoyed editing a wide variety of brilliant authors; she was inspired by the books she published to write her own. Copies are available in Waterstones in Market Harborough and other local bookshops.
‘Yesterday they were just exes. Today they’re a writer and a li i t on to in o e fo a month and to find o t more about Bianca’s characters you will need to read the book.
Join Stamford Cycling
Stamford Cycling, a thriving new group formed by local enthusiasts, brings together cyclists who share a passion for exploring our beautiful countryside. What started as weekend rides has grown into an active community that welcomes riders of all abilities.
Their newly launched website features favourite routes and upcoming ride details. They’ve also created a local cycling hub that connects members with trusted bike shops, repair services, and cyclist-friendly cafes - making it your one-stop resource for everything cycling in and around Stamford.
Members enjoy both weekend and midweek social rides, ranging from gentle 20km routes to more challenging 50km journeys. Best of all - no one gets left behind!
Whether you’re new to cycling or an experienced rider, you’ll find a wa m wel ome eat offee to and ood om any
Visit stamfordcycling.co.uk
Follow @StamfordCycling on Instagram
Image: Robin Christian
The emotional charge of our issues and unresolved life stories is held in our mind, physical and subtle energy bodies, keeping us stuck.
Life Alignment identifies the root cause and unlocks the energetic imprint of negative patterns. Powerful yet gentle energy healing, emotional release and cognitive change techniques restore our natural state of vitality, confidence, joy and connection to our true self.
To find out more, contact Jane Turney (BA Hons. Psychology) for a free 20-minute consultation: 07816 654728; janeturney@yahoo.com www.life-alignment.com
Elsa and Midge vintage china
new ine ellin inta e en h and n li h hina and homewa e now ha a nit in Stamfo d o n x han e whe e yo an ee the wa e on di lay So ed in an e the en h inta e hina i o in e y o la a ti la ly the ea tif l latte and et of to a e a ea h ie e i ni e he n li h hina and homewa e i e ally ni e and i oni ea h inta e ie e wo ld fit ea tif lly omewhe e on one of yo hel e in yo home nd don t fo et othe ay o in and ha e a look o y online f om @elsaandmidge on n ta am
Art for every pocket
Oakham resident Helen Smithson has just launched her new website whe e yo will find limited edition fine a t and hoto a hi di ital int tom de i ned tote a and eetin a d with i e an in f om to ite a a ain a he o i inal aintin ell fo e e al tho and Sin e ainin he f om the oyal olle e of t elen ha exhi ited with the olio So iety at the iti h e m and i a y at the in thei ll t ation wa d and at the oyal ademy S mme Show whe e he wa ho en fo thei ma e of the ay hile wo kin fo the ime the e o iation and a an a t iti fo the am tead i h ate x e he al o fo nd time to ill t ate a n m e of ook fo the olio So iety in l din y de a a ant o othy a ke oel owa d a hne d a ie and oald ahl he ite e e t he etho of a ef l not a ele on m tion with e e ythin f om the am oo a e to the e y led tote a twine and a ka in a ef lly ho en to e a e o f iendly a o i le o ll al o find e e al ea tif l hoto a h of mainly lo al ene on the lo e tion elen told like to elie e thank yo a ha in a nity of di i line in the a t ot t i al di i line t al o oet y film a hite t e fa hion and o on o din ly yo ll find oth e e entati e and a t a t wo k on he ite omethin to it all ta te e in theme i the way ien e and a t meet in a i al ontext e ythin i onne ted elen aid ho e yo en oy i itin the we ite e en if yo hoo e not to y t i fo e e yone
www.helensmithson.com
Oakham sport partnership
Oakham School has proudly unveiled the Oakham sport partnership, an initiative to enhance the sporting provision, access, opportunity and experience of all young people in the town of Oakham.
he offi ial la n h of the akham o t a tne hi held in Oakham School’s cricket pavilion, brought together representatives from 10 different town sports clubs including Oakham CC, Vale Judo Club and Oakham RFC, as well as local primary and secondary schools and administrative organisations.
The attendees enjoyed the chance to share their experiences and talk about ways to collaborate, from increasing participation and club memberships to sharing facilities and working together on joint capital development projects.
‘By working together, we aim to create a vibrant and in l i e o t lt e that enefit yo n eo le a o the region, ensuring they have access to the best facilities, coaching and o o t nitie to ow oth on and off the field ay Oakham’s Iain Simpson.
Future events are open to all parents who are interested in developing their child’s sporting talent. For more information please contact Iain Simpson at is@oakham.rutland.sch.uk
New Lodge Farm is a finalist
We are delighted that New Lodge Farm near Bulwick has been shortlisted for a Countryside Alliance award in the Rural Enterprise category. The Awards are the Countryside Alliance’s annual celebration of British food and farming, enterprise and heritage through our small hard-working businesses. The Awards, now in their eighteenth year, are set apart from other award schemes because they are driven by public nomination, offering customers the chance to say why their favourite businesses are worthy of national acclaim. The Awards received thousands of nominations this year so New Lodge Farm has done extremely well to e a finali t
The farm is based between Bulwick and Laxton on the North Northamptonshire border with Rutland, Lincolnshire and Leicestershire. Whilst remaining a working livestock farm, the location has been caringly
developed into a highly respected provider of leisure services, offering an awardwinning farm shop, butchery, café/ restaurant, a top of the range swim spa and a fi e ta ex l i ely ad lt to in a a an motorhome, camping and glamping village. New Lodge Farm seamlessly blends tradition with modern leisure, continuing its legacy as a thriving livestock farm while welcoming guests to an award-winning destination for relaxation and indulgence.
Winners will be chosen via a public vote which opens in March and the winners will be announced in April. The winners will then go on and represent their region in the final at the o e of o d in the national champions reception in June 2025.
To find out more and to vote go to www.countryside-alliance.org/caawards
What’s On!
The Very Hungry Caterpillar show is on at The Core at The Cube in Corby from March 28-30. The show features more than 75 puppets and faithfully adapts four of our favourite stories by Eric Carle including, of course, The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Tickets are priced from £13.50 with group rates available. www.thecorecorby.com
The Hub at Rutland Point near Morcott has a busy month of events planned including on March 1 a paint and prosecco acrylic workshop with Sue Bagshaw; a tarot and tapas night with Hope and Harmony on March 7; a rockabuy pop up shop on March 23, and Mother’s Day afternoon tea on March 30. To book visit their facebook page or call 01572 729989.
There’s lots going on at Ferry Meadows for the holidays including 30% off at pay and play watersports at Nene Outdoors. You can complete the holiday trail at Ferry Meadows or ride on their railway. There are daily events to sign up for as well so do visit their website www.nenepark.org.uk
Sue Ryder is holding Grief Kind Spaces in Stamford every Friday from 10-12pm at Mindspace in Broad Street. These weekly drop-in sessions are run by trained volunteers where anyone experiencing bereavement or grief can drop in for a coffee and a chat with people who are experiencing, or have experienced, similar events.
A date for your diary is the Grim Reaper on May 25 at Grimsthorpe Castle. It’s a multi distance running event catering for all ages and abilities. There are two 10 mile races, one starting at 10am, the other at 9pm which attract runners and walkers. And then there are ultra marathons of 40, 70 and 100 miles run in 10 mile loops. There are also two team relay options. For more information and to book your place, head to www.bog-dog.co.uk/the-grim-reaper
Clothes Sale
The For Rutland Good and New Sale, one of the biggest of its kind in the country, takes place on March 28 and 29 at Rutland Hall Hotel. The sale has something for everyone looking for pre-loved clothing ranging from designer to high street for men, women and children. The Friday night sale is ticket only at £25 each and Saturday tickets are £5 where most items will be half price. Money raised goes to Citizens Advice Rutland. www.forrutland.org.uk
As ever there’s lots going on at the theatre at Stamford’s Corn Exchange including a comedy club and performances from 10cc’s Graham Gouldman and the Ultimate Killers. For more info go to www. stamfordcornexchange.co.uk/whats-on
LET’S PARTY!
VIK Party Packages
(Very Important Kids)
at
Ellique Aesthetics offering Laser Hair Removal
Our birthday party packages are all priced per child (prices from £15 for party packages), and all include a minimum of:
• Use of a dedicated space for your party for up to 1 1/2 hours
• Unlimited Jugs of cordial
• Party food for the kids (either a 5-item nger bu et or single main meal with side)
But we can do more, from adding in decorations, sweet station and DJ & disco, the choices are endless. Iron Pit Woods can create the perfect birthday party, A Par-Tee to remember!
Or alternatively why not book an activity only package with prices from just £5.00 per person with a minimum of 10 participants.
Holiday Inn Corby - Ke ering A43 | Geddington Road, Corby, Northamptonshire, NN18 8ET Tel: 01536 401020 Web: h ps://ironpitwoodsadventure.co.uk Email: events@hicorby.com /holidayinncorby/holidayinncorby
The Feline World
Clear Ridge Veterinary Surgery has always had a great interest in Cats and the Cat owner’s world, and feline medicine in particular.
We welcome all ages of cat from the tiniest, to the more revered and ancient.
Simple Boosters to Renal Failure and Complex Internal Medicine cases, to Involved Operations.
Heart and Chest Problems to Abdominal Surgery, to Feline Fracture Repair.
55 South Street, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6BG
Tel: 07561 852066
www.elliquebeauty.co.uk
elliquebeautyoakham Ellique Beauty
We welcome seeing your Feline Friend...
For more information or to discuss any part in more detail, please call and speak to any of the Clear Ridge Team at our Stamford practice: Tel 01780 764333 or Orton Wistow Tel: 01733 230000
Orthopaedic Service
Lameness Assessments
X-Ray +Ultrasound Assessment
Fracture Fixations
Treatment/Surgery for Traumatic Injuries/ Wounds
Cruciate Ligament Disease/Injury
Stabilisation
Meniscal(Cartilage) Assessment.
Patellar Luxation(Dislocation) Surgery
Tendon Injury Repairs
BVA Hip Scheme and Elbow Scheme
Radiography
Cheesy leeks with ham
Eating seasonally is a sustainable way of living and usually the most cost effective. Air miles are reduced, or are non existent, and you know what you are using is probably the freshest it could be, particularly if you buy from a farm shop.
I’m a great fan of leeks and they are still in season now. So you may be lucky enough to still have them in your garden or allotment. Try this recipe, it’s simple, delicious and perfect for mid week suppers.
Ingredients
• 3 leeks
• Packet of cooked, sliced ham
• 30g butter
• 30g flour
• 140ml white wine
• 250ml milk
• 1 tbsp wholegrain mustard
• 1 tsp thyme (fresh if possible)
• 75g Cheddar cheese
• 100g Brie
Method
• Heat the oven to 180 degrees. Cut the leeks into approx 8cm lengths and then wrap around slices of ham using all of ham and leeks. Place in the base of an oven proof dish.
• Melt the butter then stir in the flour and cook over a medium heat for a couple of minutes. Whisk in the wine and milk and bring to the boil stirring all the time. Simmer for a couple of minutes.
• Stir in the mustard, thyme leaves and Cheddar cheese until melted and then pour over the leeks. Top with the brie and cook for about 30 minutes until bubbling and golden.
• Serve with crusty bread.
The lady of the woods
Meet a pioneer species, the birch. Rowan Griffiths tells us more
There are many species of birch trees in the UK but the most common are the silver and downy, the latter more common in the Highlands of Scotland. At the end of the last Ice Age they were the fi t t ee to oloni e o o ed landscapes and are hence known as a pioneer species.
Birch trees are tolerant of a range of climates and can be found as far south as Spain and all the way up to Lapland. In Britain they really favour heaths and dry woodland areas.
They’re a medium sized deciduous tree and can grow up to 30 metres tall and have a light canopy consisting of gently drooping branches. The tree has a whitish papery bark that develops da k fi e with a e he i ht een leaves are broadly triangular in shape with toothed ed e he owe a e monoecious which means that both male and female owe atkin in thi in tan e exi t on the ame t ee These catkins appear in April and May and the sexes are distinguishable from each other. The male catkin is long, browny yellow in colour and hangs in small groups, whereas the female ament is small, short and much greener in hue. Following pollination, the tiny seeds, of which there are millions spread on the wind in the autumn.
In many cultures the sap of the tree is tapped in early spring to form the basis for either a wine or a syrup, the latter being not dissimilar to that of maple. In folklore the birch has association with ifi ation and enewal in e they a e known to be soil improvers just by virtue of their presence.
Birch twigs made into brooms (besoms) were used to sweep out the old and bring in the new, but as you well know these were also the favoured mode of transport for those pesky witches.
PerfectFit harness
Modular harness made up of three pieces, with individual pieces available so it’s a perfect option for growing pups.
Price: £40.96 for 20mm set from www.peterboroughposhpetz.co.uk
Warmcor changing tube
This helps you get warm and dry quickly after an open water swim. Available in small, medium, large and extra large in four different colours.
Price: £48 from www.warmcor.com
Yeti Rambler
A cup holder friendly mug with a wide straw that handles everything from smoothies to all day iced drinks. Reusable straw, dishwasher safe and double wall insulated.
Price: £37.99 from Tallington pro shop or online at www.tallingtonlakesproshop.com
Belgian chocolates
Delicious chocolates from Madame Chocolat in Oundle. Perfect for Mother’s Day.
Price: £4 to £24 from The Market Place, Oundle. 01832 358170
Eyebrook Fledgling Mix
Produced on the Johnson family conservation farm in Rutland, this nutritious mix is the ideal way to attract birds and their young to your garden.
Price: From £15 and birdseed feeders from £7.99 from www.eyebrookwildbirdfeeds. co.uk or visit the farm shop in Great Easton.
Limitless London
Become a tourist in our capital city
Here’s a question. How many of you visit London and actually play the tourist and enjoy some of the stunning offerings that our capital has on offer? Not many of us I imagine. It’s usually hop on the train and either go to the meeting and straight back again or meet up with friends and forget the sights. Maybe the nearest we get to it is going to the theatre. So why not take the time and make a weekend of it so you can really take in all that London
has to offer; you will really enjoy it and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
I always like to either take an open top bus tour, or even better, a walking tour of a city so you can get your bearings and see some of the most famous sights and learn a bit about the history. And London is no different. These bus tours are excellent as you can hop on and off wherever you like, visit a venue and hop back on again.
Obviously there is so much to see in
London and you can plan your time according to your tastes. Many museums and galleries are free to visit so you can do it on a tight budget. If architecture and beautiful monuments are your thing visit landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, St Paul’s cathedral and the Royal Albert Hall and many, many more. Do make sure you wander down Regent Street to enjoy the beautiful Georgian buildings and curved t eet Sli htly f the afield a e atte ea
'And if
you are going to the Tower you absolutely must visit the crown jewels; once seen never forgotten. The 23,578 gemstones are part of the Royal Collection and some of the jewels are jaw dropping.'
power station and the Old Royal Naval College at Greenwich. And, of course, the Tower of London. And if you are going to the Tower you absolutely must visit the crown jewels; once seen never forgotten. The 23,578 gemstones are part of the Royal Collection and some of the jewels are jaw dropping. You stand on a conveyor belt which takes you past crowns, orbs, sceptres, swords and diamonds to die for. I won’t tell you how many times I went back on the conveyor belt but thankfully there is no limit, so allow plenty of time for this visit as I promise you will want to see them more than once.
If jewels are your thing – and they are definitely mine yo need to o to the Victoria and Albert museum to enjoy the
Cartier exhibition which starts in April. And if jewellery isn’t for you visiting Exhibition Road and all the museums, particularly the Natural History and the British Museum are fascinating, and entry is free. Just remember that exhibitions are usually ticketed with a charge.
If you are still in the mood for more culture head to Trafalgar Square and the galleries. The beauty of the National and Portrait Galleries are that they are also free to enter so rather than spending hours there and becoming overwhelmed by so much art you can pick and choose what you want to see and then return later for a bit more. Some of my favourites are the Monets and Manets, Van Gogh, Constable and Canalettos, and
don’t forget the Stubbs and Turners. To be able to see these masterpieces for nothing is a privilege; long may it continue. A less well known, but equally impressive gallery is the Wallace collection in Manchester Square just off Oxford Street. And I would suggest a cocktail or lunch here as the setting is marvellous.
You can take a trip on the river or hire a Boris bike and of course enjoy a stroll in one of the many beautiful London parks; Hyde, Green or Regent’s, where of course you can also visit the zoo. And if you are in this part of London a trip to Madame Tussauds is definitely to e e ommended
Of course, a trip on the London Eye is another one to put on your list so you can enjoy a bird’s eye view of the city. And we haven’t even got on to theatres, shopping or dining. In fact there is so much to do that you could easily spend a week in the capital, a weekend or spend many, many happy day trips exploring London and its highlights and some of its secrets too.
www.rct.uk
(Buckingham Palace and Royal Collection) www.hrp.org.uk
(historic royal palaces and crown jewels) www.britishmuseum.org www.vam.ac.uk www.nhm.ac.uk
Spring is knocking on winter’s door so it’s time to plan for warmer days ahead
We’ve almost made it; nights are definitely d awin o t nowd o a e owe in and othe in l won t e fa ehind inte i loo enin it ti ht i on o it time to think of wa me lon e day and all tho e lan we made aditionally now wo ld e the time fo the eat in lean and that i till the a e fo many of nd a well a a in lean the e o ld e a ef e h in the ho e with new tain de o atin and way f om the ho e o in o ld mean takin a new o t ettin fitte oinin a l wo kin on yo health anythin at all nd in of o e mean ettin o t in the a den e e een talkin to ome lo al ine e who ha e i en thei ad i e and e ommendation to hel wel ome in the in
FOR THE HOME AND GARDEN
Sharpen your tools
on t lea e it to the la t min te if yo e a o t to t yo a fo the fi t time and di o e yo mowe doe n t wo k he ette the ondition yo a den tool a e in the ette o they ll do ay a id o man of o man i lt al n inee in o mowe need an ann al e i e whe e the lade a e ha ened the f el i han ed and the old f el di o ed of en i ly not down the d ain
o hed e t imme t imme and hain aw al o need ome a e and attention othe wi e the en ine ha e to wo k o e time whi h i not ood fo them in the lon n o an of o e do thi yo el e t why not a k the ex e t who will make e yo e i ment i in ti to ondition eady fo yo to en oy yo a den www.dgnorman.co.uk
Home furnishing refresh
t een nea ly two yea in e iona Swan mo ed the ine f om a mall wo k oom a o e an offi e in h a ton whe e he had a e oke tain makin e i e to the a io ho in ndle whi h i ent ally lo ated t ha a ma nifi ent ho f ont whi h ha een the e fe t ad e t to omote he e en e in thi hi to i ma ket town
he mo e ha een o e whelmin and the demand fo a f ni hin fa i ho onfi m that all the ha d wo k wa wo th it hen i itin the ho yo will find an exten i e fa i li a y with many of yo fa o ite and he e a e e la ly dated with ea onal olle tion
ithin the next two month iona will ha e e ei ed the new in mme olle tion o thi i alway a ood time to ta t lannin new heme all in any time onday to Sat day iona and he team will e ha y to o de any am le to e ent di e tly to yo home
iona i al o now to kin home item fo tho e fini hin to he e ha all a e aint and a ele tion of li htin will om lete the look we all t i e to a hie e www.fionaswancurtainsandblinds.co.uk
A new lick of paint
S in i the e fe t time to f e hen yo old f nit e and the ea ie t way to i e it a new lea e of life i with a li k of aint en hi aint to e e i e a ey m o i m in in ham i the only to ki t of thi fa lo aint in the a ea and a ey an t ai e it hi hly eno h t o ea y to e it ot a lo ely on i ten y the e a eat an e of olo and it a i k and ea y way of datin yo old f nit e o yo lea n to lo e it a ain en hi f nit e aint i a an e of halk and mine al aint whi h a e ol ent f ee hey a e d a le ome a e wate oof and an e ed on lot of diffe ent fa e with e y little e a ation
Tracey’s Emporium, Unit 7, Fernie Court, Station Road, Uppingham. 01572 729998
www.facebook.com/ Traceysemporium
Spruce up your boundaries
Spring is the perfect time to improve the appearance and security of your home and installing estate fencing, tree guards and teel lawn ed in an make a i nifi ant diffe en e tate fen in not only define your property boundaries but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of your landscape.
Tree guards are essential for protecting young trees from damage caused by deer or livestock, especially during the growing season. They can prevent bark damage and help trees grow healthier and stronger. Steel lawn edging is another great addition, eatin lean defined line etween yo lawn, garden beds and driveway.
Estate fencing, tree guards and lawn ed in o ide f n tional enefit while elevating the overall look of your property. This spring, invest in these elements to create a more beautiful, secure and protected home environment for years to come. www.paddockfencing.com
Get in your garden
We all know what spring means, time to get in the garden. The days are getting longer, the soil is warming up, so thoughts turn to a visit to the garden centre, and we are blessed with some fabulous ones in our area. They cater for our every whim ranging from a bag of compost and tiny seedlings right the way through to a vast range of plants and perennials to large one off purchases such as garden furniture and barbeques.
Staff at garden centres are usually full of knowledge and can answer any question you have often in the minutest detail. So pop down and fill yo t olley with e e ythin that yo a den need And while you’re there make time for a cup of tea and a piece of cake as many of these garden centres have some lovely cafés too.
> The Barn Garden Centre, Oundle www.thebarngardencentre.co.uk
> Bosworth’s Garden Centre, Elton www.bosworthsgc.co.uk
> Tandee & Van den Berk Nurseries Ltd, near Oundle www.tandeenursery.co.uk
> Welland Vale Garden Centre, Uppingham www.wellandvale.co.uk
> Kibworth Garden Centre www.facebook.com/KibworthGardenCentre 0116 279 2754
YOU ARE YOU
Green shoots of change
Do you know that trees are interconnected under the ground so they can reach out for help and bolster each other?I wonder if you are findin the o t yo need at the moment hil t ea ly lo om an in with it a en e of e i th and the e innin of the next life y le it i tho ht that a t ee that lo om ea ly i a t ally i in o t i nal that it need ome hel and i giving itself the best and longest chance to gather what it needs.
am no a dene t to ontin e with thi meta ho springing into life as the days et wa me and li hte e ha now i the time fo yo to ea h out for support? To give yourself the best possible chance to be who you want to be?
ike the l that emain hidden underground for so many month of the yea lowly and patiently waiting for the o nd to wa m in an e a e fe t time to think a o t what we may e hidin what we leave or have left unseen or buried.
Can you honestly say you are, or can be, the true and authentic you? Can you honestly say you are doing, or working towards doing, exactly what you want to do? Can you honestly say you consistently and genuinely are you?
f yo a e feelin t k t k in ome a ea of yo life t k in the past, stuck not knowing where the way forward is, stuck with bad sleep - however stuck is showing up for you, let’s change that. ike that een hoot findin it way f om the l th o h the earth, twisting and adapting as it grows stronger, always working towa d the li ht let me hel yo lo om and loom thi in o you really can be, and do, you. www.hannahmelvillecoaching.co.uk
Food for thought
t thi time of yea lina y tho ht t n to in lam nd tland a ed a me o with he lo in ly ea ed a fed to k fa med t he ed and t an o ted y he i t the la e to o e ome e a e he doe thi it ed e t e fo the ea t alon with thei a on foot int e mall fa m ho on the fa m off a n dale en e i the e fe t la e to o e ood ality meat in l din a a e and e e a e the t he y i done on ite yo a e a le to a k fo e ifi t and oint a well a whole lam beef or pork for the freezer.
he ho al o to k ie e e e and indi id al f o en meal in thei own meat a well a hee e and o ani e he e a e othe item in l din a ti an aft and od t nd look o t fo the weekly special offers. www.farmerlou.co.uk
Create your own wardrobe
'If
you are feeling stuck - stuck in some area of your life, stuck in the past, stuck not knowing where the way forward is, stuck with bad sleep - however stuck is showing up for you, let’s change that.'
S in i the e fe t time to hone your sewing skills and get started makin a im le o not o im le mme wa d o e he Stamfo d a i om any ha lot of patterns for all abilities to get you ta ted f om a im le hi t to ‘proper’ dungarees along with all the haberdashery bits and pieces you’ll need as well. A wide range of fabrics is always in stock so yo ll ne e find omeone el e wea in the ame o tfit one of the many ad anta e of makin your own.
t al o a eat time to ta t refreshing your soft furnishings. he Stamfo d a i om any has a wide range of fabrics
a aila le f om many diffe ent lie ome of whi h a e ex l i e to them hey al o offe a f ll makin e i e and an wo k with you to create new curtains, cushions and blinds all ready for the spring sunshine.
Devika Dementia Day Centre at Tallington Lodge Care Home
Every Monday 10am - 3pm
We will provide dementia-friendly activities on a secured floor and a light lunch and refreshments will also be provided.
Enquire today call 07760 357 095 or email carolineignatius@ devikacarecompany.co.uk
Stock up on your bird seed and visit our farm shop. Enjoy a walk and abundance of wildlife in our conservation farm bordering the Eyebrook Reservoir.
Oundle
Extensive fabric library. Many well known brands. Spring/Summer 2025 collections now available. Curtain poles, tracks, lighting, rugs and accessories Now stocking OKA, THE LITTLE GREENE PAINT COMPANY & HEATHFIELD & CO
Roller blinds, vertical, wooden slatted and shutter style blinds available to order.
Main Road, Tallington, Stamford, PE9 4RP www.countrycourtcare.com
FUN FOR ALL
Get ready to Rumble
If you’re looking for an exhilarating way to shake off the winter blues, Rumble Live at Rutland Water and Grafham Water is the perfect way to swap screen time for green time. This family run outdoor laser tag venue on the shores of the reservoir is all about getting us back outside and moving and - most importantly - having an absolute blast.
The Active team dived into the action a while back, ducking behind trees, strategising like commandos, and laughing our way through an adrenaline-fuelled adventure. And trust us, it’s nothing like the laser tag you might have played before. I can guarantee it’s great fun.
What makes Rumble truly unique is its equipment - cutting-edge la e ta te h that yo won t fi nd anywhe e el e in the t next level. There are multiple different missions and extra surprises hidden around the woods such as medic packs and weapon upgrades and the woodland setting means every game feels dynamic (without the bruises of paintball). It’s the ultimate way to reconnect with nature, get the heart racing and unleash your inner action hero.
So, this spring, step away from the screens, round up your squad, and get ready for some serious fun at Rumble. You won’t regret it. www.rumblelive.co.uk
'The
Netball for all
Founded in 2017, Stamford & Rutland Junior Netball Club (SRJNC) has grown into a thriving hub for young netballers in the region. With a strong focus on both development and performance the club provides weekly training sessions and competitive league match play, helping players progress in a supportive and high-quality environment.
he l i led y a team of alified oa he ome of whom al o work with county squads and Loughborough Lightning. Their expertise ensures that players of all abilities receive top-level training from beginners developing fundamental skills to advanced athlete lookin to efi ne thei ame
SRJNC is proud to be an inclusive club welcoming both boys and girls. The club also provides clear pathways into adult netball when the time comes. Players can progress into mixed and men’s netball, or trial for Harriers for women’s netball, ensuring they can continue playing at a competitive level.
The club also offers umpiring and coaching pathways encouraging members to get involved in all aspects of the sport. Whether aspiring to e a laye oa h o offi ial S o ide o o t nitie fo growth and development at every stage.
With a passion for netball and a commitment to developing talent, Stamford & Rutland Junior Netball Club is an exciting and welcoming community for netballers of all ages and abilities. www.srjnc.co.uk
Holiday clubs at Sibson Lake
Is your child looking for an unforgettable holiday adventure? If so, d ent e ene td i ex ited to anno n e the et n of thei id Holiday Clubs at Sibson Lake which offer the perfect solution to combat boredom and create lasting memories. Children will have the opportunity to learn new water sports skills, engage in exciting outdoor activities, and make new friends. All their instructors are hi hly alified and ex e ien ed and your child’s safety is their top priority.
Over the two-day programme children can participate in a variety of activities including paddleboarding, canoeing, kayaking, raft building, archery, axe throwing, bushcraft, climbing, teambuilding and orienteering; so much choice! To book www.adventurenene.com/ holidayactivities
Diamond Specialists • Jewellery Repairs
Engraving • Valuations • Gold Buying
Watch & Clock Repairs
Bespoke Design ServiceConversions
Restorations
Pre-Owned Jewellery & Watches
Fast and reliable service from Oakham Cycles
ith a ta oo le atin akham y le i a ho lo al eo le an t t o immi k no ff t elia le ike and an ex e t wo k ho e i e hethe yo need a no f omm te an ike to ta kle the hill o a hi h e fo man e ma hine they e ot yo o e ed
tland i a ime y lin de tination fo familie and akham y le i ildin a e tation fo ex e ti e in lo al a el and mo ntain ike idin Sto kin t ted and like i e fo affo da le ike and a tne in with e ida one of the i e t name in y lin they en e yo et the i ht ike at the i ht i e ana e a k ha wo ked ha d to im o e the ho in in the wo k ho indoo inte atin it with the ho oo eed a e ai o o lem ith a a k o nd in me hani al en inee in a k i knowled ea le effi ient and t ai ht talkin hethe it a i k t ne o a f ll e ild they ll et yo o ted fa t he e e en a Sat day y le S e y fo on the ot fixe a k ay e e not he e to eat the inte net e e he e to e e the omm nity with hone t e i e and a fai i e akham y le i a o t omm nity elia ility ality and kee in e e yone mo in o in and ee fo yo elf www.oakhamcyclecentre.co.uk
Churchill summer camps
h hill S mme am i a family n ine whi h take eat ide in offe in hi h ality hild a e th o ho t hool holiday in Stamfo d and ete o o h omethin they e een doin fo o e yea
hei f ted e i te ed am offe a wide an e of indoo o tdoo a ti itie to hel hild en ain onfiden e make f iend and ha e a o at a many a ti itie a an fit into the week he em ha i at the am i e y m h on ha in f n hey ide them el e on thei ality of hild a e and ex ellent taff atio allowin hild en to t y new a ti itie in a afe en i onment o nded y o ti e and ex e ien ed taff Some a ti itie in l de ad biking, bouncy castles, ball pit, ookin a t aft o ow o ientee in a well a a io o t hild en ook in fo the f ll week onday iday o e ho a e am m ea ly late a e f om am ntil m a e al o a aila le www.churchillsummercamps.co.uk
'It is an activity that encourages awareness of both your body and the environment which naturally brings you into the moment, and reduces stress.'
Put a spring in your step
Nordic walking treats your mind, body and spirit to many more enefit than t t aditional walkin t i all a o t liftin yo i it en oyin the f eedom to mo e and eathe ette a yo elax and en oy ein in nat e t i an a ti ity that en o a e awa ene of oth yo ody and the en i onment whi h nat ally in yo into the moment and ed e t e nd what ette time to ta t o di walkin than in a nat e awaken and t eat to i ant olo loom mell and a en e of new e innin he in time walk feat e daffodil im o e wild a li l e ell and he y lo om he woodland walk a e e enaded y the a i al of hiff haff koo wood e ke and mo e nd thei fa mland walk e eal hed e ow and meadow owe wallow and o n in lam o matte how yo feel at the ta t of any o di walk yo alway feel lifted and e ha ed y the end he o di walkin te hni e fo e on whole ody fitne eatin an effo tle hythmi ow of mo ement f om yo toe th o h to yo ho lde o yo an walk f the and fa te with ea e ea nin the te hni e ta t y lookin at how yo mo e and how yo an enhan e and im o e that mo ement to t en then len then and ta ili e yo ody f om yo o e o t whate e yo fitne le el o di alk it offe a a iety of diffe ent ty e of o di walk whethe yo need o t to kee mo in o want a o t to hallen e and t et h yo fitne they ha e yo o e ed f yo wo ld like to oin a ha y omm nity of o di alke in tland Stamfo d o a o o h lea e et in to h yo d e mo e than wel ome www.nordicwalkit.co.uk Jo Douglas 07949 392018.
I wish I could fly
Since dreaming she could fly Kate has always wanted to go skydiving but without the risk. With our ad designer Gary she had a go at iFLY Milton Keynes indoor skydiving centre
In my late teen and twentie wo ld often d eam o ld y and it was a fantastic feeling. I could move my shoulders and arms to direct where I was going and I felt weightless and free with a bird’s eye iew of the wo ld hen it t to ed and e ne e d eamed o ld y in e o a ly the a e of the wo ld ot in the way o hild en ayin the ill hen when my m m de ided at e enty yea old he wa oin to do a sponsored tandem skydive in aid of her local hospice I wondered if may e o ld oin he and ex e ien e the feelin of yin fo eal o han e m nowhe e nea a a e and int e id a m he al o een lidin a eilin and hot ai alloonin She e en on ide ed wing walking but thankfully it wasn’t possible for her to do it. So what the next e t thin if yo don t da e to a t ally th ow yourself out of a tiny plane even if you are strapped to someone else? You go indoor skydiving of course. I’ve had it on my radar for a long time so just before Christmas I dragged our ad designer Gary Curtis alon to i in ilton eyne to i e it a o ell d a ed i n t o e t a y i alway ha y to t y omethin new and he m ed at the chance as iFLY had very kindly offered us complimentary tickets in l din two hi h i ht ea h
Dress for success
e had to i n an online di laime efo ehand a i ally i nin o lives away and watched a training video explaining how to adopt the i ht o ition and what the a io hand i nal meant n the day we we e wei hed told to take off o wat he and any ewelle y and to do le tie the la e on o t aine e ma ly to to them yin off and lo in the fan e then d e ed in o i ht it t
'So, what’s the next best thing if you don’t dare to actually throw yourself out of a tiny plane even if you are strapped to someone else? You go indoor skydiving of course.'
on o helmet and ea l and oined the othe fi e eo le on o i ht alkin the tai ehind them it felt we we e a o t to em a k on a a e mi ion to a y ima ination wa nnin omewhat on o e d i e nd t th e told wa feelin ite ne o ot a y e wa e y ex ited and keen to et on with it i t of all we had to ha e a afety iefin f om i y o in t to hen we we e taken into the wind ham e St idly hadn t tho ht to wea my onta t len e o ld ha e wo n my la e nde the o le t they we e ite n omfo ta le and didn t want to lo e them o de ided to o witho t and e ently had ite a myo i ex e ien e o ld till ee what wa oin on o t ide the t nnel t o ldn t ee too fa a o e o elow me a y info med me late that elow the me h oo in wa a e y lon d o e we e with th ee lad who had ooked a o a ka e and a o le who liked oin on new ad ent e to ethe hey d al eady had a o at the indoo ki lo e next doo hey we e fi t then it wa my t n i y a ked me with hand i nal if wanted to do the hi h i ht t tho ht o ht to et the han of kydi in on the le el fi t o aid no hen leant fo wa d and fell into the a e while i y held on to me and manoe ed me into o ition a t f om ein told to end my a m mo e mana ed to i kly ado t the
'On my second go, Libby whisked me up in the tunnel for a high flight and that was incredible. I don’t know how she managed it, but she spun me up and around and I really did feel weightless.'
o e t o ition and felt etty elaxed t ai ht away t an ama in feelin yo an t hel t mile t it e y noi y and the la t of ai omin at yo f om elow i idi lo ly owe f l t not a ea ef l oaty ex e ien e t at mile e ho and mo e fo the hi h i ht it no wonde eally t o a ly t a fo ef l if yo e doin it fo eal in the i l e ky whe ea in my d eam it wa alway o alm
Come fly with me n my e ond o i y whi ked me in the t nnel fo a hi h i ht and that wa in edi le don t know how he mana ed it t he n me and a o nd and eally did feel wei htle he only
'Would I skydive for real now? I would love to experience that wonderful feeling of freefall, belonging to the sky for a minute before you pull the chord on the parachute.'
down ide i that ea h i ht wa t too ho t wi h d a eed to the hi h i ht on my fi t o a y had no alm tho h he a eed t ai ht away o he ex e ien ed two hi h i ht and a ol tely lo ed it e wa m h mo e te hni al a o t it than me e t ied to wo k o t how to mo e hi ody a m and le o he o ld t n and mo e and down fte we d all fini hed i y a e a di lay of what yo an do in the wind t nnel when yo e f lly t ained She a i ally looked like ide man doin om letely effo tle ome a lt and a k i hat a eat o to ha e o ld kydi e fo eal now wo ld lo e to ex e ien e that wonde f l feelin of f eefall elon in to the ky fo a min te efo e yo ll the ho d on the a a h te nfo t nately m till too a ed to m o t of a lane o think it a k to i fo me the feelin of wei htle ne i eally e y addi ti e o et a en e of what it like wat h the ideo on o we ite at www thea ti ema om
iFLY have sites in Milton Keynes, at The O2 in London, Manchester and Basingstoke. Price: From £39.99 for a mid week saver. For details of the different flight packages visit www.iflyworld.co.uk
Image: Sam Jones (Narrativ)
Cut, connect, create
How a delaying tactic to avoid revising for A levels became a career. Mary meets artist Will Ashley-Norman
Will Ashley-Norman was helping his father re-fence the garden with chicken wire in a vain attempt to stop their dog escaping. He then took the old wire and made a dragon out of it, entirely on a whim. ‘I was doing anything to avoid revising for my economics A level.’ The dragon captured his imagination so he made other sculptures out of the remaining chicken wire. And that was it for a few years as he disappeared off to uni to study archaeology.
He picked up the sculpting again, always using chicken wire, once he’d graduated dipping in and out of it for a few years, but it was always there in the background. Following a stint in sales in London and once he returned to Stamford, he decided to jack it all in and concentrate on the sculpting full time. He jumped ship and went freelance. But he had a plan.
Will had held an exhibition of his chicken wire sculptures in Stamford and was approached by a teacher who asked him if he would come and run a workshop at her school, teaching the children how to make a chicken wire sculpture. This got him thinking and made him realise that, as he was disheartened with the day job, there was a chance to do what he loved and make a living doing it.
Many of you will know that 3D art and modelling is on the curriculum for children, young children in particular. It teaches the children creativity, resilience, concentration and perseverance. And, of course, to use
'Will had held an exhibition of his chicken wire sculptures in Stamford and was approached by a teacher who asked him if he would come and run a workshop at her school.'
tool h a lie de elo in dexte ity ill o ld ee that he o ld offe wo k ho to hool who m ed at it e wo ld end a day at the hool tea hin th ee wo k ho to hild en of diffe ent a e e ta ted off lo ally and o e the yea ha ilt to doin thi nationally t one oint he wa nnin wo k ho a yea and ha deli e ed them to mo e than hild en hat a lot of hi ken wi e fi e o hel hool kee o t down and to t down all the t a ellin he ha een doin ill i now offe in a i tion e i e athe than deli e the wo k ho him elf o a yea he will o ide a hool with the kill knowled e and tem late to n the l t e wo k ho them el e hi will mean they an n the wo k ho at a fraction of the cost. In addition, wire can be lied at a mem e ate and a o i ion fo tool i a aila le ideo and t to ial fo taff a e al o a aila le to hel n the wo k ho he e t of it i that e e y hild will o home with omethin they ha e created. And as an offshoot of this he will ly indi id al i tion fo o yo an do it at home nd he al o o ide hi ken i ed l t e kit
The wire used is chicken wire but thinner than what you would use to wire a fence. ‘It isn’t scratchy, bends before it breaks the skin and i fin e f iendly ay ill he emi e of the wo k ho i ite im le he hild en a e o ided with a tem late hey t thi o e the wi e and t o nd it hey then end it to ha e and oin it to ethe in the end of the t wi e and then in hin it to ethe to eal it he method i exa tly the ame fo ad lt wo k ho too o i ly a mo e o hi ti ated tem late tho h t a the a e ti ta k and mindf l ill doe n t only e ent wo k ho he creates his own work as well. The ethereal ea ty of the l t e i ite om ellin e old a few ho t to eo le with a den follie and hi elief l t e whi h lo ed ha e old all o e the wo ld he e e o ati e h man o tline a e e y im e i e e al o doe malle oil l t e and i a talented ainte a well new t in to ill ow i to ia t e eate a f ame with hi ken wi e and then e ethi ally o ed ha n m mo f om the el h o de to fill the wi e in he e l t e a e m h la e and de i ned fo a den e initially fill the l t e with
'At one point he was running 100 workshops a year and has delivered them to more than 50,000 children. That’s a lot of chicken wire figures!'
oil and e en on ete to einfo e the le o it doe n t low o e and then o e it with mo hey han e olo in the a den de endin on the ea on n the mme they d y o t e omin a ei ey olo and then on e it ain e ome een a ain hey a e ite e o ati e and will e tainly e a talkin oint in yo a den ill i y eatin and i definitely on to omethin with hi hool wo k ho i tion o et in to h with him if yo want to talk a o t them o a o t an indi id al ommi ion
A peaceful stroll that offers one of the area’s quietest hamlets and a secret woodland paradise.
By Will Hetherington.
Difficulty rating
The route Park in Ufford on Main Street somewhere near the centre of the village and walk north along the road. After you pass Ufford Hall on the left you will see a footpath sign at Ufford Farm. Take this right turn and walk down the pretty lane. Stay on the track for a o t fi e min te t a oximately met e efo e it o en o t into the field ahead take the quick left/right turn to walk along the northern side of the hedge. There is a post in the end of the hedge but it’s quite overgrown and far from obvious.
Once you have switched to this side of the hedge kee headin ea t fo a kilomet e a in ilee Wood on the right.
When you reach High Field Road turn left and follow the ta ma no th fo a o t met e t h a iet o nt y lane wo ld e i ed if you see one car. You will walk into monastic Ashton with Gamekeeper’s Cottage on your right. The village is so peaceful you can almost see Miss Marple cycling past the old stone cottages. Turn left at the junction in the village on to Bainton Green Road and stay on this lane until you come into the southern edge of Bainton.
Woodland access
Turn left here and walk down the road and within a minute you will see the footpath branching off to the right. This path takes you through Hazel’s Wood where you will see plenty of signs about e mi i e ath the ainton do wash and references to some of the other wildlife that li e he e t a eat exam le of i ate landowners making wildlife and the countryside a e i le and wel omin and yo o ld ea ily park in Bainton and bring young children for an adventure here.
fte a o le of min te yo will ome to the end of the wood. Turn left here and follow the foot ath a it oe alon the ide of two field passing a peaceful bench along the way which looks perfect for a summer’s evening. The path then goes dia onally o thwe t a o a field and then a e over a stream. Stay on the path alongside the hedge fo anothe two mall field and yo will ea h the oad n i ht and tay on the oad fo fi e minutes as you walk back into Ufford.
When you get back to the village it’s well worth a quick detour up to the church where there are some nice countryside views from the elevated position. After that the White Hart beckons.
Images: Will Hetherington
A well positioned bench on the southern edge of Bainton.
Burn
Improve
Minimise
Release
ACTIVE INFO
There is a series of well indicated permissive paths around Hazel’s Wood, and plenty of entertaining signs giving an idea of the different forms of wildlife that inhabit the woodland.
Essential information
WHERE TO PARK
Somewhere on Main Street near the middle of Ufford.
DISTANCE
Three and a half miles.
HIGHLIGHTS
Tranquil Ashton sees almost no through traffic and has an old-fashioned charm. The area around Hazel’s Wood at Bainton is a paradise for wildlife and exploring, particularly if you have young children. The church in Ufford occupies an elevated position and provides great views.
LOWLIGHTS
The very last stretch is along the road back into Ufford but it’s hardly the A1.
REFRESHMENTS
The White Hart in Ufford.
DIFFICULTY RATING
One paw; it’s almost flat, there are no stiles on this route and the underfoot conditions are generally good.
THE POOCH PERSPECTIVE
There’s not normally any livestock because this is largely arable land and there is the famous Bainton dog wash in Hazel’s Wood.
For your own safety and navigation make sure you have an OS map with you when you go out walking. You won’t regret it.
The lane from Ufford towards High Field Road and Ashton.
Active Kids
Footballing friends
on at lation to ete o o h S hool ex e tional foot alle
So hie ea and ily ea who e e ented ete o o h United U11 and U12 against Coventry City on Friday 17 January.
So hie had a a ti la ly e f l ame o in ix oal and makin e e al a i t in he team win whil t ily had a e y t on ame defen i ely ell done i l
New choristers for Witham
itham a e deli hted to wel ome thei new enio ho i te to thei hoi family hey a e lookin fo wa d to hea in them e fo m th o ho t the yea anda e th illed to ee them te into thei new ole
Oakham hockey girls reach the quarter finals
Oakham School’s U16 girls’ hockey team have once again demonstrated exceptional skill and dete mination e in a la e in the a te final of the tie om etition fo the e ond on e ti e year.
Facing a strong Grammar School at Leeds side, the team o e ame an ea ly et a k afte on edin in the fi t half howin e ilien e and teamwo k to fi ht a k and laim an im e i e i to y he ad now ho e to em late the e of la t yea team who ea hed the final ith thei nwa e in team spirit and determination, the girls are eager to ontin e thei o ney towa d national e
A helping hand for hockey club
Dhaara, a Year 12 pupil at Leicester High School for Girls, is making an impact by helping lead the school’s hockey club. Having played hockey since the age of seven and served as hockey captain at her previous school, Dhaara brings lots of knowledge to the club. She teaches new skills and tactics each Friday, inspiring the younger pupils to improve and enjoy the sport.
‘LHS has a great sense of community,’ Dhaara says. ‘As a new pupil, joining the school felt easy and comfortable, especially with support from teachers and pupils. I look forward to every hockey club session because the girls are so excited to play.’
As the school looks forward to the spring tournament, the hockey club is a perfect example of how Leicester High School for Girls develops opportunities for students to lead, grow and succeed in a nurturing environment.
Witham Hall charity
Easter egg hunt
hild en a ed f om one to ix a e in ited to itham all ha ity a te e h nt on Sat day a h f om m hi e ent is open to the public.Families will follow the bunny trail through itham all hi to i o nd olle tin l e alon the way to earn a sweet treat at the end of the adventure.
amilie an al o en oy offee and ake in the o af and then make e itin aft to take home i ket a e e hild ad lt a e f ee ll o eed will o t the illo h y Foundation in Bourne. For further details and to purchase tickets, please visit www.withamhall.com.
Cross country success
Brooke Priory pupils were out in force at the Rutland League Cross Country. It was brilliant to see so many children choosing to run over two Saturday mornings in rather testing winter conditions. Mr Smith, head of sport, was very impressed by the hard work and resilience demonstrated by the Brooke Priory hild en a ti la on at lation to lfie lemmie lodie nnie eo e emima mmie a a im and alte who ame in the top three overall in their age group.
ActiveBody
EDITED BY KATE MAXIM
Red Flags
As soon as a patient walks into our clinic room we are quietly alert for signs that may help us help them.
Chartered physiotherapist
Sarah Babbs explains
They may be someone we are meetin fo the fi t time a o t whom we know nothing, or omeone well known to ften o atient will e e entin thei o lem to a ofe ional fo the fi t time whi h make it im o tant that we a e ex e ien ed and lookin fo anythin that may how they need diffe ent a e than we an i e Simila ly we need to e a ef l what we ay and make e we nde tand what the atient i a kin e a e al o often on lted fo a e ond o inion he atient may ha e een told y a a titione that they will ne e n o lay o t a ain t ite often oin th o h ood eha ilitation and et nin to tho e a ti itie in a ided and mana ed way will make them t on e mo e e ilient and le likely to tain in y in the f t e e ha e a e on i ility to make e that we a e the i ht e on to t eat and o t o atient ne way we do thi and a amo nt to the e t a e i to he k fo ed a he e a e ma ke that may i n o t a e io medi al o lem in l din e o ni in ain that may e f om a ima y o e onda y an e f omeone e ent with ain t al o feel nwell and ha a fe e thi an mean infe tion in l din may e e ent e o ni in a la han e in l din awa ene of lood e e i e la itie an mean efe al to the o e en the ho ital in a e of othe di ea e e a e often the fi t to ot lot o e e ially afte e y o t a el eo le with oint ain an ome to fo hel t he kin fo in ammato y ondition h a o iati a th o athy ankylo in ondyliti and he matoid a th iti i im o tant a medi al in e ti ation and
mana ement i im o tant in the fi t in tan e
ften atient look a kan e when we a k eemin ly e onal e tion in lini owel ladde and ex al f n tion han e ho ld ne e e mi ed when di in inal and othe ain he ne e nea the ottom of the ine that ly the e a ea an e affe ted in what i known a a da ine Synd ome f dama ed e o e y i oo witho t i al inte ention and an lead to e manent and life han in im ai ment li htly oke that am doin a li e i e anno n ement when a kin the e thin a not many atient a e awa e of them ntil it too late
Some e entation made need efe al a well a o hy iothe a y in t i tenin a ef lly to the e on to y when we meet an tell if they may ha e a t e f a t e o othe mo e im le m lo keletal ondition elated to thei daily exe i e and life tyle efe al to o t the one t e in l din annin meta oli and dieta y a e ho ld e done while mana ement of one loadin and a et n to o t an e mana ed y an ex e ien ed hy iothe a i t
nowin when oint ain and di a ility an e mana ed y hy iothe a y t efe al fo an o tho aedi o inion i wa anted i omethin we ee in lini mo e and mo e ha e een a n m e of atient who ha e e ome ite di a led y hi a th iti St en thenin and mo ility wo k will o t them t a oint e la ement i the an we on e ely eem to ee mo e eo le ein offe ed knee e la ement ea ly in thei life when ood eha ilitation t en thenin and nde tandin a o nd the o tion wo ld e e them ette at lea t in the elati e ho t te m m o tant too i e o ni in when the atient wo ld e ette eein omeone with ex e ien e of mental health whi h may n alon ide the hy iothe a y
So do e a ed that an ex e ien ed and on ientio hy iothe a i t will ha e yo a k in all en e of the wo d
To contact Sarah ring 07780 900201 or 01780 480889.
Align your life
Why do we find it so hard to break bad habits and create healthy ones that actually last? Life alignment practitioner Jane Turney may have the answer
Often, it’s not down to a lack of willpower. If our conscious desires aren’t aligned with the beliefs and programmes we hold in our subconscious mind it’s much harder to ti k to o oal e that to et fit eat healthily ild a business, create a better work-life balance and stronger relationships, o et o finan e on t a k e a ota e o e t effo t witho t knowin why t often because we take on beliefs and attitudes - ‘I am not good enough; I don t de e e money lo e et o am diffe ent o don t elon in ea ly hildhood o e en in the wom when we a e too yo n o hel le to nde tand hen a we ow and ada t to fit in with the demand of o ee hool wo k and o iety we may e o t e elf th limitin o elf ex e ion eati ity itality and a ility to feel oy e may al o lindly take on family atte n and intergenerational trauma.
‘Life alignment is a powerful new energy therapy based on ancient spiritual wisdom and 21st century science.’
What is your body trying to tell you?
We store our emotional patterns and traumas (big and small) in our odie ehind the ym tom of a k a he ne k ain tiff oint digestive issues etc, are the stories that we have locked into our ne o y tem o t e ti e and ell la memo y io a hy e ome o iolo y a we ay in life ali nment the i e i in the tissue.’
i ea e may e ome di ea e e ent ally if the nde lyin ten ion are not addressed. Even though we think we have moved on from a diffi lt time often we y o i e ali e in ide hi kee in a state of constant stress, overwhelmed, anxious or feeling ‘tired-all-thetime.’ This is where life alignment can help.
What is life alignment?
ife ali nment i a owe f l new ene y the a y a ed on an ient i it al wi dom and t ent y ien e t wo k holi ti ally with the hy i al emotional mental and i it al a e t of an i e to elea e ent o old to ie f o en in o ody mind he e to ie that to li in a thenti ally and to o f ll otential ife ali nment ha an ext ao dina y a ility to o to the oot a e of an i e t y a e the on io mind and o tain info mation via muscle testing and pendulum dowsing from the higher self (superconscious mind). This is the all-wise, witnessing part that know e e ythin a o t and who e only a enda i to e well Because life alignment has a direct route to the unconscious it can e eal info mation whi h mi ht take yea to eme e in talkin therapies.
n e the io ity i e ha een identified fo ed ene y healin and emotional and cognitive processing techniques clear the energetic ha e kee in t k in e y lin atte n St e i elea ed in ody and mind imitin elief a e e la ed y a new life affi min i t and eo le i kly mo e th o h t a ma and ain to inne peace and empowerment.
ne y the a ie a e in ea in ly e o ni ed fo thei t an fo mational a a ity e a e they wo k holi ti ally at h a dee le el ife ali nment an hel with a a iety of hallen e in l din anxiety de e ion atta hment t a ma di o iation an e ildin healthie o nda ie elf a ota e elation hi diffi ltie t a ma and S findin la ity and moti ation a o nd life o e
Aside from promoting individual wellbeing, life alignment has modalitie to hel in othe a ea ome ali nment ene eti ally lea home and wo k a e ta klin i e e e ted in the a e h a ne ati e family dynami t an ote t a ain t adiation f om wifi and hone ma t whi h di t the h man ene y field and lowe imm nity ani ation ali nment add e e the n on io dynami of o ani ation omotin ow ha mony and od ti ity in wo k o t an al o e a lied to o le relationships.
Jane Turney, BA. Hons Psychology is a life alignment practitioner in Market Harborough. If you would like to find out how life alignment can help you, contact Jane for a free 20-minute consultation. 07816 654728; janeturney@yahoo.com; www.life-alignment.com
Avoiding anaemia
Potentially fatal anaemia cases are on the rise –watch out for lesser-known signs
Recent research reveals anaemia, a potentially fatal condition often a ed y i on defi ien y i on the rise. Cases have risen by 420 million over the last three decades and one fourth of the global population are now anaemic. Women are more likely to have the condition. Now 31.2% of women have anaemia compared to 17.5% of men. And younger or pregnant women in the UK are the most likely to be affected.
In the UK, 57,000 emergency admissions ea h yea a e d e toi on defi ien y anaemia 23% of pregnant women in Britain have the condition and up to 12% of all premenopausal women.
Anaemia can be fatal if untreated. However, despite the fact that it can be identified y a im le fin e i k lood te t it’s likely that many cases are going undiagnosed, warns a leading expert.
Dr Avinash Hari Narayanan (MBChB), Clinical Lead at London Medical Laboratory says: ‘Anaemia, often caused by iron defi ien y an e a kille if left nt eated Anaemia results in a decreased oxygencarrying capacity of the blood. In the short term, the body tries to compensate with an increase in heart and respiratory rate. This is not sustainable long term and can lead to heart failure, angina, arrhythmias, cognitive impairment and renal failure.In pregnant women, untreated anaemia can cause premature birth and low birth weight.
‘Cases are on the rise. Recent research published in ‘The Lancet’ reveals 1.92 billion people globally have anaemia, up from 1.5 billion in 1990. Here in the UK, 12% of women of childbearing age are thought to have the condition. Yet many Brits never suspect it. It is also important to note that people can become anaemic if they are defi ient in itamin and foli a id t
times, anaemia can become a precursor for a more serious underlying medical condition.
‘There are a number of quite well-known symptoms that many people areaware of. These include tiredness and a lack of energy, shortness of breath, heart palpitations and a pale complexion. Anyone suffering from these symptoms is recommended to seek medical advice and consider having a blood test to check for potential causes.
‘However, while pregnant and younger women should pay particular attention, it’s important that everyone look out for these lesser-known signs:
• frequent headache
• tinnitus (a noise in the ears)
• an altered sense of taste
• feeling itchy
• a sore or abnormally smooth tongue
• hair loss
• a desire to eat non-food items, such as ice, paper or clay (known as pica) diffi lty wallowin known a dysphagia)
• painful, open ulcers on the corners of the mouth
• spoon-shaped nails
‘Very often, anaemia caused by iron deficiency can be easily treated with supplements and dietary changes.’
e y often anaemia a ed y i on defi ien y an e ea ily t eated with supplements and dietary changes. It is important to get symptoms checked out though. In men and post-menopausal women, a common cause is bleeding in the stomach and intestines. This could be caused by a stomach ulcer,stomach cancer, bowel cancer or by taking non-steroidal antiin ammato y d
‘You can contact your GP to take a blood test, or they are also now available as a im le fin e i k te t that an e taken at home. The test will analyse the body’s iron levels and stores by measuring iron, ferritin, transferrin saturation and iron-binding capacity.
‘Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) analysis is the capacity of blood cells to carry iron. Transferrin saturation is another way of showing how well blood is using the iron in your body. Ferritin is a protein that stores iron. If it is low, then your iron stores are low. Ferritin also functions as a e y im o tant mea e of in ammation o if the e i in ammation fo any othe reason (such as autoimmune conditions, infections or excessive alcohol), it may be very high.’
London Medical Laboratory’s Iron Status Profile blood test can be taken at home through the post, or at one of the many drop-in clinics that offer these tests nationwide in over 120 selected pharmacies and health stores. www.londonmedicallaboratory.com
Roshi devices have been used by mental health clinicians, Olympic athletes and others invested in achieving peak physical and mental performance in the USA since the 1990s.
RoshiWave can help you gain the lasting benefits of meditation even if you find it hard to switch o your chattering mind.
• Induce calm and enhance sleep
• Help with pain management
• Enhance sporting performance
• Optimise brain performance
• Protect your brain health
RoshiWave device
Safe and easy to use, for young and old alike. Whether in a steady state of ‘flow’ or winding down to relax, RoshiWave helps your brain be at its best even during times of stress.
This simple, portable device, small enough for a pocket or handbag, can help deliver the inner peace you seek.
You’ve Got Rhythms
Dr Naomi Murphy urges us to wake up to our circadian rhythms - the key to our biological clock - and explains how to get back in tune with them, in a flash
Did you know your body has its own circadian pacemaker which is designed to run on a 24-hour cycle? The word circadian actually comes from the Latincirca diem which means, literally, about a day.
This pacemaker is located in the area of the brain called the hypothalamus, which is highly sensitive to light. It tells your body to wake up when it’s light. And then to get sleepy when the sun sets. It promotes good quality, restorative sleep. If it is working properly.
But it doesn’t only help with sleep. Every one of your major bodily processes takes its lead from your circadian rhythm. Your body was designed exquisitely for the natural world and its cycles of light. Natural light switches your bodily processes on and off as needed. It tells you when to eat, when to have a bowel movement, whether to socialise or withdraw, to exercise or replenish. It directs your hormone e etion in en e yo di e tion affe t yo mood and o e n your cardiovascular system.
e now nde tand that ex o e to a tifi ial li ht an w eak havoc, not only on our bodies but also on our emotions, as our biological rhythms become misaligned.
People with severely disrupted circadian rhythms such as shift wo ke and f e ent lon ha l ie ex e ien e lee di t an e and tiredness, change in appetite, stomach and bowel function and increased risk of disease. For them, rates of particular types of cancer and cardiovascular disorders are higher. Disrupted circadian rhythms are associated with anxiety, depression, irritability, relational diffi ltie i ola di o de and y ho i
Getting back in tune
Let’s face it. We are all under pressure from simple everyday life to distort our rhythms from their natural course. But there is a lot we can do to get the whole body back into healthy rhythm.
Scientists are discovering more about the impact of managing light, and a hin li ht e e ially e en at ni ht while the eye a e lo ed and how it can be used to realign circadian rhythms. Side-effect free techniques like that used by RoshiWave employ light and electromagnetic stimulation over the full range of brain frequencies to help the brain achieve a steady-state response. It can have a powerful impact on the body’s ability to re-set its clock. Like deep meditation, RoshiWave quietens the chatter of the brain and enables the user to achieve a state of peace, clarity and focus, improving mood and sleep. Ensuring your circadian rhythm is aligned with your body’s needs might not be a cure-all for all ailments, but it can give your body a boost to combat the challenges you do face. And there is a lot you can do in your everyday life, to help get back into a natural and healthy state.
‘We are all under pressure from simple everyday life to distort our rhythms from their natural course. But there is a lot we can do to get the whole body back into healthy rhythm.’
Introducing a brief morning walk within an hour of waking tells your body it’s time to be up.Similarly, take one at the end of the afternoon, when the sun’s going down. It will expose your eyes to the reddish hues that tell you to unwind. Avoid bright lights late at night.
f yo i adian hythm ha e ome mi ali ned a a d University researchers suggest doing a 16 hour fast and then getting a k to e la on i tent mealtime nd fa tin whil t yin i a simple trick to combat jetlag, one used by elite athletes to ensure their reaction times don’t suffer.
Try not to have caffeine after midday or to eat food within two hours of bedtime. Both give your body the message they need to stay awake and make it hard to sleep. Ease back on alcohol.
Quite simply, the science says the more we are in step with our circadian rhythms, the sweeter the tune our lives will play, physically and mentally.
Dr Naomi Murphy is an Oundle-based leading clinical and forensic psychologist. You can find more information about Roshiwave, and other techniques which support good mental health and well-being at www.octopuspsychology.com
There’s lots going on this month in local sport including promotion for Stamford RFC, Jeremy rounds it up for us
There’s been no reversal of fortunes at Hambleton Road as Stamford Rugby Club continue to have a season to remember with both their men and women’s sides exceeding expectations. A recent run of three away wins for the women has seen them consolidate their position in the league and progress in their defence of the NLD Cup, as reigning holders, at the expense of an field t wa an em hati i to y too by 62-7 with their 10 tries shared between no fewer than eight players in an impressive all-round team performance in the face of atrocious weather conditions.
Arguably their best league performance came at Bedford Blues, a team above them in the table despite having played two games less. Their win there yielded a try bonus oint too and the final o e of o i ly atte ed the l e a it wa only two late tries from them that closed the margin to within respectability. Although the Purple, Black and Whites were then not able to upset the form book again at table-topping Peterborough Ladies, being well eaten thei o e in e inception in 2021 is remarkable.
And congratualtions must go to the men’s XV who were crowned champions and sealed promotion to Reginal 2 Midlands a t with a win away at e ond la ed Vipers. They attribute their continuing success to an ‘intensity in training’ with ‘higher levels of communication across the atta k and defen e a laye fi ht fo jerseys in the majority of positions.’ That om etition i a o t to et e en fie e with
player-coach George Cox now signed off by the doctor to start preparing to play again following his injury. Boss Matt Albinson ommented know how m h eo e ha missed pulling on the jersey and getting stuck in out on the pitch.’
Sadly, supporters of rivals Oakham, who within recent memory could give Stamford more than a run for their money in the then-yearly derbies, can only look on
‘They attribute their continuing success to an ‘intensity in training’ with ‘higher levels of communication across the attack and defence… as players fight for jerseys in the majority of positions.’
Image: Darren Dolby
Will’s Walks Will’s Walks
‘Deeping
Rangers Ladies will have the leading clubs in their league looking over their shoulders as a streak of winning all seven of their games, and with four still in hand, see them placed strongly to challenge for the Division 2 title.’
somewhat enviously. Realistically, they eem to ha e lo t thei fi ht fo i al at the Counties 2 level and, should the most likely scenario play out, next season will see them layin thei y th ee o fo tie elow Stamfo d a o e t that wo ld ha e een nthinka le not o lon a o ak et a e ood eno h to ha e eaten Stamfo d own w inklie away t la t month, which in some ways only a ent ate the han in moment m of the two l o e the a t few yea hat tho e et think a o t it i o a ly n inta le ndle like Stamfo d ha e a th i in women e tion and thei men a e to of thei own ta le ndeed they look et to te to ational ea e whi h i the fo th le el of the ame in n land o the e ll e ome di tin t ality on how next yea at ation oad if that ome to a he women will e t en thened f the y the e ent a ointment of o y o i an who i al o i e to of y fo the a t idland a thei head oa h with a fo of ai in the ofile of the women ame and laye de elo ment
he othe e ion of foot all now and Stamfo d aniel ontin e to hallen e fo a lay off ot t ha e een f t ated y a o le of hi h ofile lo e e ently thei fan know it not the fail e that diffi lt to o e with it the ho e he mo t recent disappointment came at home a ain t ein ton who we e la ed ixth to aniel e enth he ho t had ome into the ame oyed y win a ain t S d y and om o e whi h t them only two oint f om the all im o tant fifth ot and a tantali in ix f om the to he i ito won howe e whi h in an in edi ly om etiti e and ti ht lea e aw Stamfo d drop all the way to ninth. Only nine points e a ate the leade f om thei hallen e a low a ele enth la e o the e a till lot to lay fo fo all the ide in the di i ion hat in l de a o o h own who ha e e onded to thei exit at the hand of eadin with a i h ein of lea e fo m to ani h any talk of a ele ation attle hey e lea f o ed Stamfo d into the e enth ot and a to fi e fi ni h i now eminently o i le ana e it h tin aid e ll t y to kee in a o nd the
lay off and who know hey left it late to eat owe toft howe e thei winne omin in the fo teenth min te of added time e e a l to la k am ition they e i ned a deal with S ani h hannel a edia n le a whi h and ote will hel eate a S ani h followin fo a o o h own with ame ein li e t eamed in not only S ain t othe S ani h eakin o nt ie h a exi o entina and a o atin me i a and ow a lo al fan a e ay e they ll e wa in lea e fixt e a ain t i le wade fo a elona in a e ea on f iendly next yea y edi tion i to the ee yo ead it he e fi t ee in an e adie will ha e the leadin l in thei lea e lookin o e thei ho lde a a t eak of winnin all e en of thei ame and with fo till in hand ee them la ed t on ly to hallen e fo the i i ion title hei nde i l a e al o n eaten he men a e in a ele ation a t t a o t ha e thei no e in f ont of the ottom two at time of w itin o ne own a e e ond in that lea e a la e in the lay off all t e tain and a title o i le they e th ee ehind the leade t not t lea e e eithe a they had what o i hael oode alled a illiant and n elie a le day a they ea hed the a te fi nal of the a e fo the fi t time hei tie a ain t the ton a n m o e eat name fi ni hed t th ee enalty a e f om kee e an Swan the e m t e a oke a o t en he e omewhe e aw them th o h
On your bike!
This month Gary Waterfall rides a northsouth 27 mile loop with a respectable and achievable 1,500 feet of climb
Start in Great Casterton and head north before taking the right turn at the crossroads past the school towards Ryhall. Coming into Ryhall turn left and head north until you reach Little Bytham.
Take a right at the T junction and pass under the picturesque railway bridge. Follow the road into Swinstead where you’ll need to turn left and follow the road to Corby Glen. This is the half way point.
Turn left onto the busy road for about half a mile and then take the next left to Swayfield to begin the southbound leg home. Pass through Castle Bytham and into the hamlet of Pickworth. Here, follow the road around the sharp right corner and then over the cattle grids until you meet the short stretch of road paralleling the A1. Turn left, and then right under the A1 and then left at the crossroads to head back into Great Casterton.
For the route, follow this link or scan the QR code.
