Active Magazine // December 2013 by Active Magazine

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How to play with your puppy Part two of our great dog series: training using toys ISSUE 18 // DECEMBER 2013

STA M FOR D & RU T L A N D’S SPORT A N D L E I S U R E M AGA Z I N E

12 DAYS ISSUE 18 // DECEMBER 2013

d How to look an feel great over Christmas

Plus

Stars of sport

Winners of this year’s Rutland awards revealed

At the vets

You’re never too old to play rugby

Last minute present panic

www.theACTIVEmag.com 12

Ideas for emergency gifts

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" the sixth form is outstanding" ofsted

dare to excel sixth form open evening

Tuesday 4 February 2014 Presentations at 6:30pm and 7:30pm The evening will run from 6:30pm to 9:00pm Come along and find out all you need to know about our outstanding school Call us or visit our website for more details: 01778 342 159 www.deepingschool.org.uk @Deepings_6th Park Road, Deeping St. James, Peterborough PE6 8NF

Editor’s Letter

Publisher Chris Meadows chris@theactivemag.com Editor Steve Moody steve@theactivemag.com Deputy Editor Rich Beach rich@theactivemag.com Production Editor Julian Kirk julian@theactivemag.com

CHRISTMAS IS ALWAYS A RATHER contradictory time of year for us ﬁtness freaks. On the one hand it’s the perfect opportunity to act like a big kid and demand all manner of shiny new kit. And I may have something new to put on my Christmas list. I’m not much of a cyclist but the other day I nipped into Simon Wright’s new CycleWright shop in Stamford and borrowed his Cinelli carbon road bike for a bit of a play. If you’ve never ridden a bike worth a few thousand pounds, as I hadn’t, it’s a revelation. Every push of a pedal results in amazingly instant dollops of forward speed. No effort is wasted and you feel as though you’re zipping along on a scudding cloud. So if you’re wondering what to buy, and where, here’s a small plea. Please have a look at our local shops ﬁrst. It’s so easy to get on the internet, click a couple of times and throw a credit card number at it, but we have some great stores in the area, run by local people who will give you good advice and offer interesting gifts that will make this festive season even more special. On the other hand, at this time of year, all that excessive booze and food is not great when you’re a honed athlete such as myself (!). So we’ve compiled a handy list of healthy things to do over the Christmas holidays that are quick, easy and will keep you ticking over until the new year. I’ll be doing my best to follow them all, but I get the feeling the call of the pub might prove too much. Don’t worry though – our January issue will be full of diet and detox advice. I can’t wait. Merry Christmas and happy new year.

Art Editor Mark Sommer mark@theactivemag.com Contributors Martin Johnson, William Hetherington, Dean Cornish, Jon Tyrrell, Sandie Hurford, Jeremy Beswick, Julia Dungworth, Bob Warters Photographers Nico Morgan, Harry Measures, Jon Clarke, Pip Warters Production Assistant Abigail Sharpe Advertising Sales Rachel Meadows rachel@theactivemag.com Lisa Withers lisa@theactivemag.com Accounts Amy Roberts amy@theactivemag.com Active magazine, The Grey House, 3 Broad Street, Stamford, PE9 1PG. Tel: 01780 480789

A member of the Stamford Chamber of

Trade and Commerce

If you have information on a club then get in touch by emailing editor@theactivemag.com. If you would like to stock Active magazine then email distribution@ theactivemag.com. If you would like to discuss advertising possibilities please email advertise@theactivemag.com Printed in the UK by Warners Midlands plc. Active magazine is published 12 times per year on a monthly basis. Distributed by Grassroots Publishing Ltd. ISSN 2049-8713 A Grassroots Publishing Limited company. Registration company number 7994437. VAT number 152717318

Thanks, Steve

Disclaimer

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Copyright (c) Grassroots Publishing Limited (GPL) 2013. 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 GPL. Any views or opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of GPL or its affiliates. Disclaimer 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, GPL and its affiliates assume no responsibility as to the accuracy 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. GPL and its affiliates are are not responsible for 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.

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CONTENTS

Issue 18 /// December 2013

NEWS 11 I MUSIC AT ST MARTINâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

Stamford church launches 2014 season

12 I ON THE WRIGHT TRACK

CycleWright opens a new store in Stamford

16-17 I ACTIVE RUTLAND SPORTS AWARDS Local community sports stars honoured

HEADS UP 18-19 I CHRISTMAS KITBAG Last minute festive gift ideas

21 I MARTIN JOHNSON

More musings from the Sunday Times sports writer

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FEATURES 22-27 I VETERANS’ RUGBY

Jeremy Beswick reports on an aspect of rugby that still embrances fun, drinking and camaraderie

28-33 I HUNTING

Rutland is at the heart of some of the ﬁnest hunting country in Britain. Julia Dungworth reveals how to get involved

34-39 I 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS

Top tips on how to look good and feel great over the festive period

44-45 I PUPPY TRAINING

You’ve chosen your puppy, but now the hard work begins. Here’s how to make training fun and effective

REGULARS 40-41 I HEALTH AND BEAUTY

The latest advice to help you feel ﬁtter and healthier

43-43 I GREAT WALKS

Will Hetherington and Ella head out to Belton

47 I SPORTSMAN’S DINNER

Another local restaurant is paid a visit by JT and Dean

49 I TRIATHLON TRAINING

This month it’s a tough 36-mile cycle to Wymondham

50-51 I SCHOOL SPORT

Our focus on the latest achievements from local pupils

52-57 I ROUND-UP

How clubs in the Stamford and Rutland area are getting on

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In Play

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The Suffering Aptly-named endurance event The Suffering returned to Rockingham Castle, near Corby, on November 2 and 3, attracting hundreds of entrants to its three challenging obstacle races. The Suffering 5k obstacle race and its 10k sister race took place on the Saturday, while Sunday was reserved for the Pain and Suffering â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a 10-mile yomp over various demanding obstacles within the grounds of the castle.

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In Play

Oakham take derby honours Oakham triumphed 25-0 at Stamford in their Midlands 2 East North in front of a big crowd for this local derby. Oaksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; solid set piece and dynamic running proved too much for the hosts.

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News

Music at St Martin’s MUSIC AT ST MARTIN’S is celebrating 10 years of its annual series of musical events, and to help ensure another decade of high quality performers continues, it is launching a sponsorship scheme for 2014 and also introducing season tickets, guaranteeing discounted prices. St Martin’s Church is a central pillar of Stamford’s community, both religiously and artistically, and the Music at St Martin’s event brings vital funding to the church, helping to maintain the historic building. The programme of events features a line-up of renowned performers, and will kick off in February with local violinist, 17-year-old Freya Goldmark, who has played at the Cadogan Hall and delivered performances internationally, including in Russia and the Far East. Two further highlights are cellist Jonathan Dormand, playing in June, and also the voices of The Gentleman of St John’s, normally the back row of the St John’s College Choir, Cambridge.

 SEASON TICKETS To guarantee a seat at a discounted price, for the seven main events in the programme and also a series of four Thursday lunchtime recitals, a Double Season Ticket, for two, costs £90, while a Single Season Ticket costs £50. The events run throughout the year from February 22, right through to December 2014.  SPONSORSHIP For larger groups, parties and corporate interests, the Church now offers its sponsorship scheme, which provides six seats inclusive, plus up to 12 at half price, all grouped within the central nave for a prime viewing position, all for £350 for the season. Alternatively, a half sponsorship deal is available at £250, offering four seats with up to eight more at half price. All sponsors will be acknowledged in the printed programme for their chosen event, and also in the brochure for the season, if booked by the end of the month.

Above

Local violinist Freya Goldmark

MEDIEVAL CHRISTMAS

Burghley Park Santa run

CHRISTMAS IS A GOOD time to take stock and reflect on the past year, but how about looking back 700 years, to Christmas medieval style? That’s what you can do at Longthorpe Tower in Peterborough on December 7-8 (10am-5pm). You’ll be able to help Lord and Lady Thorpe decorate the tower and experience an authentic medieval Christmas dinner in the ancient dining hall, and join in with traditional customs such the selection of the Boy Bishop and even taking part in a ‘mummer’s play’, traditionally a mobile performance performed door-to-door or in the town square.  For more details, call Peterborough Museum on 01733 864663 or email longthorpe.tower@ vivacity-peterborough.com

HAPPY, HIGH SPEED (and not so high-speed) Santas return to Burghley Park again for the seventh annual Santa Fun Run on December 15. The annual event is a great opportunity for locals to raise money for their favourite charities and, to-date, more than £100,000 has been raised for good causes. “But I’d have to buy a Santa suit,” we hear you say. Fear not, because one is included in your entry fee to keep, replete with beard and hat, and what’s more, you can bring your dog on a lead (their outfit is optional). Organisers are keen to point out that the Santa Fun Run is prioritised in this order: first, be in a Santa suit; second, have fun, and thirdly, and optionally, run. Walking, jogging, dancing, yomping and skipping are also allowed. Maximum distance is three miles, but nobody’s counting...  For more information and to sign up for the fun run visit www.stamfordsantafunrun.com

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News

CycleWright opens a new store in Stamford CYCLEWRIGHT, THE family-run bike business in Baston, opened its new store in St Paul’s Street, Stamford last month, with a little help from Peterborough United captain, Grant McCann. The open day was deemed a huge success, with a raffle held in support of Children in Need, which raised over £200 within just a few hours of opening their doors. Owner Gemma Wright said: “It’s was great to meet our new customers and be warmly welcomed to Stamford by the town’s cyclists, and raising the money for Children in Need was an added bonus. Now we’re just looking forward to getting settled and start running the kind of successful initiative and events that we run from the Peterborough shop, here in Stamford.” The Baston store sees up to 40 female cyclists on their weekly ladies-only ride-out and the team will be taking a group to the Olympic velodrome in Manchester later this month. “The ladies cycle group has proven very successful,” Gemma added. “Most of the girls like the fact there are no hardcore male cyclists in Lycra to be intimidated by, and they can just enjoy a social, fun group ride-out under their own terms. And as cyclists ourselves, we’re just as excited about the trip to the velodrome. We hope to organise more trips there, so if anyone is interested, then let us know in the shop and we’ll make plans for the next trip.” CycleWright Stamford stocks bikes and accessories for all the family, specialising in the Cube brand. They also have a workshop for all your maintenance needs, and a very striking red penny farthing on display.  Contact: 01780 482899, 40 St Paul’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2BH

Le and above Owners Simon and Gemma celebrate with Peterborough United captain Grant McCann (middle) during CycleWright’s open day

Test yourself on the Lightning Run IF YOU’RE ONE OF THE ADMIRABLE masochists that took part in either the Rat Race or Pain & Suffering obstacle races recently, or you simply want a running challenge minus the icy cold water, then the second annual Conti Lightning Run could be for you. Held further afield, in Walton on Trent in Derbyshire, this 12-hour off-road relay race is set against the clock over a 10km course through the park and woods of Catton Hall. The event is not until May, but this year’s inaugural race was a huge success and sold out quickly; the same is expected for the 2014 event, which is also limited to 700 participants. The undulating nature of sections and the varied terrain make the Lightning a fair challenge for most. You can run in a pair or a team of five or, if you’re as tough as old boots, as a solo runner over the whole 12-hours.  The Conti Lightning Run takes place on Sunday, May 4, at Catton Park, Walton on Trent, Derbyshire. Visit www.contilightningrun.co.uk for more information and details on how to enter.

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Barnsdale nsdale Hall Hotel

Liam is Active’s Frog bike winner A COUPLE OF ISSUES AGO ACTIVE teamed up with Rutland Cycling to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a Frog kids bike, to help launch the ever-popular brand at their Rutland Water, Grafham and Fineshade stores. Well, here he is – seven-year-old Liam O’Brien from Oakham, and doesn’t he look suitably pleased here, on the day he went to collect his prize? Well done Liam. We hope you enjoy your new ride. Frog make bikes ranging from 12inch models for the youngest of cyclists, up to 26inch bikes for older children, all from lightweight, strong tubing and fitted with high quality components, meaning they’ll be long outgrown before they fall apart.

STAMFORD CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL DETAILS REVEALED Stamford town centre is all dressed for the season festivities and Sunday, December 1, sees the ever-popular Christmas Festival take over the streets with its host of traditional cra stalls, independant traders, and gi s galore. The festival centres on Ironmonger Street, High Street and Red Lion Square and is well known for its impressive mix of traders and cra maker selling unique gi s, o en made and sourced locally. The event’s mix of shopping, eating and entertainment draws thousands of visitors from the area and further afield, and this year’s entertainment includes Punch and Judy shows, school choirs, a funfair and of course Santa’s Grotto. The day starts at 10am and culminates at 4.30pm, when Stamford’s Christmas tree in Red Lion Square will be switched on. And of course, parking is free on Sundays.

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News

Fineshade demo day success MOUNTAIN BIKERS FLOCKED To Fineshade Woods at the start of November to try out the many new bikes available at Rutland Cycling’s first MTB demo day. The Saturday event descended upon the courtyard area outside the bike shop at Top Lodge, where all the latest 2014 bikes from Specialized, Trek, Scott, Orange and Whyte were available to test ride, along newly-refurbished trails through Fineshade and Wakerley Wood. Lee Wigginton, rides and events co-ordinator for Rutland Cycling, said: “The interest from the public was second to none – they all enjoyed their experiences riding top notch bikes here at Fineshade. “And to be honest, we love it too as we get to try and enjoy the latest bikes with everyone else, and having the experts from each brand on hand to answer any questions is invaluable to anyone serious about choosing the right bike for them.” More than 70 riders came from across the region, and some from as far away as Telford and Nuneaton, despite the November drizzle. Alan Aldenhoven drove up from St Ives and told Active: “I’ve tried almost every bike I could in the time. I’m knackered , but the wet conditions haven’t made a difference to me; in fact it’s made the course even more of an all-round test for bikes.”  Rutland Cycling will be holding its road bike demo day over the weekend of April 12-13, 2014 at the Whitwell and Grafham stores.

Above Visitors to the Rutland Cycling MTB demo day had the opportunity to try out a host of new mountain bikes and the new trails at Fineshade Wood

Stamford RUFC strip for charity THE BOYS AT STAMFORD RUGBY CLUB have been getting their tackle out to help raise money for a local charity that provides support for carers who look a er terminally ill family members. The A er Umbrage and Stamford RUFC 2014 calendar sees the entire team getting their kit off, in the almost de rigueur calendar style, and pose around the rugby ground and locker room in their birthday suits, with nothing but careful choreography keeping their modesty in tact. A friend of Austin Schwartz, the team’s outside centre, set up the charity A er Umbrage and asked Austin if the team would be the first to help raise money for them. “The calendar came to mind,” Austin said. “Everybody seemed pretty keen when we told them. Apart from Matt Albinson, that is. So we set up the shoot on a Saturday morning at the club. Matt thought he was coming down to hang the first team shirts up and prep the changing rooms for the game that a ernoon. But once he got into it he loved it. To be fair all of the boys loved it.”

And it seems there are probably a fair few shots that were quickly deleted from the photographer’s camera... “One shoot that didn’t work was when we tried to cover Danny MacFaden’s modesty with wine gums. But my dog was there and wouldn’t stop eating the wine gums off of him.”  The calendar is available at the A er Umbrage website: www.a erumbrage.org.uk

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Photography: Rich Beach ///

Noteworthy new business Rich Beach visits an artisan Stamford company making fine bespoke notebooks WHEN A GROUP OF FRIENDS sat around a table for a meeting in August, they couldn’t have imagined some unrelated small talk about their notebooks would be the start of a new business. Hugo Spiegl already runs a successful family bookbinding business in Stamford, and had made his own notebooks for his personal use, unhappy with the quality of the typically imported jotters, such as the ones his friends used in that fateful meeting. Impressed with Hugo’s handiwork, they decided that there was a desire for authentic, premium notebooks, handmade in Stamford, and Hugo had the skills to make it happen. Last month The Stamford Notebook Company launched at the quality market held in the Arts Centre on November 17. Hugo and partner Jo sold a notebook every six minutes until they ran out, and have had a huge response since with some desperate customers heading down to their Gwash Way workshop to get their hands on one before they’ve even reached the shops. When Active visited, a pile of fine ruled paper, from the Tullis Russell paper mill in Fife, was being cut into its octavo-sized pages by bookbinder Shaun. It’s specially selected due to its

quality of minimising feathering, even when using a fountain pen. Behind the stack of paper, another artisan, Lynn, was turning a tower of thick cut boards and sheets of brightly coloured leather into high quality covers. The leather itself is from Pittards of Yeovil and comes in an amazing array of colours and textures, from business-like blacks and browns to shocking pink and yellow, in alligator effect, plain so leather, or even suede. An old wooden tray sat on a table, filled with lead type blocks – how all print was created before computerised typesetting. Now they punch the initials of customers into bespoke notebooks. As a school governor who attends a lot of public meetings Hugo’s books get plenty of use. “I’m list-maker and note-taker,” he tells us, “but I just love making books.” Spiegl Press has been operating for 53 years, started by Hugo’s father Peter, and Hugo’s passion for printing and binding clearly hasn’t diminished over the years. He guides us around the vast workshop filled with old Heidelberg presses, book sewing machines and other impressive analogue contraptions. “I treat this building as my shed,” he says. “I come in here at

the weekend and just experiment with different materials and enjoy myself. Whenever I see a material I question whether it would make a nice book. I get bored with with certain materials and want to keep trying different things.” Currently, Hugo can emboss the notebooks using original lead type, with initials of the customer’s choice in plain, gold or silver. Because they are made individually by hand, for an extra charge they can even be customised inside as well, with names, messages, logos and different coloured marker ribbons and securing elastic. But more bespoke options are on the way it seems. “This is just the beginning. In fact, the possibilities are limitless. I’m talking with an artist in Peterborough whose work lends itself perfectly to book covers, so the next range will have printed covers. And then who knows... We received a roll of material the other day which was wrapped in a beautiful gold paper. I put that aside; that’ll become a notebook very soon!”  Stamford Notebook prices start at £12.95. For details contact Hugo Spiegl: sales@ stamfordnotebooks.co.uk or visit www. stamfordnotebooks.co.uk

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Feature /// Sports awards

RECOGNISING COMMUNITY

SPORTS STARS WINNER JO AUCIELLO SPORTSWOMAN OF THE YEAR

sponsored by Active

RUNNER UP CREEPY CRAWLIES

Rutland team encourage people to lose weight

Creepy Crawlies offers affordable so play

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Feature /// Gear

Kitbag

Stuck for last minute Christmas gifts? Here’s a few suggestions...

Paul Smith notebook

Organise yourself in style with this notebook from famous designer Paul Smith. This large jotter is made in Italy, is filled with high quality lined paper, and features Paul Smith signature page headers and page marker. The cover is embossed with an image of a Mini car painted in the famous Paul Smith coloured stripe design. Price: £19 From: Cavells www.cavells.co.uk 01572 770372

Adidas Brazuca football

This is the official match ball for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, which will be held in Brazil. This is the first ball to be named by fans, who voted in Brazil on the name ‘Brazuca’ which, according to FIFA, “is a word used by Brazilians to describe national pride in the Brazilian way of life”. Price: £TBC From: Rutland Sports, Oakham 01572 722675

Frog 55 children’s bike

Tough enough to handle anything while still light enough to be fun, the Frog 55 is the ideal companion for a growing child thanks to its lightweight aluminium frame. The Frog 55 also features smooth seven-speed Shimano gears, Tektro brakes and an easily-adjustable seatpost to create a bike your child will love. Frog bikes are becoming more and more popular with parents due to their build quality; you even get a five-year warranty on the frame and forks, and two years on all other parts. (Suitable for ages 6-7.) Price: £249.99 From: Rutland Cycling www.rutlandcycling.co.uk 01572 332 032

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Pembrooke Gun Stockings

The Coxmoore Pembrooke Gun Stockings are made with so cotton to avoid that itchy feeling associated with wool socks. Made in England from 90% cotton, with reinforced Nylon heel and toe sections, these high quality socks are of a seamless design for even greater comfort. Available in earthy bronze and aubergine colours, they will compliment almost any shooting suit. Price: £18.99 From: Barnack Country Clothes www.barnack.co.uk 01780 740115

Hand carved mango candle holders

The North Face ETIP gloves

These new gloves from The North Face are perfect for conducting top secret espionage missions, allowing the wearer to operate high-tech touch screens on enemy missile silos without removing a glove. They’re equally useful when out and about in the cold when you need to use your smartphone, thanks to the X-static fingertips on the thumb and forefinger of each glove. Grippy silicone pattern on the palms aid grip so you can happily hang off the side of skyscrapers or keep a confident grip on the dog’s lead. Price: £30 From: Precision Sports, Stamford 01780 762165

These unique ‘z’ shaped candle holders are hand carved from mango wood and are available from a new gi boutique in Stamford where every item is a limited run due to being handmade. Elsewhere in the shop you’ll find picture frames made from root wood or reclaimed teak, stunning carved coffee tables and bench seats, plus an array of cra s and ornaments, all as individual as the different wood grain in each. They seem to have something for everyone. Price: £24.50 From: Natural, 10a Maiden Lane, Stamford

Ronhill LED compatible Vizion Windlite jacket Suede Bowling-style Bag

This lovely bowling bag-style holdall is from Spanish equestrian brand H. Corral, and is fashioned from tough suede material with a leather trim. All H. Corral bags, and other unique items such as jackets, boots and shoes, are handmade. Price: £195 From: Jules by the Riverside, Stamford 01780 755948 www. julesofstamford.co.uk

Be seen and be safe with this running jacket from Ronhill, which features an attachment point on the rear for a Ronhill LED light. The lightweight and breathable fabric also features reflective taping for added visibility, while a microfleece-lined collar and chin guard boosts comfort. A single chest pocket keeps your keys, phone or MP3 player secure. Price: £50 From: Advance Performance www.advanceperformance.co.uk 01733 891111

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1957 LB-Active Full Page December Advert-Final_LB-Active Full Page December Advert 22/11/2013 16:56 Page 1

Le Bistro

Provincial French cuisine served with passion and flare in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere

Enjoy the food and the wine all delivered with excellent service. Completely refurbished, stylish and inviting restaurant. Located in the picturesque village of Wansford. Ideally situated on the A1 between Peterborough and Stamford. Head Chef Luke Marsh is local to the area and already renowned for his great food at The Paper Mills, our sister restaurant, also in the village. Luke has previously worked alongside Michelin starred chef Clive Dixon where he gained great knowledge of modern culinery techniques as well as a passion for using the finest ingredients. He's created a menu which covers many regions of France including some classic dishes we all know and love.

Excellent variety of French cheese on offer which includes Comte, Morbier and Brie de Meaux as well as a completely French wine list that also includes the prestigious Lallier Champagne range which we are very excited about being able to stock. The house of Lallier specialises in producing exceptional Champagnes by sourcing exclusively from vineyards officially classified Grand Cru and Premier Cru. Roger Jordan is the restaurant manager and has spent 24 years in the catering business at a renowned local hotel and is one of the best hosts you'll ever meet. He and his dedicated team look forward to welcoming you. We also cater for small parties so to find out more information or to book call 01780 784111

Opening Times: Lunch:

Tuesday-Saturday, 12pm-2:15pm (Auberge Menu available) Dinner: Tuesday-Thursday, 6pm-9pm Friday & Saturday 6pm-10pm

Like 'Le Bistro, Wansford' on facebook

Our location: Le Bistro, London Road, Wansford, PE8 6JE. To make a reservation call: 01780 784111

Guest column

Gongs for success, Oscars for diving and a BAFTA for buffonery The Sunday Times’ Martin Johnson picks his stars of 2013 he editor has asked me to hand out some gongs for 2013, and I immediately thought of England rugby coach Stuart Lancaster describing the All Blacks as the best team in sport. Which got me thinking... if there’s a best team, then there must be a worst, and after much research the award goes to, you’ve guessed it, the Turks and Caicos Islands football side. This might seem harsh at first glance, because 2013 hasn’t been all that bad a year for them. However, the fact they’ve not lost a game is largely because they’ve not actually played one. The last time, they played was in 2011, losing 10-0 on aggregate to the Bahamas. The Turks and Caicos Islands is a British territory 500 miles from Miami. It’s got a nice climate (Bruce Willis and Rio Ferdinand have holiday homes there) but an awful football team, and looking at the current FIFA rankings, they are officially the worst in the world. It’s the sort of pedigree that reminds me of an assignment I once had covering a World Cup match between Dominica and Antigua, and arrived a few days ahead of the match hoping for an interview with the home team’s manager. So I rang the two numbers listed for the Dominican FA in the FIFA handbook. The first gave the following message: “I’m sorry, the number you have called is out of service. This is a recording.” And the second clicked me on to another recording, offering advice on what to do in the event of a hurricane. Which included, for those of you planning to take a holiday in Dominica, to “try to remain sober.” Eventually, I tracked down the vice-president of the DFA, a Mr Ferdinand Frampton, who kindly granted me an interview. Albeit interrupted by several phone calls, one of which was from the groundsman informing him that someone had nicked the goalposts. I recount this story in order to offer you some idea of just how bad a team the Turks and Caicos Islands must be. Given that Dominica’s FIFA world ranking is currently 169th, which is a dizzy 38 places ahead of the T&C Islands propping up the table in 207th position. Maybe they could persuade Sir Alex Ferguson to come out of retirement and manage them, although that would mean Sir Alex having to decline my second award – most sorely missed sporting figure. Who can claim that football is not all the poorer for being deprived of the sight of a purple faced, gum chewing Scotsman prowling up and down the touchline?

David Moyes might not be his equal as a manager, but at least Moyes knows how to deport himself in public, and shows no inclination at all to hector and bully referees and reporters. Sir Alex was the man who signed a footballer by the name of Ashley Young, who was on my short list for the award of buffoon of the year. Young was signed, or so it would appear, for his terrific ability to receive a pass inside a penalty area, and then hurl himself through the air as though he’s just been shot from a circus cannon. This is not, of course, a trait unique to Young, simply an acknowledgement that he’s better at it than most. Mostly when he falls over, the referee awards a penalty, although if I was in charge of football I would make it mandatory for all players falling in apparent agony to be driven to A&E and made to wait in a draughty corridor for four hours until examined by a doctor. That’d cure them. However, while Young was a serious contender for buffoon of the year, my award goes, after careful deliberation, to the chairman of the German Football Association. Many of you will have seen a goal awarded to Bayer Leverkeusen against Hoffenheim this season, when the ball clearly went through a hole in the side netting. This was referred to the German FA for adjudication, and the president offered the following verdict. “The basis for opposition was unverifiable. It was an indisputable factual decision by the referee.” So it’s an open and shut case, really, in that anyone who can manage to relegate Sepp Blatter to second in the list of football’s most ludicrous administrators is a shoo-in for buffoon of the year. Quote of the year was a little harder to decide, and I was close to giving the award to Roger Federer, who responded to a reporter suggesting that he’d not really had a great 2013 with “where were you when I was playing very well in Australia? Under a rock?” Not so much that it was a particularly witty put-down, but for being the first recorded case of Federer saying something vaguely interesting. Lance Armstrong also came close for “I have suffered massive personal loss of wealth by being singled out by the US Anti-Doping agency”, which for a cheat with a fortune of £80 million had me reaching for the Kleenex, but in the end I gave quote of the year to Colin Montgomerie. “To win the Order of Merit is everything to a golfer,” said Monty. “It’s the league championship. The majors I feel are the FA Cup. If you asked anybody what they would prefer to win, they would say the league.” Now then, let me think. Which golfer won the Order of Merit eight times, and never managed to win a single major? The name escapes me for the moment...

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Feature /// Veteransâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; rugby

Above and below

SRUFC Vetsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Nigel Stanford (above) exploits a gap in the Cambridge defence. The squad pose for a team photo while on tour in Gibraltar

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IT DOESN’T GET

VETTER THAN THIS

Jeremy Beswick on the eccentric, fun-loving, heavy drinking and occasionally brutal world of veterans’ rugby ///

Photography: Pip Warters

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Feature /// Veterans’ rugby

odern, professional rugby union is a wonderful sport. Gladiatorial combat between players whose skills have been honed by relentless practice, with fitness levels that have never been higher, strength no greater and physical bulk no weightier. Eighteen stone forwards who run 100 metres in 11 seconds; a terrifying prospect if you’re the unfortunate defender – unless you happen to be eighteen stone too. This arms race of athleticism, speed and weight has resulted in strict fitness regimes, the application of sports science, (legal) dietary supplements and extreme abstemiousness. The best recent illustration was Wales’ win over England for the Six Nations title. Only one player in their team was under 14 stone whereas, the last time the fixture was played for the same prize, Wales had only one player over 14 stone. The fitness levels and increase in player size gradually, but inevitably, filter down to local rugby too. However, those of us of a certain age sometimes look back fondly to another sport, playable by all shapes and sizes and almost unrecognisable from today’s counterpart - the amateur rugby of our youth. It was played only for the love of the game and with comradeship that existed not only within teams but between teams. After knocking lumps off each other for 80 minutes all was always well in the bar, where copious beer was shared and you laughed with

the ‘enemy’ bound by a love of the game. There’s no putting the clock back, but if you’re nostalgic for those days then I’m glad to say they’re not gone forever but are to be found in the veteran rugby scene which ﬂourishes all around us. Here a few pints afterwards are an integral part of the day with the man of the match usually ﬁned by having to down a pint in one for his trouble. As for athleticism, Stamford Vets skipper Steve Roberts sums it up as “where traditional standards of uselessness still prevail”. And, as we can infer from that, it’s also true when he says that “what we lack in speed we make up in banter”. Many local clubs have active vets’ sides. Apart from Stamford there are Deepings, Kesteven, Market Harborough, Spalding, Stuarts & Lloyds, Oundle and Peterborough, to name but a few. That feeling of comradeship is intense, many participants having played for the same side since the under-8s, and therefore faced the same opposing players for 30-40 years too. Pip Warters, also of Stamford, puts it well: “My best mates now are the ones I played with when I was seven.” Getting a game is the most important thing, more than winning or even who you play for. If one side is short they’ll often be leant players by the opposition and, as loose head prop and Deepings’ captain Denham Hughes says: “There’s nothing funnier or more satisfying than knocking one of your own on to their backside.” The selection of under-age players is strictly frowned upon. Spalding, however, once found

Below and bottom

The ‘Gin Bottle’ Trophy, contested annually between Stamford and Peterborough. The SRUFC Vets soak up some culture during a tour to Gibraltar

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Feature /// Veterans’ rugby This picture and right

SRUFC Vets take a break to watch the opposition during a Triangular tournament in Gibraltar. Rupert Gibson breaks the gain line

‘TEN YEARS AGO, WE WONDERED IF THE CLUB WOULD SURVIVE. NOW, WE HAVE 300 KIDS HERE EVERY SUNDAY.’ themselves eight players short and sent in six who were currently playing for the British Forces side. “They looked about twelve to me” said Steve. Each team has its own reputation. Oundle, for example, are said to be “too posh to play away from home” whereas Kesteven have centres and a second row that are the same size – huge. Inevitably, they’re all very good at refereeing! Here you’ll find characters such as Foggy ‘Lord’ Gilman “who still doesn’t have any idea about the rules after 40 years”, No-neck McLaren “who eats props for breakfast”, Phil ‘Doc’ Vaughan and Paul ‘Stimmers’ Stimpson. Anyone over 35 is welcome but a sense of humour and a sturdy liver are obligatory. Or turn up to watch – there are regularly 30 to 50 spectators at a match and you’ll be able to get within a few feet of the action. Notwithstanding the lack of a “win at all costs” mentality the play is fiercely contested – every game is a derby after all – and the occasional trading of blows is not unknown. “If anything it’s more prevalent now than when we were younger,” says Steve. “I think it’s because we’re too slow to run away.” One particularly feisty encounter is the annual Gin Bottle match between Stamford and Peterborough in September. The losers fill the bottle and no-one leaves until it’s empty. It’s a big bottle, by the way, and I’m glad to report that it’s Peterborough who’ve needed the deep pockets recently. Of course, the carnage gets really serious when the guys go on tour. Swansea this year for Deepings, and Stamford have just returned from Gibraltar, where it was their proud boast to have beaten the Spanish national side. What goes on

tour stays on tour, but Pip described Gibraltar as “the cheapest place in the world to drink” and quotas for consumption are strictly adhered to, even though there are some strange anomalies such as “a rum before 9am counts as three”. Denham conﬁrms Deepings tours are uncannily similar, with those guilty of various misdemeanours (imagined or not) tried by a kangaroo court at which “there is no defence” and ﬁnes consisting of the consumption of various items and/or the wearing of inappropriate apparel for the rest of the day. And then of course there’s the singing.....

Although the quality of the rugby is surprisingly high, and the passages of play often compelling and skilful, I’m aware that this may all sound to some of you like a bunch of nostalgic middle-aged men, who should know better, behaving like overgrown schoolboys and indulging in excess. To which my only response has to be “oh yes we are”. Just wish I wasn’t past it now. See you in the clubhouse. Cheers! // Fixtures and contact details for all clubs can be found at www.pitchero.com/sports/rugby-union

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Feature /// Hunting

A HUNTING LIFE

Since the fox hunting ban, the sport has enjoyed a remarkable revival. Julia Dungworth explains its appeal ///

Photography: Nico Morgan

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Feature /// Hunting

unting has many romantic notions – the union between man and horse in the beauty of nature’s setting, where mounted men and women follow and watch the timeless drama of the hunter and the hunted. I have spent many mornings with my cheeks glowing rosy red from the wind, watching the sun rise over England’s finest countryside as the hounds work their way through a covert, as my face warms from the steam rising. It is a crescendo of sights and sounds that thrills you beyond imagination. “Fox hunting provides those fleeting moments of total abandonment – of wind in your hair, bugs in your teeth kind of living. At its best; it is totally out of control. Hounds screaming, hooves thundering, the horn is blasting as you race and jump across country to die for, often in weather not fit for man or beast. It is the original extreme sport and the sport of the country generations since the beginning of time.” An exert from “Whipper-in”, by Dennis J. Foster Of course, that’s not always the image this sport conveys to everyone. Its opponents see it as elitist and, before the ban, cruel. Whatever your position on the latter point, the former just isn’t the case. Hunting attracts everybody who loves the countryside, and everybody who loves horses. You don’t have to be lord of the manor.

Top and above

The Cottesmore Hunt in full cry during its meet at Tilton on the Hill in early November

Hunting has changed a lot since the new laws were passed in 2004. With effect from 2005, the hunting of wild mammals (notably foxes, deer, hares and mink) with dogs in England and Wales was banned; although the Act does not cover the use of flushing out an unidentified wild mammal, nor does it affect drag hunting, where hounds are trained to follow an artificial scent. Most hunts now follow the aforementioned artificial scent laid by a mounted hunt helper or use hounds to flush quarry to a bird of prey. On the equestrian side, hunting has for many years has been a brilliant way of educating

horses for all disciplines and is renowned for helping the naughty ones. Many event riders and show jumpers will also tell you many tales of how they have learnt most of their early horsemanship skills, and certainly their stickability, from the hunting field. It is also great fun for children, with a great social scene behind most of the hunts, and many using it to help with networking, too. Many people go to watch the hounds work, on foot or horse, and to be honest most people go because they just love it. In what to many was counter-intuitive, hunting since 2004 has taken an upward turn as many landowners and non-hunting folk took to it to help secure its future, as they recognised its benefits to the countryside. They too got hooked and so now there are more people out than ever. Now, hunts actively encourage new folk to their field and often run Pony Club or newcomer days, the details of which you can often find on their websites. Please note though, your local hunt may not display all dates on its website due to the few that still don’t approve. So you will need to ring the hunt secretary, explain you have never been before, and they will often assign you a mentor/ nannie for the day to explain how it all works and to make sure you enjoy your day out. The secretary will also tell you much you will need to pay. This can range from £30-£150 depending on the day, and there are often concessions for students. I would suggest that a big or ‘high day’ wouldn’t be recommended for

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Feature /// Hunting

‘THE HUNT MEET MORE OFTEN RESEMBLES A DRINKS PARTY THAN ANYTHING ELSE’

a first timer. There are three main things to consider when you go out hunting: safety, manners and turnout; the first obviously being the most important. Horses are notoriously stronger when following, so correctly fitting tack and brakes are essential. If your horse is young or has never been before it is traditional to wear a green ribbon in their tail, or a red one if your horse is likely to kick, as it is considered the height of bad manners to kick someone, and if you kick a hound you will be sent home. You may think it a little eccentric to want to polish your pony to perfection then gallop round muddy fields in the rain, but good turnout shows respect for the landowners whom generously let us hoon round their fields, and also the skill and hard work of the hunt staff. The hunt meet more often resembles a drinks party than anything else. You will be expected to plait your stead and you should always have clean tack. Don’t have any grand ideas about wearing red jackets either. You will need to wear either black or navy coat with fawn/beige breeches, black boots, hunting stock and pin, all spotlessly clean or, if you are Pony Club or under 18, then you can wear tweed/rat catcher with your pony club tie. Hair nets are a must for the ladies, with a neat bobble – no wild colours

Above

Classic scenes which have gone unchanged for generations: horses and hounds in full flight and members of the hunt in red jackets. It’s easy for you to get involved, too

HUNTING LANGUAGE ETIQUETTE Good morning - Hey, how you doing! (Say this to everyone and anyone that looks your way) Cap - This is the amount that you pay to the hunt secretary The field – This is you and the group of followers Country – The land on which you hunt Hold hard – Stop Scent – The smell the hounds will follow Gate please – Shut the gate! Hole on the le /right – look out Hounds speaking – Barking/woofing, normally when they have scent Full cry – Hounds have a scent and we’re off at top speed Covert – Woods or patches of trees Good night - Good bye, I’m going home. (You say this even if its 1pm so people don’t think you are lost)

please or big earrings. Manners and hunting etiquette are what most people will be fretting about, but hunting folk are the friendliest, well-mannered people and it is customary to talk to anyone you are stood next to. Always thank people, thank car drivers, people who open gates, people who let you go first, basically thank anyone even if they just standing still while you trot by. As is tradition, always address the masters as “Sir/Madam” (they are normally the ones in the red coats) even if you know them. When mounted they will always have the right of way, and sometimes you will have to turn around and the field will part like Moses parting the seas so that the front will become the back. Never overtake your field master and don’t go anywhere that they haven’t told you to. If it sounds daunting, then don’t worry – it isn’t. It’s no different to joining any other club, where it takes a little time to get used to the foibles, traditions and routines of each band of merry men and women. Perhaps due to the press that hunting has received in recent years, its rules seem more starchy than most, but when you are flying across fields, adrenaline pumping and the sun is blazing on a cold winter’s morning, you will realise this really is one of the great British sporting pastimes.

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Feature /// Festive fitness

THE 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS 1} WORK UP A SWEAT FOR 20 MINUTES A DAY

Get prepared for the holiday season: step up your exercise regime and reduce your carbohydrate intake a couple of weeks before the Christmas break. And during the festive period, work up a sweat every day for 20 minutes. If you are sweating, you are burning calories. Don’t get too hung up on your weight and ﬁtness, as you can always get back on track in the new year, but a little preparation beforehand will make light work of the year ahead of you! Judith Ewing, personal trainer www.judithewingﬁtness.com

Looking for some simple, effective ways to stay fit and healthy over the festive period? Here’s some advice from local experts Words: Steve Moody

2} TRY WALKING THE NORDIC WAY

Nordic walking is walking with lightweight poles and originally came from Finland. But there is a speciﬁc technique to be learned to get the biggest beneﬁt out of it. A set of poles and good walking shoes are the only investments, plus a little bit of coaching to help imprint the correct movements and you’re ready to go. Nordic walking crosses the boundaries of age and agility as well: from seniors to sportsmen and women rehabbing from injury. It’s ideal for those who don’t like the gym and would rather be outdoors and breathing in fresh air. It burns calories and using the upper body, by planting and swinging the poles, exercises 90% of body muscle. Get Lost in Rutland offers free tasters and there are regular walks three times a week. Get Lost in Rutland, 01572 868712.

3} EAT BETTER

Eat a hearty protein-based breakfast to curb those cravings, so heavy on the scrambled eggs and wholemeal toast, lighter on the fried egg and bacon. Keep plenty of chilled water in the fridge and stay hydrated (another great way to kill the cravings!). Avoid the sugar-ﬁlled highly processed food; take time to cook good quality meals using fresh unprocessed foods. Fill the snack bowls with nuts and dried fruit instead of chocolates Carls Simcock, personal trainer

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Feature /// Festive fitness

4} MAKE YOUR SKIN GLOW WITH A FACIAL

Why not try one of Body & Soul’s facial to brighten and tone the skin? For the many parties and functions happening in the countdown to christmas, Christine Freimuth and salon manager Gill Booth offer luxury spa manicures and pedicures, along with the ever popular CND Shellac nail overlays. As well as the Body Ultimate Facial Toning System, a treatment course of Microdermabrasion can reduce fine lines, wrinkles and leaves the skin refreshed and rejuvenated. Mention Active when you make your appointment, and you’ll get 10% off your first treatment. Body & Soul, Oakham, 01572 771071 Swimming has lots of health benefits and is an ideal activity for all ages, looking for a quick burst of exercise over Christmas. It strengthens the heart and lungs, improves strength and flexibility and also has no impact on the joints, as well as toning up legs, back, bottom, arms, stomach and shoulders all in one activity. It’s a great calorie burner too, with 30 minutes of swimming burning up to 300 calories. Barnsdale Pool, 01572 771314

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5} GO FOR A SWIM

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6} GET TO A PILATES CLASS

Pilates creates a lean, toned body, develops a flat stomach, smaller waist and fantastic posture without sweating! It’s also used to rehabilitate people with injuries particularly those with spinal injury or back pain. You gain strength, flexibility, core stability and posture benefits from regularly applying the correct techniques. Pilates is adaptable to many fitness levels and needs. So whatever your age or ability the foundations of pilates can apply to you. Angela Bradshaw, A2B, a2bpilates@me.com

7} TIME FOR A RUN?

Running uses more energy than many other forms of exercise, so in half an hour you can burn off lots of xmas excess. An average male would burn 430 calories running for 30 minutes at a speed of 10 minutes per mile, and an average female would burn 360 calories at the same pace! Running regularly will help your body composition change, you will lose fat and your lean muscle tissue will build up. It’s good for your mind too. The ‘runners high’ endorphins can be released during and after can make us feel exhilarated and will often last for the next few hours. If you need any help starting out TriCoach can come up with tailored programmes. Jon Sheehan, TriCoach tricoach3info@gmail.com

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This one treatment has two actions: The lift action has an immediate and discreet effect giving results which can be seen instantly and then it gives a regenerative action for gradual and natural results by restoring lost collagen to add more defination to your features, while maintaining volume over time. The neck, cheeks and jowls can be restored immediately with a 30 – 60 minute procedure with no downtime. There are no incisions and the components are all entirely re-absorbable. This amazing technique can only be performed by either a surgeon or doctor - Miss Butt is a consultant surgeon who is exceptionally highly qualified to undertake this procedure. This procedure has been used for many years in various medical fields and especially in reconstructive and aesthetic surgery. It can be carried out in her clinics, has long lasting results and can be used as a stand alone treatment or in conjunction with dermal fillers and injectables for other facial lines. Miss Butt will be happy to give a personal tailor made treatment for your face at a consultation.

A2B Pilates LEVEL 3 DIPLOMA IN TEACHING PILATES Pilates is a form of exercise developed by Joseph Pilates and offers an amazing method of exercise that develops a lean toned body without sweating! Great for both men and women of all ages and ability. JANUARY 2014 CLASSES Stamford ..........Starts 13th Jan .......11-12 Mon Nassington .......Starts 13th Jan .......... 7-8 Mon Laxton .............Starts 8th Jan ....7.30-8.30 Wed Hampton Vale ...Starts 10th Jan ......... 10-11 Fri Group classes or private tuition available. For further information contact Angela on Tel: 01832 275390 • Mob: 07710 780854 Email: a2bpilates@me.com

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Feature /// Festive fitness body bufﬁng to get the circulation going and slough off dry skin cells, so that moisturiser can be absorbed into the skin more efﬁciently. Bodymatters are offering a complimentary Face Mapping skin analysis where they can tell you what your skin needs and give you some samples to take home and try. Bodymatters, Westside Gym, Stamford 01780 270002

CHRIS ROUT / ALAMY

8} TRY REFLEXOLOGY

Reflexology can relax and de-stress you when those pressures and excesses of the holidays get too much. It works like this: when an area is stimulated using pressure with the thumbs and fingers a signal is sent through the nervous system to the brain. The brain acts on these ‘signals’ and sends messages to the internal organs causing them to adjust levels of fuel and oxygen until the motor system allows the body’s overall tone or tension to operate at a lower stress level. It is in this deeply relaxed state that reflexology can encourage the body to help with lymphatic drainage, elimination of waste products and toxins, stimulate nerve endings and bring stress levels under control. Rutland & Stamford Reflexology, Oakham 01572 811504

12} SLEEP WELL

Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial to staying healthy. In your diary, block off one or two evenings each week during the party season for an early night – and it could help you lose weight, according to a study of nurses. Those who regularly had a good night’s sleep were slimmer and had a lower body mass index (BMI) than short sleepers, it found.

9} JOIN A CYCLING GROUP

Getting out and about in Rutland on your bike will blow the cobwebs away. And Kerry Rough from Rutland Cycling reckons it is so much easier and more pleasant to be cycling with other people in a club. Many of them will be out between Christmas and new year. The miles just end up ticking on by and near enough each ride always ends up with a huge slice of cake and hot chocolate! It’s a great way of making friends and meeting people, and generally the training sessions will be at a time that suits you. You will end up with similar minded people and this can only be to your beneﬁt as it make it easier to and commit to sessions, helping with your motivation, even if the weather is miserable! For advice, visit Rutland Cycling www.rutlandcycling.com

10} STRETCH YOUR ANKLES

While all over body conditioning and flexibility can reduce incidence of injury, one of the most common problems is a reduced range of ankle motion. This is often caused by a tightness in the calf muscle and this tightness can cause a number of biomechanical compensations to occur; which can be a precursor to picking up a injury, halting your get fit plans before they even begin. So when you’re watching TV, grab a towel, sit on the floor with your legs straight, ankles together, loop a towel under your feet and hold on to each end. Now lean back and gently pull, and hold for 30 seconds. Repeat three times and daily. You should feel the stretch but not pain. This is a good starter exercise as it’s non-weight bearing and simple to do. Simon Miles, Walk 4 Miles walk4miles.sm@gmail.com

11} MOISTURISE!

Your skin suffers over Christmas, with the combination of central heating, cold weather, rain, and the change in eating and drinking habits. Skin gets dehydrated and tight and can sometimes be quite sensitive. It’s important keep up a skin regime including

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Feature /// Health and Wellness

Health and Wellness

Everything a woman needs to be fit, healthy and fantastic. Edited by Sandie Hurford

SMOOTH SECRETS Giselle Brannan, from Chameleon, which has boutiques in Stamford and Oakham, recommends shapewear like the Confidence by Implicite range pictured here. “We have moved on a long way from Bridget Jones-style knickers,” she says. “The improvement in textiles means we can offer all manner of bodies, slips and dresses – some of which now co-ordinate with our sexy lingerie. What’s more, they are comfortable to wear and very versatile under all sorts of outfits. Bring your dresses with you and come and see what a difference shapewear can make for your confidence. We won’t let you leave without looking and feeling great.”

TIP-TO-TOE GROOMING ■ Natasha Parker, owner of hair and beauty

salon Asembo in St Leonards Street, Stamford, recommends Smooth Lock Blowdry for the cold, damp weather to lock in frizz-free smoothness for up to 10 shampoos (£40 – takes 1hr). And she says the salon’s Mii spray tan gives an instant natural-looking golden glow for party-bare shoulders. “Created with marine minerals, our tanning collection has taken the nourishing benefits of coral seaweed and coastal flowers to replenish your skin’s natural minerals, leaving it sublimely so so that your tan can develop beautifully,” she adds.

■ Annie Elkins, spa manager at Barnsdale Hall Hotel, recommends GELeration nails to see you through the party season. Available in hundreds of shades, GELeration delivers a high-shine, chip-free finish for up to three weeks and is designed to continue to protect the natural nail – from application, to wear and soak-off removal. “It’s a perfect treatment to have over the festive period as the GELeration polish will see you through the New Year celebrations too,” says Annie.

uty of Jessica th the strength of a gel!

shades, GELeration delivers a high ree weeks. Working alongside the esigned to continue to protect the wear and soak-off removal. Loved sults and for standing up to their

ail to be impressed.

U MJHIU JNNFEJBUF H

The perfect party dress for your shape There’s definitely one out there – follow our tips to find yours

HE LITTLE BLACK DRESS has been a mainstay in our fashion lexicon since Audrey Hepburn famously donned Givenchy in Breakfast At Tiffany’s. A little black dress is an evening or cocktail dress, cut simply and often quite short. Fashion historians ascribe its origins to the 1920s designs of Coco Chanel and Jean Patou, intended to be long-lasting, versatile, affordable, accessible to the widest market possible and in a neutral colour. Its ubiquity is such that it is often simply referred to simply as the LBD. The LBD is considered essential to a complete wardrobe by many women and fashion observers, who believe it a ‘rule of fashion’ that every woman should own a simple, elegant black dress that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion: for example, worn

Hair Removal Waxing Eye Brow Waxing Upper Lip Chin

with a jacket and pumps for daytime business wear or with more ornate jewellery and accessories for evening. However you wear it, look your best in a dress that shows off your shape – whether tall or petite, curvy or straight, there’s a perfect LBD out there for you. Susie Archer is founder of Arch Label Agency, the dress agency in St Paul’s Street, Stamford, offering pre-owned top-quality designer labels at a fraction of the original price. The agency was featured recently at number One in The Times’ ‘six of the best’ list of where to ﬁnd true bargains, some of which are pictured below. Susie says: “It is quite unusual to come across a woman who is completely happy with her body shape – we all have no-show areas! Here is a smoke-and-mirrors guide to party dressing to make sure you make the most of those assets.”

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4 0 D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 ///

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PEAR SHAPE

(slim neck and arms with narrow shoulders; rounded hips and legs that are wider than your upper half) ■ An A-line dress shape is good as it accentuates waists while slimming hips. ■ Avoid tapered or straight-leg trousers – instead, opt for palazzo pants or flares and balance with a fitted top. ■ A halter dress shows off your shoulders, creating the illusion of a more balanced shape. The width of your hips will seem smaller and in better proportion to your body. ■ Bring focus to your top half to help balance proportions and add a statement necklace. ■ Show off your upper body in strapless styles, while the bottom half of the dress should skim the body, disguising heavier hips. ■ A fitted top will flatter your slim waistline.

PETITE

(short and thin with a small-scale bone structure) ■ Wearing a different colour on your top to your bottom will cut you in half so try a uniform colour to elongate. ■ Knee-length or mini will look better than mid-calf which will swamp you. ■ Heels will help. ■ Avoid long lengths as they may also swamp – knee-length is perfect. ■ The clean, elongated shape of a sheath dress helps you look taller and leaner – even more so if you choose one that hits just above or in the middle of your knee (never longer) to play up the narrowest part of your leg. ■ Stick to a sheath dress with a clean, simple shape.

ATHLETIC/STRAIGHT

■ Bias-cut dresses give the illusion of curves. ■ Diagonal stripes are also good for creating curves, keep prints small. ■ When looking for a dress that can create the illusion of curves, a little volume and deﬁned proportions are essential. ■ Wear dresses that ﬂatter and add curves with texture and shape. ■ Create a waist with peplum or empire-waist styles.

APPLE SHAPE

(slim legs and hips with a curvy bust and tummy) ■ Your squarer torso lacks a defined waistline, so you have to fake it with fashion. A shirred dress does so perfectly. The gathering effect pulls in the waistline, causing it to appear slimmer than your top and bottom halves. ■ Look for dresses that help define your waist. ■ If you’re trying to tame a tummy, the different parts of a fit-and-flare dress add up to a smart choice. The tailored top portion will accent your

Photo: Stockbyte

(slim and straight up and down with few curves)

rib cage (typically the smallest part of a woman’s frame), while the skirt (that ﬂares out from the belly button) lends the illusion of curves to your lower half.

■ Accentuate your shape with body-conscious dresses and anything with a structured bodice. ■ Show off your waist with a ruched dress.

HOURGLASS/CURVY

(curvy with a voluptuous bust and hips)

(narrow waist with a wider chest and hips) ■ Accentuate your middle with a V-neck dress to open up the chest area and draw the eye downward, making the waist appear narrower. ■ Look for built-in darts and panels, which help deﬁne your ﬁgure and keep you in place throughout the evening. ■ Show off your bust with asymmetrical necklines and sleek waistlines or a plunging V-neck dress. ■ Look for dresses that draw attention to your waist with oversized detailing – pleats, embroidery or rocker chic studs. Don’t shy away from a larger-than-life scale.

PLUS SIZE

■ Choose tailored and ﬁtted in ﬂuid fabrics to show off those curves. ■ Avoid matte fabrics such as suede/velvet. ■ Keep prints to a minimum. ■ A wrap dress looks good on practically every body type, but especially this one. The structure of the dress hugs the slimmer areas of the body (your shoulders and waist) and remains looser around the lower half. ■ Look for dresses that accentuate your waist and glide over curves and emphasize your shape with a cinched waistline. ■ Belt your look and pull attention to your upper body with a pretty neckline.

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Feature /// Great walks

Beautiful Belton This walk has some of Rutland’s best views and will be an excellent way to burn off some of those festive excess calories, as Will Hetherington discovers //

Photography: Will Hetherington

THE ROUTE

Park near College Farm Lane and take this peaceful road north out of the village. It only leads to three farms so there is hardly any trafﬁc. As the road turns to the west near its end, the bridleway branches off to the right. If it’s been raining recently it will be quite muddy on this stretch as the path continues up the hill, so it’s a good way to get warm and get the blood pumping. When you reach the top of the hill you can get your breath back whilst enjoying the glorious views of the sweeping countryside to the south. Rutland is a beautiful county, but there are not too many better views than this! Once you have recovered from the ascent, start out on the long easy stroll east along the ridgeway to Ridlington, enjoying ﬁne views on either side and easy conditions underfoot. For the full seven miles keep going until you get to Ridlington,

passing through Wills Farm on the way. You will pass two footpaths heading south down to Belton and, if you are in a rush or just want to take a shortcut, then either of these are perfect. But for the full effect of this appetite-inducing walk keep going into Ridlington. Stay on the road as it takes one 90-degree turn to the right and then the bridleway is obvious as the road turns left. Head down the bridleway and take the right turn which comes up immediately. The walk changes character from here as you head downhill and brieﬂy into the woods. The path crosses a handy stream for the dog to have a swim and a drink then heads uphill out of the woods. The views are still impressive but rather than looking down you will be looking up to Park Farm and the hills surrounding it. Once Park Farm is behind you there is one more climb before Belton hoves into view – a

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TOP STAT

nd sits on a Belton in Rutla t above sea hillside 500 fee area of 1,024 an s ha d an el lev ’s church dates ter Pe St . res ac century, with back to the 13th it going even some parts of further back.

rather spectacular view and one which provides the necessary visual stimulus to finish the walk in style. And it really is a satisfying finish, as the path heads downhill, through a hedgerow and across another stream over a brand new wooden bridge, before heading into the village via a pretty little paddock. After seven miles up and down you will have earned a pint and a bite to eat, and the charming market square in Uppingham, just five minutes drive away, will provide all you need in Don Paddy’s, the Lake Isle restaurant, the Vaults pub or the Falcon Hotel. A perfect end to this very festive walk. Merry Christmas!

Difficulty rating (out of five)

Le and below

This walk is mainly farmland based, so there’s plenty of opportunity for your pooch to run free. Gorgeous village scenes and rolling countryside abound

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION Where to park North of the church in Belton-inRutland and as close as you can to College Farm Lane. Distance and time Seven miles/two and a half hours. Highlights The rolling countryside around here is visually spectacular and it’s an invigorating walk. Peaceful Belton, with its mixture of grand old houses and smaller terraced cottages, makes for a fitting start and finish point.

Lowlights If there has been a lot of rain the bridleways can be very muddy which means you get even more exercise walking up them! There is a bit of a shortage of footpath signs at times, so you will need an OS map to make sure you don’t have to do any u-turns. Refreshments The Sun in Belton, which doesn’t open during the day. Or just down the road there are a number of good options in Uppingham, from Don Paddy’s to The Falcon and the

Lake Isle. Or the Blue Ball at Braunston and the King’s Arms at Wing are both excellent village pubs nearby. The pooch perspective Mostly arable fields means there is plenty of scope for adventure off the lead, although on hot days in the summer there might be a shortage of water.

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Feature /// Puppy training

Training times

PREPARING YOUR PUPPY to become the pet you have dreamed of begins from the moment you bring your him or her home, and every interaction affects how they learn. Developing your own understanding of dogs and practical handling skills isn’t always instinctive and it is therefore important for you to learn how to become a good teacher for your puppy. Here are ﬁve reasons why teaching your puppy to play with toys and introducing regular play sessions throughout the day is important for their well-being and development.

1} IT BUILDS A BOND WITH HUMANS

Learning how to play with your puppy might be a surprising thing to hear, but dogs don’t come pre-programmed to play human games with toys. Those who learn from an early age how to play with humans learn to see you as a source of fun and worth being around. This then translates into that lovely moment when you’re out and your dog would rather stay with you than run off, and that saves a lot of stress chasing errant dogs all over the countryside! If you are to build a wonderful bond of affection with your dog, spending time having fun is fundamental.

2} LEARN ACCEPTABLE PLAY BITING

Young puppies like soft toys they can bite into, and having access to these

kinds of toys will offer a good outlet for play biting. Play biting (or mouthing) is a completely natural behaviour that puppies need to be able to do but they also need to learn how to use their mouth appropriately with humans. A puppy that has been used to mouthing their littermates now has to learn that this is no longer acceptable with human skin. It’s a difﬁcult message to teach and toys play an essential role. Spending time, each day, allowing puppies to interact with suitable toys and actively encouraging the transfer of biting onto them rather than skin or clothing is the ﬁrst step. The process will be sped up when adding lots of praise just as the puppy’s mouth bites on the toy. Gradually, from daily use of toys and good guidance from humans, a puppy learns to control its mouth.

You’ve bought your puppy... and now the fun really begins. Trainer Bobs Broadbent explains how to use toys and playtime to get off to a good start

3} USE UP EXTRA ENERGY

Puppies are limited with the amount of exercise they can do, yet physical and mental nourishment is essential, especially as your puppy grows. Insufﬁcient exercise can result in a bored, discontented puppy with more energy than he knows what to do with. Such excess energy can be the cause of unwanted behaviours as the puppy ﬁnds alternative outlets for them. Several play sessions given at various times throughout the day can make a marked difference and result in a dog that is well-adjusted, contented and looking forward to the next playtime.

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Teaching your puppy to play with toys and introducing regular play sessions is important for their well-being and development

4} CHANNEL NATURAL INSTINCTS

Games are also an outlet for natural hunting instincts. Channeling this desire into acceptable behaviour can make a real positive impact on pet dogs that were designed to search, hunt or chase. Something to think about whatever the breed you select but especially if you have brought home a gun dog, hound or terrier puppy. Providing the right kind of toys and introducing ‘playtime’ that is always fun into a puppy’s daily routine will help them to have a lifelong love of playing with toys and interacting with humans. This will pay dividends in all aspects of obedience training throughout their life.

5} GIVES FUN REWARDS AND LIFELONG PLEASURE

Once your puppy knows just how much fun games with toys can be you can use the toys themselves as a reward for training exercises, particularly recall. Having plenty of play will give a clear picture of the kind of games and toys your puppy likes most and this will teach you what you can use to motivate your puppy so they enjoy learning new exercises. Withholding a favourite toy can give the toy a higher value, so it becomes more rewarding and it makes coming back to you even more exciting. Working dogs know all about having a toy as a reward. You’ve probably seen how they are often given a tennis ball or toy to play with after a successful ﬁnd and this says ‘good job done!” and keeps them motivated to do their work again.

POINTERS FOR SUCCESSFUL PLAYTIME

• Have a mixed bag of toys with different materials and sounds. • Have two sets of toys – one for your dog and one for you. • Puppy’s toys: Rotate your puppy’s toys each day so they are different and give three or four fresh toys daily • Your toys: Keep these in a safe place away from your puppy and bring them out for playtime sessions. Afterwards, put them away out of your puppy’s reach. This keeps the toys exciting. • Have several ﬁve-minute play sessions each day with young puppies. • Gradually increase these in length to 15 minutes and reduce to between three and four times each day. • Once your puppy has learned basic obedience commands (such as sit, down, stand, wait, etc) use the toy as a reward following a good response. • The best way to get a toy back from a puppy is to exchange with a tasty titbit so your puppy learns it is rewarding to give up something he has, even if it is a favourite toy. • Always keep play fun for you and your puppy.

A six week training & socialisation course tailored specially for vaccinated puppies up to 20 weeks of age.

Bobs Broadbent Bobs is a professional dog trainer specialising in the nurturing and development of young dogs using force-free, kind training techniques. She is a qualified Puppy School Tutor and operates Puppy School Rutland. She is also Puppy School regional manager for Greater London. Bobs is a full member of APDT (Association of Pet Dog Trainers 0094), has an advanced diploma in canine behaviour management and is a member of The Pet Professional Guild.

Puppy School Rutland

Our classes are fun and friendly and you will learn how to use modern, force-free and kind training techniques. Classes are held at Oakham Veterinary Hospital on Wednesday evenings. Puppy School Rutland & Dogknows 01664 454 792 bobs@dogknows.co.uk

To register your puppy, please contact Bobs Broadbent by e-mail: bobs@dogknows.co.uk or phone: 01664 454 792

www.puppyschool.co.uk

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1948 TTN-December Quarter Page Active Advert_TTN-December Quarter Page Active Advert 07/11/2013 08:10 Page 1

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Feature /// Sportsman’s Dinner

Bombay Cottage, Stamford JT and Dean take Uffington Cricket Club out for a curry. They didn’t offer to pay, though Dean After a great ‘couples’ outing to the Bombay Cottage a few months ago, we thought it would be the perfect spot for an evening of celebration after the Uffington Cricket Club annual golf day. So we headed off down to Scotgate with the rest of the team in tow. JT Definitely one of the best curry house in town, this one. What worries me the most is when I ring up for a takeaway though. They seem to know it’s me even before I’ve uttered three words. I think Mr Habib was a medium, or a detective, in a previous life. Dean He’s probably one of the best-known men in Stamford. Always welcoming and with one of the best smiles in Stamford. He’s been here 20 years now. Having come to Stamford as a tourist from Birmingham, he fell in love with the place. JT It’s easily done. I did the same, moving from Coventry. Anyway, it’s great to be back at the Bombay Cottage. Nice high beams and good decor and a decent atmosphere. Amusing as well that Mr Habib seemed to know the names of the rest of our 10-strong party. He even knew the name of one bloke who’s never even been out in Stamford. He’s definitely a medium. Dean No, a detective I think. That’s our wicket-keeper he’s named, and he’s known to half the police forces in England. JT Anyway, we took the lead and let Mr Habib choose us a mixed platter. If we gave everyone here the choice, it’ll take three hours for them to

make their mind up. And I don’t fancy sharing the vegetarian option our opening batsman is bound to choose. Dean Soon enough, Mr Habib and his equally smiley waiter, Zaﬁr (who is also known as Mr Jack) brought us out a few classic starters. Chicken chat masala was my favourite – chicken cooked with onion, garlic and served on ‘chat’ – that’s like a really nice, thinner naan bread. JT That’s the only good bit of chat you were involved with that night, Dean. My tandoori duck was marinated in lemon, yoghurt and spices and grilled in a clay oven. Absolutely superb. Dean I’m not surprised. You and ducks have been synonymous all season. In fact, it’s a shame we’re somewhere that’s such good quality. Maybe if we were somewhere else, you’d get some runs for the ﬁrst time this season too. JT Yes, very good. Anyway, for mains I opted for the tandoori mixed grill. Perfectly cooked tandoori chicken that falls off the bone, chicken tikka, sheek kebab, lamb chops and king prawn. Superb quality and excellent portion sizes as well. Dean Well my chicken tikka rogon was very good once again – pieces of well-cooked chicken in a medium sauce, with loads of herbs and spices. Highly recommended. From the rest of the group’s choices, the other favourite dish I tried was tiger prawn jalok. Spicy BBQ prawns

cooked with spinach, grated potato and mushroom with ﬂaked garlic and coriander. JT The other good thing about the Bombay Cottage is the fact that they have both my favourite Indian beers, Kingﬁsher and Cobra. Dean Do you know any other Indian beers then? JT Maybe not. This really is the ideal place to come as a sporting group. In fact, the evening we were there, another team were having their awards dinner. It’s one of those places that isn’t too high end that big sporting groups aren’t made to feel welcome, but still has quality food and a nice welcome. Dean I agree. I’ve been in here on a date with my future wife in recent weeks, and also with the cricket team. It’s a good venue for both. JT You’re right there. Which evening did you prefer though Dean, cricket team or wife? Dean No comment. Overall, the Bombay Cottage provided a great evening. Good food, a nice welcome, and always a pleasure to see Mr Habib and his team. Recommended venue for nights out with the boys, or a quality date with the lady.

Bombay Cottage

52 Scotgate, Stamford. 01780 480138 www.thebombaycottage.com

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Feature /// Great rides

Wymondham spin Jon Sheehan of Tri Coach 3 will be offering routes and training advice for cyclists, runners and swimmers over the next few months. This month is a tough 36 miles from Stamford to Wymondham and back This bike route is a scenic loop that takes the rider through a number of lovely villages. The majority of the climbing is undertaken during the ďŹ rst 21 miles and the remaining miles are mainly a gradual descent. Starting at the Danish Invader pub, turn right on to Empingham Road and then take the next right on to Roman Bank. Turn right on to Tinwell Road and follow through to Ketton. As you cycle out of the village, take a right at the crossroads up Empingham Road. Follow this road for approximately two miles and then turn right and head across to Normanton. Head for Empingham and turn right on to Church Street. At the crossroads go straight over to Exton. Take a right after the garage in Cottesmore and follow this road across to Market Overton. Now spin out towards Teigh and Edmonthorpe and follow the signs for Wymondham. As you enter Wymondham there will be signs for the Windmill, which is a popular refreshment point with cyclists (they do a lovely hot chocolate and lots of calorie rich cake to top up your blood sugar levels). Once you have refuelled, head across to South Witham, following the road to Castle Bytham. Spin back down through Pickworth and Great Casterton towards Stamford. Tri Coach3 advises riding in pairs or a group and recommends informing someone of your proposed route.

STATS Start/Finish The Danish Invader, Empingham Road, Stamford Distance 36.95 miles Time 12mph = 3.04:30, 15mph = 2.31:43, 18mph = 2.03:00 Elevation 1,798 Difficulty 8/10

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Feature /// School sports

Stamford win 18-0 at Oakham STAMFORD FIRST XV produced a fantastic defensive display to claim a solid 18-0 win away at Oakham School. Stamford started the brighter and scrum half Jamie Richardson controlled possession effectively using his forwards to get over the gain line. Great work from Ralph Offer and Declan Spaine in midﬁeld forced a penalty which Callum Crellin converted. As the intensity built, errors from both teams prevented any scores until Archie Toseland crashed over from short range following a series of drives from Josh Allen, Henry Charlton and Connor Collett. The pressure and intensity started to build in the second half as neither side was able to take advantage of territory. Oakham mounted wave after wave of attacks but thanks to some great defensive pressure from notably George Cox, Henry Hives and Charlie Dunbar, they returned to half way without points. With 15 minutes to go Stamford broke the deadlock as Crellin slotted another penalty following an offside in the midﬁeld. The remaining 10 minutes was all Stamford as they battered the gain line. Oakham defended valiantly but a clever move allowed full back

Crellin to slip down the blindside and dive for the line. The result was never in doubt after he converted his own score. Stamford First XV coach David Laventure was pleased with his charges: “These games are always played with great intensity with neither side giving anything less than their best in terms

of commitment. Oakham are always a well drilled outﬁt and playing away puts tremendous pressure on the boys’ skills sets. They should be very happy with the way they played.” There were also wins for Stamford’s 2nd XV and 3rd XV, who maintain their unbeaten record for 2013.

BROOKE IN IAPS HOCKEY TOURNAMENT HOCKEY IS THE SPORT enjoyed by girls in the prep department at Brooke Priory School in the autumn term and this year the school moved up into a different league by entering the IAPS (Independent Association of Prep Schools) regional hockey tournament at Repton School in October. The standard was exceptionally high and the girls performed superbly throughout the day, competing well in all of their matches. They employed all the skills that they had accumulated over the past few years and, although they didn’t bring back the winners shield, had a fantastic day. Headmistress Elizabeth Bell said: ‘It is a pleasure to watch the girls on the pitch – they are motivated and enthusiastic about their hockey.”

U14 girls are county champions THE STAMFORD HIGH SCHOOL U14 hockey team have been crowned county champions at the first major tournament of their playing career. With a commanding start in their first match, the High School team put away eight goals against King Edward VI Grammar School. Bourne Grammar were next and put up a good fight in their defending quarter, but the girls continued their relentless penetrative attack and scored twice to see them through to the semi-finals against Lincoln Minster School. Continuing with a clean sheet of goals against them, the team were convincing, yet again, in their determination to show their prowess on the pitch, scoring five goals and securing their place in the final. In the last match of the day, the girls were pumped with excitement; a steely performance from both attacking and defensive units confirmed the teams’ hunger to win the trophy. The U14s scored two goals against Spalding High School in the final and they retained their clean sheet for the whole tournament. They now progress to the Regional Hockey Tournament at Bedford.

Oakhamians picked for national squads THREE OAKHAMIANS have been selected for the England National Age Group Squads (NAG) in hockey. Alice Huddlestone was selected following her goal scoring form in the Futures Cup. She scored four goals in three games for the Mercia Lynx Under 16 team. Maddie Pearce has gained NAG Under 16 selection due to her performance at the Under 15 HiPac assessment camp, which indicates she is in the top four Under 15 players in the country. Alice and Maddie are year 10 pupils and have fought off competition from older players to win their places. First team captain Monty Jefferson has been selected for the Under 18 squad after captaining the Mercia Lynx team to the Futures Cup.

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Tigers star Chuter helps school rugby players GEORGE CHUTER, the Leicester Tigers and England international hooker, passed on a wealth of knowledge and experience to Oakham’s rugby players. He spent time coaching the 1st and 2nd XVs

and players from the U15 squad. Oakham School’s director of rugby, Ian Smith, was delighted with the session that George ran. He said: “George is an exceptional player. The boys hung on his every word.”

He added: “George is coming to the end of his playing career and clearly has the ability to become a ﬁne coach. His ability to communicate effectively, getting the best out the players, made it an afternoon the boys will not forget.”

Champions’. As well as winning the title of ‘top school’ at the championships and placing second overall, the school Feva (U16) team also did exceptionally well, ﬁnishing second in the Silver league.

“The team only formed at the start of term but it has been several years in development as many of our sailors have already been competing at international level for a number of years,” said Oakham coach Nick Neve.

Sailing success OAKHAM SAILORS won the accolade of ‘top school’ and placed second overall at the world’s biggest team racing event. Over 300 young sailors from 50 teams were racing in the annual two-day event, with strong gusty wind and intense downpours adding to the challenge. This year’s event was held at Farmoor Reservoir, Oxford, and saw Oakham’s young sailors going head-to-head with teams from across the country for the coveted title of ‘2013 RYA Eric Twiname Team Racing

Bourne Grammar in cross-country competition STUDENTS FROM Bourne Grammar competed in the regional final of the English Schools’ Cross Country Cup at Boston. The level of competition was high with almost 1,000 schools entered in one age group or more. These are whittled down by the regional finals stage to around 250 schools across the country with finals consisting of just eight schools each with four teams remaining. The Inter Girls, consisting of mainly year nines, also found the going tough, and despite a valiant effort and some excellent individual performances, again, it was not to be this year. By the time of the final race, the 4.5km Inter Boys, the course was truly churned up and the ‘refreshing’ knee deep water at one of the horse jumps on the equestrian course (used as part of the course) had already taken its toll on a number of runners. The team started well, worked hard throughout the course, and finished with all scoring runners in the top 20 positions. With a team score of more than 60 it would be nervous wait as the team recovered, to see if they would be heading to the national final in Southend on 30 November. Both joy and relief were evident throughout the team as the news broke that all the hard work had paid off and secured a place in the final.

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Roundup The scores, star performers and stats from a month in Stamford and Rutland sport

Football

Tough going for Daniels and Blackstones BY DEAN CORNISH

ife doesn’t get any easier for the Stamford Daniels in the Evo Stik Premier Division. With a poor run of form in November the Daniels are left in the bottom four, three points away from safety. The Daniels bounced back well from their heart-breaking exit from the FA Cup at the hands of Hednesford Town with a wonderful 2-0 away win at Rushall Olympic the following Tuesday to ﬁnish off a great October period which saw David Staff’s men ﬁnish the month with a creditable 10 league points. But November started badly though with a 2-1 home defeat against Whitby, and it didn’t get much better for the rest of the month with subsequent losses at home against Barwell (0-2) and then a hammering away at Worksop Town that saw the Daniels concede six goals for the second time this season. David Staff’s side did progress in the less important of the trophies on offer this season though (The Doodson Cup), with a 6-0 home win over Lincoln United, but the

confidence gained from that result was only enough for them to then scrape a league draw at home against fellow strugglers, Trafford, with Ryan Robbins scoring a late penalty to earn a point. As I’ve mentioned in this column numerous times, no-one at Stamford AFC thought this season would be easy and it’s certainly proving that way, with surely the only aim for David Staff is to make sure his side finish outside the relegation zone next April. After this month’s difficult period, the first few voices of dissent seem to have appeared with some calls for Staff to be given some managerial assistance. One thing that’s for sure is that the Stamford manager won’t give in easily, and I fully expect him to still be in charge at Christmas. The next few weeks, though, are crucial for Stamford as they try and stay in touch with those above them. They certainly don’t want to be cut adrift at Christmas. Stamford AFC fans can be thankful that they’re not having quite as bad a time of it as Blackstones at the moment though, with

Gary Peace’s side fighting against a second successive relegation. The Lincoln Road outfit’s form hasn’t got any better with five defeats and just one win in the four weeks since last month’s column. The Stones lost 7-1 at Eynesbury and 4-1 away at Lutterworth before then picking up a good 3-1 home win over Buckingham Town with goals from Adi Staffieri, Giulano Staffieri and Sam Strange. That confidence-boosting win (only their second of the season) was ideal for the Stones as they then faced basement boys Woodford United the following week, a side at the bottom of the table and surely a side whom Stones could have beaten and picked up successive wins. However, it didn’t quite work out as expected with Woodford winning the game 2-1 and picking up national headlines after recording their first points in over 100 games of football, ending a run of 65 successive defeats. The Woodford manager equalled their win to being like victory in the final of the FA Cup. Since then, Stones have since lost

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Right Stamford Daniels are enduring a poor run of form, leaving them in the bottom four of their division

4-1 at home to Eynesbury and 2-0 at home to Northampton Spencer. It’s going to be a long hard winter for Blackstones. It’s not been a great few weeks for Uppingham Town meanwhile with their Peterborough Premier Division championship challenge faltering slightly. After winning seven of their opening nine games, Richard Kendrick’s men then drew at home to Leverington before then losing consecutive games to high flyers Whittlesey and table toppers King’s Lynn Town Reserves. If Kendrick’s side had got points from both those games they would potentially have been title favourites, but having lost both games you feel a top four finish is more of a realistic target. Uppingham are now fifth in the league, although with three games in hand it’s certainly by no means an impossible feat to finish the season on top, especially having now got back to winning ways with a 4-0 thumping of Pinchbeck. Oakham United are moving themselves back up the Premier League table meanwhile after their tumultuous start to

the season. They are now up to mid-table having drawn with Pinchbeck United and smashed Coates Athletic 8-1 in recent weeks. It’s not all been good though for Wayne Oldaker’s men with home defeats to Stilton and Peterborough ICA, and a poor away defeat at Crowland Town meaning they still have work to do to get back into the top half of the division. In Division One meanwhile, Ketton FC remain the local team to watch having won their last seven league games to move up to seventh in the league table. They’re just 11 points off the top so if they keep up this scintillating form, they’re deﬁnitely potentials for promotion. Recent wins have included two derby victories over Stamford Bels (3-1) and Ryhall United (0-1). James Sheehan’s Ryhall side have also been in reasonable form having beaten Farcet and Holbeach United Reserves recently to also be handily placed in eighth position in the league. The Stamford Bels’ form remains poor, having failed to win in the league since mid-September, meaning they’re sadly

rooted in the bottom two. The Bels did get a draw away at Warboys but apart from that they’ve lost at Ketton, Moulton, Holbeach and Thorney in recent weeks. In the Leicestershire Senior League, Cottesmore have had a mixed run of form of late. They suffered a heavy defeat to champions Rothly Imps in which goalkeeper Alex Brown was dismissed for a professional foul leading to a 5-0 defeat. This was followed by a 3-0 defeat to Caterpillar with manager Neil Miller at a loss to explain how they had not got anything from the game. They got back on track against Dunton and Broughton Rangers with a 4-2 victory; Dave Gordon and Jake Culverwell with a brace each. The reserve team have had a bright start under new manager Steve Duffy, beating high-ﬂying Barlestone Reserves 2-1 with Rich Giblin scoring two late goals to claim the victory and this was followed by a battling display in a 1-1 draw against Lutterworth Town Reserves, with Mark Frost on the scoresheet.

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Roundup

Equestrianism

Great turnouts for local hunt meets BY JULIA DUNGWORTH

ust like that, winter has arrived... how did it turn so cold so quickly? However, the horse world is still buzzing and unless we have heavy snow, it doesn’t seem to have a quiet season anymore. Riding as a sport is getting stronger and stronger. You only have to have travelled to one of your local opening hunt meets to see the massive support, both on foot and on horse. Most of the hunts have several opening meets opening different parts of their country. I went to the Cottesmore Lincolnshire Opening meet which was held at the Round Hills at Toft, by permission of Mrs. J Dungworth. They had a great mounted turn out – this is always a popular meet and is also famed for Mrs. Dungworth’s amazing hunt tea, where copious amounts of egg sandwiches and sponge cakes are consumed. The Cottesmore are ﬂying this year and have been enjoying a renewed popularity – on November 9 they had 105 mounted at Tilton and on November 12 they met at Braunston,where they had a record number of visitors from other packs. The Cottesmore, like many hunts, have a tumblers club which, as you can guess, is for those unlucky enough to eat dirt in their

day. To add in insult to injury they then have to pay £5 for the privilige! They are, however, happy to name and shame, running up a rather extensive league table with the current leader on a rather enthusiastic five falls! Not only do they have designated spotters out everyday, our friendly local photographer Nico Morgan is often on standby to provide evidence in their misdemeanors. Take a look at his website for blow-byblow accounts of the fallers. The Belvoir’s season is well underway too. They met on November 17 at Skalford Hall near Melton Mowbray. Hounds flew all day and a large mounted field enjoyed the conditions and cream of the Leicestershire hedge country under the guidance of joint master Tom Kingston. This was not the day for the faint hearted as recent weather conditions have prevented the local farmers trimming their hedges this autumn. They also have a tumblers club and from this day alone they have 14 fallers so far! Eventing is all finished for the year, but there are lots of dressage and jumping shows on all over the winter. Grange Farm at Wittering has been

hosting shows every weekend over the last month in its new international-style arena. The first show – Wittering Academy’s Show Jumping Competition – took place on October 27 with clear round running all day. Emma Vergette wiped the floor, winning two classes and coming second in another. They had five different height classes with up to twenty in each class. The following weekend saw Rutland Riding Club’s combined training, which also saw plenty of new faces. Sue Booth took both of the higher dressage classes with Gemma Sonfield’s new steed Icon. The last competition was back to Wittering Academy for the second competition in the Winter League, again running their theme on doubles. Jess Butler from Cottesmore took the spoils, winning the Prelim and the Medium tests. Nicky Polson, Joisen Chalmers and junior rider Romy Hawksworth were the victors in the rest of the tests. Do keep an eye out on your local riding club websites, as the shows are coming thick and fast, with refreshments always on site for those spectators willing to brave the cold.

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Rugby

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akham had a fine month, winning all three matches. Starting away to Melbourne on a sunny, windy day they swept into an early 8-0 lead, George Reid scoring a quick tap try. However, the conditions were playing havoc with Mark Matthews’ normally reliable goal kicking and in the second half, the wind now with Melbourne, things became, shall we say, a little tense as the home side closed the gap. Those in the know won’t be surprised to hear flanker Carel Fourie was in the thick of things. The belligerent Boer was cynically tripped by an opponent (or, as one Melbourne fan put it, “seemed to fall over a player who was on the floor”) to which Reid took exception and was binned, Fourie himself following shortly thereafter for stamping. Melbourne briefly took the lead with ten minutes to go but wiser heads prevailed as Oaks converted one of the two penalties they were awarded and then ran down the clock. Perhaps all were feeling a little irritated after arriving to find the dressing rooms locked and the key nowhere to be found. Next up was the demolition derby that is

Melton Mowbray. The visitors have been having an unusually poor season, but the added spice that this fixture contains always ensures a close, hard-fought battle. Melton “declined to provide a team sheet” and a side unrecognisable from last season’s – and a good 10 years younger on average – took to the field. Perhaps taken back, Oaks conceded a converted try in the first minute and as the half progressed Melton’s scrum became dominant. However, captain Adam Downing rallied the troops and, to the surprise of many observers, they began to play a ruck and maul game with much success. So much so that they were awarded a penalty try as Melton pulled one of those rucks down between their posts to level the score at half time. Oaks now had the measure of things and prevented Melton from troubling the scorer in the second half as they ran out 18-7 winners. Their good form continued with a 29-7 victory at Nottingham Casuals with tries from James Beanland, Matthew Dalton, Tom Burton and Adam Stimpson. They now lie second in the table, seven points behind Spalding. Stamford College Old Boys had a month

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skipper Carl Walker described as “hit and miss. Not great results – it’s been tough.” They went down 39-20 at Old Newtonians, were beaten by Oundle 7-22 at home and then by Bourne 12-8 in the cup. More “miss and miss” then really, Carl. He continued “We’re badly suffering with injuries at the moment. We’ve six out and I had to cancel the St Neots match as we hadn’t a scrum”. They led Bourne early on but tired under pressure as the visitors brought fresh legs on - an option sadly not available to College given their injury list. “We’ve had tough ﬁxtures as well over the past few weeks but we’re looking forward to the run up to Christmas as there are a few winnable games to come”. Carl singled out two new players for praise; 18year old Tom Ellson in the front row, who was given his debut against Bourne, and prop Shane Pickerill. Stamford Town’s poor early season form is gradually improving as players return from injury. Although they lost 48-13 at Belgrave they turned over Nottingham Casuals 23-0 at home and will consider themselves unfortunate to have lost narrowly at Dronﬁeld 29-28. It’ll take more

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TIGERS TALK

Above

Young hooker Harry Thacker gave a stand-out performance in the 39-16 win over Ospreys Picture: Tigers Images

than this to get club president Steve Fowkes back from his Greek island. Deepings, a side in transition with a lot of young players, will not want to remember this month for long having been beaten by Brackley and Vipers and thrashed 83-9 by Daventry. They lie seven points adrift at the foot of the table but I feel sure will improve as the season wears on. In contrast, Stoneygate seem to be settling in nicely to their new home in Uppingham, murdering Leicester Lions vets 66-0, handing out a similar lesson away to Burbage 81-14 and also winning a friendly

Weekends from November 30th Daily from December 14th—23rd Father Christmas in the Mill House Free Christmas crafts Living Nativity in the Animal Yard

Something of a siege mentality reigned at Leicester Tigers following their woeful performance against Harlequins. It could be smelt in the air when I met Richard Cockerill and veteran hooker George Chuter a couple of days a erwards. Thus far Cockerill had been admirably unwilling to lay the blame for a poor season on injury problems and international duty, but now even he was struggling to put on a brave face. “The injury curse keeps coming back to get us”, he said. “I’ve six centres in the senior squad and none of them are available for next Friday. You’ve got to keep smiling or you’d cry it’s so bad. Scott Hamilton will be the only starter against Quins who’ll start the next match”. It wasn’t only the injuries that frustrated him. He plainly felt the players’ commitment had been lacking. “It’ll be a good opportunity for the development squad against Ospreys. Let’s hope the youngsters put a bit of pride back in, which we didn’t have against the Quins. Show some of the older hands what playing in the green shirt at Welford Road really means”. Being Cockerill though, the fighting spirit was soon back: “These are the cards you’re dealt. No-one’s going to feel sorry for us and we can’t feel sorry for ourselves. With 100% of our squad fit we’re a match for anyone”. I wasn’t about to argue and – with the boss in this mood – wouldn’t have been brave enough to even if I disagreed. Away from the fray I asked George Chuter how Cockerill’s anger management classes were going, which at least raised a laugh. “He might have missed a few. I think he’s been sending in sick notes”, added the hooker. The 39-16 victory over Ospreys that followed, including stand-out performances from England Under 18 centre Javiah Pohe and 19-year old hooker Harry Thacker, will have come as a relief to all. Had they lost there might have been a few punctured eardrums to add to the injury toll for the cup tie at Worcester, which they also won 21-18.

at Shepshed 36-7. There are good things behind the bald stats too, as club captain Graeme Ough told me: “We’re putting out two teams now, something that’s not happened for three years, and we’ve had around 50 spectators at home matches, much more than we had in Leicester. The other great thing is we’re scoring tries – 12 against Burbage alone.” There are ﬁve new players, including two Oakham School old boys in Henry Bridgewood and Cillian Brugh, the latter scoring 12 tries already this season. They’ve also given a debut to Tom Cole, a Gaelic Football player who’d never

touched a rugby ball before this year. Ough continued: “I’d really like to thank all the people of Uppingham for all the support they’ve given us”. Good for you Uppingham. Lastly, here’s a trivia question for you. Which side reached the third round of the cup, but then went out having neither scored nor conceded a single point in the whole competition? The answer is Oakham, whose opponents defaulted in rounds one and two but then themselves didn’t fancy a long trip to Dunstable without a front row. There’s no pleasing some people.

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Feature /// Stalwart

Michael Nobby Clark P R E S I D E N T, S TA M F O R D & D I S T R I C T B OW L S L E AG U E

orse racing and bowls seem worlds apart but 77-year-old former jockey Michael ‘Nobby’ Clark from Market Deeping spans the divide as the new president of the Stamford & District Bowls League. He revealed that he took up bowls only 10 years ago after a career in racing, which included 25 years at the stables of the late Deeping trainer George Vergette, riding 25 winners. “I wish I’d taken up bowls years ago,” he said. “It’s far from being just an old man’s game and keeps me competitive.” He still remembers the good old days when he saddled up on a string of top class horses over hurdles and fences and still keeps a stack of old black and white photographs to remind him and his family when he would take a ride for just 10 guineas (£11) and risk life and limb in front of tens of thousands of punters every week. “I started as a flat race jockey when I got my licence in 1952 but I got too heavy and turned to riding over fences and hurdles,” he recalls. So what’s the best horse he’s ever ridden? “It would have to be Purple Silk,” he revealed without hesitation. “George trained him and I won on him twice at Southall and Market Rasen and finished second twice at Doncaster and Nottingham over hurdles. “I was better known as a hurdles jockey so I didn’t get the ride when Purple Silk led the Grand National at Aintree in 1964 and finished second by only half a length behind Team Spirit.” I asked what was a typical day for a jockey in the 50s, 60s and 70s when he was in his prime. “During the winter months I was racing two or three times a week but otherwise I’d take the three horses I looked after out at 6.30am to walk and canter then back for breakfast. At around

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Bob Warters

Above and right

Nobby Clark today and steering Golden Admiral to victory over the hurdles at Stratford in the mid-1960s

4pm we’d groom, them, feed them and settle them in for the night,” said Nobby, who did his National Service in the Queen’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery pulling guns on ceremonial duties in London. His best memory in the saddle was his first competitive ride, which he remembers as if it was yesterday. “I was aged just 16 and I was given my first chance in a flat race at Nottingham. The horse was called Rose Dust and we finished last of five!” Still as chirpy as he was then over 50 years ago he has now taken to bowling at least once a week.

As well as league president he’s captain of Market Deeeping bowls club’s A team and although they were relegated from the ﬁrst division of the Stamford League he says they are determined to give a good account of themselves in league games during the summer months. “Our green has its critics but we’re investing in bringing it up to a higher standard with the help of one of the best local greenkeepers and hopefully visitors next year will see a great improvement,” he says. As president he will be staging a gala day in the summer with the proceeds going to his favourite charity. Appropriately for Nobby it’s the Injured Jockeys’ Fund with proceeds going to the new rehabilitation centre at Malton in East Yorkshire, originally set up when Paddy Farrell broke his back at the Chair fence in that same 1964 Grand National.

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