Active Magazine // Stamford & Rutland // July 2017

FR ISSUE 61 // JULY 2017

EE

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HOW TO… Stamford & Rutland’s sport and lifestyle magazine

Get perfect posture Make ice tea cocktails Buy the ideal bikini

E a u W ow !

Thrills, spills, splashing and dashing about on the water Will’s Walk

Elton and y Fotheringha ISSUE 61 // JULY 2017

Bat to the future Uffington’s cricketing colts

Local heroes Round the world, off to Iceland, and 321 challenge

www.theACTIVEmag.com 07

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Editor’s Letter THIS PAST YEAR I HAVE PLAYED LESS SPORT than I have ever done in my life. I broke my arm pretty badly at the end of last summer and needed a plate putting in, which put paid to anything for a few months.

Then, when I finally got back to full fitness (a relative term for me, I went to cricket nets, got hit by a beamer in the ribs five balls in and spent six weeks or so struggling to breathe or sleep. Next, moving house and working long hours got in the way, and after that I dislocated/broke (not sure which) my toe and have spent another month hobbling about.

The year of no sport, apart from some rounds of golf in a few quiet moments. And I’ve been pretty hopeless at that, too.

And it’s made me realise just how incredibly easy it is to get out of the swing of things, to lose those routines, habits and hobbies that you hold so dear. Before you know it, you’re sitting in front of the TV, or busy doing DIY, or shopping at the weekend. All those things that other people who don’t play sport do.

They don’t know they’re missing the jokes and camaraderie, the elation at a hard fought victory, that endorphin-fuelled hazy feeling of exhaustion, the fizz of competition and challenge, that nervous buzz on the morning of a match, a week spent ticking, waiting for a chance to redeem yourself for failure. For those that play sport, it’s hard to explain to those who don’t how much it means, or why it means so much.

So I’ll get back to it I’m sure (although what ridiculous injury awaits me next I dread to think), and if for whatever reason you are like me, you have my sympathy.

And if you’re thinking of giving up, think long and hard before taking the plunge. Because sometimes you don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone.

Publisher Chris Meadows chris@theactivemag.com Editor Steve Moody steve@theactivemag.com Deputy editor Mary Bremner mary@theactivemag.com Production editor Julian Kirk julian@theactivemag.com Art editor Mark Sommer mark@theactivemag.com Contributors Martin Johnson, William Hetherington, Jeremy Beswick, Julia Dungworth Photographers Nico Morgan, Pip Warters Production assistant Gary Curtis Advertising sales Lisa Withers lisa@theactivemag.com Amy Roberts amy@theactivemag.com Editorial and Advertising Assistant Kate Maxim kate@theactivemag.com Accounts accounts@theactivemag.com Active magazine, The Grey House, 3 Broad Street, Stamford, PE9 1PG. Tel: 01780 480789

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. Active magazine is published 12 times per year on a monthly basis. ISSN 2049-8713 A Grassroots Publishing Limited company. Company registration number 7994437. VAT number 152717318 Disclaimer

Enjoy the issue! Steve

Twitter // @theACTIVEmag Facebook // www.facebook.com/theACTIVEmag

Copyright (c) Grassroots Publishing Limited (GPL) 2016. 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 61 /// JULY 2017

ACTIVE LIFE 11 WHAT’S ON

Great things to do locally for all the family

13 HOW TO...

Make iced tea cocktails and scones

16-17 RIVERFORD RECIPE

This month we cook an asparagus and blue cheese tart

19 GET AWAY FROM IT ALL Island hopping in Croatia

FEATURES

22

22-29 EAU WHAT FUN!

The best water-based activities in our region

31 MARTIN JOHNSON’S COLUMN

Why Brits are sure to fail when they’re labelled as favourites

ACTIVE BODY 35 BACK ISSUES

Expert advice from the Avicenna Clinic

38 KIT BAG

The latest essential gear

42-43 THE FINISHING TOUCHES

Tips and products to help you look great on holiday

ACTIVE LOCAL 46 DAY IN THE LIFE OF...

HMP Stocken governor Neil Thomas

42

56 50

48-49 CHALLENGE UPDATES...

How our intrepid fund-raisers are faring

50-53 BAT TO THE FUTURE

Uffington’s burgeoning youth cricket sides

55 ON YOUR BIKE!

A great cycling route from Rutland Cycling

56-57 GREAT WALKS

Taking in Elton and Fotheringhay

61 SCHOOLS SPORTS

Successes on the field from our local schools

62-66 ROUND-UP

How clubs in the area are faring

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SUNSEEKER

BY NATURE? The MINI Convertible could be your perfect match. Offering a fresh take on open-top driving, its quick and quiet electrical roof folds up or down in just 18 seconds.

What’s more, it’s packed with an impressive range of technology as standard.

Who’s in? To find out more about our compelling offers and book a test drive*, call 01733 707074 or visit: www.sycamoremini.co.uk

Sycamore Peterborough Ltd. Papyrus Road, Werrington, Peterborough PE4 5HW Official Fuel Economy Figures for the new MINI Convertible range: Urban 35.8-64.2 mpg (7.9-4.4 l/100km). Extra Urban 55.4-80.7 mpg (5.1-3.5 l/100km).

Combined 46.3-74.3 mpg (6.1-3.8 l/100km). CO2 Emissions 100-142 g/km. Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions.

*Test drive subject to applicant status and availability.

Activelife

Activelife SAILING IN CROATIA, GRASS SNAKES AND CUCKOOS, AFTERNOON TEA, LOCAL NEWS AND A DELICIOUS SUMMER ASPARAGUS RECIPE Edited by Mary Bremner

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Activelife

VISITING VETS PawSquad offers a veterinary service in your home, making the dreaded visit to the vet much less stressful for your pet and you.

Vet, Dr Mark Westwood and nurse Rebecca are the local practitioners covering the area around Stamford and Rutland. Consultation times are 30-40 minutes and any medicines are delivered to your house.

Evening and weekend appointments are also available. Home consultations cost £48 for a 30-40 minute vet appointment and £28 for a nurse. Medications, vaccinations and other procedures are extra.

You can book Mark and Rebecca by ringing 01780 322032 or book online via the website at www. pawsquad.com.

A VIEW FROM THE TOWER The tower at All Saints’ Church in Stamford is now open for tours every Saturday morning from now until the end of September. Once you’ve navigated the 140 steps you can enjoy amazing views across the town. Tours cost £3 for adults and £2 for under 16s.

To book call Stamford Tourist Information Centre on 01780 755611.

Happy birthday Aroha Aroha Beauty House in Uppingham is celebrating its first birthday this month and has gone from strength to strength since it opened, so much so that a new therapist has come on board.

To celebrate, Lottie will be having a party with catering provided by husband and wife team Sam and Romy Letteri.

Sam is Take That’s personal chef and soon we can all sample the food as Sam and Romy are opening a sushi restaurant in Oakham in September. www.arohabeautyhouse.com

FABULOUS FUNKY LITTLE FEET Congratulations to Funky Little Feet UK which has been nominated in the best new activity children category of the national What’s On 4 Kids Awards.

Mum of two Karoline Gray-Clark from Wittering launched Funky Little Feet UK in January this year. The business runs dance and fitness classes specifically for families, from babies upwards, where the focus is on having fun and getting active together.

Classes run in Wittering and King’s Cliffe with plans to expand into Stamford and surrounding villages shortly.

Contact Karoline on 07833 551493 or email funkylittlefeet@gmail.com.

SHOP OF THE MONTH

RAGING BULL Raging Bull, the men’s lifestyle and clothing brand, is opening a new store at the Springfields shopping centre in Spalding this month. The company was founded in 2003 by English rugby international Phil Vickery and sells everything from shirts to tweed jackets. www.springfieldshopping.co.uk

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25/06/2017 18:06

in a new Larkfleet Home!

Langham Barns, Barleythorpe

Buttercross Park, Oakham

Langham Barns is a collection of four exclusive, luxury 2 and 3 bedroom homes in Barleythorpe on the edge of Oakham.

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188x125mm LF Elton Shellfish Thursday Ad Apr 2017 v1.indd 1

11/04/2017 15:26

TIME TO INVEST IN PROPERTY? Worried about your pension and thinking about investing in property?

Come and ask our expert panel all your burning questions about property investing so you can avoid making costly mistakes.

FREE Property Clinic at the Orton Hall Hotel, Peterborough Wednesday 19th July at 6.30pm till 8pm Limited spaces, so please call Yvonne Emery on 07956 079605 to book your place now.

Find out more about Yvonne at www.yvonneemerycoaching.co.uk

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Activelife

WHAT’S ON There’s lots going on in your area this month, so why not try some of these?

■ The Stamford Shakespeare Company’s summer season at Tolethorpe is in full flow. Last year, 34,000 people enjoyed the performances at the open air theatre and this year you can see Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Much Ado About Nothing, as well as Hobson’s Choice. www.stamfordshakespeare.co.uk ■ It’s sweet pea week at Easton Walled Gardens from July 2-9.

There will be more than 100 types of sweet pea in full bloom as well as 50 varieties of roses.

The scent must be fantastic. www.visiteaston.co.uk ■ Baston in the Blitz is being held on August 5 and 6 in the village. The WW2 military and home front extravaganza offers all-day musical entertainment and dancing, re-enactments, fly pasts, displays and lots more, including plenty to occupy the children. www.bastonblitz.org ■ Enjoy a summer meditation and mindfulness retreat at

Rutland Water on August 13.

The retreat runs from 10am to 12.15pm and will be led by Buddhist nun Kelsang Rak-ma.

Tickets cost £15 per person. www.drolmacentre.org.uk or call 01733 755444 ■ Summer Wednesdays are back at Peterborough greyhounds.

Racing now takes place on three nights a week. Students get free entry on Wednesday night, all you have to do is show your student card. www.peterboroughgreyhounds.com

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25/06/2017 18:50

Unique battlefield tours for individuals, small and medium parties in Belgium or France.

Discover the personal stories ofsoldiers at Ypres, The Somme and Arras.

David Cashman I have been a regular visitor to the World War One battlefields for 22 years. I am an associate member of the Guild of Battlefield Guides and The Western Front Association.

I delight in discovering and seeing new aspects of this period in history and sharing with those who accompany me.

I GutLDof ATTLEFIELD GUIDES

"Mr Cashman's copious research into the fate ofthe Old Loughburians during the First World War proved invaluable on our school trip to the Somme and Ypres battlefields. With his information we were able to easily locate the graves and monuments ofold boys we were interested in, and his research provided our students with an excellent appreciation for the context ofthe battles that our old boys fought and died in. Moreover, he had looked into the histories oflocal sports teams, 'celebrity' soldiers, Victoria Cross winners and infamous stories of incompetence and loss during the conflict and made sure that we made the most ofevery site we visited".

"David's knowledge is first rate and the movements ofCorps and Divisions were explained clearly, yet mixed in were vivid personal stories and adventures ofindividual soldiers who fought over the ground we visited and that highlighted clearly the part played by my old Regiment, enlightening... marvellous, would go again".

WWW.WESTERNFRONTPILGRIMTOURS.COM 01476 860 767 / 07766 72176 4 No.3, The Lodge, Burrough Court, Burrough on the Hill, Leicestershire, LE14 2QS

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12 St Leonards Street Stamford, PE9 2HN

Tel 01780 654321 • sales@classicstamford.co.uk www.classicstamford.co.uk

23/06/2017 17:05

Activelife

HOW TO…

MAKE ICED TEA COCKTAILS AND SCONES Summer is here at last... the sun is shining so thoughts turn to afternoon tea and iced teas.

We’ve added a splash of alcohol to ours to make the perfect iced tea cocktail.

What better way to spend a sunny afternoon than having afternoon tea sitting under the shade of a leafy tree? Delicious scones are easy to make and a must.

Ingredients (serves 2) 2 Earl Grey teabags 1 tsp caster sugar 4 tbsp chilled Vermouth Rosso 4 tbsp ice cold vodka Juice of ½ lemon Sprigs of rosemary and slices of lemon Ice cubes

Ingredients 300g self-raising flour 75g butter or margarine 50g caster sugar 150ml milk

Method ● Add the teabags to 300ml of boiling water and infuse for 8 minutes. Stir in the sugar, leave to cool then put in the fridge. ● Pour the chilled tea into a jug, stir in the vermouth, vodka and lemon juice and add plenty of ice. ● Pour into chilled glasses or tea cups and serve with sprigs or rosemary and slices of lemon.

Chin, chin!

risen and are golden brown.

Serve warm or cold with lashings of strawberry jam and clotted cream.

Method ● Preheat the oven to 200 degrees. Sift the flour into a mixing bowl and add the butter cut into small squares, mix and then crumble the butter and flour together with your fingertips until it resembles breadcrumbs. Stir in the sugar and pour in the milk to make a soft dough. ● Lightly dust a work surface with flour and place the dough on it. Knead the dough slightly and then roll it out to 12cm thickness before cutting rounds with a pastry cutter. ● Transfer the scones to a lightly oiled baking tray and bake for 10-12 minutes until they have

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CARPETGALLOP.CO.UK

High Quality Carpet Fibre for Gallops, Ménages & Lunging Pens

Delivered in bales

from £85 per tonne plus VAT and delivery anywhere in the world.

Call UK 01785 719991 OR EMAIL mark@emeraldtrading.org.uk or charlotte@emeraldtrading.org.uk

WWW.CARPETGALLOP.CO.UK 14.indd 1

Tel 01780 654321 • www.classicstamford.co.uk • sales@classicstamford.co.uk

23/06/2017 14:45

Activelife NATURE

THE CUCKOO

By July adult cuckoos are preparing to return to Africa, leaving unfledged young in the nests of their foster parents to follow in August. The song is familiar and easily identifies the bird but its appearance is less well known. In flight it has a strong resemblance to a hawk with a rather hooked bill, long tail and pointed wings; the male grey above, paler below, with barred under parts and the female reddish brown like a kestrel.

Cuckoos are present from mid-April in woodlands, by reed beds and on farmland, where they lay their eggs in other birds’ nests.

At Rutland Water, reed warblers are the main host whilst away from wetlands dunnocks, or wrens may be the target. On moorland meadow pipits are the main host.

In recent years cuckoos have been in steep decline, down 76% in the East Midlands between 1995 and 2009. Reasons for this may include a reduction of certain moth caterpillars which the adults relish; a knockon effect of the greatly increased use of agricultural pesticides. Records of young cuckoos spilling out of the nests of their overworked foster parents are now uncommon but one fledged from a dunnock nest at Barrow in 2016.

Terry Mitcham

THE DOG ROSE The dog rose is now in full flower and in the autumn the rose hips will form.

A climbing rose with sharp thorns, it weaves its way through other hedgerow plants. The flowers are a pale pink and the fruit ripens in the

autumn from September. Rose hips are high in vitamin C and were used to make syrups to boost levels throughout the winter. Interestingly the hairs inside the hips are an irritant and were used to make itching powder.

The grass snake Our largest native snake, well over a metre long, and non venomous. Easily identifiable, usually greenish in colour with a yellow collar and black neck patches.

Grass snakes particularly like wetland areas but can be found on farm and grassland and even in gardens, particularly if there is a pond nearby. They can often be found in the summer basking in the sun and are frequently seen swimming. They lay their eggs in rotting vegetation so look out for them in your compost heap. They can live for up to 25 years and are protected under the Wildlife Countryside Act. Like all reptiles, grass snakes hibernate between October and April.

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Activelife

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ASPARAGUS AND BLUE CHEESE TART WITH FENNEL, ORANGE AND HAZELNUT SALAD INGREDIENTS

1 sheet of ready made puff pastry 1 bunch of asparagus 1 fennel 1 orange Olive oil Salt and pepper 2 eggs 100g Stilton cheese 1 pot crème fraiche 25g whole roasted hazelnuts 50g salad

METHOD

then between each membrane to release the segments (3). If you find this tough, peel, finely slice, then cut the slices in halves or quarters. ● Add the segments to the fennel. Squeeze any juice from the leftover membranes into the bowl.

Add 2 tbsp olive oil and season with salt and pepper. ● After 12-15 minutes remove the pastry from the oven, carefully push down any pastry that’s risen in the middle, leaving the puffed up edge. Cool for 5 minutes.

Preheat your oven to 220 degrees (gas 7). Cut the pastry into four equal sized rectangles – you only need two of them, so wrap the other two up and keep in the fridge for future use.

Separate the egg yolks from the whites. Discard the whites (save them to make meringues) Put the yolks in a bowl, crumble in the blue cheese.

Add 4 dessert spoons of crème fraiche.

● Put the two pastry rectangles on a non-stick baking sheet. Use a sharp knife to score a border 2cm in. Prick the middle of the pastry several times with a fork (this prevents it puffing up too much). Bake for 12-15 minutes until a pale golden colour, not quite cooked through (1).

● Trim the asparagus spears if needed so they fit lengthways in the middle of the pastry. Finely slice any leftover bits and add to the eggs and blue cheese. Season with pepper and stir.

●

● Bend the asparagus stalks one at a time until part of the base snaps off (this shows where they begin to be tough). Discard the ends. ● Cut the stalk tops off the fennel, saving any feathery fronds for garnish. Cut the bulb in half lengthways, chop out the core at the base in a triangular shape and very finely slice the rest (2).

Transfer to a large bowl.

Cut a small slice off the top and bottom of the orange. Ideally using a small serrated knife, cut down and round to remove the skin and pith, ●

RECIPE BOXES Riverford recipe boxes are a simple and inspiring way to cook. Every week, we deliver everything you need to make three tasty organic meals. Inside each box, you’ll find the freshest, seasonal organic produce, step-by-step recipe cards and all the ingredients in exact quantities.

The recipes are quick to cook and ideal for weeknights – most are ready in under

1

●

● Carefully spoon the egg mix over the pastry, leaving the border clear. Lay the asparagus on top (if the spears are thick slice lengthways in half). Dab them with oil and season with pepper.

Bake for approximately 15 minutes until crisp and golden.

2

3

● Roughly chop the hazelnuts, then add to the fennel. Toss everything together and serve alongside the tart.

Tip The leftover pastry can be made into cheese straws. Cut into strips, twist, sprinkle over some finely grated cheese and bake in the oven.

45 minutes. Think well balanced and nutritious, with a few treats thrown in. Our cooks come up with nine new recipes every week, so there is always plenty of choice.

There are three different varieties of recipe box - choose from vegetarian, quick, or original. A box for two people ranges in price from £33 for the vegetarian box, to £39.95 for the quick and original boxes. Delivered straight to your door, with everything you need to cook

included, generous portion sizes, and three delicious meals per box they offer great value for money.

No waste. No missing the vital ingredient. All you have to do is cook.

Visit: www.riverford.co.uk/recipebox to

find out more or call 01803 762059.

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66 e am fic t h of n a ak w pe , O Ne o reet w no St h ut So

Friendly Family Legal Advice

If you are experiencing a change in family life our friendly Solicitors and legal experts can offer practical, helpful advice.

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For Busi ne ss, for you , for life .

14/03/2017 10:50:00

23/06/2017 16:30

Activelife

TRAVEL

ISLANDS GALORE COSMOPOLITAN TOWNS, beautiful Venetian architecture, quiet harbours, sparkling clear waters and gentle sailing winds with so many islands to choose from – more than 1,000 in total, many of them uninhabited.

Croatia is the perfect destination for a sailing holiday for families and those wanting a more lively time, it has something for everyone.

Croatia has become the ‘go to’ destination for many including the sailing fraternity as it has world class sailing on offer. You can join a flotilla to sail your own boat around the islands or you can have the sailing done for you, the choice is yours. What’s more, you can learn to sail while on your holiday.

There are two distinctive areas to choose from, the Dalmatian Islands, easily accessible from Split, and the Kornati Islands in the north of the country. If you want lively nightlife and a more cosmopolitan atmosphere head south to the Dalmatians as these islands have larger villages and towns, some of which are renowned party towns.

If peace and tranquility is more you, head north to the Kornati Islands with their breathtaking national parks, quiet islands with isolated tavernas and more varied sailing.

Croatia is becoming famous for its music festivals held throughout the summer, many on some of the islands, so July is the perfect time to go. July is also one of the hottest months so sea temperature is at its warmest, the perfect time to dive off the yacht for a cooling swim.

And what better place to see some of Croatia’s secret harbours and villages than from your own yacht?

USEFUL WEBSITES

www.seamaster.co.uk www.activityyachting.com www.stamfordindependenttravel.co.uk

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VISIT OUR SHOWROOM VVI SI SI ITT OOUURR SS H H OOW WRROOOOMM

Open: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-3pm

Open: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-3pm

Tel: 01780 654321 Email: sales@classicstamford.co.uk

Open: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-3pm Tel: 01780 654321 Email: sales@classicstamford.co.uk www.classicstamford.co.uk www.classicstamford.co.uk 12 St Leonard’s Lincs PE9 2HN Tel: 01780 654321 Street, Email: Stamford, sales@classicstamford.co.uk 12 St Leonard’s Street, Stamford, Lincs PE9 2HN www.classicstamford.co.uk

12 St Leonard’s Street, Stamford, Lincs PE9 2HN

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Activelife

SPORT

RUGBY STARS TAKE ON GRAND TOUR OF CAMBRIDGESHIRE FOR CHARITY Around 65 riders joined a multi-national set of rugby stars including Jason Leonard OBE, Peter Rogers, François Mounier and JP Doyle – representing four of rugby’s big six northern hemisphere nations – at the annual Tour of Cambridgeshire Gran Fondo on Sunday, June 4.

Riding in support of the ATLAS Foundation, the charity founded by Leonard in 2015 to fund grassroots projects around the world, the ATLAS peloton raised a total of over £15,000.

Rutland Cycling, the official retail partner of the Tour of Cambridgeshire, supported the foundation for the second year running with free demo bikes, bike fitting and training advice, as well as technical support on site at the Tour and from its Peterborough store just a mile away. This year, two of the peloton even completed the ride on a tandem!

Jason Leonard said: “Success is measured for most in getting round the 60 or 80-mile route and having fun on the way. People lined the route and ATLAS riders were high-fiving the kids the whole way round – a great experience!

This year, the 65 riders raised over £15k for the school the ATLAS Foundation are building in conjunction with Philippe Sella’s charity in the Ivory Coast.”

The day before, a brave team of four took on the inaugural team time trial and with no practice or experience of team riding, creditably they didn’t come last.

Neil Blewitt, organiser of the ATLAS Foundation peloton, summed up the two days: “Sunday sunshine basked the Tour of Cambridgeshire’s welcome, hospitality and closed roads for the formation of the second ATLAS peloton. The support from Rutland Cycling for our pros and novices, helping getting them out on the road was fantastic and the tandem for François Mounier and his wife was a great hit!”

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Feature /// Watersports

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EAU SO GOOD! We might be landlocked, but there are still plenty of opportunities to get wet. Here are some of the best watersport venues in the region

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Feature /// Watersports

ADVENTURE RUTLAND

Based at Yarwell Mill Country Park between April to September on selective weekends, you can try stand-up paddle boarding (SUP), one of the fastest growing water sports in the world.

There’s a good reason why it is: SUP is fun, easily accessible for people of all ages and abilities, and is very social too on a river, lake or canal, as you can cruise along together having a chat.

With its instructors and kit to hire, Adventure Rutland’s base at the country park on flat water is an ideal place to start, grow your confidence and understand just how easy it is to get going.

Its taster sessions can be undertaken as an individual or in a group, while there are also River Nene trips to be booked. www.adventurerutland.com

RUTLAND WATER

The National Watersports Festival started the summer season at Rutland Water in spectacular style last month, with more than 4,000 in attendance and over 300 free taster sessions delivered by the team at Rutland Water.

One of the main aims of the festival this year was to highlight the many sports accessible on Rutland Water, whether you are a beginner or an experienced watersports enthusiast, with a full range of equipment and tuition available for SUPs, canoes, kayaks and powerboats.

Tuition is available for groups or individuals

by the hour, half day or day, so it is easy to slot into a busy lifestyle and accessible for all.

And don’t forget Rutland Sailing Club, one of the best UK locations for inland sailing. Cruise 3,000 acres of safe, non-tidal water, compete in a championship enjoy club racing and social activities, learn and improve sailing skills or simply just have fun with family and friends. www.anglianwater.co.uk/leisure/water-parks/rutland/ watersports/

AQUA PARK RUTLAND

Back for a second year following its highly successful launch in 2016, Aqua Park Rutland is gearing up to welcome families to the waterpark with its dedicated daily family slots. From Saturday July 15, every 10am slot will be reserved for families with children age 6–13, to allow kids to take over the park and run wet and wild.

The UK’s biggest water sports Aqua Park at Rutland Water this summer has more than doubled in size with over 36 fun and challenging obstacles to climb, jump, crawl, launch, slide and splash. This awesome adventure course provides an action-packed experience that offers challenge and excitement to all ages with obstacles such as Cyclone, the colossal Revolution, Jungle Jim, Kaos, Tango, Freefall Extreme and the Summit Express The park has also commissioned the UK’s tallest inflatable climbing wall, named ‘The

Beast’, a drop for only the biggest dare devils.

New obstacles also include the Action Tower XXL and the Ice Tower XXL providing a different set of challenges for guests to experience.

Tickets are priced at £20 for a 50-minute experience, including a free wetsuit and buoyancy aid in order to tackle the awesome obstacles, balance beams, climbing walls, trampolines, blast bags and many more which promise to deliver real excitement and very wet landings.

Due to current high demand, visitors and groups of any size must pre-book online to avoid disappointment. www.aquaparkrutland.co.uk

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25/06/2017 18:59

BOURNE OUTDOOR POOL

Lidos are enjoying a boom in the UK, and situated at the southern end of the tranquil and picturesque Abbey Lawn close to the centre of the historic market town of Bourne is a 50 yard near-Olympic sized heated pool – one of the largest of the few surviving outdoor pools of its type in the country.

In addition to the main pool, facilities include a toddlers pool, fountain pool, lawns with picnic tables and café. You can also hire it out for private parties and season tickets are available.

Email enquiries@bourneoutdoorswimmingpool.org or call 01778 422063 www.facebook.com/bourneoutdoorswimmingpool

NENE OUTDOORS

Nene Outdoors at Ferry Meadows Country Park sees its dedicated watersports lake over at Lakeside come to life during the summer months with watersports enthusiasts and visitors of all skill levels taking to the water for the many activities available including sailing, kayaking, canoeing and swan pedaloes.

Instructors are on hand for those who wish to learn a bit more with a range of courses, offering qualifications in sailing and windsurfing which are available on various dates throughout the year, and at all levels of experience.

In addition to these options, a one-star course is also available that looks at the basic skills

needed to control a kayak, canoe or stand-up paddle board. This is a stepping stone to become a paddler and can be progressed into two-star on completion.

Nene Outdoors also runs a Paddlepower Kids’ Club taught by qualified British Canoeing coaches. The sessions provide fun but logical progression through safety awareness, paddlesport skills, varied experiences and development through the British Canoeing Paddlepower Scheme. www.neneoutdoors.co.uk

NENE EXTREME ADVENTURES

Nene Extreme Adventures offer canoeing and kayaking trips from its base at the picturesque Oundle Wharf. Its range of boats includes stable and rugged single kayaks, inflatables and open four-man canoes suitable for families, and can be hired by the hour or by the day.

They can also drop you off upstream or collect you downstream at designated points along the river, meaning you need never paddle upstream.

There are also Summer Holiday Clubs, running every weekday throughout the school summer holidays from July 24 to September 1.

As well as canoeing and kayaking, the children will enjoy climbing on a 24ft climbing tower, archery, bushcraft and raft building. Book for a whole week and get a 20% discount. visit www.neneextreme.co.uk

USSC SWIMMING POOL

Even in summer there are times when you’d rather be inside, and there are a host of activities taking place in Uppingham School Sports Centre’s 25-metre swimming pool, from general swimming sessions for members and the general public, fitness classes such as Aqua and big inflatable Water Walker parties for children.

Home of the USSC swim school, people of all ages and abilities can learn to swim, improve technique and enjoy fun lessons with fully qualified instructors.

The centre also delivers a Royal Life Saving Society (UK) national pool lifeguarding qualification. This offers people from the age 16 the opportunity to gain the qualification and become a fully qualified pool lifeguard. The Centre is currently taking bookings for a course starting on July 13 – for more information please contact the reception team. www.sportscentre.uppingham.co.uk

TALLINGTON LAKES

With 205 acres of spring-fed water at Tallington Lakes, the selection of water sports activities is almost as large as the lakes. If you want to be towed behind a boat, sail one or even walk on water – you can!

Its waterski/wakeboard school instructors and boat drivers will look after you whether you are waterskiing on our tournament standard lake, getting air while jumping on a wakeboard, or even catching a wave while wake surfing.

Tallington Lakes has one of the highest rated water ski slalom course lakes in Europe, and boasts excellent water conditions for beginner’s right through to tournament standard skiers.

If you want to learn how to drive a power boat, you can even gain your speed boat driver Level 2 (SBD2) here too, which means you can then tow your friends and family on one of our members lakes.

At the water sports centre you can learn to sail a dinghy, windsurf, walk on water in one of the zorbs and paddle kayaks, canoes or stand-up paddleboards, while there are two lakes purely for jet skiing and one lake for R.Y.A. (Royal Yachting Association) tuition.

For those who would rather be in the water, not on it, there is open water swimming three times a week, in a lake marked out with buoys and an outside circuit distance of 750 metres. www.tallington.com

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25/06/2017 18:59

The New GLA. For all terrains

The new GLA is the compact SUV you’ve been waiting for, combining athletic good looks with agile handling and dynamic performance.

The re-worked exterior elements of the new GLA contribute to its distinguished design, while the interior uses premium quality materials and finishes to impressive effect.

Offering a range of equipment lines and packages to enhance comfort, safety and style there is a GLA for everyone.

Representative example GLA 200 AMG Line with metallic paint

36 monthly payments of*(Term of agreement) On-the-road price Customer deposit Retailer deposit contribution Optional final payment† Total amount of credit Total amount payable†† Purchase activation fee† Representative APR Fixed interest rate

£299 £28,465 £4,250 £1,534.76 £14,700 £22,680.24 £31,258.76 £10.00 5.0% 4.91%

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the new GLA range: urban 29.4(9.6)-56.5(5.0), extra urban 46.3(6.1)-80.7(3.5), combined 38.2(7.4)-67.3(4.2). CO2 emissions 172-108 g/km. Whilst this offer is only available through Mercedes-Benz Finance, we do arrange

finance on behalf of other finance companies as well. Model featured is a new GLA 200 AMG Line £28,465 on-the-road (on-the-road price includes VAT, delivery, 12 months’ Road Fund Licence, number plates, first registration fee and fuel). Specification imagery may show optional features. Content relating to finance is promoted by Mercedes-Benz Finance. Your Retailer may offer finance on behalf of other companies. *Finance offer based on a new GLA 200 AMG Line on a Mercedes-Benz Agility Agreement, on 10,000 miles per annum. Offer available exclusively at Robinsons Mercedes-Benz. Vehicle condition, excess mileage and other charges apply. †Payable if you exercise the option to purchase the car. ††Includes optional purchase payment, purchase activation fee and Retailer deposit contribution. Orders/ credit approvals on selected GLA models between 1 April and 30 June 2017, registered by 31 July 2017. Guarantees may be required. Offers cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Offer must be presented at beginning of sales negotiation. Some combinations of features/options may not be available. Credit provided subject to status by Mercedes-Benz Finance, MK15 8BA. Prices, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions correct at time of print.

The best or nothing.

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GLA Ad active.indd 1

07/06/2017 12:26

Feature /// Watersports

A WORLD OF WATER TO EXPLORE So you’ve finessed your skills locally – now it’s time to travel and create those once-in-a-lifetime moments.

Here are our favourite watery locations SURF THE SUPERTUBES

Sometimes referred to as ‘the mecca of all waves’, Supertubes (a section of Jeffreys Bay, in the Eastern Cape province in South Africa) is known to offer surfers right hand rides up to 300 metres long. Fast, consistent waves, especially between May and September, but very much for the advanced surfer. A regular World Surf League destination.

SCUBA DIVING IN BRISBANE

Australia is famous for surfing, but Brisbane is a mecca for scuba diving too, with an abundance of amazing wildlife to watch, but the highlight has to be diving HMAS Brisbane, a scuttled navy ship off the coast of the city that is an undersea home to an incredible array of sea creatures.

CATCH THE BREEZE AT LAC BAY

Lac Bay, Bonaire, a small Dutch Caribbean island 50 miles from Venezuela, has windsurfing for everyone. Trade winds blow steadily, temperatures average in the 80s and there is sunshine all year. In the bay, the water is calm, and knee deep for beginners, while intermediates surf the rougher conditions at its narrow mouth, with ten-foot swells beyond the reef for more adventurous types.

HIGH AS A KITE IN MOROCCO

Essaouira, on the coast of Morocco, has wind ranging from 25 knots to 35 knots pretty much most days in the summer, making it one of the best places for kitesurfing. A six-mile long beach means plenty of space while easy waves create perfect conditions to hone your technique.

WATERSKI WITH CLASS

CANOE TO CANADA

Waterskiing is an elegant activity redolent of film stars and vintage glamour, and the French Riviera is the perfect place to put it into action.

Ski at Juan-les-Pins where the first world championship took place in 1949, and if you have the budget, stay at the glorious art deco Belles-Rives hotel.

JET INTO MIAMI

Western Australia is a wakeboarder’s paradise.

The magnificent Lake Navarino is a short drive from Perth and here you can join the scores of thrill seekers on the wonderful waters of Waroona Dam. The lake sports a total of 358 acres of water, 220 of which are dedicated solely to water sports.

The Bowron Lakes canoe circuit in British Colombia is an almost unbroken 70-mile chain of lakes forming a natural circle so you can start and end at the same place. Just take everything you need with you for night-time stays in the established campsites, which are every 2km or so.

With its network of canals and long Atlantic beaches, Miami is a place to be seen and the place to play, ripping it up on your jetski, exploring the waterside bars and restaurants or racing out into the ocean. Not for the undemonstrative…

WAKE UP IN LAKE NAVARINO

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25/06/2017 19:00

Come and view our stunning new show homes

An impressive collection of one & two bedroom apartments and three & four bedroom houses, there’s a home for everyone at Oakthorpe from Kier Living. This exciting new development is perfectly situated in the cathedral city of Peterborough, which boasts a variety of attractions and amenities.

Sales & marketing suite open daily 10am - 5pm Thorpe Road, Peterborough, PE3 6AW

land & new homes

07864 997591 oakthorpe.sales@kier.co.uk

01733 311022 CGI of The Westhill indicative only. For more information on Help to Buy please speak to our Development Sales Managers.

Untitled-7 1

13/06/2017 13:30

Feature /// Watersports

KITBAG THE LATEST ESSENTIAL SPORTING GEAR 1. RED PADDLE RIDE SUP

One of the world’s most popular inflatable SUPs, probably due to its versatility. Glides and floats perfectly on flat water, and also reacts well when taken into the surf. The alloy ‘three piece’ paddle is an excellent entry level SUP paddle, with soft-grip EVA and ergonomic T-handle for comfort. The coiled leash doesn’t drag in the water, and is a great way to ensure you do not lose your board.

Price £848.99 From www.tallingtonlakesproshop.com

1.

2. Mountain Equipment kit bag

Tough and dependable, these duffle bags are made from highly durable waterproof tarpaulin and have reinforced straps. There’s a wide, u-shaped zipped lid for easy access, one internal mesh lid pocket for smaller items and another internal pocket to help keep wet and dry kit separate.

Price £45 From www.cotswoldoutdoor.com

3. Clever Kayak

Don’t have the space or facilities to store a kayak or canoe? The Clever Kayak, due to its small, portable size, will fit in the boot of most cars and assembly takes seconds with no tools required. The inner hull storage space means that you can carry all your necessities while you paddle, while the design allows you to put your feet in the water for turning.

Price £650 plus VAT From www.theclevercoopcompany.com/ clever-kayak

2.

3.

4. O’NEILL HYPERFREAK FUZE WETSUIT

This excellent full arm spring wetsuit features O’Neill’s exclusive Techno Butter 2 neoprene which is 20% lighter whilst absorbing up to 30% less water than standard neoprene. The front zip barrier system is ideal for surfing through waves and ensures any water that gets through the neck seal is quickly forced out through the drain holes ensuring you always stay warm and dry no matter the swell. The materials used and attention to detail makes this an inspired team favourite.

Price £134.95 From www.tallingtonlakesproshop.com

4.

5.

5. O’NEILL WOMENS BAHIA NEOPRENE JACKET

The Bahia has been redesigned providing women with a sense of beauty, personality and confidence on the water. Made from 100% UltraFlex, this neoprene jacket is super gooey for superior feel and flexibility. The seamless paddle zones to ensure no chafing occurs. An essential throughout the summer to make sure you stay warm and dry while looking great.

Price £64.95 From www.tallingtonlakesproshop.com

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25/06/2017 19:00

BURGHLEY PARK CRICKET CLUB

CRICKET WEEK & BEER FESTIVAL

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Day Games: 10.30am Sixes Competition - 6.00pm Live Band on Friday Night Real Ales Adnams Champagne Bar Oakham Ales Fancy Dress Friday

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23/06/2017 14:44

Guest column

The great British burden of being the favourite With England out of cricket’s Champions’ Trophy, Martin Johnson looks at our history of under-performing when fancied to win t didn’t require a crystal ball, or an indepth study of the tea leaves, to predict that England’s cricketers wouldn’t win the Champions’ Trophy. Just a glance at the pre-tournament hype was enough to tell you that the host country had two chances of winning. Slim, and none.

If the first clue came from the bookmakers, who came over all patriotic in quoting India as England’s only serious rivals, the nail in the coffin was provided by the home team’s wicketkeeper-batsman Sam Billings. Thrust in front of the microphones before the tournament, our Sam declared that the other seven countries were not just wary of England, but “petrified”.

If that doesn’t qualify as a kiss of death it’s hard to know what does. Sure enough, as soon as it came to the sudden death stages, a petrified Pakistani team, quaking uncontrollably in their boots, handed England the mother and father of all thrashings.

When it comes to top level sport, there is something about saddling an England team with the heavy yoke of favouritism which produces a chemical reaction not dissimilar to what you get from pouring salt on to a slug. It’s not pretty, and nearly always fatal.

This is why, every time an England team finds itself tipped to win something, it immediately triggers a defensive mechanism.

England’s technique is to claim that the opposition are such overwhelming favourites that if they manage to come away with anything less than a severe hiding, it’ll actually be a moral victory.

Rugby union is a good example. Before last winter’s Calcutta Cup game against Scotland at Murrayfield, England coach Eddie Jones not only described his side (within touching distance of the All Blacks’ record of 18 consecutive Test match wins) as “massive underdogs”, but somehow managed to keep a straight face while saying it. Needless to say, the massive underdogs won easily.

The only great English sporting achievement I can think of which began with a statement of bullish confidence was in 1966, when Alf Ramsey declared “we will win the World Cup”. Every other England manager, however, has steered well clear of making this kind of prediction, which is hardly surprising when you consider how often a team of complete no-hopers have been turned into world beaters merely by arranging a game against England.

Or at least an England burdened by the expectation of an easy victory, as was the case for a 1982 World Cup qualifier against

I

Norway in Oslo. The match was memorable not only for the home side winning 2-1, but for the commentary at the final whistle from a chap by the name of Bjorge Lillelren, who not only knew his football, but also had a decent knowledge of history. “Lord Nelson! Lord Beaverbrook! Sir Winston Churchill! Sir Anthony Eden! Clement Atlee! Henry Cooper! Lady Diana! Maggie Thatcher! Can you hear me Maggie Thatcher?! We gave your boys a hell of a beating!!”

It ought to be included in sixth form science, alongside Newton’s law of gravity, that the more you write up an England team the worse they perform.

You only have to look at successive Ashes series in the late 1980s.

When England arrived in Australia in 1986-87, they found themselves being described as the worst team ever to visit the country, which, needless to say, propelled them to an Ashes triumph.

Conversely, when Australia made the reverse journey in 1989, England were widely regarded as odds-on certainties to retain the Ashes. It ended up with England producing such a sustained standard of incompetence that Australia could have sent over the Toowoomba Girl Guides XI and still regained the Ashes.

We’ve not seen too many England favourites succumb to the burden of favouritism in men’s tennis, mostly because we haven’t produced many male tennis players who’ve ever been made favourites. The one exception was Tim Henman in 2001. On this occasion Tim had raised the nation’s hopes to something close to fever pitch, and Henmania was turning into an out of control virus.

However, there was one obvious way to find a cure for Henmania, and making Tim favourite did the trick. Having dispatched Roger Federer in the quarter-final, he was heavily fancied to beat Goran Ivanisevic in the semi, which ended with him surrendering a 2-1 lead in sets in a match spanning three days because of rain.

Tim, like so many other English sportsmen and women, found it impossible to overcome the burden of favouritism. Let’s face it. The English much prefer plucky losers to ruthless winners, which is why – as that Norwegian football commentator doubtless knows – Henry Cooper went on to make pots of money advertising aftershave, and Tim had a Hill named after him.  Martin Johnson has been a sports journalist and author since 1973, writing for the Leicester Mercury, The Independent, The Daily Telegraph and The Sunday Times. He currently writes columns for The Rugby Paper and The Cricket Paper, and has a book out called ‘Can I Carry Your Bags?’.

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23/06/2017 13:36

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10/05/2016 16:17

ACTIVE BODY HOW TO MAINTAIN GOOD POSTURE, THE BEST NEW SPORTS KIT IDEAS, AND TIPS ON HOW TO DRESS TO IMPRESS ON HOLIDAY

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25/06/2017 19:09

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24/03/2017 16:09

ACTIVE BODY

GET IT BACK Hany Elmadbouh, founder and senior consultant at Peterborough’s newest private healthcare facility Avicenna Clinic, explains why back pain shouldn’t stop you from living life to the full Feet pounding the pavement. Tyres gliding across the Tarmac. The chill of water on your face. The delicate smell of dewy grass in the morning.

Just some of the senses of our favourite pastimes; our escape from the hub-bub of the world, when it’s us against the elements, us against ourselves, or us against our opponent.

For most active people, nothing is more frustrating than an injury or ailment that stops you from enjoying what you love.

But as we jump, bend, twist, crouch and stretch, our bodies undergo stress and pressure. And whether you’re a semiprofessional, an enthusiast or a relative beginner, the chances are that, at some point, you will suffer from an injury.

Most injuries are minor – accompanied by a little pain and discomfort that lasts a day

or so. Others can be debilitating. Back pain, in particular, can see sufferers’ entire lives change as they look for ways to manage their discomfort and avoid scenarios that make it worse; forcing changes to their social lives and, in some cases, leading to depression.

Surprisingly, 80% of us will experience some form of back pain in our lives; whether it’s a strain from lifting something incorrectly or a more serious trauma from an accident or injury.

In fact, it is estimated that 2.5 million people in the UK suffer from back pain every single day and more than a million are classified as disabled because of their chronic pain.

Thanks to its intricate design, the spine, along with ligaments, tendons and muscles, help us to enjoy freedom of movement that

enables us to enjoy our favourite activities and pastimes. This column of 24 bones, stretching from the base of the skull to the pelvis, creates strength, structure, stability and supports movement. However, thanks to its complex make-up, it can also be the source of constant and disruptive pain.

Over the years, advice for how to deal with back pain has varied greatly, from suggesting we ‘rest up’ and ‘take it easy’ to advising that we keep active and keep moving. However, the reality can be more difficult than the theory and, often, movement is not an option; regardless of how much we may want to get back to our favourite hobby.

For most people, their first port of call will be self-treatment from over-the-counter medications before looking for some form of professional help/therapy from a physiotherapist, osteopath or chiropractor.

By using exercise, movement, stretching, massage and manipulation in different ways, these therapies focus on increasing mobility and strength, whilst reducing pain.

Recent scientific research however suggests that back pain is rarely a simple problem. It is influenced by psychological and social factors and requires treatment tailored to the individual’s needs.

There is rarely a ‘silver bullet’ treatment and a simple course of something like physiotherapy, while it may help with rehabilitation and ease discomfort, may not treat the root cause of the problem; potentially leaving a latent issue as a ticking time bomb for the future.

Avicenna Clinic, based in the centre of Peterborough, takes a holistic approach to understanding and treating back pain.

Starting with a medical diagnosis, patients see a consultant to discuss their individual circumstances and history. With X-ray and ultrasound facilities on site, as well as the region’s only open MRI scanner, patients can undergo all investigative scans and receive their diagnosis and treatment plan on the same day.

Avicenna Clinic delivers consistent and personalised care, tailored to your specific needs to help treat the immediate pain, reduce the longer-term impact and get you back on your feet, doing what you love, as quickly as possible.

Avicenna Clinic, 1 North Street Peterborough, PE1 2RA T: 0330 202 0597 F: 01733 516 014 E: info@avicennaclinic.com W: www.avicennaclinic.com

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25/06/2017 19:11

Photography: SLL

Cardiac (Phase 4) Rehabilitation Cardiac rehabilitation is available to anyone who has had a heart attack, coronary angioplasty, heart surgery or stable angina.

Tuesdays 1.00 - 2.30pm Catmose Sports Centre, Huntsmans Drive, Oakham, LE15 6RP

Wednesdays 1.30 - 3.00pm Inspire2tri, St Mary’s Road, Manton, LE15 8SU £3 per session 01572 758200 activerutlandhealth@rutland.gov.uk www.activerutland.org.uk Active Mag July 2017 Artwork.indd 1

14/06/2017 12:49:17

ACTIVE BODY “You might not notice it in your posture to start with you might notice some other aches and pains, however, within a couple of months to years you will likely start to notice a change in your posture.”

Do: “Exercise, if someone does a lot of exercise or strengthening work like Pilates and are aware of their core muscles and the way that they should sit and stand, poor posture shouldn’t have such an effect on them. It’s about finding that balance, long periods of sitting and inactivity can lead to health risks such as cardiovascular issues, diabetes and respiratory problems.”

Know your stance and stretch Don’t: “Often when people sit, especially at computers, their neck strains forward out of alignment which puts excessive strain on the muscles of the neck and the shoulders and could lead to regular headaches. When we sit with poor posture, we often slump and hunch forwards, rounding our backs, influencing the shoulders and causing them to roll inwards. This results in tightness through the muscles around the front of the body, and further influences your diaphragm and breathing .”

Do: “Make time to stretch. Animals instinctively stretch after lying down for a long time and we wouldn’t necessarily instinctively think to do this.”

Claire McKenna gives us a clearer understanding of five simple changes we can make to perfect it and reduce pain.

Shake off the stress Don’t: “In stressful situations the added level of stress means the way that you hold yourself is very different. Stress increases your acceptance to pain; initially short term the effects of adrenaline on the nervous system means you probably don’t feel pain developing. The long-term effects of the stress hormone can lead to chronic pain and central sensitisation, essentially when the body starts to feel pain that actually isn’t there; the tissues have changed to the point where they feel pain even if it isn’t being stimulated” Do: “Re-educate the body, and learn how to support the body’s system to be able to move back to a normal function. Your body will find that position where it feels comfortable, this can be good short-term but if the posture is poor, it can lead to detrimental problems down the line.”

Stay active, not stagnant Don’t: “Sit for long periods of time, this is one of the worst things you can do as it may shorten your hip muscles, essentially increasing the effects of the lordosis (the curve in your low back), increasing the risk for low back pain, amongst other things. If you are doing something repetitively like sitting, and you are in that position for a long time and you are not stretching regularly you may find that imbalances between the muscles in the front and the back of your body develop quite quickly.

Sleep on it Don’t: “Have a mattress that is older than 10 years. You don’t want a mattress that is too hard or too soft either.”

Do: “Invest in a good pillow. One should be enough as having more will cause a strain in the neck, but equally, you need to have the neck supported. You want your whole spine to be in alignment. You can put pillows in between your legs to support your pelvis, or hugging a pillow to stop the shoulders collapsing. You want the muscles to relax and lengthen overnight.”

STRIKE A POSE! There are simple changes you can make to your posture to boost your health. Here are five handy hints...

Poor posture can affect every aspect of daily life but many choose to ignore it, making the overall side effects worsen overtime. Research shows that 71% of those suffering with back pain have been doing so for up to 10 years but, amazingly, many admit to not taking proactive measures to take care of their backs.

Posture expert Claire McKenna reveals: “Not only is good posture important to reduce the effects of load on the muscular skeletal system, it also influences the respiratory system, the cardiovascular system and the neurological systemessentially, all areas of the body.”

There are common misconceptions when it comes to posture, but expert

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23/06/2017 13:37

ACTIVE BODY

KITBAG THE LATEST ESSENTIAL SPORTING GEAR 1.

READER OFFER: FREE NECK LANYARD 1. Snowbee Blue Revo sports sunglasses NEW for 2017

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A modern twist, on a retro style. Rectangular, with black gloss TR-90 frame these new Snowbee sports sunglasses use the latest Tri-Acetate Cellulose (TAC) lenses with Smoke-Blue Revo mirror finish. This lightweight material offers superb polarisation, coupled with outstanding, distortion-free optical clarity and a hard scratch resistance coating. Comes with hard protective clip on case with belt clip and cleaning cloth.

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Ultra-lightweight black wraparound frames with TAC polarised lens with side panels, to cut glare from all reflected light. Rubberised frame arm pads for additional grip. This model floats, making it particularly popular for all types of water sports.

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Certified protection at remarkably great value with a feature rich design, the Align helmet is available in one size that fits all heads between 54-62cm.

Price £34.99 From www.rutlandcycling.com

5. Camelbak Skyline Low Rider

The Skyline packs are designed to give you maximum stability during downhill rides. The lumbar design keeps your water and cargo stowed low, providing a lower center of gravity which gives you more stability.

Price £99.99 From www.rutlandcycling.com

6.

5.

6. Rab kit bag 50L

The expedition bag is built to withstand the rigours of world travel and expeditions. It has been designed to keep your gear secure and easily transportable with padded rucksack straps and multiple haul handles as well as lash points.

Price £50 From www.cotswoldoutdoor.com

3 8 J U L Y 2 0 17 ///

38 KITBAG OK.indd 38

25/06/2017 19:14

Holiday fun for 2017 at Uppingham

With a wide range of different courses and camps for children and adults in the summer holidays, there really is something to suit all interests!

Music Science Sport

Drama Art Baking

Technology Creative Writing

For further information and to book:www.uppinghamsummerschool.co.uk Like us on Facebook

39.indd 1

Residential options are offered on all courses held in the summer.

Subsidised places are available on a number of courses courtesy of the Windmill House Trust.

summerschool@uppingham.co.uk

01572 820800

Follow us on Twitter

23/06/2017 14:44

ACTIVE BODY

10 TOP TIPS FOR A HEALTHY BBQ The BBQ season is upon us, but it’s easy to gorge on too much meat and calorie-laden side dishes.

Here are some ideas for a healthier version of the nation’s favourite summer pastime 1. Get your proteins right Fish, skinless chicken breast and lean ground poultry are all healthier choices.

The good fats in fish such as salmon and trout actually have health benefits. And when you grill with skill, your guests won’t even miss the red meat, which usually has more saturated fat. Wrap marinated fish fillets in foil, construct colourful chicken kebabs, or make more savoury turkey burgers by mixing minced portabello mushrooms and onions into the patties. If you do choose meat or pork, get loin or ‘round’ cuts and ‘choice’ or ‘select’ grades of beef instead of ‘prime’.

marinade or a tablespoon of spice rub for each pound of food.

4. Add colour Just about all your favourite colourful fruits and veggies can be grilled, alone or in kebabs, giving them delicious flavour that might win over even the most committed carnivore. The trick is to cut them into pieces that will cook quickly and evenly. Brush with a healthy oil to prevent sticking or use a grill basket to keep them out of the line of fire. Some favourites include asparagus, avocado, peppers, corn, mushrooms, onions, potatoes, squash and courgettes.

2. Portion control A healthy portion of any type of meat is about three ounces, or the size of a deck of cards, and definitely no more than six ounces. If that sounds small, just remember all the delicious grilled veggies and side dishes that will be keeping it company on your plate!

5. Trim fat Buy skinless poultry or remove the skin before cooking. Trim away any visible fat on meat. Brush or marinate foods with a healthy cooking oil. And let it drip – make sure fat drips away from the food while it cooks.

3. Marinate Marinating or rubbing spices on poultry, fish and meat can add amazing flavour with the bonus of being able to use less salt. All you need is about a cup of

6. Grill simply Don’t drown your masterpiece in salty sauces, sugary condiments or heavy dressings. Use as little of these as possible, and try making your own

healthier condiments. And sometimes, a simple squeeze of lemon or lime is all it needs.

7. Choose healthier sides Swap fare like coleslaw and potato salad – which can have a lot of saturated fat, sodium and added sugars – for homemade versions. Or do a colourful bean salad, fruit salad or leafy salad.

8. Make your buns wholegrain Wholegrain baps and breads will complement your healthy feast with extra fibre, flavour and texture. If you’re watching your calories and carbs, try an open-faced burger or lettuce wrap.

9. Grill fruits for dessert The natural sugars caramelise in the high heat, giving them extra sweetness and flavour. Try sliced apple, pear or pineapple or halved bananas, figs, nectarines, peaches or plums.

10. Keep it clean OK, so this isn’t the fun part, but be sure to scrub down the grill after each use.

Removing leftover burnt pieces of food stuck to the grill prevents burning, smoking fat and tainted flavours.

4 0 J U LY 2017 ///

40 BODY nutrition OK.indd 41

23/06/2017 18:27

Get back to what you love doing!

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41.indd 1

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23/06/2017 16:29

ACTIVE BODY

THE FINISHING TOUCHES Summer’s here so that means it’s holiday season. Here’s some advice on what to wear to look good by the pool or on the beach Edited by Mary Bremner

SWIMWEAR FOR ALL It’s summer so thoughts must turn to swimwear, an item of clothing that many dread.

Forget the ‘beach body’ crash diets, if you have been keeping fit all year there should be no need to have a mad panic. You are what you are so embrace the beach in all your glory. The problem is when it comes to swimwear, what suits certain body shapes and are you ever too old to wear a bikini? Opinion varies on this one but I think, if you are comfortable wearing one, why not?

And remember bikinis can be as revealing or concealing as you like – tankinis are everywhere. The main thing to remember is that swimwear should make you feel good.

A couple of tips. Try on lots of different suits and different styles and get outside your comfort zone as you may well find a new favourite.

Pear shapes should draw attention away from the hips upwards so go for a plunging neckline or eyecatching top. Avoid boy shorts, the extra fabric will draw attention to your larger hips. Larger busts need more support. Opt for underwired or moulded cups and avoid ruffles.

Pick out bikinis and suits that offer specific cup sizes. The thicker the straps the more support you get.

Small busts are the opposite, triangle tops create the illusion of curves, as do patterns. It also means you are able to wear bandeau tops so will be the envy of many.

The athletic body, ie straight up and down, is ideal for the monokini as they create the illusion of curves.

The smaller the bikini bottom the fuller and curvier the bottom looks.

Tummy concealing isn’t a problem when it comes to swimwear. Shirring works miracles, hides bulges and creates definition. Try a high waisted suit or a tankini.

There’s always a style to suit any body shape, but, most importantly, feel comfortable, relax, enjoy the sun, slap on the suntan lotion and wear a big smile.

4 2 J U L Y 2 0 17 ///

42-43 Fitness beauty OK.indd 42

25/06/2017 19:15

And finally...

Swimsuits to suit all shapes

Cabo bikini £56, for the big busted www.bravissimo.com

AND RELAX… Ragdale Hall is a beautiful mansion sat in acres of grounds in the Leicestershire countryside. It’s also one of the best known spas in the country having won numerous awards. There is constant investment in the facilities, including a new roof top infinity pool due to open at the end of the summer.

Walk through the impressive main entrance and you are immediately welcomed by friendly staff who show you around and discuss your day with you. The place is huge with more than 50 treatment rooms and 150 therapists alone. But don’t let this put you off; despite being full to capacity we never felt crowded, in fact it was surprising how few people you see on your day. Spa facilities were quiet as there is room to absorb everyone. The tranquil atmosphere prevails wherever you are.

Running like a well-oiled machine, everything is just so easy for the guests; you don’t have to think, just go with the flow and let the excellent staff look after you. As soon as I got my robe on I felt relaxed, it was like the worries of the world had been removed with my clothes.

There is plenty to keep you occupied.

Make sure you take your gym gear as there are plenty of classes on offer, such as pilates, zumba, tai chi, studio cycling and many more, as well as an extremely well equipped gym. If water is more your thing there are aquatone classes with lots of variation and a 25m indoor pool. All of these classes are included in the price.

If you are only there for the day you will barely have time to do any because the thermal spa has so much to offer. Laid out in a semi-circle, you drift from one experience to another. The candle pool was a favourite. Descending into a dark cavern, the water is warm, the pool candles lit, with fairy lights in the ceiling.

Silence is requested in this pool and the

tranquil atmosphere, with soothing music, can’t help but make you relax. By the time we’d sampled the spa and all its delights and had a good session in the pool and jacuzzi it was time for a delicious buffet lunch in the wood-panelled dining room.

After eating to our heart’s content a stroll around the grounds was in order.

You can hop on a bike to explore or take part in an organised walk. We managed to stroll past the tennis courts, taking in the croquet lawn before having a rest in the cocoon. You must try this, it’s like a tent hanging from a tree – a bit like a hammock but you’re completely enclosed. I could quite happily have snoozed the afternoon away. But our treatments were due shortly so it was a quick stroll a bit further towards the outdoor pool. There are seats dotted everywhere so you can find a quiet corner to relax and enjoy the view.

My treatment was a 50-minute face and back therapy. This was a back massage and cleanse and tone to the face and neck followed by a short facial massage and moisturise. And it was fabulous, so relaxing that I dozed off. The other treatment offered in our package (a refresh and revive day, prices start at £143), a back massage and hand therapy, was just as well received.

After a day of pampering I felt completely recharged. Next time I’m going to stay overnight (and there will definitely be a next time). www.ragdalehall.co.uk

Pretty Little Thing crochet bikini £25, for the athletic figure www.asos.com

Cromer Bandeau bikini £37, for the small breasted www.jackwills.com

Secret slimming ruched swimsuit £25, to conceal the midriff www.marksandspencer.com

/// J U L Y 2 0 17 4 3

42-43 Fitness beauty OK.indd 43

25/06/2017 19:15

07818 226565 adventurerutland@gmail.com

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ACTIVE LOCAL WE DISCOVER HOW UFFINGTON IS INVESTING IN ITS YOUNG CRICKETERS, CATCH UP WITH THE ACTIVE/RUTLAND CYCLING BIKE WINNER AND TAKE A WALK AROUND FOTHERINGHAY

/// J U L Y 2 0 17 4 5

45 SR LOCAL OPENER OK.indd 45

25/06/2017 19:25

ACTIVE LOCAL

A day in the life of

NEIL THOMAS GOVERNOR OF HMP STOCKEN

I

started my working life as an officer in the Royal Tank Regiment.

After leaving the Army I worked in construction project management building schools, social housing and even helping design a sports stadium for the Saudi royal family. In corporate life I soon realised the things I found most rewarding involved doing things for the benefit of others.

In the Army I led a troop of soldiers predominantly from inner city Glasgow and Birkenhead. Some had come from similar backgrounds to the men we have in custody today but had made very different life choices. Having seen soldiers develop and grow in the Army I realised I wanted to do something purposeful to help change people’s lives in civvy street so I picked the prison service.

Social inequality I come from a typically middle class family and grew up in the wilds of Dartmoor. When I first joined the prison service at HMP Pentonville I had a pretty limited view of the world. Early on I remember I locked the cell door of a young lad the same age as me and when I went home that evening I couldn’t stop thinking about him. I’d been talking to him about his life growing up as the only man of the house after his father had left, how he lived with four siblings and his mother in a two-bed flat and how he was pressured into joining a London gang for safety and for friends.

I wondered if he had been born into my life and I had been born into his, would our roles have been reversed? It highlighted to me for the first time the inequality that exists in some parts of our society. I’m often frustrated that so many young men and women go to prison, but we are here to try and help them to turn their lives around.

In prison we undertake interventions and give people the guidance and structure they’ve perhaps been lacking outside. We can help address any drug or mental health issues, assist them with debt management, housing and being a better father. We do turn people’s lives around, we don’t succeed every time but it’s a hugely positive and rewarding environment to work in. You develop a real passion for working in prisons and there’s absolutely nothing like it.

HMP Stocken is a category C prison, and we typically hold men who are serving four years or longer. Ideally a prisoner on a longer sentence would progress down the categorisation scale to open conditions prior to release.

At Stocken we have 843 prisoners and we’re building a new wing which will take us to 1,056. I’m responsible for more than 400 staff including prison officers, support staff, chaplaincy and our partner groups such as Care UK which runs our medical department providing primary care, dentistry, opticians, pharmacists, mental health and substance misuse teams. We’re probably one of the biggest employers in Rutland with every conceivable career on offer. Currently we’re recruiting prison officers, operational support grades and management graduates through a two-year leadership development programme.

Stocken is a good prison with a very professional team of staff. We have a low rate of violence and less than 1% of our prisoners test positive for drugs. The overall purpose of the prison service is to protect the public by reducing reoffending and Stocken is doing a fantastic job. We offer rail track work so prisoners can work with Network Rail and other organisations on release. We have street works, which is a similar scheme but for street paving and hard standing so they can get a job with the Highways Agency or local councils. We’ve got two bicycle repair workshops, farms and gardens and we make camouflage netting for the military. We offer plumbing, tiling and other City & Guilds training so prisoners can become tradesmen, and our education department offers

“You develop a real passion for working in prisons” level one and two English and maths, presentation skills and CV writing amongst other subjects. Stocken is a jewel in the prison service’s crown and I’m so proud to have been appointed as governor.

The role of the prison governor is threefold. Morally I’m here to set the best example I can. Politically I’m responsible for delivering the Government’s directives for prison reform. Operationally I’m responsible for the day to day decision making in conjunction with my team.

With the new building work I’m going to have a new workshop and I’m very interested in speaking to local businesses and charities that might want to get involved with us to produce things for the local community and give the men skills to help them gain employment on release.

I’ve moved around a lot and I jumped at the chance to work in such wonderful surroundings. My partner and I love the countryside and getting out and about with our dogs. Rutland is absolutely beautiful, Stocken is a fantastic place to work and I’m very much looking forward to putting down roots in the county. http://unlockedgrads.org.uk https://www.prisonandprobationjobs.gov.uk/

4 6 J U LY 2017 ///

46 SR Local DILO OK.indd 46

23/06/2017 20:22

NEED CARE? Savings over £23,250?

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NEW DAY NURSERY COMING TO STAMFORD SOON

OPENING AUTUMN 2017

For more details contact Jo O’Bryan-Tear or Helen Watson Tel: 01780 482113 I thearknursery@keme.co.uk I www.thearkstamford.co.uk

D AY N U R S E R Y

S TA M F O R D

ACTIVE LOCAL

WHICH IS MY TEAM? Harry Brooks, who has entered the Clipper Round the World yacht race, updates us on progress so far THE LAST FEW MONTHS have been a whirlwind for me. The 600-plus crew members taking part in this year’s race all made their way to Portsmouth’s Guild Hall in May to find out which boat we will be sailing on this year.

All of this year’s 12 professional skippers, who will be in charge of around 20 amateurs on board the multi-million pound yachts, were sat on the stage. They each read out their team

members and we split off into different rooms to discuss how the team would be run, and all the important stuff like what our team song will be!

I will be on the UNICEF boat under the watchful eye of skipper Tristan Brooks, joining them in December in Australia.

The charity has been allocated a boat in the race for the second year. It is a fantastic opportunity for them to further their global

brand and message. It is an honour to serve on Team UNICEF and I am thoroughly looking forward to taking part and supporting them.

While this race is not a charity event, and there is no difference between the boats, or the way that the teams are allocated, it will have a special significance for us if we can use this amazing opportunity to do some good while we race around the world.

Over the next few weeks things are starting to build up to the start of the race on August 20.

The big announcement over the last few months has been the start and finish port of this year’s race. For the second time in Clipper Race history it will be starting and finishing at Albert Dock in Liverpool. This will make for a fantastic festival atmosphere with events taking place all week building up to the start.

There have been a few changes en route too, the biggest being the destination of the first leg which was to be Rio de Janeiro. But this year the race will sail straight past Rio down to Punta Del Este in Uruguay for the first time ever. This should add some excitement to the final sprint to be the first clipper boat into Uruguay.

I am very much looking forward to the start as it means me joining the race in December is getting closer. I’m preparing for this by bonding with my new team, and honing my skills. I am delighted to be working as a sailing instructor at Rutland Sailing School. This is a fantastic establishment with excellent facilities and I’m gaining loads of experience. It is always very clear on the big yachts who has been a dinghy sailor. The skills learnt in the small boats transfer well and makes you a huge asset for the team.

Please do get in touch if you are interested in hearing about my experiences, or have some of your own you would like to share.

Harry.g.brooks@btinternet.com

Ice creams and Iceland

THORPE HALL Hospice nurses Sylvia Reid and Catherine Cole and fellow trekker Alison Chisnall have been making the most of the sunshine to step up training for their forthcoming Iceland adventure.

But they’ve been making sure they mix in some fun too, timetabling in an ice cream stop on their latest training walk at Grafham Water!

“We’re counting down in weeks now rather than months as we leave on August 10,” said Sylvia, “and I’m definitely starting to feel the pressure. We walked 10.5 miles on a really hot day – the furthest I’ve gone.

“We look shattered in this picture, and I certainly felt it, but it was the next day that I really noticed it. My thighs really ached and I was walking like a puppet for quite a bit of the day.”

With three days of walking, mountains to scale, rivers to wade through and ice and rock fields to negotiate, Sue Ryder nurses Sylvia and Catherine are keen to give themselves the best chance of completing the challenge.

Sylvia said: “The team at Empire Gym in Market Deeping have given me some good stretching exercises that I can do at the end of each day’s walking.

“All this training has given me calf muscles which I’ve never had before – despite regularly walking around our in-patient unit during a 12-hour shift!”

Their fund-raising has continued

alongside their training as they both aim for their £2,450 target.

Most recently they held a bake sale at the hospice.

Catherine said: “Everyone has been so supportive of our efforts. I think they realise how big a deal this is for us and they’re keen to give us a bit of a boost by helping out with fund-raising.”

Sue Ryder has recently announced its international treks and challenges for next year. If you’d like to follow in Sylvia and Catherine’s footsteps there’s lots of information on the website www. sueryder.org or call Thorpe Hall’s fund-raising team on 01733 225999.

4 8 J U LY 2017 ///

48-49 SR Local Challenge OK.indd 48

25/06/2017 19:28

THE FINAL PUSH JESS LAMB updates us on training for the final marathon of the 321 Challenge...

The finish line is almost in sight.

All that now stands between the 321 Marathon Challenge and glorious victory is Alex and Jess tackling the Midnight Sun Marathon, officially the northernmost marathon in the world. It takes place in Tromso, a small Norwegian town inside the Arctic Circle. And as the name suggests, the natural phenomenon where the sun stays visible 24 hours a day means the runners set off at 8:30pm in full daylight, which will seem slightly weird.

Now we’ve only got to run 52.4 more miles between us. If only it will be as easy as it sounds. We also have to cope with a 45-metre uphill climb over an enormous bridge – twice. But despite this, the Midnight Sun Marathon is a really exciting one, a unique ‘experience’ race than the two rather more mainstream marathons we’ve tackled so far.

While Alex has stuck to his usual ‘two training runs per marathon’ philosophy and will undoubtedly make the whole thing look easy, I’ve found it a little harder to stay motivated. I rewarded myself after the Rome Marathon with three weeks’ rest time, which turned into four, then five – you get the picture.

It’s very easy to sink another gin and tell yourself that you will definitely run tomorrow. It’s just that ‘tomorrow’ became quite a loose term. But I dug deep and have finally got back into the swing of things and am enjoying some last training runs, including a beautifully sunny 17-mile jog around Rutland Water, and some painful but necessary hill sprints

to try and prepare for the dreaded bridge.

I’ve also found a bit more mental strength. In Rome my nerves definitely got the better of me, but this time I am feeling much more composed and confident. My advice for any aspiring long-distance runner is that it’s as much about your mindset as it is your body, and a healthy positive attitude is just as valuable as physical training.

I’m not saying turn up on the day with a big smile on your face having done absolutely no training, that would be stupid.

But don’t under-estimate the power of the mind either.

Confidence and self-belief are great tools of the trade when it comes to running marathons.

The team injury count still remains pretty healthy (or unhealthy, depending on how you look at it) with both James and Alex still experiencing some of the most interesting toenail colours I’ve ever seen almost two months on from the Rome Marathon.

James has retained all of his so far, but Alex’s are dropping off at quite an extraordinary rate. Alex has also been having some problems with his old knee complaint. He’s also picked up a swollen ankle from somewhere, having no idea what he’s done to it, so is spending the last couple of weeks before Norway resting with an ice pack or two – and remaining supremely confident…

We’re almost at the end of the challenge but all donations and last minute support for the 321 Challenge remain very welcome.

Four marathons down, two to go ... wish us luck for the final push! www.virginmoneygiving.com/ team/321marathonchallenge

VARIETY IS THE SPICE OF LIFE JOANNA ESPIN and Dan Swan tell us how they keep motivated by mixing up their training...

It’s got to that fatal time. The run is still a while away, you’ve been training for a couple of months and boredom is beginning to settle in. So what do you do to recharge the batteries and focus on the goal ahead, The Perkins Great Eastern Run? Both Dan and Joanna are good at mixing their training up to add variation. Dan took a month off after the London Marathon as he needed a rest and had picked up a lower back injury. “I’d gone a bit stale after all the long training runs so went on holiday, had some fun and put training on the back burner for a month,” he told us.

“Jonny, my sports therapist at Fusion 3 Fitness, also advised me to have a break to get the lower back injury sorted, so I took his advice.”

He is now back training, running, cycling and in the gym circuit training. Dan cycles a lot in the summer and hates running in the heat so runs in the evenings when it’s cooler.

Dan doesn’t really struggle with motivation but does find mixing training up keeps him fresh and interested.

“I found I needed to have a rest after the marathon to get the love back for running and training,” he added.

Joanna is another who mixes her training. She’s just completed the Great North Swim which was a mile across

Windermere. Her training regime is varied but constant – Monday a short run or swim, Wednesday a jumping class in Stamford or short run, likewise Thursday. Saturday swimming and Sunday an open water swim or longer run. She also has a treadmill at home that she can use if she can’t get out, being a busy single mum.

“As I mix the training I don’t get bored,” she said. “If I’m running outside the scenery always keeps me motivated and I think through all the things that have been going on during the week. The treadmill is a bit more laborious but I’ve got movies and music to keep me occupied. If I find motivation lacking it’s usually self-doubt creeping in. But I give myself a good talking to and get on with it. Exercise itself makes me feel good so that is usually motivation enough.”

Joanna doesn’t mind the heat as much as Dan but tends to run early mornings or late afternoons in areas where there’s a bit more shade.

So there you have it, variety is the spice of life when it comes to training. Mix and match what you do to ensure you don’t go stale and lose motivation.

/// J U L Y 2 0 17 4 9

48-49 SR Local Challenge OK.indd 49

25/06/2017 19:29

ACTIVE LOCAL /// Cricket

5 0 J U LY 2017 ///

50-53 Local feature SR OK.indd 50

25/06/2017 19:36

PROUD TO SUPPORT LOCAL SPORT

BAT TO THE

FUTURE

Despite national media reports to the contrary, junior cricket is thriving in our area. Jeremy Beswick visits Uffington, which typifies the resurgence Photography: Pip Warters

THE JUNIOR AND YOUTH SECTIONS of our local cricket clubs are vital to the long-term health of the game and the lifeblood of many village sides, providing much needed revenue, feeding new talent into the senior teams and eventually yielding a high proportion of those indispensable volunteers behind the scenes.

When these are thriving we can be confident that there’ll still be plenty of quality cricket to watch in ten years’ time, so it was a delight to visit the beautiful village of Uffington and its equally scenic cricket ground to learn about their own set up for the little ones. If it’s true that they are the club’s future then, as I was about to learn, Uffington’s is surely a bright one.

Knowing the ground was difficult to find (it’s approached by a long single-track unmade road just outside the village) I arrived early and met volunteer Harry Carter, a leg spinner come the weekend – and one who’d recently had a ‘five-for’ to boot – and coach for the juniors on Wednesday evenings. Still only 18 himself, Harry’s been doing this here for five years having started as part of the Duke of Edinburgh Awards and enjoyed it so much he’s kept it up.

“It’s great when you teach a young one a particular skill and then see them execute it for real in a game,” he said.

Active’s Dean Cornish plays for the adult sides here and he had showed up to help too, something nearly all of the seniors do from time to time. Almost before I knew it, the field was full of noisy, happy under-9s and I settled down to watch for a while. There’s something timeless about a ground where the only building you can see is the pavilion and for a while I drifted into my own thoughts. My reverie was broken by the

head of the junior section, James Genever. James goes back a long way with this club having started here at the age of 10 in the mid-80s and his forefathers go back even further, the club having originally played on ‘Genever’s Field’.

Whilst we’re talking for a moment about the past as opposed to the future, their impressive new pavilion contains a copy of an article from the Stamford Mercury dated the 17th of September 1857. It reads: “The inhabitants of Uffington, determined not to be behind other villages in providing something of a recreative character for summer evenings’ amusement, have this year established a cricket club, which has progressed favourably. On Monday last the

members, with several friends from the neighbourhood, played a friendly match. In the evening, they all partook of a good substantial dinner provided by host Cooper of the Bertie’s Arms, after which several songs were sung, health drunk and toasts given.”

But back to the present.

“Sometimes these sessions have been so popular it’s been more a case of crowd control than coaching,” James said. “But we’re close to a happy medium now. A few more at the youngest age and at under-15s, when they go from 8-a-side to 11, would make it perfect.”

One thing he’s rightly proud of is they’re able to field an all-girl side, one of the very first to do

/// J U L Y 2 0 17 5 1

50-53 Local feature SR OK.indd 51

25/06/2017 19:37

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ACTIVE LOCAL /// Cricket

so for many a mile. “We’re very grateful to our youth sponsors, BGL Group,” he told me.

“They’ve committed financing for the next three years which means we’ve been able to purchase new equipment and put volunteers on coaching courses to gain their qualifications.”

James had first got involved with the little ones when his own children were of the right age to start and that’s not uncommon.

Ken Bray, manager of the under-13s, told me he’d been an armchair cricket fan until his son Findlay started and he got more and more involved.

“It’s given me a new dimension,” he said “and it’s great to see how quickly they improve with the right help.”

James added: “We’re a family-oriented, sociable and forward thinking club that I like to think, for a small village side, we punch above our weight.”

As you’d expect, the seats outside the pavilion were populated by mums and dads, doubtless enjoying a quiet hour away from the hurly-burly of life. Tina’s son Jenson started a couple of years ago: “He really looks forward to it and tells me all about the new skills he’s learnt.”

PROUD TO SUPPORT LOCAL SPORT

Rachel’s daughter Eva is an all-round cricket fan, and father Simon has been a star cricketer in the area for many years. Rachel said she “loves playing and seeing her friends”.

Later, Eva herself told me: “All of the coaches are really friendly. If you do something well they say ‘Well done!’ but if you don’t do it so well they show you how to do better. I like it when you bowl someone out. It feels really good that you’ve done something for your team.”

Nicole, mother of William, eight this month, added: “It’s lovely to be here on an evening like this. William likes being part of a team and everyone, not just the best players, gets a fair crack of the whip. We’re going swimming after this so I know there’ll be no trouble getting him off to sleep tonight! Unlike a real game, in these sessions no-one’s standing around. Everyone’s involved all the time and it’s very well organised.”

By now the smallest ones had been replaced by the under-11s and under-13s, the out-going children’s faces flushed red with their efforts in the heat, and there was a marked improvement in the quality of play out on the field as you’d expect.

As I’d been out in the sun for quite a while

myself, that earlier mention of a nice cool swimming pool seemed a tempting prospect but, after saying my farewells, I settled for a glass of something suitably long and cold in the nearby Bertie Arms, which, like the junior cricket section, is undergoing a resurgence in popularity under the new ownership of James and his wife Katie.

There’s a feeling of permanence and a nice symmetry to village life sometimes, don’t you think?

/// J U L Y 2 0 17 5 3

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ACTIVE LOCAL Ride-out

To Glinton and back Rutland Cycling’s Sally Middlemiss offer a scenic route that is fast and flat

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Starting and finishing in Uffington, this scenic summer route explores our quiet local roads and also includes some traffic-free bridleways and sections of Peterborough’s Green Wheel cycle route. It’s a fairly flat, easy route and is best ridden on a hybrid bike, or adventure/gravel road bike with knobbly tyres.

The Green Wheel is a network of more than 45 miles of continuous cycle routes in and around Peterborough that is well worth exploring – it’s easily accessed from Stamford and Rutland.

Download a map from www.travelchoice.org.uk

THE ROUTE

Uffington to Ufford 1. Start at the Bertie Arms in Uffington. Head towards Spalding on the A1175.

2. As you leave Uffington, keep straight on as the main road bends round to the left, following signs to Barnack.

3. Enter Barnack. At the staggered crossroads, go straight over, on to Jack Haws Lane.

4. Take the first right turn, then the first left. Pass the Millstone pub on your right.

5. Merge left onto the main road through Barnack, passing the Hills and Holes on your right.

6. After a sharp right bend, take the left turn, signposted Ufford.

7. At the T-junction in Ufford, with the White Hart pub in front of you, turn right.

Ufford to Glinton 8. At the crossroads, turn left to Helpston.

9. Turn right onto Broad Wheel Road and enter Helpston village.

10. Turn immediately right, onto the bridleway and into Rice Wood. There are a number of paths

criss-crossing the wood, so if you have time, you may like to explore a few of them. Otherwise, take the middle path (straight ahead) as you enter the wood.

11. Exit the bridleway on to the road, turning left.

12. Almost immediately, turn right onto the bridleway.

13. Rejoin the road, turning right to follow the Green Wheel towards Marholm.

14. At the junction, turn left, still following the Green Wheel to Glinton.

15. Carry your bike over the railway bridge.

16. Turn left just before the A15 road bridge, still following the Green Wheel to Glinton. Keep straight, taking care as you rejoin the road.

17. Soon after, take the right fork, signposted ‘No. 1, 3, 5 Lincoln Road’.

18. Take care as you cross the busy roundabout,

to stay on the traffic-free cycle path.

19. Rejoin the road as you enter Glinton.

Glinton to Uffington 20. In Glinton, take the left turn onto the B1443, signposted Helpston.

21. Cross over the A15, then at the crossroads, turn right to Etton. Go straight on through Etton.

22. At the T-junction, turn left to Maxey. Keep straight on, heading towards Lolham.

23. At the T-junction in Lolham, turn left, signposted Helpston.

24. Cross over the railway line (hopefully you won’ have too long a wait!), then take the right turn to Bainton (B1443). Keep straight on through Bainton.

25. Take the right turn to Uffington and retrace your steps back to the Bertie Arms.

START/ UFFINGTON

BAINTON

ETTON GLINTON

BARNACK UFFORD

/// J U LY 2017 5 5

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25/06/2017 19:43

ACTIVE LOCAL Great walks Clockwise, from main picture

The stunning English countryside features heavily on this lovely stroll; the Nene at Elton is one of the cooling off points; The Crown at Elton is an obvious start point; Middle Lodge lies just north-east of Fotheringhay

ELTON AND FOTHERINGHAY An historic, beautiful and perfectly English walk, as Will Hetherington discovers Photography: Will Hetherington

Difficulty rating (out of five)

THE ROUTE

This circular route has two obvious start points.

You can either park in Elton and aim to stop at The Falcon in Fotheringhay for a drink on the way round, or start in Fotheringhay and aim to stop at The Crown in Elton on the way round.

I have done it both ways and they both work well, but for this feature I started in Elton. Park at The Crown if you are going to be putting some business their way and if not then anywhere around Middle Street will be fine.

For the clockwise route make sure you take the footpath leading directly off Stocks Green (not the one down Chapel Lane). You will know you are on the right path because it very quickly takes you past the mill and then the majestic River Nene as it sweeps through the Northamptonshire countryside.

Cross the river and turn right. There is a good spot for the dogs to cool off and have a drink here. Then go over the smaller footbridge and turn left. Head west out over the flat field and when you get to the dismantled railway, take the path which runs south west towards Middle Lodge (very clearly marked through the field).

After two fields you will come to Middle Lodge, which appears to be deserted at the moment but seems ripe for development. Take the left-hand route all around the farm buildings and pick up the path again on the other side.

After another two fields you will reach Fotheringhay Road, just 500 yards north of the village. Walk down the road enjoying the impressive view of the church and if you want a drink at The Falcon turn right at the T-junction and it’s just round down the road. If not then turn left at the T-junction and when you get to the big right-hand turn pick up the Nene Way footpath.

After passing through a farm you will find the old site of the motte and bailey castle on your right. As the site of Mary Queen of Scots’ execution in February 1587 it’s an integral part of

British history and an interesting staging post on the walk. But once you’ve had your history lesson return to the Nene Way and strike out south east up and over a gentle undulation, through some arable crops and past the dismantled railway again, and you will eventually come to a sheep pasture and then a lock on the River Nene. Cross the river and take advantage of another cooling point down to the left on the far bank, and then return to the Nene Way. You will see plenty of long boats moored up on a sidewater and the path goes around Warmington Mill.

Once you get past the mill make sure you take the left turn before the Nene Way goes underneath the A605. From here the footpath runs alongside a raised section of the main road for 400 yards but it’s totally segregated so feels both safe and reasonably quiet. You soon come to a left turn and a track which traverses a bank above a long strip of woodland heading north. You will pass some large poly tunnels on the right hand side and eventually come to a gateway which leads straight into the southern section of Elton Park.

Keep following the path and enjoying the splendid views until you come into the village on Chapel Lane and then make a beeline for The Crown for a well-deserved drink.

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TOP STAT

born at Richard III was stle in 1452.

Fotheringhay Ca the castle to his Henry VIII gave e of Aragon. It Queen, Katherin in 1628. was dismantled

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ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

START

WHERE TO PARK For this version of the walk either park at The Crown in Elton or somewhere nearby. If you want to finish in Fotheringhay then anywhere on the road near The Falcon or in the car park will be fine.

➛

➛

DISTANCE AND TIME Five miles, one and a half hours (it’s pretty flat).

HIGHLIGHTS Two lovely pubs and villages, Fotheringhay church and castle, the River Nene and the beautiful English countryside.

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LOWLIGHTS None that spring to mind.

REFRESHMENTS The Crown in Elton and The Falcon in Fotheringhay.

DIFFICULTY RATING Two paws; it’s five miles but good underfoot and not many contours.

THE POOCH PERSPECTIVE A couple of good cooling off spots in the Nene, dog friendly sections in both pubs, hardly any livestock.

For your own safety and navigation make sure you have an OS map with you when you go out walking. You won’t regret it.

©CROWN COPYRIGHT 2017 ORDNANCE SURVEY. MEDIA 044/17

/// J U LY 2017 5 7

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23/06/2017 16:23

ACTIVE LOCAL Bike winner

Rutland to Spain on two wheels Last year our Rutland Cycling competition to win a bike for a challenge was won by Jason Skinner. After months of training, he has finally completed his incredible Lincolnshire to Spain charity challenge. Here’s how Jason did it...

“We completed our charity cycle ride from Bourne to Almeria in Spain after 15 days cycling in temperatures as hot as 40 degrees.

We got soaked on days and some stages were well over 130 miles. Amazingly, I did not get one puncture, and my Genesis bike was amazing and I am deeply in love with it now. Not only did the ‘green machine’ carry me and all my clothes and kit, it tackled fields, mountains and dried up river beds – it just kept on rolling.

“We got a great send off in Bourne with several members of the Baston Cycle Club joining us for 30 miles. Friends and members of the public joined in too for as long as they wanted and we even had a penny farthing come along for 15 miles.

Co-Op Elsea Park were also there giving away snacks and water.

“The first few stages to Portsmouth were pretty smooth and we met some fellow cyclists on the ferry crossing who were doing charity rides, so it was lovely to have a bit of bike chat.

“Cycling the first few miles in France was when it started to kick in; as we passed bits of history from the war it soon became clear we were getting a long way from home. French fields and climbs soon turned into cute villages and we soon embraced French cheese and pastry – food and fuelling up was not going to be a problem.

“We swapped fields and villages for iconic rivers and then larger towns.

Everything was going smoothly, but we knew we had the mountains to climb over to get into Pamplona and Spain, and we hit these on a damp and wet day. In the end this was a godsend as it kept us cool.

“The bikes needed a wash and oil from time to time but they purred like a cat almost all the way. The first climb was the little one (602 metres) and the second was 984 – to our surprise and amazement we made these and were speeding downhill into Spain and the home of the bull run.

“The heat, which was one of our biggest worries, really kicked in once we were in Spain, and on the first day we set off at 6am to make headway while it was cooler, but Tim suffered a puncture about 20

minutes into the ride and this set us back about 30 minutes.

“Onwards we cycled as we knew the coast was only a few days away, we both found out that we both enjoyed cycling by water, whether it be a river or lake or coast and we were not disappointed with the Spanish coast, especially Calpe.

“We even managed to ride on some of the old F1 circuit and pit lane in Valencia.

The heat was now in the mid-30s and getting warmer by the day, so water and keeping cool was our main focus alongside grinding out the miles.

“We had one ride to Teruel which was over 100 miles and it was constant climbing all day and on an old frontage road to a new main road. Everything was closed and run down and shade hard was to find. It reminded us of Route 66 with ghost towns and smashed up gas stations – this was the toughest day by a mile.

“Once we turned inland towards Murcia the weather got hotter still (high-30s). We were now skipping breakfast and stopping 30 miles into the ride so we could get on the road as quickly as possible, this helped us finish most days before the afternoon sun kicked in.

“We had one stage left to complete 94 miles from Murica to Arboles where my mum lives. I think we thought we had done all the work the day before, as we both had heavy legs and struggled to get any momentum going and the 40 degree heat really hit us hard.

“We finally hit the town centre where we were welcomed by a crowd of local people and also the town mayor and his team, and we were very surprised and pleased to get a cold drink.

“It was an amazing ride, we loved every minute of it, we are amazed at the performance of our bikes and even more surprised by our bodies. We are already talking about the next challenge – maybe biking this route in reverse!”

Jason is fund-raising ride for Cancer Research, after his mother contracted terminal cancer and moved to Spain for her last years. To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ JasonSkinner0609 /// J U LY 2 0 1 7 5 9

59 bike winner OK.indd 36

23/06/2017 18:29

Cloisters 1/4.qxp_Layout 1 16/03/2017 11:12 Page 1

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Visit our website for maps and routes at www.laundeabbey.org.uk Launde Abbey, East Norton, Leicestershire LE7 9XB T: 01572 717254 I E: info@launde.org.uk Charity No: 1140918

23/06/2017 14:42

ACTIVE LOCAL Schools

Edwards visits Oakham Former England captain Charlotte Edwards visited Oakham School as part of the launch of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup and to celebrate Women’s Sport Week 2017.

Students converged on Doncaster Close to meet with Charlotte and members of the Australian team.

Charlotte was set the challenge of taking the ICC Women’s World Cup to each of the host venues, travelling over 500 miles in one day ahead of the start of the tournament. She set off from Lord’s with Oakham being her second stop.

She generously gave her time to

talk to some of the school’s cricketers; Oakham’s newly formed girls’ cricket team recently won its first game against Oundle by 50 runs.

Oakham is hosting two warm-up matches and a number of practice sessions for the Australian, South African and the West Indies teams.

“It is a real testimony to Oakham’s outstanding facilities that the ECB has asked the school to host these sessions and matches,” says Iain Simpson, director of sport. “It’s also a great opportunity for our cricketers, who have been providing net bowling for the practice sessions.”

DEEPINGS SWIMMERS QUALIFY FOR NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

Boost for triathlon academy The new Ketton Panthers Academy, an extension of the triathlon club designed to help youngsters develop skills to a higher level, was recently assisted by Paralympic gold medallist, Claire Cunningham.

Claire, who took gold and four silver medals for swimming at the age of just 15, went on to discover triathlon and in 2009 became World, European and British Paratriathlon champion.

Justin Hattee, Ketton Panthers founder, said: “Meeting Claire was truly inspirational for our members. We developed the academy to stretch our older juniors further

and learning from triathlete gold medallists has really given them the hunger to succeed at competition level. “ The Ketton Panthers Triathlon Academy aims to provide an opportunity for young triathletes to develop and progress their skills and endurance to a higher level; thereby bridging the gap between the club and East Midlands Skill Schools and the regional development squads. It also aims to inspire younger Ketton Panthers to train and race more regularly and aspire to be a part of the academy when they reach the age of 12 (Tristart 2).

Brooke Priory School enjoyed great success in the swimming pool at the IAPS Gala. The years V and VI boys were ranked eighth nationally in the relay finals. Head of sport Duncan Flint said: “They performed well and trained hard, improving with each session. We are very proud to have achieved a good national ranking.”

The team (pictured left): Adam Desira, Charlie Watts, Freddie Collins, Casper Nicolle, Elliott Murray, Douwe Timmermans, James BartleJones and Maxwell Weir.

Six Deepings Swimming Club members have qualified to compete at the British and English national championships which will be held next month in Sheffield.

Isabel Spinley, Bailie Harrison and Tom Adams will be racing at the British Summer Championships on July 25-30, where the country’s fastest 24 swimmers in each age group and event will go head-to-head.

The trio will be joined by Louis Metsalaar, Ben Beedall and Chloe Jones at the Swim England National Summer Meet in Sheffield a week later.

At the British Summer Championships, Isabel will represent the club in the 50m, 100m, and 200m butterfly, Bailie Harrison will compete in the 50m butterfly and Tom Adams will be swimming in both the 50m and 100m butterfly.

Meanwhile, at the English nationals, where the next ranked swimmers at English-affiliated clubs compete, Isabel will take part in the 400 Individual Medley, Bailie in the 100m butterfly, Tom in the 200m butterfly, Louis in the 50m and 100m breaststroke, Ben in the 200m butterfly and Chloe in the 800m freestyle.

Lynn Chapman, Deepings Swimming Club head coach, said: “It’s a fantastic achievement for a club the size of Deepings to get so many swimmers through to nationals. We have some exciting medals prospects and we’ll be working hard over the next few weeks to help them fulfil their potential.”

/// J U LY 2 0 1 7 6 1

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

Cricket

Oakham confident of an upturn in performance

BY JEREMY BESWICK

T

here seems to be a positive trend this season of our local clubs recruiting retired first-class professionals to their ranks.

Following Wes Durston (ex-Somerset and Derbyshire) going to Oakham and Rob Taylor (Leicestershire and Scotland) being appointed director of cricket at Market Harborough, Oundle handed the same title to Ben Smith in the close season. Smith not only played for Leicestershire and Worcestershire, he is a highly qualified coach in both batting and fielding, a role he’s performed with the ECB development squad and England Lions, among others.

Oundle’s chairman Guy Bolsover said at the time of the appointment: “This is a big coup for Oundle Town and we should rightly be really excited to have a cricket professional with Ben’s extensive playing and coaching experience at Milton Road.”

It’s indeed testimony to the quality of our local sides and their facilities that they’re able to attract such talent to the area. Perhaps as a result of Smith’s appointment, Oundle have had a highly successful start to the season.

Their Saturday first XI currently sit second in the Northants Premier League and both Smith and their 22-year old overseas professional, Hanno Kotze, have been getting plenty of runs. It looks set to be a happy season.

Oakham, on the other hand, continue to find life challenging as they get accustomed to Division One of the Leicestershire and Rutland League. They find themselves bottom of the table at present, still searching for an elusive

first victory. Skipper Richard Martin expects them to improve as the season goes on, citing availability of players as a key issue in those early season fixtures and is looking forward to the imminent return of bowler Rory Brown.

He’s also confident that Oakham will not be propping up the table for long.

After famously beating Stamford Town in the local derby, Burghley Park’s Saturday side went on to two away defeats, at Hampton and Southill Park. The game at Hampton was a bit of a non-event as Burghley, electing to bat, lost both their openers early on and struggled to a paltry 106, the top scoring batsman (Safdar Alam) making just 14. Skipper Michael Jones called their innings “a poor display of application” and summed up the match by saying: “Hampton eventually cruised to victory for six down. A day to forget.”

The Southill match started in similar vein, Jones winning the toss and choosing to bat then seeing both openers – Adam Renton and Chris Armstrong – soon back in the pavilion.

Despite the best efforts of Gareth Hook with 24 and Robert Emery with 37, the eventual total was even lower than the preceding Saturday – just 96. That was never going to be enough and Jones acknowledged that “Southill comfortably eased to victory.” He also bemoaned the fact there would be no match the following week “which would frustrate the batsmen who will be keen to get out of this current run of form” as his side was “lacking in form and confidence after successive lacklustre batting displays”.

Stamford’s Saturday side started June with

an easy victory against Waresley, who managed only 57 runs, Alex Birch with 33 and Andrew Hulme on 12 seeing them home and in the following weeks they went on to beat both Newborough and Eaton Socon, in-form Liam Dave contributing a century in each.

Their Sunday side beat Nassington but lost to Bourne, the latter also eliminating Uppingham from the T20 SRSN Stamford Shield. Uppingham’s Gavin Morris will consider himself unlucky to have ended on the losing side, having scored 109 with seven sixes, but Bourne’s Sam Evison (57), David Greenfield (43) and Jack Berry (33) won it for Bourne with overs to spare.

Empingham caught the eye with an enormous 348 from their 40 overs against Ashby Carrington. Jordan Haworth, only 16, with 119 off just 80 balls was the pick of a very good display, ably supported by Rob McKevitt who was unlucky to finish on 99 – out to the last ball of the innings.

Market Deeping are rightfully proud that their teenage bowler, Pat Brown, was in the 12- man squad for Worcestershire against Glamorgan. Although he didn’t get to play, despite “all at MDCC crossing knees, fingers, legs and toes for his inclusion in the team” the experience will stand him in good stead.

As Worcestershire’s director of cricket Steve Rhodes said: “Pat has impressed us this year in what he has done. He deserves a chance, an opportunity to be around the first team to see how things are done in that area. Whether he plays or doesn’t play, it will be of benefit to him for the future.”

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Grace notes Leicester’s start to the season has been rather mixed. They exited the Royal London Cup at the first stage but were only 21 runs away from defeating Yorkshire to make the knockouts.

Head coach Pierre de Bruyn said: “I’m very proud of the guys, we had a very young side out at times and there were a lot of career-bests posted throughout the tournament. It was far better than the 50-over performances of the last few years.

“There were a lot more positives than negatives in the 50-over competition, our downfall was consistency as we couldn’t string two really good performances together. It’s a quick turnaround now from white to red ball and all you can do as a player is switch your focus as soon as possible.”

So it’s back to the four-day game and the County Championship. Clint McKay, whose innings had nearly seen the Foxes home in that crucial loss to Yorkshire, agreed with de Bruyn.

“The boys were understandably gutted but know that we’ve played some good cricket and we’re confident of putting in good performances,” he said.

“The players are used to switching between white and red ball. It doesn’t matter what format you’re playing; if you have momentum from your performances, which we have, then you can take that into the next game.”

To date their county matches have shown some good performances with the

bat but have somewhat lacked teeth in the bowling department. They’ll be pleased, therefore, that fast bowler Zak Chappell – late of Stamford School and Town, as well as Market Harborough – is entering his third season in the first team squad relatively injury free a er trouble with an intercostal strain and then an ankle injury had blighted his first two years.

Still only 20, he told me: “It’s been different for me this year because I’ve been able to play a lot more cricket. There’s only so much you can learn in the nets. It’s gaining experience in the field that improves a young cricketer.”

He continued: “My ambition this year is to play as much as possible. My role in the first team is as a breakthrough bowler – to take wickets with that extra bit of pace I’ve got.”

Zak told me he’s been measured at over 90mph and, interestingly, says speed doesn’t come from effort but from rhythm. “It’s those days that you’re not straining for pace that you’re quick,” he said.

Pleasingly for old fogies like me and all you other traditionalists out there, the red ball format is his preferred version of the game. “I can appreciate the fun of 20:20 but still believe that at county level the four day version is the purest. It’s the real test of your cricketing skills with nowhere to hide.”

Let’s hope they push on from here, now they can concentrate on this format, and start to climb the table.

Above

Zak Chappell is entering his third season in the first team squad

/// J U LY 2017

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23/06/2017 13:32

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22/06/2017 17:38

ACTIVE LOCAL Round-up

Golf

Ellie is Lincolnshire champion

G

reetham Valley now has its first county champion as 17-year old Ellie Haughton (pictured right) won the Lincolnshire Girls Championship, played at Waltham Woods.

Playing off 5, Ellie scored an impressive gross 77 to win by 7 shots from her nearest competitor (who plays off 7) and continues a very successful month of June following wins in the adult and junior open as well as the ladies June medal.

Greetham Valley also had two other entrants in the championship as Ellie’s younger sister, Izzy, and Isabella Condie were also playing and acquitted themselves well in the nett scoring result.

In spite of the steamingly hot temperatures at Burghley Park, strong fields turned out for both the men’s and ladies June medals, and some impressive scoring was the order of the day.

In the ladies EGU Medal, 19 competitors turned out and the severity of the conditions was evidenced by the fact that CSS went up to 75. Only two players beat net par, with Sue Churchill (17) producing a stunning net 70, which could have been even better. She scored steadily, going through both halves in only seven over gross, in spite of having nightmares on the 8th hole, where she carded a four over par nine, and the par 3 13th, where she scored a six! But in spite of these reverses, which would have destroyed the confidence of lesser

into a great rhythm, hitting 9 pars in a row and then hanging on. He took the honours and was cut to 11.

In Division 1, Rob McGarr (6) continued his quest to become a scratch golfer (starting the season on 8), and kept his recent good progress going with a net 66 which saw him take the divisional prize and come down to 5.2. Trevor Smith (2) produced the best gross score of the day (69), which saw him take 2nd spot with a net 67, coming home in two under after a one over on the outward half.

ROWING

mortals, Sue simply blanked them and got back to business. She claimed the victory, and saw her handicap slashed from 17.4 to 15.6.

The men’s June medal drew 81 players, with nine of them equalling or beating net par.

Score of the day was produced by Ryan Birtles (12), who reached the turn in just one over par gross, and followed that with a four over par gross back nine, for a mercurial net 63. After a slightly shaky start, which saw him bogey the tricky first hole, he settled quickly

From training in Leicester to World Cup glory, Jonny Walton achieved greatness tlast month.

The former Leicester-shire & Rutland Sport GO GOLD Ambassador won gold in the quadruple sculls at the World Cup in Poznan, Poland.

Supported by the GO GOLD funding programme, Walton has so far competed at the Olympics representing Team GB, but his victory at the weekend marks his greatest achievement yet.

Competing alongside Jack Beaumont, John Collins and Peter Lambert, Walton was a part of the crew which raced to victory with plenty of time to spare in Poznan.

During his time as a part of the GO GOLD programme, Walton received valuable funding which helped to purchase equipment, attend international events and further his training whilst still in education.

For more information visit www.lrsport.org/ gogold

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23/06/2017 20:16

ACTIVE LOCAL Round-up

Equestrianism

Riding action heats up

BY JULIA DUNGWORTH

W

hat a scorcher June has been.

JumpCross had to cancel its monthly competition as the ground was baking hard and with no more rain forecast, it looks like it could be a long hot summer.

Thank goodness it has so many water crossings, as the training days are super popular at the moment, as was the May competition which had plenty of entries. It was a day for doubles – Skye Valderas came both first and second in the Junior Grassroots then local rider Sophie Metcalfe won both the Senior Grassroots and Senior Group 3 on Ninon Du Matz.

Elsewhere, Etti Dale from Castle Bytham is one of 12 riders to make it onto the shortlist for the British team at the FEI CIC2* European Championships which take place in Tongren in Belgium at the end of July.

Unlike normal team competitions, these biennial championships carry a unique format by having six members in the team compared to the usual four and the first phase has all six members performing a ‘team dressage’ test in a normal 20x60, before competing in their own individual test.

Riders then go on to cross- country and

show jumping phases as normal. That means you can be placed both as a team or an individual.

Richard and Victoria Jones have had mixed fortunes over the last month. Victoria had two great performances at Somerford Premier League show at the end of May – she even had to follow Charlotte Dujardin into the ring. She finished third with Tijs H on a score of 69.78% to Charlotte, then sixth on 68.03% with Wiepke II. Richard went out the following weekend to Bramham on Alfie’s Clover, on good form after a tenth place in the Advanced at Chatsworth, where they did a good dressage and a foot perfect cross-country round incurring just 1.6 time penalties to leave them in tenth place before the show jumping.

But then Richard suffered a nasty accident in the lorry, catching his wedding ring and removing his finger. He was rushed into Leeds hospital but unfortunately the surgery was unsuccessful.

For the second time this year we wish Richard a very speedy recovery. It only seems like days ago he was on crutches.

Richard Skelt from Norman Cross was also unlucky at Bramham, having had a solid tenth

place in the Advanced the week before at Little Downham. He then started out with a cracking round over a very tough course, but unfortunately the gruelling course claimed another victim and he retired on Meerlust Lady. This talented combination will definitely be one to look out for in the future.

Sofia Welch from Bourne had her first affiliated placing at the very popular Shelford Horse Trials near Nottingham at the end of May. She finished fourth in the BE80 section with Ghareebs Sheen Falls Boy. Sofia added just 0.8 of a time penalty to her dressage score of 36.5.

Although Sofia has won a lot of unaffiliated competitions, this was their first ‘proper’ event together and I’m sure we will see a lot more of the combination out soon.

Charlotte Hollis from Cottesmore has also been putting her best foot forward and at the end of May won the Sheep Gate Tack and Togs Advanced Medium Championship on her own Suitably Gracious.

The championship runs over two days, with riders completing a test on both days.

Charlotte finished on a very good combined score of 133.83%, which was nearly 7% more than her closest rival.

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23/06/2017 13:40

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