Active Magazine // Stamford & Rutland // November 2015

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FIND YOUR PERFECT WINTER WONDERLAND Our guide to the best, cheapest and family friendly skiing this season ISSUE 41 // NOVEMBER 2015

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

ISSUE 41 // NOVEMBER 2015

FIT GIFTS 2015

The ultimate active Christmas presents for friends and family

MASSIVE XMAS GIVEAWAY!

Amazing prizes to be won in three competitions

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ALL-ROUND TRAINING

How to ensure you have all the body bases covered

TOM CROFT’S TESTIMONIAL

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The Tigers legend on 10 years at Welford Road

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Stamford Junior School & Stamford Nursery School

EARLY YEARS DISCOVERY MORNING

Experience our inspiring, nurturing, challenging and welcoming environment.

9.45am-11.15am on Thursday 19th November 2015 Join us for a chance to explore our outstanding Nursery and Reception Classes with your son or daughter.

• F or children aged 3 to 5 • T eaching provided by Early Childhood specialists • Forest School leader and Outdoor Education specialist • Wide-ranging opportunities, including swimming • Excellent facilities • Diverse curriculum, including Spanish To reserve a place, please call 01780 484400, email headjs@ses.lincs.sch.uk or visit www.ses.lincs.sch.uk.

Let your light shine

Editor’s Letter I FEEL DOUBLY GUILTY WRITING THIS, because as I do my dog is looking at me mournfully.

I am sure he’s wondering if I’m ever going to stop hitting the big silver thing with my paws and take him out for a walk.

Sorry Bertie, but it’s wet, windy, cold and I’m on a deadline. So the only walk you’ll be getting today is a quick run round the field later. More ambitious adventures will have to wait for another day. Perhaps one in June.

It’s so easy when the weather gets more inhospitable to compromise on these things. The run that might have been is put off to watch Strictly: It Takes Two, with the heating on full blast. A round of golf ditched in favour of a pot of coffee and hiding under the Sunday papers.

So in this issue, for all those winterphobics, we have suggested some solutions. One is shopping. After all, if you’re finding it hard to get heavily into the exercise vibe, then why not get kitted out for the moment when you commit again? As the old saying goes: fail to prepare, prepare to fail. So you can feel better about yourself by planning for when you step out of doors again post-hibernation with a vast selection of the best sport and leisure gear you can buy.

To make you feel even better, we have got some amazing prize bundles to give away, just in time for Christmas, so you can kit your whole family out for nowt.

Another solution to the problem of what to get up to is immersion: throw yourself at the mercy of your phobia with complete commitment. Why not book a winter ski trip and make the most of the season? We have suggestions for all budgets in our feature.

The other thing is to eat better. I must admit the winter is all about roasts and curries for me, and as usual we have various ideas for a better diet including – and I shudder at the thought but nevertheless – why not become a vegan for a month?

Personally a month without meat alone is a step too far, but shopping, skiing and great food sounds about bearable. And as I’m done here, I might even give the dog a decent walk too.

Enjoy the issue, Steve

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

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, Sandie Hurford, 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 A member of the Stamford Chamber of Trade and Commerce If you have information on a club then get in touch by emailing editor@theactivemag.com. If you would like to stock Active magazine then email distribution@ theactivemag.com. If you would like to discuss advertising possibilities please email advertise@ theactivemag.com 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

Copyright (c) Grassroots Publishing Limited (GPL) 2015. 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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ELTON, NORTHAMPTONSHIRE

ÂŁ855,000

This handsome property has stunning features and a contemporary interior that combines classic character with stream-lined, modern style. Fitted with high quality materials such as Travetine stone floors and solid oak doors and staircase, double doors from the Hall into the main living areas give an easy flow to the ground floor and result in a spacious, airy home. Benefits include zoned under-floor heating, a bespoke Rot Punkt Kitchen and contemporary bathrooms, and there are wonderful views over open countryside.

EPC Rating: B

W

NE

CASTLE BYTHAM, LINCOLNSHIRE

ÂŁ850,000

This smart, family home has a mix of reception rooms and informal living space and windows throughout make the most of the countryside views. The centre-piece of the property is the open-plan Kitchen, Dining and Family room with bi-fold doors opening out to the garden. The house has contemporary bathrooms, natural wood and porcelain tiled floors, and under-floor heating in the main living space and bathrooms.

EPC Rating: C

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UFFINGTON, LINCOLNSHIRE

ÂŁ1,800,000

Set in the heart of the village in attractive mature grounds this impressive period property retains many original features and offers a mix of elegant formal rooms and family spaces including a sunny Kitchen & Breakfast room, light-filled bedrooms and stylish contemporary bathrooms. A self-contained one bedroom apartment is ideal as a guest suite or staff accommodation, and there is an outdoor pool with a sheltered south-facing terrace.

EPC Rating: E

W

NE

HAWTHORPE, LINCOLNSHIRE

ÂŁ495,000

This peacefully located, elegant home combines historic charm with contemporary style. The simple decor enhances the original beams and deep sills, updated with oak flooring, latch-handled doors and wood-burning stoves. A stunning designer Kitchen & Breakfast room has a cosy sitting space and bi-fold doors opening to the patio and further new fittings include efficient insulation, satellite broadband and stylish bathrooms.

EPC Rating: D

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Chapel Street, Haconby £375,000 A four bedroom detached home with an annex and bespoke purpose built stabling and menage. The property is set on approximately 1.5 acres in the tucked away village of Haconby. The stable yard is a 'Scotts of Thrapston' with a 40m x 20m (approx) silica sand and rubber ménage, whilst the paddock is fully fenced. The accommodation briefly comprises of an entrance hall, sitting room, kitchen, dining room, conservatory, shower room, four bedrooms and a bathroom. Additional accommodation is provided by the separate annex which is currently being used as a tack room with an office above. Viewing is highly recommended is order to appreciate the level of accommodation and equestrian facilities on offer.

Paynes Field, Barnack £535,000 Set in a popular cul-de-sac location which backs onto fields, this versatile family house offers spacious accommodation set over three floors. The property features a modern open plan kitchen diner with breakfast bar and island, two reception rooms, Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom and dressing area, guest bedroom with en-suite and fitted wardrobes, three further double bedrooms and a sixth bedroom/family room. To the rear of the property is a south west facing patio and lawned garden with open country views, whilst to the side is a double garage and off street parking for four cars.

The village offers superb access to Stamford, Peterborough, transport links and schooling, not to mention the local countryside.

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Stamford office 9 High Street, St Martins, Stamford, PE9 2LF

01780 484696

stamford@savills-smithsgore.co.uk

SYMPATHETICALLY REFURBISHED VICTORIAN VICARAGE wisbech, cambridgeshire

EXQUISITE BARN CONVERSION IN SEMI RURAL SETTING cawthorpe, lincolnshire

Entrance hall  drawing room  sitting room  dining room  study  kitchen/ breakfast room  utility  pantry  cellar  6 bedrooms  3 bathrooms  gardens  traditional stores  garage  around 0.5 acres  EPC exempt

Offers expansive living and entertaining accommodation  entrance hall  sitting room  kitchen/family room  study  family bathroom  cloakroom  2 double bedrooms with en suite  2 further double bedrooms  integral double garage  opportunity to purchase with or without the surrounding paddock land  around 4 acres of land  EPC exempt

Guide £635,000

Guide £775,000

Artist’s Impression

Guide £715,000 without the land

UNDER OFFER

OPPORTUNITY TO LIVE IN A STUNNING WATERSIDE LOCATION RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT IN VILLAGE LOCATION wansford marina, cambridgeshire ketton, rutland An exceptional collection of 6 energy efficient detached houses  set within an exclusive gated development  properties available with 3 - 5 bedrooms  built to a high specification  private mooring for each house with direct access to the River Nene

Grade II listed  sitting room  dining room  kitchen/breakfast room  utility  6 bedrooms  family bathroom  shower room  cellar – not currently accessible  large garden  coach house  workshops  former professional kitchen  range of stores  private walled garden

Guide prices from £550,000 - £750,000 freehold

Under offer

Our next move in the property market helps yours Savills and Smiths Gore have come together to offer our clients an even greater service, with more agents, more offices and a deeper market knowledge, to help you make your move.

savills-smithsgore.co.uk

Contents

ISSUE 41 /// NOVEMBER 2015

16 NEWS 13 ACTIVE LIFE

Boot Campers raise money for Anna’s Hope

16 CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN

A run-down of the best festive events locally

18-19 HEALTHY EATING

Another tasty recipe from Riverford Organic

20 DAY IN THE LIFE OF...

Forest School leader Melissa Mason

22 FIVE THINGS TO DO IN NOVEMBER Great ideas for days out

25 ROWING THE ATLANTIC

Quartet set out on a gruelling adventure

27 COOPED UP

Editor Steve Moody updates us on life with chickens

33 MARTIN JOHNSON COLUMN

The Sunday Times writer on the Law of Sod

34-39 KIT BAG CHRISTMAS SPECIAL Great present ideas for friends and family

FEATURES

60

20

28-29 CYCLING FOR SEB

Rugby clubs unite for special fund-raiser

40-43 WINTER SPORT The best skiing holidays

57

44-51 HEALTH AND FITNESS

The latest on looking and feeling great

REGULARS 52-53 GREAT WALKS

Will Hetherington heads to Helpston

55 SPORTSMAN’S DINNER

We try out The Fox Inn at Hallaton

57-59 SCHOOL SPORT

Our focus on the latest achievements from local pupils

60-66 ROUND-UP

How clubs in the area are faring

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d or f am t S

o l l e H NEW STORE NOW OPEN 23 HIGH STREET

STAMFORD

LINCOLNSHIRE, PE9 2AY

SEQUIN DRESS £

953 Family Since 1 Faux Fur Jacket £75

WOMEN, MEN, KIDS & HOME

Discover our story and shop online at mandco.com Visit our 250 UK stores or say hello! 0808 129 0520

59

In Play

Thousands turn out for record run More than five thousand runners turned out for one of the biggest sporting events in the region, the Perkins Great Eastern Run. Winner Kenyan Phillip Koech smashed the record for the half marathon, with a time of 61 minutes 40 seconds.

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Boost your Energy & Vitality 20% OFF

Herbal* Remedies

Join us in-store

Saturday 21st November

for our first birthday celebrations ✓ FREE Mini Treatments ✓ FREE Superfood Treats ✓ WIN a Health & Beauty Hamper

Arnica Salve Eases the body after exercise

Organic Virgin Coconut Oil Ideal for cooking and sports nutrition

Organic Greens Complex Boosts vitality and good for muscle-building

Omega 3.6.9 Organic Oil Blend Boosts health and wellbeing

Damiana and Wolfberry Formula Increases vitality

Neal’s Yard Remedies, 53 High Street, Stamford PE9 2AW *20% off Superfoods & Remedies applies in Neal’s Yard Remedies Stamford store only, valid until 30th November 2015, on presentation of this original advert, code ACTMAG15. Excludes sales of Skincare, Therapies, Courses and Gift Vouchers. We reserve the right to withdraw this offer at any time. No cash or other alternatives. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

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Activelife GREAT THINGS TO DO, PLACES TO SEE, PEOPLE TO MEET // Edited by Mary Bremner

OUT AND ABOUT

Boot Camp steps out for Anna’s Hope For the third year in a row Stamford Boot Camp’s team of runners successfully ran the Great Eastern Half Marathon in aid of Anna’s Hope, raising just over £3,500 for children and young adults with brain tumours.

Team leader and proprietor Rob Dulieu said: “Although we lost a few of our runners to injury before the race the remainder of the team completed the 13.1-mile course in very respectable times – not bad considering most of them had never run this far before, let alone raced the distance. But, most importantly, they have raised another great figure for Anna’s Hope. I am very proud of everyone who contributed.” /// N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5

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Indoor Indoortennis tennis FREEFREE indoor indoor tennis tennis coaching coaching is now is now available available at at the Active the Active Rutland Rutland Hub Hub starting starting on Wednesday on Wednesday 4th November 4th November for 6for weeks.

6 weeks.

•

•

Turbo Turbosessions sessions

•

TurboTurbo sessions sessions are designed are designed to resemble to resemble a realistic a realistic roadroad session session based based on power on power training training and are andrun areby runBritish

by British Cycling Cycling accredited accredited coaches. coaches.

Sessions Sessions will commence will commence on Tuesday on Tuesday 3rd November 3rd November at theatActive the Active Rutland Rutland Hub Hub at at Oakham Oakham Enterprise Enterprise Park Park and will andrun willfor run6for weeks.

6 weeks.

• •

3:50pm • 3:50pm - 4:40pm - 4:40pm - Mini- Mini red development red development squad squad (4-7 years).

(4-7 years).

An ideal An ideal way to way learn to learn to play to play with with smallsmall racquets racquets and low and compression low compression balls.balls.

4:45pm • 4:45pm - 5:45pm - 5:45pm - Mini- Mini orange orange and green and green squad squad (8-10(8-10 years). years).

LearnLearn how how to play to play mini mini matches. matches.

7:30pm • 7:30pm - 8:30pm - 8:30pm - Adult - Adult beginners. beginners.

LearnLearn how how to play to play with with touchtouch tennis tennis in thein the dry and dry warm. and warm.

All sessions All sessions are FREE are FREE and all and equipment all equipment is is provided. provided.

Club • Club Session: Session: 5:45pm 5:45pm - 6:30pm - 6:30pm (£3 per (£3session). per session).

Open • Open Session: Session: 6:30pm 6:30pm - 8:00pm - 8:00pm (£5 per (£5session). per session).

Further Further details details are available are available fromfrom Richard Richard Wilson Wilson on 07971 on 07971 457739 457739 or richard@r2rtennis.co.uk. or richard@r2rtennis.co.uk.

For more For more information information or toor book to book please please contact contact Rob Rob Muzio Muzio on roadntrack.rutlandrouleur@gmail.com on roadntrack.rutlandrouleur@gmail.com or or coaches.rutlandrouleur@gmail.com. coaches.rutlandrouleur@gmail.com.

Just Just Play Play is is about about playing playing football… football… asas simple simple asas that that TheMars FA Mars Just Play! the casual footballer a chance to turn just turn The FA Just Play! givesgives the casual footballer a chance to just up toup a to a venue and play football.

The Play Just kick Play about kick about is recreational football venue and play football.

The Just is recreational football at itsat its it’s about turning upan forhour an hour of exercise of Its fun.football Its football best best - it’s -about turning up for of exercise and aand bit aofbit fun. for those or don’t to commit an eight month season for those who who can’tcan’t or don’t wantwant to commit to antoeight month long long season of matches and training.

Frankly, it’s jumpers for goalposts, butballs, the balls, of matches and training.

Frankly, it’s jumpers for goalposts, but the pitchpitch and teams are provided. and teams are provided.

FA Mars Just Play! is purely for adults, for men, for women, for those FA Mars Just Play! is purely for adults, for men, for women, for those who who thinkthink they’re talented andthose for those aren’t. they’re talented and for who who thinkthink they they aren’t.

Go along to Catmose Sports Centre Wednesday 7:00pm.

For more Go along to Catmose Sports Centre everyevery Wednesday fromfrom 7:00pm.

For more information to book please contact James on 01572 490030. information or toor book please contact James BettsBetts on 01572 490030.

Cheerleading Cheerleading Oakham Oakham Artistic Artistic Gymnastic Gymnastic Academy Academy is pleased is pleased to betooffering be offering cheerleading cheerleading classes classes and adult and adult gymnastics gymnastics for allfor those all those who who would would like to like tryto try thesethese fantastic fantastic activities activities on a on Monday a Monday evening evening at theatActive the Active Rutland Rutland Hub Hub at Oakham at Oakham Enterprise Enterprise Park.Park.

• •

Cheerleading: • Cheerleading: 4:00pm 4:00pm - 5:00pm: - 5:00pm: Year Year 1, 2 and 1, 2 3. and 3.

5:00pm 5:00pm - 6:00pm: - 6:00pm: Year Year 4, 5 and 4, 5 6. and 6.

Adult • Adult Gymnastics: Gymnastics: 7:00pm 7:00pm - 8:00pm.

- 8:00pm.

For more For more information information or toor book to book please please contact contact oakhamgymnastics@hotmail.co.uk. oakhamgymnastics@hotmail.co.uk.

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66 toto 1414 touch touch rugby rugby • Where: • Where: Active Active Rutland Rutland Hub,Hub, Oakham Oakham Enterprise Enterprise Park.Park.

• When: • When: EveryEvery Tuesday Tuesday fromfrom 5:00pm 5:00pm until until 6:00pm.

6:00pm.

• What: • What: Turn Turn up and up play and play session session for allfor abilities all abilities to come to come alongalong and try andsomething try something different. different.

• Cost: • Cost: OnlyOnly £3.00£3.00 per session per session and you and only you only pay for paythe forsessions the sessions you attend. you attend.

• Contact: • Contact: admin@eshelbyleisure.com, admin@eshelbyleisure.com, 07800 07800 967927.

967927.

Adult Adult turnturn up and up and playplay touch touch rugby rugby

Nordic Nordic Walk Walk it!it! forfor a full a full body body workout workout • • • • •

• Where: • Where: Active Active Rutland Rutland Hub,Hub, Oakham Oakham Enterprise Enterprise Park.Park.

• When: • When: EveryEvery Tuesday Tuesday fromfrom 6:30pm 6:30pm until until 7:30pm.

7:30pm.

• What: • What: Turn Turn up and up play and play session session for allfor abilities all abilities and ages and ages above above 14 years 14 years old toold come to come alongalong and try andtheir try their hands hands at some at some competitive competitive touchtouch rugby. rugby.

• Cost: • Cost: OnlyOnly £4.00£4.00 per session per session and you and only you only pay for paythe forsessions the sessions you attend. you attend.

Taster: • Taster: A free A 45 freeminute 45 minute session session so you so can yousee canifsee it isif it is for you. for you.

Learn • Learn to Courses: to Courses: Master Master the basics the basics in 4 weeks in 4 weeks to beto be able able to competently to competently Nordic Nordic Walk.Walk.

Well-being • Well-being Walks: Walks: A gentle A gentle session session idealideal for those for those with with concerns concerns about about either either distance distance or pace. or pace.

Walk • Walk and Talk: and Talk: A social A social session session designed designed to help to help you you keepkeep improving improving and get andnoticeable get noticeable results. results.

Nordic • Nordic Blast:Blast: A fastA paced fast paced session session that that will get willyour get your heartheart pumping. pumping.

Weekly Weekly sessions sessions take take placeplace on Monday, on Monday, Tuesday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Wednesday, Friday Friday and Saturday and Saturday in and in around and around Rutland, Rutland, including including Stamford Stamford and Harborough. and Harborough.

For more For more information information please please visit www.nordicwalkit.co.uk visit www.nordicwalkit.co.uk or call orJo call Douglas Jo Douglas on 07949 on 07949 392018.

392018.

Badminton Badminton coaching coaching for for allall ages ages Catmose Catmose Sports Sports Centre Centre in partnership in partnership with with Oakham Oakham Badminton Badminton Club Club offersoffers coaching coaching sessions sessions to allto ages all ages and abilities. and abilities.

Sessions Sessions For further For further details details please please contact contact a member a member of the of the run every run every Thursday Thursday fromfrom 5:00pm.

5:00pm.

For For Active Active Rutland Rutland TeamTeam on activerecreation@rutland.gov.uk on activerecreation@rutland.gov.uk moremore information information or toor book to book please please or 01572 or 01572 720936.

720936. contact contact James James BettsBetts on 01572 on 01572 490030.

490030.

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Activelife

WHAT’S ON

Christmas is coming...

It’s almost upon us and all our local towns are gearing up for the festivities. It’s time to make the mulled wine and sample your first mince pie... and where better to do it than at one of these Christmas offerings?  Christmas in Uppingham takes place on Thursday, December 3. Most of Uppingham’s shops will take part in late night opening until 9pm. There will be a craft and gift fair, a free concert and, not to be missed, the skating rink in the Market Place. www.christmasinuppingham.co.uk  Oundle is holding its Christmas market on Saturday, December 6, from 12pm to 7pm. The food festival will be joining the traditionalal market. There will be carols, mince pies and mulled wine with the lights being switched on at 6pm and the local shops staying open until 7pm.  Stamford’s Christmas festival is on Sunday, November 29, between 10am and 6pm and will be held in the heart of the town around the High Street, Broad Street, Sheep Market and Red Lion Square. There will be lots of craft stalls, a children’s fun fair, Christmas carols, live reindeer and Santa’s Grotto (pictured right) all culminating with the lights being switched on.  Harringworth will be holding its Christmas bazaar in St John’s Church (pictured above) on November 21 between 10.30am and 1.30pm and

showing off its newly installed facilities at the same time. Pop along to the bazaar to buy some of the local produce, preserves, cakes and crafts carefully made by the villagers as well as the Harringworth Hampers, which are extremely popular.

 There’s a Christmas fair up at Burghley House on November 26-29. There will be lots of potential presents on offer. Or just yet enjoy the fine food market that is going on during the same weekend where you can buy lots of locally produced food.

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STAMFORD’S LARGEST FURNITURE SHOWROOM

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Activelife

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FRAGRANT SQUASH AND TOMATOES WITH HERB BULGHUR WHEAT Ingredients 1 small butternut squash 1 red onion 3 tomatoes 1 orange 25g ginger 150g bulghur wheat Olive oil 1 vegetable stock cube ½ tsp cinnamon 2 cloves 1 star anise Pinch of saffron 1 bay leaf 2 tsp brown sugar 30g coriander 30g parsley 15g mint Method Peel and finely slice the onion and roughly chop the tomatoes. Zest and juice the orange. Peel and finely chop/grate the ginger. Boil the kettle.

In a heatproof bowl mix the bulghur wheat with 3 tbsp olive oil and a generous seasoning of salt.

Dissolve the stock cube in 400ml of boiling water, tip over the bulghur wheat so it is just

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-bystep recipe cards and all the ingredients in exact quantities.

The recipes are quick to cook and ideal for week nights – most are ready in under 45 minutes. Think well balanced and nutritious,

covered, cover the bowl with a tight layer of clingfilm and leave to stand for 20 minutes.

Add the onion and tomatoes to a wide based pan along with the cinnamon, ginger, cloves, star anise, saffron, bay leaf, sugar and half the orange juice (1). Top up with 350 ml of water and simmer for 5 minutes.

Peel the butternut squash and chop into 2cm chunks. Add to the pan, season everything with salt and simmer for a further 15-20 minutes until tender and starting to collapse (2).

While the squash cooks, wash the coriander, parsley and mint. Shake dry, pick off the leaves and finely chop them all together.

Check the bulghur wheat, it should be tender with a definite chewiness and bite to it. Stir it well with a fork to break up the grains. Allow to cool a little until the squash has cooked.

When the squash is ready check the taste and season with salt if necessary.

Add the chopped herbs to the bulghur wheat along with half the orange zest and a few turns of black pepper (3). Serve the squash with the bulghur. Delicious!

1

2

3

Tip A low calorie, low fat delicious recipe. We found there was easily enough for three people.

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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Activelife

A day in the life of

MELISSA MASON

Forest School leader at The Children’s Garden in Stamford

I

run the pre-school room at The Children’s Garden Nursery and Montessori Pre-School in Stamford, and am in the final year of my Open University degree in early years education. I’m really excited because I’ve recently qualified as a Forest School leader so can put my skills into practice.

Forest School is becoming a big movement over here. It started in Denmark and is popular because technology is forcing children indoors. It means that parents who perhaps don’t have time to explore outside with their children during the weekends know their children are getting outdoor adventures during the week.

We offer bushcraft skills too which is learning about animals and insects and seeing what you can make using natural materials. The Forest School ethos is all about being out in the woods, enjoying the environment and taking risks.

A lot of schools and nurseries wouldn’t let children climb trees, for example, but we let them do it in a safe environment and let the children make their own assessments to decide if it’s safe or how they could make each situation safer.

We have a Mongolian yurt so when it’s cold we’re still able to spend all day outside as we can light the woodburner inside. The children help by screwing up the paper and getting the kindling ready and then we sit round it and warm up. It gets really toasty in there.

We try and use as many natural resources as possible: when we cut down our sunflowers, the children painted all of the heads then printed pictures with them.

Autumn is such an exciting time as all the leaves are falling and we collect many different fruits. We’ve also harvested loads of vegetables from our vegetable patch. This year we had courgettes, leeks, radishes, potatoes, cucumbers, and the pumpkins are on the way.

Our Forest School sessions are held on a piece of woodland which a local landowner has given us permission to use. We take the older children every other Monday in a minibus with a packed lunch.

We’ve built a tarpaulin shelter for when it rains and we play games to keep ourselves safe while we’re exploring like the ‘stop’ game and ‘one, two, three, where are you?’ The children know they have to be able to see and hear us wherever they are in the woods.

Each morning and afternoon we have a different activity and we can be in the garden from 8.30am until 6pm. We have lights outside which is fun and means we don’t have to come in when the nights draw in. In winter we’re 20

‘Autumn is such an exciting time as the leaves are falling and we collect fruits’ going to be stargazing – we won’t be able to see a lot but it’s nice to have a go.

I’ve always loved being outdoors, and was always a bit of a tomboy, going off on my bike, climbing trees in the woodland near my house and then going home for tea.

That’s one of the reasons I love working here as I’m outdoors so much. Even though it was raining this morning we went out and made a fire.

I live around the corner so it’s only a two

minute walk to work. I run marathons and run with the Stamford Striders.

Last year I ran the London Marathon and next year I’m going to do my first ultra-marathon along Hadrian’s Wall which will be 69 miles in under 24 hours.

It will be two days after my 30th birthday so it will be a good way to mark it!  The Children’s Garden Day Nursery and Montessori Pre-School, 33 Broad Street, Stamford.

01780 752094.

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Activelife

Five things to do in November

 It’s Bonfire Night so enjoy some fireworks.

There are quite a few local displays. One of the larger ones is the grand fireworks extravaganza on November 7 at Stamford Welland Academy in Green Lane. Gates open at 5pm with the bonfire lit at 6pm. Organised by Stamford and District Kiwanis, proceeds go to local charities.  The Dianas of the Chase Cup takes place on November 29 at Ingarsby Old Hall,

Leicestershire. Not for the faint hearted, this side-saddle cross-country charity ride is in aid of The Hunt Staff Benefit Society. A spectacular sight to see.

 Wrap-up warm and go for a walk. There’s nothing better than scuffing through fallen leaves – it brings out the big kid in all of us!

And at the same time gather some conkers.

 Stir-up Sunday falls in November so make your Christmas pudding. The last Sunday before Advent is the traditional day for making your pudding. Everyone in the family should take a turn at stirring and make a wish.

 Plant spring bulbs. Now is the time to plant daffodils, hyacinths and tulips in the garden or in pots. Do it this month, earlier in the month preferably, to have a fabulous display in the spring.

NEWS

New nursery opens A new nursery has just opened in Stamford, The Little Lane nursery in Silver Lane. It has places for 34 children aged from six weeks to five. To make sure the children and babies get plenty of fresh air the nursery has invested in a walking wagon.

“We will take the children and babies out once a day down to the Meadows or into Burghley Park to make sure they get some fresh air and exercise,” Victoria said.

Victoria and Emma, both young mums themselves, decided to open a nursery together when Emma, who is a qualifed nursery nurse, helped Victoria out with her two young children after she had an operation.

“Emma is amazing with children, we got chatting, hit it off, and decided that with our combined skills – mine in business, and Emma’s with children – we were the ideal pair to run a successful nursery,” Victoria added.  To find out more visit www.littlelanenursery.com or email info@littlelanenursery. com or 01780 752211

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Peterborough Milton Golf Club

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Come and discover the children’s nursery, based in the centre of Stamford, which not only believes that children learn more when they’re outside but actually makes it happen!

The Children’s Garden on Broad Street: • Our beautiful babies enjoy their own secure outside play space • Large walled garden with mud-pit, veggie patch and natural grass lawn - great for toddlers!

• Mongolian yurt outside classroom with wood-burner • Bushcraft activities • Slide from the pre-school room down to the garden • Regular Forest School sessions in woods close to town

Search for The Children’s Garden on Facebook or email thechildrensgarden@btinternet.com or call 01780 752094 The Children’s Garden Day Nursery & Montessori Pre-school: Helping children develop naturally since 1998

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Activelife

CHALLENGE

Rowing the Atlantic An intrepid quartet of Old Uppinghamians are preparing for a gruelling 3500 mile row across the Atlantic to raise money for two charities. This month we find out a bit more about what they are going to be doing….

Eat, sleep, row, repeat! Basically that is what the four will be doing on their epic 3500 mile row across the Atlantic Ocean starting in mid December. They will travel at a pace of a steady to fast walk - if all goes to plan. But they have a lot to contend with.

Weather conditions will be unpredictable so they will have to be able to deal with waves of up to 50 feet and hurricane strength winds, as well as a searing heat of 40 degrees.

And that’s only the elements. The lads will also have the physical challenge of bruised bodies

and blistered bottoms, aching muscles, fatigue and sleep deprivation. But it’s all in a good cause and they are training hard every day.

Jack Mayhew, Joe Barnett, Gus Barton and Angus Collins have been thinking about the practicalities as well and have worked out that they will consume 1,680,000 calories (the equivalent of 7,336 Big Macs) and drink 2,880 litres of water so have to decide where they are going to store everything on such a small boat.

They think the crossing will take them 60 days, pulling the oars 1,000,000 times, and they will get

only 240 hours of sleep each. That is not a lot of sleep. The boys will be rowing in two hour shifts, half the team rowing, the other half sleeping, eating and working on maintenance. So it really will be eat, sleep, row, repeat.  The team, known as Ocean Reunion, leave the Canary Islands on December 15 and are raising money for Cystic Fibrosis and Teenage Cancer Trust. Follow them on Facebook and at www.oceanreunion.co.uk which has a link to their Just giving page.  Are you planning a similar epic challenge? Drop an email to mary@theactivemag.com

A different sport every week for a year Four siblings from Rutland have set themselves a challenge to raise significant amounts of money for Cancer Research a er their ‘superman’ grandfather was diagnosed with cancer for the third time in 10 years. T he Newton/Fleet family, four siblings and an inlaw; Lucy, Carys, Alec, Holly and Mike have begun the 52in52 Challenge. They will take on 52 different sporting challenges in 52 weeks.

The family, who grew up in Greetham, luckily are a sporty lot. Activities in the challenge will include some sports they already do but will mainly be new ones.

The Challenge has already started and they have tackled kickboxing, Crossfit, Tai Chi and field archery to name a few. The team must complete a coached, organised training session or an event in each of the sports and can do it individually, in pairs or as a team. The four of them are hoping that local gyms and sports clubs will donate a free session to help them rise to the challenge.  To find out more about 52in52 follow the team on their blog 52in52site.wordpress.com. If anyone can offer them a free session please contact Louise on 01572 813531.

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22/10/2015 17:13

Activelife

With winter almost upon us, you need to think about caring for your chickens over the colder months, says Carrie Wright of The Clever Coop Company...  Providing additional feed will help towards building up their inner insulation.

Introducing ‘slow release’ grain such as whole wheat or maize will not only be heating, it will bulk your birds up.  Shorter days means fewer eggs.You will notice a decrease in egg production from your hens due to the shortened daylight hours. In addition, your birds will moult and all their energy and resources will be put towards the growth of new feathers. The increase of food will ensure a good strong feather formation and start the new laying period in prime condition.

LIFESTYLE

COOPED UP

 Do not be tempted to use excessive amounts of bedding in your housing. Filling your coop with hay and straw will only cause more problems as when soiled, the moist environment is a breeding ground for fungal growth – a potential respiratory risk.

As winter approaches, the Moody household’s chickens are getting militant about egg production

 Need advice? Call The Clever Coop Company on 01780 411194

O

ur chickens have clearly been reading about Jeremy Corbyn supposedly returning Labour to the dark old days of 1970s militancy.

They have decided to take the approach of Red Robbo and the strikers of that era, for they are on a go slow: the cold weather has seen a marked reduction in the number of eggs produced on a daily basis.

Being hybrids, they are bred to lay, so they haven’t called a complete halt, but nevertheless we are down to about one egg a day as the days get shorter and the weather colder. Quite how long this winter of discontent will last, I don’t know, so I looked it up on the internet.

Most chickens produce eggs at the fastest rate when there is a better chance their offspring will survive to maturity. Chicks clearly would not survive as well in cold weather. For a chicken, that gives them no reason to lay eggs in the winter, so their bodies automatically shut off egg laying for the colder months.

Chickens are ‘told’ to produce eggs by their endocrine system, a system of glands and organs that produce hormones. As the daylight hours shorten in winter, changes in these hormones shut down egg production. Adding additional light triggers the endocrine system into action, causing them to produce more eggs.

Continuously giving chickens light in the winter

fools their bodies into thinking that the days aren’t getting shorter at all.

But I’m not so sure we need to go down this route. At about 7am every morning Daisy lays an egg, and such is the squawking and hollering that giving them a rest for three or four months seems a good idea.

Although the longer hours in the coop has produced an interesting side effect: Ollie gets hen-pecked by the other two; nothing major, but her plumage is definitely a bit scruffier as a result. Perhaps that’s why she is always escaping – to get some peace. It seems all is not quiet so comradely in the Stamford branch of the Poultry Union after all…

NATURE

How to spot... the goldeneye Drake Goldeneye are one of the most striking of our winter wildfowl with their black and white plumage and a large white patch on the face.

Females are duller with a grey body and a brown head but with the distinctive angular head of the male.

Goldeneye are to be found on our reservoirs between October and March where they dive for snails and other invertebrates, often gathering in small flocks. Rutland Water is the key local site, attracting over three hundred in some winters.

Smaller numbers visit Eyebrook Reservoir, with one or two lingering into May at both waters.

In spring parties of displaying birds are a fine sight. The males throw back their heads and make a loud creaking call to impress the females.

The birds are very active, flying low over the water, the wings making a loud whistling sound.

Goldeneye breed in the northern conifer forests of Russia and Scandinavia, nesting in tree cavities, often high above the ground.

Newly-hatched ducklings must then leap from this secure nest before the female can lead them to a nearby lake. A few pairs breed in the Scottish Highlands using specially sited nestboxes.

Terry Mitcham

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Feature /// Fund-raiser

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STAMFORD OUT FOR SEB

Thousands raised in cycling event for schoolboy injured on rugby tour Photography: Pip Walters ON A SPECTACULARLY sunny weekend in September, Stamford Rugby organised a demonstration of teamwork and endeavour in the form of the SG500 sponsored cycle rides to raise funds for the Seb Goold Trust.

Seb Goold is a Stamford mini-rugby player who was injured falling from a moving coach while returning from a rugby tour at Easter 2014.

As Stamford Rugby Club president, Neil Jolly proudly proclaimed: “Seb is one of ours!”

Two cycle rides around Rutland Water were held: the first was an arduous 24-hour, non-stop relay, where 20 of Seb’s adult coaches and friends completed 18 circuits of the reservoir, covering the 500km that gave the event its name.

The second, and probably the most heartwarming ride was held on Saturday afternoon,

when 70 junior rugby players and friends aged 7-16 came together to complete a single, 17-mile lap of the reservoir. The boys and girls encouraged by parents, coaches and other volunteers, supported each other to complete the lap with no serious spills or incidents.

For this ride, players from Stamford Rugby were joined by young players from Kettering, Market Harborough, Nottingham Moderns, Oakham, Peterborough and Spalding rugby clubs, prompting Seb’s father Nick Goold to praise the humanity and support of the rugby family.

As well as those local enough to attend, Worksop RFC and Chesterfield Panthers RFC have contributed to the SG500, which has, so far, raised over £34,000 for the Seb Goold Trust.

The whole event has been declared a triumph – the weather was very kind, hundreds of people have donated their time, effort and thousands of pounds to the Trust, and the next generation of rugby players have had the opportunity to work together for a common cause. As one coach was heard to observe, “Our game is safe in their hands”.

Local mini-rugby player Connor Finlan collected over £850 to win the prize for the most sponsorship raised by a single player. Fittingly in Rugby World Cup year he was presented with a signed England RWC shirt.

There is still time to donate to the SG500 at www.JustGiving.com/SebGoold.

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22/10/2015 17:13

Below

Cro in the thick of it during one of Tigers’ pre-season Kings of the North games against Sale

Tigers’ Tom back in action Jeremy Beswick speaks to Tom Croft ahead of his testimonial season

I

t’s enough to make a man feel old. Those two Leicester Tigers youngsters, Tom Croft and Matt Smith (surely it was only yesterday they were playing for Oakham School together?), are entering their testimonial year. To be fair, they both have many years of rugby ahead, and reaching the 10-year mark is due to them joining Tigers at an early age, but it still comes as a shock to learn they both turn 30 this month.

Once I’d recovered from hearing the news I grabbed a few minutes of Tom’s time. As polite and gracious off the field as he is committed and ferocious on it, he isn’t taking the anniversary as an opportunity to look back and reflect on his career to date.

“For the last two to three years I’ve been out almost all the time with injury,” he reminded me. “So it’s more a case of champing at the bit to get back out in a Tigers shirt with the boys than reminiscing. That isn’t in my psyche at all.”

Following his latest set-back – a dislocated shoulder incurred playing against Newcastle in

March – it was good to see him do just that in Tigers’ opening league fixture against London Irish and to know he is still very much in the frame for England, training with the World Cup squad and joining them as an injury replacement a few games in.

“I’m focused on the future,” said Tom. “I was disappointed not to be more involved in the World Cup but if I can get through this season injury free I hope my time will come again. One of my ambitions is to go on a third Lions tour.”

Perhaps mindful that an England recall may come his way, he was reticent on the reasons for their poor performance. “It was a tough pool.

The post mortem will be long and detailed.

Obviously it was frustrating, and I feel especially for the lads from Leicester, but the silver lining is it’s good for the Tigers to have them back relatively fresh.”

What was the stand-out performance for him?

“I thought New Zealand were awesome and inspiring against France.”

Tom and Matt go back a long way so it makes

sense for them to have their testimonial events together, and they were touched that a few key individuals have put together an ad-hoc committee to help them organise a series of events to mark the anniversary.

“We’ll be announcing more throughout the year,” said Tom, “but for now we’ve a number of dinners in London and a ladies’ night at Welford Road in December. We hope to have six or seven hundred there and the players will be waiters for the evening. It’s sponsored by Ann Summers, but I ‘m not sure yet what I’ll be wearing.”

I do hope none of the forwards own a mankini. Worthy causes benefitting will be the Matt Hampson Trust and the Prostate Project.

In addition there will be a ball at Oakham School, hopefully on the evening of speech day, and the committee is working hard on other ideas that will be announced in due course.

If you want to stay in touch with developments, the Twitter feed is @ croftsmithtest and we’ll also do our best to bring you the details as they emerge.

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Guest column

Upsets, a commentator’s curse and the Law of Sod Martin Johnson explores what happens when things go wrong ife is full of laws. The law of averages, the law of diminishing returns, the law of the jungle… but in my experience the law which is always lurking just around the corner is the Law of Sod. In sport, this is sometimes known as the commentator’s curse. You know the thing – a player lines up a penalty, the commentator says ‘this man never misses. If you wanted someone to score for your life you’d take him every time…’ and you can put any money you like on the ball flying towards the corner flag. Sod’s Law. There is a hard and fast rule for journalists covering Ashes cricket in Australia, which is never to forget the time difference. And I only disregarded it once in several visits, when England were playing so badly in Adelaide that when play ended on day four I informed the reader that they should perhaps make the same sea voyage as the original settlers, only in reverse – manacled below decks and served with a tasty weevil biscuit when the dinner gong sounded.

You can guess the rest. Australia collapsed, and when people back home were digesting my suggestion over the breakfast table that the entire team be incarcerated in the Tower of London, the radio was informing them of a glorious English victory.

And so it was last month in the Rugby World Cup, when I was appointed to cover Tonga v Georgia. With every player on the field a cross between Jonah Lomu and Oddjob, the tackling was so bone crunching it prompted me to write that the days of rugby being a game for all shapes and sizes were a distant memory.

An open invitation for Sod’s Law to make another appearance, and within 24 hours South Africa had been beaten by Japan. Next to the Springboks, the Japanese looked like Subbuteo players, and as sporting earthquakes go, this was about 11 on the Richter Scale. It was described at the time as the biggest upset in rugby history, although it has a strong claim to be the biggest upset in sport, never mind rugby. Which got me to thinking about sporting contests which had produced similarly seismic upsets.

Boxing has seen a few upsets, two of them involving Muhammad Ali. The first when – as Cassius Clay – he beat Sonny Liston, and then towards the end of his career when he knocked out George Foreman. But an even bigger shock took place in 1990, which I witnessed from a Jamaican hotel beach bar during England’s cricket tour to the West Indies.

Amusingly, when a sponsor put up a large bonus for England winning the series against the then all-powerful West Indies, a

L

colleague wrote: “there’s about as much chance of them collecting as Buster Douglas has of beating Mike Tyson”. A few days later, we were watching Tyson, brain so scrambled he was crawling around on all fours trying to put his gumshield into his ear.

The Open golf championship traditionally ends with a bigwig from the R&A saying “the winner of the gold medal, and the champion golfer of the year, is….” followed by someone famous coming up to collect the claret jug. But in 2003 the speech could easily have gone something like ….”and the champion golfer of the year is, er, um, hang on, it’ll come to me in a moment...” It was, in fact, an American by the name of Ben Curtis, who was ranked 396th in the world, had never won a tournament and had never played in a major. There were America golf writers who’d never heard of him, and yet Curtis, a 300-1 shot, won by a single stroke.

In 1981, the England cricket team were not 300-1 to beat Australia at Headingley, but 500-1, the odds flashing up on the electronic scoreboard when England, at 135 for 7 in their second innings, still required 39 to make Australia bat again. At the time, I was covering a county game in Leicester and play was constantly interrupted by cheers from a crowd plugged into radios. At one point the Leicestershire batsman Chris Balderstone complained and there was a loudspeaker announcement asking for the radios to be turned off.

There have been many upsets in horse racing, but nothing quite like Foinavon winning the 1967 Grand National. A 100-1 shot, Foinavon was so far behind when a loose horse (Popham Down) caused a pile up at the 23rd fence, that his jockey was able to avoid the carnage and ended up 30 lengths clear.

But as profiteers of sporting pile ups go, not even Foinavan can match Australian speed skater Steve Bradley in the 2002 Winter Olympics at Salt Lake City. Bradley was actually eliminated after his quarter final race, only to find himself re-instated when one of the qualifiers was subsequently disqualified, then got through to the final when three of the four men ahead of him crashed.

Bradley was then tailed off in the semi-final when three of the four men ahead of him crashed, and he now found himself in the final, 15 metres behind in last place with 50 metres to go. Amazingly, on the final bend, all four of the men in front took each other out, and Bradbury skated through to become the first ever southern hemisphere winner of a Winter Olympic event.

Thirteen years on, the vernacular Down Under for an improbable event has become known as “pulling a Bradbury.” Sadly, not enough proper ski jumpers managed to land on their heads, or embed themselves in a snow drift to do something similar for Eddie the Eagle Edwards.

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Feature /// Christmas gifts

Kitbag

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With so cushioning this is a lightweight shoe ready to give you great comfort.

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Buff neck warmers Ideal for the chilly months. Warm, comfortable and hundreds of different designs and colours available.

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The 66Fit EVA Foam Roller can help smooth out those tight spots and Price £28 From www. rutlandlifestyle.

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Feature /// Christmas gifts Harkilla Pro Hunter jacket

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S7 remote trolley Boasting a sophisticated guidance system, utilising two motors to provide a combination of power and precision, plus an anti-tip wheel to ensure stability.

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Deep Heat roll on Aku Erera GTX

Treat those aches and pains with this handy roll on applicator. Comes with a herbal aroma. Price: £4.99 From: Boots, Tesco and chemists

Lightweight, comfortable and supportive hiking and trekking boot.

Price: £125 From: Get Lost in Rutland

Fox & Crop cable knit jumper Three quarter, threebutton collar detail with leather hem patch on this quality jumper.

Price: £55 From: www. foxandcropclothing.co.uk

TomTom Runner2 + Music GPS watch Take over 500 tracks with you on your wrist with 3GB of storage - phoneless and wireless. Audio performance feedback allows you to concentrate on running and get information on how you are doing as you are running.

Price: £189.99 From: Leicester Running Shop

Exposure Equinox Mk2 front bike light with 3.1A cell A wireless remote switch changes modes effortlessly without sacrificing speed on this light, bright helmet mounted light.

Price: £238.99 From: www.rutlandcycling.com

3 6 NOV E M BE R 2015 ///

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Asics winter beanie

You’ll be able to focus on the road ahead as this beanie blocks out chilly gusts with 3-layer windblocker material.

Price: £16.99 From: Rutland Sports

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STK Intense Bluetooth headphones Enjoy wireless stereo music from any Bluetooth device. The built-in microphone allows hands-free calling.

Price: £69.99 From: www.stklife.com

Schoffel socks

Rugby stripe design shooting sock with matching garters. Price: £49.95 From: www.schoffel.co.uk

The Nutri Ninja® with Auto-iQ For your nutrient and vitamin extraction needs.

Unique blending, pulsing and pausing patterns.

Price: £119.95 From: www.johnlewis.com

Ronhill Vizion bib

With adjustable straps and mesh material, this hi-viz vest is perfect to place on top of your running outfit.

Price: £11.99 From: Rutland Sports

Animal Men’s Allex beanie A dual layered beanie hat constructed with a rib knit weave. Price: £15 From: www.shop.animal.co.uk

Percutane Joint Action A deep penetrating solution for assisting joint mobility and flexibility. Price: £16.99 for 75g From: Philip Cutts Pain Management & Rehabilitation Group

Munkees keyrings Keyrings including handy tools. Price: £4.99 each or 3 for the price of 2. From: www.getlostinrutland.co.uk

Tribe Sports long sleeve running tops Used as the primary layer in warmer weather, or as a base layer in cooler weather, this top offers year round versatility. Available in men’s and women’s styles.

Price: £26 From: TribeSports.com

STK Neptune power bank Never be without power for your USB chargeable devices. Price: £39.99 From: www.stklife.com

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Rockingham Cars, Cockerell Road, Corby, Northamptonshire NN17 5DU. Tel: 01536 268991 WWW.ROCKINGHAMCARS.CO.UK The New Abarth 595 Factory Racing starts from £17,420 OTR. Official fuel consumption figures for Abarth 595 Factory Racing Edition: mpg (l/100km): Combined 47.1 (6.0), Urban 35.8 (7.9), Extra urban 57.6 (4.9), CO2 Emissions: 139 g/km. Fuel consumption and CO2 figures are obtained for comparative purposes in accordance with EC directives/ regulations and may not be representative of real-life driving conditions. Model shown is the Abarth 595 Yamaha Factory Racing Edition 1.4 T-Jet 160 HP at £17,890 OTR including Gara White paint at £300 and optional Side Stripe and Mirror covers at £170. Abarth UK is a trading style of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles UK Ltd.

Feature /// Christmas gifts

WIN ALL THIS! TO ENTER, GO TO www.theactivemag.com/competitions

Schoffel merino scarf

66Fit EVA Foam Roller The 66Fit EVA Foam Roller can help smooth out those tight spots and niggles. Price: £28 From: www. rutlandlifestyle.

Luxurious 100% merino printed scarf.

Price: £54.95 From: www. schoffel.co.uk

Jimbag canvas duffel shoulder bag Made in Great Britain, this 100% cotton canvas duffel shoulder bag is sure to turn heads in the gym.

Price: £34.99 From: www.jimbag.co.uk

Noble Outfitters Peddies Add some colour to your outfit with these socks.

Price: £9.95 From: www. nobleoutfitters.co.uk

UK Parachuting gift voucher

Asics Lite-Show winter jacket

Valid for 12 months from date of purchase.

Restrictions apply. Price: from £199 From: www. skydivesibson.co.uk (Plus indoor skydiving with Bodyflight Bedford from £75.)

You’ll never be forced inside because of the weather thanks to a lightweight, so shell front and a fleece-lined collar. Price: £79.99 From: Rutland Sports

Noble Outfitters Perfect Fit Gloves Lightweight and durable, with breathable Spandex.

Price: £17.50 From: www. nobleoutfitters.co.uk

My Trusty sunflower cream Developed by the NHS and used by staff treating patients recovering from burns and plastic surgery.

Price: £6.99 for 100ml unscented tube From: www.mytrusty.co.uk

The Wave Fork The innovative design that makes mucking out a breeze. Order your choice of coloured tines for a stand-out look on the yard. For colour choices see website.

One size only.

Price: £39.95 From: www. nobleoutfitters.co.uk

On Running Cloud trainers Built from Zero-Gravity foam, the Cloud unites lightness with superior cushioning.

Price: £110 From: www.on-running.com

Castelli Alpha Wind Jersey FZ Excellent weather protection, comfort, and specifically made to the geometry of your body to ensure an exact fit.

Price: £174.99 From: www.rutlandcycling.com

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Feature /// Winter sports

WINTER WONDERLAND

FIND YOUR

BLENDE64

Still undecided where to go for your next skiing holiday? We’ve compiled a list of the cheapest, friendliest, most extreme and costliest resorts on the planet

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BUDGET SKIING

Arinsal, Andorra Back in the 1980s, Andorra was the location skiers whispered about as a great spot for a cheap and cheeky weekend ski. It ha increased in price since then, but the facilities have improved commensurately too. It’s not the place to return to time and again, but if you’re a first-time skier or boarder, or a keen freestyler, Arinsal’s gentle nursery slopes and massive terrain park are a good place to start, and there’s a lively atmosphere in the resort’s bars and discos.

Bregenzerwald, Austria The entire 150 miles of skiing in the Bregenzerwald region is linked by free buses and a single lift pass, and has a relaxed atmosphere. There’s none of the party-all-night madness of some Austrian resorts, with good value accommodation in family-owned hotels attracting mostly families and couples. There’s a new lift connection to Lech, one of Austria’s most celebrated expensive resorts, but prices are at the opposite end of the price spectrum.

Kranjska Gora, Slovenia The pretty village of Kranjska Gora is a perfect example of a cheap eastern European ski resort establishing its place in the market - so get there before it hikes prices. Ideal for beginners and families wanting compact, gentle tree lined slopes, there’s not much challenging terrain, but it is great value.

Les Menuires, France Pick up a very reasonably priced self-catering apartment in Les Menuires, in the same valley as Val Thorens, and you can sneak over into the Three Valleys without paying the five star prices of the region.

Poland First impressions of Zakopane, south of Krakow, is that you get all of the whimsical chocolate box buildings and character of Switzerland, and the decent skiing illustrates why it is Poland’s most popular resort. But there’s not the food, organisation and lift structure of its famous southerly neighbour. There’s not the extortionate prices either, though.

Bulgaria The Lidl of skiing for decades, there’s plenty of choice of cheap and cheerful skiing in Bulgaria.

The oldest and biggest resort is Borovets, which has been completely modernised and boasts pistes up to a very respectable 2,600m.

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Feature /// Winter sports

Mammoth Mountain, California Looking for plenty of powder and long days of endless skiing? Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort boasts an impressive 400 inches of annual snowfall and the highest summit elevation in California. It lives up to its name by offering over 3,500 skiable acres and a 3,100ft vertical drop.

EXCLUSIVE SKIING

Megève, France A charming traditional Savoyard town, Megève famously attracts an affluent clientele including many celebrities. There are no huge hotels or other mass market elements: indeed, this is one of the main attractions of this pretty medieval town with its narrow, cobbled streets and exclusive boutiques and prices to match. Ski wear invariably must include some real fur…

FAMILY SKIING

Alpe d’Huez, France Above Alpe d’Huez is a vast bowl of easy green runs, which are ideal for kids starting out with skiing or snowboarding, and once they have got the hang of it, there’s a good range of blues to progress on to. For those looking to learn tricks, the terrain park at Alpe d’Huez isn’t the most extreme either. There are plenty of self-catering apartments and hotels, but perhaps the best option for families is the ski-in, ski-out Club Med Alpe d’Huez La Sarenne.

Avoriaz, France In car-free Avoriaz travel is by horse drawn sleighs, which is bound to excite the kids, as is the Village des Enfants which features Disney characters and slopes designed for the very youngest skiers. It is a functional rather than pretty resort though, with mainly self-catering apartments blocks.

Cervinia, Italy Cervinia isn’t a big resort, but it’s a good place for kids who are starting to progress: pick a hotel near the nursery slopes close to the village centre. From these, progression to the gentle blue runs at Plan Maison then the cruising reds at Valtournenche is a realistic achievement for any beginner.

Saas Fee, Switzerland The car-free village of Saas-Fee in Valais is a perfect choice for young families - it’s a rural haven perfect for just strolling around and relaxing in. Saas Fee is also a great destination for those with older kids, with two terrain parks.

Ylläs, Finland As with much of Scandinavia, Finland offers a very different skiing experience, which is ideal for families because the locals tend to come in, ski and go home. This means the evenings are quiet, chilled and peaceful. Ylläs, with its gentle

Arctic landscape, is ideal for beginners, although accommodation tends not to be beside the slopes.

EXTREME SKIING

Jackson Hole, USA Jackson Hole is only for expert skiers because the terrain is all steep and very little is groomed.

On a powder day, which is most days, drop into the Hobacks or hire a guide, head to the Cody bowl or attempt the legendary Corbett’s Couloir: plenty have looked over the edge at the 20-foot drop and walked away…

Chamonix, France Chamonix offers everything for the extreme skier, with some adrenaline-buzz drops off the glaciers of Les Grand-Montets and Mont Blanc, and lots of off-piste skiing throughout the valley for boarders. The legendary Vallée Blanche tour from the Aiguille du Midi is talked of in hushed tones, but it’s as much for the roped climb in on a mountain ridge above a 2km drop than the fairly easy off-piste run when you get there.

Verbier, Switzerland Verbier thinks of itself as the home of extreme skiing and hosts several competitions each year to prove it. With short hikes from the cable cars you can get to legendary runs like Stairway to Heaven, Rock Garde or over the back side of Mont Fort to really get the adrenaline flowing.

The clinics for expert skiers in Verbier are probably the best in Europe.

Grindelwald, Switzerland Grindelwald is picturesque and the skiing in the area is varied and challenging, with the Lauberhorn downhill course a serious proposition. But it’s the geography that makes it so impressive, dominated by the north face of the Eiger. This is the Alps at their most beautiful, and brutal.

Courchevel 1850, France Courchevel 1850 has long been the flagship for exclusive ski holidays in France. Boasting two Michelin-starred restaurants, the place to be seen is Le Cap Horn up on the slopes, from where you can watch other diners flying into the tiny snow covered Altiport airfield, right below the restaurant. In recent years the Russian oligarchs have taken over Courchevel 1850 in the first week of January for their New Year party.

St Moritz, Switzerland Here the adventurous eccentrics of European gentry risk their lives on the infamous Cresta Toboggan Run, race their horses on the frozen lake, and then try a little skijoring (skiing dragged behind unbroken horses on the lake at speeds over 50kph). The skiing is great, but the people-watching combined with the off mountain activities make it a mind blowing destination. Go in February to do the Cresta and see the horse races.

Whistler, Canada Whistler Blackcomb attracts the jet set crowd from across the world to ski its two amazing mountains and experience the best of Canadian hospitality. The ski school and guiding services here are arguably the best in the world and well worth the costs, while the amount of terrain available to ski is staggering. Heli-skiing here is very popular too, for those with fistfuls of dollars.

Aspen, Colorado Aspen is old-school money, in the American sense, and has been the home to celebrities and billionaires for 40 years but still stays true to its mining town roots with down to earth locals and strict adherence to an architectural code. For posing and celeb spotting you have to ski on the Ajax Mountain right above the town. Hotel Jerome is popular with movie stars and billionaires alike, and its J Bar is the ideal spot to rub shoulders with the Hollywood elite.

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ActiveFit

THOMAS NORTHCUT

EXPERT ADVICE ON GETTING, AND KEEPING, IN GREAT SHAPE

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Healthy produce: higher productivity If you eat well, you will work better, a new study has discovered NOT EATING HEALTHILY and a lack of exercise can lead to marked drops in productivity at work, a study has found.

A new study that will be published in the journal Population Health Management has claimed that eating unhealthily is linked with a 66% increased risk of loss of productivity, while rare exercise is linked with a 50% increased risk of low productivity.

And smoking is linked with a 28% increased risk of loss of productivity, researchers found.

“Total health-related employee productivity loss accounts for 77% of all such loss,” study researcher Ray Merrill, a health science professor at Brigham Young University, said in a statement.

The study included 19,803 people who worked at one of three large companies. The research was conducted by researchers at Brigham Young University, the Centre for Health Research at Healthways and the Health Enhancement Research Organisation.

It’s an issue that financial services organisation, BGL Group, headquartered in Peterborough’s Orton Southgate, is aware of and as a result is committed to encouraging and supporting its employees in leading a healthy and active lifestyle.

The group takes healthy eating seriously. Its state of the art restaurants serve organic and locally sourced fresh produce, there is free fruit for all and smoothies.

On average, a staggering 16,249 pieces of fruit are consumed each month across BGL’s offices while the recently launched ‘smart choice’ section of the menu (meals under 500 calories) has proven a big hit in the restaurants as have the deli and salad bars.

BGL source its fresh meat and vegetables from local, organic suppliers. Highlighting BGL’s commitment to supporting the local community and its goal of providing fresh, healthy food to all of its employees.

Phil Croney, fitness manager, explained the benefits of having onsite dietary advice: “Our in-house fitness coaches have extensive experience in providing healthy eating and nutritional advice to a range of athletes, gym goers and working professionals. If someone wants to they can use an online food diary app to analyse their consumption on a day-by-day basis and we can advise them on how they can further improve.”

Discussing the common themes found when providing the nutritional advice, Phil added: “Often our advice involves highlighting the surprisingly high levels of sugars or fats that are in the food and drink that people consuming every day. These often lead to a feeling of fatigue. Our sessions provide advice on various food groups and meals which are focused on energising people for longer and leading to a more productive day, and increasing the general levels of health across the group.”

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Health & Wellness EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO BE FIT, HEALTHY AND FANTASTIC

// Edited by Sandie Hurford

Some eager advocates for us all to take up a vegan diet, no doubt

WORLD VEGAN MONTH: The Great Vegan Challenge The Great Vegan Challenge, which takes place every November during World Vegan Month, is masterminded by animal welfare charity Animal Aid and aims to persuade people to try going vegan for 30 days.

What is a vegan diet?

A vegan diet is 100% plant-based. Like lactovegetarians, vegans do not eat animal flesh or fish, but they also avoid all other animal products, including dairy products, honey and eggs.

As the number of vegans has increased, says Animal Aid, it has become increasingly easy to live healthily without using animal products, particularly for food, clothing, entertainment, household products or cosmetics. There are also claimed to be health and environmental advantages to a vegan diet.

What do vegans eat?

Pretty much the same as everyone else! For those

who like cooking from fresh ingredients, recipes embrace dietary traditions from around the world.

Cakes and puddings can be made easily without eggs and dairy.

If you prefer convenience foods, simply replace animal products with the many vegan alternatives that are widely available in wholefood stores, high street shops and supermarkets.

These include vegan sausages, burgers, mince, bacon, ham/chicken/turkey sandwich slices and fishless fingers, as well as vegan cheeses, milk, custard, ice-creams, yoghurts, cream, margarines and mayonnaise.

Health issues Animal products are not essential for health, and a well-balanced vegan diet can provide all the necessary nutrients for a healthy diet.

The US Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics – the world’s largest organisation of food and nutrition professionals – says: ‘Appropriately planned

vegetarian diets, including total vegetarian or vegan diets, are healthful, nutritionally adequate, and may provide health benefits in the prevention and treatment of certain diseases.

Well-planned vegetarian diets are appropriate for individuals during all stages of the life cycle, including pregnancy, lactation, infancy, childhood, and adolescence, and for athletes.’

US doctors have had success treating heart disease patients, including former US president Bill Clinton, on a 100% plant-based diet and have shown that it can prevent and, in some cases, actually reverse heart disease.

There is also said to be evidence linking a vegetarian diet with lower incidence of some cancers. A decade-long study carried out by Oxford University epidemiologists – published in the British Journal of Cancer in 2009 – found that vegetarians were 12% less likely to contract cancer than their meat-eating counterparts. For some cancers, the difference was up to 45%.

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Active Fit

WORLD VEGAN MONTH Recipes to try Mushroom stroganoff (serves 4) Ingredients • Dairy-free margarine for frying • 2 medium onions, peeled and chopped • 3 large clove garlic, peeled and crushed • 500g mushrooms, sliced • 150ml vegan white wine • 1 heaped tbsp cornflour • 250ml soya cream • Lemon juice • Freshly ground black pepper Method Fry the onions and garlic in a little margarine until so . Add the mushrooms and cook through. Once the mushrooms are cooked, add the wine and simmer until it has evaporated.

Mix 3 tbsps of water with the cornflour to make a paste and then add this and the cream to the vegetables. Simmer for 15 minutes. Add a good squeeze of lemon juice and season with black pepper. Serve with rice. ©flavourphotos.com

Sausage and bean casserole (2-4) Ingredients • 2tbsps olive oil for frying • 1 onion, peeled and sliced • 1 courgette or carrot, sliced (optional) • 1/2tsp smoked paprika • 1x400g tin chopped tomatoes or 1/2 jar passata • 1x400g tin white beans (eg butter beans or cannelini) • 4 veggie sausages, sliced • 1/2tsp vegetable bouillon powder • Chopped parsley to taste • Freshly ground black pepper to taste Method Heat the oil in a pot and sauté the onion and courgette or carrot until so .

Add the paprika and stir briefly. Then add the tomatoes, beans and sausages. Add the bouillon powder and stir. Add water if needed.

Cook for 10 minutes until the liquid is reduced. Add fresh parsley and black pepper as required.

Serve with jacket potato or rice.

Liz Hughes - www.ourlizzy.com Research findings indicating that eating red meat increases early mortality rates have been given added authority by a study conducted at Harvard University and based on data from 121,342 men and women over a 28-year period.

Figures show that eating processed red meat (eg. hot dogs or bacon) raised mortality rates by 20%. Non-processed meats also led to increased risk of death – particularly from cancer and heart disease – by 13%.

Summarising the results, senior author Professor Frank Hu, of Harvard School of Public Health in Boston, said: ‘This study provides clear evidence that regular consumption of red meat, especially processed meat, contributes substantially to premature death.’

Studies have also linked consumption of animal products with increasing risk of obesity, diabetes, osteoporosis, asthma, eczema, bowel disease, arthritis, gallstones, Alzheimer’s, kidney disease and Crohn’s disease.

Fish A popular modern myth is that fish is necessary to human health because it is the only source of vital omega-3 fats. This is not so. Tom Sanders, professor of nutrition and dietetics at Kings College London, states: ‘We have studied omega-3 fatty acid levels in vegans for over 30 years and shown that vegans can make DHA (long-chain omega-3 fatty acids) from alpha-linolenic acid.

Rich sources of alpha-linolenic acid include soybeans including soya milk and tofu, walnuts, rapeseed oil, flaxseed and dark green vegetables such as spinach.’

Despite its reputation as a healthy food, up to 30% of the fat in fish can be saturated. The fats act like a sponge, soaking up toxins – including mercury and cancer-causing dioxins – from polluted oceans.

Nearly half of all the fish eaten today are farmed. In an attempt to limit disease in the crowded underwater cages, farmed fish are given

vaccines, antibiotics and chemicals with known human health risks.

Dairy milk Cows’ milk is promoted as a healthy product that will help to keep hair, skin and nails looking good, build muscles and strong bones, and provide daily calcium requirements. Yet there are no nutrients in animal milk that cannot be obtained from vegan alternatives.

Moreover, there are serious problems that can result from the proteins, sugar and fat in milk products. Milk contains significant amounts of saturated fat, as well as cholesterol, which can lead to obesity and contribute to heart disease and certain forms of cancer. And, contrary to common belief, eating excessive amounts of dairy products can actually contribute to weak bones and osteoporosis, rather than protect them.

■ You can order a free Guide to Going Vegan at www.govegan.org.uk/

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Are you ready for the game season?

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14/10/2015 10:37 20/07/2012 09:20 12:37 22/07/2012

ANTONIO_DIAZ

// Active Fit

‘HIIT’ YOURSELF FIT

How High Intensity Interval Training can get you fit, even if you don’t have much time HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) has been one of 2015’s biggest exercise trends, giving time-poor Britons the formula for spending fewer minutes working out while burning more calories.

HIIT is a training technique, which consists of short, explosive periods of maximum effort exercise followed by rest periods – making it quicker and more efficient than an average cardio session.

HIIT also helps to burn calories even after the work out is finished thanks to EPOC – excess post-exercise oxygen consumption. This is triggered through challenging both anaerobic and aerobic systems during training. EPOC can last over 24 hours meaning the body is in an elevated fat loss state during this duration.

However, while the rewards are great, they are reliant on getting the technique spot on. Incorrect technique and over training are common mistakes amongst beginners as well as many regular HIIT enthusiasts.

To help you get maximum output from your sessions, the experts from health app Noom Coach, have put together advice and tips designed to aid safe and effective training.

Noom Coach expert Susanne Wechsler, says:

“HIIT is an intense type of training, which is not for the faint-hearted, however, it is a type of exercise that you can build up to.

“Incorporating body weight exercises, such as burpees and squats into your current routine enables you to perfect the techniques before including them in a HIIT workout.”

Beginners are recommended to start with shorter bursts of maximum effort combined with resting periods that are two to three times longer.

For example 20 seconds of high intensity exercise followed by a one minute rest.

As your fitness increases, the rest period can decrease, for example 30 seconds of high intensity with a 10 second rest.

HIIT can be integrated into any form of exercise. The most common type of HIIT is sprints; sprinting at maximum effort for 30 seconds and then walk/jog for 60 seconds.

The workout intensity can be increased by changing a few factors; increase sprint time, decrease rest time or increase speed during sprint.

Incorporating HIIT in a circuit format is also popular. This involves performing various exercises, such as mountain climbers, press-ups and crunches at full effort followed by a short rest before moving on to the next exercise.

An example HIIT circuit:

30 seconds work, 10 seconds rest, repeat circuit three times • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Burpees REST Squat REST Mountain climbers REST Bicycle crunch REST Box jump REST Tricep dips REST Jumping Jacks REST Push ups REST

It is important to manage the work to rest ratio based on your own fitness levels. Make sure to start slow and build up, but make sure you are always challenging yourself a little more each time you do a HIIT session.

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// Active Fit

Train as an all-rounder

Even if your sport demands a focus on one discipline, you need to develop strength, mobility, speed and stability to improve, says Function Jigsaw’s Max Hartman ‘I DON’T WANT TO GET TOO HEAVY’, ‘weight training makes you too stiff’, and ‘I need to be more flexible’ are all phrases that I hear repeatedly in clinic.

Athletes looking to perform better in their chosen discipline may focus too much on one form of training or not enough on another because they are worried about potential negative affects on performance in sport.

With the marathon season upon us, here at Function Jigsaw we have been full up with keen runners looking to get themselves ready for their next big race and time after time when strength training is recommended, they have reservations, yet they will regularly perform speed work on the track, balance and control work in the gym, and when certain flexibility training is prescribed, there is very rarely any hesitation and the athlete buys in to the programme immediately.

One thing that I regularly try to convey to these athletes is that strength; mobility, speed and stability all go hand in hand to produce improvements in the skill of the sport: running.

While this is just one example, we see the same pattern emerge in athletes of all disciplines: bodybuilders focussing purely on strength and muscle growth with little focus on stability or mobility, rugby players focussing purely on strength and speed: the list goes on.

stiff, there is often an underlying cause as to why. If the calves are particularly weak, or the athlete is not stable at the ankle joint, the brain must still perform the same skill and run, but in order to do so will restrict movement around the ankle to make up for the weakness and instability, resulting in long term muscular tightness. Again this is just one example of needing a blend of physical capacities to effectively perform a skill that people often see as just the result of cardiovascular fitness.

How our brain makes our body move

To understand fully why all of these areas need to be kept in balance it is crucial to understand how the brain makes our body move, and how this movement is determined.

Physical capacities - strength, speed, mobility, and stability - are all factors which impact how we perform skills: running, jumping, throwing.

Our brain is actually very good at performing movements in the most efficient way possible based on the raw materials available to it: our physical capacities.

Think of the brain as a highly trained and experienced builder. If we ask it to build a house, i.e. perform a skill, it will do so to a high standard provided it is given the raw materials to do so: bricks, mortar, tools. While each sport and sporting skill require different amounts of each capacity, to perform the skill as well as possible we must have an abundance of all capacities available to us.

Going back to our example of a marathon runner, we may have an athlete come through the door who is a very good runner, naturally very quick, yet is consistently cramping in the calves or suffering severe calf tightness following their race.

While they may actually be very tight and

So how do you perform at your best?

Ensure that your training for your given sport encompasses elements that aim to develop all of your capacities simultaneously, improvements in athletic performance will surely follow.

Granted, marathon runners should not devote five days a week to heavy weight training, but a well structured strength training programme developing maximal force and stability will overall have a benefit on performance. Similarly, while mobility through the whole body is essential for remaining injury free and able to reach all the positions of your chosen sport, without training strength and stability in extreme ranges of motion, this mobility is extremely hard to keep hold of.

Putting all of this into practice, mobility is one of the most crucial capacities to develop in the first instance. Using tools such as foam rollers, hockey balls, and heavy stretch bands can be useful in developing greater ranges of motion

around selected joints either in isolation or by stretching multiple joints simultaneously.

Resources such as ‘Becoming a Supple Leopard’ by Dr Kelly Starrett are superb reference points for developing better mobility.

Exercises that include dynamic stretching as opposed to old fashioned static stretches are much more effective for producing long-term improvements in mobility, so always strive to keep a stretch as active as possible.

Gaining range of motion lets you then perform stability and strength training through greater ranges too, leading to greater gains in muscular development and control in the long term.

While strength training will generally improve stability, it is vitally important to distinguish between stability focussed training and strength focussed training. Strength training should always be performed from a stable surface so that you can focus your effort on moving the weight and not just holding your balance. Stability training on the other hand greatly benefits from the introduction of an unstable surface to force the brain to coordinate movement with added complexity.

Finally, because of its great strain on the body, speed training should only be performed once a strong physical foundation has been laid with other training. Explosive speed training puts phenomenal strain on the joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. If these tissues are not suitably conditioned then high impact, explosive training can lead to injury.

So, putting it all together: no matter what your discipline, always remember you are first and foremost an athlete, not just a runner, rugby player, footballer, or whatever else you spend your weekends doing!

To give yourself the best possible chance of performing at the highest level it is crucial that you develop a mobile, stable, strong and fast body that can then be applied effectively to a sporting skill. You cannot be truly athletic without first striving to develop a high level of all four of these capacities.

Aim to train to become mobile first and foremost, then develop strength and stability through this range of motion, and finally learn to apply this strength quickly. See how your performance benefits from putting this into practice!

Information

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5 0 NOV S E P TE E MM BE BR E R2015 2 0 1//5/ ///

50-51 SL FEATURE Injury OK.indd 50

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27/10/2015 09:40

Feature /// Great walks

John Clare’s Helpston A serious leg stretch in poetic footsteps which begins and ends at a decent pub.

What more could you want, asks Will Hetherington?

Photography: Will Hetherington

Difficulty rating (out of five)

THE ROUTE

Clockwise, from above

The Blue Bell makes an obvious refreshment stop a er this walk; don’t miss the le turn shortly a er this striking dead tree; John Clare’s house, now a museum and visitor centre, is the start and end point of this walk

You can park on Woodgate, right outside John Clare cottage where the famous peasant poet was born in 1793. This remarkable man who was born to illiterate farm-labouring parents went to school in Glinton until the age of 12 and this was where his latent lyrical talent was first nurtured.

Since his death his fame has spread far and he is admired far more now than he ever was in life. If you happen to be here on a Friday, Saturday or Monday you can pay to look round the cottage and learn a lot more between 11am and 4pm. Last entry is 3pm and you can find out more at www. clarecottage.org But if it’s the walk you want then the footpath strikes out east directly opposite the Blue Bell pub next to John Clare cottage. After about 200 yards turn right just after the little footbridge and

after another 200 yards turn left. Follow the footpath posts and you will soon see the path cutting diagonally across a field towards College Cottages. Here you walk south through the farmyard on the farm track.

When you get to the T-junction about 300 yards south of the last farm buildings turn left on the well maintained road. After Maxham’s Cottage you are on Maxham’s Green Road which soon comes to the junction with Woodcroft Road.

At this point you are only a quarter of a mile from the east coast main line and, according to the OS map, Woodcroft Castle is just here, although I don’t think there is much left of it today.

Walk south on Woodcroft Road for a kilometre until you reach a right angle bend to the left at Pellett Hall. Here you turn right onto the bridleway which ultimately leads to Woodcroft Lodge. I wouldn’t normally suggest a walk which includes a whole kilometre on the road but no cars passed me on this day; hardly surprising as this small country lane only links Marholm and Etton and it is bisected by the east coast

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TOP STAT

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©CROWN COPYRIGHT 2015 ORDNANCE SURVEY. MEDIA 055/15

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ttage where The thatched co s born was John Clare wa st John Clare Tru bought by the 2007 the Trust in 2005. In May of funding from gained £1.27m ttery Fund. the Heritage Lo

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➛ mainline halfway. This makes one of the more peaceful country lanes you are likely to encounter in this area.

After a short distance on the bridleway just after the striking dead tree follow the path as it branches south and around Hayes Wood. Keep going until you come to the clearly marked right turn across a field boundary towards Simon’s Wood. From here keep the woods tightly to your left as you keep going and eventually you will come to the northern edge of Oxey Wood. Keep

going until you come to a farm track. At this point you have walked almost all of the way around Woodcroft Lodge in the middle and you are very close to College Cottages over to the right. But turn left on to the farm track and you quickly come to Heath Road. Turn left here and then pick up the footpath again across the southern edge of Rice Wood.

Take the right turn at the end of the wood and you will soon be back in Helpston. From here it’s a very short walk back to the Blue Bell.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION Where to park On Woodgate outside Clare Cottage or even in the Blue Bell car park if you are popping in for some refreshments.

Distance and time Five and a quarter mile/two hours Highlights Surprisingly undulating around Woodcro Lodge with some picturesque woodland. Clare Cottage and the Blue Bell. A really good stretch almost completely uninterrupted by stiles.

Lowlights None that were obvious to me. Might be a bit bleak on a cold day with an east wind, but where isn’t?

Refreshments The Blue Bell is your start point and rather obvious target.

Difficulty rating Three paws. It’s a long way but easy underfoot and very few obstacles.

The pooch perspective No livestock in sight when I did this walk but not much fresh water either.

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22/10/2015 17:10

Feature /// Sportsman's Dinner

The Fox Inn, Hallaton Will and Wendy take on some big portions at this classic country pub Will It’s only two miles south of the A47 but it feels like we are in proper countryside here.

Maybe that’s because those couple of miles are a bit of a rollercoaster in this hilly southern part of the county – and you can’t get much more Leicestershire than a fox so it’s a fitting name for the pub.

Wendy I hadn’t realised Hallaton was so close to the A47 either. In fact I’m not sure I’ve ever been here before. But the well-lit exterior of the pub is a welcome sight on a dark winter’s night and judging on how busy the car park is there must be quite a few people in.

Will What an atmosphere. There’s a large gang of the younger generation all enjoying a pint or two in the bar – in fact they remind me of the cricket team on a Sunday night when we retreat to the pub for that post-match analysis. I would be tempted to stop at the bar for a quick drink before dinner if I wasn’t quite so hungry so I’m glad we were ushered to our table in the corner.

Wendy You wonder why I’m not thrilled by the invitation to come down for a drink on a Sunday night in the summer? It’s bad enough that it takes you seven hours to play the game but then you go and talk about it for another three hours. It’s so

boring it makes Countryfile and Antiques Roadshow seem like a double bill of Bond.

Anyway, never mind that – I’m starving.

Will The international burger menu is a fun concept so it was good of the boss to suggest we try one as a starter, and this Italian version (£9.25 for the main course option) is certainly a well cooked burger served in a decent floury bun. It’s not been over-cooked so has kept all the flavour and juiciness. Topped with mozzarella, basil pesto and chargrilled pepper it was very tasty and has taken some of the edge off my hunger but I did play squash today so I have an appetite tonight.

Wendy When don’t you have an appetite? And I really like the international burger menu too – it’s creative and fun and demonstrates a willingness to do something different. That said my brie wedge starter (£4.95) was a huge portion but very tasty too, with a sweet chilli dressing. For that price it’s very good value.

Will Yes, it is god value and as a regular Oakham Ales consumer I am very pleased with this pint of JHB. In fact it might make it into my top five JHB establishments. But returning to the food, it wasn’t hard for me to choose the 8oz ribeye steak

(£16.50) with stilton sauce (£2.75) and giant chips.

The steak was recommended and it was excellent, as was the stilton sauce – properly cheesy. I managed to finish the chips but I declare myself full now. Oh go on then I will have one of your chips too…

Wendy You are welcome. The hunter’s chicken (£10.75) was chicken breast with bacon and cheese and glazed with a homemade barbecue sauce, with chips, salad and coleslaw. Apart from being very tender chicken, good bacon and generally very enjoyable it was another enormous serving so there was no way I was going to eat all those monster chips too…

Will Well you have been hitting the gym pretty hard recently and I do my fair share of exercise so I think we are allowed a slap up meal every now and again. And I think it’s fair to say anyone who visits the Fox will get just that – a slap up meal in a busy but relaxed atmosphere and all served by an efficient and friendly team.

The Fox Inn 30 North End, Hallaton, Market Harborough LE16 8UJ. 01858 555278

/// N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5

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22/10/2015 17:11

Feature /// School sports

Stamford add to winning streak Stamford School First XV produced a great all round performance to pick up their third win on the bounce in a dominant 35-0 victory against Uppingham.

An entertaining contest saw the ball move quickly from one end of the park to the other. Stamford gained some ascendancy in the early periods, holding onto the ball for three to four phases. Evison and Sidwell at half backs controlled the game well and after a strong carry from Ed Bateman, Henry Mawhood finished the move.

Five minutes later, after holding out an Uppingham counter attack, it was winger Smithson and centre Davidson that fronted the next attack, before skipper Henry Wills was able to shoot down the line for the second.

Troughton and Coolum were carrying strongly around the fringes before a superb line from Callum Corbett and a gem of a pass from Sidwell saw the centre dive under the sticks.

Stamford’s Corbett and Davidson were strong in the centres and managed to hold out on two dangerous occasions as the visitors started the second half brightly.

However, resistance was broken 15 minutes into the half when Mawhood broke through the line and rounded the full back to score.

Minutes later Ed Bateman ran through a similar gap on the 10m line and to the delight of the crowd, galloped all the way to the line to register his maiden try for the First XV. Sam Evison converted the try to make it 5 from 5 and 35-0.

Coach David Laventure said: “The squad has suffered enormously with injury but the lads have shown immense character as the season has progressed. Uppingham are always a well coached and dangerous outfit and for our boys to come away with a performance like that is credit to all their hard work on the training pitch.”

Tough start for Teddy on global karting stage Fourteen-year-old Rutland kart racer Teddy Wilson finished in 17th place in his first CIK-FIA Karting World Championship recently.

Held at La Conca in Southern Italy, his KF-Junior (KFJ) category was the most hotly contested race of the season with 102 driver entries from around the world.

“I was extremely disappointed with 17th in the final. The qualifying and heats didn’t go as planned, putting me out of contention. I was really hoping for a top five finish,” said Teddy.

Racing with Italian team Strakka Bhai Tech, Teddy’s qualification lap was not as fast as he’d hoped when he got held up in traffic during the session. He qualified a disappointing 43rd overall which resulted in fifteenth place on the grid for all of his five heats. Teddy drove strongly in all of the incident-packed races gaining places each time to earn him 28th place on the grid for the Final.

With no new tyres available to use in the final, a slightly disadvantaged but undeterred Teddy made the best of his set-up and situation. Another consistently strong performance saw him move up through the field, finishing in 17th position in his first world championship.

Girls selected for elite hockey training Charlie Crombie (Year 12) and Maeve Macdonald (Year 11) have been selected for the prestigious High Performance Assessment Camp at Lilleshall National Sports Centre, which takes place annually in the autumn to prepare players for the hockey at the highest level.

The girls, from Stamford School, were selected from the Junior Regional Performance Centre tier one tournaments, which took place at Beeston Hockey Club in September. Both had already progressed through Junior Development Centres and Junior Academy Centres prior to that.

These achievements highlight the headway SHS students are currently making in hockey.

Sophie Skelton (Year 11) has also demonstrated encouraging progress this year and will be looking to build upon that next year on the England Single System, along with Georgie Richardson who represented the U15 category in her tier one tournament. /// N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5 5 7

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Feature /// School sport

Adventure tales Students from Oakham School faced a series of adventurous DofE and CCF challenges during Service Weekend. Held twice a year, the weekend provides an opportunity for students to get out of their comfort zone, discovering more about themselves and the world around them.

Pupils working towards their Bronze, Silver and Gold DofE awards set off on their practice expeditions in various locations around the country, from the Snowdonia to the Solent!

Pupils prepared for the expeditions themselves, and had to carry all of their equipment and supplies with them over the course of the challenge.

Gold walkers in the Peak District covered a good distance, as well as seeing the spectacular sights of Mam Tor, Kinder Scout, High Peak and Ladybower Reservoir, to name a few.

Meanwhile, bronze cyclists travelled to Thetford, Norfolk, for their first ever expedition.

Meanwhile, Fifth Form CCF recruits ventured to North Wales to be introduced to the fun of adventure training.

The cadets arrived on Friday evening at Capel Curig Training Camp in the heart of Snowdonia. On Saturday, half the group headed out for Tryfan – the only mountain in Snowdonia that you can’t climb without scrambling. The groups headed pretty much straight up the north face, summiting just after

Hayden wins triathlon gold A triathlete from Oakham School was part of the Gold winning East Midlands team at the Inter-Regional Championships (GB National Finals TS3 for 13-14 year-olds) held at Mallory Park.

Hayden Greaves also placed an impressive seventh at this national event – placing him as one of the top triathletes for his age group in the country.

Competing against 12 other regions from across Great Britain, Hayden was one of three athletes representing the East Midlands TS3 male team, having won his place after strong performances in the qualifying rounds.

“It was my goal to just qualify for the event,” says Hayden “so I was really pleased to have come in first for the region as well being ranked 7th in GB for my age group.”

lunch, having negotiated some tricky sections of scrambling on the way up. The other half headed off to Llyn Padarn near Llanberis to open boat canoe and also to hone their climbing skills nearby at Fachwen.

On Sunday, the groups swapped over so the cadets experienced all the activities. All the cadets found themselves outside of their comfort zone at some stage, but they returned knowing a little more about themselves.

Hockey stars of the future Nine talented hockey players from Oakham School have been identified as some of the top players in the region after being selected for the Junior Regional Performance Centre (JRPC) Tier 2 activity.

Additionally, Lucas Ward has been picked for the U23 GB Development squad, a squad that has been picked in preparation for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

Alice Huddlestone, Maddie Pearce, Abi Rawlins, Amy Schanschieff, Finn Milbank Ali Eatch, Bryn Davies, Jess Barrett-Drylie and Tom Schanschieff all performed impressively at the JRPC Tier 1 competition in September, which led to their progression to the next stage. They will now either be entered into the Futures Cup competition (for U16 and U18) or attend the three-day High Performance Assessment Camp for (U15 and U17).

Brooke stages cross-country Brooke Priory held its first equestrian crosscountry event at Illston on the Hill. Ned Hercock and Tess Cunliffe took first place, Eliza Culloty and Molly Turcan came second, Molly and Hettie Turcan third and, by a whisker, Xanthe Anstee-Marriott (pictured) and Olivia Hunnisett were fourth.

/// N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5 5 9

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23/10/2015 15:30

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

Rugby

Stamford stamp their mark on league

BY JEREMY BESWICK

I

n spite of a blip, of which more later, Stamford Town’s run of fine form looks set to continue. Following victories in their first two fixtures of the season they hosted a Coalville side that had finished second in the league last campaign and to whom they had lost both home and away. It would therefore be a match to indicate how far they’ve progressed, one they would face with some notable absentees from the side including captain Austin Schwarz and, as it turned out, in which they would have to overcome the blow of conceding an early try.

First team coach Matt Albinson takes up the story from there...

“What followed was a 30-minute period of electric attack from backs and forwards alike.

The ball was moved with ease and accuracy and runners cut threatening angles with pace and commitment. Stamford soon moved into the lead with three quick scores in succession.

Rees Burns scored the first following a strong outside break from Taylor. The second try came quickly after following a well worked

driving maul which left the Coalville pack stunned.

“Four more first-half tries from O’Connor, Ramsden, Park and Taylor saw the bonus point secured and a half time score line of 36 points to 12.”

They were to go on to score three more tries in the second period, Burns with two of them to complete his hat-trick, and to win handsomely by 51 to 17. As Albinson put it “What a difference a year makes.”

Rugby is a great leveller however, and so we come to that blip. Dronfield were the opposition and, in spite of town being the first to score with a driven try from a line out, a combination of too many penalties conceded and wastefulness of possession – of which they had much the greater share – meant they went down to a narrow and chastening defeat 17-18. “A debacle,” was Albinson’s summation but came out fighting with the prediction that Mansfield, their next opponents, would feel town’s frustration.

The match was a clash of styles with

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Mansfield’s directness in contrast to Stamford’s more open approach to the game.

First blood went to Stamford, John O’Shea going over in the corner, but the unlucky Gareth Ramsden had been cover tackled in the build up and had to leave the field with what transpired to be a broken and dislocated ankle.

Undaunted, Town went on to add another two tries through Steve Taylor and Ralph Offer to lead 17-0 at the break and the second period saw them dominate until relaxing a little when the match was well and truly out of Mansfield’s reach for a final score of 31-12.

Albinson said afterwards: “The lads have shown real character today. I have been very critical of the way we played two weeks ago and at times maybe I could have tempered my disapproval, but to see the boys come out today and defend the way they did, creating turnover after turnover was heartening.

“We have worked hard on the training park to ensure the boys are fit and ready to go each week and we will not waiver moving

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6 0 NOV E M BE R 2015 ///

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23/10/2015 16:07

Tigers talk

forwards. It has been a pleasure to watch the boys play today.”

Oakham are building for the future with a talented but young and inexperienced side and, perhaps unsurprisingly, have had a more testing time of it over in the southern half of the division, losing their first three. The second, at home to local rivals Melton Mowbray, will have hurt most, not least because it saw the return of Mark Matthews in opposition colours. For so long Matthews’ accurate kicking had been a priceless asset to Oakham and it will be one which they will sorely miss.

However, spirits will have lifted following a notable victory away to Vipers. In spite of an unfortunate bounce which allowed Vipers to score the first try, good work from Callum Crellin and George Reid got Oakham back

TIGERS IMAGES

As the World Cup – disappointing for England but a wonderful tournament nonetheless – fades in the memory, rugby fans’ thoughts will return to the Aviva Premiership and the teams they support.

For the Tigers, the work is already under way and the new season is in full swing. Boss Richard Cockerill (pictured) was pleased with their start, a hard fought 28-16 victory at London Irish. He said: “It was good performance. The Madejski Stadium’s not the easiest place to go and any points away from home are good points. It was good to see the new players integrating so well.”

One of those new faces was Aussie Peter Betham, who scored a fine individual try, but most of the plaudits will go to 22-year-old Tommy Bell who showed great composure and kept his nerve to kick 23 of their points.

“All of our young lads are growing and gaining belief – in some areas we’ve deliberately not recruited because of the quality we know we have coming up,” Cockerill said. Tigers were without their experienced world cup trio of Dan Cole, Tom Youngs and Ben Youngs for this match.

“We’re managing their return with not only the short term in mind but also what the situation will be in six to eight weeks’ time.” said Cockerill. “The World Cup means this is a truncated season with a tight fixture list and a competitive fixture every weekend, so we need to be conscious of keeping our international players fresh, tempting though it is to put them straight out on to the field.”

The coming season holds a lot of promise for Tigers supporters, with a more expansive style of play promised following the recruitment of Kiwi Aaron Mauger to Cockerill’s coaching staff. They’ve even widened the pitch at Welford Road to suit.

“We’ll have a new way of playing this season,” continued Cockers. “Globally, the game is getting faster and more open as we saw in the World Cup. We’re going to persevere with a new approach, play all-round rugby and grow our game.”

This will be music in the ears to most of their loyal fan base who, while admiring the resolution of their forward play, might yearn for a little more entertainment value.

“We have to have the attitude that we’ll take more risks. Run from deep and play with width” he continued, “and our decision making will be even more crucial. We’ll make mistakes, but we can’t let that make us go back to the old way of playing.”

into the game and Will Armstrong went over for the equalising try to make it 8-8 at half time.

The second half saw Crellin make good yardage in possession and Rhys Grieve drive over, as did Armstrong once more and Tom Burton to put Oakham almost out of sight at 25-8. Vipers rallied at the end to pull things back to within five points for a bonus point but it was too little, too late.

Stoneygate also played Vipers, albeit the 2nds, in their first home match of the season in what was a closely fought match. Stoneygate took the advantage in the first half with tries from inside centre Luke Sturgess and full-back Ben Aspell before Vipers themselves went over to make it 14-7 at half time, and then did so again early in the second half.

In the end little other than a penalty for

Gate and a missed conversion from Vipers separated the side as Gate won 17-12. Captain Cillian Brugha summed up: “The Stoneygate front-row played out of their skins and battled well above their weight for the whole 80 minutes. Also the whole team’s defensive effort in the final 15 minutes was superb across the whole pitch.”

A more comfortable victory came at Leicester Forest who, interestingly, had soundly thrashed them last season. Jack Storry playing outside centre picked up a hat trick and Matt Boyce bagged two as they cruised home 37-14.

Brugha’s view was “this was a very strong performance in all areas of the field and all 18 Stoneygate squad members on the day played their part.”

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Roundup

Football

All change at the Daniels as Staff leaves the club

BY DEAN CORNISH

R

eading back through my last Active report on Stamford AFC’s season, I mentioned that this season would likely continue to be a ‘rocky road’. Since then, David Staff has left the club ‘by mutual decision’, a new manager has arrived and more players seem to have left the club than the number of goals Stamford have conceded this season. Well, not quite that many, but you know what I mean.

David Staff’s three-year tenure finally came to an end on September 22 following a 7-1 ‘Hydeing’ away at Hyde United. No-one would question Staff’s loyalty to the club, his passion and his desire to turn around Stamford’s fortunes, but ultimately it’s a results business and the board were therefore correct in bringing his leadership to a close.

In fairness to ‘Staffy’, he was part of Wayne Hatswell’s management team that brought promotion to Stamford, and he then himself managed to keep the Daniels in the Premier Division for the last two seasons (yes, ok, by

one goal last season), so his appointment was certainly not a disaster. If the club were to have any hope of staying in the Premier Division this year, changes were needed.

The board acted quickly, and brought in Andrew ‘Stan’ Wilson who had previously managed Harborough Town and also been involved with Corby and Histon. In some ways, it’s a risky appointment with the new man not having direct experience in this league, and potentially not knowing enough local players who could make a difference. In his first game in charge, the Daniels travelled to lowly Coleshill Town in the second qualifying round of the FA Cup. It was a dream draw in many ways, with Coleshill two leagues below and therefore a good chance of progressing to the third qualifying round and just two games from the first round proper.

However, it didn’t quite turn out how the Daniels had dreamt it, with Wilson’s new men going down 2-0 and crashing out of the cup.

At least they could then concentrate on the league, as they say.

who we are

Since then, league results have remained poor, although there are signs of improvement. In Wilson’s first league game in charge, it was much the same as the old regime with 3-3 draw at home against Sutton Coldfield. That game ended with Ryan Robbins finally leaving the club; probably for the best after supposedly being at the centre of ‘poisonous’ cliques within the team. That said, his goals had been crucial in the last few years, and his presence will be missed. Another controversial departure soon followed with fans’ favourite and skipper, Richard Jones, leaving the club, also ultimately for Boston United. While Jones had always given everything at the heart of defence, it was obvious that he wasn’t going to feature in the new man’s side, and he felt he had to leave.

Wilson’s next two league games ended in 2-1 defeats (away at Colwyn and home to Workington), before a couple of improved performances saw a 1-1 draw with Ilkeston Town and a cracking 1-0 away win at Matlock Town. Sadly they then couldn’t follow that

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GEOFF ATTON

Right

Action from Stamford’s match against Halesowen

win up at home against Halesowen, losing 2-1, and then losing 1-0 away at Ashton. The side looked to be set up well though, and they’re conceding fewer goals. Potentially all that’s missing is another ‘20 goals a season’ striker...

In the UCL Division One, history was made when Blackstones and Oakham United faced each other in the league for the first time on October 24. Oakham returned to good form with a solid 2-0 home win. Overall though, Oakham had been short of form, with injuries mainly to blame, but they seem to be finding their early season form again.

Having drawn with Buckingham and Bugbrooke, lost to Rushden & Higham (2-0) and also taken a battering 5-0 away at Bourne, they got back to winning ways mid-way through October with a 2-1 win away at Northampton ON Chenecks. Oakham have now risen to third in the league, but I suspect a promotion push will be beyond them this term. Blackstones meanwhile are ninth in the division, with their results and performances far better than last season. One performance

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that will live long in the memory was a 13-1 win against St Neots Saints. In fairness, the opposition were in transition and had to bring in various teenagers to make up the numbers.

Good on them for at least fulfilling the fixture.

Phil Gadsby’s men followed that up with a 2-0 away win at Olney Town, before then losing 9-0 at home to big spenders and league favourites, Peterborough Sports. Stones then had successive 2-1 away wins, beating Lutterworth in the league and Bourne in the cup. After losing at home to Thrapston, and taking a hammering in the Cup at Holbeach, Stones could do with getting back to winning ways to keep their season on track.

In the Peterborough League Premier Division, Ketton are currently seventh after a period of mixed results. Under the temporary guidance of Andy Gray, the boys from Pit Lane have recently beaten Thorney (2-0 away) before then losing by the same scoreline at Pinchbeck United. They then got back to winning ways with a cracking 3-0 away win at Crowland Town which they then followed up

with a Will Bird-inspired 2-2 draw at home against Holbeach United reserves. They did have a sterling performance in late October though, winning 9-0 against lowly Fenmen, Leverington Sports. It’s been a poor period meanwhile for Uppingham Town, having lost six on the bounce which leaves them fourth from bottom with five points from 10 games.

In Division One, the Stamford Lions are riding high after their move to behind the Zeeco stadium. James Sheehan’s side have won 11 of their 12 league games and lead the division by eight points. They’re goal happy at the moment, beating fellow high flyers Oundle Town 5-0 and smashing 11 past Peterborough ICA Sports. Sheehan’s men also won the new Stamford derby, easing to a 2-0 win over Stamford Belvedere before following that up with a 3-2 win over Wittering. The Bels themselves have been in reasonable form, but remain near the bottom of the table. The stand out result for them was a 3-0 away win at Whittlesey. Bels should stay up this season, but it is likely to be a rough ride at times.

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22/10/2015 11:04

Roundup

Golf

Competitions update GREETHAM VALLEY The final game in the Martin Boughton Order of Merit took place recently. Third place was taken by Neil Sinclair (14) with a nett score of 70 in a round that included one birdie and eight pars; for his efforts Neil was cut to 13.

Second place, on countback, went to Dean Wilkinson (11) also with a nett 70; his round included a solid four over gross front nine and an equally solid back nine; as a result his handicap was cut to 10. The winner on the day, however, was Alan Bennett (nine) with a commendable 68. In a round that included one double bogey and two birdies consistent golf was the order of the day for Alan.

While the overall winner of the order of merit had been decided in the previous game in September with Ryan Tarrant, who turned professional at the start of the month, having taken an unassailable lead of 231 points, there was still the matter of allocating second and third places in the summer-long competition.

Prior to Saturday’s competition these places seemed to be between Tom Haynes, Graham Smith and Dave Bull with only 25 points separating the three. At the start of the day Tom Haynes, who is still a junior, was 19 points clear of Graham Smith. Graham scored

74 to finish in tenth place whilst Tom Haynes scored 79; however the declining points allocation for the lower positions meant that Graham was just unable to overhaul Tom who finished second overall with 163 points to Graham‘s 161.

The ladies played their mid-week stableford on the Lakes course in a big field with very close scoring; only two points separated the top five players and countback was the order of the day. In third place, on 33, was Jackie Friend,who beat Sheila Douty and Annie Mcculloch on the same score. Jackie finally won third place by virtue of a tidier back nine holes. In second place, Jane O’Donnell scored 34 but was pipped to the post by Angela Wheeler also on 34. Jane was in contention to the last but was finally undone over the last three holes to allow Angela to take the prize.

NORTH LUFFENHAM The last match of the season saw the seniors beat Priors Hall Golf Club 4 - 2 in what proved a very enjoyable fixture once again. Scores were: Bob Matthew/John Everitt won 7 & 6, George Smith/Peter Lemmon lost one down, Dave Grieve/Alan Barwell lost 5 & 4, Jim Ashworth/Geoff Clyde won 7 & 5, Don

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Lambert/Alan Cassapi won 3 & 2, John Nicholls/Alan Smith won 2 & 1.

The summer knock-out competitions have now finished, with the results as follows; In the gents’ singles Dave Crooks beat Jim Ashworth 2 & 1, but then Jim teamed up with Ken Houlden to beat Don Lambert and Bob Matthew in the Seniors doubles. Winning his second trophy, Ken Houlden beat Bob Matthew in the seniors singles. Finally, the gents doubles was won by Dave Purvis and John Everitt beating Gordon Knox and Michael Martin 2 & 1.

The October mid-week medal was won by Jim Ashworth with a net score of 70, playing off 14. Second place was taken by Graham Ball (off 15) on count back from Malcolm Hird (off 16), both golfers scoring a net 71.

In the Sunday medal, Richard Young (off 12) came out on top of division one with an impressive net 69, followed home by John Fursdon (off 9) with a net 71. Third place went to Gordon Knox (off 11) scoring 74.

Division two winner, Chris Durrant, scored a magnificent net 66, dropping his handicap by one to 18. Runner-up was returning member Bill Edwards, carding a net 71, playing off 22, with Dale Pettitt back in third with 72 (off 24).

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01780 762696 /// NOV E M BE R 2015

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Roundup

Equestrianism

Osberton attracts a quality field

BY JULIA DUNGWORTH

O

sberton Horse Trials is one of the last international events on the calendar for the year and what a spectacular event it has turned into. Osberton now hosts four different international classes: the Young Horse Championships, In-hand classes, Pony Club jumping and Gate Jumping.

They have also built up a good trade stand village around the two main arenas with gun dog displays, birds of prey, and of course the obligatory food area.

Poor Tamsyn Iveson recorded one of her best tests to date on her own Olympic Du Loir of just 46 penalties in the CCI1* and added a foot perfect clear round on the cross country, which was sure to finish them with a top 10 placing. But unfortunately Olympic sustained a small injury on the cross, which resulted in them not completing.

Kerry Varley had a better run in the CCI2* on Cariba 15, which was her first big run after having a break. She added just a few cross country time faults to her dressage to complete in the top half.

Willa Newton was the best of the locals to win the CICYH** on Caja 20, where the

combination led from start to finish and added nothing to their impressive dressage score of 44.5. That will be a really good combination to look out for in the future.

Burghley Pony Club’s early start paid off, where they finished second in the team jumping. The successful 70cm team members were Sienna de Gale, Anya Batty, Tabitha Leicester and Sophie Johnson.

Kelly Davies from Stamford achieved her lifetime dream of competing at CCI1* which she did very successfully at the Hartpury Three-Day event.

Kelly and her mare Rio Negra managed a good dressage, and a small error at the end of the cross country course added just 20 penalties, but she jumped an amazing clear round on the Sunday morning for her first completion.

However, poor Rio Negra suffered the same fate as Tamsyn Iverson’s Olympic and now sustained a small injury and that put an early end to their season.

Dawn Ross has had her first taste of the big time with a magnificent fifth place at the SEIB Search For A Star Working Hunter Final at HOYS on Magnum Van Overis Z.

Dawn is very excited and is going to now make it her goal to qualify and return next year, so she has already started her campaign by jumping Newcomers at shows.

The Belvoir Hunt ran one of the first team chases of the season at Garthorpe at the end of the summer; there were various classes through the lovely sunny day, which went on until it was nearly dark. There were lots of trade stands and as usual the bar was doing a roaring trade.

The going was absolutely perfect and as always, the fences were beautifully prepared.

Garthorpe has such a good reputation and the day attracted nearly 350 horses.

The big class of the day was the Intermediate. Again most teams I saw started as a four and finished as a three or less, although I did see one team with only one rider to cross the finish line!

The aptly named Relentless team were the winners with an unbeatable time of 5.10 minutes.

The slightly smaller Novice class was won

by Fox Grant Dot Com beating themselves into second place with their other team the Fox Grant Chasers.

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