The Beacon Magazine Issue 70 by The Beacon

HIGHLIGHTING LOCAL LUXURY

M A R /A P R | 7 0

LUXURY FASHION & BEAUTY

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CONTENTS | MARCH/APRIL 5

INTERVIEW 06

COVER STORY Idris Elba Read about his fascinating fashion collaboration

HEALTH, FITNESS & WELLBEING 12

Fitness Apps Jo Helcke investigates the technical world of activity trackers

FASHION & BEAUTY 16 22 24

COVER STORY Designer pieces to invest in

50 INTERIOR

Fashion expert Cleo picks out her super 7 Salon Success A closer look at the very stylish Mewies & Indy COVER STORY Pure Luxury Hayley Sparkes focuses on the best of the beauty market

GIFT GUIDE 27

COVER STORY Easter Treats & Gifts

SPECIAL 32 55 57

16 FASHION

18 DEVOL

COVER STORY Property Special Sheer

luxury for your home High Street Buzz Recent resurgence results in benefits for local estate agents Open To Influence Contemporary open plan living leads the way in kitchen design

HOME & GARDEN 60 67

Hanging Baskets Frances Dunham explains how to prepare amazing baskets & planters Lawn & Order Top tips for a luscious lawn from the experts at GreenThumb

06 INTERVIEW: IDRIS ELBA

FOOD & DRINK 68 73

Eggstacular Anisha Mistry shares some delicious recipes to showcase eggs Great Food & Drink Festival Prestwold Hall welcomes the event

MOTORS 74

ENTER TO

WIN!

A Class Unto Itself Andy Wright checks out the all new 7 series BMW

68 FOOD

NOTICEBOARD 84 86

Legally Blonde Hit musical comes to Curve OLCS Local school receives highest accolade & is rated excellent across the board

Cover Image courtesy of Superdry

14 JANE SHILTON BAG - CELLINI

84 THEATRE

DISCL AIMER : The publication of adver tisements does not imply any endorsement. The publishers cannot be held responsible for breach of copyright arising from publication of ar twork supplied. It is the adver tiser’s responsibility to ensure conformity with the Trades Description Act 1975, Business Adver tisements Disclosure Order 1977 and the Consumer Credit Act 1974. Reproduction in whole or in par t without permission is strictly prohibited. Whilst the publisher takes great care to be accurate, no liability will be accepted under any circumstances should any of the contents of this publication be incorrect. If accepted, ar ticles may be edited and shor tened at the Editor’s discretion and could be used on The Beacon website.

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02/03/2016 18:25

WELCOME

THEBEACONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

As is evident by the substantial publication in your hands, it certainly wouldn’t be a matter of understatement to say our newly adopted approach to being ‘bigger and better’ has now transpired in the literal sense! True to our word, and standing firm to these claims, we are super excited to bring you this very first A4 edition of the ‘bigger and better’ Beacon Magazine. Bigger and better naturally commands some seriously big-hitters when it comes to interviews, so especially for all you Luther lovers out there, this issue we’ve brought you the hugely talented Idris Elba. Whilst still very much in the mix of the rumour mill to succeed Daniel Craig as the next 007 (wouldn’t that be a treat!), our focus was on the actor’s more recent collaboration with one of the globe’s most diverse lifestyle brands, Superdry – so read this fascinating interview on pgs 6-8. Ever committed to highlighting luxury, we’ve gone all out in this edition’s fashion and beauty sections; so if ever there was a time to treat yourself and splash out on that Chanel handbag (because you deserve it!), or that indulgently expensive moisturiser (because you’re worth it!), then look no further than our resident style and beauty powerhouses Cleo Lacey & Hayley Sparkes (pgs 16-17 & 24-25). Luxury is also something many of us love to bring into our homes, and you definitely won’t be short of inspiration in this our annual ‘Property Special’. As spring approaches, now is the time to turn our attention to our gardens too, so get your bulbs and baskets at the ready now, and you will be blessed with a garden abundant with colourful blooms that will flower beautifully and bring joy to your outside space all through the summer.

follow us on issuu.com/thebeaconleic View our lastest issue and back catalogue! thebeaconmagazine | like us on facebook @thebeaconteam | follow us on twitter

Published by Greenshires Publishing 160-164 Barkby Road, Leicester, LE4 9LF

EDITOR'S PICK

But hold on, before the summer arrives, we’ve got Easter to look forward to and who doesn’t love a chocolate egg?! Our Easter Gift Guide (pgs 26-27) includes some of the most deliciously decadent Easter eggs that will have any hard-core chocoholic’s mouth watering. It’s not all sweet treats though, and just so we can feel a little more guilt-free, Anisha Mistry redresses the balance for us with a few healthier egg options, in her collection of savoury recipes. So there’s plenty to get your teeth into, as you sit back and enjoy the new look Beacon. We’d be delighted to know what you think of our mini make-over, so get in touch via Facebook, Twitter or drop us a line here at the office, we’d love to hear from you. Until next time…

EDITORIAL EDITOR Karen Dench t: 0116 2022 727 e: karend@thebeaconmagazine.co.uk

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DESIGN Hannah Calderbank t: 0116 2022 736 e: hannah.calderbank@greenshires.com

Organic Glam: Orange Blossom Eau de Parfum Only the finest and rarest extracts are expertly blended to create this beautifully unique scent

ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE Karen Wilbourn t: 0116 2022 729 e: karenw@thebeaconmagazine.co.uk

SALES EXECUTIVE Kim Wholton t: 0116 2022 732 e: kimw@thebeaconmagazine.co.uk

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| INTERVIEW

IDRIS ELBA

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HE IS ONE OF BRITAIN’S FAVOURITE ACTORS AND NOW IDRIS ELBA HAS TEAMED UP WITH FASHION GIANTS SUPERDRY TO LAUNCH HIS VERY OWN MEN’S CLOTHING RANGE. STEPHEN DOIG CAUGHT UP WITH HIM AT THE LAUNCH PARTY TO DISCUSS THE COLLABORATION AND THOSE SPECULATIVE BOND RUMOURS

t’s a question that hangs in the air with expectant and considerable potency, like a cologne that I’m hoping Idris Elba won’t wrinkle his nose at. The popping of champagne corks and the general chatter seem to stop dead. Would the actor, I venture - who is tipped to be on the cusp of landing the film star Holy Grail role of James Bond and who I’m talking to at the launch of his debut clothing range - ever consider designing a range of tuxedos, perhaps even ones that might look suitable for 007? Recently, bookmaker William Hill put Elba’s odds at 5/2, making him the favourite in the race that sees him competing with Henry Cavill and Damien Lewis as part of a rumour mill that started in earnest after leaked emails from Sony’s Amy Pascal recommended him as a frontrunner for the role. It’s perhaps the most charged, if somewhat sneakily roundabout, question of the day, but Elba deftly deflects it like a pro backhanding a tennis ball, with stealth and good humour. “Oh Jeeeeesus. Um…well…I mean…”, says Elba, as he cracks into a throaty laugh and plunges his head into hands, swiftly steering our conversation back to the matter at hand, which is talking about his Idris Elba + Superdry collection for the high street clothing store. “Look, there’s no ceiling to this collaboration at the moment; we’ll work on it in stages and see what works. I love suits and it makes sense to step into that territory, but at this point we’ll take it gradually. We’ll tailor the collections to what works”.

Photo credit – Reuter/The Interview People

It’s a testament to his professionalism and dedication to the project that he refers back to the range, which made its debut last week as one of the many strings on Elba’s bow.

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The actor, who rose to fame thanks to his role as detective John Luther in the eponymous BBC thriller, and as drug lord Stringer Bell in HBO’s The Wire, has a reputation as a polymath, balancing his work in film with ventures in music. Starring roles in Ridley Scott’s Prometheus and Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, where his portrayal as the South African president won him a Golden Globe Award as Best Actor, have helped cement Elba’s place as one of the UK’s biggest film talents, which has only served to add fuel to the fire that is the Great Bond Debate. Alongside his cinema work, Elba has also recorded guest performances on various albums, moonlighted as a DJ and even recorded a six-song EP back in 2010. “I’m a hybrid,” he says. “I’m part of the slash culture: actor-slash-directorslash-DJ and having a multi-layered creative output is important to me.” Which makes his foray into the world of fashion all the more fluid and credible. In the great – often weary - roll call of celebrity and fashion collaborations, where even the most banal reality TV star can tag their name to a collection

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| INTERVIEW

and call it their own, what’s striking about Elba’s involvement is the organic nature that saw him venture into this project with Superdry, the British high street success story founded in 2003 by two Cheltenhambased entrepreneurs. James Holder and Julian Dunkerton. “I’m not the kind of guy who will wear a pair of jeans I was sent and then endorse them, that’s just not me,” says Elba. “This collaboration’s come about in a very genuine way. I discovered them thanks to [stylist] Cheryl Conti and wore a coat designed as part of a Superdry collaboration with Timothy Everest for a commercial I filmed for Sky. I loved it and continued to wear it. So it evolved very naturally”. Elba’s affable nature and grounded sense of humour are striking; he greets the Superdry team with hearty backslapping and enthusiastic handshakes like they’re old friends, rather than people he began formally working with fairly recently. Launched on the eve of London Collections Men, the capital’s biannual menswear showcase, it’s clear that Elba is style literate: he’s one of GQ’s Best Dressed Men 2015 and is as comfortable spinning the decks in a Lyle & Scott polo shirt as he is commanding the red carpet in an impeccable Gucci suit. He is also, as he sips a Red Stripe beer and talks in that distinctive "Landan” drawl, animated in demonstrating how he wants his clothing to fit and feel, tugging at the cuff of his leather jacket to demonstrate its durability, fingering the stitching on the selvedge hem of his jeans.

“I know what a man wants to look like” “I love clothes. I’m 42 years old now and I wear clothes that I can be comfortable in, that will look good for a long time and that I can wear from set to a dinner party to a club. Functionality and a sense of durability were the key things for me.”

Photo credit – Reuter/The Interview People

That sense of stark uniformity wends its way into the collection in a series of narrow, slickly-cut black wool and biscuit-toned cotton trench coats with contrasting colours on the underside of the collar (“perfect for popping up and feeling a million dollars”). There are also solid, heavyweight leather biker jackets, sturdy outerwear in tech fabrics, discreet cashmere knitwear, inky navy pea coats, soft cotton hooded tops emblazed with the letters IE. Pared back and stripped down, the collection is focused on wellmade basics that make up a man’s everyday wardrobe. The project also appealed to Elba because of the happy harmony between himself and the brand: “We’re three British lads who’ve worked hard to get to where we are,” he says. So would he consider following fellow actor Antonio Banderas – who earlier this year revealed plans to study at Central Saint Martins college - into the formal, academic training of fashion design? “I’d love to step deeper into the world of design. I’d definitely consider it. What really interests me is the technology, how the things are made, what programmes help make the ideas a reality.”

Those principles acted as the founding tenets for his 250-piece strong collection for Superdry, which is the start of an ongoing range that will feature in the brand’s premium line, season after season. “I work incredibly hard, often involving 12-15-hour working days,” he says. “It’s a long time to be on set in one outfit, so creating something durable that can go the distance was very important.”

Later, he hosts a dinner to toast the range (“right you lot, let’s have a bloody drink, yeah?”) with LCM chairman and GQ editor Dylan Jones, boxer Anthony Joshua and model David Gandy. “Being able to showcase my own clothing as part of this is like a dream come true. I could never have imagined this; I honestly feel like I’ve won the lottery,” he says. “Look, I’m no fashion guru, but I think I know how to dress and I think I know what a man wants to look like. That’s all part of being an actor and choosing costumes, knowing how something will make your character look and feel. "The fact that I could actually influence how people dress is a dream.”

The actor’s upbringing in East London in the seventies formed the style of the collection, he says, thanks to regular sightings of Mods in the streets of his native Canning Town, with their angular coats, monochrome colour palettes and bold graphic patterns, as well as memories of his father wearing structured trench coats.

Credit: Stephen Doig / The Daily Telegraph / The Interview People

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| HEALTH, FITNESS & WELLBEING

WITH FITNESS APPS AND HEALTH GADGETS, SUCH AS FITBIT, MAPMYRUN, GARMIN, AND MYFITNESSPAL, ALL EXPLODING ONTO THE SCENE IN RECENT YEARS, JO HELCKE ASKS THE BURNING QUESTION, ‘DO FITNESS APPS REALLY MAKE YOU FITTER?’

he Apple Store is groaning under the virtual weight of these applications which promise to prod you into activity and act as ongoing, guilt-inducing reminders of every morsel of food you have consumed. Shops display their range of health gadgets in cabinets like precious jewels, gadgets that will monitor your every step, beat of the heart or moment of rest. Can you tell I’m not a fan?

I’ll come clean: I’m what one might call a technophobe. I’m not sure I can really blame my advanced years because I know many people who are my age or much older and who love a techy gadget or app. It’s just me and the way I am. Give me pencil and paper and give me a real, live human being to deal with any day please. Or alternatively I’ll use an app or wrist band fitness gadget on the following conditions: firstly, that someone else reads the instructions; secondly that it is set up for me ready to use; thirdly that it’s not me downloading and reading the results; and finally that said person conveys the information to me verbally in comprehensible, non-technical prose.

around for “re-set your password” messages, only to discover that when I re-set things the system didn’t like the new details, was enough to frustrate me and I abandoned ship! And I think that therein lies the problem for the many of us who find technology a challenge: the whole process of using these online systems can feel like a psychological Everest to climb. The principles of accountability, motivation, goal-setting and social support – which these apps and gadgets all include – are good but if they require much in the way of extra time and effort (on top of the energy already being expended on healthy eating/walking further/exercising harder) on the part of the user, then that in itself becomes a barrier. I am happy to note down what I eat. It is useful and almost certainly makes one far more aware of all the little extras that somehow sneak into our diets almost unconsciously. I can grab pen and paper in an instant but ask me to login (I have to remember username and password) then to try and recall how to get to the relevant page on the app, followed by an inability to recollect how exactly to log my food or physical activity and the likelihood is that I simply won’t do it.

A couple of years ago I did download and use a health and fitness app – MyFitnessPal. It was the one and only time in my life that I have knowingly gone to the Apple Store, searched for an app, downloaded it and then actually used it for a longish period of time. This was to track what I was eating, and I don’t just mean calories but the complete breakdown of macronutrients - carbohydrates, protein and fat. My daily eating was turned into percentages, pie charts and red warnings as I drew too close to this or that limit. Little messages popped up telling me what a good job I had done by eating some vitamin C-rich blueberries or some proteinheavy eggs – regular virtual pats on the back designed to encourage me. I was also meant to link up with other users via the social network but I have to confess that the thought of telling the world that I was inputting every gram of food I was consuming into an app wasn’t very appealing. It was a bit like the thought of running into a crowded street waving around my arms saying “Hey everyone, I’m trying to lose all this podge I’m carrying around my middle!”

Not surprisingly there has recently been a good deal of academic research into the use of fitness apps, gadgets and Exergames (video games that require physical activity). Research suggests that apps only include a minority of behavioural strategies that are used in evidence-based weight loss programmes and that whilst apps can certainly assist people in attaining their goals, they cannot replace human intervention. Interestingly, this backs up anecdotal evidence that I collected when I asked people on Facebook if they used health and fitness apps and whether or not they found them useful. Many people did indeed put them to good use but in conjunction with, for example, a running club or at the behest of their personal trainer. Despite the limitations highlighted by research, academics still feel that these apps have the potential to, for example, encourage otherwise sedentary teenagers to get active by offering a popular alternative to conventional sport. At a time when the NHS has limited resources, dietary and fitness apps would seem, therefore, to have a part to play.

A few days ago in the interests of research for this article, I had another go at downloading a couple of widely used health and fitness apps but I fell at the first hurdle which involved confirming my email address (I couldn’t remember which of my many email addresses I had used) and entering a password (I invariably forget my supposedly memorable passwords). Logging into my various email accounts, hunting

I, on the other hand, have a hybrid system that I use: have you heard of The Daily Greatness Training Journal? That’s what I use and it’s very pink, very cute, can be held in my hands and requires a pen to fill it in! It links to a website with all the kind of motivational stuff and social networking that you’ll find on an app or fitness gadget but guess what? I’ve never bothered with that! Good ol’ fashioned journaling every day…

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| 13 | 02/03/2016 16:57

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highlighting local luxury

| 15 | 03/03/2016 12:46

| FASHION & BEAUTY

WITH GLOBAL DEMAND FOR LUXURY GOODS RAPIDLY GROWING, ONE THING IS CERTAIN, THE PHYSICAL APPEAL OF DESIGNER ITEMS IS UNDENIABLE. THE LEATHER SOFTER, THE FIT MORE COMFORTABLE, THE FEEL MORE OPULENT – AND A LAVISH PRICE TAG TO MATCH. SOME THINGS HOWEVER, ARE DEFINITELY WORTH IT WRITES CLEO LACEY

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esigner items that cost thousands of pounds are not really in many people’s budgets these days; or you know, ever. Although, in my opinion there are certain items that make sense to save up for and keep in your wardrobe forever. Think Chanel 2.55 quilted bag or the classic Burberry trench coat. I’ve rounded up my favourite picks of designer pieces to invest in - and these will never go out of style, so you’ll have no regrets about shelling out that amount of money!

Place your money in well-established, high end iconic brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes, and you can’t really go wrong. There are certain styles with the most resale value.

The best return on investment definitely comes from accessories.

You need to be careful with shoes. The nature of the wear and tear we put on shoes means that they're not likely to recoup as much unless you've been incredibly careful or barely worn them. Your best bet is pretty much exactly

Credit: Burberry

So is there such a thing as a so called “Investment” piece - and can you actually get back what you paid for it? Here are some tips and tricks for what to invest in:

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who you'd suspect, the red sole! This is always a winner for resale value. Louboutins consistently command the highest return on investment in the shoe category.

times of recession and economic difficulty. The Birkin bag is the safest and least volatile investment market. Show that to your husband!

Keep EVERYTHING. The more of the original packaging and receipt you have when you resell, the more it sells for. For instance, keeping your dust bags for shoes and handbags increases the value. People want to make sure everything is there so if someone makes a purchase it feels like they are buying it new.

The secondary market for Birkin’s is at an all-time high, with many women who have been turned away from Hermes or are unwilling to wait years for a Birkin are instead opting to buy from trusted re-sellers. If you think Birkin bags are pricey and impossible to get now, Baghunter are suspecting the value of the Hermes Birkin will double in the next ten years!

Care is KEY. This is something I am obviously nuts about as you may well have gathered from previous articles; my wardrobe is like a shrine to my beloved pieces. I teach my clients how to care for their wardrobe, it’s a lot about organisation and storage skills. For shoes, this means making sure they don't get scuffed, keeping them in their boxes, stuffing the toes with tissue paper and protecting the soles (especially for Louboutins). Handbags can have slight wear and tear on the bottom, so it's worth taking them to specialist places like the Handbag Spa in Harrogate to look after them and keep them in as good a condition as possible, especially if it's leather.

If the bag is still way out of your reach, then opt for the Hermes classic “H” buckle belt. I have had my black and tan reversible one for over eight years, I wear it so much and could sell it now for pretty much what I paid for it, even in a used condition.

With all this in mind these are my top seven Designer pieces that every woman should or at least covet to own: The Burberry Trench Coat will last for years. The camel colour will never go out of style, it goes with all colour palettes such as black, navy, white, grey, and looks great on so many skin tones. It really will be in your wardrobe for years. The amount I find in client’s closets, that they’ve literally had for years, and I mean years, is astonishing! You can also try discounted outlets such as Bicester Village to try and get a saving. Louis Vuitton Classic Monogram won’t go out of fashion quickly. Go for an iconic style such as the Speedy or Neverfull as they are the perfect tote for work, travel or daily use. Some of my clients use the Neverfull as a nappy or beach bag as they are generally very hard wearing canvas bags. Louis Vuitton luggage is also a fail safe investment and an incredibly chic and stylish way to travel with vintage pieces selling for more than brand new ones. A Hermes Scarf, Birkin Bag or Belt are three classical investments any dream wardrobe would definitely contain. If you like the sound of a silk Hermes scarf, I’d personally go for one in their signature orange colour, as this will add a little pop of luxury to any outfit. With regards to the Birkin bag, yes they are a fortune but luxury online retail platform Baghunter claims that if you are deciding between investing in gold, the S&P 500 (stocks) or a Birkin, go with the Birkin bag! They compared the three investments returns over the past 35 years and found that the value of the Hermes Birkin has increased in value more than 500% during that time. Unlike stocks and shares, which might have good and bad years, the value of the Birkin handbag has never decreased, even during

0781 299 1819

cleolacey@demi-couture.co.uk

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Black Quilted Chanel bag is the epitome of luxury, the classic black or cream will go with almost everything in your wardrobe. Like the Birkin, Chanel bags only ever increase in value and if you take good care of them you’ll be able to resell them, (not that you’d ever really want to), for a good price. I would personally go for the classic quilted 2.55 with a gold chain. Breakfast at Tiffany’s eat your heart out! Christian Louboutins; the red sole is the immediate giveaway that these shoes are a force to be reckoned with. There are so many options within Louboutin to choose from, but since the black or nude pump will get the most lifetime wear, you know those should be your first purchase (then watch the collection grow!). I’d suggest trying on as many styles as you can, as sizing and comfort can vary massively depending upon which ones you go for. A Roland Mouret or Victoria Beckham Dress will make you feel amazing. There are many imitations but there is nothing truly like a beautifully tailored dress. Picking a colour and style that is more neutral and timeless will give you the most wear for your money. Roland Mouret was always my ‘go to’ for clients desiring something super special, however the very talented Victoria Beckham is giving them a run for their money and creating some exceptionally beautiful, timeless and classical investment dresses you will have in your wardrobe for years. Cartier Love Bangle is totally on my wish list. It doesn’t get much better than a red and gold box! It is a timeless tribute to a passionate romance (it is fastened only by your love using a special screwdriver) designed to be worn for the rest of your life. It will age gracefully with you and become an air loom for future generations. If you so happen to part with the man with the screwdriver, then you can still sell them at extremely good prices! So what do you think? Would you add any other pieces to the list? Or take any off? I’d love to hear from you, tweet me @cleolacey. Your Fairy Clothes Mother xx

demi-couture.co.uk

@cleolacey

/Demi-Couture

highlighting local luxury

| 17 | 02/03/2016 17:05

| FASHION & BEAUTY

WE SPOKE TO THE PPCO’S REBECCA JONES, ABOUT THEIR BEAUTIFULLY HANDCRAFTED GARMENTS PRODUCED RIGHT IN THE HEART OF LEICESTERSHIRE

THE PINK PANTALOON Co.

he Pink Pantaloon Company was actually created by accident, we were designing some blast proof underwear for protection of a chaps vulnerable bits from IED’s and got distracted, veering off on some creative and fanciful trip. The PPco was the result and what a lot of fun it is.

We are proud to say that all of our products are handmade at our Cotes Mill home, a stunning historic water mill based in the heart of Leicestershire and the home of our parent company deVOL Kitchens. Our lovely seamstresses are based here in the Mill house and when they’re not making ﬂatulence ﬁltering underwear for our sister company Shreddies, they are more than happy to make our Pink Pantaloons! Shreddies have been trading for eight years in the underwear industry and therefore Paul O’Leary, the owner, knows a thing or two about creating the perfect pair of pants! Kitchens and knickers may not be the most obvious business pairing, but it really does work. The Pink Pantaloon Company began with the men’s ‘George Pantaloon’, a timeless piece and a wardrobe staple for the stylish man. From there we have added two more core men’s pieces and an utterly cool mix of ladies styles, from simple and sexy French knickers, to a very unique playsuit and a lovely little silky bralet. We have come up with a collection of beautiful styles, all inspired by timeless classics, all totally unique and all handmade from one roll of the most beautiful dusky pink silk. Our designs are simple and

modern with a slight edge, made to love and made to last, we just know they'll stand the test of time. Full of beautiful kitchens and a whole range of lovely antiques and gifts, Cotes Mill has been the perfect backdrop for all of our Pink Pantaloon photoshoots. With twelve acres of land and the most beautiful building in Leicestershire at our feet we’d be silly to not take advantage. Our shoots have taken place in and around the grounds and even on our 200m stretch of the River Soar using our own boats. The models from our shoots also work for deVOL, Zoë our lovely PR Manager has been modelling for PPco since the very ﬁrst shoot along with George, and more recently she has also been photographed with Huw, our new Graphic Designer. Things are moving pretty quickly for PPco and our most recent venture is launching our brand new Vintage collection. We have handpicked items from Chanel, Balenciaga and Diane Von Furstenberg to name a few, and we are dedicated to bringing new life to these forgotten garments until not a stitch is out of place. Although we love their nostalgic charm, sometimes they can look a little worn out, so we’ve taken it upon ourselves to make them wearable and completely lovable all over again. Made for beautiful people who want to be carefree, wear cool but classic clothes, appreciate timeless fabrics and vintage styles will fall in love with The Pink Pantaloon Company.

[ABOVE] George is wearing 'The George Pantaloon' priced at £130

Credit: The Pink Pantaloon Co.

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[LEFT] Matthew is wearing 'The George Pantaloon' priced at £130 & Zoë is wearing 'The Zoe Playsuit' priced at £150

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Credit: The Pink Pantaloon Co.

The Pink Pantaloon Company, Cotes Mill, Nottingham Road, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE12 5TL | www.pinkpantaloon.com

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92604

what a way to

ing Celebrat S 5 YEAR

give flowers with pure flower and plant essences for your Valentine

with pure flower and essences forEssences your Valentine With Botanical Therapy, Pureplant Flower & Plant for your Hair Bring out the full beauty of your hair. Get luminous, healthy-looking hair with Botanical Therapy salon treatments. Our customised THIS PIECE OF COLLATERAL EXPIRES: 12/15/19 Aveda treatments penetrate strands for intense moisture or repair. Botanical Therapy treatments restore balance to the ecosystem of your hair & scalp – leaving hair looking healthier & shinier & feeling soft & silky. THIS PIECE OF COLLATERAL EXPIRES: 12/15/19 We have been open for 5 years in April! We can’t believe it to be honest, where does the time go? We would like to thank everyone who has supported us and helped us to grow as a business.

To mark this celebration we will be giving away a complimentary conditioning treatment to all of our existing and new clients. *The complimentary treatment will be an extra 15 minutes onto you appointment time, so don’t forget to mention this offer when booking throughout April, to allow the extra time.

Elan Hair Design, 17 Woodgate, Rothley, Leicestershire, LE7 7LL t:0116 2374579 e:enquiries@elan-hair.co.uk www.elan-hair.co.uk Follow us on facebook & Twitter Elan Hair Design of Rothley Ltd

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| 21 | 02/03/2016 10:17 16:48 26/02/2016

| FASHION & BEAUTY

SALON OWNER INDY BURMI HAS BEEN OUR RESIDENT HAIR COLUMNIST FOR MANY YEARS HERE AT THE BEACON, SHARING HIS VAST KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERTISE ON THE LATEST LOOKS, TRENDS AND TECHNIQUES. THIS ISSUE, WE TAKE A CLOSER LOOK AT THE SUCCESS AND DRIVE BEHIND THE AREA’S LEADING SALON OF CHOICE

Welcome to

MEWIES & INDY Mewies & Indy is a stylish, boutique, prestigious salon offering unparalleled creative work and superlative art. Providing a wide range of services from a cut & finish to mask treatments, rituals and chemical blow-drys, their remarkable attention to detail and understanding of what works for you, means you are guaranteed exceptional results with an outstanding service every time. Mewies & Indy (est. 2013), brings together a unique contrast of Shoreditch style and countryside class. The picturesque and exclusive village of Quorn, Charnwood, offers the perfect setting for this cutting edge and stylish establishment. Boasting over 30 years of combined experience (including national awards for their ingenuity and unwavering attention to salon style and client satisfaction), owners, Dan and Indy, are the creative drive behind this boutique salon. They have proven to be a successful combination, having first worked together setting up and running the now well established ‘Indy Hair’, based in ‘The Lanes’ of Leicester. Dan and Indy understand and appreciate the importance of their clientele and fully recognise their customers are the ultimate drive behind their continued success. Their creative relationship is the foundation of ‘Mewies & Indy’ and is reflected in a long standing, loyal client base and carefully recruited stylists. Stylists who are chosen because they offer the very best in creativity, emulating Dan and Indy’s dedication to providing the highest standard of client care, whilst mastering classic styles and embracing cutting edge design – all provided within a welcoming, comfortable and stylish boutique salon. The whole team undergoes the same Mewies & Indy training, which enables them to maintain the topmost level of styling, creativity and care.

“Without our amazing team of incomparable, trendy and accomplished stylists we would not be who or what we are today, 'the area’s leading salon choice' and we are not only blessed to have them on board, but also extremely grateful.” Indy Burmi

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& INDY

stigious salon offering and superlative art. We services from a Cut & , rituals and chemical Mewies & Indy are an ambassador salon for Kerastase, offering the attention to detail and complete full range from treatments to retail, along with all rituals rks for you means that exceptional resultsthat in are available. Indulge yourself with a tailor-made in-salon ritual, get the latest look, learn about personalised hair and scalp haircare ing service. needs, or simply discover the latest breakthrough innovations. 13), brings together Soawhy not treat yourself unique, and professional Mewies to& aIndy are sensorial an ambassador salon for horeditch style experience and for sublime hair transformation. Kerastase. We offer the full range of Kerastase turesque and exclusive from treatments to retail and also provide all ood, offers the perfect rituals that are available. IndulgeRITUAL? yourself with a BUT WHAT IS AN IN-SALON KERASTASE g edge and stylish tailor-made in-salon ritual, getbeing the latest look, They're the most advanced formulations that are supplied to Dan and Indy, are the about personalised & scalp with haircare the most luxurious learn environments and salons.hair Combined the boutique salon. They needs, or simply discover the latest breakthrough expertise of Kérastase Ambassadors, they transform hair beauty ssful combination and innovations. ng up and running into the a skillful artform. y hair’, based in ‘The So Treat yourself to a unique, sensorial &

INDULGE YOURprofessional SENSES EXCLUSIVELY experience for sublime hair AT MEWIES AND INDY transformation. But what is an in-salon Kerastase

0 years of combined The salon also offer the Kerastase range formulations Scalp Care, ritual? They're thespecialised most advanced onal awards for their which focus on hairthat and are scalp health including concerns, hair being supplied to scalp the most luxurious attention to salon style and These salons.areCombined withbreak the density, hair quality environments and thinning hair. all high end, n and Indy understand expertise of Kérastase Ambassadors, they through products using the latest formulations creating maximum lientele and recognise hair tobeauty into skilful artform. affects and immensetransform benefits. Due the high levela training, all salon e drive behind their your senses exclusively at Mewies and staff are fully versedIndulge and understand detailed descriptions of each creative relationship is Indy. We also supply the Kerastase specialised product, so if do you require any advice, simply call or pop in to see es and Indy’ and is range Scalp Care which focus on hair and scalp exactly what they recommended for you. ll established clientele health including scalp concerns, hair density, hair ylist. Stylists who are quality and thinning hair. These are all high end, HAIR EXTENSION fer the very bestBALMAIN in break through SPECIALISTS products using the latest Hair Extensions are an innovative of adding volume, nd Indy’s dedicationBalmain to formulations creatingmethod maximum affects and in client care whilst colour, creating texture or length to your natural hair. Balmain Hair immense benefits. Due to our high level training nd embracing cutting offers an extensive range of hair anddescriptions aftercare providing all of our staffextensions know detailed of each d within a welcoming, product so if you need any advice, call orhealthy pop in you with endless creative opportunities to achieve beautiful, utique salon. to see what's recommended for you.

ur amazing team of accomplished stylists what we are today 'the e' and we are not only oard but also extremely m has had the same anting us to maintain g, creativity and care. y based on the amount individual stylist.

0116 251 7170

SPECIAL EVENTS

The Mewies & Indy events team are on hand for bridal showers, exclusive parties, photo shoots, educational events and styling for catwalk and TV. Creating the perfect look for your big day is a particular specialism of the Indy family, whether you desire a classically elegant, loose and relaxed, or modern contemporary style. They also offer a fabulously intimate service for wedding parties where the whole salon will be exclusively yours for a period of time; with nibbles, cakes, champagne and flowers to make the whole experience extra special. In fact anything at all that can possibly make your special day exactly what you want and deserve, they will achieve for you. Our events team are on hand for bridal showers, exclusive parties, photo shoots, educational events and styling for catwalk and TV. Creating the perfect look for your big day is a particular specialism of the Indy Family, whether you desire a classically elegant, loose and relaxed, or modern contemporary style. We also offer a service for wedding parties where we close the whole salon for a period of time. We offer nibbles, cakes, champagne, flowers. Anything at all, that can make your special day what you really deserve, we will achieve. By closing the salon we aim for an intimate experience, with you, and your best friends being pampered and made to look just how you should feel and we aim to also build an environment suitable for you.

MEWI ES & I N DY 3a High Street QUORN • Telephone 01509 767006 www.mewiesandindy.co.uk

indyhair@me.com

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As stated earlier on we are also Balmain Hair extension specialists. Balmain Hair Extensions are an innovative method of adding volume, colour, creating texture or adding length to your natural hair. Balmain Hair offers an extensive range of hair extensions and aftercare providing you with endless creative opportunities to achieve beautiful, healthy and shiny hair. You can book in and shiny hair. Book in for a complimentary consultation with a for a complimentary consultation to see what type skilled specialist to see what type of extension is best for you. of extension you need, quotation of price and to then book in with our specialist.

mewiesandindy.co.uk

@Mihairquorn

/Mewies-and-Indy

highlighting local luxury

| 23 | 02/03/2016 17:19

| FASHION & BEAUTY

NEVER BEFORE HAS THE PHRASE ‘BECAUSE YOU’RE WORTH IT’ BEEN MORE FITTING, AS THIS ISSUE WE ENCOURAGE ALL YOU LADIES OUT THERE TO INDULGE YOURSELVES IN SHEER UNADULTERATED PAMPERING – AND WHO BETTER THAN OUR GORGEOUS BEAUTY QUEEN HAYLEY SPARKES, TO HIGHLIGHT THE VERY BEST THE LUXURY BEAUTY MARKET HAS TO OFFER

P U R E LUXURY

hilst like most beauty junkies I love nothing more than discovering a bargain beauty product that offers fabulous results, there are times when I also feel it is worth treating yourself to something luxurious and extra special. When it comes to more expensive beauty products it’s not always the case that you get what you pay for, but in some instances you will find premium products contain higher levels of active ingredients, the technology behind the product can be more scientifically advanced and you may find overall the quality is superior to cheaper alternatives. For me when I think about luxury beauty, exquisite packaging, rich indulgent formulas, sumptuous textures and beautiful scents all spring to mind, as well as products that really perform. So in the name of ‘scientific beauty research’ I have put to the test a selection of luxurious beauty products. So if you fancy adding a little bit of extra luxury to your beauty collection, here are my recommendations.

ORGANIC GLAM If you are passionate about natural and organic beauty products, I am confident you will be impressed by the Organic Glam range. Whilst studying homeopathy, founder Margo Marrone was shocked by the level of questionable ingredients used in cosmetics, so set out to develop a beauty line based on her herbal, homeopathic and pharmaceutical knowledge that was free from chemicals. The brand principles are based on the best organic ingredients, honest expert

advice, incredibly effective products with purity of formulations. One of the things that makes Organic Glam different is the science behind their formulations. The high tech natural extracts, pharmaceutical grade ingredients and their dosage in the products at levels that really count, means serious results for healthy glowing skin. A lady’s hands can be a real giveaway of her age so I like to invest in keeping mine looking young. I can highly recommend the Organic Glam Hand Lotion which contains the company’s best-selling Orange Blossom Fragrance. Not only does this luxurious cream smell divine, the kind formula naturally protects and leaves hands soft, hydrated and delicately fragrant. If you really want to go to town the Organic Glam Limited Edition Oriental Blossom Fragrance really will take your senses on a journey through the Orient - with mystical veiled beauties, rich colours, jewelled gardens and warm spices. Oriental Blossom opens with subtle citrus notes of Sicillian Bergamot, Lemon and Mandarin and moves seamlessly into the spicy ﬂoral heart of Cinnamon, Clove, Rose and Neroli. As the heart gently evaporates you are left with the rich warm notes of Oakmoss, Vetiver, Pepper and the sweetness of Vanilla and Ylang Ylang. theorganicpharmacy.com

PEVONIA BOTANICA Another powerhouse in the natural beauty world is a company called Pevonia Botanica. Celebrity fans of Pevonia Botanica skin care include Angelina Jolie, Cate Blanchett, Matthew McConaughey, Cameron Diaz, Rachel Weisz, Eva Mendes and Jodie Kidd. Pevonia offers a complete line of spa products containing the finest natural marine and botanical ingredients, combined with technologically advanced formulas and treatments that deliver highly visible results. The ingredients in Pevonia’s natural skin care range are superior and refined in quality, and from the very best RRP £46.00 source making them one of my most highly recommended luxury beauty product lines. I am a personal fan of Pevonia’s Soothing Sensitive Skin Cream.

RRP £35.00

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This moisturising face cream is rich in natural propolis, sourced from the Jura mountains of France, drenched in natural antibiotic ﬂavonoids, minerals and polysaccharides. The propolis boosts the skin’s healing process by accelerating tissue regeneration within the skin. Helping to decongest and desensitise, it effectively strengthens the capillary walls and contains UV Protection. If you

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suffer with sensitive skin I would urge you to give this a try, a little bit goes a very long way and it left my skin feeling calm, hydrated and soft to the touch. pevonia.co.uk

Each bomb contains a different blend of essential oils to calm the mind, soothe and relax the body and to restore a sense of mental well-being.

MURAD ENVIRONMENTAL SHIELD ESSENTIAL C EYE CREAM Another area especially prone to the signs of ageing is around the eyes. This is why I am happy to invest in what I consider to be a really advanced luxury eye cream from the Murad range. I have been using the environmental shield essential C eye cream for a few years now as I have found it to be very revitalising when my eyes feel tired and it contains broad spectrum SPF 15 to help protect from sun damage. This scientifically advanced eye cream protects and hydrates the delicate eye area by shielding skin from environmental assaults including damaging UVA/UVB rays. Utilising Murad’s patented Skin Repair System, it stimulates collagen synthesis to help repair stress damage, while smoothing the appearance of fine lines and restoring youthful elasticity and firmness. Not only does this eye cream help protect against future sun damage it also helps to renew skin whereby sun damage has already occurred. Key ingredients include Shorea Stenoptera Butter and Avocado Oil to intensely hydrate the eye area and prevent moisture loss, Caffeine and Retinol to help reduce puffiness RRP £49.50 while stimulating cell renewal. This clever eye cream also contains light Diffusers which soften the appearance of fine lines and dark circles murad.co.uk

AROMAWORKS I have always been an advocate for Aromatherapy and in my experience have found aromatherapy oils to be a very powerful tool to help either calm or invigorate the mind and body. AromaWorks creates natural skincare and home fragrance, which is packed with 100% pure essential oils and botanical extracts. The range is paraben free, sulphate free, silicone free, mineral oil free, gluten free, diary free, not tested on animals, suitable for vegans and also safe in pregnancy.

RRP £22.00 After bathing I applied the Aromaworks Body Finish Cream which contains proven skin conditioning (Actiglow C, Actimoist Plus) combined with powerful antioxidants (Vitamin E) to moisturise, nourish and revitalise the skin. Other key ingredients include Cocoa Butter to help fade the appearance of scars, stretch marks and wrinkles, Aloe Vera to help soothe dry and chapped skin and Rose Geranium to help oily and congested skin. After application my skin smelt delicious and felt super soft, certainly a luxury beauty buy worth investing in. aroma-works.com

Supported by years of research and product innovation, all AromaWorks products are exclusively made in the UK from the finest 100% natural essential oils, all which have been sourced ethically and are free from harmful chemicals. One of my favourite ways to destress in life is to relax in the bath. To make my bath time ritual even more indulgent I tried the AromaBomb Quad Box. These beautiful bath bombs contain detoxifying Himalayan sea salt, soothing calamine combined with 100% pure essential oils, which create the most luxurious and therapeutic bathing experience.

07958 651329

hayleysparkes@live.com

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RRP £39.00

I hope my reviews may encourage you to treat your skin to a little extra luxury, until next time… x

hayleysparkes.co.uk

@hayleysparkes

/hayley.m.sparkes

highlighting local luxury

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How Do You Like Your Eggs? WE LOVE EASTER, THE CHOCOLATIERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FAVOURITE SEASON! All our iconic Easter Eggs are back, including our huge Ostrich Egg, our Extra Thick Eggs, Scrambled Eggs, Egg Sandwiches and our classic Egglets.

Find your nearest store at hotelchocolat.com

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GIFT GUIDE |

Ostrich Egg | £75 hotelchocolat.com

Handmade Chocolate Easter Eggs From £4.95-19.95 | chocolate-alchemy.co.uk

Butlers Chocolate Egg Collection £12 | johnlewis.com

Eggs & Soldiers | £7 hotelchocolat.com

Linndt Heavenly Hazelnut Milk Chocolate Egg | £19.99

Happy Easter

CHECK OUT OUR TOP PICKS OF CHOCOLATEY TREATS FOR AN INDULGENT EASTER

Mini Egg Easter Sweet Tree £17.99 | cuckooland.com

Easter Chocolates | £35 biscuiteers.com

Choconchoc Melt & Make 12.95 | cuckooland.com

Chococo Butterfly Studded Egg £12 | johnlewis.com

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Cocoa Amore Chocolate Eggs | From £5 cocoa-amore.co.uk

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| 27 | 03/03/2016 12:19

FROM LITTLE ACORNS Charlotte and Sam Clement are already incredibly proud of their ﬂedgling, family run, rural online oak gift business established in 2015. With Sam also working hard for their well-established oak framing company Hortus Ligneous Ltd (www.hortuslig.co.uk), Charlotte really fancied getting her teeth into a project together; so by combining their skills, they soon created ‘From The Oak Tree’; manufacturing beautiful, personalised oak gifts and chopping boards.

Personalised Oak

CHOPPING BOARDS & GIFTS

Charlotte and Sam offer their customers wonderful solid oak gifts that will last for years and be handed down for generations. You can purchase chopping boards, swings, welly boot racks and gifts engraved with slogans from our ‘old favourites’, think up your own ‘witty’ or poignant message or use it to mark an occasion, name or date. From The Oak Tree gifts offer that unique personal gift for that extra special person. What grandchild wouldn’t love to swing their way through spring with a solid oak, engraved swing? Wouldn't Easter Sunday be just perfect with a personalised dippy egg board or egg rack for those beautifully laid eggs? Which mum wouldn't be delighted with a hand finished oak chopping board or a place to charge their precious iPad? From The Oak Tree really do have something for everyone, you just have to choose what! Whatever you decide you can be safe in the knowledge that each individual piece is lovingly made and hand finished in their family workshop, adding that extra special touch. From The Little Acorns Mighty Gifts Grow!

enquiries@fromtheoaktree.co.uk | 01664 650075 www.fromtheoaktree.co.uk

O R D E R B Y 12 M I D N I G H T F O R N E X T D AY D E L I V E R Y TO HOME FOR £3.99 OR TO A STORE FOR FREE* * UK mainland only, subject to stock, courier area and availability.

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GIFT GUIDE |

Jimboboa 'Mrs Hard don't care to share' side plate £25 amara.com

Easter Hen by MykStudio £3.40 dawanda.com

Wooden Chicken by Ideen aus Holz und Farbe £14 dawanda.com

Little Black Hen Egg Dish £6.95 theskinnycardcompany.com

Easter Cookie Cutter Set £9 whitestuff.com

Egg Candle £4 johnlewis.com

Happy Easter Cushion £9 sainsburys.com/home

Egg Holding Chopping Boards £35 fromtheoaktree.com

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| GIFT GUIDE

HOLLAND’S NURSERIES …the place for plants OPENING TIMES March - 10:00-14:00

Closed Sunday & Monday

April Onwards - 10:00-17:00 Closed Mondays except Bank Holidays

Specialist growers of cottage garden perennials, beding, patio & basket plants for all seasons

We love our plants Tea Room, Cafe and Farm Shop

With two showrooms and a small gallery, Dotty is a showcase for British artists • contemporary ceramics • handmade silver jewellery • gifts, • orginal art • greetings cards. Ask about our creative workshops. Enjoy a complimentary coffee while you browse.

We also have a beautiful little tea room and cafe serving light lunches with amazing views Our new farm shop offers jams, chutneys, dairy, cakes, Hollands hampers and lots more

For Tea Room Bookings please call: 07712 048409 Skylark Farm, Tilton Road, Twyford, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, LE14 2HZ | 01664 841 356

12 Main Street, Twyford, LE14 2HU | 01664840910 OPENING TIMES: Tues-Fri 12:00-18:00 | Sat 10:00-18:00 | Sun 13:00-16:00

/dottygallery.lesleyharris|dottygallery.co.uk

The Saddle

10 Main Street, Twyford Melton Mowbray Leicestershire, LE14 2HU

A Friendly & Professional Dog Grooming Salon

All sizes and breeds welcome Collection & delivery service available

Full Groom Clipping Hand Stripping Puppy Groom Nail Clip & Paw tidy De- Matting Bathing Working Cuts 01164 841322 Valley Farm, Melton Mowbray, LE14 2RE www.tidydog.co.uk

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01664 841108

The Saddle in Twyford is an English country inn situated opposite the village’s 900 year old church. Inside you will find lots of character, including log fires in season, and a friendly relaxed atmosphere. The pub is under new management, fully refurbished and is complimented by staff who offer a very warm welcome and professional service. We serve a variety of quality traditional ales, hot drinks and snacks, as well as providing plenty of events for families and couples alike to enjoy. Opening Times Food Served Monday - Friday 4pm - 11pm Tuesday - Friday 5pm - 8.45pm Saturday 12pm - 11pm Saturday 12pm - 8.45pm Sunday 12pm - 10.30pm Sunday 12pm - 3pm

www.thesaddletwyford.co.uk

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DERIVED FROM OLD ENGLISH AND MEANING ‘DOUBLE FORD’, THERE ARE MANY TWYFORDS LITTERED ACROSS BRITAIN INCLUDING BERKSHIRE, BUCKINGHAMSHIRE, DERBYSHIRE, HAMPSHIRE, LINCOLNSHIRE, MIDDLESEX AND NORFOLK, BUT OUR FOCUS IS MUCH CLOSER TO HOME, RIGHT HERE IN LEICESTERSHIRE

Twyford LOOKING FOR BEAUTIFUL BLOOMS…?

CHEERS!

Holland’s Nursery are a family run business growing bedding, patio and cottage garden perennials with a few shrubs and climbers mixed in; 90% of which are all grown on site.

The Saddle Pub is a warm and friendly, family run free-house, offering high quality food as well as an extensive range of beers, ales and spirits.

Specialising in bespoke hanging baskets through the seasons and offering refill or new baskets in any colour and plant combination, Holland’s is a great place to visit to get your garden in bloom – and using mostly rain water and solar energy, they are an echo friendly nursery too! With plans to launch an online plant shop, you will soon be able to enjoy the added convenience of their brand new mail order service. Farmshop and tea room on site Holland’s Nursery, Skylark Farm, Twyford, Melton Mowbray, LE14 2HZ | T: 01664 841356 | www.hollandsnurseries.co.uk

DOTTY ABOUT ART…? Based in Twford’s 17th century bakehouse, Dotty Gallery, is a fabulous showcase for contemporary silver jewellery, ceramics, gifts, original art and greetings cards, plus many other artisan products not usually found on the high street. When owner Lesley Harris first considered converting the old village bakehouse into a gallery, in a small village in the middle of the countryside, many had their doubts – but three years later and with the support of friends and many lovely customers, Lesley is now incredibly proud of Dotty Gallery and loves having the opportunity to showcase the handmade work of both local artists and others from around the UK. So, pop in and enjoy a complimentary coffee while you browse – or why not consider learning a new skill and booking a place on one of the many creative workshops available – there’s even homemade cake included! Dotty Gallery, 12 Main Street, Twyford, Melton Mowbray, LE14 2HU | T: 01664 840910 | www.dottygallery.co.uk

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With roaring open fires, real ales changed weekly so you can sample the ales from different breweries, cribb league, darts team and wonderful home-cooked food, The Saddle really does have everything you’d expect from a true local. As well as traditional fayre, why not stop by and try their homecooked pizzas – to eat in or take away! Food is served: Tuesday to Friday 5pm - 8.45pm Saturday 12 noon - 8.45pm Sunday 12 noon – 3pm (Carvery) The Saddle Pub, 10 Main Street, Twyford, Melton Mowbray, LE14 2HU | T: 01664 841108 | www.thesaddletwyford.co.uk

THINKING OF SPOILING YOUR POOCH…? Then head over to Tidydog Grooming, a professional dog grooming salon, where a warm and friendly welcome await you and your canine companion. At Tidydog Grooming, you can rest easy in the knowledge your four legged friend is in excellent (and experienced) hands at all times – and being huge dog-lovers themselves, they know precisely how much your dog means to you. Great care is taken to ensure your dog is happy and relaxed, and as a small holding in the country with access to paddocks right outside, your dog can enjoy a run and play before and after their appointment, making the visit to Tidydog Grooming a pleasant and rewarding experience. Tidydog Grooming, Valley Farm, Station Road, John O’Gaunt, Melton Mowbray, LE14 2RE | T: 01664 841332 www.tidydoggrooming.com

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| SPECIAL FEATURE

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PROPERTY Special

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Interior Mode Granite Mode Stylish Home Solutions

Affordable Quartz Worktops

Free Design Service

Granite, Marble, Quartz

Kitchens

Template, Supply & Fit

Bedrooms

Worktops

Bathrooms Flooring Glass Splashbacks

Splashbacks

Interior Design

Island Units

Building Alterations

Extensive Colour Selection

Full Project Management

Competitive Prices

Visit Our Showroom Signalmans Cottage, Station Road, Narborough, Leicester LE19 2HR t: 0116 2848489 m: 07745 224900 info@interiormode.uk.com www.interiormode.uk.com

Visit Our Showroom Signalmans Cottage, Station Road, Narborough, Leicester LE19 2HR t: 0116 2848400 m: 07745 224900 info@granitemode.co.uk www.granitemode.co.uk

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Upstands

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02/03/2016 14:38

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Forestside Specialists in Restoration & Renovation Forestside Building Services Ltd, Clearview Business Park, 103 Loughborough Rd, Quorn, Leics, LE12 8XG | 01509 416888 | forestsideltd.co.uk

Led by a trained restorer with 22 years experience as a specialist dealer in Antique and Contemporary Hand knotted Oriental & European Rugs, Carpets, Kilims, Textiles & Cushions.

昀愀猀琀爀攀氀椀愀戀氀攀猀攀爀瘀椀挀攀䘀漀爀愀氀氀礀漀甀爀搀攀挀漀爀愀琀椀渀最愀渀搀戀甀椀氀搀椀渀最渀攀攀搀猀䌀漀洀瀀氀攀琀攀倀爀漀樀攀挀琀䴀愀渀愀最攀洀攀渀琀

THE RUG STUDIO, 2 High St East, Uppingham, Rutland, LE15 9PZ. Open: Monday to Saturday 10am - 5pm or by appointment Telephone: 01572 829927 or 07885 757 796 Email: info@therugstudio.co.uk Website: www.therugstudio.co.uk

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∠ 唀倀嘀䌀圀椀渀搀漀眀猀 ☀ 䌀漀渀猀攀爀瘀愀琀漀爀椀攀猀 ∠ 唀倀嘀䌀䘀愀猀挀椀愀猀Ⰰ 匀漀ϻ琀猀 ☀ 䜀甀甀攀爀猀 ∠ 䈀甀椀氀搀椀渀最 ☀ 刀攀昀甀爀戀椀猀栀洀攀渀琀 ∠ 䬀椀琀挀栀攀渀猀 ☀ 䈀愀琀栀爀漀漀洀猀䘀椀椀攀搀 ∠ 倀氀愀猀琀攀爀椀渀最 ☀ 吀椀氀椀渀最 ∠ 倀愀椀渀渀渀最 ☀ 䐀攀挀漀爀愀愀渀最

㄀㄀㘀㈀㘀㤀㘀㈀㔀㈀㜀㤀㄀㤀㔀㐀㌀㤀眀眀眀⸀爀漀戀攀爀爀渀最爀愀洀搀攀挀漀爀愀琀漀爀猀⸀挀漀洀眀眀眀⸀爀漀戀攀爀爀渀最爀愀洀甀瀀瘀挀⸀挀漀洀

thebeaconmagazine.co.uk

03/03/2016 12:46

Spacious, modern, high specification townhouses in Stamford come take a closer look at

Anvil Mews

Ask us about our

investor package

For more information contact Caroline on 07717 895399 or email: anvilmews@allison-homes.co.uk

www.allison-homes.co.uk Tel: 07717 895399

Anvil Mews, off Radcliffe Road, Stamford PE9 1FB

Room layouts, orientation of room layouts, finishes and fittings may vary to the images shown in this advert depending on plot number. Room interior photographs are of plot 7 and are for indicative purposes only. 1982 0216

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| SPECIAL FEATURE

JOHN LEWIS HAVE BEEN SELLING KITCHENS FOR OVER 80 YEARS, AND ARE WELL KNOWN NOT ONLY FOR EXCEPTIONALLY GREAT VALUE, BUT ALSO FOR THEIR INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN AND PREMIUM QUALITY

Windsor - Classic Collection

TAKES CARE OF IT…

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Experts on Hand

ou can reply on the experts at John Lewis to plan, design and fit your beautiful new kitchen, and with their interest free credit offer when you spend £1,000 - £25,000, you can enjoy peace of mind too.

John Lewis offer six distinctive ranges of kitchen, the First, House, County, Continental and Classic Collections and the branded Alno Range. Each provides a wide selection of options so you can choose the kitchen that’s right for you at a price that’s affordable. All John Lewis kitchens come with a 10 year guarantee, and 5 years for Alno kitchens for added assurance.

Elba - Continental Collection

First Collection - Brings together the great design and quality you would expect from John Lewis at an extremely affordable price. All units delivered fully assembled for simple installation. House by John Lewis - Simply modern, affordable and practical. Bringing together simplicity and beautiful finishes, it has clever storage ideas that make the most of every inch of space. Continental Collection - Offers elegant design and brings chic styling to your kitchen by allowing you to mix and match with varying door colours, textures and finishes. County Collection - Combines classic looks with quality construction and exceptional attention to detail. Subtle colour ranges enable to express your own style. Classic Collection - A traditional shaker or classic with-a-twist styles in-frame in natural oak or one of 25 unique colours. It also comes with a variety of hand finished individual feature pieces including dressers, pantry cabinets and decorative island units. Alno - A German manufacturer producing very high quality kitchens. Using the best materials they offer bespoke accessories to complement their designs which not only look beautiful but also make the kitchen as efficient to use as possible.

BUYING A KITCHEN AT JOHN LEWIS CHOOSE Book a shop floor appointment with a John Lewis Partner, share your dream kitchen ideas and discuss your requirements. The Partner will help you choose the best range for your style, lifestyle and budget, and arrange samples for you to view in your home. Once you’ve decided what style of kitchen you want, it’s time to book a planner to visit your home (costs £50, but fully redeemable against the purchase of your kitchen).

CREATE A planner will visit you in your home to survey and take accurate measurements. Using the latest computer technology, they will design a room that suits your lifestyle and makes the best use of the available space working within your budget. When the design has been finalised, you’ll be invited to your local branch, where the planner will present the

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Lexford - Country Collection

design, explaining the details and cost estimate. Once you’ve approved the plans and estimate, we’ll order your kitchen and get everything moving. You’ll only need to pay a 20% (nonrefundable) deposit and the balance will be payable 2 weeks before the delivery day.

INSTALL Once the plans have been approved and the kitchen is ordered, an experienced fitter will arrange a pre-site visit to reconfirm the plans, ensuring water, gas and electricity supplies do not require moving. Their qualified installers (all iKBBI registered) will arrive to carry out all the work involved from removing your old kitchen, to installing the new furniture including connecting appliances. All gas work is carried out by Gas Safe Register installers while all electrical work meets the latest Institute of Electrical Engineers standards and complies with current building regulations.

ENJOY After all work has been completed, John Lewis will visit your home to check that you are happy with your new kitchen. For your peace of mind, all our kitchen doors are guaranteed for 10 years. All that’s left is to sit back and enjoy your new kitchen. John Lewis, 2 Bath House Lane, Highcross Shopping Centre, Leicester, LE1 4SA | johnlewis.com/Leicester | 0844 6931 745

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Broughtons

Traditional Lighting, Ironmongery & Home Accessories Quality hand-made curtains, blinds and soft furnishings for your home. We supply and fit: • • • • •

Made to measure curtains Roman blinds Wooden and metal venetians Vertical and Roller blinds

Choose from a large selection of fabrics from suppliers such as Blendworth, Voyage, Clarke & Clarke, Prestigious and more.

Celebrating

10 years

FULL FITTING SERVICE

IN BUSINESS

We would like to thank all our customers for their support over the last 10 years and we look forward to meeting new customers in the future.

Showrooms and Coffee Lounge Open 7 Days Mon-Sat 9am - 5pm & Sundays 10am - 4pm

Contact Jackie or Paul on 01509 413207 or email us at sales@newboldcurtains.co.uk

www . n e wbo ldc u rtain san dblin ds . c o . u k

Moving with the times!

A Professional Home Furnishing Service Services include: Carpets & Flooring, Furniture, Curtains, Blinds & Shutters Flooring, fabrics and wallpapers from leading manufacturers

Interior Design Service

Consultation, site survey, planning, drawing and visuals

12 Abbey Gate, Leicester, LE4 0AB | 0116 251 6501 info@perkinsstockwell.co.uk | www.perkinsstockwell.co.uk

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03/03/2016 15:24

92604

SPECIAL FEATURE |

TILE IT

f you have a tiling project in mind, there is no better place to bring it to life than EMC Tiles, Tile Association ‘best use of tiles in the home’ award winners. Firstly you’ll find over 50 full size and realistic room-set displays, bringing together an inspiring range of tile ideas in one place, so you can really get a feel for how your own project will look at home. Alongside this, their fully trained staff are available to provide expert help and advice, from creative design right through to quantities, accessories and fixing options. Working closely with leading tile manufacturers from right across Europe, enables EMC to offer their customers the very latest in tile design, style choice and finish. The huge selection of ceramic tiles they carry in stock, also ensures they stay ahead of current trends from textured natural wood-effect, limestone and marble finishes to vibrant patterns, bold colours or cool monochrome. So, when you visit EMC’s showroom, you can trust that you’re not only getting the widest choice, but the most attractive prices and fantastic design advice, all topped off by free local delivery. 551 Saffron Lane, Leicester, LE2 6UN | 0116 283 4068 Prince William Rd, Loughborough, LE11 5GD | 01509 210999 www.emctiles.co.uk EMC Beacon Half Page Jan 2016:260 x 85 copy 1 3/2/16

14:01

Page 1

Credit: emc:tiles

Need inspired Tile Ideas? www.emctiles.co.uk - FREE LOCAL DELIVERY Y IT AL QU T EC RF PE ES IC LOWER PR

With Over 50 Roomset Displays 551 Saffron Lane, Leicester, LE2 6UN

Telephone: 0116 283 4068 Email: lcsales@emctiles.co.uk Prince William Road, Loughborough, LE11 5GD

Telephone: 01509 210999 Email: emclb@emctiles.co.uk

Buying Made Easier

PLEASE VISIT WWW.EMCTILES.CO.UK TO SEE OUR LATEST TILE DESIGNS

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The Fabric Millshop Factory Outlet

Curtain & upholstery fabric from ÂŁ1 per metre Full range of curtain & upholstery supplies Craft fabric & craft supplies

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www.the-millshop-online.co.uk

2 Rothersthorpe Avenue, Monday - Saturday: 9.30 - 16.00 Rothersthorpe Trading Est, Sunday & Holidays : Closed Northampton, 01604 875 062 NN4 8JH

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SPECIAL FEATURE |

THE MILLSHOP ONLINE IS A FAMILY RUN SOFT FURNISHINGS COMPANY BASED IN NORTHAMPTONSHIRE. OPERATING FROM THEIR LARGE WAREHOUSE IN THE MIDLANDS WITH A GLOBAL REACH VIA THEIR ONLINE FACILITY, THEY SHIP FABRICS AROUND THE WORLD ON A DAILY BASIS

They predominantly offer curtain and upholstery fabrics from top designer houses, as well as one off pieces from undiscovered mills across Britain and Europe. Ranging from heavyweight tapestries, velvets and chenille, to luxurious hand-woven 100% wools and beautiful screen printed linens and cottons, they boast an extensive array of fabrics. Quality and originality are key at The Millshop Online, evident from the exclusive pieces and bespoke fabrics available. Their selected designers including Linwood Fabrics, Blendworth, Abraham Moon, Harris Tweed, Clarke & Clarke and Prestigious Textiles, coupled with their unique design and development expertise, guarantees a truly individual piece every time.

Fabulous Fabrics

The Millshop Online prides itself as a ‘genuine stockist’, and actually carrying the rolls of fabric in stock at their premises, enables them to offer not only outstanding value for money, but also an efficient same day dispatch to their customers. In addition to stocking over 150,000 metres of fabric, they also work very closely with a number of quality fabric houses, providing a vast range available to order. An official supplier for the popular ITV show 60 Minute Makeover, incredibly they also supplied fabric for the winner of BBC 2 series, The Great Interior Design Challenge. With their fabrics also featuring on shows such as Hollywood Me and Cowboy Builders, they are certainly no stranger to television media coverage. At their premises, The Millshop Online also has an end of line section comprising an impressive volume of fabric, with prices starting at just £1 per metre. Often including discontinued ranges from top designer fabric houses, they include full rolls of fabric suitable for both curtain and upholstery, providing an ideal opportunity to accomplish any size project with high quality fabric at an incredible price. Additionally, at their warehouse they have a large craft section including a plethora of craft fabrics, ribbons, buttons, quilting products and more. Alongside all of this, they also offer luxury furniture products including wingback chairs, footstools and beanbags. Their furniture range is designed and produced by exclusive designer Brockhall Designs, who make all their furniture by hand in the UK. As a family run company, The Millshop Online firmly places positive customer experience at the heart of their business and continually strives to provide the very best customer service possible. The Fabric Millshop Factory Outlet, 2 Rothersthorpe Avenue, Rothersthorpe Trading Est, Northampton, NN4 8JH 01604 875 062 | www.the-millshop-online.co.uk

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Moorland Duisdale Heather | Credit: Abraham Moon

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| ADVERTORIAL

THURCASTON BASED BUSINESS, TEBBATT KITCHENS & ELECTRONICS SPECIALISES IN THE DESIGN AND INSTALLATION OF ALNO KITCHENS, COLONIAL AND ECO KITCHENS, REDEFINING THE LOOK AND ESSENCE OF YOUR HOME KITCHEN EXACTLY AS YOU WANT IT

Redeﬁning Style

FOR YOU R KITCHEN

ith an expert team of kitchen designers and fitters Tebbatts is on hand to create a kitchen for you that will exceed with your expectations and the highest home kitchen standards.

Their supply, design, and fit of ALNO kitchens is the ideal choice for obtaining a premium quality contemporary kitchen. ALNO is regarded as one of Germany’s finest kitchen manufacturers, leading and pioneering in contemporary and modern style kitchen innovations. Furthermore, Tebbatt Kitchens also provides options for traditional and classic style kitchens by providing high quality design, fit, and supply of Colonial and Eco kitchens. Colonial and Eco kitchens are a major British manufacturer of traditional style kitchens.

The aftercare department ensures that your worktops and appliances are functioning as desired in your new kitchen. As for many years, in addition to beautifully fitted kitchens, Tebbatts also continues to offer Panasonic televisions, freestanding and built in Bosch, NEFF and Siemens appliances – again with a full after sales service, providing you with assured peace of mind. Tebbatt Kitchens & Electronics, The Crossroads, Anstey Lane, Thurcaston, Leicester, LE7 7JA | 0116 236 3898 | tebbatt.co.uk Customer Car Park next to the showroom

At Tebbatts, their mission is simple; to serve you with premium quality kitchen fitting services that cover all aspects of your home kitchen – from design and innovation to fitting, completion, and aftercare.

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02/03/2016 17:49

CHARLES LOWE INTERIORS LOUGHBOROUGH

RY S A NS ER IO IV T N MO

Celebrating 175 years with generous discounts Set in the heart of Leicestershire’s beautiful Charnwood forest, Charles Lowe & Sons are a ﬁfth generation family of cabinet makers & architectural joiners. The extensive old building a 15th Century Guildhall showcases our own work together with examples from leading supliers. Both traditional designs and modern classics.

37-40 Churchgate, Loughborough, LE11 1UE Tel: 01509 212554 | Email: sales@charleslowe.co.uk

NOTED FOR QUALITY, VALUE & STYLE 1841-2016

OPEN MONDAY TO FRIDAY • WWW.CHARLESLOWE.CO.UK

N O PR

PRESTIGE INTERIORS

Charles Lowe Sons EST 1846

www.charleslowe.co.uk

CONNOISSEURS CORNER • CHURCHGATEhighlighting & SPARROW HILL local luxury | 45 |

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02/03/2016 14:47 16:10 02/03/2016

Classic deVOL This year it’s the return of the ‘Classic Kitchen’ and deVOL do it better than anyone. It’s what Paul O’Leary started out doing thirty years ago, it was the reason it all began. It’s so good to know the thing that started deVOL over thirty years ago is still as loved as it was way back in the little shop on Quorn High Street. Now our home is at Cotes Mill and Clerkenwell in London, but many of the same people still work here and it’s still all about simple furniture, beautifully made right here in Leicestershire.

doors and window boxes, delightfully stylish cafés, independent shops and a proper street market with fresh fish and vegetables of real quality and diversity.

We love to show you all of our brand new kitchen pictures each month and are always so happy when people comment on how beautiful they are. A lovely gentleman from our local pub in Woodhouse Eaves was particularly taken with last month’s images and wanted to know all about the house and the kitchen. So just for Bill, and everyone else who loves to know the history behind the images, I will tell you all about our most recent kitchen project.

The kitchen in this house was everything I wanted it to be, a good old fashioned kitchen in a lovely big family home. This room had just the right amount of new and traditional to make it feel modern and slightly above fashionable, our Classic English furniture was a perfect choice. Essentially this is a galley kitchen, but unusually the room is open at both ends, so it feels very spacious and easy to be in, with views into the dining room and the lovely fitted boot room and utility at the back of the house, which by the way, is also deVOL cupboards. The ceilings were very high, so the wall cupboards were tall, the fridge and pantry were placed behind closed doors and the worktops were solid Oak. The whole room just seemed to work, I love it when you walk into one of our kitchens and everything is as you had hoped and more, you wouldn’t change a thing.

This kitchen is in a beautiful house in Pimlico central London, just next to Belgravia, which is well known for its regency houses and garden squares. A busy little enclave; this area is full of beautifully manicured front

The Cotes Mill showrooms are open Monday to Friday from 8.30am – 5pm and Saturdays from 10am – 5pm. (For consultations on Saturdays we generally recommend booking an appointment).

Cotes Mill, Nottingham Road, Cotes, Loughborough, LE12 5TL - 01509 261000 2 Tysoe Street, Clerkenwell, London, EC1R 4RQ - 0203 8375 900 - Email: enquiries@devolkitchens.co.uk

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Loft ladder, Light & Switch plus 50 sqft of flooring from as little as ÂŁ287+VAT which includes FREE fitting in less than a day.

Call us now on: 0800

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03 59 880 or 0116 401 5461

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02/03/2016 16:10

Fixed

SELL YOUR HOME FOR A FIXED COST

CHOOSE FROM OUR RANGE OF PROPERTY SERVICE PACKAGES

PREMIUM PACKAGE

ENHANCED PACKAGE 2

CLASSIC PACKAGE

Prominent High Street Location

Excellent Website Coverage Rightmove, On The Market, Andrew Granger & Co websites

Energy Performance Certificate

Loughborough Echo Advertising

Standard Sales Particulars

Floorplan

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For Sale Board

Glossy Brochure

For Sale Board

Viewings Arranged

Professional Photography

Accompanied Viewings

Negotiation of Offers

Loughborough Echo Advertising

Viewings Arranged

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£750+VAT

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Payable at instruction

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Sales Progression

£2250+VAT Payable on completion

If you are considering selling your home, or just need professional property advice, please contact Andrew Granger & Co. on 01509 235 534, email david.woodfield@andrewgranger.co.uk or visit www.andrewgranger.co.uk

Passionate about property Andrew Granger & Co. 2 High Street, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE11 2PY. Offices at Loughborough, Leicester, Market Harborough and London Mayfair. If your property is currently on the market with an estate agent, please check the terms and details of your contract before instructing Andrew Granger & Co to market your home to ensure that you will not be liable to pay two sets of fees

01509 235 534 thebeaconmagazine.co.uk

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BEDROOMS

| SPECIAL FEATURE

Christy Connie Pink bedlinen christy-towels.com

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02/03/2016 17:47

4 1 Cabbages and Roses Constance Raspberry Curtains and Square Cushion £65 per m2 johnlewis.com

2 Ted Baker Pure Peony Cushion £25 housingunits.co.uk 3 Isabelle Cushion 43cm x 43cm £17.99 Embroidery Albertine Mulberry 50cm x 40cm £19.99 Mulberry Velvet Cushion 50cm x 50cm £19.99 Woven Blanket in Cream £49.99 homebase.co.uk

4 Jasmin Velvet Cushion Raspberry £12.99, Misty Moors Oxford Pillowcase £5.99, Calie Check Oxford Pillowcase £5.99, Misty Moors Duvet Cover Set Double £19.99, Misty moors Bedspread £49.99 - £69.99, Liberty Nickel Bedstead Double £399.99, Sasha Swan Neck Table Lamp £24.99, Eaton Lamp Table £229.99, Misty Floral Rug £69.99 £209.99 Dunelm.com

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highlighting local luxury

| 51 | 02/03/2016 17:47

| SPECIAL FEATURE

WITH OVER 25 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE WITHIN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY HARMATT PROVIDES COMPLETE BUILDING AND MAINTENANCE SOLUTIONS TO BOTH RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL CLIENTS WITHIN THE SOUTH LEICESTERSHIRE AREAS

Quality COUNTS

riding themselves on putting quality first to ensure complete customer satisfaction at all times, this is demonstrated through the repeat business and customer referrals Harmatt regularly receive.

Focused on delivering excellent client care, complemented with particular attention to detail, Harmatt are well established as a

reputable building and maintenance contractor providing coverage to clients in the East-Midlands and surrounding areas. Their commitment to delivering value for money is supported by their active membership of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), Trustmark and Constructionline; offering peace of mind to their customers to know they are dealing with a company they can really trust. Harmatt cover most aspects of building and maintenance including but not limited to… • Kitchens & Bathrooms • Electrical, Plumbing & Heating • Plastering, Joinery, Roofing & Wall & Floor Tiling • New Build, Extensions, Renovations & Refurbishment • Project Management, Shopfitting, Brickwork, Landscaping Building Maintenance • Grounds Maintenance, Insurance Work, Commercial & Residential 35a Victoria St, Fleckney, Leicester, LE8 8AZ | 0116 2401811 www.harmatt.co.uk

HARMATT LTD

www.harmatt.co.uk Office: 0116 2401811 | Mobile: 07794475726 | Email: info@harmatt.co.uk 35a Victoria Street, Fleckney, Leicester, LE8 8AZ

All aspects of Property Services and Maintenance

Renovations & Refurbishments, Landscaping & Patios, Kitchens & Bathrooms, Project Management and New Builds

Company registered in England & Wales registration number 6960767

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02/03/2016 17:50

LE IL SA R G H AP IN T R 30 S P ND 2

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Low Woods Furnishings •

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Dents Road, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Leics. LE65 1JS

Call us on 01530 564 864

visit us at: fabcoltd.co.uk

We are next to ALDI, adjacent to Wickes & Pets at Home. Open 7 days a week for your convenience! Large free carpark on the door step.

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highlighting local luxury

| 53 | 03/03/2016 12:48

Steve Hills Design Ltd “Quality Isn’t Expensive, It’s Priceless…”

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thebeaconmagazine.co.uk

03/03/2016 12:48

SPECIAL FEATURE |

THE BUZZ OF A THRIVING TOWN CENTRE; THE SMELL OF A FARMERS MARKET OR AN INDEPENDENT DELI, OR SIMPLY JUST MEETING FRIENDS FOR COFFEE AND A WANDER ROUND THE SHOPS IS ON THE UP AND ACCORDING TO RICHARD MORRIS OF HARTLEYS, ESTATE AGENTS LOCATED IN THE HEART OF THESE HIGH STREETS ARE EXPERIENCING HUGE BENEFITS FROM THE RESURGENCE

THE HIGH STREET BUZZ

owns across the UK are going through this revolution helped by local support such as Love Loughborough and the Mary Portas initiative and there appears to be a real appetite for bringing new communities together.

I don’t think anyone can argue with the trend in online shopping and the revolution the likes of Rightmove and other property portals have brought to searching for properties for sale. Friends will even occasionally pull my leg saying that I just ‘Stick them online and the properties sell themselves!’ If only they knew!! The good news though is that this High Street revolution is helping to build new communities, who in turn aspire to move and live in the best local areas and shop in your local town centre. Estate agents with a strong High Street and local community presence with easily accessible offices are very much part of the story, as one supports the other. Mr and Mrs Entwistle (no, no relation to The Who's John, I asked!) and who had been in their home for 27 years, had absolutely no thoughts of moving house on the morning they came shopping in my local market town Loughborough. After a busy shopping

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trip they found themselves stood outside our High Street office, laden with bags waiting for their daughter to collect them in the car. Browsing our shop window of properties for sale, they spot the one and only house they said they'd love to buy if it ever became available. After some umming and arrrhing they came into my office where our team provided specific details and offered advice on what options they had available to make their dream become a reality (remember it had been 27 years!). Fast forward 12 weeks, a very nervous start and a huge leap of faith later and yes, Mrs Entwistle went on to sell their property with us, moved to their dream home and became part of a new community. The move really changed their lives. New friends, a new interest in gardening and an exciting time which continues to this day. In their own words; “We have to pinch ourselves every day that it all actually happened.” It could have been a huge coincidence they were stood outside our office that day, maybe luck or even fate. Whatever you call it one thing is for sure, without our estate agents offices being situated right in the heart of the town centre and part of the local community, I'm convinced that

Mr and Mrs Entwistle would still be living in their old house some 28 years later. The next time someone says 'the High Street is dying' or 'houses just sell by sticking them on the internet' remember, it’s more than just a process. Buying a house is about wanting a place to live; a place to live is often about wanting to be part of a community and it’s a community that keeps the High Street alive and shops open. Your local High Street estate agent should know all about this. So next time you're in your local town, pop in and talk to them about your next home move.'But I'm not moving home.' I hear you say... how do you know!? Richard Morris MNAEA is Managing Director of Hartleys Estate Agents with over 30 offices across the midlands as part of the Newton Fallowell Group. For comments, Questions or Feedback email richard@hartleys-ea.co.uk or call him direct on 07771 865061

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| 55 | 02/03/2016 17:51

DELIVERING DELIVERING KITCHEN KITCHEN & & BATHROOM BATHROOM HEAVEN… HEAVEN… SINCE SINCE 1911 1911 KITCHENS || BATHROOMS || CONSTRUCTION KITCHENS BATHROOMS CONSTRUCTION FROM SUPPLY ONLY – THROUGH TO FULL PROJECT MANAGEMENT FROM SUPPLY ONLY – THROUGH TO FULL PROJECT MANAGEMENT

7-11 WELFORD RD • BLABY • LEICESTER • LE8 4FT 7-11 WELFORD RD • BLABY • LEICESTER • LE8 4FT

WWW.OAKLAND -LEICESTER.CO.UK WWW.OAKLAND INFO@OAKLAND--LEICESTER.CO.UK LEICESTER.CO.UK TEL 0116 277 2252 -LEICESTER.CO.UK INFO@OAKLAND TEL 0116 277 2252 -FRI 9-5 SAT - BY APPOINTMENT SHOWROOM MON ONLY SHOWROOM MON-FRI 9-5 SAT - BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

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02/03/2016 16/02/2016 17:53 11:27

SPECIAL FEATURE |

OPEN PLAN LIVING SPACES ARE BEING CITED AS ONE OF THE BIGGEST INFLUENCERS IN CONTEMPORARY KITCHEN DESIGN, ACCORDING TO OAKLANDS. THE LEICESTERSHIRE FIRM, WHICH HAS BEEN CREATING BESPOKE KITCHENS – AND NOW BEDROOMS AND BATHROOMS – LAUNCHED IN 1911 AND HAS SEEN THE IMPACT OF OPEN PLAN LIVING PLAY A HUGE PART IN HOW WE WANT OUR KITCHEN SPACES TO WORK AND LOOK

OPEN TO INFLUENCE INTEGRATED KITCHEN-LIVING SPACES

WALK IN PANTRY

Often our kitchen space can feel disconnected from the rest of the home. Integrating the kitchen with the home’s main living area can help to keep everyone together, making the space the heart of the home. Changes in our social and cultural lives see many viewing the kitchen as a family meeting place where they can catch up, watch television and even work.

Because the modern kitchen is so multi-functional, one of the hottest trends is the walk-in pantry, as seen on TV. This keeps the inevitable kitchen clutter out of sight of the main living area and provides additional storage. Some of our walk-in pantries even boast a scaled-down duplication of the main kitchen; ideal for catering of major dinner parties in your home.

“Today, the kitchen is the hub of the house; it needs to perform in ways that were unimaginable to previous generations. The kitchen needs to be beautiful, but most importantly, smart” says James Oakland, Managing Director.

ISLAND WORKSTATIONS

Though the kitchen was once a separate room, possibly accessible from a dining area, we are now being drawn towards incorporating an open living space into this area giving the whole room an airy, bright and contemporary feel where families can cook, eat and relax. The rise of entertainment spaces and the upsurge in technical innovations has fuelled demand for the latest gadgets such as barista style coffee machines, steam ovens, boiling water taps and Smart Spaces for hidden charging of tech devices. The working kitchen now benefits from equipment that was once only seen in the domain of the professional, although these gadgets must be either beautiful or out of sight.

An island workstation may be incorporated, helping to separate the space, whilst transitioning seamlessly into eating and lounging areas. Use space wisely and choose this year’s key colour palettes of muted charcoals and pastel shades of soft green and pale blue. Consider a skylight to flood the space with natural light, improving the aesthetics of the room and bringing in another layer of light to showcase your design.

MAGNIFICENT METALLICS This year will continue to see the theme of metallic finishes with warmer metals such as copper, brass, bronze and rose gold running through the designs in small areas such as taps and pendant lights. For those who are a little bolder you could consider introducing more of this raw texture in areas like the extractor, giving a bold contrast to neutral colour tones.

Islington Dark Oak, Credit: Mereways

Oaklands, Welford Road, Blaby, Leicestershire, LE8 4FT | Tel 0116 277 2252 | www.oakland-leicester.co.uk

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| 57 | 03/03/2016 12:20

The Light House HASSALL & SON LTD EST 1963 HASSALL & SON LTD Building & Roofing Contractors EST 1963

Tel Quorn 01509 412446

LIGHTING DESIGN SERVICE AVAILABLE

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• Re-roofing & &Tiling •• Slating Re-roofing Flat Roof (Swithland Replacementslates) & •• House Slating &pointing Tiling Chimney rebuilding (Swithland slates) •• Guttering House Pointing & Chimney&Rebuilding • Soffits Fascias

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107 A/B Hinckley Road, Leicester, LE3 OTD www.lighthouse-leicester.co.uk | sales@lighthouse-leicester.co.uk 0116 233 0303 | Mon - Sat 9-5 • Sun 11-4

• • Extensions & Alterations • General building repairs • Small building work •

Guttering Soffits & Fascias Extensions & Alterations General Building Repairs Small Buidling Work Projects

projects • Flat roof replacement Contact Chris Hassall on mob: 07803135382 or Chris call 01509 412446 Contact Hassall © SVL 17 The Pingle, Quorn, LE12 8FQ Mobile: 0780 3135382 www.h a s s a lla n d s o n ltd .c o. uk www.hassallandsonltd.co.uk

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Here for you when it’s time to move... 01530 811593 Solicitors

Lutterworth: 01455 554466 Hinckley: 01455 637815 Email: enquiries@headleys.com www.headleys.com

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beautifully designed w expertly fitted Showroom Open 9am-5pm Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm Sat Brunel Way, Stephenson Ind Est, Coalville, LE67 3HF

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03/03/2016 12:49

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www.centrickproperty.co.uk

highlighting local luxury

| 59 | 03/03/2016 12:49

BASKETS

Hanging

| HOME & GARDEN

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02/03/2016 17:56

AS WE CAN NOW TRULY SAY THAT WINTER HAS FINISHED, AND THE DAYS ARE BECOMING LONGER, WITHOUT THOSE DISMAL DARK MORNINGS AND EVENINGS, WE CAN START TO THINK ABOUT THE GARDEN ONCE AGAIN, SAYS GOSCOTE’S GARDENING EXPERT FRANCES HUNT

lthough there is still a risk of frost, right through to May, let’s be positive; there are endless plants and flowers shooting in the garden, and it really does feel like the beginning of the season. Daffodils are just finishing, and tulips are beginning to emerge, but how can we give our garden the wow factor once these early spring flushes of colour are over? Whilst permanent garden plants such as perennials and flowering shrubs are fantastic at providing that long term colour and structure within the beds of our gardens themselves, there are ways that we can really spice up the patio area with minimal effort, and maximum gain. Using hanging baskets and patio tubs and troughs really does create that ‘wow’ factor that can be enjoyed right through the summer. Do remember, the plants that are used in baskets are annuals, i.e. they will only last one season, which explains why they are so fantastically full of flower during that time. Remember also, they are not frost hardy, so will need protection during cold nights right the way through until May. There are ways to ‘think outside the box’ with patio pots; why not pop to your local car boot sale and pick up an old iron bath tub or watering can to fill with plants? Dolly tubs, or washing tubs seem to be the ‘in’ container of the moment, keep your eyes peeled for these as they are fantastic to fill with seasonal colour.

The first thing to note about creating a display using hanging baskets and troughs is this: there is no such thing as ‘too colourful’, or ‘clashing’! Leave your taste at home, and embrace those tropical hues for a riot of colour. You can use the serene pale pinks, purples and white in the rest of the garden! Here are my tips for creating the perfect hanging basket: 1.

If you are using a pre-lined basket, make sure that you make some drainage holes through the plastic. If using

a wire basket, you will need to line before planting. I recommend moss lining, which is natural looking, and lets through excess water. Once you have lined the basket from the inside with moss, place a 6” plastic disc at the bottom for water retention (you can cut this out of an old compost bag). Use a good quality multipurpose compost, adding Swell Gell (a wetting agent) and Osmocote (a slow release plant feed) to ensure that the basket looks great throughout the season. Pack the compost in, pressing into the sides first, then filling to 2” from the top of the basket. 2.

Now for the fun bit, planting! Start in the centre of the basket with an upright plant, geranium or fuchsia work well. There are a huge amount of different colours available, but do look out for the deep red leaved geraniums for some foliage contrast.

Next step is to create the next ‘tier’ of plants, making sure that you leave 4-6” around the edge of the basket for the trailing plants. Try plants such as French marigolds, upright petunia, salvia, buzy lizzies and upright verbena. If you like, you can make the basket colour themed, e.g. in ‘hot’ colours, or pastel colours.

Finally, we come to the trailing plants. It is worth noting that it’s not necessary to plant through the sides of the basket, the trailing plants soon grow down and cover the whole basket anyway! Look out especially for Surfinia (trailing petunia), and Million Bells- both of these plants have eye-catching trumpet shaped flowers. Also worth including are trailing fuchsias such as La Campanella (white and purple), Marinka (red), or Pink Galore (guess what…pink). Trailing begonias are also worth looking at as they have interesting foliage as well as masses of flowers; there are some gorgeous apricot shades out there at the moment. Other trailing plants to include are, trailing geraniums, Becopa, Brachycoma, and trailing verbena. Make sure that you also add some interesting trailing foliage plants, such as Helichrysum (with rounded silver foliage), Lysimachia Goldii, Nepeta Variegata (lovely white edged leaves). Any gaps that you have between your trailing plants, fill in with lobelia, which come in a huge variety of colours.

If you just don’t fancy creating your own hanging basket, remember that many places do sell ‘ready made’ baskets too. Pop in and speak to Tony at the nursery if you have your own baskets that you’d like us to fill for you. For any further questions, or to discuss any of the plants mentioned, please call Goscote Nurseries on 01509 812 121 or email sales@goscote.co.uk

For any questions on the plants mentioned, or to speak to an expert

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01509 812 121 or

frances@goscote.co.uk

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Goscote Nurseries pride ourselves on quality plants and expert, friendly advice; specialising in rare and unusual plants. BUT there is more to us than plants, we are now pleased to be stockists for Hugâ&#x2122;ĽRug, 100% recycled barrier mats, manufactured here in the UK. We also welcome Stovey Contemporary Log burning Stoves to the nursery, come and pull up a chair next to our log burner and see how well it burns!

Norths Deli at The Tea Garden Situated within the grounds of Goscote Nurseries, pop down and enjoy hand-made cakes and delicious patisserie made by Dominic and his team of chefs, along with soups, sandwiches, salads, paninis and quiches for a light lunch. Winter specials such as jacket potatoes, casseroles, and pasta dishes are now served to warm the cockles on a chilly day.

Goscote Design Practice Our award winning design and build landscape teams have been producing gardens for nearly 50 years. As members of the Association of Professional Landscapers, you can rely on us to create your dream garden, from design to completion.

Goscote Nurseries, Syston Road, Cossington, Leicestershire, LE7 4UZ | 62 |

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Nursery 01509 812 121 Cafe 01509 814 231 www.goscote.co.uk thebeaconmagazine.co.uk

02/03/2016 01/03/2016 16:10 20:58

HOME & GARDEN |

IS THE GRASS ALWAYS LOOKING GREENER ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE FENCE? SPRING IS THE TIME TO START GETTING YOUR LAWN IN SHAPE FOR SUMMER ENTREPRENEURIAL GARDENER JOSEPH PAGE LOOKS AT WHAT IS NECESSARY TO GIVE YOUR LAWN AN ALL-IMPORTANT KICK-START…

T g Sprin

raditionally, English gardens were laid out with large expanses of lawn with an abundance of staff to maintain them. Although the staff may have vanished, our lawns are still our pride and joy and a feature of many gardens.

into

ACTION

To get the very best out of your lawn this summer there are a number of routine, but essential, turf maintenance activities that must be carried out.

FEEDING

Like other plants, grass requires nutrients in order to grow vigorously and maintain health. Grass benefits greatly from regular feeding, at the very least a good spring-grade fertiliser should be applied containing a relatively high level of nitrogen with potassium and phosphate. Good lawn care fertilisation is about the correct balance of nutrients to promote lush growth, and lots of hard work mowing! Joe’s use professional Lawn Care products that are more effective than a DIY product, and apply them for you at a price cheaper than if you had bought and applied them yourself.

MOSS CONTROL Moss will establish particularly well where a lawn is thin and in poor condition so a strong healthy turf is the best answer. It is important to realise that moss is a symptom of poor grass growth and not the cause of it! To get rid of moss, apply a high iron content spring fertiliser. If in any doubt Joe’s apply a moss control as part of our Spring treatments.

SPRING SCARIFICATION & AERATION The build-up of dead organic matter in a lawn prevents water and air from getting through to the roots and is probably the single most significant problem affecting lawns that have been neglected. • Scarification is the process that removes this thatch. Small lawns can be scarified by hand raking, but for larger areas mechanical scarification is far more effective! • Aeration is the process of punching holes through any sub surface thatch to relieve compaction, allowing water and nutrients to pass into the root zone. This also leads to improved drainage by allowing water to penetrate the thatch layer, which discourages moss and disease. If you would like some further advice or to request a FREE Lawn Survey contact Joe’s Lawn Care. We can help with all your seasonal lawn care needs.

Joseph’s experience stems from working with leading garden brands and garden centre retailers.

Cropston House Farm, Cropston, Leicestershire, LE7 7GE www.joeslawncare.co.uk I info@joeslawncare.co.uk I 0116 318 4189

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splashout

Landscape Design and Construction

HOT TUBS

01530 811593

Covering all aspects of landscape construction from the planning and planting of a single border to the completion of major schemes both 'hard' and soft, including design, costing and project management.

hot tubs w swim spas w servicing Finance available Splashout Bathrooms Showroom Open 9am-5pm Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm Sat Brunel Way, Stephenson Ind Est, Coalville, LE67 3HF

Hollies House, 52 Main Street, Woodthorpe, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE12 8UG

www.splashouthottubs.co.uk

E: hortus@talktalk.net T: 01509 211424 | 07917 540177

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03/03/2016 12:50

HOME & GARDEN |

ALTHOUGH MANY OF US LOVE TO SEE A BEAUTIFUL GARDEN, CREATING AN OUTDOOR HAVEN OF TRANQUILLITY AND VIBRANT COLOUR CAN TRULY BE AN ART FORM. THE FLOWER HOUSE’S, KIM SUTHERLAND HAS BEEN DESIGNING GARDENS SINCE 1996, SO ENLISTING THE HELP OF AN EXPERIENCED EXPERT CAN DEFINITELY BE THE ANSWER – WE DISCOVER WHAT INITIALLY DROVE KIM’S HORTICULTURAL DESIRE AND WHAT CONTINUES TO INSPIRE HER LOVE FOR HER WORK

Blooming MARVELLOUS! “Initially, I read English and Politics at University but found myself ill-suited to political journalism and returned from London to the parental home and a much neglected garden. Instinctively, I started to renovate and clear, move plants around and create new associations. I made mistakes and lost all the bulbs that first year to rampant squirrels but found a whole new lease of life in gardening. I unearthed a compulsion to be outside from dawn till dusk, up and out at first light as if new plants could grow overnight. Neighbours started to call and ask if I’d take a look at their plot, word spread, birds sang and all was right with the world. I went on to train in horticulture at Brooksby College in Melton and in garden design at Chelsea Physic Garden in London. Nowadays, I teach small, informal classes at Wistow Gallery, offer a consultation service, design, plant and write a blog on all things gardening. I endeavour to promote horticulture in all its guises,

highlighting the therapeutic benefits for individuals and communities, the aesthetics of greening city spaces and the importance of reconnecting children with nature and the rhythms of the seasons.

Fundamentally, all gardens require structure. This is my ethos and very often why designers are called in. Failing to plan is tantamount to skipping a stage and choosing the wallpaper before you have decided on the layout of the house. The whole thing falls flat on the floor. Designers create the framework by weaving the demands of the site with client requirements, balancing spaces and creating mood with foliage, scent and colour. It’s smoke and mirrors to some degree but good planning allows nature herself to shine and provide a bit of magic in our own backyards. Who knew that a spell of gardening could be so beguiling…?” 07855 402973 | www.flowerhousedesign.co.uk

Est. 1996

Bespoke Garden Design, Consultation and Planting

Enchanting Gardens Design & Planting Classes Available at Wistow Gallery *See web for details Other Services: School site development, Ecology & Consultation

CHELSEA TRAINED Award Winning Designer & Plantsperson

07855 402973 | kim@flowerhousedesign.co.uk Based in Kibworth Beauchamp

www.flowerhousedesign.co.uk

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| HOME & GARDEN JPR-705-74621-Leics-East-from15-PRINT-A4.pdf

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05/02/2016

12:27

thebeaconmagazine.co.uk

02/03/2016 18:00

ESTABLISHED FOR 30 YEARS GREENTHUMB ARE THE UK’S LARGEST AND MOST RECOMMENDED LAWN CARE SERVICE - AND WITH TAILORED TREATMENTS, YOUR LAWN WILL BE LUSH, GREEN AND WEED FREE IN NO TIME

LAWN & ORDER GreenThumb have been operating in Leicestershire for 16 years, Kevin Toomey looking after the east of the county and Michelle and Martin Williams looking after the west.

SPRING LAWN CARE TIPS: • •

Between the two branches, GreenThumb look after some 15,000 customers who receive regular visits from highly trained and friendly operatives applying seasonal treatments to their lawns.

•

Prices start from only £15 per treatment. New customers are surprised at how little GreenThumb lawn treatments cost – often less than treating the lawn themselves.

• • •

Most customers are now opting for lawn treatment programmes, payable by monthly direct debit. These programmes offer greater service and flexibility which rivals are unable to provide. The Enhanced Programme starts from as little as £11.25 per month.

•

• The British weather will remain unpredictable, but what we can say for sure is that many lawns will be ready for some TLC come the spring. After a winter of mixed weather, lawns will soon start to look yellow, sparse and very mossy. GreenThumb’s treatments will provide the lush, green, weed-free lawn that you have always wanted.

Make sure that your mower has been serviced and the blades are sharp, to avoid tearing or bruising the grass. When you give your lawn the first cut of the season – aim to remove only the top third of growth. Remove too much all in one go and the grass will look very yellow. When the grass growing season is properly underway, mow the lawn at least once a week. NEVER cut the grass shorter than one inch. Apply a spring blend, nitrogen rich feed to the lawns. Spray weeds with a product which is recommended for use on grass – some weedkillers will get rid of everything – including your lawn! Use a half-moon edging iron or straight spade to smarten up the edges of the lawn. This will also help prevent grass spreading into borders. If we get a dry spell of weather, remember, the grass will benefit from being watered.

If you would like GreenThumb to help you achieve a lawn to be proud of, then why not contact them for a no-obligation, FREE lawn analysis and quote.

Call: 0800 0111 222 or visit the website to see which branch covers your address: www.greenthumb.co.uk

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| FOOD & DRINK

AS EASTER APPROACHES, ALL THOUGHTS IMMEDIATELY TURN TO CHOCOLATE EGGS – BUT EGGS IN GENERAL, ARE AN EXCELLENT SOURCE OF PROTEIN, VITAMIN D AND ESSENTIAL AMINO ACIDS, WHICH ALL HELP TO ENSURE WE MAINTAIN A HEALTHY BALANCED DIET, SO THIS ISSUE WE ASKED ANISHA MISTRY TO SHARE SOME OF HER FAVOURITE RECIPES TO SHOWCASE THIS HUGELY VERSATILE PRODUCT

EGGSTACULAR We should all aim to cut down on fat, so a healthier option is to have a poached or boiled egg rather than a fried one, but remember having a well-balanced diet doesn’t necessarily mean you have to cut out treats altogether, such as meringues or frittatas. Here are my top tips to help you create some delicious dishes and master the perfect egg recipes.

The Perfect Poached Egg

TOP TIPS •

Although they have a reputation for being difficult, they are actually quick and easy to prepare if you have the confidence, so don’t be intimidated! Don’t feel challenged with a pot of boiling water and a raw egg, making a poached egg is easier than you think, so let me show you how.

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Use the freshest of eggs. The older the eggs get the looser the weaker the egg whites become. Only poach the egg in a few inches of water, this will prevent the egg from bobbing around. Make sure you heat the water to a rapid simmer and quickly reduce to a fast simmer once the eggs are added. This will prevent the egg from tearing. Adding a splash of vinegar will help set the protein more quickly when poaching.

UDON SOUP WITH CHINESE CABBAGE AND POACHED EGG SERVES 2

Credit: Anisha Mistry

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1 ½ litres vegetable stock 2 large eggs 2 whole star anise 1 whole cinnamon stick 2 bay leaves 2 cloves 70-80g udon noodles 4 large Chinese cabbage leaves, sliced into ribbons

• 2 wild garlic stalks, thinly sliced • 2 spring onions, thinly sliced • 3 tbs soy sauce • A generous sprinkling of Shichimi Togarashi (red pepper mix)

1 In a deep saucepan bring the vegetable stock to boil. 2 Once boiling add the bay leaves, cloves, star anise and cinnamon stick and continue to simmer for a further 5-7 minutes. 3 Meanwhile, in a large saucepan bring water to boil and submerge the udon noodles, cook as per the packet instructions. Once cooked, rinse in cold water and set aside. 4 Once the spices have generously infused into the stock, remove them using a slotted spoon. 5 Carefully crack the eggs into separate cups and gently slip them one by one into the simmering stock. 6 Cook for 2 minutes and add the cooked udon noodles and cabbage leaves, carefully stir and submerge into the stock. (taking care not to break the eggs) 7 Continue to cook for a further 2 minutes until the egg whites are perfectly set. 8 Switch off the heat and stir in the soy sauce and the wild garlic. Serve into deep bowls and sprinkle with spring onions and Shichimi Togarashi and enjoy warm.

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02/03/2016 18:02

The Perfect Boiled Egg

• Bring water to a rapid-rolling boil then reduce to a rapid simmer. • Gently lower the eggs with a spoon, one at a time. • Cook for 5-7 minutesa (dependant on yolk preference). • Remove the eggs with a slotted spoon and run under a cold tap for about 45 seconds.

Credit: Anisha Mistry

Making soft-boiled eggs is nothing that can't be mastered in the space of an early morning, but timing is everything! 5 minutes is perfect for a runny yolk and 7 minutes for a firmly set yolk. Using a timer is the only way to get consistent results, never glance at your clock!

TOP TIPS

FENNEL, BEETROOT, SEARED ASPARAGUS AND LAMBS LETTUCE SALAD WITH SOFT BOILED EGGS, WALNUTS AND A DIJON-CIDER VINAIGRETTE DRESSING • 1 small fennel bulb with feathery leaves attached, finely sliced • A large handful of lamb’s lettuce • 1 small beetroot bulb, cut into shavings or finely sliced • Juice from ¼ lemon • A handful of fresh asparagus • A small handful of walnuts • 2 large eggs • Small handful fresh dill, torn • Freshly ground balsamic sea salt and black pepper

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Ingredients for the Dressing: • 2 tbs extra virgin olive oil • 1 tsp dijon mustard • 1 tsp cider vinegar

1 Place the lamb’s lettuce into a large salad bowl and add the sliced fennel and beetroot. Retain the feathery fennel leaves for garnishing. 2 Bring a pot of water to boiling and reduce to a rapid simmer. 3 Carefully add the eggs and simmer for 5-7 minutes. 4 Meanwhile gently bend the end of each asparagus spear until it snaps naturally and blanch the asparagus in cold water. Using a frying pan cook the asparagus for 2-4 minutes until bright green and set aside. 5 Next make the dressing; combine all ingredients in a small serving jug and whisk together. 6 When eggs are ready, rinse under cold water, peel and set aside. 7 Add the walnuts and asparagus to the salad and toss everything together along with the vinaigrette dressing. Add the fennel leaves and season with salt and pepper. Slice the eggs in half and add to the salad and let the yolk spill over the crunchy, crisp salad.

highlighting local luxury

| 69 | 02/03/2016 18:02

| FOOD & DRINK

The Perfect Frittata

TOP TIPS

A great frittata is one of the world’s most perfect and tastiest foods. It’s cheap, quick and an ideal leftover. The perfect frittata should retain the texture of custard: wobbly, barely set but with a tanned top. In contrast an over-baked frittata will have all the textural appeal of a set quiche with a golden brown top. With a good quality skillet and fresh eggs…baked goodness is awaiting.

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Credit: Anisha Mistry

•

A generous dollop of dairy—full fat and nothing less, whole milk, sour cream, yoghurt, or crème fraiche are all great options. Don’t underestimate the egg-dairy ratio; for every halfdozen eggs use a quarter cup of dairy. Using the right skillet goes a long way. Whatever oven-safe pan you choose, be conscious of how well it conducts heat. A heavy cast-iron pan will retain heat so be sure to pull it from the oven before it’s completely finished. Fully cook (most) ingredients. Sauté “wet” ingredients such as mushrooms, tomatoes and courgettes in a separate pan as these can water down your eggs. Remember to season the eggs with salt and pepper before adding them to the pan. Take time to choose the softest cheese. Select cheeses with a wonderful melting quality, such as cheddar, gruyere, fontina and certain types of emmental.

SMOKED CHORIZO AND TENDERSTEM BROCCOLI FRITTATA WITH ROCKET SALAD SERVES 4 • • • • • • • •

6 large eggs ¼ cup whole milk 100g grated emmental, divided Smoked sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 2 tbs olive oil 70-80g smoked Spanish chorizo, casings removed 100g tenderstem broccoli, coarsely chopped Small handful of rocket salad leaves

01163 18 39 14

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1 Preheat the oven to 190°C. 2 In a separate bowl whisk the eggs and milk. Mix in 50g of emmental cheese, season with smoked seal salt and pepper and set aside. 3 Heat the oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat and crumble in the chorizo, cooking for 5 minutes until brown, stirring occasionally. 4 Add the broccoli, season with salt and pepper and cook for a further 8–10 minutes until tender. 5 Reduce the heat and pour the egg mixture over vegetables, cooking for 10-12 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally, until edges are just about to set. 6 Top the frittata with remaining cheese, place in the oven and cook for a further 4-5 minutes until the top is a pale golden and centre is just set. 7 Slice the frittata into portions and serve warm. anishamistry.co.uk

@ANISHARMISTRY

/Anisha-Mistry-Food-Spice-Lifestyle

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01/03/2016

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5 Church Square, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, LE16 7NB Tel: 01858 464025 www. hobbsfishmongers.co.uk email: jenny@hobbsfishmongers.co.uk

highlighting local luxury

| 71 | 02/03/2016 16:10

| FOOD & DRINK

吀椀挀欀攀琀猀渀挀攀搀愀搀瘀愀

爀 ꌀ㠀攀搀漀漀栀琀渀漀 ꌀ㄀ ᤠ猀䘀刀䔀䔀㄀爀攀唀渀搀

䜀爀攀愀琀䘀漀漀搀愀渀搀䐀爀椀渀欀䘀攀猀琀椀瘀愀氀

倀爀攀猀琀眀漀氀搀䠀愀氀氀䄀瀀爀椀氀㌀琀栀Ⰰ 䴀愀礀㄀猀琀 ☀ ㈀渀搀㄀愀洀琀椀氀氀㔀瀀洀

䨀攀愀渀䌀栀爀椀猀琀漀瀀栀攀一漀瘀攀氀氀椀Ⰰ 䄀氀搀漀娀椀氀氀椀Ⰰ 䴀愀爀挀甀猀䈀攀愀渀瀀氀甀猀洀愀渀礀洀漀爀攀⸀ 䠀甀渀搀爀攀搀猀漀昀猀琀愀氀氀猀 ⴀ 䘀漀漀搀愀渀搀䐀爀椀渀欀 ⴀ 䌀攀氀攀戀爀椀琀礀䌀栀攀昀猀刀攀愀氀䄀氀攀猀 ⴀ 䌀栀椀氀搀爀攀渀猀䈀愀欀椀渀最挀氀愀猀猀攀猀 ⴀ 䴀愀猀琀攀爀挀氀愀猀猀攀猀䰀椀瘀攀洀甀猀椀挀 ⴀ 䘀愀洀椀氀礀䔀渀琀攀爀琀愀椀渀洀攀渀琀

眀眀眀⸀最爀攀愀琀昀漀漀搀愀渀搀搀爀椀渀欀昀攀猀琀椀瘀愀氀猀⸀挀漀⸀甀欀

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02/03/2016 18:09

FOOD & DRINK |

Prestwold Hall

WELCOMES THE GREAT FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL

渀

he Great Food and Drink Festival will be heading to Prestwold Hall over the May Day Bank Holiday (30th April-2nd May). The event which had over 10,000 people attend both Nottingham Castle and Newstead Abbey in 2015 in Nottinghamshire, have now taken the shows into Leicestershire and Derbyshire.

Celebrity chef, Jean-Christophe Novelli, is just one of the chefs taking part in cooking demos over the weekend. Novelli will do three cooking demonstrations on the Saturday (30th) of the event and will be joined by two more celebrity chefs, Aldo Zilli (1st) and Marcus Bean (2nd).

There will be a vast variety of food, drink, crafts and entertainment for all ages to enjoy at the incredibly beautiful grounds of Prestwold Hall for the festival. With a range of live music thrown in on each day which is performed by fantastic local talent, there certainly is something for everyone. With a multitude of rides, soft play area, Punch and Judy shows and a whole lot more, even the little ones will have a fantastic day out! With over a hundred stalls set to be at Prestwold Hall, you will not be disappointed in the variation, diversity and tastes that you’ll be able to acquire. There will be stalls from Mister V, Nachos Amigos, I Love Ostrich and a lot more including a range of artisan crafts. If you’d like to know more about The Great Food and Drink Festival go to www.greatfoodanddrinkfestivals.co.uk where you’ll be able to see more on the chefs, exhibitors and live music acts!

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ENTER TO

WIN!

WIN 1 OF 5 FAMILY PASSES We are offering readers the opportunity to win one of five family passes* that will give the lucky winners access to one of the three days at the event. Simply answer this question for your chance to be a winner: Who is the other half of Punch in the puppet show at the event? *(Tickets allow entry for 2 adults & 4 children)

Tickets are now on sale at greatfoodanddrinkfestival.gigantic.com/great-foodand-drink-festival-tickets TO ENTER: Simply visit www.thebeaconmagazine.co.uk and select the competitions page. Subject to Terms & Conditions. All entries must be received by the 15th April 2016.

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| MOTORS

WHEN IT COMES TO LUXURY IN A SPACIOUS AND DYNAMIC PACKAGE, FIVE GENERATIONS OF 7 SERIES BMW HAVE DELIVERED IMPOSING AND ELEGANT MODELS TO SATISFY THE MOST DEMANDING OWNERS. NOW THERE IS AN ALL-NEW SIXTH GENERATION AND WITH THE COMPETITION STAKES HIGHER THAN EVER, ANDY WRIGHT ASKS, CAN IT STILL APPEAL TO THE DRIVER WHO WANTS IT ALL?

A Class Unto Itself

efore investigating the extensive technology on board or poring over the specifications, it is clear the new 7 has shifted its position – very subtly, in the marketplace. The message it transmits is one of understatement and sophistication. Gone are the flash chrome finishers on the front wings; there is just a quiet hockey stick-shaped trim line above the sill to break up the car’s length. Chrome embellishment is kept to a minimum at the rear and the tighter body sculpting gives the new car a more compact profile. We might almost say modest. BMW may be known for its no-nonsense interiors but the new 7 Series combines recognisable BMW design values with the highest levels of luxury. The supple, quilted Nappa leather envelops passengers and the exquisite switchgear detailing befits this premium car. The extended wheelbase model adds 14cm to the length (five and a quarter metres overall) delivering considerable space in the rear: perfect for relaxed drives or as a mobile office. For all its aesthetic and tactile qualities, this 7 is all about tech, boasting equipment and options for seemingly all eventualities. There is gesture control: hover a hand slightly above the gear selector and predefined movements will perform functions such as launching applications, changing the volume or setting the sat-nav for home. It works surprisingly well. At the heart is ConnectedDrive, with a whole host of functionality from

editor@motorwriter.com

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media streaming on the go to talking with one’s house. The BMW Laserlight LED headlamp option promises to double the depth of visibility at night. Boasting one of the largest car keys on the market, the ‘display key’ shows car data and an option even allows the driver to move the vehicle short distances remotely. At the core of the 7 Series is drivability and the new model is an absolute delight. All models are fitted with characterful straight-six engines (a V12 is due later this year) and the 730Ld on test is a pleasure to pilot. For a relaxed ride, setting the self-levelling air suspension to Comfort Plus mode irons out even the smallest of imperfections on the road surface. Picking the Sport mode really brings the car to life and its stronger, lighter body gives the driver confidence to enjoy the dynamics with exceptional feel through the steering wheel and fine throttle response. Even the long wheelbase has impeccable road manners and the dynamics are those of a car with distinctly smaller proportions. The new 7 Series BMW is a fine achievement. Whether it is up to a car to check for activated smoke alarms (and track family members to see who’s home) is debatable. However, pared back to its essentials for driving pleasure and opulence, it delivers in a most pleasing and deferential manner. The all-new BMW 7 Series, from £64,530

motorwriter.com

@theMotorWriter

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02/03/2016 18:00

ADVERTORIAL |

WITH ENVIRONMENTAL PRICES STEADILY RISING, NICK CVETKOVIC, A HOMEOWNER FROM MARKET BOSWORTH MADE THE DECISION TO BUILD HIMSELF AN ENERGY EFFICIENT PROPERTY

Opening the Door to

ENERGY EFFICIENT LIVING Mr Cvetkovic was keen to move away from the stereotypical British brick house and take a more contemporary approach with his home’s design. He opted for nontraditional materials, such as western red cedar timber and slate cladding for the external walls and a steel roof. To make the most of the fantastic views over open countryside, Nick incorporated very slim profile glazing to create unbroken views. However, aesthetics were not Nick’s only priority. In order to meet the desired insulation standards and U-values, building materials and components all had to be carefully considered during planning to maximise the property’s efficiency. Contrary to popular belief, three times the amount of heat is actually lost to infiltration and air leakage than through walls and ceilings. To successfully seal his home, Nick had to verify that every component selected for the build would have a highly insulated, airtight composition.

the new integral garage. Offering one of the best U-values on the market, this door benefits from a 42mm-thick polyurethane infill and includes seals on all four sides. Thanks to the wide selection of colours and finishes available, Nick was able to select a style that fitted in perfectly with the contemporary look of his new home. The ThermoPro steel door was suggested for the property’s entrance door. Offering an excellent UD-value, i.e. the U-value of the fitted door, of just 1.1 W/(m2.K) and benefitting from a 46mm rigid steel polyurethane-filled door leaf, Hörmann’s ThermoPro was the perfect solution for Nick’s energy-efficient home. Three further external doors were also needed, all of which required larger openings than usual. As Hörmann produces doors that are available in a wide selection of standard and special sizes, this was not an issue. Mr Cvetkovic commented: “The doors are highly efficient and fit in perfectly with the style of our home, we’re very pleased with the end result.”

As the property’s doors could impact on this significantly, Nick approached garage door experts Doorfit Products, who recommended leading manufacturer Hörmann.

The external work on the property was completed in December 2015 with just landscaping and internal work left to complete. Nick and his wife Susie are both looking forward to settling in and making the most of their new low energy home.

Hörmann’s insulated sectional door seemed the ideal choice for

If you’d like to know more about how Hörmann doors could improve your house, visit www.hormann.co.uk

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| TRAVEL

LOST ADVENTURES What do you think influenced your choice of career? Definitely growing up on the Isle of Mull was a big influence – for two quite opposite reasons. Mull offered freedom and a sense of wilderness, but being an island it was claustrophobic and limited in what it had to offer to someone with an adventurous spirit.

I did when I was a boy, but to be honest it was a difficult one to make. Our daughter was born that year and I was working from home for the first time. To be a successful filmmaker you need 100% commitment, to be a successful father you need to 100% commitment. It was a year that I felt very torn.

What has been your highest point of your career so far? For a job that is continually so rewarding it is actually quite hard to pick one high point. Maybe getting through to the finals of Jackson Hole for cinematography for “Tigers of the Emerald Forest”. Didn’t win, so that high point was short lived.

What's the most important thing you've learnt during your time as a cameraman and presenter, so far? Work hard, follow your nose, trust your instincts and good things will come in life and in the wild.

'Eagle Island' was a very successful film, was it your favourite film you have worked on? In some ways it was great to be back on Mull roaming around as

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Credit: Gordan Buchannan

WITH 20 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE OF TRAVELLING ACROSS THE GLOBE, GORDON BUCHANNAN HAS A REPUTATION FOR RELISHING DANGEROUS AND TOUGH ASSIGNMENTS – INCLUDING HIS TV SERIES’ THE BEAR FAMILY AND ME, THE POLAR BEAR FAMILY AND ME AND MORE RECENTLY GORILLA FAMILY AND ME. WE CAUGHT UP WITH THE HIGHLY ACCLAIMED CAMERAMAN AND PRESENTER TO TALK ABOUT HIS UNWAVERING PASSION FOR FILMMAKING

If you had to be either a presenter or cameraman which would it be? And why? Cameraman! (but not just a wildlife cameraman). I think that you can convey so much in film making, you can tell a million

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02/03/2016 18:15

different stories and provoke every emotion in a single film. There is so much art in making a great film, and I love every part of it. Presenting it just trying to be all the nice bits of yourself without swearing.

WHICH DO YOU PREFER? 1.

Have you ever missed an amazing filming opportunity? (due to being out of battery/tape/no camera) I’ve seen amazing things happened unexpectedly, too fast to react to, but that comes with the territory so I don’t beat myself up. I messed up pretty enormously one time. Can’t bear to put it in print, I’ll only say that it was one of those once in a life time shots that I was running the camera on – or at least I thought I was running the camera on. I was so excited I hit the button twice, so the camera wasn’t recording….

Filming or presenting? Depends on my mood, but both can be great fun and terribly hard work. I can film without too much mental effort – so with presenting I sometimes don’t like having to hide the fact that I am an absolute idiot.

Wildlife or people? I love the simplicity of animals and the complexity of people.

What’s your record for the longest you have waited for an animal to turn up? Did a couple of 48 (+) hour stints without sleep with finger on the button in Svalbard in the Arctic waiting for Barnacle Geese to jump off their nesting cliff with their young and for Arctic foxes to show up to predate on them. It was mid-summer so it is perpetual daylight. Great for filming, bad for sleeping.

Birds or mammals? I would have said mammals every time a year or so ago, but I am really ‘getting’ and loving birds for the first time ever!

Spring or autumn? I loved autumn last year, as my life last year mirrored the season, but I do love the vitality of spring.

Analogue film or digital tape? Digital is great – given the choice I would never ever go back to shooting on film.

If you were an animal, which would it be? Depends on my mood: A happy dog – stupid but loved! A peregrine - nice to fly and hunt like that. A brown bear in Alaska – great food, great scenery. What has been your closest encounter with a wild animal? I’ve been chased by bears, elephants, tigers and many others, but one of the first and most memorable encounters was in Sierra Leone when I was 17 driving back to camp when seven giant fruit bats escaped from a holding container in the back of the car. They are huge and they flapped and nipped me all the way back to camp. Memorable only really because at the time I was slightly terrified of bats! What’s your favourite animal to film? A hunting leopard takes some beating but any bird in flight is great fun and a challenge to film. What’s your proudest sequence you have filmed? I think I am a better filmmaker each year and am learning all the time. Some stuff that I was really proud of a few years back, I look at now and think it is really badly shot or quite rubbish. So I would have to say something recent. I am most proud of the Russian Tiger film I made – I think that it is the best film I have made so far – by far! Sequence-wise I am really looking forward to seeing the Barnacle geese sequence. We worked really hard to get it and I’m proud of that regardless of how it looks.

Credit: Gordan Buchannan

Finish the sentence ‘Wildlife filmmaking is…’ Nice work if you can get it. Gordon embarks on his UK speaking tour from 22nd March - 7th April. Listen to Gordon’s enthralling adventures, as hosts an evening of exciting personal recollections, and lets you into his world of weird, wild and wonderful wildlife.

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You can see him on the 22nd March 2016 at Loughborough Town Hall 7:30pm-9:30pm Tickets £15 | 01509 231914 For a full list of tour dates and venues please visit www.gordonbuchananwildlife.com

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| 77 | 03/03/2016 12:21

Charnwood Forest Golf Club 2016 Annual Open Day Sunday 17th April 12 noon - 4.30pm

UNIQUE SETTING

BEAUTIFUL FAIRWAYS

SUPERB GREENS

Experienced, new and budding golfers of all ages are welcome to visit Leicestershire’s oldest golf course set among the outstanding beauty of Charnwood Forest. Enjoy course walks or play a few holes Join a group coaching session with Professional Richard Lawrence (1pm: beginners – 3pm: experienced players)

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Breakback Road Woodhouse Eaves, LE11 8TA 01509 890259 www.charnwoodforestgolfclub.com

Aspen House, Kings Head Place, Market Harborough. LE16 7JT ABTA J5552. ATOL 9279.

We’re delighted to announce 'The Dog Parlour' salon will open its doors ~ 11am on Saturday 12th March 2016 at Leicester Rowena, just off the A6 Rothley!

Free Parking • Easily Accessible • Loyalty Discounts Latest Equipment • Fully Qualified Stylists All grooming bookings made in advance between 12th - 18th March 2016 will receive a free goody bag. Here at 'The Dog Parlour' we create a special environment that guarantees all our four legged guests leave our salon as ‘leaders of their pack!’ Extended hours - Monday to Saturday!

To secure your appointment email us at info@thedogparlours.com or call 07340 832 682 Leicester Rowena a Wyevale Garden Centre. Loughborough Road. Rothley. Leicester. LE7 7NL.

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02/03/2016 16:10

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£10 VOUCHER

08/02/2016 02/03/2016 12:12 16:10

Train to be a Family Support Volunteer with Home-Start Charnwood We want every parent to have the support they need to give their child the best start in life

Home-Start Charnwood

Parents supporting Parents… It’s not rocket science is it!  Are you a parent/grandparent?  Can you spare 2-3 hours per week?  Do you want to develop your skills?

And help make stronger, safer families? Our next free training course starts:

Thursday 5th May  Location: Loughborough  Duration: 4 weeks every Thursday 9.30—2.30  Travel expenses will be paid  Please get in touch “Home-Start has been a positively life-changing experience for me”. Home-Start Volunteer

W: www.home-startcharnwood.co.uk E: enquiries@homestartcharnwood.co.uk T: 01509 239786 Charity No: 1108575

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Company No: 5373643

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ALAN SUGAR ISNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T THE ONLY ONE LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT CANDIDATE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; DAVID BANKS, EXPERT IN BUSINESS CONSULTANCY EXPLAINS JUST HOW IMPORTANT LEARNING NEW SKILLS REALLY IS AND WHY BECOME AN APPRENTICE?

S CH O O LS

YOU'RE HIRED!

umerous high profile individuals started their careers with apprenticeships, including celebrity chef Jamie Oliver, fashion guru Stella McCartney and even rock legend Elvis. Although not all of them continued by following their chosen craft, it certainly gave them all a grounding of how a business actually works. I began my working life as an engineering apprentice. I specialised later in design, moving to management and business studies gaining NVQ level 5. I worked through all the appointments in industry and I completed my forty-six year career in engineering as Chairman and Managing Director.

According to Government figures, there were 492,700 apprenticeship starts in England during 2014-15 and the number of apprenticeship starts increased across all age groups, so it just proves, you are never too young, nor too old, to consider one. Overall, successful completion of an apprenticeship brings a list of life-long benefits. Serving an apprenticeship is a valuable alternative to qualifying for a degree. On average, apprenticeships last between 3-4 years, so when the term is completed, the apprentice will become qualified to national and international standards in the subject studied. They will be seen as skilled in their trade and very attractive to employers. Completing an apprenticeship and becoming qualified is a direct route to lifelong fulfilling employment and a career path that can lead to the board room as a Senior Executive.

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Apprenticeships provide in depth training in both the theoretical and practical aspects of the subject. The training is structured over the period and usually planned in conjunction with a recognised training organisation such as SETA (Southampton Engineering Training Association). Aims and objectives are fundamental aspects of the training program which will probably be built around the National Vocational Qualification scheme. NVQ qualifications are widely recognised and continuing training after the end of the apprenticeship can lead to qualification to NVQ level 5 which is equivalent to a degree. Apprentices throughout the training period have the status of employees. They are working for a company, so as employed people they receive wages as any other employee. They do not have to pay tuition fees and therefore do not need expensive student loans that have to be repaid in the future. Also in most cases at the end of their apprenticeship the employer will provide the newly qualified apprentice with a job and encouragement to undertake further training. Apprenticeships are now available in a very wide range of skills. Precision tool making, aero engineering, electricians, plumbers, builders, motor engineers, telecommunications, computer and I.T. Plus there are a range of military apprenticeships as well. The list is virtually endless. So the apprenticeship provides the opportunity to train whilst being paid. It provides excellent employment opportunities once qualified and a path to a lifelong rewarding career.

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Nelsons Solicitors Limited Leicester

one calm voice Nelsons has one of the largest Family Law Departments in Leicester and the independently researched legal directory, Legal 500, recognises our expertise in this area and ranks us as one of the top teams in the East Midlands. Caroline Elliott specialises in family law and has extensive experience of advising on complex, high value divorces and is a respected specialist in this area of law. Caroline also specialises in collaborative law to help couples resolve family issues outside of court where possible. She advises on all aspects of: • Divorce and separation • Pre-nuptial agreements • Mediation

• Financial settlements • Co-habitation disputes

Caroline is a qualified Family Law Mediator and a member of Resolution, which aims to promote fair and conciliatory outcomes. For clear and practical advice at what we know can be a stressful and upsetting time, please contact Caroline Elliott on 0116 214 6655 or email caroline.elliott@nelsonslaw.co.uk Provincial House, 37 New Walk, Leicester LE1 6TU. Car parking available.

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FREEPHONE: 0800 321 3843

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Antique Valuation Day Newtown Linford Village Hall Friday 8th April 10am–3pm By Appointment

OUR VERY FIRST SALE WAS HELD AT NEWTOWN LINFORD VILLAGE HALL OVER 35 YEARS AGO

Come along with your items and get an expert opinion from our Valuation Team.

CELEBRATING

Gildings Auctioneers are visiting Newtown Linford Village Hall on Friday 8th April to hold free valuations open to the public. This event will take place all day from 10am until 3pm. Please contact us to make an appointment prior to visiting. 01858 410414 | sales@gildings.co.uk

gildings auctioneers

MARKET HARBOROUGH SALEROOM THE MILL GREAT BOWDEN ROAD LE16 7DE T: 01858 410414 SALES@GILDINGS.CO.UK

REVISITING WHERE IT ALL BEGAN

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LEGALLY BLONDE AT CUVRE

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TH E ATR E

LUCIE JONES IS NOT ONE TO LET THE GRASS GROW UNDER HER FEET. SINCE HER TIME IN THE X FACTOR SHE’S BEEN ON TOUR, STARRED IN THE WEST END, PRESENTED FOR MTV AND APPEARED IN TV FAVOURITES MIDSOMER MURDERS AND THE SARAH JANE ADVENTURES. NOW SHE’S IN LEICESTER TO TACKLE THE ROLE OF ELLE WOODS IN CURVE’S PRODUCTION OF LEGALLY BLONDE

Legally Blonde the movie was a firm favourite in our house so when the musical came to the West End I couldn't wait to see it. I went to the premiere and fell in love with it so returned a further 3 times to watch the show again. It’s a dream to be part of it! Tell us about Elle… Elle is a popular, loving, intelligent sorority sister who dates the campus' best catch, Warner. She is beautiful both inside and out and a firm believer that "Blonde" is a way of life- not just a hair colour!

How does it feel to be part of Legally Blonde? To be a part of such an incredible show is SO EXCITING! I cannot wait to get in to rehearsals and explore the show! Did you know the film and the show well before you got the part?

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Are you similar in any way to Elle? I have a chihuahua named Radley and I used to cheerlead as a kid, so even though I am a brunette there are a few surface similarities. Elle is a tenacious girl who works hard for what she wants. I am pretty tenacious so I think we have a similar fiery quality! Turning into Elle see’s you transform from brunette to blonde, do you think blondes have more fun?

Oh absolutely not! I’m sure playing Elle and being blonde will be an absolute hoot but I am brunette and have a load of fun! Do you think there are any lessons to learn from Elle as a character? Elle faces a lot of problems throughout her journey in the show. She is criticised, a victim of stereotyping, picked on and attempts to take advantage of her kind nature are not hard to come by. However despite all of this, she stays true to herself and is kind throughout. I think we could all take something from that. You’re making quite a name for yourself in musical theatre, was that always your goal? I always loved musical theatre. As a kid I would watch the 10th anniversary Les Mis video we had time and time again. I learned all the parts off by heart so I could perform them for my brother (who to be honest couldn’t have cared less at the time!). So when I reached 16 all I wanted to do was

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audition for theatre schools. I auditioned everywhere to no avail but last minute managed to bag myself a spot on Italia Conti's 1 year course in London. At the same time as auditioning for schools I auditioned for X Factor. I took the opportunity to compete in the X Factor and I don’t regret my decision! Did you see the X Factor as a way into a career on stage then? I saw the X Factor as a great opportunity to learn and meet like-minded people. I never expected to reach the live finals of the show so when I did I was over the moon! I very

quickly met my agent through the lovely people at the X Factor and they pointed me in the right direction of singing teachers, acting coaches, where I should be going to for dance classes etc. I still train with the people I met back then and credit them with every tiny bit of success. Could you see yourself now as a pop performer? Oh absolutely. I love pop music and write songs all the time. Performing current chart music is still a big part of my career (between theatre jobs I gig constantly) and I LOVE IT! Little Mix are my faves at the moment. You

never know where life is going to take you, let alone life in this career. If I got the chance to record and release pop music I would love to do it again. What can audiences expect from Legally Blonde? An energetic, well written piece of theatre with a great story and incredibly catchy songs. The creative team attached to this project are, in my opinion, second to noneand I can't wait for people to see the exciting new version of this show that’s being created. I love this show and can't pick a favourite part, I can give you a top 100 though....

PERHAPS BEST KNOWN FROM HIS ROLE AS HEART THROB MARK SAVAGE IN HOLLYOAKS, DANNY MAC ALSO JOINS THE CAST OF CURVE’S LATEST MUSICAL PRODUCTION. WE CAUGHT UP WITH HIM TO FIND OUT MORE…

one scene you're on to the next, then you forget about it all for a few months and once it's on screen you don't even remember filming it! It'll be nice to play a bit amongst ourselves before sharing it with everyone once the curtain goes up. Your character Warner seems very focused on what he wanted to do as a career, were you the same? Did you always want to be an actor? Ha, yes we are similar there. For as long as I can remember it’s what I’ve wanted to do. Not having a backup plan left me little choice and little distraction from just going for it. Is this your first time in a musical? No, my first job out of drama school was in 'Wicked' and I also played 'Gavroche' in 'Les Misérables' on the first UK tour and in the West End at The Palace Theatre. Tell us about Warner… Warner is Elle's soon-to-be ex-boyfriend and is the catalyst to Elle's journey. He has a 'life plan' and Elle doesn't fit into it, so he breaks up with her - much to her surprise. What part of the show are you looking forward to most? I am a big dog lover and although I won't work with them directly I'm looking forward to having those little guys about when I'm not onstage. Besides that, I'm looking forward to rehearsals actually - TV can move very fast and before you're done with

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You were voted as soaps sexiest man four years in a row at the Inside Soap Awards – how did you cope with all of the added attention? I grew up in a small town and only ever dreamed of earning a living doing what I loved. I never thought about the fact you will then be judged by anyone and everyone (for various reasons) whether you like it or not - I was blessed to be given a great character that people seemed to really like. The show's fans are fantastic and I had a great response from them during my time there. The fact people found him 'sexy' still makes me laugh! A lot of people will recognise you from your role as Mark Savage in Hollyoaks, what do you prefer stage or screen? As much of a cliché as it sounds as a

performer, nothing compares to live theatre. I've loved working in TV and hope to again, but I'm excited to be getting back on the stage. Where would you like to take your career to next? All any actor wants to do is to keep working, the rest is an adventure. I would love to continue ticking boxes and doing things that I haven't done. A play would be great - the process excites me and again, it's live theatre. I would love to go back and do something new in TV and film also. To play a character in a piece set outside of my lifespan would really excite me. I get such a buzz from telling stories and creating so I've been writing too which has been totally different but a great outlet. Can you see yourself doing more musicals? I'm very lucky to have had doors open for both musicals and TV so far. My focus wasn't to do a musical next but I did want to work at Curve and get back on stage at some point, so when Nikolai Foster gave me the opportunity to work with him again and in such a great show as Legally Blonde, it was a no-brainer. Following that, who knows? Legally Blonde The Musical, directed by Nikolai Foster, runs from the 11th April to 14th May at Curve. For tickets visit www.curveonline.co.uk or call the box office on 0116 242 3595

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EVERY ASPECT OF SCHOOL LIFE RATED EXCELLENT

S CH O O LS

at Our Lady's Convent School

ur Lady's Convent School has received the highest possible accolade for an independent school – achieving an excellent rating across the board in its most recent inspection.

Visited by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (the independent equivalent to Ofsted), the Loughborough-based school was deemed “excellent” in all eight categories. These categories cover every aspect of school life: pupil achievement, extra-curricular opportunities, quality of teaching, personal development of pupils, pastoral care, health and safety, governance and leadership. Academic excellence and teaching were especially applauded, with the inspectors saying, “Teachers’ subject knowledge is excellent; their enthusiasm for their subjects promotes application from pupils, who appreciate the way they help them to learn. Lessons are very well planned, demonstrating a thorough understanding of pupils’ needs.” Inspectors also commented that, “Throughout the school, the pupils display an excellent attitude to their studies and an active involvement in the process of learning, in accordance with the school’s aims. They apply themselves with evident enjoyment, are keen to do well and are eager to be challenged. They are enthusiastic, readily responsive, and offer opinions and answers articulately and confidently. Classroom behaviour is exemplary.” Our Lady's Convent School was celebrated for its outstanding extra-curricular offering, balancing learning with in depth careers guidance, numerous university visits and excellent work experience opportunities. Inspectors observed that the “extracurricular achievement in many areas is strong in response to an extensive range of opportunities for pupils to develop their talents and personal qualities. The range of extra-curricular activities available for pupils of all ages is very wide and is a strength of the school”. The pupils’ excellent personal development, particularly spiritually and morally, was identified with the inspectors noting, “The school’s core Christian values create an environment in which pupils strive to understand their own spiritual dimension through reﬂection and by engaging with the lives of others. They have a clear sense of right and wrong, and they develop this through activities such as debating and taking part in public speaking.”

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Our Lady's Convent School is a CReSTeD accredited school, and the inspectors identified that it goes to great lengths to support children with specific learning differences, such as dyslexia. In the inspection, the school was commended for the assistance it gives to pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, and to those who learn English as an sdditional language. The inspectors recognised that the achievements of pupils is thanks in part to the “’family’ atmosphere of the school’s close community” and that “The school nurtures pupils’ sense of identity and self-worth, promoting emotional maturity and self-confidence.” Mrs Hawley, Headteacher of Our Lady's Convent School, said, “This rating is testament to the hard work and dedication of the staff and governors over a number of years. I am delighted that our ethos and holistic approach, as well as our outstanding teaching and learning, have been recognised and celebrated.” Our Lady's Convent School has a focus on the importance of family values and has a caring approach to education. It currently has over 200 pupils between the ages of 3-18, and welcomes children of all faiths and none. The inspection recognised that “pupils are noticeably proud of their school community, and are excellent ambassadors for it.” Mrs Hawley added, “I would encourage anyone considering independent education to visit us on any normal working day to see at first-hand what the inspectors clearly identified as our many strengths. We encourage our students to be all they aspire to be and we believe we lead by example. We will continue to evolve and constantly strive to excellence in all areas.” For pupils interested in applying for a 2016/17 start in September parents can contact the school on 01509 638280 to arrange a tour.

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In the EYFS, children’s achievements and progress exceed agerelated expectations…

The range of extra-curricular activities available for pupils of all ages, from the EYFS to the oldest in Year 13, is very wide and is a strength of the school

The inclusive nature of the school encourages pupils to feel confident to take advantage of the many opportunities presented to them

Pupils are noticeably proud of their school community, are excellent ambassadors for it and take advantage of the many opportunities to further their personal development, reaching a high standard in this respect by the time they leave the school

Throughout the school, the pupils display an excellent attitude to their studies and an active involvement with the process of learning

Teachers’ subject knowledge is excellent; their enthusiasm for their subjects promotes application from pupils, who appreciate the way they help them to learn

Provision for sport is wide ranging with high levels of participation in school sports teams, a karting team, cheerleading troupes and an indoor rowing club

EXCELLENT in all categories (Latest ISI Inspection Report) Your child deserves the BEST start in life at an EXCELLENT school. You are invited to visit Open Morning, on Thursday 5th May, 9.30am - 12 noon. By appointment only. Email: findoutmore@olcs.uk.net or ring 01509 638280 for more information or to book a tour. For more information or to request a prospectus please contact Our Lady’s Convent School, Gray Street, Loughborough LE11 2DZ Tel: 01509 263901

Web: www.OLCS.leics.sch.uk

Email: office@olcs.leics.sch.uk

Member of ISA

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FOREST SCHOOL FLOURISHES

thanks to funding boost

S CH O O LS

hildren in Leicester can continue to enjoy the great outdoors with Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust, thanks to a funding boost from players of People’s Postcode Lottery.

our urban areas. Children today are spending half as much time outdoors as they were a generation ago, so it’s great to see more children exploring and enjoying nature again. We’re very excited for the year ahead.”

Following the Wild Forest School project’s success last year, the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust has received the backing required to continue its good work across the city. The initiative allows youngsters to explore outdoor spaces and take part in a range of fun activities designed to stimulate imagination, creativity and investigation. From fire-lighting to cooking, woodwork to bushcraft and natural art, children can learn about the natural world in a safe environment.

Developed from the Scandinavian model of learning through play outdoors, Forest School sessions give children the freedom to learn and explore nature in their own way and at their own pace. Activities are run by leaders who are trained to watch the children closely, appreciate different learning styles and personalities, and provide the right support for the individuals they care for.

This year, plans are in place for the creation of a further ‘Wild Tots’ group, which will run weekly imaginative sessions for preschool children. The team will run a series of Wild Play sessions for children and their families during the school holidays, as well as a larger scale family event in the summer. The Trust will also be conducting a survey to help establish how primary school staff could be better supported to make the most of their school’s outdoor space.

Stephanie Hilborne OBE, chief executive of The Wildlife Trusts, commented: “It’s in children’s DNA to be fascinated by nature but it can be stiﬂing for a child to consistently hear what they can and can’t do. Children who experience Forest Schools are given more freedom and responsibility to explore their interests and initiate and direct their own learning. This enables them to connect with nature, experience the seasons and see how the Forest School areas change over time.” For more info visit www.wildforestschool.org.uk

The funding will help the Trust to run Forest School sessions with children at eight Leicester primary schools, as well as its existing sessions for pre-school and home-educated children. The team will also be building more wildlife areas in the grounds of city primary schools to help encourage pupils to spend more time during the week outside having fun and learning new skills. Simon Bentley, Director of Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust, commented: “Thanks to the continued support of players of People’s Postcode Lottery, we will now be able to provide even more opportunities for the children and young people in

ENTER TO

WIN!

A PAIR OF ADULT TICKETS TO KELMARSH COUNTRY SHOW Award-winning event organiser Countryman Fairs is giving away 5 pairs of adult one-day tickets worth £30 each to Kelmarsh Country Show, which is being held in the grounds of the spectacular Kelmarsh Hall in Northamptonshire on Sunday 27 and Monday 28 March 2016. As the county’s largest countryside-themed outdoor event, the two-day show boasts a comprehensive have-a-go itinerary for the whole family including gundog handling, clay shooting, survival camp, field archery, airguns, fishing, falconry and ferreting! The jam-packed show also offers more than 200 exhibition stands, picnic areas, a crammed Main Arena schedule, children's entertainment, food festival, craft and antiques fairs and live folk music. Advance tickets start from just £12.

Tickets on the day cost £15. Remember – children aged 15 and under can enter the show free of charge! For more information, visit: www.kelmarshcountryshow.co.uk

TO ENTER: Simply visit www.thebeaconmagazine.co.uk and select the competitions page. T&C's Apply. All entries must be received by the 21st March 2016.

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RECORD NUMBER OF CHEESE MAKERS

LO CAL

at UK's Largest Cheese Fair

isitors to the Artisan Cheese Fair in Melton Mowbray this year will be able to enjoy a record number of cheeses as 50 local and national cheese producers have now signed up to showcase over 300 of the UK’s best artisan cheeses.

The UK’s largest dedicated cheese fair will return for its sixth year from 10am to 4pm on 30 April and 1 May 2015 at the Cattle Market, Scalford Road, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire LE13 1JY. Last year, over 8,000 cheese-lovers visited the Artisan Cheese Fair and visitors to this year’s event will have the opportunity to taste and buy some of the UK’s rarest artisan cheeses including cow, goat and sheep milk cheeses. Exhibitors will be coming from England, Ireland and Wales, ranging from very small producers relatively new to cheese making, through to family firms that have been making artisan cheese for generations. Exhibitors will include the 50th producer to sign up, Hamm Tun Fine Foods whose Cobblers Nibble is a multi award winning hard English cheese made from pasteurised cows’ milk from a Northamptonshire Fresian herd.

Separation and Divorce with Dignity

Family Law advice from Bird Belderbos & Mee

Gary Bradshaw from Hamm Tun Fine Foods said: “This will be our first year at the Artisan Cheese Fair. The event has a great reputation as being an excellent place to showcase products to real cheese-lovers. As a relatively new producer, we’ve just moved into larger premises and are confident that the Cheese Fair will be a springboard to further growth.” Visitors can also learn about cheese in the daily programme of talks, demonstrations and tastings given by industry experts, as well as enjoying other local produce including pies, wine, cakes, cider, champagne and Melton Mowbray’s famous Pork Pies. Matthew O’Callaghan organiser of the Artisan Cheese Fair added: “The record number of cheese makers who have booked so far shows the reputation of the Fair in the cheese world. The event is a must for anyone who loves cheese with some of the UK’s rarest cheeses on show to taste and buy.” The Artisan Cheese Fair takes place on the first May Bank Holiday weekend. Entrance is priced at £3. For more information on the Artisan Cheese Fair 2016, visit www.artisancheesefair.co.uk

The collaborative process is a positive alternative to the traditional method of resolving disputes over children and finances which often occur when separating. It gives you the opportunity to work together with your partner through these issues to benefit you and your family. The process is less formal, more cost effective and allows you to maintain control. Divorce and separation is never easy but it can be made easier and less stressful using this process. James Belderbos is a qualified Collaborative Solicitor. For clear advice and to discuss all of your options, including mediation or court, to help you achieve resolution call us on.

01664 498 999

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90260

Your ISA Allowance It’s time to take action

Friday 18th March & Friday 8th April Come to one of our ISA Surgeries Help secure your financial future by making the most of the tax-saving and investment opportunities available before the end of the tax year. Your annual ISA allowance of £15,240 is an important and valuable way to help generate tax-efficient capital and income for the future. As a Partner Practice with St. James’s Place Wealth Management, our clients have entrusted us with £16.6 million of ISA and ISA-Feeder investments, and St. James’s Place with £10.7 billion of ISA investments, making St. James’s Place the UK’s largest Stocks & Shares ISA provider*. Through their distinctive investment management approach and our quality advice we can help create an investment strategy that will stand the test of time. *Source: Investment Association, November 2015

Don’t miss out. Invest by 5 April. th

We will be holding Surgeries at Kilworth House Hotel either side of the tax year end in order to assist you to make the most of this year’s opportunity or to get in early for next year’s allowance. We can also arrange strategies to pre-fund future years’ ISAs to ensure you make the most of annual allowances as they come along. If you would like to find out more about how you can make the most of the opportunities available to you, why not book a place at one of our informative surgeries. We run them regularly at the Kilworth House Hotel, strictly by prior appointment only. The bookings are private and confidential interviews with one of our experienced and knowledgeable Consultants, who will be able to guide you through the options available to you, and last approximately 40 minutes. The favourable treatment of ISAs may be subject to changes in legislation in the future.The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds selected and may fall as well as rise.You may get back less than you invested. The levels and bases of taxation and reliefs from taxation can change at any time and are generally dependent on individual circumstances.

TO MAKE A SURGERY BOOKING RYEHILL WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD

Partner Practice of St. James’s PlaceWealth Management Call: 0844 3320238 | email: ryehill@sjpp.co.uk Or book online: www.sjpp.co.uk/ryehill/events

Chris Parker is an experienced practitioner in the field of providing ideas and solutions for your investment requirements, and is inviting ‘Beacon’ readers to source locally-provided, practical advice on this complex and increasingly confusing area

Chris Parker The Partner Practice represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

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ESTATE AGENTS EST. 20 YEARS FREE PROPERTY VALUATIONS

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