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MAGAZINE
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64 | PROPERT Y ISSUE
PROPERTY
Special
Laurence L L E W E LY N B O W E N I
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Leicestershire’s
PREMIER LIFESTYLE
M A G A Z I N E DELIVERED TO 30,000 HOMES & BUSINESSES
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FITNESS TR AVEL FA S H I O N MARCH/APRIL 2015
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Make a move with us today • Accompanied viewings • Honest feedback • Floorplans as standard
To arrange a FREE valuation call 0116 2168473 or Talk to us in branch today at 15 Woodgate, Rothley. harrisonmurray.co.uk |2|
SALES
It is not Harrison Murray’s policy to accept instructions where there is a Sole Agency Agreement in existence, until that agreement has expired or is terminated.
Harrison Murray Limited, registered in England and Wales number 3190376. Registered Office: Nottingham House, highlighting local luxury 3 Fulforth Street, Nottingham, NG1 3DL. A wholly owned subsidiary of Nottingham Property Services Limited.
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CONTENTS | MARCH/APRIL 3
13
8 INTERVIEW
14
18
22
46
57
60
1 8 FA S H I O N
Laurence Llewelyn Bowen is a ‘Glambassador’ at this year's Ideal Home Show and The Beacon caught up with him for an exclusive interview
6 6 T R AV E L
Your coat or jacket should give you a fabulous first impression! What does yours say about you, asks Your Fairy Clothes Mother Cleo Lacey
The good folk at Kuoni Leicester have hand-picked five of their favourite self-drives for us. Follow their lead, or feel free to mix it up...
th i s i s s u e at a g l a n c e
13
Hair
14
MAKE UP
22
H E A LT H
24
PROPERTY
32
KITCH EN S
38
HOME STYLE
42
INTERIORS
46
GARDENS
57
M OTO RS
58
VISIT VERONA
60
T I M E FO R T E A
68
NOTICE BOARD
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. Ar ticles may be submitted by e-mail or typewritten. 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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Welcome!
THE
very first brand new, re-branded edition of The
TEAM
Beacon Magazine North. With you, our reader at
EDITORIAL
the forefront, we will be pulling out all the stops
Karen Dench t: 0116 2022727
e are absolutely delighted to welcome you to our
every single issue to keep you inspired and entertained; bringing you only the very best in aspirational features & fascinating articles, as well as the crème de la crème of local products, services and special offers, available right on your doorstep.
ADVERTISING Tracey Kitchen t: 0116 2022726 e traceyk@thebeaconmagazine.co.uk Lisa Schulze t: 0116 2022728
This edition is our annual ‘Property Special’ and it’s jam packed
e lisas@thebeaconmagazine.co.uk
with everything you need for your home – inside and out! So,
DESIGN
if you are looking for some stylish tips on interior design, who
Creative Director: Matt Curtis
better to take advice from than our cover star Laurence Llewelyn Bowen – we caught up with Laurence as he prepares for the Ideal Home Show at Olympia later this month.
matt.curtis@greenshires.com Design/Artwork: Hannah Calderbank, Ed Trickett, Matt Cox, Guy Jolley
DISTRIBUTION
And having spent the last ten years looking at my tired old
Leicester Leaflets & Self Select
bathroom, it was definitely time for a long overdue make-over,
MARKETING
so turn to page 28 to check out the stunning results, once
Leanne Houghton t: 0116 2022732
Oaklands’ got their hands on it! All this talk of home improvement, may well leave you in need of a sit down with a good old cuppa, and have we got some great brews for you to choose from....although if it’s something a little more special you’re looking for, be sure to check out our lovely ‘Afternoon Tea’ feature for how to perfectly recreate this quintessential English treat.
Karen x
LO OK O UT! For the BEACON VOUCHER icon throughout the magazine for exclusive offers for Beacon readers from some of your favourite local business! ENTER TO
Why not enter one of our fantastic BEACON COMPETITIONS... Look out for your opportunity to win wherever the competition rosette is shown in the magazine
highlighting local luxury
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CONTRIBUTORS Health & Fitness: Jo Helcke Fashion & Beauty: Cleo Lacey, Hayley Powell , Indy Burmi Food & Drink: Anisha Mistry Home & Garden: Frances Hunt Motors: Andrew Wright
thebeaconmagazine.co.uk
Beacon Magazine – Highlighting Local Luxury!
Vouchers
e marketing@thebeaconmagazine.co.uk
SOCIAL MEDIA
So, until next time, sit back and enjoy your brand new
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e karend@thebeaconmagazine.co.uk
WIN!
Visit our website to enter any competitions and download any discount vouchers or special offers. thebeaconmagazine Like us on Facebook and check out our competitions and offers, plus keep up to date with the latest local news, reviews & events @thebeaconteam Follow us on Twitter to hear about any special promotions Plus you can also view our online version of the magazine.
the beacon magazine is published by Greenshires Publishing, 160-164 Barkby Road, Leicester, LE4 9LF Tel: 0116 202 2732
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deVOL opens in Clerkenwell, London Our London showroom is now up and running, lots of the staff from ‘Cotes Mill’ in Loughborough have relocated to London. We have kitchen, graphic and product designers and our PR and marketing manager all working from our lovely new premises. We have fitted a beautiful Shaker kitchen in the shop, painted it in our favourite ‘Pantry Blue’ colour and have used ‘Carrara Marble’ for all the worktops, a gorgeous white ‘Esse’ cooker completes the look. It’s a very smart display and is creating quite a stir, making the shop busier than we could have imagined, people all over London are now wanting a deVOL kitchen in their home. They come into the new shop saying ‘Wow, I’ve seen deVOL in all the big magazines and now you’re here in London, how exciting!’ Over the years deVOL has gradually become a popular choice for people from London and the home counties and from our Cotes Mill site we sell lots of kitchens to these customers. Many people are happy to make the journey up to Leicestershire to see the workshops, the Mill and the flooring showroom, however, not everyone has the time or inclination to travel and it is these people who are enjoying deVOL’s new location.
The showroom is located in the London Borough of Islington, EC1, in an area called Clerkenwell, not far from the city. A spot that is really well known for having the highest concentration of architects, designers and artists in the world, the area has a real buzz about it and feels like the perfect spot for us to be in. We are located in the basement and on the ground floor of a beautiful and unusual red brick building, just across the street from Exmouth Market, a famous pedestrianised area packed with quirky shops, fantastic restaurants, super cool cafes and bars and a very busy street food scene. It’s a great place to visit even if you’re not looking for a kitchen and only a 15 minute walk from St Pancras. We really hope you will visit us, either at Cotes Mill our country retreat where we sell not only kitchens but a wonderful array of vintage and unusual gifts and furniture, or at our new shop in good old London town. We always recommend making an appointment if you would like to chat to a designer, but you are always welcome to pop in and take a look at our beautiful hand made kitchens.
Leicestershire: Cotes Mill, Nottingham Road, Cotes, Loughborough, LE12 5TL - www.devolkitchens.co.uk - 01509 261000 London: 2 Tysoe Street, Clerkenwell, London. EC1R 4RQ - 0203 8375 900
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Our new Shaker ‘Loft Kitchen’ at Cotes Mill.
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| INTERVIEW
Laurence LLEWELYN BOWEN L AU R E N CE LLE WE LYN BOWE N I S A ‘G L AM BAS SAD O R ’ AT TH I S YE AR ' S ID E AL H O M E S H OW AN D TH E B E ACO N CAU G HT U P WITH H IM FO R AN E XCLU S IVE INTERVIE W … .
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aurence is at the Ideal Home Show as an ambassador, giving 2-3 talks a day about style and design in Britain and then wandering around the show talking to visitors. Laurence told us: “I don’t see myself as a fusty Ambassador, but rather as a ‘Glam-bassador’ championing British design and style”, The Ideal Home Show is an iconic tradition that we in Britain are really good at. We embrace new and exciting design and the rest of the world looks on in envy. Laurence said: “I travel the world doing programmes for the BBC and everywhere I go, they all look back at Britain to set the new trends in design. As a nation we are thoughtful creative and glamorous and the rest of the world loves those qualities that are part of our nature and our history” “Children are natural interior designers” says Laurence Laurence explained that his interest in interior design actually began at an early age, when he remembers at the age of six, being allowed to choose the curtains for his new bedroom. He chose a background of Napoleonic Soldiers and he said that it made him feel very grown up.
“ My personal view is that it should be extremely well researched before you start.” “We all have engagement in our surroundings from an early age and children are particularly attuned to it. Anyone with a child will tell you that they have very definite views on what they would like their personal space to look like and I can’t remember a time when I
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wasn’t attuned to it” Laurence told us. As a nation this works well by encouraging new young talent and ideas, it's how new style movements are born, just look at how the young designers influenced the swinging sixties, or the Punk movement influenced the late seventies. We asked him about the balance between historical research and creative design when he undertakes a new restoration project and his reply was enthusiastic but authoritative: “My personal view is that it should be extremely well researched before you start. You should understand the period that relates to your project and then literate on it, starting with a historical list of its inhabitants. It is the antidote to Grand Designs where old boundaries are stretched with seamless designs using modern technology. Our parents must be appalled that we move into traditional Victorian properties, and then strip them of all their original features. Every concert pianist needs to learn scales, before playing a symphony. Many people are now trying to restore the old features, but the old fireplaces and mouldings are increasingly hard to find, so the replica industry is now booming. But how can you do this effectively if you have no relationship to the period? Meticulous research – or domestic archaeology – is so important.” We asked Laurence how to bring style and design into our homes when houses are getting smaller and space is a valuable commodity. Lawrence told us: Live in a jewel box and enjoy it! “Contemporary construction is constrained by forces, political, economic, and peer expectation. In Britain, houses are not sold by square feet but by the number of bedrooms, but you can’t sell a five bedroomed house that has one decent sized room and four almost unusable box rooms, so what’s the point?
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“I don’t see myself as a fusty Ambassador, but rather as a ‘Glam-bassador’...”
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| INTERVIEW
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WIN! The first thing that people do is liberate the space by knocking walls out. In other countries houses are sold by the number of square feet inside them. I think this method would really damage the UK housing market, because people would then see what they are really getting for their money.” The Victorians had big houses and then created small rooms in them such as the study, snug, and the boudoir, so stop kidding yourself – live in your jewel box and enjoy it! “Be more fruity!” He said… “You should only have beige walls in your house if you live on the Cote d’Azur where the natural light will reflect around the rooms. In Britain our light is the colour of snot and beige is the very last colour we should have on our walls.”
AN AMAZING SIEMENS INDUCTION PAN SET WORTH OVER £100! To celebrate induction cooking becoming more popular in our designs, The Leicester Kitchen Depot in conjuction with the beacon are offering someone the opportunity Go to p35 for details
WIN!
“ You should only have beige walls in your house if you live on the Cote d’Azur..” Modernism is very un-sexy, efficient and intellectual, whereas style and design has been sexy for thousands of years. Just look at the Egyptians...all interior design should appeal to your very taste buds. Laurence had an important message for us: “In Britain we need to start telling people how good we are and the Ideal Home Show is a place where we can show the world in a dignified way that British design is an inspiration to the rest of the world….”
A VIP VINEYARD TOUR & WINE TASTING PLUS MYSTERY GIFT WORTH £25 Offered by Kingfishers’ Pool vineyard in Leicestershire. The vineyard is not usually open to the public, but this is a special treat for the lucky winner Go to p62 for details
WIN!
A FULL HOUSE CARPET CLEAN Ecoclean Carpet Care Ltd is offering a fabulous dry clean to bring your carpets back to life. Go to p31 for details
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3/5/15 10:52 AM
HEALTH, FITNESS & WELLBEING
PREVENTATIVE MEASURES FOR GUM DISEASE AND DECAY DETECTION.
Smile
LIKE YOU ME AN IT
K
eep your pearly whites healthy and fit for life by learning about the warning signs of dental problems and how to prevent them. Read on to find out more.
The Causes… Gum disease and tooth decay can affect people of any age and can lead to problems including pain, irritation and potential loss of teeth! Working their way under the gum line and forcing the gums to recede. This leads to a gradual weakening of the foundations of your teeth, which can ultimately cause tooth loss, and other unpleasant symptoms such as bad breath. Various different factors can contribute to gum disease: smoking, poor dental hygiene, and even genetics, if your parents and other relatives have a propensity to bad teeth.
The Indicators… The main indicators of gum disease include bad breath (no matter how much you brush your teeth), a metallic taste in the mouth, and swollen or bleeding gums. If your gums bleed, particularly when brushing your teeth, take this sign as your mouth’s cry for help, and don’t ignore it! The Cures… Fortunately, avoiding gum disease and taking good care of your teeth doesn’t have to be hard, and taking a few simple steps now while your teeth are healthy can help to prevent future problems. • Brush and floss twice a day and after meals if possible. • Ask your dentist if you are using the right toothbrush and brushing properly. • Schedule regular dental check-ups, so the plaque and tartar can be removed before it gets under your skin! • Detecting gum disease early can be an early warning of other health related issues such as heart disease, high blood pressure or even oral cancer. For more information on how we can help, please contact Smile Essential on 0116 2891317 or visit www.smileessential.co.uk for a consultation. Dr. Niket Patel BDS (Birm) Smile Essential, 434a Narborough Road, Leicester, LE3 2FS
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3/5/15 10:52 AM
BOB’S, LOB’S AND FRINGES… HAYLEY ROE OF AQUA HAIR SALON GIVES US THE SECRETS OF A NEW LOOK FOR AN ICONIC HAIR STYLE
T
his season the fashion catwalks are full of long, long and more, long hair. Some low in the neck, half undone ponies and a lot of gelleddown, scraped-back creations. However most of us would be sent home from work with instructions for a good hair wash if we dared to turn up to a meeting like that. Not styles for everyone you might say. So what’s going on in the real world? Hayley tells us: “Mainly some
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lobs, a few bobs and definitely some well-defined fringes” Here are some tips on how to get this iconic look: Lob
hangs somewhere between shoulder and jaw line. It’s bold and soft all at the same time by smoothing the roots to a polished effect, but leaving the ends air dried for a sea-breezy tousle.
If you’ve been growing your hair since last Spring’s chop and are at a loss with it, the perfect solution is a delightful collar bone grazing, blunt ended lob. Get rid of those tired ends - sharpen up and refresh that colour at the same time, with this crisp modern look for any age group.
Frame
Bob
Call Hayley at Aqua today to book in: 01509 414759
This is surely the most timeless and flattering cut of all time. There’s a new version for every season and this one
Once you’ve chosen your overall length, a fringe can really open up and shape your face. Experiment with side sweeps to create a more oval shape or to accentuate cheek bones. And for the true ‘Fashionista’s’, go for an above eyebrow blunt and wide affair.
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3/5/15 10:54 AM
FASHION & BEAUTY |
AS WE GET OLDER, OUR HAIR FOLLICLES START TO SLOW DOWN, GROWING HAIR MORE SLOWLY, RESULTING IN STRAIGHTER HAIR. AGE CHANGES OUR HAIR TEXTURE. INDY EXPLAINS HOW TO KEEP MATURING LOCKS LOOKING LUSCIOUSLY YOUNG…
AGEING
Style
WITH
I
n the same way, colour pigments are also lost with age, resulting in grey hair, and the slow working follicles can even cause a hair to fall out, and grow back much thicker and more coarse. Women may experience hair changes during the menopause in their later years. Hair turns grey when its melanin or pigment disappears. Greying typically begins in Caucasians from the age of 30 onwards, and roughly 10 years later in people with darker skin. Its onset is largely determined by genetics, so have a look at your parents…. One theory about the cause of greying is that it is due to “oxidative stress” This is a condition when an excess of free radicals subsequently damage the pigment-creating cellular structures within the hair follicle. This process may also explain why many people notice their hair becomes coarser and tougher to manage as it greys, since the cells that create melanin are closely connected to the ones that build the keratin hair shaft.
Phew…I’m going grey just thinking about all that! So what can we do about those big bad free radicals?
“I ALWAYS RECOMMEND SALON EXPERTISE. DON’T BE TEMPTED INTO DYING YOUR HAIR AT HOME AS IT WILL MAKE THE ROOTS VERY OBVIOUS.” There are plenty of ways to embrace silvery tones, but most people choose to disguise it. However, there is no
need to book in for a permanent rootto-tip colour the moment you spot your first grey hair… If there are only a few, just colour the individual greys either in your natural colour or in a richer shade. Sometimes a quasi-permanent colour wash will be enough to stain the greys whilst adding a healthy lustre to the rest of the hair. Another way is to scatter highlights through the hair: if your hair is multitoned throughout, greys are disguised and won’t show up as severely. “I always recommend salon expertise. Don’t be tempted into dying your hair at home as it will then be a block colour and regrowth after a couple of weeks will make the roots very obvious.” So while it may be a little late to delay the onset of oxidative stress [yes, it was all his fault!] just be clever about complementing the ageing process of your hair. Keep it based on skin tone and style and let us keep your locks looking lusciously young!
Indy Hair, 1-3 Guildhall Lane, Leicester | e: indyhair@me.com | t: 0116 251 7170 Mewies and Indy, 3a High Street, Quorn | e: mihair@icloud.com | t: 01509 767006 Indy is available for appointments at the Quorn salon on Fridays 12pm-8pm
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| FASHION & BEAUTY
IN THIS ISSUE MORNING TV’S & THE BEACON MAGAZINE'S BEAUTY EXPERT HAYLEY SPARKES GETS TO GRIPS WITH THE MINEFIELD OF ANTI-AGEING IN THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY.
Forever
YOUNG? T
he market is saturated with anti-ageing products all claiming to turn back the clock, with each brand
describing their own products as the best available, so how do we know which ones really work and which we should invest our money in? A good place to start is the key ingredients which help tackle the signs of ageing. Retinol: Has long been used for its anti-wrinkle properties. It is the purest form of the antioxidant vitamin A. Studies show that Retinol is effective, but many people can’t use it because of the side effects of redness and irritation. ROC claims to have resolved the issue with their Retinol Correxion
Deep Wrinkle Night Crème. Available on Amazon with prices starting from £21.00. Hyaluronic Acid: This is a powerful ingredient which has the ability to hold up to 1000x its weight in water, look out for it in moisturizers and other face creams. We produce Hyaluronic acid naturally within the body which is used in our joints and our eyes as a lubricant. Hyaluronic acid is also known as an anti-scaring and healing aid. Leading skincare line Murad sell an Intensive Age-Diffusing Serum which contains Hyaluronic acid. This technically advanced serum instantly tightens skin and, with continued use, reveals smoother skin. The Intensive Age-Diffusing serum brings life back to dry, dull skin, reduces deeper lines
Pamper Room
and wrinkles and restores a healthy radiance. RRP £64 www.murad.co.uk Alpha Hydroxy: This is an acid derived from fruits, alpha hydroxy is an excellent exfoliant. It eats away the top layer of dead, dull skin so that your skin can rejuvenate with new, healthy cells. Though the name sounds quite technical, you may recognize it by some of its various compounds including citric acid, glycolic acid, malic acid, lactic acid and tartaric acid. Natural skincare line Pevonia Botanica’s spot treatment contains Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid. This spot treatment provides exceptional visible results, soothing irritability, and bringing forth quick healing and smooth clear skin. 30ml RRP: £37 www.pevonia.co.uk
Massage, Beauty & Holistic Treatments
7a Humberstone Lane, Thurmaston, Leicester, LE4 8HJ 0116 2602000 | pamperroom@hotmail.co.uk | www.pamperroom.co.uk
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3/5/15 1:08 PM
Argireline: Elizabeth Arden Ceramide lift & Firm moisture cream 50ml RRP £57 contains the potent antiageing ingredient argireline. This anti-aging power house excels at plumping surface lines and wrinkles with remarkable results. Visible signs of aging appear to reduce with this non-invasive skincare. Argireline, is a potent hexapeptide with proven skin plumping abilities. This moisturiser also contains Ceramides to combat sun exposure and damage. The Ceramide Triple Complex (Ceramides 1, 3 and 6) in this product help reinforce and restore the lipids that are essential components of the skins protective barrier. www.elizabetharden.com
RED BELL PEPPERS: RRP 99P | (PACK OF THREE) ROC RETINOL CORREXION DEEP WRINKLE NIGHT CRÈME STARTING FROM £21.00 | AMAZON.CO.UK
Natural Alternatives from your Kitchen: Green Tea: High in the antioxidant known as EGCG, it helps battle wrinkles and increase cell turnover. Ginger & Honey: In India many women start the day with a warm cup of ginger tea mixed with honey which is loaded with anti-aging benefits. Honey has natural anti-bacterial properties and reduces inflammation. Ginger has an antioxidant called gingerol, which helps protect against collagen breakdown.
HYALURONIC ACID
ALPHA HYDROXY:
RRP £64.00 | MURAD.CO.UK
RRP £37.00 | PEVONIA.CO.UK
ELIZABETH ARDEN CERAMIDE LIFT & FIRM MOISTURE CREAM 50ML
RRP £2.00 | YOUR LOCAL SUPERMARKET
Red Bell Peppers: These contain 60% more vitamin C than green peppers. A study in the American journal of vitamin C found that people with diets high in vitamin C were less prone to wrinkles possibly because the nutrient spurs the production of collagen. I hope you have found this column useful….until next time
Hayley x 07958 651329
GINGER & HONEY
RRP £57.00 | ELIZABETHARDEN.COM
hayleysparkes@live.com
hayleysparkes.co.uk
Massage, Beauty & Holistic Treatments
/@hayleysparkes
/hayley.m.sparkes
Pamper Room
7a Humberstone Lane, Thurmaston, Leicester, LE4 8HJ
www.pamperroom.co.uk | pamperroom@hotmail.co.uk | 0116 2602000 thebeaconmagazine.co.uk
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| FASHION & BEAUTY
YOUR COAT OR JACKET SHOULD GIVE YOU A FABULOUS FIRST IMPRESSION! WHAT DOES YOURS SAY ABOUT YOU, ASKS YOUR FAIRY CLOTHES MOTHER CLEO LACEY
W
hen it comes to outerwear, one item does not fit all. Many of my clients at our first meeting don’t realise the importance of their outer garment. They may have a wonderful outfit then just throw their favourite old coat on over the top, destroying the whole look! “I can’t stress enough how important it is to finish off your outfit, making you into a chic, stylish and polished lady of Leicestershire!” Here are the essential items of outerwear for every woman’s wardrobe. The Winter Coat Your choice of coat is the most important decision you’ll make once the weather takes a turn for the worse. Not only is it your first line of defence against the elements, but it’s often the first thing that others notice too; so a new piece of outerwear should be at the very top of your Autumn Winter wish list. Although a winter coat is a classic garment that never really falls out of fashion, traditionally each season a couple of new silhouettes will dominate the high fashion collections and stand out from the rest. “My recommendation is to go for a classic, simple, chic and sophisticated style.” This will ensure you can wear it for the next 10 plus years. Jaeger, Reiss, Ted Baker and Hobbs have some fantastic designs in the high street, and if you fancy splashing the cash. try Max Mara or Alexander McQueen. The Jacket The jacket can take many forms, from tweed to denim or leather, and is created simply to add a stylish layer over an outfit when it isn’t cold enough to warrant a coat but not warm enough to go without. Typically worn in the spring and autumn months, it should be flattering and look good with a multitude of outfits from jeans to dresses. “The leather jacket for me is one of the most important wardrobe staples.” It still surprises me now how many ladies don’t own one. The secret is to edge it up a little, one of my favourite styles is
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the biker. ‘Whistles’ do a fab one that suits all ages and body shapes. I’d go for black as it’s so classical and versatile, and then soften the look round the face with the use of a scarf. “Trust me; you’ll wonder how you coped without one!” The Blazer Another of my absolute wardrobe staples, ALL women that like to wear jeans for a smart casual look should own one. If you are thinking of going for your first blazer I would suggest navy as it suits so many skin tones and looks great with blue, white or grey denim. A nude blazer is also a clever investment and looks very chic teamed with black jeans. A blazer is for similar times of the year when you would wear a jacket, and if it’s a little chilly, add a stylish scarf. I would always advise investing in tailoring; however the high street does offer a great selection of blazers in different styles and colours. Try Reiss, Whistles, Zara and Topshop. “If you are petite be aware of the length of your blazer” If it’s too long it’ll make you look even shorter and dumpier. Think fitted, and creating a waistline is a smart addition to a good pair of jeans. The Mac There’s only one brand that springs to mind when I think of a Mac… Burberry. There is no doubt that this is one of the most iconic pieces to be found in anyone’s wardrobe. “No other item of outerwear embodies British heritage and style as much as our treasured trench coat.” Loved all over the world the trench coats origin is distinctly military style, however thanks to the fabulous designers at Burberry, it has had a little twist. You can get them with leather inserts, gold studs and zips. If that’s not your thing then you’ll find plenty on the high-street with a more classical element. If you want to invest in this classical staple, make sure you head down to Bicester Village in Oxford. They always have a great selection of macs in their Burberry outlet. Alternatively Hobbs and Ted Baker generally do a good version. You can wear a mac over anything; jeans, a dress, or even a suit. It’s an incredibly practical yet stylish addition to your wardrobe, what’s not to love?
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THIS PAGE: LANDS END NAVY BLAZER £89.95 | LANDSEND.CO.UK FACING PAGE L-R: BETTY BARCLAY BEIGE TRENCH COAT £115.00 | BETTYBARCLAY.COM LA REDOUTE WOOL & SILK DOUBLE BREASTED COAT £79.99 | LAREDOUTE.CO.UK LONG TALL SALLY LEATHER LOOK TEXTURED JACKET £90.00 | LONGTALLSALLY.COM
I'LL GET MY COAT 0781 299 1819
cleolacey@demi-couture.co.uk
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STONES HAIR AND BEAUTY
Come & see
our fantastic newly refurbushed
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01509 621162 WWW.STONESHAIRANDBEAUTY.CO.UK 10 STATION ROAD QUORN LE12 8BS thebeaconmagazine.co.uk
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24/02/2015 15:17 11:10 03/03/2015
| HEALTH, FITNESS & WELLBEING
DR JOANNA HELCKE IS AN EXPERT IN PREGNANCY AND POSTNATAL PILATES AND WINNER OF THE UK’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS FITNESS AWARD: THE 2014 FITPRO AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN FITNESS. IN THIS ISSUE JO INVESTIGATES....
CAN EXERCIS E REALLY
MAKE YOU
Younger…?
I
have a confession; during the last few years I have become increasingly preoccupied with ageing. I first started noticing all the new mums in the playground whose children were just starting school: “Wow, they look so young, I thought… and by contrast I don’t anymore.” The odd thing is that in my head I am still approximately 20 years old, but the face staring back from the mirror doesn’t match up to my expectations. The situation is hammered home even more forcefully because I specialise in pregnancy and postnatal fitness, so by definition the women I work with remain forever young as I grow inexorably older. Whilst those expanding smilewrinkles around my eyes undoubtedly bother me, I have a weapon in my anti-
aging tool kit: Exercise. .. Have a look at a retired ballet dancer - perfect posture, the long graceful neck, lean, lithe limbs that mask strength beneath their elegance. To me it says it all: “Exercise keeps your body young.” Most of us know; or at least suspect; that after a certain age our body starts to deteriorate if we don’t do something about it. We used to get out of the squashy sofa with ease, now we have to heave ourselves up. Drop something on the floor and we creak to pick it up again. Heavy shopping bags and loaded trolleys become backache nightmares. Yet from personal experience, my regular strength training has left me fitter, stronger, more supple and with greater vitality than in my 20s. Looking
into this more closely, it’s good to know that I’m not kidding myself: “It really is possible to reverse the aging process through resistance training.” Research shows that progressive resistance work actually reverses the loss of muscle mass which naturally occurs after a certain age; around 40; and also changes the muscle at a molecular level leaving you biologically younger. If this isn’t enough to convince you to hit the weights area in the Gym, then try the recent news that exercise leaves you with younger skin… Although I should add that this research was conducted on the skin of people’s bottoms; not their faces; so perhaps that’s not quite such an incentive!
FOR WEEKLY MUM-TO-BE AND NEW MUM HEALTH AND FITNESS ADVICE PLUS FREE WEEKLY HEALTH & FITNESS NEWSLETTERS & YOUR FREE 7 DAY CLASS PASS SIGN UP TO JOANNA’S NEWSLETTER AT WWW.JOANNAHELCKE.COM AND FOR LOCAL CLASSES TAKE A LOOK AT WWW.ZEST4LIFEUK.COM
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PRINT A5 Advert Portrait BM0115.pdf 1 15/12/2014 11:02:49
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03/03/2015 15:17
Picture Credit: House of Bath
PROPERT Y
Special | 24 |
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PROPERTY |
BRADLEY THOMPSON, SALES DIRECTOR AT ALEX ANDERS ESTATE AGENTS, SHARES HIS TIPS AND ADVICE TO ENSURE YOUR PROPERTY STANDS OUT FROM THE CROWD
A
fter the long winter months the green shoots of spring are finally to be seen. Traditionally a time where the longer days and lighter skies herald an increase of interest from both buyers and sellers to start their property move process. This is the beginning of the optimum time for the property season. Vendors find it important to spring clean their homes and spruce their gardens as this will assist with any future sale. Whilst with more daylight hours, buyers have time to view properties throughout the week. Recently we have seen a remarkable increase in the number of proceedable applicants contacting us directly to register their requirements. Whilst actively enquiring about any properties soon to be launched. We therefore advise anyone seeking their next home to continue this trend. It always helps when prospective purchasers are as clear as possible on price and property requirements so that we can quickly tailor their personal search. For prospective vendors a few simple tidying and cleaning jobs can make a massive difference to first impressions. Any work enhancing the look of your home will always help
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A FEW SIMPLE TIDYING AND CLEANING JOBS CAN MAKE A MASSIVE DIFFERENCE TO FIRST IMPRESSIONS. ANY WORK ENHANCING THE LOOK OF YOUR HOME WILL ALWAYS HELP TO SELL IT QUICKLY.....
to sell it quickly, for example; tidy the garden, re-paint or clean existing paintwork and always keep windows sparkling. The practical advantages of living in our catchment area will always be a major selling point, however at this time of year we should also remember the aesthetic beauty of the surrounding Leicestershire countryside. Whilst another point worth repeating is that a For Sale board is one of your strongest marketing tactics, often catching the eye of people who were not necessarily thinking of moving. To sum up, spring is here! Let’s get you moving! Competition levels increase during this time, therefore who you choose to market you property is highly important. At Alexanders we listen to your specific needs, our expert local knowledge and professional marketing allows us to tailor our service provided to you and achieve the optimum price for your property in the best possible time frame. Whilst in light of current changes to the market we continue to advertise on leading property portals Rightmove, Zoopla and PrimeLocation. Alexanders Estate Agents, The Gate House, Loughborough. LE11 1UE T: 01509 861 222 E: lbrsales@alexanders-estates.com
highlighting local luxury
| 25 | 3/5/15 10:57 AM
• • • • •
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| HOME & GARDEN
AFTER
PROPERT Y
Special
MOVE OR
IMPROVE
W
e moved into our lovely home in Market Harborough on the 26th February 2004; an easy date to remember as it was my mum’s birthday. Since then, aside from the odd lick of paint here and there, interior home improvements have been fairly low down the agenda in the Dench household! Until now that
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is‌..as thanks to Oaklands, and our beautiful new bathroom, we may have just caught the bug. With reasonably busy lives, and coupled with being complete novices at bathroom design, we made the decision very early on to seek out an experienced specialist, who could manage the entire project from design to installation throughout for
BEFORE
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us. Having seen lots of stunning bathrooms created by Oaklands in the past, they were first on my list to approach. From the outset, we knew we’d made a great choice – initially we had a home visit from owner James and designer Ben to discuss our requirements and the options available. It’s only when you speak to an expert that the realisation dawns, how perhaps that fancy roll-top, centre piece bath tub is not necessarily the most practical option for the decidedly average sized family bathroom you have. Or, the minimalist look of a single shower drencher head, whilst undoubtedly stylish, falls slightly short when it comes to ease of cleaning. Trying to create the illusion of space can be a challenge, and this is where Oaklands came into their own – semi pedestal storage sinks, wall mounted towel rails and clean, crisp tiling were all cleverly considered. Our ideas
AFTER
BEFORE
BEFORE
THE DEVIL IS IN THE DETAIL – THE QUALITY OF THE FINISH IS EXCELLENT were willingly taken on board and interpreted brilliantly - achieving exactly the look we wanted, in a way that suited not only the space, but took into consideration so much more. It was all this great advice along with their patience at Oaklands, that resulted in a fabulously, tranquil and relaxing space where we can unwind at the end of a busy day. Although our preference was always white, we wanted to avoid a completely clinical look and after seeing some vibrant red mosaic tiles in their Blaby showroom, we decided to make a bold statement in carefully selected places, to
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AFTER
effectively contrast the stark lightness. The beauty about working with a specialist such as Oakands, is that when you make these choices, you can see a visual of the finished design before the work begins – so you can be entirely certain you are happy with it. From start to finish, and even with a few last minute changes thrown at them, they remained efficient and unflustered and in around two weeks our brand new bathroom was completed. The devil is in the detail – the quality of the finish is excellent. At every stage, the standard of the customer service and particularly the workmanship, was of the highest calibre – we barely knew they were
there and everything was constantly kept clean and tidy – even down to the tea and coffee cups! We are absolutely thrilled with our gorgeous new bathroom. The quality of the finish really is excellent and all the attention to detail makes all the difference, to give a truly luxurious feel. My only one worry now though is, I’ve seen their kitchens….. perhaps a project for 2016! Oaklands 7-11 Welford Road, Blaby Leicester LE8 4FT www.oakland-leicester.co.uk info@oakland-leicester.co.uk t 0116 2772252 Showroom Mon – Fri 9-5 Sat – By Appointment Only
highlighting local luxury
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thebeaconmagazine.co.uk
3/5/15 10:39 AM
WIN A FULL HOUSE CARPET CLEAN when did you last pamper your carpets? Ecoclean Carpet Care Ltd is offering a fabulous whole house* dry clean to bring your carpets back to life.
E N T E R TO
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Add light and space to your home Would you like somewhere to just sit back and admire your garden? Adding a conservatory can be a relatively low cost, hassle free way to extend your living area whilst adding value to your home.
See the difference in your carpets with our eco-friendly system that is tested ‘wool safe’ and carried out by trained technicians. It is totally safe for children and pets and no risk of colour runs or shrinkage. With our natural dry clean system, your carpets will be ready to use immediately – no drying time or wet-dog after smell, just fresh clean carpets 100% safe for all carpets including Wool, sisal and wool mix fabrics. Ecoclean can also provide a low moisture, foam upholstery cleaning service on all fabric suites. *Prize: Max size 3 beds, including hall, stairs & landing approx. value £200
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For Further information about the products supplied by Ecoclean Carpet Care Ltd please call 0116 3552680 or 01509 213219 or visit their website on www.ecocleancarpetcare.co.uk
TO ENTER: Simply visit www.thebeaconmagazine.co.uk and select the competitions page. Subject to Terms & Conditions. All entries must be received by the 31st May 2015.
For more information, call Harveys on 0116 233 4441 Open Weekdays 9-5, Saturday 10-1 Showroom: Empire Road, Leicester LE3 5HE info@harveyswindows.co.uk www.harveyswindows.co.uk
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3/5/15 10:40 AM
| ADVERTORIAL
A DREAM KITCHEN Is your dream kitchen grand and fancy, or is it subtle and understated? Here at deVOL, your dream kitchen is easy to live with, a place that is functional, well organised and beautiful. A dream kitchen is trouble free and makes you and your family feel calm and happy. “Don’t be tempted to go for maximum wow and impact, or instant gratification that will fade with time.” Helen Parker, Creative Director at deVOL tells us: “Try to temper your desire to shoe horn everything you ever dreamed of into your kitchen or your dream may not last, so always, always put your money (however much or little you have) into well designed, good quality cupboards with provenance. Buy really good fittings that work smoothly and look robust. Try to use natural materials like wood and marble, as natural materials will wear in a characterful way rather than just wearing out. An old wooden worktop can hold
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memories and gain some character but a manmade material will just get tired and tatty and eventually need replacing. These are the things that make a true dream kitchen; nothing is quite as impressive as quality and good design. People may feel that a ‘dream kitchen’ means expensive, impressive and oozing with expensive features, but a perfect dream should be a calm and soothing experience where everything is easy and beautifully uncomplicated. The importance of keeping it simple means that you can do a few crazy or quirky things that are bright or bold, but always remember the well-known and utterly current words of wisdom by William Morris: ‘Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.’ ” For more information and to view deVOL’s kitchen ranges visit: www.devolkitchens.co.uk, or pay them a visit at Cotes Mill, Nottingham Road, Loughborough, LE12 5TL.
thebeaconmagazine.co.uk
3/5/15 10:59 AM
ANDREW GRANGER & CO
When it’s time to sell your home, we make it easy With high profile offices in Leicester, Market Harborough and Loughborough as well as Mayfair, London, we reach the right kind of buyers across Leicestershire and beyond. Our team of qualified professionals are skilled at presenting properties of all kinds for sale. Most of all, you can rely on us for genuinely personal service to help you every step of the way, which is why buyers and sellers come back to us again and again.
Chartered Surveyors, Property Management, Planning & Professional Services Andrew Granger & Co. 2 High Street, Loughborough, Leicestershire LE11 2PY thebeaconmagazine.co.uk
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| PROPERTY
PROPERT Y
Special
SO HOW DID HOUSE PRICES
N
CHANGE IN 2014?
ationwide’s January editions of “House Price” index, see Annual national house price growth continued to moderate at the start of 2015 • Annual house price growth slowed to 6.8% in January from 7.2% in December. House price growth slowed for the fifth month in a row, UK house prices rose by 0.3% in January. Commenting on the figures, Robert Gardner, Nationwide’s Chief Economist, said: “Annual house price growth continued to soften at the start of 2015, slowing from 7.2% in December to 6.8% in January.” This is the fifth month in a row in which annual growth has moderated, despite house prices increasing by 0.3% month on month in January. After taking account of seasonal factors, UK house prices are currently 2.4% above their pre-crisis peak. At a national level house price growth over the last 12 months had an average annual change of 8.5%, East Midlands the annual percentage change was 6.0%, average house price in East Midlands Q4 2014 was £155,747.
“ANNUAL HOUSE PRICE GROWTH CONTINUED TO SOFTEN AT THE START OF 2015, SLOWING FROM 7.2% IN DECEMBER TO 6.8% IN JANUARY.” What’s the current outlook for 2015 and beyond? With so many potential economic factors that may impact the UK house price growth for 2015 opinions vary dramatically, the BBC conducted a survey from a panel of experts in January 2015, predictions for 2015 growth ranges from 3%-5% with an average forecast around 4.0%. Meanwhile Savills predictions for mainstream markets growth for the whole UK was only 2% for 2015 followed by 5.0%, 5.0%, 3.0% and 3.0% for the prevailing 4 years. Forecast for East Midlands according to Savills are comparable to UK growth predictions.
SOME KEY POINTS: The Bank of England has held interest rates at 0.5% for the 71st month in a row and kept its stimulus programme of quantitative easing (QE) unchanged. Most forecasters now think interest rates will not rise before next year. Last month, the Office for National Statistics said the UK economy grew by a slowerthan-expected 0.5% in the last three months of 2014. Low oil prices and falling inflation in the UK have also removed any pressure on the Bank to raise interest rates. The meeting of the Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) in January saw all members of the Committee vote to hold interest rates at their current level. So-called interest rate “hawks” Ian McCafferty and Martin Weale had previously voted for a 0.25% rise in interest rates at each meeting of the MPC, since August last year. March’s MPC meeting will mark the sixth anniversary of the decision to cut interest rates to 0.5%. If interest rates remain unchanged at the March meeting, it will mark the fourth longest period of time without a change since the founding of the Bank of England in 1694.
Lomond Financial Services Ltd, Unit 10, The Ark Business Centre, Meadow Lane Industrial Estate, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE11 1JP t 01509 234133 email admin@lomondfs.co.uk
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3/5/15 11:00 AM
Lomond Financial Services Lomond Financial Services Ltd is an appointed representative of Personal Touch Financial Services Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
E N T E R TO
WIN!
LKD Leicester Kitchen Depot Ltd
Designing Your Lifestyle.
TO CELEBRATE INDUCTION COOKING BECOMING MORE POPULAR IN OUR DESIGNS, WE’RE OFFERING SOMEONE THE OPPORTUNITY TO WIN THIS AMAZING
siemens induction pan set worth over £100! For Further information about the products supplied by The Leicester Kitchen Depot please call 0116 2777388 or visit their website on www.leicesterkitchendepot.co.uk TO ENTER: Simply visit www.thebeaconmagazine.co.uk and select the competitions page. Subject to Terms & Conditions All entries must be received by the 31st May 2015.
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| 35 | 3/5/15 10:41 AM
| BUSINESS
PROPERT Y
Special CAPITAL GAINS
TAX Explained
CAPITAL GAINS TAX CAN BE DIFFICULT TO GET YOUR HEAD AROUND. FORTUNATELY THIS ISSUE MARTIN HILL OF BRAY & BRAY, CHARTERED TAX ADVISER FOR THE LAST 15 YEARS, IS ON HAND TO SHED SOME LIGHT.
Q: Do I have to pay Capital Gains Tax (“CGT”) when selling my home? A: Not usually. Most of the time, sales of houses that have been lived in by the owner will qualify for Principal Private Residence relief (“PPR”). There are, however, some exceptions to the rule, particularly if the whole area of the house and gardens exceed half a hectare – unless a larger area is of a “character appropriate” to having a bigger garden (tax law is full of exceptions to the exceptions!) If you have used a defined part of the property exclusively for business purposes (other than having a single lodger) then that proportion won’t benefit from PPR. Q: Does CGT apply if I dispose of a property (such as a buy-to-let or inherited property) that isn’t actually my home? A: Unless you lived in the property as your usual residence less than 3 years
before the sale or gift you may have to pay CGT. The CGT would be based on how much profit (ie “gain”) you made from selling the property. (There are rules about calculating a gain if you give the property away to someone other than a spouse, or sell it below market value.)
THERE ARE, HOWEVER, SOME EXCEPTIONS TO THE RULE... Q: How much tax do I have to pay? A: It is only the profit, or ‘gain’, in excess of the current Annual Exemption (£11,000 until 5th April 2015), which would be taxed. You can also deduct capital losses from previous tax years. Basic rate tax payers pay at 18%; everyone else pays 28%. Q: Do I still have to pay CGT if I am developing properties just so that I
can sell them on? A: If you are a property developer, you would not have to pay CGT. Instead, you would have to pay Income Tax if you are a partner or sole trader; or Corporation Tax if you have a limited company. Q: What CGT needs to be paid on items and property that I have inherited? A: You only pay CGT on gains that have arisen since it has been inherited. If you have a question and would like to speak to someone who can give you answers and explain specific reasons to you in plain English, please feel free to call me. You can contact me directly at our Market Harborough office on 01858 467 181 or via email at: mvthill@braybray.co.uk
Bray&Bray, Spa Place, 36-42 Humberstone Road, Leicester. LE5 0AE. t: 01858 467 181
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highlighting local luxury
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www.braybray.co.uk
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LKD Leicester Kitchen Depot
www.leicesterkitchendepot.co.uk Countesthorpe Road, South Wigston, LE18 4PJ /Leicesterkitchendepot
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@LKD_Kitchens T: 0116 2777 338 highlighting local luxury | 37 | 03/03/2015 15:17
| HOME & GARDEN
Sleep easy MAKE A UNIQUE STYLE STATEMENT IN YOUR BEDROOM WITH OUR COLLECTION OF CUSTOMISED BEDSTEADS AND HEADBOARDS. CHOOSE ANY OF OUR BEAUTIFUL DESIGNS, AND UPHOLSTER FROM A SELECTION OF 50 FABRICS IN 3 PRICE RANGES. ALL DESIGNS ARE AVAILABLE IN DOUBLE, KINGSIZE AND SUPER KINGSIZE.
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highlighting local luxury
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3/5/15 11:01 AM
TAKES CARE OF IT.. Beds buying guide Sleeping on an uncomfortable bed could cost you up to an hour's good sleep a night, according to Professor Chris Idzikowski of the London Sleep Assessment and Advisory Service. Our beds are hand made by some of Britain’s most established and experienced bed-makers, with a reputation for meeting the highest quality standards. Use this guide to help you choose the right one. We can even assemble your new bed, and take away the old mattress. How to choose your bed Try! We always recommend that you visit one of our shops to try out a bed before ordering online or by phone. Comfortably numb? A good way to check if the bed you are lying on is too soft, too hard, or just right is to lie on your back, placing your hand in the small
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of your back and then trying to move it about. If it moves too easily, the bed may be too hard for you; if it's a struggle to move your hand, then the bed is too soft. If you can move your hand with just a little resistance, the bed may be just right for you. Take it easy: take some time out and lie down. You spend a third of your life in bed, so it's vital that you make the right choice. Roll with it: try the bed in all of the sleeping positions you tend to use, not only on your back, and try a selection of beds for comparison. It takes two: if you share a bed, take your partner with you. Remember, it's important a new bed suits both of you. John Lewis, 2 Bath House Lane, Highcross Shopping Centre, Leicester, LE1 4SA t: 0844 6931 745 johnlewis.com/Leicester
highlighting local luxury
| 39 | 3/5/15 11:01 AM
HASSALL & SON LTD EST 1963
BUILDING & ROOFING CONTRACTORS • • • • • • • •
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thebeaconmagazine.co.uk
3/5/15 10:42 AM
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| HOME & GARDEN
RAY
Light OF
T
he lighting season is in full swing, so The Light House in Leicester have created an easy guide to this years’ popular trends, which are; a mixture of retro-industrial styles, bright fabrics and blown coloured glass explains Lighting Design Director Tim Chapman.... Retro-Industrial
These now cover all genres of fittings including table and floor lamps. The finishes tend to be “dirty” metals and reclaimed paint colours which give them all a very 1950s look. It is really refreshing that this style has reinvented itself in our homes when it has been previously confined to trendy bars and
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upmarket retail units. The increased popularity of rustic building materials has really encouraged this trend. Fabrics This year there’s a fabulous combination of colours and textures. Synthetics always offer a wide range of palettes and these have been joined by some great matt silks, with colourways across the full spectrum into fresh pastels and vivid dominant hues. The simplicity of the fittings design and their size really makes them into a real statement. Blown Glass This is always an opulent and imaginative decoration in lighting. With
new manufacturing processes there is a now an ability to tint the glass in other shapes; not just in a flat window pane form. This has led to exciting sculpted modern droplets which look stunning whether the fitting is switched on or off. When introduced to portables such as table lamps they are fast becoming a piece of Modern Art as well as a practical light fitting. Eco Friendly For the growing band of Eco friendly customers, I’m pleased to say that our new LED lamp portfolio includes every different lamp option as well as retro filament styles for use in more open fittings. The lamp colours are also far more user friendly, and their popularity is growing - outselling more traditional lamps which in comparison are less reliable and more costly to use. Good news for everybody I think! The Light House, 107 A/B Hinckley Road, Leicester. LE3 0TD T: 0116 2330303 W: lighthouse-leicester.co.uk
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3/5/15 11:02 AM
The Light House IMPORTERS INSTALLERS LIGHTING RETAILERS WHOLESALERS
YOUR LOCAL LIGHTING SPECIALIST LIGHTING DESIGN SERVICE AVAILABLE
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107 A/B Hinkley Road // Leicester, LE3 OTD www.lighthouse-leicester.co.uk sales@lighthouse-leicester.co.uk 0116 233 0303 Mon - Sat 9 - 5 // Sun 11 - 4 highlighting local luxury
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29/01/2015 15:18 14:36 03/03/2015
New Advert December - The Beacon.pdf
Painting & Decorating Services Domestic and Commercial
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09/01/2014
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 our large selection of fabric books from suppliers such as Blendworths, Prestigious, Clarke & Clarke, Voyage and Rufflette, or use your own fabric. Curtain poles and accessories. Full fitting service.
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Or call for a free estimate and friendly advice at
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Call Jackie or Paul on 01509 413207 or Email us at: sales@newboldcurtains.co.uk or visit our website www.newboldcurtainsandblinds.co.uk
FITTED BATHROOMS
Luxury bathrooms beautifully designed, expertly fitted
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03/03/2015 15:18
09:43
Steve Hills Design Ltd
“Quality Isn’t Expensive, It’s Priceless…”
Consultation, design and full installation service for kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms and studies for over 25 years Contact today on 07812 389 869 1 steve@stevehillsdesign.co.uk 1highlighting www.stevehillsdesign.co.uk local luxury | 75 |
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| HOME & GARDEN
RHS AWARD WINNER FRANCES HUNT, OF GOSCOTE NURSERIES, WHO GROW AND SOURCE RARE AND UNUSUAL PLANTS HERE IN THE HEART OF LEICESTERSHIRE, TALKS ABOUT GARDENING FOR NOVICES.
From the
potting shed
N
ational Gardening Week, April 13th to 19th is fast approaching, and a perfect time to pick up a spade, and have a go... Gardening is sometimes seen as a pastime of the older generation, but as a 30 year old female, I can vouch for gardening as a fun activity whatever age you might be! People can feel overwhelmed when they visit a Garden Centre or Nursery, not knowing exactly what to buy, but the key to having a garden that looks
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great all year round, is to visit these places regularly through the year, picking out a few shrubs that look great even in the depths of winter. There will always be someone on hand to give you advice if needed. There are 4 main categories of plants: Trees: Woody stemmed plants, usually above 15 feet high. Shrubs: Woody stemmed plants, whose above-ground growth persists through the winter, with buds forming on the stems in the spring.
Perennials or Herbaceous: Flowering plants that come back year after year, reshooting from the ground in spring. Annuals or Bedding: Prolific flowering plants often used for hanging baskets that flower all season long, but only survive for one year. Just to confuse us further, some trees, shrubs, and perennials can be evergreen, e.g. keep their leaves on all year round. A good Garden Centre or Nursery should have this information on plant labels, but if not, always ask for advice!
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3. Clay soil means difficult to grow anything.
Some aspects of gardening always get a bad press… wrongly! So let’s deal with a few of these myths right here: 1. More plants in a garden mean harder work to look after them. Of course, plants do need maintenance, and watering until they get established. But planting a border with a mixture of shrubs and
THE KEY TO HAVING A GARDEN THAT LOOKS GREAT ALL YEAR ROUND, IS TO VISIT GARDEN CENTRES REGULARLY THROUGH THE YEAR, perennials creates a space much easier to maintain than bare soil alone. Bare soil generates weeds… constantly through the growing
season, and you can soon lose the will to live when you weed one week, only to do it again the following week. 2. Plants need replanting or growing from seed every year. Only annuals or bedding plants need replacing every year. Using shrubs and perennial flowering plants will give you a good display of colour, and they will pop up again the following year! Try Verbena Bonariensis, Echinacea Purpurea, or Erysimum ‘Bowles Mauve’
For any questions on the plants mentioned, or to speak to an expert
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Actually clay soil is very high in nutrients; water filters away slowly retaining the nutrients, while sandy soil allows water through very easily, washing away the goodness. The pitfalls of clay soil are the claggy, compacted lumps in winter, and rock hard, often cracking soil during hot summers. But there are ways around it: Dig over in autumn, making sure that it is not too wet underfoot. Use composted bark or well- rotted manure will open up the structure, and a frost will also help to break down the large clots of earth once you’ve dug it over.
01509 812 121 or
frances@goscote.co.uk
highlighting local luxury
| 47 | 3/5/15 11:03 AM
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NURSERIES Nurserymen • Landscapers • Designers
Goscote Nurseries have been supplying unusual plants, and designing and building gardens throughout Leicestershire for 50 years. Celebrating our Golden Anniversary, 1965-2015. We welcome Stovey Contemporary Log burning stoves to the nursery, pull up a chair next to our log burner and see how well it burns! Pop down to our café, The Tea Garden, run by Norths Deli, where they serve delicious hand made cakes and lunches within the grounds of the garden.
Goscote Nurseries Syston Road, Cossington Leicestershire LE7 4UZ
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Nursery 01509 812 121 Café 01509 814 231 www.goscote.co.uk
18/02/2015 16:01 3/5/15 10:44 AM
Landscape Design and Construction Hollies House, 52 Main Street, Woodthorpe, Loughborough, Leicestershire. LE12 8UG
Email hortus@talktalk.net Phone 01509 211424 Mobile 07917 540177
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 87984_HORTUS_HP.indd 54
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ADVERTORIAL |
GARAGE DOORS:
Kerb Appeal
THE KEY TO
IT MAY SEEM A RELATIVELY MINOR ASPECT OF YOUR SELF-BUILD OR RENOVATION PROJECT BUT WITH THE POTENTIAL TO DRAMATICALLY ENHANCE KERB APPEAL, THE GARAGE DOOR SHOULD BE CAREFULLY CONSIDERED.
D
avid O’Mara at garage door manufacturer Hörmann offers his advice on what to look for. Up-and-over doors offer one of the best options for truly bespoke garage doors. Available in two styles, canopy - where the door lifts up and out - and retractable, which slides completely into the garage on tracks suspended from the ceiling, these doors can be chosen as open-for-infill frames that can be clad in almost any material. As with any style of garage door, up-and-over doors can be automated or manually operated, and are often less expensive than other types. It’s worth noting, however, that these doors require significant exterior space to open, so for houses with short driveways, an alternative may be more practical.
“ FO R A ST Y LE STATEM ENT O R I F H E AD R O O M I S LI M ITED, S I D E-S LI D I N G D O O R S AR E I D E AL .” Roller doors are a particularly popular option in the UK. Requiring no ceiling space and opening upwards, the door rolls up around a central drum. The garage will need to be able to accommodate the roller barrel but no overhead or wall tracks are required, making these a good choice if space is scarce. For integral garages, the door may need to be well insulated. Sectional doors are the best for this, as they come
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with seals around all four sides and can achieve U-values as low as 1.4W/m2K for the fitted unit, with insulated panels adding to the door’s overall strength and rigidity. If the garage opening is an unusual shape, such as an arch, sectional doors are the ones to choose. Fitted behind the opening, they work with any shape entrance and can provide a stylish finish to a garage’s facade. Although, like the retractable up and over option, sectional doors slide into tracks on the ceiling of the garage, so overhead space needs to be considered. For a style statement or if headroom is limited, side-sliding doors are ideal. They recess into tracks along the garage wall, offering a good alternative to the traditional sectional style. Decorative options, such as windows, frosted glass elements, textured surface finishes and assorted handles are also available. And if aesthetics are of the upmost importance, you may wish to consider a matching entrance door. Hörmann offers styles specifically designed to complement its wide range of garage doors. With a huge selection of doors on the market, it’s important to be able to differentiate between the various options. A high-quality product, carefully selected will not only add to a property’s appeal but also stand the test of time. Hörmann (UK) Limited Gee Road, Coalville, Leicestershire LE67 4JW t: 01530 513000 www.hormann.co.uk
highlighting local luxury
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Marpave Paving is a hard landscaping company. We install Driveways, Patios, Water Features including Ponds of all sizes, Decorative Features, Garden Walls, Decking & many other Hard
Steve Maloy Fully Qualified Tree Surgeon
0116 247 7708 | 07931 191 927 applestooaks@btinternet.com www.applestooakstreecare.co.uk
Untitled-5 1
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Landscaping projects. BEST LARGE PATIO
FOLLOW US ON FA C E B O O K M A R PAV E PAV I N G
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03/03/2015 15:18
ADVERTORIAL |
PV SOLAR SYSTEMS
W I LL TH E Y WO R K
For You?
GENERATING CLEAN ELECTRICITY, PV SOLAR SYSTEMS MAKE AN IMPORTANT CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS REDUCING THE UK’S CO2 EMISSIONS. BUT DID YOU KNOW THAT THEY CAN STILL MAKE A POSITIVE CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS YOUR FAMILY FINANCES TOO? SIMON BUTT OF RUN BY THE SUN EXPLAINS ALL…
T
he Government backed Feed in Tariff (FiT) scheme gives homeowners a payment for every unit (kWh) of electricity the solar array generates, and a payment for exporting the electricity. This income is guaranteed for 20 years, is tax free and index linked. Additionally your home will use some of the power produced, reducing your electricity bill. In the last 3 years the price of solar systems has fallen by more than 50%, and the price of electricity has risen. So even though the FiT payments are
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much lower than they were, a welldesigned PV solar system can pay for itself in 7 to10 years. More than 50% of UK homes are suitable - recent technical advances mean that it’s now possible to design smaller arrays with less modules, facing anywhere between East and West (rather than due South) that can generate energy daily, throughout the year. Insist on having a site shading analysis that will accurately estimate how much energy your solar array will produce. A typical 4.0kWp array will earn you
approximately £500 per annum in FiT and export payments, as well as reducing your electricity bill by £200 - £300 per year. A combined income of £700 to £800, inflation proofed for 20 years, for a total installation cost of between £6,000 to £8,000. While the pounds go back into your pocket, you are also saving the planet by a 1.5tonne (15 to 30%) reduction in your home’s carbon footprint. Perhaps it’s time you looked at PV solar again? Run By The Sun Ltd. 179 Knighton Road Leicester LE2 3TS T: 0116 270 1926 runbythesun.co.uk
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| HOME & GARDEN
MOVEMENT IS SO ‘IN’ THIS YEAR! SAYS POND & GARDEN SPECIALIST, MICHAEL WHEAT
Pond
LIFE S
un shining, flowers blooming, bees buzzing and birds filling our gardens with the sound of spring. This really is the best time of year for our gardens. As soon as you see the daffodils you know the warm weather is coming, and attention switches to: “What shall we do with the garden this year?” The best designed gardens, with the most colourful planting and thought provoking patios, can sometimes miss something so crucial in brining your garden to life, and that is…. movement. In particular running water, which could be a thrilling water feature or an exhilarating pond. Ponds can really bring gardens to life; adding texture,
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colour, movement and most exciting of all, life to your garden. All local wildlife will take an interest in a pond: birds, frogs, newts, fish (if you add them) and dragon-flies will be attracted by water in the garden. So the next question is: how, and what type? Wildlife Pond: You could just add a pond by digging a hole and adding a suitable liner. We use either greenseal or firestone rubber but always fit 1mm thick to be safe. We also recommend you use a quality underlay to protect the liner. We always recommend you think about having some power near the pond even if you don’t plan to have any fish, because having movement in the water will stop it from getting stagnant. For small ponds and water features an ‘all in one pump’, UV and filter, will keep a small pond clear all year round.
Fish Pond: More consideration needs to be given for pumps and filtration, and its fair to say; particularly in the pond industry; that you get what you pay for. We highly recommend Oase equipment as it comes with a good warranty and may cost a little more, but they use less power so save you money in the long run. Don’t like frogs and creepy crawlies? Then what about a water feature to add movement to the garden. You can enclose the pool so ‘green water’ doesn’t become an issue, while you give your garden some much needed movement and sound. So this season, don’t stand still… Add some life and movement to your garden! Michael Wheat Pond & Garden Design, 4 Gladstone Street, Fleckney, Leicestershire, LE8 8AG 0116 240 3735 www.michaelwheat.co.uk
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03/03/2015 15:18
Professional Trees, Hedges & Stumps Call now for your FREE no obligation quotation • • • • •
Full Range of Tree, Hedge & Stump Services Tree Preservation Order & Conservation Area Work Qualified Specialists - All work completed to BS3998 Fully Insured No Job Too Large or Too Small
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C U P PA
W | 56 |
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Gutter Cleaning Services
We use advanced technology, linking vacuum systems and remote cameras to provide a second to none gutter vacuuming and repairs service from the safety of the ground. • Gutter Cleaning and Repairs • Fascia and Soffit Cleaning • Drainage unblocking, Repairs & Construction
T: 01530 452933 M: 07564 330763 www.sdpguttercleaningservices.co.uk
Anyone….?
02/03/2015 12:13 88541_SDP_QTR.indd 1
V I NTAG E TE A U K , A N I N D EP EN D ENT TE A CO M PA N Y BAS ED I N TH E H E A RT O F WA RW I CKS H I R E, V ERY K I N D LY S ENT U S S O M E O F TH EI R D ELI CI O U S , S P ECIA LIT Y TE AS R ECENTLY, S O W E’ V E B EEN B U SY S A M P LI N G TH EM H ER E I N TH E O FFI CE . e are constantly bombarded about the health benefits of certain foods we consume, but we often forget about the good old cup of tea. There’s a host of natural benefits to your body health regardless of the flavour chosen, from giving you renewed energy levels to detoxifying the system; tea is your natural answer. Vintage Tea UK source their tea from ethical tea harvests in the most beautiful parts of Sri-Lanka and put simply, they are unlike anything you would have tasted before….
SDP
25/02/2015 14:36
imagine loose leaf tea in a convenient eco-friendly silk tea bag! Being a huge green tea fan and Jasmine in particular, I was really impressed with their ‘Petalberry’ tea – and their “floral fun for the grown-ups” description is very apt for this rather delicious tea. They also sent us some black and traditional tea infusions; Springtime and Mint Infusion. The Mint Infusion is incredibly refreshing and probably my personal favourite of the bunch. I was out voted though, as Springtime, the black tea with its mellow mix of maple, saff flower and real marigold petals, was hands down the most popular choice in the office! Why not try them for yourself though – and our friends at Vintage Tea UK are offering Beacon readers 10% off any purchases. Order online using the code beacon10 at vintageteauk. com – valid until 30th April 2015.
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MOTORS | W H I CH CA R WO U LD A M OTO R I N G W R ITER R ECO M M EN D AS TH E B EST M ED I U M S IZED FA M I LY CA R ? A N D R E W W R I G HT G I V ES YO U TH E A N S W ER TO TH I S FR EQ U ENTLY AS K ED TH I S Q U ESTI O N …
M A I N T A I N I N G
Focus
“So, if you are in the market for a medium-sized family car, the new Focus is a very fine choice indeed.”
A
s a motoring writer, I am frequently asked this question… There are countless pitfalls in the answers I could offer. It is easy to offend a person with perceived badge prestige because many fabulous cars come from mainstream brands. Sometimes there are geographical leanings: “Ooh, I could never buy from Korea”, even though their television is from there. There is also the danger of suggesting a marque which has not been a hit with family or friends: “Jim’s is so unreliable”, even though Jim’s car may never have had a service in its life. “A model I never had any qualms about recommending was Ford’s Focus.” With a vast range of engines and trims, a high level of capability and wide dealer network, the Focus really did tick most boxes for most people. That is until the competition upped its game over the last couple of years,
particularly around ‘infotainment systems’ and interior trim. Even so, it remained the UK’s second best seller last year. For 2015, Ford has stepped-up - the new Focus has received some TLC and is back on top form. Gone is the busy, silvered central console with monochrome display; it is all sophisticated matt black with a smart, well-organized touch screen. Outside, the transformation is cosmetic but very effective. The simple, chromed grill is elegant and fresh and brings the Focus in line with the Ford family look. The rest of the body is gently restyled too and the results are smart. There are two engines which stand out in the range: One is the efficient 1.6 diesel and the other is the rather fabulous EcoBoost 1-litre petrol. This small engine (it would actually fit on a sheet of A4 paper) emits similar power to many
engines twice its size just a decade ago. It’s lively and brings out the best in the car’s exceptional handling. All models are sensibly-specified but the Titanium X has it all. Our test car, fitted with the Driver Assistance Pack, has everything from lane departure warning to a lane keeping aid which gently draws the car back in line should one wander out of lane. The optional heated steering wheel has certainly been a luxury during the cold mornings and the rest of the features are certainly a match for any premium brand. Words by Andrew Wright to read more from Andrew visit www.motorwriter.com
PUBLIC CAR AUCTIONS (MON & WED) - UP TO A 1000 CARS EVERY WEEK MANHEIM BRUNTINGTHORPE | BATH LANE | LEICESTERSHIRE | LE17 5QS | WWW.MANHEIMREMARKETING.CO.UK
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| TRAVEL
Love
FALL IN
WITH
VERONA
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3/5/15 11:09 AM
VERONA IS KNOWN AS THE “CITY OF LOVE”, FROM THE FAMOUS SHAKESPEARE TRAGIC LOVE STORY OF ROMEO AND JULIET. A GREAT WAY TO REWARD OR INCENTIVISE YOUR STAFF WITH AN UNFORGETTABLE 3 DAY BREAK IN THE BEAUTIFUL CITY OF VERONA
the beautiful Verona square of Piazza Brà, the magnificent Roman arena and of course the house of Juliet, with the famous balcony. • Half day tour to Lake Garda (30 minutes from Verona) including lunch. With fabulous views of Medieval Castles around the shoreline and the rocky cliffs above the Lake.
H
i2events have put together some fabulous short tours for businesses to use as a reward or competition prize by achieving or winning this 3 day leisure break. It is a great way to inspire your staff or reward your top players, which is much more meaningful than a cash reward or voucher. The tours are for a minimum of 6 people and tailor made for every group, for every achievement or occasion you want to celebrate, and are equally suited to a group of friends looking for a fun weekend or mini break too. Here is a tempting example: “3 days in Verona, a beautiful city in northern Italy, which is impossible not to be enchanted by its elegance, history, and the beauty of its landscapes and river.” The 3 day tour can include: • 3-night 4* accommodation (including breakfast) • Half day cooking class making pasta and authentic dishes from the Venetian region. Choose lunch or dinner, which you eat afterwards with some of the famous wines of the region. • Wine tasting matching the dishes prepared and the famous Valpolicella and Soave, are both produced in the area. • Then a visit to the cellars producing Valpolicella, Amarone and Soave wine as well as extra virgin olive oil. An amazing experience where you will taste wines and experience the traditional production process. • Then time for an unforgettable Walking Tour of Verona: There is a lot to see, and all within walking distance, like
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Have we tempted you? That is just one example of the packages we can put together for you and an inexpensive way to reward your top sales people that they will talk about for a long time afterwards. Best of all, it’s a business expense. Or why not get together with a few friends; 3 or 4 couples would be perfect. Price guide £360 per person sharing double or twin room, Single £420 excluding flights. Contact us now for more information Tel. 0116 240 2330 or info@hi2events.co.uk www.hi2events.co.uk
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| 59 | 3/5/15 11:09 AM
| FOOD & DRINK
ANISHA MISTRY TALKS TEA - THE QUINTESSENTIAL INFUSION OF EVERY CLASS IN GREAT BRITAIN SINCE THE 18TH CENTURY.
TIME FOR
T
Tea
ea making is an art that is unique, calming and happily warms delicate cups with fragrant aromas to sweeten our palate. So how do we choose our favourite flavour? Drinking tea has diversified into roomy tea bags, packed with full flavoured tea leaves, releasing tonnes of glorious flavours, and here are some of the best: Vintage Tea UK have a full array of flavoursome teas: their wonderful ‘morning after’ teas unfurl with fury releasing wonderful, refreshing cups of relaxation, perfect at any time of day to sit back and relax. Another delightful tea is Whittard’s 01163 18 39 14
Baked Apple; a delicious blend of apples with nutty almonds and hazelnut with the sweetness of creamy cinnamon. The flavour is more authentic to apples, with a distinct taste of tea which some brands lack. The subtle hint of cinnamon is wonderfully warming on those cold and windy mornings and pairs well with brown sugar if you like it sweet and want to savour the taste of baked apple. For those of you who have a taste for something a little stronger, The London Tea Company’s Assam brewed Vanilla Chai will definitely tickle your taste buds. The blend of traditional, aromatic spices used for Indian
anisha@anishamistry.co.uk
anishamistry.co.uk
Masala Chai infuses perfectly with the sweetness of the vanilla, making the blend perfectly smooth and refined. For extra creaminess use full fat milk to create a thick, luscious brew for your morning pick me up. Imperial Teas Mint Tea is extremely light and calming. What makes this tea extra special is that it isn’t like any other mint tea. It is delicately light green, gentle and deliciously mintyflavoured with added mint oils making a soothing cup of tea which is tonguetingling. Enjoy the freshness of the mint as you relax that little bit longer. So here’s to the rediscovery of a seriously good cup of tea!
/ANISHARMISTRY
Vouchers
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10%OFF
QUOTE ‘BEACON10’
When ordering online at vintageteauk.com Offer ends 30th April 2015 T&C apply.
Tel: 07415896033 I info@vintageteauk.com I www.vintageteauk.com
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3/5/15 11:10 AM
The Falcon Inn
A tenancy is available at The Falcon Inn, Long Whatton, Leicestershire, LE12 5DG THE FALCON INN enjoys a great location in the middle of an attractive village, 10 minutes’ drive from both East Midlands Airport and Donington Park racing circuit. It is a cosy, comfortable pub with dark wood beams and a large fireplace. At the far end of the building is the dining area. The Falcon currently has a healthy drinks trade and an established food business. To the rear of the pub are a converted stable block and an ex-school house that contain 11 bedrooms. Also to the rear are a sizeable car park and a terrace bar. In addition, on the first floor there is a private meeting room. We are looking to invest in the site to maximise this pub’s potential, and would be interested to hear your vision and views.
The Falcon has an established dining business and 11 letting room
Why choose Everards?
n Award-winning tenant
n All pubs maintained
support, from HR and legal advice to beer and cellar management.
n An independent company
n One-to-one assistance via
your own Business Development Manager. n ‘Try before you buy’ 14:47
scheme – spend time working in an Everards pub before committing.
to a high standard. owned by the same family since 1849. OUR VALUES... n Straightforward n Supportive n Ambitious n Responsive n Integrity
FEATURES Lounge, kitchen, meeting room, 11 letting rooms, patio area, outbuildings, car park. PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION: Three bedrooms, lounge, kitchen/dining room, bathroom, office.
INTERESTED? We’d love to hear from you. Call Everards on 0800 056 4111 or visit www.everards.co.uk thebeaconmagazine.co.uk
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highlighting local luxury
|6 |
03/03/2015 15:18
WIN A VIP VINEYARD TOUR & WINE TASTING* PLUS MYSTERY GIFT WORTH £25
E N T E R TO
WIN! Offered by Kingfishers’ Pool vineyard in Leicestershire. The vineyard is not usually open to the public, but this is a special treat for the lucky winner All you have to do is look at: www.rothleywine.com and answer these 2 easy questions:
1)
Name a shop where Rothley wine can be purchased
2)
What is the name of our 2014 rosé wine?
Kingfishers’ Pool is located on the slopes of Rothley Brook with 25 rows of vines. The award winning; sparkling, still-white and rosé wines are available in local shops and restaurants. * Tour & wine tasting for up to five people. For Further information about the products supplied by Rothley Wine Ltd please call 07841397599 or visit their website on www.rothleywine.com
TO ENTER: Simply visit www.thebeaconmagazine.co.uk and select the competitions page. Subject to Terms & Conditions All entries must be received by the 31st May 2015.
Rothley Wine Ltd
Kingfishers’ Pool Vineyard in the heart of Charnwood Forest
Award winning white, rosé and sparkling wines Vineyard is not open to the public, so we can deliver wine to Rothley and surrounding villages. Wines are for sale at David North’s delicatessen on Station Road, Rothley, and other shops and restaurants. For more information please visit our webiste.
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For a promotional voucher for local residents please email us at www.rothleywine.com thebeaconmagazine.co.uk 07841 397599
highlighting local luxury rothleywine@btinternet.com
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10/02/2015 14:47 3/5/15 10:47 AM
FOOD & DRINK |
WE WENT ALONG TO THE BELMONT HOTEL IN LEICESTER CITY, TO INTERVIEW THEIR HEAD CHEF, LEON FOX AND FIND OUT THEIR SECRETS OF A PERFECT AFTERNOON TEA...
HOW TO CREATE THE PERFECT Afternoon Tea…
four layers are definitely better than two, carrot cake, scones with jam and cream, lemon drizzle cake, and a raspberry syllabub in tiny pots, adds to the colour of the display and an unconventional taste. Leon’s specialty is an orange and almond olive oil cake that is cut into small circles and decorated with caramelised orange peel. The Devil is in the Detail: Afternoon Tea should be served on china tea plates, with matching cups and saucers and a pretty lace napkin.
" CL AS S I C CLE AN FL AVO U R S CUT I NTO CO LU M N S WO R K B EST "
T
radition and style are the key ingredients of a perfect Afternoon Tea and give a great excuse to spend a few hours with a best friend, a treat for your Mum, or an informal gathering like a Baby Shower or Hen Party.
white and brown bread to add colour. The fillings should be very traditional: smoked salmon and cream cheese with cucumber, cheese and chutney, ham and mustard and of course; egg and cress.
Location The setting needs to be relaxed but traditional, a café just won’t do, and The Orient Express or Ritz Hotel are great settings, but a little too far away, so we went along to The Belmont Hotel in Leicester City, to interview their Head Chef, Leon Fox and find out their secrets of a perfect Afternoon Tea... Ingredients: Sandwiches need to be finger sized – definitely not triangles – and have the crusts removed, with a mixture of
ENTER TO
WIN!
“Classic clean flavours cut into columns work best, before the more exotic flavours of the cakes and pastries” Leon told us. Cakes should range from classic favourites, to a few unusual and modern ones to add interest and variety. Victoria sponge is a must, and
You can pick up a collection of 1920s and 1930s china from junk shops and charity shops if you want to do it yourself at home. Tea should be loose tea made in a pot, and not tea bags. Always pour the milk into the cups first, to make sure that the boiling tea doesn’t crack the delicate china. Sugar should be served in lumps, with a small silver spoon or tweaser to pick them up. Cake forks are essential; we don’t need sticky fingers when out wearing our designer suits and silk blouses!
The Belmont Hotel, offer a uniquely contemporary approach to Afternoon Tea – their trademark picnic bench presentation (above), gives a modern twist to this quintessentially English experience. They are kindly offering a FREE contemporary Afternoon Tea for 4 people as a competition prize – and we know what an amazing prize you will win, so get your entries in now… You can book a Belmont style Afternoon Tea, for just £13.95 each, plus just £5 if you would like a glass of Champagne to start! Book on 0116 254 4773 or email : events@belmonthotel.co.uk The Belmont Hotel, De Montfort Street, Leicester, LE1 7GR www.belmonthotel.co.uk
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highlighting local luxury
| 63 | 3/5/15 11:10 AM
Award Winning Marquee and Event Hire Contemporary and traditional Marquees Furniture - Lighting - Styling
Contact us on 01509 270444 | Email enquiries to: hello@bradgate-events.co.uk | www.bradgate-events.co.uk
Make Easter a family celebration! Tuck into a delicious three course Sunday lunch at ‘Leicestershire’s Hotel of the Year’ Sunday 5th April Served from 12.30pm – 2.00pm Adults £16.95 • Children under 12 £8.50 • Under 5’s free
Free Easter egg for child! To book call 01509 633014 www.burleigh-court.co.uk
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highlighting local luxury
| 65 | 3/5/15 12:56 PM
| TRAVEL
Ultimate ROADTRIP ROADTRIP THIS ISSUE, THE EXPERTS AT KUONI LEICESTER HAVE HAND-PICKED FIVE OF THEIR FAVOURITE SELFDRIVES FOR US. FOLLOW THEIR LEAD, OR FEEL FREE TO MIX IT UP, ADD DESTINATIONS, STAY LONGER – WHY NOT LET THEM TAILOR-MAKE YOUR ULTIMATE ROAD TRIP FROM SCRATCH.
Route 66 Self Drive Name a road in America and Route 66 will pop up first in most people’s minds. Motoring the ‘Mother Road’ is probably the most iconic road trip in the world but most of the original route has been bypassed by modern interstates and driving it now often means seeking out this less-visited highway snaking across America, taking you from Chicago to Los Angeles. Route Highlights: • Gaze over the Chicago skyline and discover over 50 buildings during an Architectural River Cruise. • A salute to Route 66, visit the Cadillac Ranch art installation, which looks as if cars have been thrown from the sky with their bonnets stuck in the dirt. • Drive through Navajo Indian Country to the Grand Canyon and feel your stomach lurch on the Skywalk or take a helicopter ride into the canyon.
New England Explorer Images of golden leaves and a natural, rugged beauty spring to mind when you mention New England but boy is there a lot more to this area than a kaleidoscope of colours. Capture images of South Portland’s two beautiful lighthouses; experience hiking and mountain biking in Rutland’s Green Mountains – or skiing and snowboarding in Killington, Mt Snow or Stowe. You’ll find miles of beaches and the freshest seafood in Cape Cod and Falmouth – so don’t miss the lobster roll which is a favourite here. Route Highlights: • Walk the Freedom Trail in Boston, following the red brick road. • Go whale-watching in Boston or Cape Cod. • Take a ferry over to Martha’s Vineyard to see the picture perfect gingerbread style houses.
Kuoni at John Lewis, (located on the 1st floor, near menswear) 2 Bath House Lane, Highcross Shopping Centre, Leicester, LE1 4SA
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thebeaconmagazine.co.uk
3/5/15 11:11 AM
Southern Charm If music pulses through your veins, head to the southern states and experience live country, soul, blues and jazz music pouring out from every bar. Discover the birth place of the blues in Memphis or take a tour of Graceland. In Nashville, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame to admire costumes, guitars and memorabilia from music greats; and visit the French Quarter in New Orleans. Route Highlights: • Tour the recording studios of Music Row in Nashville – perhaps even recording your own song –and discover the Music Hall of Fame. • The spirit of the Old South lives on in New Orleans where you can take a cruise up the Mississippi onboard a paddlewheel steamboat. • Along the north of Florida’s glittering Gulf Coast, relax on the stunning white sands of Fort Walton Beach.
Classic California This is a classic self-drive along Highway 1 and great for honeymooners. You can stop off at small coastal towns and have the option, from San Francisco, to wander through the giant redwoods in Muir Woods or taste Californian wine in one of the vineyards in Sonoma County. Route Highlights: • Ride San Francisco’s cable cars, visit Alcatraz and admire the sunrise over the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. • Monterey Bay Peninsular is home to the famous 17-Mile Drive, one of the most scenic journeys in the world. • In San Diego, wander through the historic Gaslamp Quarter, past Little Italy’s shops and cafes or visit the Air & Space Museum.
National Park Adventure This epic and rugged road trip is the great outdoors at its best with gobsmacking scenery to boot. Start your adventure among the neon lights of Las Vegas before heading for Lake Powell near Page, America’s second largest manmade lake, great for watersports. Moab oozes adventure, from rockclimbing to whitewater rafting; and don’t miss Springdale, the gateway to Zion National Park, with its thundering waterfalls and 15-mile long Zion Canyon. Route Highlights: • Bryce Canyon’s jagged orange landscape, which looks like a city skyline carved out of rock. • Lake Powell’s 96 canyons and Rainbow Bridge – the world’s largest natural arch. You can also visit Antelope Canyon. • Zion’s spectacular trails, which can be explored on foot, bike or horseback.
t : 0116 3552602 w : www.kuoni.co.uk e : jlleicester.sales@ kuoni.co.uk
thebeaconmagazine.co.uk
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| 67 | 3/5/15 11:11 AM
| NOTICE BOARD
YO U R LOCAL N EWS & E NTE RTAI N M E NT G U I D E TO TH E B EST E VENTS I N TH E REG I O N ... CHARITY
H Ö R M A N N S I G N S U P T O H E L P C LO S E T H E D O O R O N D E M E N T I A
COALVILLE-BAS ED GAR AG E AND INDUSTRIAL D O OR MANUFACTURER HÖRMANN AIM TO R AIS E £3 0,0 0 0 FOR AL ZHEIMER ’ S SO CIET Y IN 2015.
H
ormann have planned a variety of challenges, from karaoke and bake-off events to the physically intense Farmageddon Run Brooksby in April. Their UK-wide Dealer network is encouraged to join in through various sales initiatives. Dementia affects around 44% of the population and is the biggest killer of women and 3rd biggest killer of men in the UK.
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Managing Director David Newcombe, whose late father had vascular dementia, said: “I’ve seen what a cruel condition dementia is, so I can personally appreciate the importance of Alzheimer’s Society’s work.” As well as raising funds, Hörmann will also run sessions for any of its staff who wish to become Dementia Friends. A national initiative, Dementia Friends is funded by the Cabinet Office and
highlighting local luxury
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Department of Health for England, and run by Alzheimer’s Society. It teaches people what it is like to live with the condition and how small actions can help, such as being patient at a check out if someone is taking a while to pay. Ray Nash, Senior Regional Corporate Fundraising Executive at Alzheimer’s Society commented: “Partnerships with organisations like Hörmann are essential to continue our fight against dementia and
support all those affected by it. With their help, we can assist people living with dementia today to have the best possible quality of life, whilst searching for a future cure. We’re incredibly excited for the year ahead.”
thebeaconmagazine.co.uk
3/5/15 11:12 AM
Hairspray ENTERTAINMENT
14TH APRIL TO 18TH APRIL 2015 - 7.30PM & 2.30PM SAT MATINEE
T
he Esna Players Are Very Proud To Present The Local Premiere Of Hairspay! Its 1962, the 50s are out and change is in the air. Baltimore’s ‘Tracy Turnblad’, a big girl with big hair and an even bigger heart, has only one passion dancing. She wins a spot on the local TV dance programme, The Corny Collins Show, and, overnight, is transformed from outsider to irrepressible teen celebrity. But can a trendsetting hair-hopper like Tracy get her massively shy Mom out of the apartment, beat evil Amber to be crowned Miss Hairspray, integrate Corny’s show for good AND win the heart of local heartthrob Link Larkin, all without denting her ‘do? If anyone can, Tracy can! Due To The High Demand For Tickets, Book Early To Avoid Disappointment!!!
ENTERTAINMENT
R E T U R N TO T H E FORBIDDEN PLANET CURVE TUE 7 – SAT 11 APR The adored and critically acclaimed Olivier Award-winning rock spectacular comes to Curve as part of a much anticipated 25th anniversary UK tour. Inspired by Shakespeare’s The Tempest, and packed with rock ‘n’ roll classics such as Heard It Through the Grapevine, Young Girl, Great Balls of Fire and Gloria, with stunning special effects and a brilliant cast of actor musicians, this is a great night out to remember! Founding member of Queen and a worldrenowned guitarist Brian May will appear via video projection as the Newscaster. Bring everyone…dress up fancy and get ready for blast off! To book tickets visit curveonline.co.uk
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| 69 | 3/5/15 11:12 AM
| NOTICE BOARD ENTERTAINMENT
KILWORTH HOUSE THEATRE PRESENTS:
‘Singin’ In The Rain’
B
KILWORTH HOUSE WEDNESDAY 3RD JUNE TO SUNDAY 19TH JULY 2015 ook early because they expect all the seats to sell out by the end of April, so put this in your diaries right
now… Screenplay By Betty Comden and Adolph Green. Songs By Nacio Herb Brown and Arthur Freed, based on the classic Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer film, by special arrangement with Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures, Inc. This production by arrangement with Josef Weinberger Limited on behalf of Music Theatre International of New York. Directed by Mitch Sebastian. Adapted from the 1952 movie of the same name, is set in Hollywood in the 1920’s, when the silver screen found its voice and left silent movies – and some of its stars – behind! Packed
full of charm, romance, comedy and tinseltown glamour, this spectacular show focuses on romantic lead Don Lockwood, his sidekick Cosmo Brown, aspiring actress Kathy Selden and Lockwood’s leading lady Lina Lamont, whose less-than-dulcet vocal tones make her an unlikely candidate for stardom in talking pictures!
One the world’s best loved movies, ‘Singin’ In The Rain’ features all the songs from the glorious MGM score including ‘Good Morning’, ‘Make ‘em Laugh’, ‘You Stepped Out Of A Dream’, ‘You Are My Lucky Star’ and the showstopping: ‘Singin’ in the Rain’. This light-hearted spoof of frantic Hollywood – as the advent of sound changes all the movie making rules and Monumental Studios prepares its romantic epic ‘The Duelling Cavalier’ – includes some of the best-loved comedy routines, dance numbers and love ballads ever written. ‘Singin’ In the Rain’ is quite simply 24 carat classic entertainment. Prices range from £30 to £38 per ticket kilworthhousetheatre.co.uk
ENTERTAINMENT
Killer Queen DE MONTFORT HALL 15TH MAY
K
iller Queen have been performing their tribute to Queen’s concert since 1993. Their expert musicianship, extraordinary energy and accurate portrayal of the world’s greatest
RAWLINS ACADEMY Inspiring learning
Lifelong Learning at Rawlins Academy
live band have rightfully earned Killer Queen the title of Queen tribute royalty. Thrilling sell-out audiences across the globe from the UK to Moscow, Killer Queen recreates the high energy, powerful phenomenon that was Queen live. Fronted by Patrick Myers as Freddie Mercury, Time Out described Patrick’s resemblance to Freddie Mercury as “Spooky,” his uncanny likeness was further proven when he recorded a number one hit single singing as Freddie Mercury on Fat Boy Slim’s record The Real Life. This quality, combined with a powerful 3 1/2 octave tenor range, expert musicianship and dynamic stage presence, has captivated audiences the world over. “This guy is not to be missed.” Editor Brian May demontforthall.co.uk
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Arts Exercise Leisure First Aid Creative Crafts ICT & Programming
Evening & daytime classes for adults
For full information please visit Rawlins website at www.rawlinsacademy.org.uk call 01509 622827 or email communityed@rawlinsacademy.org.uk Rawlins Academy, Loughborough Rd, Quorn, Leicestershire, LE12 8DY
thebeaconmagazine.co.uk
JOIN TODAY AND SAY YES TO SAVINGS! Costco is a membership warehouse club that sells a wide selection of top quality brand name merchandise at low warehouse prices.
Trade Membership* To join Costco and start saving please provide evidence of trading in the form of either a VAT Registration Certificate or two other pieces of business stationery (cheque, letterhead, invoice), PLUS a current business utility bill (electricity, gas, telephone, water). The annual membership fee for Standard Trade Membership is £20 (plus VAT), which includes a complimentary card for your spouse or domestic partner.
Individual Membership* To join Costco and start saving please provide your employee ID card or current pay slip to prove your employment, PLUS a current utility bill (electricity, gas, telephone, water) or a bank statement addressed to your home. The annual membership fee for Standard Individual Membership is £25 (plus VAT), which includes a complimentary card for your spouse or domestic partner.
Executive Membership* The annual membership fee for Executive Trade Membership is £50 (plus VAT), which also includes a complimentary card for your spouse or domestic partner. Executive Trade Members earn a 2% Reward on most purchases, up to a maximum of £400 per year, and receive this in their annual renewal notice, to use against goods in the warehouse.
Membership Criteria applies. Membership must be obtained before purchases can be made. Costco accepts cash, debit card, cheque or American Express
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Costco Leicester Westmoreland Ave, Thurmaston Leicester Leicestershire LE4 8PH
T: 0116 269 0730
E: marketing123@costco.co.uk www.costco.co.uk
JN8486
The annual membership fee for Executive Individual Membership is £55 (plus VAT), which also includes a complimentary card for your spouse or domestic partner. Executive Individuals earn a 2% Reward on most purchases up to a maximum of £300 per year, and receive this in their annual renewal notice, to use against goods in the warehouse.
3/5/15 11:28 AM
Open Morning 21st March, 9.30am to 12 noon
• Ranked first locally for added value at post 16 • Students of all ages make real progress • Make the move now for your child to really experience and benefit from our added value • Co-educational 3-11, girls only 11-18
Book your tour now – limited places available For more information or to request a prospectus please contact Our Lady’s Convent School, Gray Street, Loughborough LE11 2DZ
01509 638282
Tel: Web: www.OLCS.leics.sch.uk Email: findoutmore@olcs.uk.net Member of ISA
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thebeaconmagazine.co.uk
3/5/15 11:29 AM
NOTICE BOARD | ENTERTAINMENT
A WORD WITH THE CAST OF
THE SECRET DIARY OF
ADRIAN MOLE AGED 13 ¾
The Musical
WITH REHEARSALS NOW IN FULL SWING, WE POPPED ALONG TO CURVE TO MEET THE FOUR TALENTED YOUNG LEICESTERSHIRE ACTORS, WHO HAVE SECURED THEMSELVES A ROLE IN THIS BRAND NEW MUSICAL, WHICH LAUNCHES ITS PREMIER IN THE CITY THIS MONTH.
A
fter seeing off some fierce competition from over 400 other hopefuls, Joel FossardJones, Lulu-Mae Pears, Kwame Kandekore & Edward Cross, were all super excited to take on the challenge. 13 year old Edward Cross from Burbage, who will play the role of Barry Kent, said his Dad was even more excited than him, when they received the news that he been chosen to join the cast. And with many other, experienced actors auditioning, was genuinely delighted to be selected. The role of Pandora will be played by Lulu-Mae,
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of Willoughby Waterleys, also 13 and no stranger to the stage at Curve, as she previously played Pepper in Annie – although apparently not a typical casting, as she says she normally plays the “sweeter roles”! The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13 ¾ was Sue Townsend’s first novel published in 1982. With over 20 million copies sold worldwide and spawning 7 sequel Adrian Mole novels, many of which the young actors have been busily swotting up on, to help them get better acquainted with their characters. “Finding the right actors to step into the shoes of Sue
Townsend’s iconic characters has been an invigorating and rewarding task.” Director, Luke Sheppard With four great training days in London under their belts, they were all certainly starting to feel excited about the prospect of performing to their Leicestershire home crowd. With book and lyrics by Jake Brunger and music and lyrics by Pippa Cleary, this brand new musical of Sue Townsend’s best seller, directed by Luke Sheppard, will open on 17 March 2015 and runs until 4 April 2015.
highlighting local luxury
| 73 | 3/5/15 11:13 AM
| NOTICE BOARD
KILWORTH HOUSE THEATRE
T
here’s a special aura and magic about open-air theatre on a beautiful English summer’s evening and nowhere better to experience that magic than amidst the magnificent surroundings of the Kilworth Estate in South Leicestershire A stunning open air theatre Kilworth House Theatre - now in its 8th season - is dedicated to producing and presenting large scale professional musical theatre, set in the heart of the thirty-eight acre Kilworth estate belonging to the award-winning and luxurious Kilworth House Hotel. In a wooded glade close to the lake, the theatre itself is equally ENTERTAINMENT impressive with 550 comfortable padded seats protected against the elements by a magnificent sail-like canopy. Again unusually, the stage area is also protected by a similar canopy, so that no performance need ever be cancelled because of adverse weather. The 2015 Season opens with the spectacular, Award winning musical ‘Singin’ In The Rain’ running from 3rd June – 19th July which includes some of the best-loved comedy routines, dance numbers and love ballads ever written, and of course, the show-stopping ‘Singin’ In The Rain’. Their second production is the all-singing, all-dancing musical comedy ‘Legally Blonde’ which runs from 20th August – 20th September. Winner of no less than 7 major awards – including Best Musical 2011 (Olivier Awards) – it is the funniest and most fabulous musical around. To enhance the whole experience, guests have the option of dining pre-show in the beautifully ornate Victorian Orangery of the Hotel, bringing a picnic to enjoy in the spectacular grounds of the estate or alternatively just relaxing pre-show with a drink from the theatre bar.
“Kilworth House is a total delight, perhaps the best-kept secret in British Theatre.”
2015 SEASON
3RD JUNE – 19 TH JULY
20TH AUG – 20TH SEPT
TICKETS from £30 - £38 BOX OFFICE 01858 881 939 Opening hours: Mon - Fri, 10am - 4pm OR BOOK ONLINE AT www.kilworthhousetheatre.co.uk KILWORTH HOUSE HOTEL & THEATRE LUTTERWORTH ROAD NORTH KILWORTH LEICESTERSHIRE LE17 6JE
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FREE TM
thebeaconmagazine.co.uk
3/5/15 11:13 AM
Whatever the question, we’re here to help From installing your new washing machine to finding the right TV, our expert Partners are on hand to help It’s all part of our commitment to being Never Knowingly Undersold
Our commitment to value means that we match the prices of high street competitors (this excludes online-only or mail order businesses). Service conditions must be comparable. See our ‘Never Knowingly Undersold’ leaflet in our shops or online for details.
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3/5/15 11:40 AM
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3/5/15 10:49 AM 13/02/2015 09:16