Urban Fox - December 2018 Issue by Steve Lenaghan

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December 2018

WIN

Fortnum & Mason Hamper L.K. Bennett Clutch Skandinavisk Candles

CHRISTMAS

CRACKER

MACKENZIE FOY INTERVIEW

Let it Snow I'M DREAMING OF... Deck the Halls Spruce up your home

Novelty Knits

'TIS THE SEASON

12 Days of Fitness

XMAS SURVIVAL GUIDE URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 1

Cosy Cottage, Billesdon

Luxurious Living, City Centre Beautiful Bedroom, City Centre

Brand New Build, Houghton on the Hill

Generous Garden, South Knighton

Handsome Hallway, Oadby

What would you wish for this Christmas? T: 0116 270 5900 F: 0116 274 5732

info@fothergillwyatt.com www.fothergillwyatt.com

Lovely Living Room, Great Glen Vibrant Veg Patch, South Knighton

Bespoke Bathroom, Houghton on the Hill

Contemporary Kitchen, City Centre

Delightful Den, Stoneygate

Luxury Lifestyle, Oadby

Available now... offer in time for Christmas

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 3

Hello

IT’S CHRISTMAS! So, let’s get the party started with our fun and Fabulously Festive edition of Urban Fox.

COVER SHOT:

Rainbow's End Jumper £59.95, Bridget Hat £25, Amelia Gloves & Scarf £22.50/£35, White Stuff

Interact with us theurbanfoxmediagroup

Like us for regular features, competitions and more great stuff about Leicestershire

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URBANFOX

We’re going all out in the style stakes. Whether you Sparkle and Shine in seasonal sequins or let your hair down with our glam party dos and make up tips, we’ve got the answers to all your festive dilemmas. And if you’ll be rockin’ around the Christmas tree this December 25th, check out our pick of Novelty Knits for a little extra ho ho ho! On the home front, we’re decking the halls, doors and basically anything that doesn’t move with this year’s merriest and brightest trends. Bring the outside in, with a whimsical forest theme, or shorten the odds of a white Christmas and Let It Snow with your own winter wonderland scene. All set? Cook up a storm with a scrumptious selection of cocktails and canapés. The perfect festive pick-me-ups. Can’t cook, won’t cook? Pull your head out of the oven and Eat, Drink & Be Merry with our tips and tricks for a stress-free Christmas lunch …Shh we won’t tell. And although everyone knows that all calories consumed at this time of year are neither judged, nor counted, Rebecca Watts is on hand to tell us how to survive the season with 12 Days of Fitness. If like me you’ve not yet started your gift shopping, don’t panic, we’ve got Christmas all wrapped up! Our gorgeous gift pages are packed with stylish ideas from all your favourite high street and online stores. Tick. Still feeling the strain? We reveal how to avoid the financial fallout with our Merry & Bright ways to save. And if it takes more than buffing your baubles to get you in the Christmas spirit, Santa’s little helper Sarah Mettrick is here to help you rediscover the magic of NYE in Auld Lang Syne. We’ll be taking a break in January but join me again in February with our One Small Change edition. Until then, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from all at Urban Fox. 13

MARTINA LENAGHAN Editor editor@theurban-fox.co.uk

48-49

STEVE LENAGHAN Head of Sales & Marketing 07738 614245 steve@theurban-fox.co.uk

Frosted Chestnut Bauble, £8

HOMES & GARDE NS Glitter Edge Pine Cone, £3

Glittered Fox, £35 Rustic Pillar Candle, £5

LISA ROTH Head of New Business Development 07843 851132 lisa@theurban-fox.co.uk

stgnuts RC oahstein

KATIE TURNBULL Designer katie@theurban-fox.co.uk

Autumn Berry Wreath, £35

Leaf Bauble, £5 Apple and Berry Pick, £3

Copper Hammere d Plate, £6

Rich russets and chestnut tones create a cosy Chris tmas setting. Add open fire and to complete the mulled wine forest feel.

Woodland Owl, £8 Pinecone Tealight Holders (set of 3), £15

Copper Foil Bauble,

Disclaimer: Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of material in this publication, the editor can accept no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributors in either editorial or advertising content. Copyright: All text, images and design in this publication are subject to copyright. Any unauthorised duplication is strictly prohibited. All artwork is accepted on the strict condition that permission has been given to use it in this publication.

Images & Products:

Pine Cone Garland, £12

£8

John Lewis

URBAN FOX DECEMB ER 2018 49

9 29

CONTRIBUTORS: Kirsty France, Sarah Mettrick, Rebecca Watts URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 5

November 19

HEALTH & WELLBEING

41 48

21 12 Days of Fitness Seasonal survival guide 23 Flying Solo Home alone for Xmas

WINING & DINING 25 Let Me Entertain You Festive pick-me-ups 29 Gifts for Foodies Treats to tickle their taste buds 31 Eat, Drink & Be Merry Can't stand the heat...cheat

LIFE & WORK 33 Auld Lang Syne Secret to a happy NYE 34 Christmas Cracker Mackenzie Foy interview

FASHION & BEAUTY 8 Sparkle & Shine 4 ways to wear 11 Blue Christmas The little blue dress 13 Novelty Knits 'Tis the season 15 Gifts for Her Because she's worth it

37 Merry & Bright (ways to save) Avoid the financial hangover

HOMES & GARDENS 41 L et it Snow I'm dreaming of...

45 Gifts for Home Birds Ideas to feather their nests 48 Chestnuts Roasting Xmas' hottest home trend 53 A ll Set Festive table tips 57 Deck the Halls Spruce up your home

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 59 What’s on Entertaining the whole family 63 Season's Readings December's recommendations

PEOPLE & PLACES

17 Gifts for Him Indulge the man in your life

65 New Traditions Something borrowed, something new

19 Glam Squad Party hair and make-up

66 My way Local spotlight on Lisa Kettell

WIN CLUTCH BAG

WIN HAMPER

WIN ÖNSKA GIFT SET

by LK Bennett

from Fortnum & Mason

by Skandinavisk

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 7

Buttoned Cuffed Knit, £89, Mint Velvet

FESTIVE LUNCH Soho Tote, £189, Hobbs

Open Borg Coat, £179, Mint Velvet Alivia Trainers, £150, L.K. Bennett Ombre Sequin Skirt, £119, Mint Velvet

Romie Velvet Jacket, £325, L.K. Bennett

CHRISTMAS DAY Butterfly Shirt, £145, Reiss

Alice Court Shoes, £139, Carvela

Taylor Velvet Bag, £99, L.K. Bennett

FASHION & BEAUTY

Layered Disc & Chain Bracelet, £35, Mint Velvet Ellipse Clutch, £595, Jimmy Choo

NEW YEAR’S EVE

Daelyn Shoe, £85, Dune London

Sparkle SHINE &

Fleur Du Mal Camisole, £200, Net-A-Porter

A Christmas staple. Pair with chunky knits and trainers for everyday, or dress it up with a cami and heels.

Suede Biker Jacket, £299, Jigsaw

Bella Top, £99, Hobbs

PARTY NIGHT

Mia Bronze Boot, £129, Mint Velvet

Stevie Bag, £950, Jimmy Choo

DRESSES • ACCESSORIES • SHOES • HANDBAGS • OUTERWEAR

4-6 CHAPEL STREET, OADBY, LEICESTER, LE2 5AD

0116 271 4430 • WWW.SIMPLYCHIQUEUK.COM

WIN!

SISSI CLUTCH from L.K. Bennett

Upgrade your occassionwear wardrobe with this Sissi Blue Velvet Clutch Bag from L.K. Bennett, worth £150. Featured in this month’s “Blue Christmas” feature, this elegant envelope style clutch bag is crafted from powderblue velvet and finished with a Swarovski crystal bow detail across the clasp closure. A favourite with the Duchess of Cambridge, L.K. Bennett is a British accessible luxury brand and shoe specialist that reflects its unmistakable heritage; a modern blend of femininity, colour and style. Its collections of shoes, ready-to-wear clothes, handbags and accessories, appeal to women who want a wardrobe perfect for any occasion. To view their latest collection, go to lkbennett.com, or visit your nearest franchise at John Lewis, Highcross, Leicester.

TO ENTER:

Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to competitions@theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘LKB’ in the subject bar. Closing date for entries is Mon 31 December 2018. Terms & Conditions: The winner will be drawn on or after the closing date. The Editor’s decision is final, and no correspondence will be entered into. This prize is non-transferable and no cash alternative is available. The competition may be withdrawn at any time prior to the closing date.

BLUE

FASHION & BEAUTY

Christmas Mikado Tie Back Dress, £112, Adrianna Papell

Make an entrance this festive season in a Little Blue Dress. Party dressing has never been this easy.

Emily Court Shoes, £139, Mint Velvet

Sissi Bow Clutch Bag, £150, L.K. Bennett Savannah Dress, £159, Hobbs

Primrose Court Shoe, £169, Hobbs Kasia Clutch Bag, £79, Ted Baker

Bottega Veneta

Velvet Sequin Midi Dress, £75, Warehouse

Noemi Velvet Dress, £395, L.K. Bennett

Romy 100 Dégradé Pumps, £495, Jimmy Choo

Priyanka Courts, £215, L.K. Bennett

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 11

EXTRA

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OUTLET STORE Quality clothing for all the family at outlet store prices

Bring this advert and get an extra 10% off everything instore – including sale items! Find us at: Lands’ End Way, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6US

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Novelty

KNITS

FASHION & BEAUTY

Christmas Jumper Day is coming your way. Make the World better with a sweater, with our pick of the best festive knits.

1 Embroidered Slogan Jumper, £320, Bella Freud 2 Embroidered Robin Jumper, £25, M&S 3 Editor’s Pick: I can’t resist a pom pom Fair Isle Jumper, £90, Boden 4 Santa Paws Jumper, £49, John Lewis 5 Alpacas Jumper, £70, Cath Kidston 6 Gingerbread Jumper, £30, Lipsy 7 Sausage Dog Jumper, £49, Yumi 8 Mother Christmas, £75, Boden 9 Christmas Cat Jumper, £46, Warehouse URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 13

Treat yourself or someone special this Christmas

Be good to yourself

4 Adam & Eve Street, Market Harborough, LE16 7LT. Tel: 01858 465592 orders@thelittlebigbrashop.co.uk www.thelittlebigbrashop.co.uk

Best Personal Touch INDEPENDENT LINGERIE SHOP IN THE UK

MICHAEL GRUNDY Jeweller • Designer • Goldsmith

Jewellery restoration & repairs Remodelling of jewellery A full design service All work carried out in our in house workshop

A beautiful selection of hand crafted and bespoke jewellery designs.

Email: Mick@MichaelGrundyJewellers.com Phone: (0116) 2745968 | 64 Queens Road, Leicester, LE2 1TU

www.MichaelGrundyJewellers.com

White Stuff

GIFT GUIDE

Fix' Make-Up, £24, Clarins

Small Selby Bag, £950, Mulberry

Elsa Fairisle Scarf, £44.95, Joules

Meryl Intarsia Jumper, £79.95, Joules

Gifts

for her

Hygge Lavender & Geranium Candle, £22, Mint Velvet

Nail Varnish/Lip Stain, £18/£24, Smith & Cult Modern Muse Nuit Eau de Parfum, 50ml, £77, Estée Lauder The Cocktail Garden Book, £12.99, Fat Face

Threading Rope Slipper Sock, £27.50, White Stuff

Weekend Away Essentials, £25, Molton Brown

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 15

LxinEg Day! A S arts Bo

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Joules

GIFT GUIDE

Hammam Scented Candle, £21.50, Rituals Dolce & Gabbana The One, 50ml, £51, Debenhams

Crastill Cable Knit Wool Jumper, £99.95, Barbour

Emporio Armani AR2473 Watch, £259, John Lewis

Gifts

for him

Onso Fair Isle Socks, £14.95, Barbour

Liam Fairisle Scarf, £35, White Stuff

Beer & Food Matching Book, £9.99, Fat Face Leather Felt Wash Bag, £50, John Lewis

Sport Metropolitan Messenger Bag, £475, Coach Felt Mule Slippers, £39.95, Joules

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 17

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ICE BLONDE

Not for the faint hearted, platinum blonde hair and a smidge of red lippy will transform you into the ultimate Ice Queen this Christmas. Don’t try this one at home, a colourist will be able to look at your skin tone and suggest the perfect shade for you. Add a LBD and you’re good to go!

STRAIGHT & NARROW

Glam Squad

You can’t go wrong with sleek, smooth and shiny hair. Prep damp hair with smoothing cream. Taking small sections, dry slowly using a hairdryer and paddle brush. Create a side parting, then smooth over with straighteners. Spray brush with shine spray and glide through the hair to create a glossy finish.

Let your hair down with these glam party dos and make-up tips straight from the AW catwalks. small and simple way to inject style and sass into your wardrobe.

GLITTER GIRL

There’s no better excuse than Christmas to add glitter to your makeup. The party-ready hues of gold, silver and bronze, are great swept on the eyelids to dramatic effect. Brush some into the corners of the eye socket and underneath the lash line too for the ultimate glam look.

HIGH SHINE As all you glow-getters know, a good highlighter will help add radiance to your complexion and define your features. Apply to the cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, your cupid's bow, and the brow bone. A light touch will ensure you don’t end up looking like a disco ball!

SMOKEY EYE For this festive smouldering look, use a dark grey or brown eyeshadow blended across the eyelid, with a creme-based shadow on the brow bone to maximise the effect. Line your eyes, with liquid liner and add a few lashings of mascara, or faux lashes, if you want to pump up the volume. URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 19

Book a free consultation with one of our team

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T: 0116 271 5056 M: 0780 110 1022

www.lafemmebelle.co.uk

12 Days

OF FITNESS On the first day of Christmas, don’t fret and fuss about piling on the pounds, says TheStudio40’s Rebecca Watts. Check out her survival guide to get you through the season.

Day 1 - Avoid crash diets

You’ve pulled your LBD from the back of the wardrobe only to find it's bulging in all the wrong places. But crash dieting isn’t the answer; it’ll drop your metabolic rate, causing you to pile on the pounds later. Christmas is a busy time you’ll need your energy, so maybe just get a spandex instead.

Day 2 – Beat the bloat

Bloating can add a dress size, but a few lifestyle changes can help. Wrap up warm and get walking every day; do an exercise class to help tone; drink 2-3 litres of water per day; reduce your intake of starchy carbohydrates (rice, bread etc.) and eat regular, small meals.

Day 3 - Change the goal

in the day will lead to lack of nutrients, energy loss, and a compromised immune system. Instead, try balancing out your day with a lower calorie nutritional meal, such as a prawn and vegetable stir fry.

each glass of alcohol, drink a glass of water. This will help you drink moderately and slowly. Have alcohol free days or make yourself popular and offer to drive. Your body, mind and skin will thank you for it.

Day 5 - Earn those treats

Day 9 – Don’t skip meals

On indulgent days, be more active and earn the calories. Go for a long walk, do an extra gym session, clean the house, whatever you can do to burn a couple of hundred calories off. Try making use of the party atmosphere and dance your calories away!

Day 6 – Practice damage limitation

Christmas dinner is reasonably healthy. But with all the trimmings and a glass or two of alcohol, it can easily add up to 3500 calories! Try avoiding or reducing a few of those calorific extras to help minimise the damage – pigs-in-blankets, stuffing, Yorkshires, sauces – and fill up on veggies instead.

Day 7 – Wakeup & workout

This is not the time of year to be thinking of diets and losing weight, but it is the time to think healthy. Change your goal to maintenance, keeping where you are now, giving you a head start in the New Year.

With a busy social diary, it’s easy to skip your usual exercise sessions. Try getting up an hour earlier and getting your gym session, home workout or even a long dog walk done. You’ll feel much better all day and it’ll give you more time in the evening to get ready for those all-important parties.

Day 4 – Don’t save calories

Day 8 - Control the alcohol

Don’t panic about nights out and starve all day. Significantly reducing calories

‘Tis the season to be jolly but it’s worth trying to control your alcohol intake. After

Dining out on an empty stomach can lead to over indulging on higher calorie foods. Don’t skip meals before a night out. Instead try having a healthy snack before you leave to help reduce the amount you eat when out.

Day 10 – Just say no

If you’ve tried hard to control your weight in the run up to Christmas, you don’t want to undo all that hard work by indulging in boxes of chocolates. Ask friends and family to support you by not buying you sweet treats. Any you do get, give away before you open them.

Day 11 – Slowly does it

Make sure that you're properly hydrated as being thirsty can often be mistaken for hunger. Eat your food slowly and drink plenty of water. This allows your stomach time to acknowledge the food and the water helps fill you up.

Day 12 – Ditch the guilt

Most importantly whatever way you choose to minimise the effects of this festive season, enjoy yourself. It’s important that we enjoy food and don't see food as the enemy. Feeling guilty can have a knock-on effect to the next day and often longer. URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 21

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Boden

Flying

SOLO Discover the joy of being alone this Christmas with these quirky, challenging and fun ideas.

1 2

3 4

Decorate extravagantly – the tree, lights, baubles, bunting, the works!

Create a Christmas playlist, then sing and dance until you collapse from exhaustion.

Spend Christmas Eve somewhere festive and soak up the atmosphere.

Treat yourself to cashmere loungewear and stay in them all day. Alternatively dress up, it doesn’t matter you’ve got nowhere to go.

Prepare a lavish breakfast, when do you normally have the time.

Give yourself the gift of silence. Block out noises and distractions and do as you please. Bliss! Buy yourself some presents to open. At least you’ll get what you want this year.

Walk around the local neighbourhood and admire/ ridicule the Christmas lights.

10 11 12

Plan an alternative Christmas lunch, ditch the turkey and replace with elegant canapés.

Experiment with flavoured gins, the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Bake some festive goodies – mince pies, gingerbread, cookies – just don’t eat them all. Have a film marathon. Christmas classics or comedies, you’ve got the remote. Read A Christmas Carol and remember the true spirit of Christmas.

15 16 17 18

If it snows (and we hope it does), build a snowman while singing songs from Frozen. Sort through your wardrobe and fill a bag of clothes to donate to charity. Then make a hit list of things you want to target in the post-Christmas sales. Volunteer at a church, hospital or shelter and make someone else’s Christmas special.

Wrap up warm and go for a bracing walk. You’ll feel invigorated.

Make a list of places you’ve always wanted to travel and plan your next holiday.

Call or email friends you’ve not seen recently and renew your friendships for 2019. URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 23

* UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT *

CHRISTMAS MENU 2018 Ham Hock Terrine, Pub Picalili, Toast Spiced Butternut Squash Soup, Bread & Butter (v) Devilled Whitebait, Garlic Aioli Beetroot Cured Trout, Horseradish Cream, Bread & Butter Oxtail Broth, Root Vegetables, Tarragon Dumpling

TRUST US TO PUT THAT EXTRA BIT OF SPARKLE INTO YOUR CHRISTMAS For menus of the season, proper food and all the joy of Christmas, you can trust us to add that little extra sparkle to your festive celebrations. Boboli and The Lighthouse will be in full festive swing, so gather your family, friends and colleagues and celebrate in style.

BOOK CHRISTMAS TODAY WE LOVE HOSTING SPLENDID FESTIVE PARTIES

Roast Goose, Confit Leg, Traditional Accompaniments Roasted Turkey Crown, Traditional Accompaniments Braised Blade of Beef, Horseradish Mash & Roasted Vegetables Roast Leg of Venison, Celeriac Gratin, Blackberry & Juniper Sauce Whole Roasted Sea Bass, Caper & Brown Shrimp Butter, Herb Mash Wild Mushroom & Truffle Risotto, Parmesan Crisps, Broccoli (vegetarian cheese option) (v) Christmas Pudding, Brandy Ice Cream Chocolate Fondant, Cherry Compote, Grand Marnier Ice Cream Tonka Bean Panna Cotta, Poached Winter Fruits Baked Cheesecake with Blueberry & Cranberry Compote Coffee, Mince Pies & Chocolate Truffles

Two Courses: £22.00 Three Courses: £28.00 1st - 24th December 2018 - excluding Sundays £10 per person deposit on booking (pre-order required one week prior) Head Chef: Aaron Johnston (formerly of Hambleton Hall and The Olive Branch)

Tel 0116 279 6260 lighthousekibworth.co.uk

Tel 0116 279 3303 bobolirestaurant.co.uk

www.thebewicke.com For reservations call: 01858 555734 Bewicke Arms, 1 Eastgate, Hallaton, LE16 8UB

WINING & DINING

LET ME

Entertain you Get your party started with these festive pick-me-ups from Waitrose.

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 25

HAM & STILTON TARTLETS Makes: 12 Ingredients: Plain flour, for rolling 250g shortcrust pastry 250g mascarpone 2 medium free range eggs 2 tbsp snipped fresh chives 100g wafer thin british ham, shredded 100g Stilton, crumbledÂ

Preheat the oven to 190Â°C, gas mark 5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pastry thinly.

Using an 8cm cutter, stamp out rounds and use to line a 12-hole fairy cake or bun tin.

In a bowl, beat together the mascarpone, eggs and chives, then stir in the ham and stilton.

Divide among the pastry cases and bake for 20-25 minutes until set and golden brown.

PEACH APRICOT PUNCH Serves: 4 Ingredients: Ice cubes 2 clementines, thinly sliced 100ml brandy 50ml orange liqueur 750ml bottle J2O Peach & Apricot Spritz

1 2 3

Fill a large jug or a punch bowl with ice. Add the clementine slices and stir in the brandy and orange liqueur. Stir in the J2O and serve

FRUITY GIN SPRITZER Serves: 2 Ingredients: Ice cubes 75ml gin 1 tbsp cassis 500ml J2O Pear & Raspberry Spritz Raspberries, to garnish

1 2 3 Images and recipes: Waitrose

Fill 2 highball glasses with ice cubes. Divide the gin and cassis among the glasses, stir well. Top up with J2O and garnish each glass with a few raspberries.

WINING & DINING

CHICKEN YAKITORI MINI SKEWERS Makes: 18 Ingredients: 600g chicken thighs, cubed 1 pack leeks, cut into 4cm lengths 1 tbsp sunflower oil 4 tbsp medium sherry 4 tbsp soy sauce 1 tbsp rice or white wine vinegar 1 tbsp caster sugar 2 tsp cornflour 1 tsp finely grated fresh ginger 1 tbsp sesame seedsÂ

Thread the chicken and leek alternately onto 18-20 short bamboo skewers. You should have 2 cubes of chicken and 1 piece of leek on each. Brush lightly with oil and arrange on a foil-lined grill pan.

Pre-heat the grill to medium. Cook the skewers for 7-8 minutes on each side until nicely browned and completely cooked through with no pink meat. Drain off any excess liquid.

Meanwhile, place the sherry, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, cornflour and ginger in a small pan. Cook gently, stirring for 2-3 minutes, until bubbling and thickened.

Brush the chicken with the yakitori sauce and sprinkle over the sesame seeds. Return to the grill for a further 1-2 minutes until the seeds are toasted. Transfer to a platter and serve warm.

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 27

WIN!

A CHRISTMAS HAMPER from Fortnum & Mason Eat, drink and be merry! It is Christmas, after all. Readily waiting to make this possible for one reader is the Merrymaker Hamper by Fortnum and Mason. Brimming with a trio of warming Christmas creations including Spiced Christmas Loose Leaf Tea, Christmas Ruby Red Infusion and the new and spectacular Christmas Green Loose Leaf Tea. Matching in deliciousness are some spectacular Christmas creations. Indulge in the famous St James Christmas Pudding, utterly buttery Shortbread Stars and melt-in-the-mouth Christmas Chocolate Bar. A Chocolate & Orange Curd will keep your sweet tooth satisfied long after Christmas is over.

Why not celebrate the season with your own parcel of joy? Shop their range of festive hampers at www.fortnumandmason.com

TO ENTER:

Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to competitions@theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘Fortnum & Mason’ in the subject bar. Closing date for entries is Mon 17 December 2018. Terms & Conditions: The winner will be drawn on or after the closing date. The Editor’s decision is final, and no correspondence will be entered into. This prize is non-transferable and no cash alternative is available. The competition may be withdrawn at any time prior to the closing date.

HAVE A GANDER AT OUR ULTIMATE

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FREE RANGE LEICESTERSHIRE GEESE SUSTAINABLY FED ON BARLEY OVEN-READY ORDERS NOW BEING TAKEN

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Fatface

Joules

GIFT GUIDE

50s Retro Style Food Blender, £149.95, Smeg

Plum & Vanilla Liqueur, 50cl, £16, Edinburgh Gin

Royal Worcester Wrendale Robin Mug, £11.50, John Lewis

Gifts

Christmas Joy Serving Plate, £59.95, Emma Bridgewater

for Foodies Robin & Holly Apron, £24, Thornback & Peel Christmas with Good Housekeeping, £13, Amazon

Hot Chocolate Gift Set, £10, John Lewis

Nutcracker Biscuit Tin, £35, Biscuiteers Baking

Grand Wreath Box, £75, Hotel Chocolat

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 29

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Waitrose

WINING & DINING

Eat, Drink

& BE MERRY If the thought of cooking Christmas lunch brings out the Grinch in you, then cheat your way to a fun-filled, stressfree day. Shh…we won’t tell. Christmas lunch is a feast in itself, so ditch the starter and save the calories and the extra work. If you can’t resist, keep it simple…and cold – smoked salmon or even a kitsch 70’s prawn cocktail.

Most veg can be prepped on Christmas Eve. Peel and trim your carrots and parsnips (keep them in water overnight) and parboil your potatoes so they’re ready to go in the oven the next day.

Turkey can be tricky to cook and takes up a lot of oven space. A joint of lamb or pork is smaller and can be slow-cooked. You can throw the veg into the same pan which makes it even easier.

Make vegetable prep easy. Don't buy Brussels on stalks and swap fresh for vacuum-packed chestnuts. Just pop them in water, and they're ready to go. Think of all the peeling you’ll avoid.

If it wouldn't be Christmas without a turkey, prepare it the day before. Opting for a turkey crown and cooking the stuffing separately will also save time in the oven.

Cook as many vegetables can you can together. Boil peas and carrots in the same saucepan or do a Jamie Oliver style all-in-one roast veg tray of potatoes, carrots and parsnips.

If you can’t fit everything in, cook the turkey first, then remove and cover in tin foil (to rest for up to an hour) while you make a start on the veggies.

Things can go wrong but don’t panic there’s usually a quick and tasty remedy. If you overcook the sprouts, strain them, pop in the processor with some cream, seasoning and grated nutmeg and voila! brussel sprout puree.

Side line some of the sides. The number of accompaniments is not important, it’s the quality that counts. Concentrate on making just two or three great sides and avoid juggling those pots and pans.

– no one will know. But do your own roasties as shop-bought ones generally don’t pass muster. Make a list of everything you need to do - what you need to cook and when everything should go into the oven. Cross off once completed so you can see at a glance where you are up to. There’s no rule saying you must do it all yourself. Don’t be afraid to ask for help with peeling veg, laying the table or keeping everyone’s drinks (especially yours) topped up. Don’t be pressured into an early lunch. Have a substantial breakfast and leave the main event until late afternoon. You’ll have longer to get things ready and spend more time with the family too. Finally, if you really can’t stand the heat, then get out of the kitchen, hire a professional chef or go out for dinner instead. It might cost more but a stress-free Christmas dinner is priceless.

You don’t have to make everything from scratch, buy in some things ready-made - gravy, sauces, dessert URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 31

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Boden

Auld Lang

SYNE Feeling the pressure to have the best night ever? Sarah Mettrick revisits NYEs past to reveal the secret to a Happy New Year.

Do you remember how exciting New Year’s Eve was as a child? It was the only time of year my sister and I were allowed to stay up half the night and pretty much do as we liked. We’d spy on the party downstairs, giggling as the grown-ups performed drunken dance moves to Abba and Sister Sledge. It was great back then, there was no expectation or pressure to have fun, we just did. So why does New Year’s Eve get less exciting as we get older? Is it because we ﬁnally realise it’s not necessarily the best night of the year? Personally, I love Christmas Eve, it feels magical and cosy with excitement still looming. Whereas New Year’s Eve links you, with immediate effect, to the two most depressing months of the year. You then wake up and want to slap yourself with a coat hanger for having accomplished absolutely none of the resolutions you’ve just had 365 days to achieve. But in our defence where in the world did that year go? It’s ﬂown by quicker than NASA’s hypersonic airship.

New Year’s celebrations seem to evolve and adjust according to where we are in our lives. In our twenties we were falling out of night clubs stinking of B-52’s and Rothmans. We’ve done the black-tie events and jetted off to sophisticated cities for fabulous meals in our thirties. Things really start to calm down when you have kids. It’s all very much a stay at home event by then seeing in the New Year with Jools Holland.

"...back then there was no expectation or pressure to have fun, we just did." We have however, up to now, always made an effort to celebrate. I have only failed to be ‘present’ for the big countdown on two occasions. The ﬁrst was eight years ago when I had just given birth to our second daughter. My husband made a candlelit meal, all I actually wanted to do was lie down. I waddled down like John Wayne, lowering myself

onto a cushion. It all got a bit much when I was trying to peel a King Prawn with a new born attached to my nipple. I was so exhausted I had to retire early. He said he’d gone to a lot of trouble. I said I’d just pushed a small human out of my vagina so let’s call it quits. The following year I told my husband we should try the candlelit meal option again and he spent the day preparing for the evening. I was determined to be sexy, funny and great company, the polar opposite to the year before. As I could drink this time I made some cocktails to get us in the mood. The cocktails flowed, the wine flowed and shortly afterwards I flowed…straight into my filet au poivre. It was some time before I came round. He was humming to Auld Lang Syne on the radio. Whatever you do this New Year’s, don't try to have fun, set your expectations low, stay conscious for the count down and you’ll probably have the best night ever!

Happy New Year everyone! URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 33

CHRISTMAS

Cracker Just seventeen years old and taking the lead in a Disney fantasy thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sure to be on every little (and big) girlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s watch list this Christmas, Mackenzie Foy is as enthusiastic and charming as any princess should be.

LIFE & WORK

If ever there was the definition of a rising star – Mackenzie Foy is it. Ever since she was cast as Renesmee, the 10-year-old child of Kristen Stewart's Bella Swan and Robert Pattinsons' Edward Cullen in The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn, the actress has been preparing herself for the chance to play the leads in a major Hollywood film. That moment has now come with The Nutcracker and the Four Realms, a spectacular Disney phantasy film that re-imagines the ballet from which we gained one of Tchaikovsky’s most iconic scores. And Foy – who is currently in the process of completing her final year of high school – is front and centre in this inspired tale of a teenage girl who learns that she is a princess whose destiny is to save her magical realm. "Clara has the same strength and fearlessness that she has in the book and in the ballet," the 17-year-old says. "But in this version her mother has just passed away and she’s trying to deal with that grief and that pain and trying to be strong for her family. She learns a lot about herself in the course of her journey and I feel I also discovered a lot about my own inner strength."

do it’. I hope they see Clara as someone who is unapologetically herself. I hope girls and younger women who see the film will be able to appreciate that you can be interested in science, you can be in interested in mechanics, and you can still wear dresses and like those kinds of things, too.”

I remember buying a Nutcracker... I put it up on my bookshelf every year during the holidays. For Foy, a native of Los Angeles, her first lead role also came with a host of happy memories. “I can’t remember how old I was, but I was pretty little when I went to the ballet for the first time,” she says. “The first time I saw it, I was absolutely mesmerized. I remember buying a Nutcracker afterwards and I put it up on my bookshelf every year during the holidays. That Nutcracker is my prized Christmas decoration.”

And despite her tender years, Foy is well aware of the modern ideal of a Disney princess and hopeful that her character can truly encapsulate those elements for fans to look up to.

The opportunity, therefore, to be transported amongst the magical worlds on offer in The Nutcracker and the Four Realms was one that resonated with Foy. From the Land of Amusements and the Land of Sweets, to the Land of Flowers and the Land of Snowflakes, the young actress was able to enjoy the very best that the silver screen industry had to offer when it came to concocting an immersive Yuletide world.

“She’s this young inventor – in her time period, it wasn’t really socially acceptable, but she still believes, ‘This is who I am. This is what I love to do, and I’m gonna

“They built these enormous, fabulous sets that really made you feel part of those realms,” she enthuses. “It wasn't the case of standing in front of a green screen and imagining

everything, I would find myself actually walking through these incredible landscapes. Those sets and forests are real and not something they added in later!” Alongside these incredible backdrops, Foy was also given the chance to work with a plethora of the silver screen’s biggest stars. Not to say that Foy is a stranger to the limelight, having begun modelling at just three years old, and winning her first film part at nine. But the prospect of working with Keira Knightley, Helen Mirren, Richard E. Grant et al gave the young star a chance to rub shoulders with the industry elite. “It was so much fun, and they were all really nice and it was really amazing to be able to get to know them,” she says. “It was fun seeing them first in their own personalities and then watching them go into these fun, crazy characters. One thing that I really noticed was how some of the actors like to get into their own zone to collect their thoughts before doing a scene and I thought that was very interesting.” A sure-fire choice for families everywhere this Christmas, The Nutcracker and the Four Realms has all the potential to become a festive favourite for years to come. For Foy, this Christmas will see her looking back on the year she took the lead in a big-budget Hollywood project – not that these allusions of future stardom have in any way gone to her head. “I love baking cookies on Christmas Eve,” she beams. “And on the days when we’re all together, we just sit on the couch with the dog and the cat and a big blanket and get hot chocolate and watch Christmas movies all day.”

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 35

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LIFE & WORK

MERRY & BRIGHT WAYS TO SAVE Already counting the cost of Christmas? Enjoy the festivities without the financial hangover with our top 12 saves.

Consider downscaling your Christmas list and agree not to buy for friend’s children, extended family, work colleagues etc. You’ll be amazed how receptive (and relieved) they’ll be losing a present or two from their ever growing list.

If you’re finding it hard to cull your list, how about a traditional Secret Santa? Choose a budget and everyone pulls one name out of a hat to buy for. Cheaper, less time consuming and the chances are you’ll have more fun choosing for your special one.

to the country or coast. It might not be cheaper but you’ll remember it for years to come.

If your children are young, save buying big ticket gifts until they’re older and opt for gift experiences instead; a trip to the West End, an activity break, riding lessons etc. This will help create additional family time and focusses on your child’s own interests.

Christmas shopping can be fun but queues and bunions are not. Fortunately shopping online can be a great way to find the latest deals. Even the high street stores have online flash sales in the weeks up to Christmas. Now that’s worth staying in for!

Alternatively ditch the shopping and give a gift that costs you time not money. Babysitting topped the Urban Fox poll, with ironing a close second. If you’d like to add us to your Christmas list, please feel free to contact the Editor!

If you’re not giving time, then spend some time together. Forego all those costly gifts and throw a party for your friends and family at home, or alternatively rent a cottage and escape

3 4

If you do hit the shops, remember to make a list before you go and allocate a budget for each person that you’re buying for. Then stick to it! Don’t let the Christmas atmosphere unleash the impulse buyer in you. If you’re planning a one-off family purchase - television, home cinema, games console etc. – and missed Black Friday, wait until the Boxing Day sales.

What difference a day makes! And if you’re not suffering from Christmas fatigue it’s a great time to buy next year’s gifts too!

It’s easy to get carried away spending money to make your home feel festive. But making your own decorations and table settings à la Kirsty Allsopp is the perfect way to save, and create a unique Christmas look too.

If you still feel the need to send Christmas cards then look out for 3 for 2 offers, or rope the kids in and design and print your own family card. Swap expensive wrapping paper for brown paper and tie with colourful ribbon.

Consider down branding your food shopping. You don’t have to go crazy, just drop one level to retain quality and taste but save money too. Do the bulk online and avoid the dreaded supermarket queues. The only problem now is how to fit it all in the fridge.

Finally consider applying for a cashback credit card. They are essentially a form of reward scheme, yet rather than giving points, you get cold hard cash, tax-free, every time you spend on the card. Every little helps! URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 37

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 39

HOME

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ÖNSKA GIFT SET by Skandinavisk

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Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to competitions@theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘Skandinavisk’ in the subject bar. Closing date for entries is Monday 17 December 2018. Terms & Conditions: The winner will be drawn after the specified closing date. The Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. The prize is non-transferable and no cash alternative is available. The prize may be withdrawn at any time.

Images: Amara

HOMES & GARDENS

Let it

SNOW A Christmas classic. Let your imagination go, with a winter wonderland theme. On the Up

Make an entrance

Welcome guests into your home with a full-on festive display. This opulent collection combines natural touches with metallic accents and calming candlelight. Arrange your items randomly, to avoid looking like you’ve tried too hard and don’t be afraid to break out the tinsel.

Extend your decorations to the staircase and beyond. Keep things natural and understated with a simple snow-covered forest garland on your banister. Or add a wow factor with dashes of shimmer and shine. These hanging baubles are easy to do and look fabulously festive.

Shabby chic

Transform an unloved cabinet into a Christmas treasure trove. Paint it all white, then create a backdrop using offcuts from your tree or alternatively eucalyptus branches. Finally fill with twinkly fairy lights and your favourite Christmas ornaments.

Table talk

Ditch the explosion of table decorations and opt for a simple and sophisticated look, using whites, silvers, and subtle hints of blue. Be creative and use food to add flavour to your décor. Glass jars of meringues and marshmallows encapsulate the essence of a snowy Christmas scene.

Deck the tree

Spruce up your tree with light reflecting vintage and crystal baubles. Snowflakes and icicle inspired decorations also hit the brief. Dress the bottom of the tree with a white willow or faux snow skirt and cover with presents beautifully wrapped in white and silver paper. URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 41

Kitchen

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Gifts

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Chestnuts Roasting Rich russets and chestnut tones create a festive forest feel. Add open fire and mulled wine to complete this cosy Christmas scene.

Images & Products: John Lewis

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Rival the turkey as the star of the show this Christmas, with these stylish touches to make your festive table sparkle.

1 Nordic

A change from the norm, swap the tried-and-tested red and white colour scheme for a more grown up vibe. Think simple monochrome colourway, with white crockery, frosted glassware and the all-important Scandi motifs. White pillar candles will create a warm and welcoming ambience.

2 Retro

Add a touch of 1940s glamour to your table with this Art Deco theme. Pair peacock green and ink blue with geometric patterns and high shine finishes. For extra glisten and gleam opt for metallised fabrics (table runners and napkins) and gold dipped glassware.

3 Rustic

Bring the outside in with a look inspired by nature. Create a stunning centrepiece with frosted berries, foliage (fake or real) and metallic accents.

Silver and bronze work best. For the personal touch, handcrafted place names tied with ribbon or string to a crisp white napkin, hit the brief.

Opulent

Amara

Pimp up your table with this luxurious look. For crockery and cutlery go gold, with crystal glassware and votive candles adding shimmer and shine. Enhance the richness of this scheme with jewel shades and plush textures; and accessorise with golden stags and crystallised fruit decorations.

5 Traditional

Red screams “Christmas” but this year’s deep berry and pomegranate hues offer a sophisticated alternative to brighter Scandi tones. Opt for traditional patterns and motifs - cranberries and damask work well. And decorate simply with bowls of flocked and frosted baubles.

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URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 53

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DECK the HALLS... 5

…with our pick of nature inspired wreaths.

1 Hessian Holly Wreath, £30, The Contemporary Home 2 Black Grevillia and Pussiwillow Wreath, £79, Berries & Baubles 3 Plaited Fir and Red Berries Wreath, £25, Gisela Graham 4 Moonstone Snowball and Pearl Wreath, £30, John Lewis 5 Lit Eucalyptus and Pinecone Wreath, £25, Marks & Spencer 6 Editor’s Pick: Tactile and stylish Feather Wreath, £65, Amara 7 Berry Wreath, £25, Paperchase 8 Burnt Amber and Orange Wreath, £28, Laura Ashley 9 Star and Twig Glitter Wreath, £22, National Trust URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 57

SPRING 2019

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

WHAT’S ON

The Nutcracker, 3 & 9 Dec, Cinema De Lux

DECEMBER 2018

The Nutcracker

Now. Here. This.

The Nutcracker has long been one of the most delightful ways to discover the enchantment of ballet - and makes for a delicious seasonal treat for all the family. Tchaikovsky's muchloved music is matched to a magical adventure on Christmas Eve for Clara and her Nutcracker doll. Their journey to the Land of Sweets brings with it some of the most familiar of all ballet moments, such as the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Waltz of the Flowers. Performed by the Royal Ballet live by satellite on 3 December, with an encore performance on 9 December.

Now. Here. This. is a musical tackling life’s big questions with inimitable humour and humanity. The show follows the evolution and adventures of four friends in a natural history museum as they journey through time, from the present-day museum, to the past, and back again. Inspired by the various exhibits, the foursome share their stories about friendship, hoarding, hiding, laughing, living, dying and middle school in an attempt to step directly into that elusive present moment… into the Now. Here. This.

Mon 3 & Sun 9 Dec Cinema De Lux Tickets from £13.25 showcasecinemas.co.uk

Wed 5 - Sat 22 Dec Upstairs at the Western Tickets from £8 upstairsatthewestern.com

White Christmas, 6 Dec - 13 Jan, Curve

Viennese Christmas, 8 Dec, Leicester Cathedral

White Christmas Thu 6 Dec - Sun 13 Jan Curve Theatre Tickets from £10 curveonline.co.uk

Journey to Vermont for a classic festive favourite, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas! Based on the film of the same name starring Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye, White Christmas tells the story of Veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis and their successful song-and-dance act after World War II. With romance in mind, the two follow a duo of beautiful singing sisters en route for their Christmas show at a Vermont lodge, which just happens to be owned by Bob and Phil’s former Army commander. Featuring a dazzling, instantly recognisable score, this is an enduring tale of friendship, camaraderie, hope and the pursuit of happiness. URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 59

Belshazzar's Feast, 11 Dec, The Guildhall

Jim encounters deadly storms and even deadlier pirates, led by the infamous Long John Silver. Featuring rousing sea shanties and daring sword fights, piratical parrots and acrobatic puppets, this new adaptation is wonderfully imaginative and will leave you spellbound.

Viennese Christmas Sat 8 Dec Leicester Cathedral Tickets from £19 leicestercathedral.org

Touring their ever-popular festive programme, London Concertante present treats from across Europe to get you in the mood for mulled wine, mince pies, and baubles. An evening, packed full of all your family favourites including Strauss (Die Fledermaus Overture, Blue Danube Waltz), Tchaikovsky (Nutcracker Suite, Waltz from Sleeping Beauty), Brahms (Hungarian Dance No. 5) and Schubert (Rondo for Violin & Strings). If you don’t consider yourself ‘in the know’ about Mozart, Beethoven, or Bach, fear not, this is the orchestra for you. The London Concertante has its audience laughing at jokes, gasping at virtuosity, moved by gorgeous string playing, and leaving with a smile on their faces.

A Christmas Carol Tue 11 Dec Phoenix Arts Tickets from £14 phoenix.org.uk

Based on Charles Dickens’s own performance adaptation, Simon Callow and director-designer Tom Cairns have created a one-man theatrical extravaganza of festive storytelling that is both heartwarming and deeply moving. Following critically acclaimed, soldout theatre seasons in 2011, 2012

and again in 2016, Simon Callow (Four Weddings and a Funeral, Shakespeare in Love) returns to wow audiences with this tour-de-force performance, reimagined especially for cinema. A Christmas must see!

Belshazzar's Feast Tue 11 Dec The Guildhall Tickets £14 leicester.gov.uk

A Christmas-themed show that mixes traditional folk music and seasonal material with touches of classical and jazz, a bit of pop and music hall, all topped off with lashings of wry humour. Paul Sartin (member of BBC Radio 2 Award-winning big band Bellowhead) and Paul Hutchinson (Hoover the Dog and the Playford Liberation Front) wow audiences across the UK with their eclectic and eccentric mix of tunes and between songs chat, that always sends audiences home with smiles on their faces.

Treasure Island Thu 13 Dec – Sun 6 Jan Haymarket Theatre Tickets from £13.50 haytheatre.com

A world premiere of Treasure Island, penned by national treasure and established author Sandi Toksvig (The Great British Bake Off, QI). With Toksvig’s trademark razor sharp wit, Jim Hawkins’ adventure across the High Seas in search of treasure will appeal to all ages. Along the way

Peter Pan

Sat 15 Dec - Sun 6 Jan De Montfort Hall Tickets from £10.50 demontforthall.co.uk Soar through the night to Neverland with the Darling children, in the ultimate family pantomime. Join the adventure of a lifetime as Peter introduces you to his world of wonder with best friend Tinkerbell, the wild Lost Boys, and of course the terrifying Captain Hook. DMH are teaming up once more with Imagine Theatre to bring a traditional pantomime full of song, dance, slapstick, laughs and of course… a ticking crocodile. Starring former Coronation Street star Kevin Kennedy, CBeebies' Cat Sandion, X Factor winner Sam Bailey, Britain's Got Talent semi-finalist Kev Orkian and BBC Radio Leicester's Martin Ballard.

A Christmas Carol, 11 Dec, Phoenix Arts

7 – 16 FEB

“A TERRIFIC RETELLING OF HARPER LEE’S CLASSIC” THE TIMES

CURVE, JONATHAN CHURCH PRODUCTIONS AND REGENT’S PARK THEATRE LTD PRESENT

“MAGNIFICENT” DAILY EXPRESS

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URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 61

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Season's

READINGS Christmas can be absolute murder!

The Christmas Card Crime and Other Stories

by Martin Edwards This collection of mysteries explores the darker side of the festive season from unexplained disturbances in the fresh snow, to the darkness that lurks beneath the sparkling decorations. With neglected stories by John Bude and E. C. R. Lorac, as well as tales by little-known writers of crime fiction, Martin Edwards blends the cosy atmosphere of the fireside story with a chill to match the temperature outside. This is a gripping seasonal collection sure to delight mystery fans.

The Mistletoe Murder and Other Stories

by P. D. James P. D. James was frequently commissioned by newspapers and magazines to write a short story for Christmas, and four of the best have been drawn from the archives and published here together. From the title story about a strained country-house Christmas party, to another about an illicit affair that ends in murder, plus two cases for detective Adam Dalgliesh, these are masterfully atmospheric stories by the acknowledged 'Queen of Crime'.

Murder in the Snow: A Cotswold Christmas Mystery

by Gladys Mitchell Mrs Bradley, sharp-eyed detective and celebrated psychiatrist, has decided to spend Christmas with her nephew at his beautiful house in the Cotswolds. It isn’t long before a mystery unfolds. There are strange events occurring in the nearby wood and local villagers are receiving anonymous threatening letters. Then the snow begins to fall – and a body is discovered. Mrs Bradley is on the case, but she’ll have to hatch an ingenious plan to reveal the truth and find the culprit.

The Big Book of Christmas Mysteries

by Otto Penzler From Victorian detective stories to modern mysteries, police procedurals to pulp fiction, comic gems to cosy crime, there's something for every festive mood in this must-read collection starring sixty of the world's favourite detectives. Featuring an all-star cast of authors including Arthur Conan Doyle, Colin Dexter, Thomas Hardy, H.R.F. Keating, John Mortimer, Sara Paretsky, Robert Louis Stevenson and – of course – Agatha Christie, this is the best Christmas crime anthology in print today.

Murder at the Old Vicarage

by Jill McGown Deepening snow has isolated the village of Byford from the outside world, but as the locals settle down for the festive period, the peace is suddenly destroyed with news of a violent crime at the vicarage. The victim is the vicar's son-in-law, but few are saddened by his death. And although Chief Inspector Lloyd is expecting an open-and-shut case, he is soon confronted with more than he bargained for. A classic homage to Agatha Christie, with a decidedly uncosy twist.

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 63

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Boden

PEOPLE & PLACES

NEW

Traditions Bored of turkey and repeats of It’s a Wonderful Life on TV? Shake things up this Christmas, says Kirsty France, with something borrowed and something new.

that one a miss. Let me know if you try it out – just be careful if you’re heading to the pub afterwards! My personal favourite is the ‘Book Flood’. In Iceland, people will exchange books on Christmas Eve then spend the rest of the evening in bed, reading and eating chocolate. Sounds like my idea of heaven!

The idea of borrowing traditions from other countries is nothing new. Christmas trees didn’t arrive in England until the Victorian era when Prince Albert brought one over from Germany. Tom Smith created Christmas crackers after being inspired by wrapped sugared almonds he’d seen in France. Even St Nicholas, the inspiration for Father Christmas, was born in modern day Turkey.

Dear Santa

So why stop there? Here’s just a few traditions that it might be fun to try (and some better left alone).

Christmas Eve

Church attendance might have fallen in Britain, but it’s still a big thing in Venezuela. In Caracas, the roads are closed on Christmas Eve so that everyone can roller skate to church! My seven-year old has only just learned to skate so I think we’ll give

I’ve always been a bit peeved that we put in all this hard work to buy presents for the kids, then Santa takes all the credit. In Canada, letters posted to Santa get a personalised reply. It would be lovely if someone could set up something similar over here. After all, I’d have to be a complete Scrooge not to melt a bit at the thought of my children reading their own letter from Santa. However, on balance I prefer the Italian approach. Over there, it’s not Santa who get the letters – it’s Mum and Dad. Children in Italy write to their parents telling them how much they love them on Christmas Eve. Excuse me, I seem to have something in my eye…

Festive Feast

Let’s be honest, we’ve already stolen

turkey dinners from the Americans and we’re unlikely to give them up any time soon. If you have a strong urge to spend Christmas Eve in the kitchen, you could do worse than to follow the Ukrainian tradition of serving up a 12-course meal. This includes, among other things, a soup, pickled herring, smoked salmon, dumplings, crepes and fish balls. Then there’s cake, if you’re not already full up.

In Iceland, people will exchange books on Christmas Eve If you’d rather keep it simple, try Lebkuchen, a gingerbread type biscuit from Germany. They’re usually chocolate coated and are available in supermarkets if you don’t fancy baking them yourself. Of course, if you really want to ring the changes, why not invent your own traditions? It’s Christmas, so have some fun. If you want to spend the day at the beach, volunteer in a homeless shelter or stay in your pyjamas playing board games, go ahead. Whatever you’re doing, have a happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year. URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 65

Perfect partywear

Whistles

Best for beauty

Clinique

Festive indulgence

Lots of chocolate

It’s not Xmas lunch without…

Pigs in blankets

MY WAY

On the box

Call the Midwife

Lisa Kettell

“I was interested in the sociological aspect of why and how we shop”, says Lisa Kettell, Sales & Marketing Director at Kettell Windows. I was born and raised in Shepshed near Loughborough along with my two brothers. My mother worked for a local butcher and one of my fondest memories is when she took us on deliveries. Some of the regular customers would knit us mittens and give us chocolates. They looked forward to seeing us, and we them. I attended a local primary school and later De Lisle Catholic School in Loughborough. Having completed my A-Levels, I headed to Bristol University to study Sociology. I was unsure on my career path, so chose instead a subject I enjoyed.

Unfortunately, it wasn’t the right job for me. I spent a lot of time crunching data and missed the negotiations and decision making required in my previous posts. So, with the support of my husband I decided to take a leap of faith and left the corporate world to work for a family run business close to home. Gone were the large departments supporting product delivery, it was now me along with a small team learning to be a Jack (or rather Jill) of all trades.

After university I went into retail. I was interested in the sociological aspect of why and how we shop; and how buyers set trends and tailor offerings to target consumers. My first role was in e-Procurement at Argos, and I later moved into the global sourcing team, working with the category buyers. Working in this team made me realised I wanted their job, so I took a position at Boots as Assistant Buyer and from there moved onto Lloyds Pharmacy as Buyer.

I helped to develop and deliver the company’s online proposition, working with retail giants such as Amazon and Tesco. The job required long hours and overseas travel, but I absolutely loved it! It was only when my daughter was born and two years later my son, that I realised juggling a challenging job and a young family was both demanding and exhausting. Added to that my husband’s double-glazing business was expanding and it became clear something had to give. After a lot of soul-searching I decided to leave my job and join the family business – Kettell Windows.

In 2013 I decided to move up the ladder again and took a role at Mars Petcare.

As the Sales and Marketing Director, I’m devoted to changing the face of

Christmas track

Stay Another Day, East 17 All I want for Xmas is…

Snow!

Fav family tradition

Playing a boardgame on Christmas night double glazing! No one wants a sales rep in their house for hours, offering ludicrously high prices, only to discount by 40% or 50%. I want our customers to be as excited at designing windows for their home, as they would a kitchen. The industry has innovated considerably over the last few years and I’m keen that our showroom showcases the latest market developments. From replica sash and timber windows, to bi-folding & sliding patio doors, there is so much more choice than the white plastic windows of old. For 2019 we’re launching a new website and looking to expand to a second site to display living spaces and garden offices. It’s an exciting time for the business and I’m so glad I made the move. There’s something so satisfying about creating something you’re emotionally invested in, but it can be hard to switch off too. The business only truly closes over the Christmas period, so this is a precious time to spend with friends and family. This year I’m thinking long lunches, bracing walks and perhaps a cheeky port and brandy to warm me up. But with a three-year old and a one-year old, I might be wishful thinking!

Find us on

a family name, a family business

Specialists in Aluminium & UPVC Windows & Doors, Living Spaces & Heritage Styles SHOWROOM OPEN 7 DAYS Kettell Windows, Unit 12, The Warren, East Goscote, Leicestershire LE7 3XA 0116 2696721 | sales@kettellwindows.co.uk | kettellwindows.co.uk

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2018 67

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