Urban Fox - February 2018 Issuu by Steve Lenaghan

URBANFOX Join the conversation

February 2018

WIN

Alta Fitbit Watch Elemis Goodies Recipe Books

Heart of

HOLLYWOOD Hygge life MICHELLE WILLIAMS Get your hygge on INTERVIEW

CHOP &

CHANGE SS18 READY TO WEAR HAIR

MEAT FREE

MONDAYS

feel good inside & out

Changing rooms

LOVE IT OR LIST IT

Bankart Avenue, Oadby Price: ÂŁ465,000

Charming Semi-Detached Family Home on Stoneygate / Oadby Border Attractive Period Features Four Bedrooms, Master with Ensuite Modern Open Plan Dining Kitchen Established, Mature Garden Driveway & Garage Popular Quiet Tree Lined Avenue Close to Renowned Schooling Easy Access to City Centre EPC rating E

T: 0116 270 5900 F: 0116 274 5732

info@fothergillwyatt.com www.fothergillwyatt.com

Knighton Church Road, South Knighton Guide Price: Â£465,000

Tastefully Restored Victorian Semi-Detached in Popular Leafy Suburb Fully Refurbished to High Standard Wealth of Period Features Four Bedrooms, Two Bathrooms Extended Breakfast Kitchen Large Reception Rooms Good Size Lawned Garden Close to Schooling & City Centre No Upward Chain EPC rating D

Hello

If your New Year’s resolutions have been and gone, you new Asics are still in the box gathering dust and your dry January was…well wet, don’t give up! Wipe the slate clean and discover a more positive outlook for 2018 in this month’s All Change! edition of Urban Fox. Times up on those boring black basics. Vamp it up with a drop of oxblood and you’ll be Killing It in the fashion stakes! If you’re tired of your tote, trade it in for this season’s old skool staple…the backpack. It’ practical without compromising on style. And for those less inclined to Chop & Change their bags (you probably own a Bayswater) stay ahead of the curve with the latest trends, colours and cuts defining the SS18 catwalks. From crazy curls to wet and wild, they’re the ultimate go to styles for mums on the run. Combine with our 10 minute makeover and awesome activewear and voilà it’s You, Only Better.

COVER SHOT: Anya Waterproof Mac, £140, Boden

Interact with us theurbanfoxmediagroup

If you’re more slummy than yummy, Rebecca Watts has got the perfect lifestyle plan for you in A Lazy Girl Guide…to healthier living. Sometimes you really can have the gain without the pain. Not convinced? Dip a toe with our Meat Free Monday challenge. Switch your gammon for salmon just one day a week and feel good both inside and out. Cutting meat from your diet really doesn’t have to cost the earth!

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

urbanfoxmag

Follow our boards for what’s influencing the creation of our magazine each month

From saving the planet to saving those pennies, we show you how to transform your décor with our best budget buys for under £50. And from new colour schemes to bursting at the seams, we’ve got the lowdown on the most popular ways to add space to your property in Changing Rooms. If you do decide to move to pastures new, a little home staging can go a very long way. Zoe Hubbard is Setting the Scene for a speedy sale on page 43.

@TheUrban_Fox Advertisers: be first to hear about forward features and promotional opportunities

We’d love to hear what you’re changing up in 2018; so head over to Facebook and #JointheConversation.

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

19 15 46-47

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

Nirvana & Blue Thistle Emulsion, from £12, B&Q

Pickett Clock, £29, Made

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

INTO THE

BLUE Transform your colour scheme with our selection of the buys for under £50. best budget

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

Clara Espresso Cup, £8, Oliver Bonas

Bloomingville Porcelain Table Lamp, £41, Amara

Iittala Kastehelm i Glass Bowl, £12, John Lewis

Windmill Slate Blue Wool Throw, £49.90, Rural Urban

Jersey Weave Cushion £29.50, M&S Steel Blue Eames Moulded Wire Frame Dining Chairs, £49, Danetti

Modena Gold Block Frame, £18, Oliver Bonas

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.

Textured Pottery Jug Vase, £35, M&S

URBAN FOX FEBRUA RY 2018 47

CONTRIBUTORS: Kirsty France, Jake Harvey, Zoe Hubbard, Sarah Mettrick, Rebecca Watts URBAN FOX FEBRUARY 2018 5

February 8

HEALTH & WELLBEING 23 Lazy girl guide to… …healthier living

25 Dress for success Look active be active

WINING & DINING 27 Meat free Mondays Feel good inside & out 31 Crepe expectations They’re flipping great!

LIFE & WORK 33 Waiting game The art of procrastination 34 Heart of Hollywood Michelle Williams interview 37 Keep calm & carry on New job jitters

FASHION & BEAUTY

HOMES & GARDENS

8 Killing it! The lady is a vamp

39 Purple reigns Potty over purple

11 Back to cool Old skool backpacks 13 Hygge life Get your hygge on

43 Setting the scene All the world’s a stage 46 Into the blue Best budget buys 50 C hanging rooms Love it or list it 55 G row girl Gardening: diva style

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 57 What’s on Entertaining the whole family 61 Reviews February’s recommendations

15 Jewel rules Update your lingerie

PEOPLE & PLACES

17 Chop & change SS18 ready to wear hair

65 New horizons A break from the routine

19 You only better 10 minute makeover

66 My way Local spotlight on Stacey Barthorpe

WIN ALTA WATCH

WIN POSH PANCAKES

WIN EXOTIC COLLECTION

by Fitbit

by Sue Quinn

from Elemis

The new Cayenne. Extreme sports for team players. Discover more at porsche.co.uk/Cayenne

Porsche Centre Leicester Fletton Close Thurmaston Lane Leicester LE4 9LP 01162 764488 info@porscheleicester.co.uk www.porscheleicester.co.uk

Fuel economy figures for the Cayenne Turbo in l/100km (mpg): Urban 16.4-16.2 (17.2-17.4); Extra Urban 9.5-9.2 (29.7-30.4); Combined 11.9-11.7 (23.7-24.1) CO2 emissions in g/km 272 - 267 g/km. The fuel economy and CO2 figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results, are provided for comparability purposes only and may not reflect your actual driving experience.

Artie Bag, £950, Jimmy Choo

Cold Shoulder Blouse, £79, Mint Velvet Mint Velvet

Contour Tregging, £35, Mint Velvet

Kayla Stretch Suede Ankle Boots, £118, L.K. Bennett

Michael Kors

Dark Like Me Nail Varnish, £19, Smith & Cult

Beckie Faux Fur Coat, £199, Phase Eight

Killing

IT!

Vamp up your winter wardrobe with a drop of oxblood. Trust us, it looks much better than it sounds!

Libi Shoe Boot, £79, Mint Velvet Vintage Vamp Palette, £39, Charlotte Tilbury Sparkle Ruched Sleeve Jumper, £15, Warehouse

Audrey Sweater, £69, Hobbs Zadie Oxblood Leather Shoulder Bag, £78, L.K. Bennett

Alexandra Belted Coat, £199, Whistles Tom Ford Lip Colour, £40, Selfridges

Olivia Leather Skirt, £195, Reiss

Michael Kors

Robyn Red Floral Dress, £250, L.K. Bennett

20% Off + Free Delivery & Returns* Code: UF618 Shop online at Baukjen.com *Terms and conditions apply. Not in conjunction with any other offer. See website for details. Valid until 31/03/18

FASHION & BEAUTY

BACK TO

COOL

Switch your tired tote for this old skool staple. The ultimate work-to-weekend bag, it’s practical without compromising on style.

1 Dahlier Backpack, £70, Dune London 2 Maddie Backpack, £245, Modalu 3 Editor’s Pick: 3-in-1 with hand-held & crossbody options too Bayswater Backpack, £795, Mulberry 4 Hoodia Backpack, £320, Net-A-Porter 5 Trippa Rucksack, £59.95, Joules 6 Verity Backpack, £180, Whistles 7 Thea Backpack, £149, Mint Velvet 8 Chiltern Backpack, £895, Mulberry 9 Salisbury Backpack, £295, Whistles

URBAN FOX FEBRUARY 2018 11

PANTONE 446 U

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OURRANGES RANGESINCLUDE INCLUDE OUR AnnBalon Balon Ann Anvrdie Anvrdie BettyBarclay Barclay Betty Bianca Bianca Capollini Capollini Condici Condici Dents Dents DorisStreich Streich Doris Dynasty Dynasty Emreco Emreco EugenKlein Klein Eugen Faber Faber FrankLyman Lyman Frank FrankWalder Walder Frank Georgede Georgede Godske Godske Gollehaug Gollehaug Habella Habella Just JustWhite White Lebek Lebek Maria MariaBellentani Bellentani Michaela MichaelaLouisa Louisa Naya Naya NYDJ NYDJJeans Jeans Olsen Olsen Passioni Passioni Rabe Rabe Sommermann Sommermann Turnover Turnover Van VanDal Dal

Mint Velvet

FASHION & BEAUTY

Morpho & Luna Cashmere Jumper, £310, Harvey Nichols

Cashmere Bed Socks, £35, Christy

Skandinavisk Flamma Scented Candle, £29, Osmology

Spring may be around the corner but there’s still time to get your hygge on. Think cashmere, candles and cosy woollen socks for an everyday seasonal sanctuary. Staying in has never looked so chic! UGG Duffield Fleece Robe, £120, House of Fraser

HYGGE

LIFE Chunky Cable Knit Throw, £69, Marks & Spencer

Lights Out Cashmere Eye Mask, £35, Quinn

Johnstons Hot Water Bottle & Cashmere Cover, £89, Selfridges

Roxy Slipper Boots, £59, Lexington

Morpho & Luna Cashmere Trousers, £260, Harvey Nichols

W W W. FA N TA S I E . C O M

NADINE. Range featured D-H cup. Available at Debenhams, JD Williams, John Lewis, Lingerie Outlet Store, Littlewoods, Next, Selfridges and all good independents.

FASHION & BEAUTY

JEWEL

RULES

Change up your lingerie drawer this season with a palette of precious tones. From every day to Valentine’s Day we’ve got you covered.

1 Ciao Bella Balconette Bra & Tanga Brief, £32/£16, B.Tempt’d 2 Zoe Triangle Bra & High Waist Brief, £28/£17, Boux Avenue 3 Pulse Underwire Bra & Thong, £26/£12, Figleaves 4 Champs Elysees Balconette Bra & Shorty, £62/£36, Chantelle 5 Editor’s Pick: Why wear one gorgeous colour when you can wear them all Chelsea Bloom Jewel Plunge Balcony Bra & Brief, £30/£13, Freya 6 Autograph Bra & Knicker, £22.50/£10, Marks & Spencer 7 Chrystalle Balcony Underwired Bra & Short, £56/£35, Wacoal 8 Angelina Side Support Bra & Deep Thong, £47/£25, Fantasie 9 Elomi Matilda Plunge Bra & Brief, £40/£22, Leia Lingerie URBAN FOX FEBRUARY 2018 15

Scan for Offers

3-5 Gallowtree Gate | Leicester | LE1 5AD www.modagreco.co.uk | 0116 2629201

FASHION & BEAUTY

Chop &

Tom Ford

CHANGE Stay ahead of the curve as we reveal the latest trends, colours and cuts defining the SS18 catwalk.

DIRTY BLONDE

CRAZY CURLS

Vivienne Hu

Big hair don’t care! Last season’s obsession with curly and natural textured hair has just got bigger! Ditch the straightening irons and embrace your spirals and curls. Use a hydrating gel-oil hybrid that controls the curls without the crispiness.

The go-to colour of the year, dirty blonde has seen a recent resurgence. An easier alternative to icy and platinum hues, simply keep the roots dark and the lengths a warm golden blonde. The contrast looks great and needs minimal maintenance for mums on the run.

Tom Ford

Vivienne Hu Pamella Roland

Wispy pixie cuts were a big hit on the Tom Ford catwalk. Worried it won’t suit you? We’ll let you into a little secret. Ford’s models hadn’t actually gone short, instead their hair was twisted and pinned at the back #FakingIt!

BOY CUT

MICRO FRINGE Jason Wu

The ultimate statement, baby bangs are the fringe of choice for 2018. Offset this edgy style with mid length or long locks, to create a contemporary contrast between strength and femininity. You’ll need to cut your fringe regularly, to keep bang on trend.

WET & WILD Yes, the wet look is back for 2018. From Jason Wu and Phillip Lim, looking like you’ve just got caught in a downpour is incredibly now! Wear straight and loose for the school run, or rock the bedhead look for weekends and nights out.

URBAN FOX FEBRUARY 2018 17

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YOU

ONLY BETTER

FASHION & BEAUTY

If you’re a mum on the run, Clarins’ 10 minute makeover creates a flawless finish with just eight makeup essentials.

INSTANT LIGHT RADIANCE BOOSTING COMPLEXION BASE. The ideal base for your BB Cream. Smooth from the middle of the face outwards for flattering radiance. INSTANT CONCEALER. Warm between fingertips and pat onto the under eye area. It’s lightweight so it won’t crease, while still offering fantastic coverage. SKIN PERFECTING CREAM SPF25. Apply using your fingertips, warming the product onto your skin with gentle smoothing motions. Work from the middle of the face outwards, and blend at your neck.

OMBRE MINERALE EYE SHADOW. This mineral based shadow offers a soft wash of colour across the lid. Blend outwards to create a more natural look.

BE LONG MASCARA. This’ll make your eyes look instantly vibrant and wide awake. Wiggle the wand from the bottom of the lashes to the tip.

MULTI BLUSH. Apply with one clean finger, blend with another! The cream turns into a powder finish upon application, leaving a soft glow.

CRAYON KHOL EYELINER PENCIL EYELINER. Offers instant definition without fuss. Draw this pencil across the upper lash line and gentle blend using the brush tip.

INSTANT LIGHT NATURAL LIP PERFECTOR. The perfect all-rounder. Apply the soft balm to the lips for a nourished, plumped pout with a hint of colour.

URBAN FOX FEBRUARY 2018 19

Retreat To R Retreat This Winter

We have the pleasure of indulging you in handpicked experiences, welcoming you to a haven of sensory well-being! Elemis ¦ Facials ¦ Massages ¦ Body Wraps & Scrubs ¦ Brows by Mii Manicures ¦ Pedicures ¦ Spray Tanning ¦ Waxing R Retreat Beauty. 54 London Road, Oadby LE2 5DH 011 6 2 717 183 ¦ www.theretreatbeautysalon.com Supporting British brands that are natural & ethical towards animals.

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Joules

A LAZY GIRL GUIDE TO

HEALTHIER LIVING Did you resolve to overhaul your lifestyle in 2018 to become fitter, healthier and happier, only to have fallen off the wagon come February? Don’t give up, says Rebecca Watts from TheStudios40, here’s how to get back on track. First things first, ditch the ‘all change’ approach for a less drastic ‘change of mindset’. Yes the results won’t be as instant, but you’re more likely to stay focussed, while still getting the results you want. Sometimes you really can have the gain without the pain. Here’s how…

Don’t jump head first

Jumping into any new change is never a good idea. It’s important to properly consider your goals, then plan and prepare for the success of those goals. A goal without a plan is just a dream, so a plan of action will help keep you focused and heading in the right direction, plus help you cope when things get tough. It’s also important to consider when to start your new lifestyle plan. New Year’s resolutions often fail as you’re

out of your normal routine. Waiting a few weeks into the New Year until you’re back to work and the children are settled at school can make all the difference to your success. February is a great month to start!

Take baby steps

Begin by making a list of habits you want to change this year. Then pick 1-2 a month to tackle. It may not get you instant results, but then the ‘all change’ approach each year hasn’t either. Even with taking this more softly softly approach, by next Christmas you’ll have 12-24 great new habits that you’re able to stick too, without restricting your life. Make sure your goals and habits are accountable and can be measured. Write them down, monitor and log progress. If you struggle to turn the behaviour into a habit in a month, don’t give up, simply try again the following month until you conquer it.

Focus on good mental health

The better your mental health the more likely you are to achieve your goals so make sure you prioritise this. Try to build some of these into your monthly habit choices - take a walk in the fresh air each day, reduce your sugar intake, drink more water, exercise regularly, take time for yourself, get enough good quality sleep – and you’ll soon notice that you’re feeling more motivated, focussed and positive

about life and subsequently make better lifestyle choices. And don’t forget to be more mindful. It’s easy to rush through life without taking time to notice. Paying more attention to the present moment – to your own thoughts and feelings, and to the world around you – can really improve your mental wellbeing. You could also try meditation or take up yoga to help connect with your mind, body and soul.

Kick start your efforts

Incorporate these two simple but effective habits into your lifestyle this month and experience the benefits: Increase your water intake. It will boost your energy, help your body function better, plus make you more focussed. Aim for 2-3 litres per day, but if you’re currently a long way from this goal start with a small increase and conquer that first. Increase your non-exercise activity (or NEAT). Walking to work, standing at your desk, cleaning, cooking etc. can help you burn up to 500 calories more a day without trying too hard. One way of tracking your NEAT is to monitor your steps with a pedometer, Fitbit or similar.

Good luck! URBAN FOX FEBRUARY 2018 23

BOOT CAMP

Class of the month Boot Camp Just £1 per class this February*

Tuesday 6.45pm and Thursdays 6.30pm ussc@uppingham.co.uk www.sportscentre.uppingham.co.uk *Terms & Conditions Apply

WIN!

AN ALTA FITNESS WATCH by Fitbit

Win this Fitbit Alta Wireless Activity and Sleep Tracking Smart Fitness Watch, worth £99.99 and have your own personal trainer with you all day long. Fitbit Alta will motivate you to move by delivering your fitness progress and real-life updates straight to your wrist. Lightweight, slim and elegant, this device will track steps taken, distance covered, calories burned and exercise sessions, as well as your sleeping pattern to get the full picture of your health. Receive text, call and calendar notifications when synced with your smartphone and set a silent alarm to help you wake up more naturally. The Fitbit app for iOS, Android and Windows Phones provides a platform for tracking and analysing your health and fitness. Record workouts, see a monthly exercise calendar & use MobileRun to track stats and map routes. Log food with a

barcode scanner and use the calorie estimator, meal shortcuts and expanded food database to ensure healthy eating. The app will even let you share your progress with friends and family, complete with leader boards. For more information visit www.fitbit. com/UK/store

TO ENTER:

Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to competitions@theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘Fitbit’ in the subject bar. Closing date for entries is Wednesday 28 February 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. Prize only available in plum colourway. The competition may be withdrawn at any time.

HEALTH & WELLBEING Swell Satin Water Bottle, £35, The Dressing Room

Elite Seamless Merino Run Hoody, £105, Sweaty Betty

Joules

DRESS

for Success With what you wear subconsciously altering how you act, it’s time to get off the sofa and dress for success. Grab a cute hoody or racer-back and feel your motivation soar.

Ronhill Momentum Poise Running Vest Top, £28, John Lewis

Fitbit Alta Fitness Wrist Band, £69.99, Amazon

Gel-Cumulus Trainers, £120, Asics

We’re active loving the from wear coll new ect Jou comf les. Functioion orta na colour ble and l, ful!

Shock Absorber Active Shape Support Bra, £32, Debenhams

Swift Print Active Print Leggings, £54.95, Joules Hilly Compression Monoskin Cushion Running Socklets, £9, John Lewis

URBAN FOX FEBRUARY 2018 25

3 courses for Â£28.50pp

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MODERN BRITISH FOOD British Tapas A la Carte Sunday Dining 61 Leicester Road, Mountsorrel, LE12 7A J 0116 237 6571 thespottedduck.co.uk

Meat Free

MONDAY

Whether you want to save the planet, the calories, or the pennies, cutting meat from your diet doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to cost the earth. Dip a toe with our Meat Free Monday recipes from Waitrose and feel good inside and out.

CHILLI BEAN CRUMBLE Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 40-45 minutes Serves: 6 Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil 400g pack Cooks’ Ingredients soffritto mix 1 tsp ground cinnamon 2 tsp hot smoked paprika 4 sprigs thyme 400g can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed 400g can borlotti beans, drained and rinsed

2 x 400g cans chopped tomatoes 200g dried green lentils 500g Macsween vegetarian haggis, chopped 50g wholemeal breadcrumbs

Heat the oil in a large flameproof, ovenproof casserole dish. Cook the soffritto mix for 5 minutes until softened then stir in the spices and 3 of the thyme sprigs and cook for 1 minute more.

Stir in the beans, tomatoes, lentils, two thirds of the haggis

and 300ml water. Bring to the boil, cover and simmer gently for 20 minutes until thickened.

Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 200˚C, gas mark 6. Crumble the remaining haggis into small pieces and mix with the leaves from the reserved thyme sprig and the breadcrumbs. Scatter over the top of the casserole and bake for 15 minutes until crusty and golden brown.

Cook’s tip: Soffritto is the base for many Tuscan dishes including sauces, soups and casseroles.

SPICED SALMON WITH CELERIAC SALAD For those that can’t go 100% veggie Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 20 minutes Serves: 4 Ingredients: 2 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp chilli powder 1 tsp dried oregano 2 x 240g packs lightly smoked Scottish salmon fillets Olive oil spray 250g 0% Greek yoghurt 1 tbsp Dijon mustard 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill 1 lemon 1 celeriac, about 600g 100g bag watercress

reheat the oven to 220˚C, gas mark P 7. Line a baking sheet with foil. Rub the spices and oregano into the salmon and place on the baking tray. Spritz lightly with oil and roast for 15-20 minutes until browned and cooked through.

eanwhile, in a large bowl, mix M together the yoghurt, mustard, dill and juice of ½ the lemon. Peel and shred or coarsely grate the celeriac, adding it to the dressing and turning to coat it as you go.

ut the remaining lemon half into 4 small C wedges. Divide the salmon, celeriac salad and watercress between 4 plates and top each with a lemon wedge.

Cook’s tip: Celeriac browns quickly so toss it with the dressing as you go along to prevent discolouration. Images and recipes: Waitrose

WINING & DINING

AKED SWEET B POTATOES WITH PEPPERS & GREENS Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 50-55 minutes Serves: 2 Ingredients: 1 pack sweet potatoes 1 tbsp olive oil 1 red pepper, seeded and sliced 100g spring greens, sliced ½ tsp cumin seeds 1 tbsp lemon juice 50g Greek light salad cheese, crumbled into small pieces 1 tsp sumac

Preheat the oven to 200˚C, gas mark 6. Prick the skin of the potatoes and bake for 50-55 minutes until tender.

eanwhile, heat the oil in a M frying pan and gently cook the pepper for 10-15 minutes until very tender. Add the spring greens and cumin seeds and cook for a further 5 minutes until the greens wilt (add a splash of water if the vegetables start to stick). Stir in the lemon juice and cheese and remove from the heat.

Cut the potatoes, squeeze gently to open and spoon in the filling. Sprinkle over the sumac and serve.

Cook’s tip: Try adding red onion in with the pepper or swap the greens for kale.

OPEN AT 6PM for the Best Early Doors this side of The Seafaring News

OPEN AT 6PM

OPEN AT 6PM for the Best Early for Doors the Best Early Doors this side of The Seafaring News this side of The Seafaring News

No. 9 Station Street No. 9 Station Street Kibworth Beauchamp Leicestershire LE8 0LN Kibworth Beauchamp Leicestershire LE8 0LN Telephone 0116 2796260 Telephone 0116 2796260 lighthousekibworth.co.uk

lighthousekibworth.co.uk Open for Dinner from 6pm Tuesday to Saturday Open for Dinner from 6pm Tuesday to Saturday

! N I W

POSH PANCAKES

No. 9 Station Street Kibworth Beauchamp Leicestershire LE8 0LN Telephone 0116 2796260 lighthousekibworth.co.uk Open for Dinner from 6pm Tuesday to Saturday

by Sue Quinn

From Paris to Palm Springs, pancakes are set to be the hot new food trend in 2018. People have discovered the joy of Sri Lankan hoppers, Keralan dosas, Japanese okonomiyaki, Vietnamese banh xeo, as well as the humble buttermilk, buckwheat and blini.

Posh Pancakes by Sue Quinn brings you over 70 recipes for this simple meal on a plate. Breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner and dessert, the dishes include Chinese pancakes with duck and hoisin sauce, Buckwheat galettes, Italian farinata, spicy Mexican hotcakes with smoky corn salad, and Chocolate and berry-stuffed pikelets. With a guide to basic pancake types and a photograph for every recipe, it’s flipping gorgeous! To be in with a chance of winning one of five copies, check out the entry details on the right.

TO ENTER:

Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to competitions@theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘Posh Pancakes’ in the subject bar. Closing date for entries No. 9 Station Street is Wednesday 28 February 2018. Kibworth Beauchamp Leicestershire LE8 0LN Telephone 0116 2796260

Terms & Conditions: The winner will be drawn after the specified closing lighthousekibworth.co.uk 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 Open for Dinner from 6pm Tuesday to Saturday competition may be withdrawn at any time.

Recipes & Images: Waitrose

Crepe

EXPECTATIONS

Shelve the classics for a contemporary take on the humble pancake. They’re flipping good!

Mango Mojito Pancakes Serves: 4 Ingredients: 2 ripe mangoes, peeled, stoned and sliced 3 tbsp golden rum or apple juice 2 tbsp light brown muscovado sugar Finely grated zest and juice of 1 lime 2 tbsp shredded fresh mint 120g natural coconut yogurt, to serve 100g plain flour 1 medium free range egg 300ml milk A little sunflower oil, for greasing Method: Place the mango in a heatproof bowl. Gently heat the rum (or apple juice) and sugar in a pan, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Pour over the mango and set aside to cool. Add most of the lime zest, juice and mint to the cooled mango, then chill until ready to serve.

Place the flour and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Make a well in the centre and crack in the egg and a little of the milk. Whisk together, gradually incorporating the remaining milk to make a smooth batter. Lightly grease a 20cm heavybased non-stick frying pan. Add enough batter to thinly coat the pan’s base and cook over a medium heat for about 1 minute, or until golden brown. Flip over and cook the other side until golden brown. Place on a warm plate and cover with greaseproof paper. Repeat to make 8 pancakes. Keep them warm by placing in the oven at 120°C, gas mark ½. Place 2 pancakes on each plate and top with the mango and the yogurt sprinkled with the remaining lime zest.

Chicken Tikka Pancakes Serves: 4 Ingredients: 125g plain flour 1 medium free range egg 300ml semi-skimmed milk 1 green chilli, deseeded and finely chopped 1 tsp ground cumin 2 tbsp sunflower oil 2 x 300g packs chicken breast chunks in a spiced tikka marinade 4 salad onions, sliced 4 tbsp mango chutney 4 tbsp low fat Greek yogurt Method: Sift the flour and a pinch of salt together into a bowl. Make a well in the centre and add the egg and half the milk. Whisk together well then stir in the rest of the milk to make a smooth batter. Stir in the chilli and cumin, and set aside for 30 minutes. Reserve 1 tbsp of the oil, then heat a little of the remaining oil in an 18cm pancake pan or shallow frying pan and add a ladleful of the batter. Swirl it around the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes each side until golden. Transfer to a plate and keep warm. Repeat with the remaining mixture to make 8 pancakes, keeping them warm, separated with sheets of kitchen paper. Heat the rest of the oil in a large, non-stick frying pan and cook the chicken for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through with no pink meat. Divide the chicken between the pancakes, putting it on one quarter of the pancake, and top with the salad onions, mango chutney and yogurt. Fold up the pancakes to make parcels, and serve.

• Contracts of Employment • Employee Handbooks and associated Policies • Assistance with all day to day HR issues • Learning and Development for all levels of management • Recruitment programmes • Appraisals and Performance Management • Redundancy and Reorganisation E emma.wood@mainstreethr.co.uk M 07713012295 W mainstreethr.co.uk

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Boden

LIFE & WORK

THE WAITING

GAME

Have you ever been told you’re procrastinating either by well-meaning friends or worse still, that annoying know-it-all voice that comes from within? Sarah Mettrick has. But things are about to change. Now we mustn’t confuse procrastination with laziness. I actually get so much done when I’m putting off doing something specific. Well there’s always something more important to do instead like organising the herbs and spices into alphabetical order - it’s a bugger when you can’t find the Five Spice. And then of course there’s the job of arranging one’s knickers into various categories, ranging from everyday comfort right up to the Agent Provocateur dental floss (the latter bought by husbands and we’re still fathoming out how to get them on) …a lady should be organised.

Setting milestones for yourself will help and when you reach them recognise and praise your efforts. So where were we? Ah yes procrastination, see how easy it is to

get distracted! So how do we achieve our goals in life? Well we need to stop thinking and start doing. But that’s the problem, there’s something inside us scared of starting. Perhaps we’re scared of hard work, or messing up, or maybe the task just seems too huge to tackle. If that’s the case we need to break it down into smaller chunks so we can crack on. In the words of Martin Luther King “You don't have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” I do love an inspirational quote! Setting milestones for yourself will help and when you reach them recognise and praise your efforts. Achieving goals is a sure way to feel better about yourself. Don’t set yourself up to fail though, this will have the adverse effect. If you’re 75 with arthritic hips it’s highly unlikely you’ll smash the world record for the high jump. On the other hand don't use that old chestnut of an excuse “I’m not good enough”, to stop you heading for

your dreams. A good dollop of selfbelief is the way forward. Now if you’ve already tried and failed to reach your goal don't give up, just approach it differently. Us humans are brilliant at doing exactly the same thing to get what we want even though it didn't work before. In the words of Albert Einstein “Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.’’

Achieving goals is a sure way to feel better about yourself. Finally, try picturing yourself having accomplished your goal. Close your eyes, what can you see, hear and smell? Get really stuck in and do the details. How do you feel, how happy do you look? Get a taste of how it’d be to get what you want, this will get your juices flowing and spur you on. And when you do get there, when your courage, tenacity and hard work have paid off and you can finally touch your dreams, well …in the words of the great Jimmy Krankie “FAN-DABI-DOZI”! URBAN FOX FEBRUARY 2018 33

HEART OF

Hollywood Tinseltown may be in the midst of a gender equality crisis, but the steely, stubborn and courageous Michelle Williams remains impervious to its seedier nature, even when unwittingly thrown into the eye of the storm.

LIFE & WORK

Over her impressive career, Michelle Williams has played every female archetype. In Dawson’s Creek she was the girl next door, in Brokeback Mountain the longsuffering wife, the wistful lover in Blue Valentine, and in My Week with Marilyn, she played the siren with Oscarwinning poise. And yet it is not her choice of roles which make her so captivating, but her ability to imbue every character with verve, compassion and breathtaking candour. Of course, these are traits which the 37-year-old actress clearly possesses herself, for when asked how she feels about her recent Golden Globes nomination - which in the end went to Frances McDormand for her turn in Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri – and the near-certainty of a fifth Oscar nomination, her response to such accolades is typical of the gorgeous star: “Yes, I appreciate it and am so grateful, especially because my daughter gets so excited for me.” In All the Money in the World, Williams plays Gail Harris, the mother of 16-yearold John Paul, kidnapped in Italy and held ransom for $17million. His grandfather, oil baron J. Paul Getty refused to pay, citing the safety of his 14 other grandkids who would be targets if he met their demands. A taut and satisfying thriller, the real-life tale is certainly worth telling, and yet the circumstances surrounding All the Money in the World is a movie in itself. The film was scheduled for a January release, to coincide with award’s season. And then came the accusations – one after the other – of sexual harassment and misconduct against Kevin Spacey who was cast in the role of Getty. The fate of the movie looked bleak - no studio wanted to be associated with the disgraced star; and even Williams admits she was deeply uncomfortable with the situation, despite the months of hard work. “I don’t think I could have watched the movie and promoted it knowing this person was being glorified on the big screen. That wouldn’t have sat right,” she says firmly. But rather than admit defeat, director Ridley Scott, mere weeks before

release, hired Christopher Plummer as a replacement as Getty and assembled all the cast and crew for nine days of punishing reshoots. The press guffawed at such flagrancy by Scott, but by some stroke of genius, he completed his changes in less than two weeks, erasing Spacey’s performance entirely. “To be able to go back and rewrite the story was a gift I never could have dreamt of,” says Williams. “Ridley couldn’t, wouldn’t let any of our efforts disappear and be forgotten. He wanted to change the ending of the story for all of us. And only he could take on a logistical nightmare like this and come out the other side. If it wasn’t for his bravery, compassion and respect, we wouldn’t have even got the chance to promote the project. The experience working on this was love, and if we weren’t talking today about a movie filled with so much love, that would’ve made me so sad.” Naturally such reshoots cost time and money, with Williams explaining that the filming had to be done over Thanksgiving, meaning she would need to sacrifice spending the special holiday with Matilda, her 12-year-old daughter with late actor Heath Ledger. The youngster took the news surprisingly well. “She was disappointed, briefly, but she got it and said, ‘Go Mum, you have to’. She knew it would make me happy and as she gets older, she wants - and understands wanting - that happiness for me, as much as I want it for her,” says the star, beaming proudly. For Williams, the decision to reshoot was a no-brainer, saying emphatically: “I was there and ready, it didn’t matter to me, I would’ve worked 24 hours, every day, whatever we need to do. Take my salary, I don’t want it - use the money to do this and finish what we started.” At any other time in cinematic history, that would have likely been the end of the story, but within weeks of the film’s release, All the Money in the World was hitting headlines once more when it transpired that co-star Mark Wahlberg was paid $1.5million for the reshoots,

while Williams made just $1,000, or $80 a day. In response, the actor donated his fee to the Time's Up Legal Defence Fund in co-star Michelle Williams' name.

This fallout of men of power - the momentum is speeding up, not slowing down, and as a mother with a daughter, I’m so excited for her In many ways, All the Money in the World has unwittingly become the poster film for a disgraceful period in Hollywood, highlighting not just the horror and shame of the rampant sexual misconduct within the industry, but also the gender pay gap, an argument which has been simmering for months and yet still seems to be unsolved. But even a dark shadow over her hard work cannot dispel the relentless optimism of Williams, who, when asked for her opinion on the current wave of change sweeping through Hollywood, replies brightly: I’m excited! I’m armed and ready. For so long, I’ve been saying I didn’t think or I wasn’t sure if this toxic climate was going to ever go away or remotely change, and I don’t think that anymore. I truly believe after these past months, it’s going to change. I think the shift is too seismic for it to be only a phase that gets eclipsed by the next media frenzy. I don’t see that. Look at where we are right now to where we were a year ago.” Williams notes the current surge of public outrage which she believes may be a reaction to America’s last presidential election – “I think people have become so outraged with this abuse in authority!” – referencing last year’s women’s march and the protests in Alabama with defiant glee, adding: “This fallout of men of power - the momentum is speeding up, not slowing down, and as a mother with a daughter, I’m so excited for her world and how different it will be. I have real faith and optimism in that.” URBAN FOX FEBRUARY 2018 35

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Open Morning

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LIFE & WORK

KEEP CALM

& CARRY ON Starting a new job is a really exciting time, but those first weeks and months can still be daunting. Here’s our tips on how to become part of the office furniture.

What to wear

If it wasn’t apparent at your interview, before your first day find out what the dress code is. Even if you already work in the same industry, companies can vary, so whether it’s casual or corporate, make sure you look the part.

take your time and get to know how everything operates before reaching any conclusions.

Understand the business

Get on the grapevine

Get to grips with the structure and culture of your new workplace. Spend time understanding the company’s industry, its clients, products, services, market etc. Show an interest in what your new workplace does and who they are.

Speak to your boss

He/she might be busy but try to grab half an hour with them during your first week. You can discuss your role, responsibilities and objectives. It’s important to build a relationship with your boss and show them that you are capable of doing the job.

Set up 1-2-1 chats

Connect with the members of your team. Use these one on one meetings to understand what they do, and how your roles interlink. Are there things you could do that would make their job easier?

Ask lots of questions

No one expects you to have all the answers, so do ask if you don’t know something about the organisation, a project or your role. Even if you’ve been brought in to solve a problem,

Find out what you need to know (relationships, missed promotions etc.) so you don’t put your foot in it. But remember while it’s good to pay attention to the office grapevine, don’t contribute to it. You don't want to get a reputation as the office gossip.

Suggest a team lunch

It’s a great way to show colleagues that you want to get to know them. If long lunches aren’t the norm, opt for drinks or a coffee after work instead. If alcohol is on the agenda, ensure you know when’s the right time to leave and avoid any unintentional indiscretions.

Learn names and faces

Make an effort to talk to others outside the team too. Every trip to the kitchen for a cup of coffee might seem like a major ordeal but the more people you know to say hello to, the easier it’ll be when you go into the office each day.

Manage expectations

Be realistic about what you can achieve, especially in the first few months. And don't set yourself up for a fall either.

Boden

If your new boss expects unrealistic results, raise the issue sooner rather than later, before it becomes a problem.

Don’t overdo it

It can be tempting to volunteer for projects either because you want to get stuck in or make a good impression. First complete the projects your boss has given you and only take on extra projects if you are confident you can do them well and on time.

Get a mentor

It never hurts to have an experienced, well-informed and successful colleague to bounce ideas off. From a basic sounding board to someone who helps direct and advance your career, joining a mentoring programme can offer numerous benefits.

Keep smiling

Finally, although it’s quite normal to feel anxious in those early days, don’t let nerves get the better of you. Take a deep breath and smile. Smiling increases endorphins, making you feel good, while exuding outward confidence and enthusiasm. Fake it until you make it! URBAN FOX FEBRUARY 2018 37

HOMES & GARDENS 1

Sui Anna

PURPLE

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5 6

1 Heather Tableware, from £8, Denby 2 Bloodstone Candle Holder, £25, Amara 3 Heathfield & Co Constance Lamp, £523, Houseology 4 Bronte by Moon Milan Throw, £69.95, Black By Design 5 Kaufmann Bench, £324, Bluesuntree, Leicester 6 Amethyst Wine Glass, £28 (set of 2), Denby 7 Roberts Revival Uno Radio £159.99, John Lewis 8 Stoneware Cafetière, £55, Le Creuset URBAN FOX FEBRUARY 2018 39

The Light House

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Images: Marks & Spencer

Setting

HOMES & GARDENS

THE SCENE Planning to put your house on the market in 2018? Zoe Hubbard from Maison Interiors explains how a little home staging can go a very long way.

SENSE APPEAL

Attract buyers by appealing to their senses. Apart from what they can see, think about how to appeal to their other senses. The smell of cut flowers and scented candles can be uplifting, while a water feature or soft music, can make viewers feel calm and relaxed in your home.

NEUTRAL GROUND

Choose a neutral colour palette. Now is not the time to experiment with funky lime green. That doesn't mean you need to go all white either. Rich mid-tone neutrals such as mocha and greige (mix of grey and beige) evoke both comfort and sophistication.

SPICK & SPAN

Don’t spend money on complete redecoration and new furniture. Spend time instead making your home sparkle and clutter free – but not stark. Rearrange existing furniture, pulling it away from the walls to create a cosy, relaxing environment; and dress rooms with throws, books and indoor plants.

SLEEP RETREAT KITCHEN SINK

Kitchens sell houses so do throw the kitchen sink at this room. Clear worktops and tidy your cupboards and pantry. Overcrammed units and drawers will suggest there’s an issue with space. If you have open shelving in your kitchen, show buyers how it can be useful and look great too.

As the focal point of the room your bed should create a luxe feel. Upholstered frames are very popular and layered with throws, blankets and cushions, add all-important texture. Buyers are especially drawn to natural materials as they suggest opulence and warmth.

URBAN FOX FEBRUARY 2018 43

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Jersey Weave Cushion £29.50, M&S

Steel Blue Eames Moulded Wire Frame Dining Chairs, £49, Danetti

Modena Gold Block Frame, £18, Oliver Bonas

Textured Pottery Jug Vase, £35, M&S

URBAN FOX FEBRUARY 2018 47

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EXOTIC COLLECTION from Elemis

Win this Exotic Frangipani Collection by Elemis (worth £94) and you could be layering your skin with the scent of Tahitian Monoi made from the traditional Polynesian method of infusing Coprah Oil with Tiare Flowers. Deeply moisturising, the Frangipani aromatic restores peace and harmony. Your prize collection will include: 1 x Exotic Frangipani Monoi Shower cream 200ml 1 x Frangipani Monoi Body Oil 100ml 1 x Frangipani Monoi Salt Glow Body Scrub 480g The Elemis range of award-winning beauty comprises rich moisturisers, exfoliating facial peels, and aromatic bath and body therapies, plus anti-ageing skincare and targeting treatments for delicate areas such as the eyes, neck, décolleté and hands.

To discover more visit www.elemis.com

TO ENTER:

Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to competitions@theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘Elemis’ in the subject bar. Closing date for entries is Wednesday 28 February 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 competition may be withdrawn at any time.

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Changing

ROOMS

Cramped in a 3 bed, kids toys taking over the house, and nowhere to entertain your friends? If your home no longer meets your family's needs, then it might be time for a change. But before you start packing the boxes, we reveal the most popular ways to add space and value to your property.

Before you get started, do recognise that not all home improvement projects will add value to your property. Some can make your house more saleable but they won’t necessarily add the amount spent to the selling price. But whether you decide to stay or go, take a look at these 5 ways to add both space and value to your property:

Loft Conversion

This is the easiest way to achieve an extra bedroom and bathroom and it doesn’t have to be too disruptive, as fortunately most of the work can be done from the outside. The key thing is to ensure that access to the loft is easy – spiral staircases can be problematic - and that the conversion compliments the rest of the house, rather than simply looking like it’s bolted on. In many cases a loft conversion is considered ‘permitted development’ so you won’t require planning permission. However, listed properties and those in conservation areas will require permission so do clarify with your local planning authority before you commence building work. Images: John Lewis

Conservatory

Extending your living area is always a good idea if you’re looking to add space and value to your property. If you opt for a conservatory, make sure it matches the style of the rest of the house – a modern metal structure attached to a cottage would not be in keeping - and avoid it looking like a separate appendage. Think about enhancing the feeling of space and flow by installing the same flooring throughout your downstairs living area or by following a particular colour scheme and/or design style throughout the space. This will help to extend the eye, ensuring that the conservatory feels like part of the rest of the house..

Reconfigured Layout Kitchen Upgrade

If you are only going to improve one room, make it the kitchen. Kitchens sell houses. It is the heart of the home, and with the move towards open plan living, the kitchen is not just for cooking. This might explain the increase in popularity of single storey kitchen extensions. The key to a knock-out kitchen is to create an attractive look with easy access between the sink, fridge and cooker. To avoid looking passé in a few years’ time, install equipment that is as up to date as you can possibly afford. Finally ensure the price bracket of your kitchen matches the price bracket of your house. A £10k kitchen in a £1m house will inevitably drag down the value.

A well thought-out reconfiguration will add value to your home. In many cases providing the rooms created are of sufficient size - it’s more cost effective to turn a two-bedroom house into a three-bedroom house than it is to invest in a new property with a third bedroom. If adding an additional room compromises the space, then consider knocking down non load-bearing walls to create more space but less rooms. Buyers are often more interested in the amount of usable space, rather than the number of bedrooms. Either way, a good builder will be able to re-design the floor plan to make the most of the space available.

Basement Conversion

This is the most expensive form of extension so do get your cost v profit calculations right before you get started. Any additions should remain in proportion to the original structure of the house. A small two-bed with a huge basement will make the property bottom-heavy. Basement conversions are also the most serious form of extension, as it affects the structural load of your property. You will need to hire specialists to do the design and installation, and it is likely you’ll need to move out for several months while the work is being done. That said, you can create amazing spaces underneath your home, which will allow your family to grow with the size of the property. Whatever you decide to do, don’t fall into the trap of overdeveloping… All properties have a ceiling price and, no matter what you do to it, your property won’t command an asking price that is significantly higher than other properties on your street.

URBAN FOX FEBRUARY 2018 51

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Beautiful spaces for work, rest and play

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HOMES & GARDENS 2 1

GROW

GIRL!

Fresh air, exercise and relaxation, makes gardening the fitness trend of choice for 2018. But if you’re more manicure than manure we’ve got the kit to help you weed, plant and prune in style. You grow girl! 7 9

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URBAN FOX FEBRUARY 2018 55

RAYMOND GUBBAY presents

New for 2018 - Sprinkled with magical special effects

Romeo & Juliet The Nutcracker Swan Lake

Performed by The Russian State Ballet of Siberia

Accompanied by The Orchestra of the Russian State Ballet

1 - 3 March

DE MONTFORT HALL - LEICESTER demontforthall.co.uk

0116 233 3111

Tickets

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(bkg fees apply)

Johan Persson

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

WHAT’S ON

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, 22 & 27 Feb, Phoenix Arts

FEBRUARY 2018

Mon 5 – Sat 10 Feb The Little Theatre Tickets from £13.50 thelittletheatre.net

Shy, reclusive Little Voice lives alone with her larger than life, out of control mother Mari. Desperately missing her dead father, Little Voice spends her time locked in her bedroom listening to his old record collection and perfecting impersonations of Shirley Bassey. When Mari starts dating small-time club agent Ray Say, she thinks he’s her last chance for a better life. When Ray Say hears Little Voice sing, he thinks she’s his ticket to the big time. This play contains some strong language.

Twelfth Night

Manuel Harlan

The Rise & Fall of Little Voice

Wed 14 Feb Phoenix Arts Tickets from £14 phoenix.org.uk

Twelfth Night is a tale of unrequited love – hilarious and heartbreaking. Two twins are separated in a shipwreck, and forced to fend for themselves in a strange land. The first twin, Viola, falls in love with Orsino, who dotes on OIivia, who falls for Viola but is idolised by Malvolio. Enter Sebastian, who is the spitting image of his twin sister! Christopher Luscombe, Director of Love’s Labour’s Lost and Much Ado About Nothing (2014 and 2016), returns to the Royal Shakespeare Company to tackle Shakespeare’s greatest comedy, a brilliantly bittersweet account of "the whirligig of time". Starring Kara Tointon and Adrian Edmonson. A RSC Stage on Screen production.

Bill Bailey, 26 & 27 Feb, DMH

Twelfth Night, 14 Feb, Phoenix Arts

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof Thu 22 & Tue 27 Feb Phoenix Arts Tickets from £13.50 phoenix.org.uk

Tennessee Williams’ twentieth century masterpiece Cat on a Hot Tin Roof played a strictly limited season in London’s West End in 2017. Following his smash hit production of A Streetcar Named Desire, Benedict Andrews’ ‘thrilling revival’ (New York Times) stars Sienna Miller, alongside Jack O’Connell and Colm Meaney. On a steamy night in Mississippi, a Southern family gather at their cotton plantation to celebrate Big Daddy’s birthday. The scorching heat is almost as oppressive as the lies they tell. Brick and Maggie dance round the secrets and sexual tensions that threaten to destroy their marriage. With the future of the family at stake, which version of the truth is real – and which will win out? Part of the National Theatre Live series.

Bill Bailey

Mon 26 & Tue 27 Feb De Montfort Hall Tickets £27.50 demontforthall.co.uk Bill Bailey’s Larks in Transit is a compendium of travellers’ tales and the general shenanigans of twenty years as a travelling comedian. With musical virtuosity, surreal tangents and trademark intelligence, Bill Bailey tackles politics, philosophy and the pursuit of happiness. Plus, he fashions a symphony from a ringtone, tells the real story of Old McDonald, and a re-imagines the Stars and Stripes. Two decades of touring larks from a comic described by the Daily Telegraph as “the brainiest comic of his generation.”

Of Mice & Men Wed 28 Feb - Sat 3 Mar Uppingham Theatre Tickets £9 uppthearts.co.uk

This revival of Nobel Prize winner John Steinbeck's play is a powerful portrait of the American spirit and a heart-breaking testament to the bonds of friendship. It is a wonderfully epic, edge of the seat production, which tells the story of

Of Mice & Men, 28 Feb - 3 Mar, Uppingham Theatre

George Milton and Lennie Small, two displaced migrant ranch workers, who move from place to place in California in search of new job opportunities during the Great Depression in the United States. This gripping piece of theatre will have you simply stunned by such emotional performances.

Swan Lake

Sat 3 Mar De Montfort Hall Tickets from £18 demontforthall.co.uk Performed by the Russian State Ballet of Siberia, the greatest romantic

ballet of all time is brought to life by Tchaikovsky’s haunting and unforgettable score. From the impressive splendour of the Palace ballroom to the moon-lit lake where swans glide in perfect formation, this compelling tale of tragic romance has it all. From Odile, the temptress in black tulle as she seduces the Prince by spinning with captivating precision to the spellbound purity of the swan queen, Odette as she flutters with emotional intensity, the dual role of Odette/Odile is one of ballet’s most unmissable technical challenges. Other performances at DMH include Romeo and Juliet and The Nutcracker on 1-2 March.

Austen The Musical Wed 7th Mar Harborough Theatre Tickets £12 harboroughtheatre.com

Austen The Musical, 7 Mar, Harborough Theatre

Award-winning songwriter and BBC Radio 2 Golden Oldie Nominee, Rob Winlow is delighted to present the full version of his new musical adaptation of Jane Austen’s life and loves. Austen The Musical is a celebration of Jane’s life and explores her struggle to become a published author in a male dominated society, her failed romances and her vow to reject a woman’s conventional lifestyle in Georgian England. Austen The Musical is full of stunning songs with moments of joy, despair and heart-wrenching sadness. This fresh, new, musical production has previously played at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Jane Austen Festival, York New Musical Festival, and a small tour – all to sell out audiences. With Broadway director Tim Trimingham at the helm it’s now on a nationwide UK Tour.

Welcome to Wingates Gallery in Market Harborough

Our friendly gallery provides you with a warm welcome and an amazing range of art including: • Originals • Limited Editions • Sculptures • Bespoke Framing So, whether it’s floral, landscapes, seascapes, abstract, glassware or ceramics that you prefer – we have something just for you. Come in and see us - the coffee pot is always on and we would be delighted to show you around the newly refurbished gallery with plenty of new artists’ collections to see. A warm welcome awaits you.

Wingates Walk, 44a St Mary’s Road, Market Harborough LE16 7DU shop@wingatesgallery.co.uk 01858 465455 www.wingatesgallery.co.uk Open: Mon to Sat 10am to 6pm

THE CLASSIC ROCK SHOW GUITAR GREATS

Tuesday 20 February

BALLET

ROMEO AND JULIET, THE NUTCRACKER, SWAN LAKE

Thursday 1 – Saturday 3 March

THE MAGIC OF MOTOWN Saturday 7 April

0116 233 3111

PAUL CARRACK Friday 23 February

BILL BAILEY

LARKS IN TRANSIT

Monday 26 & Tuesday 27 February

BUDDY HOLLY & THE CRICKETERS

FLASHDANCE

THE 60TH ANNIVERSARY SHOW

Monday 26 – Saturday 31 March

GRUMPY OLD WOMEN TO THE RESCUE

CRAZY FOR GERSHWIN

Friday 16 March

Sunday 29 April

Tuesday 17 April

demontforthall.co.uk

@demontforthall

demontforthall

film REVIEW

Lady Bird (15)

1 hr 34 mins Opens nationwide Fri 23 Feb 0116 242 2800 | phoenix.org.uk Greta Gerwig (Frances Ha) makes her directorial debut in fine style with the wonderful Lady Bird starring Saorise Ronan. Christine ‘Lady Bird’ McPherson (Ronan) is determined to escape the confines of her provincial Sacramento life for the freedom and sophistication of a New York university. We follow Lady Bird through her last year of high school as she experiences first love, broken and mended friendships and the excitement and sadness of leaving home.

book REVIEW

For those looking to try something new.

usual that nimbly avoids the portrait of growing-up elief. f-b sel d an An original, nuanced ip of friendsh favour of a celebration coming-of-age clichés in

Given such well-trodden narrative territory you’d be forgiven for assuming Lady Bird is just another angst-ridden, teenage movie, but this would be to dismiss an inspired piece of cinema. As writer and director, Gerwig has crafted an original, nuanced portrait of growing-up that nimbly avoids the usual coming-of-age clichés in favour of a celebration of friendship and self-belief. In an industry where physical beauty holds so much sway, Saorise Ronan puts in a bravely

unglamorous performance as the slightly awkward and occasionally thoughtless ‘Lady Bird’. Paired with Laurie Metcalf, she makes for inspired casting, ably expressing both the love and antagonism that lies at the heart of all mother-daughter relationships. Metcalf has been a powerful screen presence ever since her tenure as Jackie in the TV show Roseanne, but here she is given the space to show the full range of her acting talents. Packed with immense heart and humour, Lady Bird is an absolute must-see.

The SHED Method

by Sara Milne Rowe Every day we’re bombarded with decisions. So many in fact, that we’re getting worse at making them. According to Sara Milne Rowe making better choices starts with a sensible balance of Sleep, Hydration, Exercise and Diet - your SHED. Taking control of your SHED will help you to stop answering emails in bed, finish what you start, stop agreeing to things that you don't want to do, be resilient in the face of setbacks and improve your response to stress and worry. Full of step-by-step advice, The SHED Method will change the way you think about life, work and relationships.

A Life Less Throwaway

by Tara Button Tara Button has become a champion of a lifestyle called ‘mindful curation’ – a way of living in which we carefully choose each object in our lives, instead of surrounding ourselves with throwaway stuff and appliances with built-in obsolescence. Tara advocates a life that celebrates what lasts, what is classic and what really suits a person. There are 10 steps to master mindful curation, including understanding and using techniques to free yourself from external manipulations; finding your purpose and priorities and identifying your core tastes and style.

The Midlife Kitchen

by Mimi Spencer and Sam Rice Midlife is a glorious opportunity to wrestle back control of your eating in the interests of health, happiness and a long life. This is what The Midlife Kitchen is all about: eating gorgeous ingredients in the most delicious combinations to give yourself the best possible odds for a healthy future. Mimi Spencer and Sam Rice have created more than 150 recipes to restore, rejuvenate and revive. With these recipes, you can future-proof your life through your forties, fifties and well beyond. Each recipe highlights the specific health benefits of the dish.

Join us for our annual

Easter Egg Hunt

STONEYGATE SCHOOL

Saturday 17th March 10am – 12.30pm (last entry 12 noon) Are you aged between 2 and 7 years old? Bring your family (and wellies) and join us in our lovelygrounds for the Easter Egg Hunt and refreshments. Complete the course to receive an Easter egg and certificate. Well behaved dogs on leads are welcome to join in the fun! For more information contact Sarah or Julia on 0116 259 2282 www.stoneygateschool.co.uk | 6 London Road, Great Glen LE8 9DJ @stoneygateschl @stoneygateschool

Looking for somewhere unique to celebrate your special day? Visit our open day on 14th February 2018, 11am – 3pm

“The Old School House’’ Bassett Street, Wigston, Leicestershire, LE18 4PE, now open for weddings and ceremonies. Wigston Community Centre, one of several former schools built on Bassett Street, will be home to a new ceremony room for South Wigston Registration Office. The appropriately named ‘’Old School House’’ retains its original vintage architecture and has three large windows as a centrepiece. The venue will hold 50 people including the couple and 2 witnesses. Call 0116 305 65 65 today to book your ceremony or for more information visit

celebrateinleicestershire.co.uk R0731 WCR Urban Fox Ad 150(w)x109(h) 03.indd 1

10/01/2018 11:06:19

Spring Program

gildings

of special sales

auctioneers

Entries Invited If you have an item that you would like to have appraised for sale at auction, we would be delighted to provide you with a complimentary auction estimate.

Fine, Antique and Contemporary Jewellery For appraisals contact our jewellery specialist Denise Cowling on: 01858 410414 or email: sales@gildings.co.uk

Tennis design bracelet, forty-four brilliant cut diamonds. Sold for £3,050 including fees. March 2017.

20th Century Decorative Arts For appraisals contact our 20th century decorative arts specialist Will Gilding on 01858 410414 or email: will.gilding@gildings.co.uk

Fine Art and Antiques For appraisals contact our fine art and antiques specialist Mark Gilding on: 01858 410414 or email: mark.gilding@gildings.co.uk A Lane’s pocket globe, London 1819. Sold for £8,260 including fees. March 2017.

An Arts and Crafts bookcase, Ernest Gimson design. Sold for: £17,700 including fees. November 2017.

 GILDINGS.CO.UK

Telephone : 01858 410414 | Email: sales@gildings.co.uk | www.gildings.co.uk Gildings Auctioneers, The Mill, Great Bowden Road, Market Harborough LE16 7DE

We’ve travelled. Been there. Shared rum with the locals and people-watched from tiny litt le cafés. That mountain was near-impossible to climb, but we got to the top for the sunrise. We’ve looked over the edge of the inﬁ nity pool into the valley below; and ﬂoated in a hot air balloon above herds of elephants. We can tell you about it, because we’ve travelled it. From the Maldives to Mexico; South Africa to Sri Lanka, you can talk to someone who has actually been there. The Kuoni Sale is now on. We’re here to share our ideas, so pop into one of our beautiful stores for a down-to-earth chat. Let’s create a holiday together. At Kuoni, our experience makes yours.

Our experience makes yours Kuoni stores | Selected John Lewis stores | 0808 250 0660 | kuoni.co.uk/sale

Sale ends 12th February 2018.

Boden

PEOPLE & PLACES

NEW

HORIZONS Bored of visiting the same old places? Sounds like your holiday needs a break from the routine, says Kirsty France.

There’s a lot to be said for visiting a familiar place. You can settle in and start relaxing straight away. But what if you’ve had enough of the same holidays? If you’re after a change of scenery this year, discover a new destination that will still give you all the things you love.

City Break

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to city breaks in Europe. You could choose from one of the classic locations, like Paris, Barcelona or Amsterdam, but then you’d just have to fight your way through crowds. The authorities in Barcelona have even asked tourists to stay away this year. But if you’d still love a trip to Spain this year, try Seville. They have great food and wonderful art. Best of all it’s easy to get around on foot or on a bike. And if you’re a Game of Thrones fan waiting for the next series you can even visit some of the locations while you’re there.

Beach Retreat

We have some fantastic beaches here in the UK – to get off the beaten track head to the Isle of Wight, Arran or the Gower peninsula. Or, if you prefer guaranteed sunshine, try Playa de las

Galgas in Tenerife. It’s in an area that’s already popular with tourists so it’s easy to get to, but the beach is mainly visited by locals so it isn’t as crowded as some of the bigger beaches. It’s a real hidden gem. If you fancy going further afield, how about New York? Yes, you read that right. Away from Manhattan Island you can choose from Brighton Beach in Brooklyn or Rockaway Beach in Queens. Brighton Beach has great sand and some lovely beachside restaurants. Rockaway is more laid back and popular with surfers. There’s also a classic boardwalk with loads of food to go. Best of all, you can combine a beach holiday with a city break in New York.

Taste Break

If you consider yourself a foodie, then you should definitely add a ‘taste break’ to your travel bucket list. From supper clubs in Berlin to Copenhagen’s artisan hangouts, there is something to literally suit everyone’s taste. For the wine connoisseur looking for a change of scenery, or in need of a budget break, try Georgia. Nestled south of Russia on the shores of the Black Sea,

the people pride themselves on their hospitality and they’ve been making wine for around 8,000 years so they probably know what they’re doing. I tasted some Georgian wine over Christmas and it’s delicious, so give your taste buds a treat.

Adventure Holiday

If you’ve already visited South East Asia and Australia and are looking for a new long haul destination, try Chile or Argentina. Both countries are enormous with terrain ranging from rainforest and waterfalls in the north of Argentina, to mountains and glaciers in the south. You can explore the wilderness and encounter the local wildlife or get involved in adventure sports. Patagonia extends across both countries and you could easily spend your whole holiday there if you felt like it. You can spend your day horse riding, kayaking and trekking on a glacier before heading back to your hotel for a luxurious afternoon tea. Are you heading for new horizons in 2018? If you’d like to share your alternative holiday destinations I’d love to hear about them. Head over to facebook.com/theurbanfoxmediagroup URBAN FOX FEBRUARY 2018 65

Personal style

Oversized jumpers & Ash trainers Most extravagant purchase

My All Saints black coat On my nightstand

‘My Dear, I wanted to tell you’ by Louisa Young

MY WAY

Fun in the sun

Cornish coast in our VW camper

Stacey Barthorpe “I love running my own business and seeing something that just existed in my head, on shop shelves”, says greeting card designer Stacey Barthorpe. I grew up in a small village on the outskirts of Northamptonshire, called Overstone. I had a happy childhood, enjoying the freedom of living in the countryside. We were an active family who enjoyed the outdoors. I attended Moulton Comprehensive but have dyslexia, so found academic subjects a challenge. But I really enjoyed sports and Art & Design. After my GCSEs I studied A-level Photography and Art and completed a diploma in Visual Arts, followed by a year foundation Art course at Nene College. Finally I undertook a BA (Hons) in Three Dimensional Design at De Montfort University. Going against the grain I married my husband Scott at just 21, during my second year of Uni and graduated while pregnant. Six months after my first son Ellis was born I started designing wedding stationery for friends from home. Word of mouth spread and before long I was approaching local stores with my first small collection. A couple of years later, after the birth of my second son Joseph, a shop local to where I live came up for rent and

I decided to go for it, naming it “Icle Star”. It was a card and gift shop, selling designer led product and work from Prince’s Trust designers. After 3 years the shop next door became available and I expanded, opening a coffee shop called “The Nook”. It was really hard work, but extremely rewarding. I met my business partner Jude, a graphic designer, after she began dating my husband’s best friend Pete. We often talked about doing something together. Then a few months after my third child Molly was born Jude rang me and said things were changing at work and suggested we put together a range of cards to take to the Harrogate Home & Gift Show. We called our joint venture “Molly Mae” after my daughter Molly and Jude’s daughter Rosa Mae. We had no idea what to expect from the show, but our original hand drawn designs went down a storm. For the first year the cards were finished and packed in my spare room, but nearly 9 years on we have our own premises on a farm in Walton. And it’s not just us anymore, we have a great team behind us who are and passionate about what they do. We supply into independent gift shops, tea rooms and specialist greeting cards shops all over the country, as well as selling online directly to the public. Our local stockists include Polka Dot in Market Harborough, Gift Box Solutions in Oadby, The Book Shop in Kibworth, Marmalade Meringue in Hinckley, Akiko in

Top of your bucket list

Cantering through the surf Guilty pleasure

Gin!

What you do to relax

Running or walking with my dog Stan Advice to younger self

Wear less while you still can! Wistow and Artifact in Stoneygate. One of our next ambitions is to add a chain group to our customer base, as well as explore the option of licensing our images onto other products, such as homeware and wallpaper. I love running my own business and seeing something that just existed in my head, on shop shelves. But it’s not without it challenges. Learning to switch off can be tricky. It’s hard not to beat yourself up about dedicating enough time to each part of your life - family, work, friends…myself, but I do go to Body Balance once a week and I find this helps me clear my head and breathe a bit. Jude and I are a great partnership but we’ve both had to learn to compromise. Thankfully working through one another’s different viewpoints has often produced some of our best designs and decisions. This has helped build the amazing business and friendship we have today. Discover more about Molly Mae and their latest collections at www.mollymae.co.uk

30% off all kitchen cabinets* Visit our new studio or please contact us to book your free design consultation

Kitchen & Home Design Limited Stoughton Grange, Gartree Road, Leicester LE2 2FB

0116 271 4003 | www.kitchenhomedesign.co.uk | DDDD *Terms & Conditions Apply

Making your property our priority • Estate agency • Residential lettings and management • Investment and development • Survey and valuation

T: 0116 270 5900 F: 0116 274 5732

info@fothergillwyatt.com www.fothergillwyatt.com