Urban Fox - March 2019 Issue

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March 2019

WIN

Ragdale Spa Day Denby Cookware Skandinavisk Candles

Spring It On

EMBRACE THE Reboot & Recharge SEASON

Spring clean your health

LIVING CORAL In Style Uplifting interiors SS19 HOTTEST HAIR TRENDS

DRAMA QUEEN

Keira Knightley Interview

URBAN FOX MARCH 2019 1

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URBAN FOX MARCH 2019 3

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Hello

Longer days and better weather (occasionally) have certainly boosted the mood here at HQ. But if spring has sprung, and you have not, no biggie, as we’re on a mission to revamp, refresh, revive and recharge your life with our Spring-spiration edition.

COVER SHOT:

Refresh your look with SS19’s latest trends.

Whether you vamp it up in Dark Florals, embrace the power of pastel, or stay cool in Sports Luxe, this season’s style is a marathon, not a sprint. We also track the hottest hairstyles sashaying their way down the catwalk. From chic chignons to crazy curls we’ve got the low-down on these easy-to-style looks.

Spring Step Jumper £55, Essence Organic Cotton T-Shirt £25, White Stuff

Interact with us

Looking good. Feel good too, as we Reboot & Recharge mind and body with Rebecca Watts, get Bright & Breezy with lighter lunches for brighter days and declutter our work life with a Career Detox. We’re spring cleaning our friendships too! If the proverbial spring is still missing from your step, Sarah Mettrick reveals what’s to love about the season in Spring it On and Kirsty France revives her senses with a much needed Spring Break.

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

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

If it’s your house and not you in need of an overhaul, revamp tired interiors with the latest colour trends. Uplifting and life-affirming, Living Coral is the hottest colour of the year (well according to the oracle that is the Pantone Colour Institute), but if like us you’re Feeling Blue check out our tips on how to incorporate this versatile shade into your home décor. Finally, we head outside to revitalise the garden with Annie Burn’s horticultural hacks. We’re officially spring ready!

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

URBANFOX

I hope we’ve helped. But until you’re ready to spring into action, feet up, open the pages, sip hot beverage…and relax…

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

11

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

13 46-47

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

HOMES & GARDE NS

Antique Galvanise d Hook Rail, £20, Garden Trading

Global Pattern Soap £7, Sainsbury's HomeDispenser, Menu Towel Ladder, £400, Nest.co.uk Stelton Emma Canister, £34.95, Cloudberr y Living

GILLIAN GATT Sales Consultant 07468 469971 Gillian@theurban-fox.co.uk

Styli Storagseh

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

Aquanova Spark Ottoman, £310, Amara Willow Topped Tray £39.99, The FarthingTable, Beautify Velvet Caddy, £19.99, Domu Brands

Check out our cute and stylis h storage hacks , to keep your bathroom tidy and clutter free.

Baolgi Laundry Basket, £277, Amara

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.

15

Images & Products:

John Lewis

VonHaus Bathroom Cabinet, £69.99, Domu Brands Blakeney 3 Tier Shower Basket, £100, John Lewis

URBAN FOX MARCH

2019 49

8

37

CONTRIBUTORS: Annie Burns, Kirsty France, Sarah Mettrick, Nicol Nightingale-Spear, Rebecca Watts

URBAN FOX MARCH 2019 5

March 15

HEALTH & WELLBEING

19 Spring It On Embrace the season

41

48

21 Reboot & Recharge

Spring clean your health

WINING & DINING 23 Bright & Breezy

Light lunches for bright days 27 Think Pink

Rhubarb, rhubarb, rhubarb

LIFE & WORK 29 Forever Friends?

Breaking up is hard to do 33 Career Detox

Cleanse your career 34 Drama Queen

Keira Knightley interview

HOMES & GARDENS FASHION & BEAUTY 8 Pastel Power 4 ways to wear...

11 Sports Luxe

Get in the zone

37 L iving Coral Uplifting interiors

25

41 Feeling Blue

SS19 coolest colour 46 Stylish Storage

Cute and clutter free 53 O n the Market Prep your property 57 Refresh & Revive Horticultural hacks

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 59 What’s on

Entertaining the whole family 63 Reviews

Awaken your senses

13 Dark Florals

Vamp it up!

PEOPLE & PLACES

15 Say it with…

Mother’s Day gift guide

65 Spring Break

Travel the season

17 In Style

SS19 hottest hair trends

66 My way

Local spotlight on Lynn Kirk

18

22

38

WIN SPA DAY

WIN COOKWARE

WIN CANDLE GIFTSET

at Ragdale Hall

by Denby

from Skandinavisk

URBAN FOX MARCH 2019 7

Jungle Cat Wool Funnel Neck, £119 Allington Snake Western Boot, £169

WHISTLES Longline Sparkle Pleated Skirt, £99

Bibi Crossbody Bag, £129

Camellia Coat, £219, Hobbs

Dahlia Collared Top, £110

Italian Check Portofino Trouser, £140

JIGSAW Shopper Tote Bag, £65

Margot Leather Trainer, £98

FASHION & BEAUTY

MINT VELVET

Pale Blue Star Front Knit, £69

Alex Grey Leather Backpack, £159

Pastel

Harley Grey Suede Slouch Boot, £169

Grey Darby Biker Jean, £79

POWER The perfect piece to take you into the next season and beyond.

Martina Ditsy Printed Dress, £185

Mirna Pointed Ankle Boots, £195

REISS Parker Lock Closure Wallet, £95

Willow Relaxed Shoulder Bag, £225

20% off with code UF319 Baukjen.com *Terms and conditions apply. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. See website for details. Valid until 05/04/2019

Tommie Red Ankle Boot, £139

Khaki Side Striped Sports Pant, £79

Khaki Striped 4-Pocket Jacket, £129

Ivory Sporty Stripe Knit, £69

Sports

LUXE Great style is a marathon, not a sprint. We get in the zone with a winning wardrobe from Mint Velvet.

Red Striped Ottoman Knit, £79

Nevada Indigo Jean, £79

White Heart Embroidered Shirt, £79

Cosima Ash Tote Bag, £59

Allie White Striped Trainer, £89

URBAN FOX MARCH 2019 11

DRESSES • ACCESSORIES • SHOES HANDBAGS • OUTERWEAR

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FASHION & BEAUTY

Vamp up your spring wardrobe with a dark floral frock.

Dark

FLORALS 2

1

3

4

6

5

7

1 Sportmax Code Pentola Dress, £210, House of Fraser 2 Gyan Floral Dress, £345, Joie 3 Floral Ruffle Mini Dress, £199, Karen Millen 4 Floral Meadow Flippy Dress £149, Whistles 5 Freida Floral Shift Dress, £48, Oasis 6 Claudie Pierlot Romilly Dress, £152.50, Selfridges 7 Editor’s Pick: perfect paired with biker boots or trainers Sarah Floral Dress, £175, L.K. Bennett URBAN FOX MARCH 2019 13

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Back away from the straighteners and embrace your natural curls. Use a hydrating gel-oil to control the frizz and time permitting allow to air dry. Wear loose, or secure with a hairband, ribbon or simple bobby pins.

In

BOSS

FASHION & BEAUTY

We track the coolest hairstyles from the spring 2019 catwalks.

Style

NATURAL CURLS BOSS

Soft and glossy, waves are a staple of the new season. Easy to achieve, all you need is five minutes and some straighteners. This technique is particularly useful for those with short and fine hair. For longer hair, braid before going to bed.

A hit on the Chanel catwalk, it’s possible to go half-up and still look like a grown up. Swap your go-to top knot for a half-upmeets-messy-bun hybrid, or for a flirtier Chanel style opt for a quarter-up, making it easier to get a high pony and create more volume.

SOFT WAVES

HALF UP If you're only going to buy one styling product this spring, make it gel. Slicked-back styles featured heavily on the catwalk. Dip a toe with a half-slick style. Simply apply gel from the scalp down toward the ears, then let the rest of your hair fall in natural waves or curls.

Tom Ford Badgley Mischka

ALL UP Chic chignons are catwalk cool for SS19. From wraps, twists and folds, there’s nothing boring about this style. Take a tip from the Tom Ford show, where models wore silky, '70s-inspired headscarves tied around low buns.

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IN! W MUM & ME TIME DAY

Leicester Therapy Centre - Feb16.indd 1

19/01/2016 10:10

at Ragdale Hall Spa

Nestled in the Leicestershire countryside near Melton Mowbray and combining state-of-the-art facilities with Mother and Daughter Break, so you can relax in a luxurious bed the charm of traditional Victorian architecture, Ragdale Hall is perfect for a pampering spa day or evening - and it at the end of a hard day in the spa! For more information visit www.ragdalehall.co.uk or call 01664 433030. Follow Ragdale was awarded the UK’s Best Destination Spa* Hall on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or download the free So what better way to treat your mum this Mother’s Ragdale Hall App for exclusive offers.

Day than with a luxurious spa experience, from just £63, We’re offering one lucky winner and their Mum a “Clarins Mum or present her with a Ragdale Hall voucher to use how & Me Time Day” at Ragdale Hall Spa. she chooses. Or why not join mum on an unforgettable Ragdale Hall Clarins Mum & Me Time Day? Priced from TO ENTER: £282 for two people, you’ll both enjoy a 40-minute Clarins Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number Radiant Skin Facial, use of all Ragdale Hall’s facilities, to competitions@theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘Mum & Me’ in the including the newly opened Rooftop Infinity Pool, subject bar. Closing date for entries is Sunday 31 March 2019.

Thermal Spa, indoor and outdoor pools, gym, exercise Terms & Conditions: The winner will be drawn on or after the closing date. The Editor’s and relaxation classes, a three-course buffet lunch and decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. This prize is non-transferable and no cash alternative is available. The prize is valid Monday - Thursday, subject to availability. Travel take home a Clarins gift worth over £22. Ragdale Hall to and from Ragdale Hall is not included. The prize is valid for persons of 16 years and over. The also offers a range of spa breaks, including the two-night prize must be redeemed before 30th September 2019. *The Good Spa Guide Awards 2017

Joules

HEALTH & WELLBEING

SPRING

IT ON!

It’s in the air. The season of renewal, rebirth and… cute bunnies. This month Sarah Mettrick reveals what’s to love about Spring.

MORE DAYLIGHT

Reep the benefits. Hours more light to get things done and the extra sunshine is a mood booster. Apparently when the sun is up, incidences of mental distress are down. Follow the light...

RENEWED ENERGY

Use it wisely, get spring cleaning!

First declutter, get rid of all that stuff weighing you down so you can start afresh. Then clean, mop, sanitise, vacuum, polish, sweep…get stuck in.

Next open all the windows and ventilate rooms with fresh spring air. You can then smile because you’ve just burnt off a gazillion calories, and finally there’s just one more thing to buff… your halo!

ST PATRICK’S DAY

Grab a Guinness, don your shamrock and get ready to celebrate all things Irish on the 17th March. If dressing up as a mischievous green mythical elf is your bag, you’re in luck!

COLOUR

Snowdrops, Cherry Blossom, Tulips, Daffodils, Bluebells, Crocuses... flowers and bushes adorning gardens, woodlands and hedgerows. Beautiful sights to feed the soul. Seeing flowers

elevates our mood, making us feel more positive and some research suggests that looking at them can even reduce pain. Let nature fix you; ditch the paracetamol and go sit in the garden.

APRIL FOOLS

If someone is getting on your nelly, fear not spring caters for everyone.

You even get a specific day to hack someone off. Revenge is nigh. April 1st - get plotting!

GREEN LEAF VOLATILES

“What the heck”, I hear you say!

I’m actually talking about the wonderful smell of freshly cut grass.

When grass is in distress it releases organic compounds called ‘green leaf volatiles’, emitting that smell we love so much. The scent is actually the lawn trying to save itself from the injury you’ve just inflicted. Feel bad? Yeah me too. Don’t worry, the smell of freshly cut grass apparently relieves stress and makes us happy and relaxed. Oh the irony!

EASTER

With Easter comes chocolate. And if you opt for cocoa laden dark chocolate you will be upping your nutrients, minerals and antioxidants big time. Good for the heart, brain and circulation too. The Easter Bunny,

your new best friend!

MOTHERING SUNDAY

Yay - we are given our very own day!

A time to unwind and be pampered.

We get to watch everyone else around us cook and do the chores… in their very own special way! Totally relaxing… if you are not a control freak. If you are, practice those deep breathing techniques and try to forget the enormous clean-up operation you have to undertake afterwards. Just feel the love!

WARMER WEATHER

At last we can ditch the bulky layers, woolly hats and Ugg boots. Not only a joy to feel the sun’s rays on our rather paled-hued skin but exposing ourselves to that all essential Vitamin D. Spring healing!

BABIES

We’re all suckers for cute vulnerable baby animals, they make us feel warm and happy. And little moments of happiness can bust stress. Some suggest it’s our powerful nurturing instinct spilling over onto other species that fuels the affection.

Either way go ‘aww’ at the Spring lambs, ducklings, chicks, piglets, and bunnies. Yep, just fluffy cuteness on a plate. Well obviously not literally on a plate, well except maybe the lamb…

URBAN FOX MARCH 2019 19

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

Reboot &

RECHARGE Typically, we think of spring cleaning as decluttering our homes, but the new season is the perfect time to refresh your body and mind, says Rebecca Watts from TheStudios40.

Here are some great ideas to spring clean your health regime…

HIIT It!

High intensity interval training or HIIT is a method of cardiovascular training where you alternate between high intensity and low intensity exercise i.e. jogging or walking for 30-90 seconds, then sprinting for 30-90 seconds. HIIT is hard but your heart, lungs and waist line will thank you for it. Start by sprinting and jogging between lampposts, building up your speed on the sprints.

Think Strong

Skinny goals can not only be unrealistic, they can be unhealthy too. Focus instead on becoming stronger through resistance training.

Lifting weights not only makes you

stronger but will tighten up those wobbly bits, boost your confidence, improve your metabolism and overall wellbeing. If you lack confidence or technique, try a personal trainer or join a kettlebell or body pump class.

Plan Ahead

What you eat can make or break your health goals. Planning meals gives you structure, focus and accountability, as well as enabling you to plan around the family and other commitments. It could also save money and the environment too, as planning ahead typically avoids impulse buys and food waste.

If you need a visual motivator there are lots of food diaries and meal planners available.

Home-Made

Store bought lunches can be high in salt, sugar, chemicals and calories.

Kick the processed food habit and start preparing your own. Try making 2-3 days together so it’s less of a hassle or cook extra food in the evening and take in your leftovers to reheat. Making your own food is better for you, and the environment too. Think of all the plastic waste you’ll be saving.

Sit Down

We’re all guilty of eating on the go

but being mindful of what and how we eat can help us make healthier choices, improve our mental wellbeing, as well as eat less. So next time instead of eating on the run, sit down to eat with no distractions.

Think about where the food came from, the nutrients in that meal, what it looks like, what it smells like. Eat slowly. How does it taste?

Walking Lunch

So many of us work through lunch, spending the day barely leaving the chair. But doing so can create issues such as poor posture, muscle imbalances, and low energy use leading to aches, pains and weight gain. The more we move, the more mobile we stay, and the more calories we burn. Schedule a 20-minute lunchtime walk, it’ll not only benefit the body but your mind too.

Switch Off

Sleep is where our body does its magic. It repairs and replenishes our cells and helps regulate our hormones. Without enough or good quality sleep, all our nutrition and fitness efforts are fighting a losing battle. Avoid technology and stimulants before bed to prevent disturbances to your natural body clock. Have a set bedtime and plan to relax by taking a bath, doing yoga or reading. Sweet dreams!

URBAN FOX MARCH 2019 21

WIN!

CAST IRON CASSEROLE DISH

by Denby

You could be the winner of this Denby Natural Canvas Cast Iron 24cm Round Casserole Dish, worth £120.

Brilliant for entertaining, batch cooking or for a larger family, make more than just casseroles with this versatile pot. Use to sauté vegetables, make soups or quick sauces. Denby Cast Iron is energy efficient - it heats up fast and stay hotter for longer, ideal for one pot fluffy rice dishes. Suitable for use on all hobs (gas, electric, ceramic, glass, induction and halogen) and any type of oven, including Aga Stoves and open fires and even barbecues!

With over 200 years of craftmanship, Denby creates beautiful tableware, cookware and serveware. Designed for living, made to last. To view their current ranges visit www.denbypottery.com

TO ENTER:

Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to competitions@theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘Denby’ in the subject bar.

Closing date for entries is Sunday 31 March 2019 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.

WINING & DINING

Breezy BRIGHT &

Embrace the season with these lighter lunches for brighter days.

URBAN FOX MARCH 2019 23

​TOFU WITH BROCCOLI & SOY-MISO DRESSING Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 10 minutes Serves: 2

300g pack Clearspring Organic Tofu 2 salad onions, finely sliced 1 tsp sesame seeds, toasted

Ingredients: 1½ tbsp reduced-salt soy sauce ½ tbsp Japanese rice vinegar ½ tbsp Clearspring Organic Japanese Brown Rice Miso ½ tsp toasted sesame oil ½ tsp maple syrup ½ tsp grated fresh root ginger 1 garlic clove, sliced 2 tbsp vegetable oil 200g tenderstem broccoli spears, thicker stems halved lengthways

1

For the dressing, put the soy sauce, vinegar, miso, sesame oil, maple syrup and ginger in a jar. Screw on the lid and shake well to combine; set aside.

2

Put the garlic and 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a frying pan set over a medium heat.

When the garlic is just golden, add the broccoli and coat in the oil. Add 5 tbsp (75ml) cold water; stir-fry for 5-6 minutes until the water has bubbled off and the broccoli is tender (add more

water and cook for longer if the broccoli spears are thick).

3

Meanwhile, drain the tofu well on kitchen paper; cut into 1cm-thick slices. Tip the broccoli onto a serving plate and top with the tofu slices. Spoon over ½ the dressing, then scatter with the salad onion and sesame seeds.

4

Heat the remaining 1 tbsp oil in a small pan over a high heat until smoking, then pour over to wilt the salad onions slightly. Serve with rice or noodles, if liked.

S​ RI LANKAN-STYLE SWEET & SOUR AUBERGINE Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 20 minutes Serves: 4 Ingredients: 2 large aubergines 2 tbsp vegetable oil ¼ tsp dried chilli flakes ¼ tsp ground black pepper ¼ tsp ground turmeric ¼ tsp salt 1 red onion, finely sliced 2 garlic cloves, finely sliced 2 tomatoes, roughly chopped Handful dried curry leaves 1 tsp Dijon mustard 2 tsp red wine vinegar 1 tsp caster sugar 2 x 250g pouches brown basmati rice

Images and recipes: Waitrose

1

Preheat the grill to 240°C. Trim and cut the aubergines into 0.5cm-thick slices, halving any larger pieces, then arrange on a large foil-lined baking tray (don’t worry if they overlap; they will shrink as they cook). Grill for 5 minutes, then turn over and grill for another 5 minutes.

2

Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan or wok over a medium-high heat. Add the spices and salt, then cook for 1 minute. Add the onion, garlic, tomatoes and curry leaves, then cook, stirring, for another 2-3 minutes.

3

Tip the aubergine into the pan, toss everything together for 2 minutes, then add the mustard, vinegar and sugar. Fry for another 2 minutes until combined. Serve the aubergine with the rice cooked according to pack instructions, plus natural yogurt and chopped coriander, if liked.

WINING & DINING

SPINACH & CARAMELISED ONION FLATBREADS Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 20 minutes Serves: 2 Ingredients: 1½ tbsp vegetable oil 1 onion, halved and finely sliced 450g pack spinach 1 tsp cumin seeds ½ tsp black onion seeds Pinch of dried chilli flakes 2 garlic cloves, finely sliced 2 plain naans 1 tsp tamarind paste 2 tbsp natural yogurt Large handful pomegranate seeds

1

Preheat the oven to 180°C, gas mark 4. Put 1 tbsp oil in a large frying pan over a medium-high heat. Fry the onion with a pinch of salt, stirring regularly, for 10 minutes, until deep golden. Drain on kitchen paper.

2

Meanwhile, put the spinach in a large colander and pour over just-boiled water from the kettle to wilt (you may need to do this in 2 batches). Rinse under the cold tap, then squeeze out as much excess water as possible.

Drain thoroughly on kitchen paper.

3

Add the remaining ½ tbsp oil to the frying pan and toss in the spices and garlic. Fry for 1 minute until fragrant, then add the spinach plus a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring, for 2-3 minutes until any excess water has evaporated.

4

Splash the naans with a little cold water and bake in the oven for 3-4 minutes. Remove and top each with the spinach, onion, tamarind paste, a drizzle of yogurt, and the pomegranate seeds.

URBAN FOX MARCH 2019 25

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Food available throughout the day For more information please call us on:

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

Recipes & Images: Waitrose

WINING & DINING

Think PINK

Rhubarb isn’t just for winter.

Transform a cold-weather pudding into a springtime treat.

RHUBARB & STRAWBERRY CRUMBLE Method: Ingredients: 400g Cooks’ Ingredients Forced Rhubarb, cut into 3cm lengths 400g strawberries, hulled and halved 2 star anise 75g light brown soft sugar Grated zest and juice of 1 large orange For the topping: 150g porridge oats 100g plain flour 100g chilled butter, diced 2 tbsp clear honey 100g light brown soft sugar 50g roasted chopped hazelnuts

Preheat the oven to 180°C, gas mark 4. Place the rhubarb, strawberries, star anise, sugar, orange zest and juice in a large ovenproof dish.

Place the oats, flour and butter in a bowl then, using your fingertips, rub in the butter until it resembles breadcrumbs. Add the honey, sugar and hazelnuts then rub together to form small clumps.

Scatter the oaty crumble over the fruit. Sit the dish on a baking sheet in the oven and cook for 45 minutes until the fruit is tender, bubbling around the edges and the top is crunchy and golden brown.

ROASTED RHUBARB & CUSTARD CRUNCH Ingredients: 400g rhubarb, cut into 3cm lengths 4cm piece root ginger, peeled and thickly sliced 50g golden caster sugar Small knob of butter 2 tbsp orange blossom honey 50g jumbo rolled oats 2 tbsp roughly chopped shelled pistachios 500g custard 110g pack pomegranate seeds Method: Preheat the oven to 200°C, gas mark 6.

Place the rhubarb and ginger in a baking dish and sprinkle with the sugar. Cover with foil and roast for 10 minutes then remove the foil and cook for a further 10 minutes or so until tender and syrupy.

Meanwhile, heat the butter and honey together in a large, non-stick frying pan.

Add the oats and pistachios and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring, until golden brown.

Tip out onto a plate and leave to cool.

Warm the custard according to pack instructions.

Divide the rhubarb between 4 small sundae glasses (discarding the ginger slices) and spoon over the warm custard.

Top with the crunchy oat mixture and a sprinkling of pomegranate seeds.

URBAN FOX MARCH 2019 27

IT’S TIME TO MOVE FORWARD

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Friends?

FOREVER

Whether there’s been a betrayal, conflict or you’re just in different places, navigating the end of any relationship can be difficult. But a change in season is the perfect time to re-evaluate a failing friendship.

Follow our tips on how to break up without all the drama…

1

2

3

4

Evaluate your friendship. Think about what your friend brings to your life. Are they usually a positive force or do you often feel let down and unsupported? If the latter, is it possible to redress the balance?

Don’t assume you’re special. If your friend speaks behind other people’s backs or is unkind and unthoughtful towards them, the chances are that at some point she’ll treat you exactly the same way.

Be honest with her. If you feel your friend has let you down, tell them.

Give her examples of why you feel unsupported or let down and explain how that makes you feel. Try not to sound too accusatory.

Prepare to breakup. Should your friend not appreciate your honesty, you might have to accept the relationship is terminal. Recognise why the friendship failed and know

circles or even work together, you’re bound to bump into each other at some point. Be pleasant and say hello, but excuse yourself to avoid any awkwardness.

what you’re looking for from future friends.

5

6

7

8

Get over your guilt. Don’t let your old friend make you feel bad about your decision to call time on the relationship. Ask yourself, is it because she genuinely misses you, or simply that you’re not doing what she wants?

9

Keep your cool. Don’t get annoyed or upset if a chance encounter does lead to conflict. That’s exactly what she wants. Don’t focus on having the last word (however satisfying), instead count to ten, smile and let her see how unbothered you are.

Keep your distance. Like any relationship breakup, it’s important to create space and give yourself time to mourn.

Do not call, text, or stalk their social media accounts. Although difficult to let go, it’ll only make things harder to heal.

10

Understand the impact of your decision. Letting go of one friend may mean losing others.

Ultimately there are winners and losers in all breakups. Focus on those people that want to remain friends with you.

11

Prepare for chance encounters.

If you move in similar social

Focus on you. Have some time out to take care of yourself. Exercise, eat properly, take up new hobbies and generally do things that make you feel good. It may take a while to feel like you again, especially if you did everything together, but you will.

Make new friends. No matter what sparked the decision to part ways, it's natural for friendships to fizzle out in order to make room for new ones. Don’t dwell on the past.

Let yourself be happy and enjoy making new friends.

URBAN FOX MARCH 2019 29

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Career

Detox Stuck in a rut? Has your dream job become a daily drag? Before you dust of your CV, check out our top tips on how to cleanse your career.

Follow these 6 simple steps to job satisfaction…

RECONNECT

Write down a list of reasons you chose your job or profession. Was it challenging, prestigious, or were you attracted by the hefty salary? Then write another list detailing what you loved about the job when you first started. Was it rewarding, hands on, provided an opportunity to travel etc. This simple exercise will enable you to reconnect with your original feelings and motivations.

DISCOVER

Next try to identify what has changed. If you were previously customer facing but have been promoted into a back-office function, have you inadvertently left the parts of the job you loved behind. Conversely has the company changed - got bigger, diversified, restructured? In which case it might be a case of “It’s not me, it’s you”. If you still enjoy your work but not the company and/or boss it might be time to consider moving on.

DELEGATE

Isolate the elements of your job that you still love doing. Even when the initial spark has gone, there’s usually still something. Then see if you can find a way to do more of what you like doing and less of what you don’t.

For example, could you delegate to another team member or speak to your manager about reallocating the work. You may loathe spreadsheets but a colleague might be happy to take on some additional number crunching, if you cover their presentation commitments.

MOTIVATE

Ask yourself whether you’re feeling frustrated and demoralised not because you dislike your job but because you’ve simply lost direction.

Find out if your organisation has a mentoring scheme or failing that identify someone you can talk to informally about your career path.

They don’t even have to be in your department. It can help you regain perspective, reconnect with your job or uncover new opportunities within your existing company.

EVALUATE

Be honest with yourself. Do you really hate your job or are you simply burnt out from working too many hours? If it’s the latter, speak with your boss about redressing the balance. If you’ve been covering more than your own job, then it might be time for some temp staff.

Speak up! If that’s not an option,

then take a ‘make or break’ holiday (at least 2 weeks) and see how you feel when you come back.

Find out if your organisation has a mentoring scheme or failing that identify someone you can talk to informally about your career path.

PLAN

If you do decide to move on, remember to plan your exit strategy. Brush up on your skills, refresh your CV and update your LinkedIn profile. You could even enquire as to whether there are any redundancy opportunities and leave with a golden handshake. We all have financial commitments, so although flouncing out the door might sound liberating (actually I’ve done it and it is), it’s worth remembering that it’s easier to find a job when you’re in one.

Good luck!

URBAN FOX MARCH 2019 33

Queen DRAMA

She’s made her mark in recent years as a passionate devotee of equal rights, and Keira Knightley’s latest foray into historical drama makes the most of her natural propensity for the portrayal of strong women from days of yore.

LIFE & WORK

Given her almost constant status on the silver screen over the past fifteen-plus years, it’s very easy to forget that Keira Knightley, at just 33, is still an actress with many more years in the industry ahead of her.

The Teddington-born star has put her name to a myriad of cinematic projects since her breakthrough turn in sporty rom-com Bend It Like Beckham, including seasonal favourites (Love Actually), high octane action flicks (Jack Ryan, Domino) and box-office busting film franchises (Pirates of the Caribbean).

Fittingly, however, for an avid student of history, Knightley has an avowed preference for period films. Whether it's The Imitation Game, Anna Karenina, A Dangerous Method or this year's Colette, Knightley revels in recreating characters from the past. It follows then that her latest project, The Aftermath, a romantic drama set in post-WWII Germany, is no different.

"I love period films, I always have, and although I've gone through periods where I felt guilty about playing in too many of those stories, now I embrace them. There's something about the escapism that makes me want to do period drama and I often relate to those characters much more strongly."

And while most women in Hollywood are currently enjoying a spate of available roles that tap into the societal demand for three-dimensional, modern women, Knightley finds that her own path has been offering her ample opportunities of this kind for some time already.

“Sometimes those kinds of movies have been the only ones that offered me the chance to play strong, independent women,” she explains. “I can't tell you how many scripts I've read where women are subjected to violence or portrayed

as the passive girlfriend or wife.

At least the period films I've done have enabled me to tell stories about some very formidable and fascinating women.

With all the discussion about feminism and gender politics going on now it's very important that young women get to see stories about women and are able to identify with female heroes. Men have always been inspired by so many different male heroes in film and I think it can make a big difference if young women get to see stories about extraordinary women, too.”

Acting is my way of getting to indulge in being a much bolder and fearless kind of person That’s not to say that Knightley’s penchant for period film represents an easy route through the audition process to sure-fire box-office success.

“I love a good challenge!” she beams.

“If I don't get out of my so-called ‘comfort zone’, if a role doesn't scare me in some way, I get bored. But I love doing great dramatic films and I've often been drawn to darker characters.

Maybe that's why doing comedies isn’t really me. The first time you say a joke everyone laughs on the set. Then you repeat the line in the next few takes, and nobody laughs, so you haven't the faintest idea whether you're doing a good job or not!"

There is some comfort to be taken in these more strait-laced portrayals, however. Whether it be the gender nonconformist and polyamorous French author Colette, or the uber-luxurious Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel, Knightley had lent her talents to resurrecting a plethora of fierce and fabulous women,

even if she tends to be much more introverted than they are.

“I think that's why I'm drawn to playing women who enjoy being the centre of attention because I'm the exact opposite in social situations,” she muses. “Acting is my way of getting to indulge in being a much bolder and fearless kind of person than I am in real life although sometimes I suppose those personality traits do rub off on you.

But it never lasts, I'm sad to say!”

Social introversion notwithstanding, Knightley has been vocal of late on a range of issues, from the effects of fame on her mental health – including a diagnosis of PTSD at 22 years old – to an advocation of equal paternity leave and greater help for easing the financial burdens of parents in the UK. For her own part, Knightley is determined to keep her career going alongside her role at home to mother of Edie, now four, with husband James Righton.

“I grew up the daughter of a working mother, and I know how important it was to me and my sense of self to see my mum working,” she says.

“I want my daughter to see that I’m doing something that I love. I want her to know that whatever field she chooses, she can have a kid and she can still pursue a career.”

As to Knightley’s own youthful aspirations, it was almost destiny that she would someday become a vocal supporter of equal opportunity wherever she ended up.

“I dreamed of a sports career but there are very few opportunities for girls except maybe for tennis, which I didn't like,” she reminisces. “But I love football, of course, and rugby.

I still remember taking part of an oratory competition where I spoke about sexism in sport. It was my first feminist speech. But I finished third, which still annoys me!”

URBAN FOX MARCH 2019 35

HOMES & GARDENS

1

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Loaf

Pantone colour of the year, Living Coral will bring an uplifting and life-affirming vibe to your home.

CORAL

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7

8 URBAN FOX MARCH 2019 37

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URBAN FOX MARCH 2019 39

CREATING BEAUTIFUL SPACES

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Feeling

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Versatile, unique and perfect in any room. We’re feeling blue this spring.

Palette

Gather inspiration for your colour palette from the everyday things around you – sky, picture, coffee mug; then use as the basis for selecting your base fabrics, wallcoverings and paints. Produce a mood board to convey your concept.

Wallcoverings

Using blue on your walls, can instil a sense of calm, and nurture an imaginative environment. Break up the wall colour with white detailing or add artwork for dramatic effect.

Images of the ocean, fauna and flora will produce a nature inspired look.

Furniture

Picking out a sofa or statement armchair is a great way to anchor a new colour scheme. Or if you’re unsure opt for lower ticket items such as kitchen chairs. Layering the depth of colour from light to dark creates an eye-catching contrast. Blue is classic, so you really can’t go wrong.

Bedding

Combine soft and vibrant blue shades in your bedroom, or alternatively contrast with soft rose or rich russet tones.

In terms of bedding, avoid anything too masculine.

Ditch the dark denim, for crisp white sheets with a luxe lambswool throw.

Accessories

Accessories are the easiest and cheapest way to add a wow factor.

A few cushions here, a collection of vases there, and boom. Use a range of tones and contrasting textures to create decorative features and add interest.

URBAN FOX MARCH 2019 41

Lifestyle, Homeware, Vintage

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ON THE

Market Planning to take advantage of the spring sales season? Nicol Nightingale-Spear from Fothergill Wyatt, explains how to prepare your property for market.

Timing

In the winter months it’s often too cold and dark for people to want to house hunt and putting your house on the market when it’s wet and gloomy can be a hard sell. Conversely, devoting weekends to looking for a new home during the hot summer months also lacks appeal. Think of all the family days and BBQs you’ll miss out on while you stay home tidying ready for the next perspective buyer. But the arrival of spring, triggers action among buyers. Thoughts of resizing, finding a bigger, brighter home or a property that offers more outdoor space, spurs them on. So, if you’re looking to sell your home, spring is the perfect time to get your property on the market.

Preparation

You don’t need to go overboard redecorating from top to bottom, or splash out on a new bathroom, kitchen or carpets, but do consider how you can display your home in the best possible

light. Then declutter, depersonalise, refresh and repair where required. If you need a second opinion on what needs your attention, ask a friend whose views you value, or hire a professional decluttering or home staging consultant to advise you.

Draw out your property’s key features. Original period décor such as fireplaces, radiators cornices and window shutters, as well as wood burning stoves, range cookers and bifold doors are all strong selling points and will set your house apart from the competition.

Support

Next choose an estate agent.

Look for one who holds relevant qualifications and is a member of a professional body such as RICS, NAEA Propertymark or ARLA Propertymark.

Ask friends and family if they can make recommendations, look at websites and advertisements and decide which ones appeal to you.

Research if they’re selling similar properties to your own and if they’re on at least one property portal – On the Market, Right Move, etc. Shortlist 2-3 agents and if you can, pop in to make the valuation appointment.

How they deal with you – welcoming, professional, helpful - will give you a good indication if they’re right for you.

When they visit your home ask lots of questions including how they will market your property and if they already have potential buyers that may be interested in your home. Don’t be tempted to just choose the agent that values your property at the highest price, they could be overvaluing to get the business.

Instead opt for the agent who can justify their valuation with comparable properties and their sold prices.

Price

If you’re looking for a quick sale be as competitively priced as possible. There’s no point following the price of the house down the street which is £15,000 more than yours, if it’s been on the market for 6 months. Many buyers will use property portals so it’s important you know how these work. Don’t price your property so it gets lost in the middle of a price bracket, as most buyers will search by either lowest price or highest price and can overlook mid-range properties. It’s also worth trying “offers over” or “offers in the region of” rather than quoting a fixed price. Pricing your property at “offers over £325,000” rather than £350,000, if you’re hoping to achieve £335,000, will ensure you reach a wider range of potential purchases, as it will capture anyone who is looking up to £325,000 maximum, as well as those looking up to £350,000.

URBAN FOX MARCH 2019 53

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URBAN FOX MARCH 2019 55

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HOMES & GARDENS

Refresh & REVIVE Revive your garden this spring with these horticultural hacks from Annie Burns, at Welland Vale Garden Inspirations.

1 2 3 4 5

Remove any weeds in borders paths and driveways before they become established.

Cut back dead stems on perennials right to the base to encourage new growth.

shrubs which flower in late Prune summer - not spring as you’ll be cutting off this year’s flowers.

any damaged or weak growth Tidy and lightly fork over borders.

colour with containers of Inject spring flowering bulbs - daffodils, primroses & cowslips.

6 7 8 9 10 11 12

top 10cm of compost Remove in containers, loosen the rest and refill with fresh compost.

a little slow-release Add fertiliser to the compost to encourage healthy new growth.

your containers regularly Check and water as required. the outside of the Wipe containers to keep them looking fabulous. shrubs, roses and fruit Plant trees. Just ensure the soil

isn’t waterlogged or frosted.

Ask a specialist at a garden centre for help on choosing and caring for garden plants.

up patios and get Clean rid of algae. Organic

13 14

treatments won’t harm surrounding plants.

the lawn a first trim.

Give Raise the blades for the first couple of cuts.

off any moss to Rake help young growth and repair bare patches.

15

wooden garden Give furniture, sheds and fences a fresh look with a coat of colour.

16 17

worn furniture with Replace the latest trends. A good excuse to go shopping!

off the BBQ and Dust be prepared for when the sun finally makes an appearance.

Garden refreshed. You’re ready to make the most of the coming season.

URBAN FOX MARCH 2019 57

2019 SEASON

Due to overwhelming demand from our sell-out audiences in 2018, we are delighted to announce the return of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s sparkling musical which brings to life the Biblical story of Joseph, his eleven brothers and the coat of many colours!

“SPECTACULAR IN EVERY DIMENSION – MUSICAL THEATRE AT ITS FUNNIEST AND BEST”

We are ‘over the moon’ to announce that Kilworth House Theatre will be presenting the first new and exciting production of ‘CATS’ since the original production in 1981!

A magical musical like no other!

BOOK MEOW!

TICKETS £34 - £44 BOX OFFICE 01858 881939 Opening hours: Mon - Fri, 10am - 4pm OR BOOK ONLINE AT www.kilworthhousetheatre.co.uk

Kilworth House Theatre Kilworth House Hotel @KHTheatre @KilworthHouse

KILWORTH HOUSE HOTEL & THEATRE LUTTERWORTH ROAD NORTH KILWORTH LEICESTERSHIRE LE17 6JE

Young Artists’ Recital Series Winners of BBC Young Musician at Uppingham Parish Church

Sheku Kanneh-Mason ‘Cello Isata Kanneh-Mason Piano Wednesday 15 May, 7.30pm BBC Young Musician of the Year 2016 Music by Beethoven, Lutosławski, Debussy, Fauré and Mendelssohn

Martin James Bartlett Piano Wednesday 12 June, 7.30pm BBC Young Musician of the Year 2014 Music by Bach, Mozart, Liszt, Schumann, Wagner and Prokofiev

Laura van der Heijden ‘Cello Jâms Coleman Piano Booking 1 concert: £20, Concessions £15, 18 and Under £10 3 concerts: £48, Concessions £36, 18 and Under £24 www.ticketsource.co.uk/uppinghamschool 01572 820820 boxoffice@uppingham.co.uk

Thursday 27 June, 7.30pm BBC Young Musician of the Year 2012 Music by Schnittke, Beethoven, Adès and Franck

Alistair Muir

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

WHAT’S ON

Everybody's Talking About Jamie, 20 Mar, Cinema De Lux

MARCH 2019

The Girl on the Train Mon 4 - Sat 9 Mar Curve Theatre Tickets from £10 curveonline.co.uk

Rachel Watson longs for a different life.

Her only escape is the perfect couple she watches through the train window every day, happy and in love. Or so it appears. When Rachel learns that the woman she’s been secretly watching has suddenly disappeared, she finds herself as a witness and even a suspect in a thrilling mystery in which she will face bigger revelations than she could ever have anticipated. Adapted from Paula Hawkins’ novel and starring Samantha Womack and Oliver Farnworth, this gripping new play will keep you guessing until the final moment.

The Producers

Tue 5 - Sat 9 Mar Loughborough Town Hall Tickets from £16 loughboroughtownhall.co.uk Hilarious, glitzy and politicallyincorrect, The Producers is the mad-cap Mel Brooks musical that took Broadway and the West End by storm. It’s the story of Max Bialystock, a luckless Broadway producer who hatches a crazy scam with Leo Bloom, his neurotic accountant: mount the worst ever show and scarper with the funds when it flops. Cue a high-kicking Swedish secretary, goose-stepping chorus boys, a stampede of sex-mad grannies, and a cross-dressing theatre director. What can possibly go wrong?

Quite a lot as it happens…

Manuel Harlan

The Girl on the Train, 4 - 9 Mar, Curve

The Room at the Top of the House, 14 Mar, Stamford Arts

Animal Farm

Fri 8 - Sat 9 Mar Uppingham Theatre Tickets £8.50 uppinghamtheatre.co.uk Uppingham School’s Lower School Drama Society presents this play based on the 1945 allegorical novel by George Orwell. Animals play the roles of the Bolshevik revolutionaries and overthrow and oust the human owners of the farm, setting it up as a collective farm in which, all animals (at least at first) are equal. But class and status differences soon emerge between the different species. The play depicts how a society’s ideologies can be manipulated and twisted by those in positions of social and political power; a definite must see!

URBAN FOX MARCH 2019 59

An Evening with The Hairy Bikers Wed 27 Mar De Montfort Hall Tickets from £21 demontforthall.co.uk

Dinosaur World Live, 29 - 31 Mar, Haymarket

Rebellious Sisterhood Sat 9 Mar Market Harborough Theatre Tickets from £8 harboroughtheatre.com

Mrs. Emmeline Pankhurst is not a well woman. Recently released from prison, her hunger strike has left her weak and debilitated. 1913 has not been an easy year. Family arguments threaten scandal. Financially embarrassed and living out of a suitcase, she is terrified at the prospect of being returned to prison. The only sanctuary is with her friend, the composer, Ethel Smyth. But Ethel’s love for Emmeline is about to be challenged by the arrival of young firebrand, Grace Roe, fresh from turning East Anglia into a hotbed of Suffragette protest. This exciting play takes a rare glimpse behind the scenes at the private lives and the personal cost paid by the leaders of the Suffragettes.

The Sleeping Beauty Sun 10 Mar Phoenix Arts Tickets from £14 phoenix.org.uk

The Princess Aurora falls under the curse of the evil fairy Carabosse on her sixteenth birthday, falling into a deep slumber for one hundred years.

Only the kiss of a prince can break the spell. A resplendent fairy tale ballet performed by the Bolshoi, The Sleeping Beauty features scores of magical characters including fairies, Little Red Riding Hood, Puss in Boots, and a beautiful young Princess Aurora performed by the extraordinary talent Olga Smirnova. This is classical ballet at its finest. Recorded performance.

The Room at the Top of the House Thu 14 Mar Stamford Arts Centre Tickets from £5 stamfordartscentre.com

Josh finds the outside world a fascinating and frightening place. At a time when he is most vulnerable, a room of forgotten things quickly becomes the perfect place for him to escape reality.

His family make a desperate attempt to help him realise there is more to life than photos on a shelf and postcards under the door. This is an honest and uplifting show about fear and the impact our decisions have on those we care about, told through mesmerising movement, poetic text and visual inventiveness.

Everybody's Talking About Jamie Wed 20 Mar Cinema De Lux Tickets from £11.95 showcasecinemas.co.uk

Inspired by a true story, Everybody's Talking About Jamie is the awardwinning five-star hit musical for today.

Jamie New is sixteen and lives on a council estate in Sheffield. Jamie doesn't quite fit in. Jamie is terrified about the future. He is going to be a sensation.

Supported by his brilliant loving mum and surrounded by his friends, Jamie overcomes prejudice, beats the bullies and steps out of the darkness, into the spotlight. Nominated for 5 Olivier Awards, Everybody's Talking About Jamie will be broadcast live from the Apollo Theatre in London's Shaftesbury Avenue to cinemas nationwide.

National treasures Si King and Dave Myers, aka The Hairy Bikers have announced a huge nationwide tour for 2019. Big hearted, down-to-earth cooks with a love of good food, Si and Dave have been cooking together for more than 20 years.

They have created haute cuisine dishes with Michelin-starred chefs and travelled the world in the pursuit of great food.

They've also explored the length and breadth of the British Isles to discover brand new recipes and create their own fresh takes on cooking classics. With their irresistible enthusiasm, An Evening with The Hairy Bikers will be an epic night of cooking and conversation.

Dinosaur World Live Fri 29 - Sun 31 Mar Haymarket Theatre Tickets £14 haytheatre.com

Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World Live in this roarsome interactive show for all the family. Grab your compass and join an intrepid explorer across unchartered territories to discover a pre-historic world of astonishing and remarkably life-like dinosaurs. Meet a host of impressive creatures, including every child’s favourite Tyrannosaurus Rex, a Triceratops, Giraffatitan, Microraptor and Segnosaurus!

A special meet and greet after the show offers brave explorers the chance to make a new dinosaur friend. Don’t miss this entertaining and mind-expanding Jurassic adventure, live on stage.

Rebellious Sisterhood, 9 Mar, Market Harborough Theatre

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 URBAN FOX MARCH 2019 61

AUC TION OF

gildings auctioneers

20th CENTURY DECORATIVE ARTS AND DESIGN Tuesday 14th May

Illustrated A set of three silver candlestands

by Graham Watling of Lacock, 1980. £300-£500 plus buyers premium

Catalogue online from 1st May Viewing times Saturday 11th May, 9am – 12noon Monday 13th May, 9am – 4pm Tuesday 14th May, 9am-10am

Contact Will Gilding 01858 410414 will.gilding@gildings.co.uk

There is always more to discover at Gildings Auctions Telephone : 01858 410414 | Email: sales@gildings.co.uk | www.gildings.co.uk Gildings Auctioneers, The Mill, Great Bowden Road, Market Harborough LE16 7DE

 GILDINGS.CO.UK

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Book

REVIEW Awaken your senses

Bake the Seasons

by Marcella DiLonardo Rediscover the simple pleasures of baking with a collection of comforting sweet and savoury recipes that celebrates seasonal flavours. These homely favourites are often modern twists on familiar classics and will quickly become tried and tested dishes you return to again and again. So, whether you need a simple, comforting dinner idea or a lazy weekend breakfast for two, this collection of delicious, rustic recipes will suit your every day and every season.

Lightly

by Francine Jay Do you ever feel like everything is weighing you down? Make 'lightly' your new mantra and transform your life. You will learn to lighten your stuff, spirit, stress and step. A concise and coherent philosophy of life, Lightly gives you all the techniques to start small and go slowly, while working your way up to bigger challenges. A powerful conduit for self-reflection, it ensures that you end up with things and a frame of mind that tell the story of the life you want to live.

Living Decor

by Maria Colletti There's more to living with plants than simply bringing home a houseplant.

Living Decor shows you how to artfully integrate greenery into your space.

Authored by Maria Colletti, this easy read book, brings fun to creating your own arrangements with moss, succulents, air plants, and other favourite indoor greenery. You'll find endless ideas for botanical styling, and remarkable interior design that celebrates everything green.

The Long Spring

by Laurence Rose In February 2016 Laurence Rose crossed the Mediterranean from North Africa and set off on a series of journeys northwards towards the Arctic coast of Norway, all the while keeping pace with the arrival of spring. Exploring Europe's remarkable heritage of exceptional places and the wildlife, traditions and people associated with them, The Long Spring evokes the landscapes, sounds and colours of the continent at its most vibrant.

Energize

by Jo Salter If life in the 21st century is leaving you drained, Energize is a positive and practical guide to help you recharge your batteries and get that spring back in your step. Packed full of ideas and exercises, tips and techniques, you will develop invigorating lifestyle choices that are suited to you. Motivational, compassionate and full of sound advice, Energize will provide you with the energy-boosting strategy and the new, balanced lifestyle that works for you.

URBAN FOX MARCH 2019 63

Images: Boden

PEOPLE & PLACES

Spring BREAK

Ready to come out of hibernation? Good news!

Spring, is the perfect time to travel, says Kirsty France.

The sun is finally making an appearance, so this March try a fabulous new adventure and put a spring in your step.

In for the long haul

If you’ve ever fancied experiencing spring in another culture, head to Japan. Cherry blossom season might only last for around three weeks but it’s a time of celebration and feasting while it lasts. ‘Hanami’ (or looking at flowers) becomes the national pastime and is accompanied by cherry blossom picnics under the trees. It’s a celebration of the

fleeting nature of life so if you’ve ever wanted to get into mindfulness this could be a great way to start.

On the other hand, if you fancy a real party head west. Mardi Gras in New Orleans is on my bucket list. Believe it or not, it’s a family event so don’t go mad. The locals definitely indulge in a drink or six, but they pace themselves well!

European classics

Paris in the springtime is a proper cliché but it’s absolutely worth your time. You can stroll around the city enjoying the sights and it’s warm enough to sit outside the cafes to people watch when you need a break. Invest in a trench coat for a touch of Parisian chic.

If you’d prefer somewhere slightly warmer, head south to the Italian lakes. Lake Como and Lake Garda are the largest and most frequently visited. If you enjoy being on the water, it’s the perfect place to visit as many of the most popular sights are only accessible by boat. You can explore art galleries, shops or just take a stroll through the flowers then head back to your hotel to enjoy a bottle of local wine.

Close to home

You can still enjoy a lakeside experience even if you’d rather stay in the UK. Spring brings bluebells, so a simple walk in the forest can be a real treat for your eyes. Visit Urquhart Bay near Loch Ness and you can see bluebells growing around the ruins of a 16th century castle. Or head to Grizedale Forest in the Lake District where you can see bluebells plus occupy the kids with a Zog themed trail. Treat yourself to a well deserved drink after all your exertions.

If you’re not feeling the call of the wild just yet, you can still get away with a city break. Climb the Monument or St Paul’s cathedral in London and you’ll be able to see for miles (try doing that in November). Of course, you’re also spoilt for choice if you just fancy a walk in the park. Or hire a bike if you want to pick up speed. Hampstead, Holland and Hyde are just a few to get you started.

Still not inspired? Don’t worry. From tulips in Amsterdam to skiing in southern Austria, in spring you can find somewhere amazing to visit almost anywhere in the world.

Happy travels!

URBAN FOX MARCH 2019 65

Fav for fashion

Jigsaw, Mint Velvet & Whistles Best for beauty

MY WAY

Clarins Beauty Flash Balm Home style

John Lewis – timeless classics, modern designs

Lynn Kirk

On my nightstand

“The benefits reach so much further than having a tidy home”, says KonMari Consultant Lynn Kirk.

I was born and raised in Nottingham with my mum, dad and older sister, Karen. I had a happy childhood and some of my fondest memories are of our family holidays at the beautiful north Norfolk coast.

I attended Top Valley secondary school in Nottingham. I loved learning and worked hard. I realised I was creative and analytical from an early age so when it came to choosing A’ levels, English, Psychology and Business were the perfect combination for me.

After school I enrolled on an English and Communications degree at Huddersfield University. There I had the opportunity to study a wide spectrum of creative and media related subjects and subsequently decided to seek a career in media or marketing.

Following university, I was thrilled to be offered a place on the Boots Graduate Scheme in Marketing and enjoyed a fabulous couple of years learning about retail marketing and product development. During my 10 years there I managed product categories in Healthcare, Baby and Christmas Gift and worked on exciting marketing initiatives including the Advantage Card trial and the launch of Boots.com.

After having my first daughter, I moved to work closer to home, as Data Manager at Rawlins Academy in Quorn. I thoroughly enjoyed being able to use my analytical

and creative problem-solving skills. I loved the buzz of a school environment and stayed for 10 years, progressing to become Assistant Principal. However, having 2 small children and a husband who worked away a lot, I decided to look for something that fitted better around my family life.

In 2016, a friend bought me a book, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying

by Marie Kondo. The principles of the ‘KonMari method’ are that you commit to tidying, and then tidy by category rather than room. The method also focuses on what to keep, as opposed to what to discard, based on what sparks joy or plays a positive role in your life.

As a busy working mum, overwhelmed with stuff, I was keen to try anything that promised to “banish clutter for ever”!

The results were truly life-changing. I loved living with less, life was easier, less stressful and everyone felt happier.

My experience inspired me to want to help others, so six weeks later I flew to New York to train with Marie Kondo and her team to become a certified consultant. Once home I set up my business, Happily Sorted, and by January 2018 was working with clients keen to adopt a more simple, joyful life. The benefits reach so much further than having a tidy home and it’s a privilege to support them on every step of their journey. For my part, my home is calmer and happier than ever before, and I

‘Ikigai’ by Hector Garcia Fav food

Breakfast - granola, yoghurt & fruit Instant relaxation

Essential oils and chill-out music Advice to young self

Very little is needed to make a happy life Your spring-spiration

Our family trip to Cornwall can focus on my family without worrying about tidying my house! The average client session fits within the school day so I can enjoy more precious time with my children.

Launching your own business can be daunting. You often need to acquire skills in areas you’re unfamiliar with and life can be a little lonely on the days you’re not working with clients. I absolutely love business networking and this has been a gift for me in developing my business. Meeting like-minded people to share ideas and skills and make new connections who encourage you to drive your business forward.

What’s next? I’ll be bringing my skills to the workplace too. This year I’m excited to be collaborating with other businesses to apply the KonMari principles to tidying and sparking joy in their places of work.

For more details visit www.happilysorted.co.uk or contact lynn@happilysorted.co.uk

URBAN FOX MARCH 2019 67

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