Urban Fox - May 2019 Issue

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May 2019

WIN

Mint Velvet Bag Emma Bridgewater Earthenware

THE SUIT SPOT

Forest Therapy GOING GREEN

Short & Sweet

Twin Break

SURVIVING EAST MEETS HOLLYWOOD WEST Anne Hathaway Interview

What Makes You Beautiful?

INSIDE AND OUT

URBAN FOX MAY 2019 1

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URBAN FOX MAY 2019 3

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River Cardi, £42.50 & Palm Leaf Jersey Tee, £37.50, White Stuff

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URBANFOX

Life is a balancing act – a constant juggling between work, home, money, health, and relationships. But maintaining a harmonious life isn’t just crucial for our health, happiness, and wellbeing but it’s also essential for boosting productivity, managing stress, and unleashing our true potential. So, this month we put the balance back into your life, with our beautifully balanced edition.

Fashion first, make light work of it with a classic capsule wardrobe. 1 shop, 10 pieces and a 60-minute lunch break, is all that it’ll take to transport you from Leicester to Lisbon and back again with our Home & Away collection. We also fall in line with spring’s statement stripes; blending bright print, with plain separates, for a bold but balanced look. Feeling braver? Ditch the boring shift dress for boardroom shorts, as SS19’s sassiest trend hits The Suit Spot.

We Keep Calm and carry on with a road test of the latest soothing, smoothing, skincare serums. And whether you think beauty is skin deep or simply in the eye of the beholder, Sarah Mettrick is on hand to reveal how real beauty comes from the inside out. We’ve also got a Gut Feeling that you’ll love Rebecca Watt’s tips on improving your stomach health. Did you know that trillions of bacteria and other organisms live in our digestive systems? Gulp! But if your tummy turmoil is the symptom and not the cause, then take a break from busy with our guide to The Good Life.

On the home front we go off grid with a little Forest Therapy. With time among the trees thought to help you relax and refuel, green is the go-to colour of the season.

Just add plants. But no décor can beat the great outdoors, and Annie Burns is back with her horticultural hacks on how to create a harmonious haven in your own garden.

Think water, wildlife and yes, weeding.

We’d love to hear how you’re bringing balance to your life. Head over to Facebook and #JointheConversation.

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

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

46-47

Sweet D

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

REAMS

HOMES & GARDE NS

Stoneglow Ylang Ylang & Amber Candle, £20, Amara

Ol' Smoky Glass Table Lamp, £75, Loaf

Create a sooth ing sense of order and peac e in the bedroom with a balance of warm pink and cool blue tones.

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

Fresco Cushion, £40, John Lewis

Bloomingville Sola Tray Table, £109, Hurn & Hurn

Design Project No.019 from £65, John Lewis Throw,

Peonies in Vintage Floral Pot, £125, John Lewis Ciao Bed, £945, Loaf

KATIE TURNBULL Designer katie@theurban-fox.co.uk Velvet Cirque Chair, £915, Out There Interiors

Jones Goodnigh t Alarm Clock, £16, John Lewis Images & Products:

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.

John Lewis

Pembury Printed Ombre Rug, £250, John Lewis

URBAN FOX MAY

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39

2019 45

19

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

URBAN FOX MAY 2019 5

May 65

HEALTH & WELLBEING 21 What Makes You Beautiful Inside and out

43

48

23 Gut Feeling

Keep yours happy

WINING & DINING 25 Feeling Fruity

Sweet & savoury 29 Spice is Right

Balancing flavours

LIFE & WORK 31 The Good Life

Take a break from busy 34 Surviving Hollywood

Anne Hathaway Interview 37 Time for School

Fail to plan...

8 Earn your Stripes 4 ways to wear...

11 The Suit Spot

Short and sweet

46 Sweet Dreams

Cool, calm & collected 51 H ome Improvements The long game

HOMES & GARDENS FASHION & BEAUTY

43 Balancing Act

It's as easy as P, P, P

57 Garden Retreat Natural way to wellbeing

39 F orest Therapy Going Green

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

29

59 What’s On

Entertaining the whole family 63 Reviews

Restore, refresh, regenerate

13 Home & Away

Capsule Living

PEOPLE & PLACES

17 Long & Short of It

Rapunzel, Rapunzel...

65 Twin Break

East meets west

19 Keep Calm

Soothing skincare serums

66 My Way

Local spotlight on Shirley Yanez

12 WIN LEATHER BAG

by Mint Velvet

24 WIN EARTHENWARE

by Emma Bridgewater

40 WIN DECORATIVE

BOTTLES by Nkuku

URBAN FOX MAY 2019 7

Crew Neck Knit Jumper, £98

Melody Loafers, £98

BODEN

Lingfield Shoulder Bag, £180

Earn Your

STRIPES

Delia Red Suede Buckle Mules, £225

Fall in line with spring’s statement stripes. Pair with block colour separates to balance the look.

Bow Red Silk Cotton Cardigan, £125

L.K. BENNETT Ella Blue Suede Clutch, £175

FASHION & BEAUTY

Suede Trucker Jacket, £290

JIGSAW Modal Lace Vest, £29

Lilia Leather Twist Slider, £75

Stripe Midi Wrap Skirt, £59.50, Oliver Bonas

Cest La Vie Sweatshirt, £79

WHISTLES Aith Three Strap Trainer, £129

Rose Suede Crop Jacket, £295

URBAN FOX MAY 2019 9

20% off with code UF519

Baukjen.com *Terms and conditions apply. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. See website for details. Valid until 03/06/2019

FASHION & BEAUTY Casasola Shorts & Blazer, £445/£925, Selfridges

Willow Shorts & Blazer, £125/£265, Reiss

Floret Pointed Court Shoes, £195, L.K.Bennett

Moxie Heel Sandal, £90, Dune London

T I U S E TH

SPOT The perfect combination of style and sass, this season’s short suits hit the mark.

Ivory Striped Shorts & Blazer, £69/£129, Mint Velvet

Marty Knot Front Sandal, £139, Mint Velvet

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N I W

CLAIRE BAG from Mint Velvet

You could be the lucky winner of this Claire Camel Leather Zip Bag by Mint Velvet, as featured in this month’s ‘Home & Away’ article.

Crafted from smooth camel leather in a rounded profile, this bag has expandable suede sides for an extra-roomy interior. It’s detailed with silver zips and hardware, and has two different detachable straps so you can easily wear it cross-body or over the shoulder depending on the day. Use the internal pockets to keep your keys and phone close at hand. Bag measures 20cm in height, width across the middle is 25cm and base width is 8cm.

Mint Velvet’s luxury women’s dresses, tops and accessories, combine modern silhouettes with artisan prints in the softest fabrics. Browse their new arrivals at

www.mintvelvet.co.uk or visit the Market Harborough Boutique or franchise in John Lewis, Leicester.

TO ENTER:

Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to competitions@theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘Mint Velvet’ in the subject bar. Closing date for entries is Friday 31 May 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.

FASHION & BEAUTY Black Belted Longline Cardigan, £89

Meribel Indigo Zip Front Jean, £79

Sorrento Square Sunglasses, £59

Ivy Leopard Lace Up Espadrille, £89

Home

Ivory Flocked Animal Star Tee, £39

& AWAY From Leicester to Lisbon, make light work of your BH wardrobe with this capsule collection from Mint Velvet.

Black Square Neck Top, £45

Black City Short, £59

Leopard Jacquard Blazer, £129

Claire Camel Leather Zip Bag, £119 Georgia Black Flatform Sandal, £109

URBAN FOX MAY 2019 13

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LONG & SHORT

OF IT SCALP

Get hair that’s shiny, strong and long, with our top tips and product recommendations.

A dry and unhealthy scalp can stop the regrowth of healthy hair. Use an exfoliating shampoo to stimulate circulation, get rid of dead skin cells and eliminate product build-up. Davines Detoxifying Scrub offers deep cleansing to stimulate the scalp and encourage cell turnover, while antioxidant-rich artichoke helps to protect hair from free-radical damage.

WASH

Stop washing your hair every day. It strips the follicles of their natural oils, leading to split ends and dull looking hair. The frequency of washing and the products you use will depend on the texture of your hair and its specific needs. Products can be expensive, so do ask your hairdresser for advice on the best ones for your hair before you buy.

CUT

Regular trims every 6-8 weeks help prevent split ends. When hairs split from the ends, the hair both looks and feels unhealthy. You can also avoid split ends by treating your hair gently when wet. Do not wring out your hair or rub vigorously with a towel. Instead blot or squeeze your hair lightly with the towel.

This causes less friction and reduces potential hair breakage.

DRY

Leaving your hair to air dry may not be as good for hair as you think. Wet hair swells, putting pressure on the cuticles and causing them to break.

Instead use a hairdryer, keeping it at least 6 inches away from your scalp and moving constantly. Using a diffuser attachment will also help create a more even air stream.

STYLE

Avoid heat styling as much as possible.

If you can’t bear to part with your ghd, use heat protection products and ensure the temperature is controlled.

If the temperature is too high, it can destroy the keratin in your hair, resulting in breakage. Try Restore Perfecting Spray by Living Proof. The formula defends against temperatures up to 205°C, while moisturising, nourishing and smoothing the hair.

OIL

Hair growth oils restore nutrients to your strands and scalp to increase hair production, strengthen the roots, and eliminate breakage. If you want to see

noticeable growth in a short amount of time, grab a bottle of Kérastase Initialiste Advanced Scalp and Hair Concentrate.

This specialised leave-in treatment will have your hair looking and feeling thicker and shinier within a week.

SUPPLEMENT

Hair health can be influenced by what's going on in our body. As well as a diet rich in omega 3s and antioxidants, you may want to consider taking a supplement. Award-winning Viviscal is scientifically formulated with nutrients Biotin and Zinc, which help maintain normal healthy hair growth from within.

SHIELD

Hair can burn in the sun you just can’t see it. The UV rays degrade the hair’s protein structure, leaving strands weaker and more vulnerable to breakage. When in the sun, apply a protective spray to your hair liberally, coating each strand. We love Kérastase Micro-Voile Protecteur. This waterproof and anti-frizz formula creates shine, leaving a natural touch to the hair.

URBAN FOX MAY 2019 17

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FASHION & BEAUTY

Keep

Combat red and uneven skin tones with a soothing skincare serum.

CALM

CLINIQUE REDNESS SOLUTIONS DAILY PROTECTIVE BASE, 40ML, £21 Comforting, oil-free makeup primer with a sheer green tint visually corrects redness, evens skin tone. 100% Fragrance Free.

ARK SKINCARE ANTIREDNESS SERUM, 30ML, £45 A soothing formula that works to counteract the look of redness on the skin. Formulated for all ages, it promotes a balanced complexion, boosting moisture levels to fortify the skin's natural barrier.

DIOR CAPTURE YOUTH REDNESS SOOTHER AGEDELAY SERUM, 30ML, £75 A blend of protective cotton peptides derived from natural sources for skin that appears soothed and even.

Its corrective greentinted texture helps to calm skin and leaves a feeling of freshness.

STILA ONE STEP CORRECT COLOUR CORRECTOR, 30ML, £26 This primer, colourcorrector, brightener and anti-aging skincare serum does it all. The weightless formula blends imperceptibly into skin instantly neutralising redness and concealing blemishes.

DARPHIN INTRAL REDNESS RELIEF SOOTHING SERUM, 50ML, £70 For all skin types experiencing discomfort and redness. Day after day, skin is calmed and soothed.

Redness is relieved. Skin is strengthened with a soothed looking complexion.

PAI SEA ASTER & WILD OAT INSTANT CALM REDNESS SERUM, 30ML, £46 Restores calm and confidence to reactive or distressed skin, helping to reduce the appearance of redness caused by flushing and Rosacea.

PAULA'S CHOICE CALM REDNESS RELIEF REPAIRING SERUM, 30ML, £32 A luxurious, antioxidant-enriched serum that soothes the appearance of redness.

Plant extracts leave skin superbly soft, hydrated, and calmed, allowing it to renew and rejuvenate.

REN EVERCALM™ ANTI-REDNESS SERUM, 30ML, £34 Reduce irritation and dryness with this calming facial serum. Developed to replenish and hydrate skin.

Visibly improves tone to help sensitised skin look younger for longer.

URBAN FOX MAY 2019 19

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U O Y S E K A M T WHA

Beautiful?

Beauty. Skin deep or in the eye of the beholder?

Sarah Mettrick explores how real beauty comes from the inside out.

Last week I was dragged into a packed Irish pub while on a Hen do.

I was feeling ugly and hideously old, nearly all the clientele was asked for ID whereas I almost qualify for a Saga holiday. After a short while a lady tottered up to me and said, “You’re beautiful.” Now I’m fairly sure she was either two sheets to the wind or hallucinating after some wacky baccy, nevertheless, for a couple of minutes she actually made me feel beautiful.

This got me to thinking, whether we are beautiful or not, and let’s face it beauty is completely subjective, we all have the capacity to feel beautiful.

So how can we feel beautiful more often without relying on compliments from others? Well, it has to come from within. The qualities, values and behaviours we nurture are the things that endure and will eventually determine whether we are beautiful both to ourselves and others.

The emotions we feel towards people including ourselves, play an important role when we interpret appearances.

We all know that a physically stunning person can soon become pretty ugly if they are rude or unpleasant.

Likewise, a person who is certainly no oil painting at first glance can become super attractive when they display their self-confidence, wit and kind heart. If we can feel beautiful on the inside, we will ooze confidence, feel happier and this translates into our physical beauty.

If we work on eliminating negativity from our lives and our minds we will create more, self-esteem. This will help us learn to accept ourselves and understand we all have the potential to be our very own kind of beautiful.

To me there is nothing more alluring than someone possessing realness.

We also need to develop and feed our interests, the things we care about or long to do that make us feel alive, they pull our passion to the surface so we can light up and radiate outwards.

If we practice these things alongside self-acceptance, self-love, kindness to others and forgiveness we will be nurturing our inner beauty and the outside will take care of itself.

Boden

Now I know being a good egg is not going to diminish those wrinkles, and I’m all for a new hair-do and the latest lippy. I care how I look and sometimes when I’m feeling frumpy my vanity will reduce my confidence. So, it’s all about balance, we all want to look good we just have to be careful that if we aim to be flawless or we get an insatiable hunger to keep changing ourselves on the outside, we probably need to ask ourselves what it is we are trying to fix.

If we can feel beautiful on the inside, we will ooze confidence, feel happier and this translates into our physical beauty.

It’s important to remember that how we look on the outside is only a fraction of our beauty. I once heard a cosmetic surgeon being asked “If a woman were to do just one thing to improve her looks and appear more youthful what should it be?” I loved his answer, especially as he had become a multi-millionaire by surgically changing the way people looked. He simply replied, “She should smile”.

URBAN FOX MAY 2019 21

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GUT FEELING Keeping your gut happy is essential to your body and mind, says Rebecca Watts at TheStudios40.

The human body is an amazing thing.

Every day without us even knowing, it’s balancing and regulating processes including our hormones, pH levels, water and brain chemistry. But sometimes the body’s functions can get out of sync, having a detrimental effect on our physical and mental wellbeing. The bacteria in your gut are incredibly important to your health.

Here’s how…

WHAT IS GUT HEALTH?

Gut microbiome is the name given to the microorganism population living in our intestine. Don’t panic this is very normal. Trillions of bacteria (among other organisms) both good and bad live in our digestive system.

The balance of this gut bacteria has been shown to affect normal body functioning such as digestion, energy metabolism and nutrient absorption.

More recently the gut has been shown to link with behaviour and mood, with scientists referring to a “mini brain” within our gut.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF POOR GUT HEALTH? Although our body works hard to keep a balance of good and bad gut

bacteria, its job is made harder due to a combination of western diets (processed, convenient and often contaminated foods), stress and the environment. These can all alter the balance of our gut bacteria.

Symptoms of poor gut health vary from person to person but can include: • digestive problems • inflammation and aching of muscles and joints • flaring up of conditions such as arthritis, cold sores and IBS • increase or introduction of allergies E.g. hay fever, asthma, psoriasis • increase or introduction of food intolerances E.g. gluten, dairy, wheat • compromised immune system • depression and anxiety • mood and motivation changes • tiredness and fatigue • general feeling of un-wellness without knowing why

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

It’s always advisable to get any health problems and symptoms checked out by your GP but if you’re finding that these symptoms are ringing bells, then you may want to try balancing your gut health.

Nutrition: Diet plays a crucial role in your gut health. Eat healthily, consuming whole, organic, and non-processed foods

wherever possible and keep sugar intake low. Take a break from anything causing intolerances and add probiotic foods such as live yoghurts, probiotic drinks and fermented foods (kefir, sauerkraut, tempeh, kimchi, miso, kombucha) to your diet.

Lifestyle: Day to day stresses can affect our gut health, so if you’re feeling anxious incorporate some stress management techniques into your daily routine. Exercise, mindfulness, relaxation and down time, can all contribute to relieving stress and improving your gut health.

Supplements: Sometimes our body needs a help getting back in sync. A 6-8 weeks of probiotics twice a year may help keep your gut in good health. Look for probiotics with a high level of good bacteria, a use by date and a delayed time release to ensure that they get to where they’re needed. Omega 3 has also been shown to keep a diverse gut microbiome, so it’s worth increasing this in your diet or through taking a supplement too.

URBAN FOX MAY 2019 23

WIN!

EARTHENWARE

by Emma Bridgewater

Win this selection of bowls from the Emma Bridgewater Vegetable Garden range, featuring: An Artichoke Large Old Bowl adorned with glossy artichokes inside and outside, just waiting for you to fill with the salads or vegetables of your own choice.

Height 12cm, diameter 21cm.

A Tomato Medium Old Bowl that is full of tomatoes without you even having to add a fresh one. Great for green salad too. Height 9.5cm, diameter 16.5cm.

Well-loved and known for her eclectic and quintessentially British style, Emma Bridgewater’s ceramics will add a kitsch twist to any home. Discover a range of beautiful and unique yet practical pottery at www.emmabridgewater.co.uk

TO ENTER:

Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to

A Chillies Small Old Bowl. A spicy guacamole is destined competitions@theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘Emma Bridgewater’ in for this bowl, decorated with red chilli peppers. Strike up the subject bar. Closing date for entries is Friday 31 May 2019.

Terms & Conditions: The winner will be drawn after the specified closing date. The Editor’s the salsa music - Olé! Height 7.4cm, diameter 12.3cm All bowls are dishwasher and microwave safe.

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

FEELING

FRUITY

Sweeten up your savouries with a colourful dash of fruit, in these classic culinary combos from Waitrose.

URBAN FOX MAY 2019 25

CHICKEN ROASTED WITH GRAPES & LEEKS Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 45 minutes Serves: 4 Ingredients: 4 British chicken legs, trimmed of excess fat 2-3 leeks, trimmed and sliced 150g green grapes, halved 4 rosemary sprigs 100ml fresh chicken stock Squeeze lemon juice Handful rocket leaves, to serve

1

2

for 3-4 minutes until softened, then stir in the grapes, rosemary, stock (or wine or water) and a squeeze of lemon juice. Arrange the chicken legs on top and roast everything for 25 minutes until the chicken is completely cooked through.

Preheat the oven to 200°C, gas mark 6. Preheat a large ovenproof pan or casserole over a medium-high heat.

Season the chicken legs and add to the pan, skin-side down. Fry for 10 minutes until golden. Turn and cook for 2-3 minutes on the underside.

3

Set the chicken aside on a plate and add the leeks to the pan with a pinch of salt. Fry

Serve with creamy mash, carrot and swede mash or soft polenta (to soak up the gorgeous juices) and a handful of rocket leaves.

MIDDLE EASTERN PANZANELLA Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 40 minutes Serves: 4-6 Ingredients: 2 aubergines, cut into wedges 2 red onions, cut into wedges 3 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp fennel seeds ½ tsp chilli flakes 3 pitta bread, cut into shards 1 small cauliflower, cut into florets 3 tbsp tahini ½ orange, juice 1 garlic clove, finely grated 14g coriander, roughly chopped 125g pomegranate seeds

Images and recipes: Waitrose

1

Preheat the oven to 200˚C, gas mark 6. Toss the aubergine and onion with 2 tbsp oil, the fennel seeds and chilli flakes; season. Spread on a parchment-lined baking tray and roast for 20 minutes.

2

Toss the pitta and cauliflower with the remaining 1 tbsp oil; season. Stir the aubergine and onions, then nestle the pitta and cauliflower florets in between.

Turn the oven up to 220˚C, gas mark 7, and roast for another 20 minutes, until golden.

3

For the dressing, mix the tahini with the orange juice, garlic and 3-5 tbsp warm water until smooth and the consistency of double cream. Arrange the vegetables and pitta over a large serving plate, spoon over the tahini dressing, and scatter with the coriander and pomegranate before serving.

WINING & DINING

SLOW-ROASTED PORK BELLY Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 2 hours 15 minutes Serves: 6 Ingredients: 750g pork belly joint 1 garlic bulb, halved 2 British apples, halved and cored 2 onions, quartered 3 rosemary sprigs 500ml Cooks’ Ingredients Fresh Chicken Stock 150ml dry cider 2 x 400g cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained 200g pack cavolo nero, leaves stripped from stalks and roughly torn

1

Preheat the oven to 160°C, gas mark 3.

Pat the pork belly dry with kitchen towel and go over the scoring with a sharp knife making it a little deeper; season all over with fine salt. Put the garlic, apples, onions and rosemary in a roasting tin and sit the pork, skin-side up, on top. Roast for 1 hour 30 minutes.

2

Turn the oven up to 220°C, gas mark 7.

Remove the roasting tin from the oven and spoon off any excess fat. Stir in the stock and cider, scraping up any sticky bits from the pan. Add the beans, then roast for another 30 minutes.

3

Lift out the pork and set aside to rest. If the skin on the pork isn’t crisp enough, put the pork on a foil-lined tray under a medium grill for a few minutes.

4

Squeeze the garlic cloves into the beans and discard the skin, plus any apple skin and woody rosemary stalks. Stir the cavolo nero leaves into the beans and return to the oven for another 10 minutes.

Slice the pork belly and serve with the beans, a dollop of Dijon mustard (if liked) and a glass of dry, crisp and fruity cider.

URBAN FOX MAY 2019 27

Our new Kitchen Studio is now open within our showroom in Leicester, where you can talk to our sales team about your dream kitchen. And for a limited time, we’re giving away a free appliance worth up to £800 with every new kitchen*.

Kitchen

PLANNING

INSTALLATION

Kitchen Studio 15 William St Leicester LE1 1RW near St George’s Retail Park Call 0116 242 9384 or email sales.enquiries@robertpochin.co.uk

*Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

DESIGN

Recipes & Images: Waitrose

WINING & DINING

Spice is

RIGHT Break out the spices to bring a balance of flavour to your dishes.

CUMIN & LEMON CHICKEN Serves: 4 Ingredients: 400g chicken mini breast fillets 1 tbsp sunflower oil 1½ tsp ground cumin 2 garlic cloves, crushed 1 lemon, zest and juice ½ x 375g pack Tilda Basmati & Wild Rice 1 large onion, finely sliced 15g unsalted butter 1 leek, halved and sliced 2 carrots, grated 1 tsp ground cinnamon 50g dried cranberries 25g pack flat leaf parsley, roughly chopped 4 tbsp natural yogurt Method: Preheat the grill to high. Toss the chicken in a bowl with ½ tbsp oil, ½ tsp cumin, the garlic and the juice of ½ lemon; season and set aside. Put the rice in a large saucepan and cover with plenty of cold water. Bring to the boil, then simmer for

20 minutes; drain.

Meanwhile, heat the remaining ½ tbsp oil in a large frying pan over a medium-high heat. Add the onion and a pinch of salt; fry for 10 minutes, stirring, until just golden. Add the butter, leek and carrots and fry for another 3-4 minutes. Stir in the remaining 1 tsp cumin, the cinnamon and cranberries; fry for another 2-3 minutes. Stir through the drained rice and the remaining juice of ½ lemon; check the seasoning.

Arrange the chicken fillets in a foillined shallow baking tray and grill for 5-6 minutes on each side, until the juices run clear and there is no pink meat. Toss the parsley through the rice, then stir most of the lemon zest through the yogurt, with the remainder sprinkled on top. Serve the chicken with the rice and the lemon yogurt alongside.

PRAWN YELLOW THAI CURRY Serves: 2 Ingredients: ½ x 385g pack butternut squash slices ½ tbsp sunflower oil 1 pack Cooks’ Ingredients Yellow Thai Curry Recipe Kit 150g pack pre-cooked extra-large king prawns 100g green beans, cut into 4cm pieces 1 tbsp light brown soft sugar 1 tsp fish sauce Small handful coriander, roughly chopped 1 lime, cut into wedges Method: Preheat the oven to 220˚C, gas mark 7. Arrange the squash in a parchmentlined roasting tin, drizzle with the oil and roast for 25 minutes, turning halfway through.

Meanwhile, from the recipe kit, empty the container of coconut milk into a large saucepan, add 140ml water and the dried chilli, lemongrass and lime leaf. Simmer for 2 minutes; stir in the curry paste and the drained pack of baby corn.

Stir in the prawns, green beans, sugar and fish sauce. Check the seasoning, adding more fish sauce if liked, and simmer for 4 minutes.

Take off the heat, then stir in the roasted squash and scatter with the coriander. Serve with the lime wedges for squeezing over, plus some jasmine rice, if liked.

URBAN FOX MAY 2019 29

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LIFE & WORK

THE

Good Life Stressed, unmotivated and burned-out from modern living?

Take a break from busy and reboot your life, for that chilled-out holiday feeling all year round.

Do just one thing

Multi-tasking can mean that we make less progress, having to return to unfinished tasks. So make like a man.

You won’t find him doing more than one thing, and sometimes not even that. Keep your focus simple and choose one thing to do brilliantly, before moving onto the next task.

Go off grid

It’s not just the kids that need tech limits, screen overload can affect us all.

Make a conscious decision how long to browse each day and then when your time is up, ‘switch off’ - both physically and metaphorically. For an extended break, book a digital detox holiday. No phones allowed.

Put a tick in the box

Is yesterday’s ‘To Do’ list holding you back from achieving today? Simply add a few easy things which can be done quickly or even something you’ve almost completed. Ludicrous? Yes. But try it, it feels so good! Tick.

Take a nano-break

A holiday would be fabulous but not always practical when work deadlines

are looming. Instead learn how to hit the pause button in your day.

Breathing exercises, a cup of herbal tea at your desk; whatever it takes to signal to your brain that it’s time to take a short breather.

Avoid time stealers

Whether it’s answering unimportant emails, procrastinating, or giving our time to people that give nothing back – these are the things we do, that mean we’re unable to do something else more critical, enjoyable etc. This week make a list of things you’re not going to do and stick to it.

Let happiness in

Let’s face it, it’s not your 600 Facebook ‘friends’ that’ll make you happy but finding time for the people you love most will. Find a balance, by making space in your life for those weekend breaks with the girls, leisurely family brunches and days out with the kids.

Be mindful

the rest of the day will follow suit.

Try setting your alarm half an hour earlier and use the time for an extended shower, unhurried breakfast or yoga exercises. You’ll feel more in control and in a better place to tackle the day ahead.

Plan ahead

After a long day it’s normal to want to relax in front of the TV. But why not spend an hour preparing for the next day instead. Whether it’s prepping your lunch or ironing your work clothes, being prepared will de-stress you and help the next day go more smoothly.

Buck the trend

Finally, if everyone else is super busy it doesn’t take long for us to let our lives fill up too. Instead buck the trend and seek out that colleague who has a life outside work (you know, the one that leaves on time), or the friend that shuns Facebook, and follow the beat of their drum. You’ll find it rubs off!

If you start your day in a mad blur, URBAN FOX MAY 2019 31

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URBAN FOX MAY 2019 33

SURVIVING

Hollywood Anne Hathaway’s early start in show business left her open to feeling the negative affects of fame all the harder – now, looking back on a silver screen career spanning nearly two decades, the star has settled into taking on new ventures, ignoring the naysayers, and finally accepting herself.

LIFE & WORK

The life of a Hollywood star brings with it a level of scrutiny that can often seem unnecessarily austere, and Anne Hathaway is perhaps the greatest example of such a fame phenomenon. Throughout the doeeyed New Yorker’s career, various barbs have been levelled at her, leaving Hathaway actively putting on a public façade: “I didn't think I was good enough,” she nods. “So, I pretended to be someone I wasn't."

But even having subconsciously acquiesced to her doubters in the past, the modern-day Hathaway is no longer the nervy, Princess Diaries star of yesteryear. Candid to a fault, Hathaway has, in recent times, been working hard on not trying so hard.

"I’m much more secure and less confused about what I want,” the 36-year-old explains. “I spent way too much time trying to be perfect and then going through periods of anxiety and confusion that would leave me exhausted. Now I take things as they come, and I don’t block myself. I guess it’s all about gaining more perspective and being able to enjoy things rather than constantly worrying all the time."

It's not just off-screen that Hathaway is finally beginning to accept her myriad talents, either. A quick scan of the star’s cinematic resume offers up romantic comedies (Ella Enchanted, Valentine’s Day), critically acclaimed dramas (Les Misérables, Interstellar), and even box office blockbusters (The Dark Knight Rises). Last year saw her join an ensemble of Hollywood’s most fearless females for Ocean’s 8, and now Hathaway is flexing her comedic muscles alongside Rebel Wilson for comic-crime-caper The Hustle.

"You know, I never thought I’d be able to say what I’m about to say: ‘I did it for the fun of it’,” she says of her latest venture. “It just seemed like it was going to be a blast, and it mostly was..."

Though Hathaway is only just shy of her mid-thirties, projects like The Hustle are reflective of her growing status as one of the silver screens most experienced female stars.

I think women become more confident as we get older and we become happier. You learn to present yourself in a more authentic way...

“It’s different now because you’re trying to find new elements to your personality and new ways of exploring characters,” she says. “I know that for me acting is a way of revealing myself and getting in touch with sides of myself that I would otherwise be reluctant to know. Acting makes me very vulnerable and once you go through that process you feel much stronger afterwards and there’s definitely a therapeutic side to that. I also love being able to create a performance and make an audience feel that they understand your character and maybe something about me, too.”

Hathaway’s experience on-screen has let her inhabit a plethora of varied characters – “I pretty much love them all,” she smiles. “But I'm particularly proud of my work in Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland and Tom Hooper's Les Misérables”. This latter role of Fantine eventually won Hathaway her only Academy Award, and while the emotional toll of the role reaped great rewards, the star has since learned to consider less intense factors.

“I’ve learnt to be less driven and less stressed,” she explains. “I spent too many years where I was focussed so much on my career that I suppressed a lot of things, a lot of feelings. When

your life is spent on a film set, especially when you start out early in this business, you can also warp your emotional growth. I think I needed to deal with certain issues and I finally came to grasps with a lot of things in my twenties and now I feel so much freer and more open as a person.”

One thing, however, that has not changed is Hathaway’s inner resolve and she has long been a vocal advocate of re-balancing gender disparities through her work as a UN Goodwill Ambassador.

“Long before the MeToo movement was set in motion, I have been fighting for equal rights for women and I will never stop doing so,” she nods. “Sadly, there are still lot of strides to be made. Specifically, we need better roles for women. We need studios to be actively looking to launch franchises for women. We also need more female superheroes with their own franchises. If we start to do that, then we will see a bigger increase in pay because so much of what dictates the terms of your contract is the size of your role. If you are always playing the second banana behind the big male lead, there is always going to be a pay gap.”

As an actress, she made her name in fairy-tale rom-coms, but having copped her fair share of criticism along the way, Hathaway can now appreciate her journey has not been for naught.

“I’m drawn to romantic stories, but life isn’t necessarily always like that,” she says. “I think women become more confident as we get older and we become happier. You learn to present yourself in a more authentic way in life. I used to put out this very open, super-cool persona, but then I figured out that I don’t have to put on an act, and I can still be appreciated just for who I am.”

URBAN FOX MAY 2019 35

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Join us for one of our Swans reception class Taster Sessions:

Thursday 2nd May Wednesday 22nd May Friday 21st June

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MANOR SCHOOL & NURSERY

Please contact us to reserve your child’s place: 01530 222276 or visit www.gracedieu.com

LIFE & WORK

Time for

SCHOOL

September may seem like a lifetime away, but the new school year will be upon you before you know it! “Children starting in Reception ideally need to begin to prepare for ‘big school’ now”, says Margaret Kewell, Headmistress at Grace Dieu Manor School.

Here she explains how.

If you know your child can be a bit fussy with their food, why not have a look at the school’s menu and perhaps even introduce them to some of the dishes beforehand. There’s also the fun part of trying on uniform – not just to make sure it fits, but to get them used to, and proud of, their new clothes!

Positive projections

Grow independence

It’s normal for parents to be concerned about their children starting school for the first time – naturally they worry about how they’ll fit in, be cared for and supported to develop both in and outside of the classroom.

Firstly, discuss any concerns with the school you’ve chosen – they should take the time to explain how children are looked after in the first few weeks and how you, as a parent, can best support them in this transition.

Then, once you are more assured, you need to project positivity about joining school to your child. They take their cues from you and they will pick up on your nerves or concerns. Talk to your child about what the shape of their day will look like, what they’ll be doing. Pick out

the bits you think will interest them and focus on these – for example Outdoor Learning sessions, Music, PE, or learning a brand new language!

Practice run

If you don’t already attend a Nursery that is attached to the school you are joining, you might want to get your child used to both the school and the school run. You can do this during ‘taster’ or ‘induction’ sessions, as well as by just pointing out where the school is while you are out and about – normalising it as part of your life.

Explain to your child how long their day will be – if they’re going into breakfast club or staying for after-school clubs or care. If possible, try to get them used to the length of their school day, so it doesn’t come as a shock to them.

Preparing their resilience now means they won’t get cumulatively tired when they start in September.

All children are at different points, educationally, when they start school.

Teachers are specialists in educational development: how to nurture their reading, writing and number work.

You, as parents, can really help by developing their confidence and independence – so they are ready and prepared to learn. For example, simple things - such as beginning to get dressed and undressed by themselves – really helps children to be ready for PE and swimming lessons. Perhaps encourage them by saying that by being able to put on their own coat it means they’ll be able to enjoy more playtime.

As with most things, it’s about striking the right balance. Try not to overload your child with endless talk about school – treating it in a matter-of-fact way rather than focusing on the ‘big step ahead’ will help soothe any anxieties.

URBAN FOX MAY 2019 37

HOMES & GARDENS 1

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Forest Therapy

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With time among the trees thought to help you relax and refuel, unwind at home with forest therapy. Just add plants.

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1 Swedish Domino Throw, £69, Andshine 2 Neil Table Light, £143, Ligne Roset 3 Velvet Emerald Green Cushion, £45, The French Bedroom Co. 4 Ecume Rug, £1038, Ligne Roset 5 Glass Vase & Candle Votives Set, £35, Beaumonde 6 Jackson Upholstered Armchair, £379, Cult Furniture 7 Karlsson Lush Velvet Alarm Clock, £29, Cult Furniture 8 Stoneware Green Plant Pot, £33, Hurn & Hurn

7 8

URBAN FOX MAY 2019 39

WIN!

DECORATIVE GLASSWARE

by Nkuku

You could be the lucky winner of these two Chara Hammered Bottles by Nkuku.

Full of sophisticated rustic charm; these artisan made pieces involve hammering the glass with traditional tools providing a subtle textured affect. The glass is skilfully blown through the brass ring creating this elegant shape. Burn marks are often evident on the brass as a result of this complex handmade process. Dimensions: Large bottle 23cm (height) x 9cm (diameter); Small bottle 18cm (height) x 9cm (diameter).

Nkuku create beautifully handmade home and lifestyle products; working with artisans throughout the world, combining timeless design with traditional skills and natural materials. Discover their collection of ethical and eco-friendly handmade homewares and lifestyle products at www.nkuku.com

TO ENTER:

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

Closing date for entries is Friday 31 May 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.

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Images: Neptune

HOMES & GARDENS

BALANCING

ACT

Creating a balanced and harmonious space relies on the 3 P’s - placement, proportion and palette.

HIT THE HEIGHTS

THINK BIG

Don’t cram a room full of small objects. Although you might want to create the perception of space, it’s also important to have a focal point. Having too many small items can also inadvertently make the room feel more cluttered.

SPREAD THE LOVE

Don’t make one side of the room colour heavy or use a colour only once in a room.

Instead opt for a palette of two or three colours and use them throughout the space.

This will carry the eye around the room and create interest.

A room where all the furniture and accessories are the same height will lack interest. Create scale and proportion by placing tall pieces next to short items. A book shelf next to a sofa, or a standing lamp behind an armchair.

IT’S A MISMATCH

Don’t match everything perfectly.

Balance a bold colour with a large pattern on wallpaper, curtains or cushions; or pair warm tones with cool colours. Dip a toe with variations of a hue. These blue tones create a fresh and vibrant feel.

COMBINE & CONTRAST

For an eclectic style, mix different elements of your design. Modern and period furniture, luxurious and harsh textures, abstract art with photography.

Whatever it is, apply the 80/20 rule, choosing a main and supporting feature.

URBAN FOX MAY 2019 43

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URBAN FOX MAY 2019 45

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HOMES & GARDENS

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Design Project No.019 Throw, from £65, John Lewis

Peonies in Vintage Floral Pot, £125, John Lewis Ciao Bed, £945, Loaf

Velvet Cirque Chair, £915, Out There Interiors

Jones Goodnight Alarm Clock, £16, John Lewis

Pembury Printed Ombre Rug, £250, John Lewis

URBAN FOX MAY 2019 47

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HOMES & GARDENS

HOME

Improvements When looking to update your home, consider not just your own needs, but those of future purchasers too, says Fothergill Wyatt’s, Nicol Nightingale-Spear.

I often hear feedback from perspective purchasers that they love the upstairs or downstairs of a house, but the other just doesn’t work for them. Unless you’re certain this will be your forever home, be careful not to personalise your property so much that you narrow the pool of purchasers it’ll appeal to, when it's time to sell. Here’s my tips to avoid falling into the resale trap…

Upstairs downstairs

Don’t overspend and invest too much money extending the ground floor living areas of your home, if you’re limited by the extension possibilities for sleeping accommodation. This imbalance will risk you breaching the ceiling price for your size of property.

Room ratios

Retain a good bedroom to bathroom ratio. A property with 5-6 bedrooms needs at least 2-3 bathrooms and ideally a ground floor WC too. A main family bathroom is essential, and where possible should include a bath with a shower overhead or ideally

a separate shower cubicle. Don’t sacrifice a main bathroom in favour of more, smaller en suite shower rooms.

Hidden space

During the Arts and Crafts period, built-in storage became popular in kitchens, living rooms and bedrooms, but in recent years they’ve often been sacrificed to create a greater feeling of space. Think carefully about the storage in your house and how valuable you find it, before deciding to remove any built-in cupboards. You can always replace cupboard fronts to create a fresh new look.

Dizzy heights

If considering a loft extension to provide an office or another bedroom with en suite, ensure you compensate for the lost space. Where are you (and future purchasers) going to keep your Christmas decorations, suitcases and those things you can’t bear to part with. Utilise tricky spaces under the eaves or consider creating storage elsewhere, a garden shed or

cupboards in the garage perhaps.

Flexible living

Since the 19th Century it’s been popular for homes to be divided into several smaller rooms. Partly for structural reasons but also lifestyle. However, current trends lean toward a more open plan layout. To appeal to a wider range of purchasers, create flexibility. If you opt for an open plan family living kitchen, retain your sitting room. Or if you knock through a dividing wall, add double doors.

Low maintenance

Most purchasers love some outdoor space, but not everyone is an avid gardener, so a large garden that requires a lot of maintenance may prove a deterrent. If you’re fortunate enough to have an extensive garden, ensure it’s zoned into different areas, including some which are low maintenance (patios, stones, decking etc). These will make the garden appear more manageable during viewings.

URBAN FOX MAY 2019 51

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HOMES & GARDENS

Garden

RETREAT Connecting with plants, wildlife and the environment is a natural route to wellbeing, says Annie Burns, at Welland Vale Garden Inspirations.

fragrance is released by bruising the foliage, so consider planting creeping thymes in a path, or alternatively lemon balm, lavender or rosemary along the edge of a path. The scent will be released as you tread on them or brush past.

Here’s my top 10 tips on how your garden can create a great source of relaxation, comfort and enjoyment.

1

Weeding, watering and dead-heading doesn’t have to be a chore. Use this time to appreciate your plants and admire their beauty. It’ll help you relax, as well as ensuring you notice any problems such as pest infestation or the need to feed or replenish the soil.

2

Refresh your senses by filling your borders with flowers and plants that create beautiful colour and alluring fragrances.

When planting perennials or herbaceous plants, plant in 3s or 5s for greater visual impact.

5

Other plants known for their fragrance include nepeta, scented geraniums, sweet peas, philadelphus, nicotiana and honeysuckles, but one of my great favourites is the Gertrude Jeckyll rose with its deep pink blooms and heady scent.

6

Bring nature to your backdoor with a wildlife garden. There are lots of simple things you can do.

Install a bird box, build an insect hotel or provide a habitat in long grass, have a compost heap, and leave gaps at the bottom of garden fences to allow wildlife to enter the garden.

3

Even the smallest garden can accommodate somewhere for growing fruit and vegetables and nothing compares with the pride and taste of home-grown produce, freshly harvested from your own back yard.

4

Herbs offer an array of colour, texture and functionality. The

7

Create calmness through symmetrical design, such as a pair of neatly trimmed topiary. Try Ilex crenata as an alternative to box.

It’s sturdier and not prone to ‘box blight’. Don’t trim box in rain or

bright sunlight and keep shears clean by dunking blades in disinfectant to avoid spreading disease.

8

For a holistic approach create a Japanese inspired garden. Start with a focal point such as a magnificent acer or miniature cherry; then add ferns, and Japanese blood grass.

Select other plant including azaleas, chaenomeles or nandina domestica and finish with mosses to spread over rocks.

9

For a less stylised approach, create a serene setting in a corner of your garden using an array of materials.

Design a path using gravel or stepping stones and add a seating area produced from reclaimed wood or stone. Garden art, a sculpture or wind chimes can help focus the mind.

10

Many people find water features relaxing. The gentle sound of running water, the splash of a fountain, or reflections of the sky.

There are many ways to incorporate the sight and sound of water.

Fountains can easily be integrated into your garden design to create a focal point and add interest.

URBAN FOX MAY 2019 57

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

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

www.ticketsource.co.uk/uppinghamschool 01572 820820 boxoffice@uppingham.co.uk

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

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

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

WHAT’S ON

Romeo and Juliet, 13 - 15 May, Curve

MAY 2019

Spartacus

Hormonal Housewives

Romeo and Juliet

For one night only, one of The Australian Ballet's most popular works springs to new life. Spartacus tells the story of a gladiator who led a slaves' rebellion against the Roman empire. Charting the journey of a man finding passionate love, his mission and freedom, the ballet showcases the company at their spirited and athletic best. Think ballet is all pointe shoes and tutus? Think again.

Join Vicki Michelle and the Hormonal Housewives in a hilarious, no-holds-barred romp through the joys of being a fabulous 21st Century woman. Weight gain, weight loss, mood swings, men, zumba, bikini waxes, online shopping, chocolate, wine, more chocolate, more wine, teenage tantrums, going out and staying in, are all mercilessly sliced and diced with vivacious abandon! A seriously funny evening – what these women can’t teach you about modern womanhood isn’t worth knowing!

Matthew Bourne’s Romeo and Juliet is a passionate and contemporary re-imagining of Shakespeare’s classic love story.

Confined against their will by a society that seeks to divide, our two young lovers must follow their hearts as they risk everything to be together. Bursting with youth, vitality and Matthew Bourne‘s trademark storytelling, Leicester’s brightest young dance talent join the New Adventures company, with direction and choreography

by Matthew Bourne, design by Lez Brotherston, lighting by Paule Constable, sound by Paul Groothuis and new orchestrations of the Prokofiev score by Terry Davies played live by the New Adventures Orchestra. Age recommendation 12+.

Wed 8 May Cinema De Lux Tickets from £13 showcasecinemas.co.uk

Sat 11 May Haymarket Theatre Tickets £26 haytheatre.com

Spartacus, 8 May, Cinema De Lux

Mon 13 - Wed 15 May Curve Theatre Tickets from £10 curveonline.co.uk

URBAN FOX MAY 2019 59

Tor Hills

Edith in the Dark

Tue 21 - Sat 25 May Market Harborough Theatre harboroughtheatre.com

Elizabeth Bass, 17 May, Oakham School Chapel

All My Sons Tue 14 May Phoenix Tickets from £14 phoenix.org.uk

Broadcast live from the Old Vic in London, comes Arthur Miller’s blistering drama All My Sons.

America, 1947. Despite hard choices and even harder knocks, Joe and Kate Keller are a success story.

They have built a home, raised two sons and established a thriving business. But nothing lasts forever and their contented lives – already shadowed by the loss of their eldest boy to war – are about to shatter.

With the return of a figure from the past, long buried truths are forced to the surface and the price of their American dream is laid bare. Jeremy Herrin directs a cast including Academy Award-winner Sally Field (Steel Magnolias, Brothers & Sisters), Bill Pullman (The Sinner, Independence Day), Jenna Coleman (Victoria) and Colin Morgan (Merlin).

Elizabeth Bass Fri 17 May Oakham School Chapel Tickets £10 wegottickets.com

Old Oakhamian Elizabeth Bass returns to Oakham School Chapel to perform a captivating harp recital.

Elizabeth is one of the leading

British harpists of her generation, winning many prizes both nationally and internationally. In 2016, Elizabeth became the first British person to reach the final of the prestigious USA International Harp Competition in Bloomington, Indiana and was awarded the Silver Medal. Elizabeth performs throughout the country as an orchestral player, ensemble player and soloist and will be performing works by Scarlatti, Fauré and Albeniz.

The Trials of Oscar Wilde

Fri 17 May Stamford Arts Centre Tickets from £8 stamfordartscentre.com Following a sell-out west End run, European Arts Company presents this brilliant dramatisation of the libel and criminal trials of Oscar Wilde, written by his grandson Merlin Holland. Thursday 14 February 1895 was the triumphant opening night of The Importance of Being Earnest and the zenith of Wilde’s career. Less than 100 days later, he found himself a common prisoner sentenced to two years hard labour. So what happened during the trials and what did Wilde say? Was he persecuted or the author of his own downfall? Using the actual words spoken in court, we can feel what it was like to be in the company of a flawed genius - as this less than ideal husband is suddenly reduced to a man of no importance.

Christmas Eve 1909, as midnight swiftly approaches, in her attic writing room, Edith Nesbit gives a reading of her work.

Not one of her cherished children’s tales, such as The Railway Children, but some of her terrifying early horror and ghost stories. As the stories unfold it becomes clear that all is not what it seems.

Someone in the attic is hiding a deadly secret. Edith in the Dark is a haunting glimpse into the nightmarish inner world of an author whose reputation for cosy childhood innocence is only half the story.

The Guilty Feminist Thu 30 May De Montfort Hall Tickets from £16.50 demontforthall.co.uk

The Guilty Feminist podcast has become a comedy phenomenon with over 50 million downloads since it launched in late 2015.

Comedian Deborah Frances-White and her guests explore the noble goals of 21st century feminists whilst confessing the insecurities, hypocrisies and paradoxes which undermine those goals. Joining Deborah for this special touring version of the show will be Sindhu Vee, as seen on Have I Got News for You, QI, and Live at the Apollo; critically acclaimed stand-up comedian, writer and actor Jen Brister and comedy award winner Heidi Regan. Expect laughs, excitement, tears and spectacle as only The Guilty Feminist can provide.

The Guilty Feminist, 30 May, De Montfort Hall

Wingates Gallery, Market Harborough Originals

Limited Editions

Sculptures

Bespoke Framing

As an independent gallery, we pride ourselves on our extensive selection of art including glass and ceramic sculptures with something to suit all tastes and budgets. We extend a warm, friendly welcome and the guarantee of great service to all of our customers to make purchasing art a relaxed and enjoyable experience.

In addition to our beautiful collection of art, we also offer a full framing service for your favourite picture, signed football shirt, treasured photograph or your grandparent’s medals - our expert framing service can help you make any item look its very best.

Wingates Walk, 44a St Mary’s Road, Market Harborough LE16 7DU Tel: 01858 465455 www.wingatesgallery.co.uk

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gildings auctioneers

Are there jewels at home you do not wear or silver tucked away in the attic?

For a free no obligation valuation for sale contact our jewellery specialist: Denise Cowling (FGA, RJ Dip) Telephone: 01858 410414 Email: denise.cowling@gildings.co.uk

Illustrated An impressive pair of Fabergé amethyst, diamond, and enamel brooches, circa 1900. £2,000 - £3,000 To be sold in our September Fine Art auction

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

Book

REVIEW From food, to flowers and Finland, books to restore, refresh and regenerate.

Do Pause

by Robert Poynton Machines are designed to run constantly; people aren't.

To prosper, we need sustainable coping mechanism an ability to pause. Do Pause: You are not a To Do List provides practical tools to help you create new habits or make more significant lifestyle choices. You'll discover ways to reset and regenerate; deepen your thinking and experiences; take back control of your time and reconnect with other people - and yourself. And the good news is, even just a small pause every now and again can make a real and lasting difference.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

The Finnish Way

by Katja Pantzar Forget hygge, it's time to blow out the candles and get out into the world! If you've ever wondered if there's a better, simpler way to find happiness and good heath, look no further. The Finns have a word for that - ‘sisu’ and this empowering book shows us how to achieve it. Topics include movement as medicine, forest therapy, healthy eating and the ‘gift of sisu’. Engaging and practical, this guide shows readers what makes Finns one of the happiest populations in the world.

Rewind Your Body Clock

by Jayney Goddard A book designed to put you firmly back in control of how you age, giving invaluable insight into the power of everything from nutrition, herbs, breathing and exercise, to skincare, hair care, hormonal balance, positive relationships and the power of nature and restful sleep. Tailored practical guidance includes natural ‘rewind’ techniques, how to develop a positive ‘rewind’ mindset, a 21-Day Rewind Plan, plus biological age tests for you to assess your progress.

Little Green Kitchen

by David Frenkiel and Luise Vindahl Like most families, David and Luise know the road to feeding your children isn't always a straight one. In this book they share their passion for cooking fun, modern, wholesome meals with kids' palates in mind, but that also are interesting enough for adults to enjoy.

Featuring 60 veggie-packed, kid-friendly recipes, with `upgrade' options for adults, plus tips on how to include the children in the preparations, this is the cookbook families will be turning to night after night for quick and satisfying dishes everyone will love.

Flower Market

by Michelle Mason In 2013 designer and illustrator Michelle Mason co-founded Mason & Painter, a vintage emporium on Columbia Road, in east London, a street famed for its Sunday flower market. Flower Market: Botanical Style at Home is brimming with texture, pattern and exciting and inspiring ways to group and display flowers, plants and succulents.

Buying locally and in tune with the seasons is at the heart of her philosophy, using salvage and reclaimed objects, vintage glassware and ceramics as props and backdrops.

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WWW.SOMERVILLE.LIFE C A L L : 0 11 6 2 7 6 6 6 6 5 I N F O @ S O M E R V I LLE . L I F E 40 GROSVENOR GATE, HUMBERSTONE, LEICESTER LE5 0UA

Images: White Stuff

PEOPLE & PLACES

Twin BREAK What does your ideal holiday look like? Two weeks stretched out on a sunlounger or something more adventurous? “Make the most of your holiday, with multiple destinations in one trip”, says Kirsty France.

City meets beach

If you’ve never seen the appeal of a city break, twin centre holidays could be the answer. By starting in a city and ending on a beach you can discover somewhere new and still have time to relax.

You don’t even have to go far. Spend a couple of days exploring historic Edinburgh then head to the East Neuk of Fife. There are gorgeous beaches, fish and chips and even a fairy trail for the kids.

Further afield, try Split in Croatia, then get the boat to Hvar or Brac, where you can swim from beautiful beaches. If you prefer a full on city experience, Bangkok is awesome.

Recover at Koh Samui’s beach front hotels, drink cocktails and have an amazing massage.

Time for wine?

Every holiday needs wine. In Cornwall you can stay in a cottage and sample the wares of the Camel Valley vineyard. Then head for the youth hostel in Coverack for windsurfing, kayaking and coasteering. They have family rooms, or you can camp for a bit of variety.

New Zealand has wine regions on both islands and loads of other activities, from swimming with dolphins to helicopter flights. I’d recommend going to Nelson on the South Island. It has delicious wine along with great music and culture.

Then switch to Queenstown, the adrenaline capital of New Zealand and original home of the bungee jump. If you don’t fancy a 24-hour flight, head to Sonoma Valley in California. It’s quieter than the more famous Napa Valley and has better wine. Drive to Yosemite for stunning scenery and hikes for all abilities.

Just watch out for the bears!

Family fun

Keep the kids happy and your holiday will be a breeze. You’d have to pay me to go to Disneyland but if it’s your thing, try Disneyland Paris followed by a few days in the city soaking up the culture. Alternatively, stay in the UK and have a short break at Legoland. Then relax in the New Forest where you can eat ice cream surrounded by ponies and gorgeous countryside.

Wet n Wild on Australia’s Gold Coast has been voted one of the world’s best water parks. A short flight takes you over the Great Barrier Reef to Cairns where you can discover Aboriginal culture and history as well as travelling through the rainforest in a cable car.

If travelling between different places seems too much like hard work, you can balance your holiday with different activities but stay in the same place. Try surfing then cream teas in Devon, a poolside holiday with sailing at the beach in Mexico, or combine your city break in Barcelona with some guided climbing.

Share your twin breaks with me on our Facebook page and #JointheConversation URBAN FOX MAY 2019 65

Fav for fashion

Chanel

Best for beauty

MY WAY

it cosmetics foundation

Shirley Yanez

“I love offering real fashion for real women”, says creator of the Perfect Black Legging™ and Venus Cow owner Shirley Yanez.

I was born in the Eyres Monsell estate, the fifth of six children. My mother left when I was eight, so I learnt to take care of myself when I was very young. It was tough growing up, but I’ve no regrets, my upbringing motivated me to strive for more.

I’m dyslexic, so after leaving school without qualifications, I made the decision to move to London to start a career in recruitment. Throughout the 1970s and 80s I worked for two top recruitment companies. I started at the bottom and worked my way up to Managing Director, looking after staff and branches across the UK. By 1995 I decided to strike out on my own, and with a £5,000 investment, started a financial headhunting firm in the City of London, moving teams of financial traders all around the world.

By 1999 my business was one of the most successful headhunting firms in the City. One year on, I sold the business, put my money in the stock market and moved to Los Angeles to get married and retire. I’d made it!

Three months later, the stock market crashed, and I lost all my money.

It wasn’t long before my marriage collapsed too, but I decided to stay in LA and rebuild my life. Along with my best friend, I opened a small art gallery, using an art collection which

I’d amassed during my City days.

But the tough times weren’t over.

By 2005, having sold all my assets, and struggling with a life-threatening medical condition, I decided to return to the UK. By 2011 I was back on my feet and ready for a new challenge, launching ‘Venus Cow’ with my business partner and sister-in-law. The company based in Peatling Magna, makes the globally trademarked PBL ‘Perfect Black Leggings’. When I’d returned to Leicester in 2005, I often shopped for designer clothes in charity shops.

I came across a pair of leggings for £5 and wore them until they fell off me. When I tried to replace them, I discovered they were produced by a French company that was no longer in business. So, I decided to approach some old clients in the City to raise investment and took the legging to one of the last remaining knitting mills in Nottingham to ask them to reproduce the miracle fabric. Two years later Venus Cow was manufacturing an ethically sourced, UK produced product, suitable for women of all ages, shapes and sizes.

By 2018, having added tees and dresses to the range, I decided to open Rescue Boutique in Francis Street, Stoneygate.

Customers make an appointment, and

On my nightstand

Carl Jung “Modern Man in Search of a Soul” Fun in the sun

Barbados

Top of my bucket list

Buy a New York loft Instant relaxation

Day at the spa

Advice to young self

Remember how fabulous you are To create balance I…

Meditate

as long as they purchase a pair of PBL or a tee, they can enjoy a one-to-one styling experience using our recycled collection, showing them how to create complete outfits that suit their body shape, age and lifestyle. Our concept flies in the face of fast fashion, focusing instead on preloved, amazing quality, designer wear. I love offering real fashion for real women and moving forward, I hope to take the Venus Cow brand and PBLs to the USA. In my spare time I life-coach the homeless and those with addiction.

My own life experiences and those of others has inspired me to write a book, “The Mind Detective”, which seeks to show people how to transform their mental health. Styling and writing joins together my two great passions, making over how people look, and how they feel too.

For more details about Venus Cow visit venuscow.com

0116 255 5745 WWW.DEWHIRSTKITCHENS.CO.UK OUR LEICESTERSHOWROOM IS LOCATED AT 98 GRANBY STREET, LEICESTER LE1 1DU

URBAN FOX MAY 2019 67

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

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