Urban Fox - November 2019 Issue

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November 2019

WIN

Skincare Set Utility Baskets Theatre Tickets

SLOW & STEADY...

...wins the race

Bake Off The Renée-ssaince UP YOUR OVEN GAME

SPACE SAVERS

Renée Zellweger interview GET YOUR COAT Splurge or save?

Savvy Solutions

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 1

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 3

Hello

With a little over 50 days to Christmas (I know!) you may already be feeling the pressure. But before you wrap yourself up in a fast and furious festive frenzy, grab a cuppa and unwind with this month’s Less is More edition.

COVER SHOT:

Atago Jumper & Pippa Hat, £65/£19.95, White Stuff

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URBANFOX

Get Your Coat. From high street to high end, the search for the best winter coat starts here. Blow the budget or get luxe for less with our splurge or save seasonal styles. We go Back to Black (and white) with minimalist monochrome and create a capsule collection that will Work It 9 to 5 and beyond. It’s the smart choice. And from office flair to short hair, we are top of the crops with AW19’s most daring styles. Whether you rock a popular pixie crop, or a bold buzz cut, lopping off your hair has never been so liberating.

Ever wondered how to do less and achieve more? Check our tips on working Smarter, Not Harder and discover how to deliver your best at work. And if you’re the strong, silent type, we show you how to unlock your potential and make introversion a superpower. One woman who loves a quieter life is American actress Renée Zellweger. After a self-imposed hiatus she’s having a Renéessaince playing Hollywood legend Judy Garland. We sense another Oscar in the making.

If like Oscar you’re looking for something small but perfectly formed, we explore how downsizing your property could save you both time and money. Then make the most of your bijou abode with our savvy Space Savers and indoor planters.

We also come in from the cold with this season’s hottest chair. From warm wool to furry faux fur, it’s time to snuggle up.

We’d love to hear how you’re embracing the less is more approach this season.

Share with us on Facebook and #JointheConversation.

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

13 30-31

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

SCANDUSTRIAL

HOMES & GARDE NS

Nolan Seagrass Basket, £55, Habitat

Reno Knitted Throw, £45, Made.com

STYLE Sleek and simple, this clever clashing of mate will give your home rials instant personality.

GILLIAN GATT Sales Consultant 07468 469971 Gillian@theurban-fox.co.uk KATIE TURNBULL Designer katie@theurban-fox.co.uk

11

Agra Side Table, £225, Next

Industrial Wall Mirror, £59.99, The Farthing

Newgate Brick Lane Alarm Clock, £22, Amara

African Vases, from £53.75, The Taylor

Venice Natural Cushion, £60, Bronte By Moon

Metal Table Lamp, £49, Cult Furniture

17

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.

Napper Bed, £845, Loaf

Moda Aviator Armchair, £159, Cult Furniture Image: Next

Bloomsbury Rug, £495, Habitat

URBAN FOX NOVEMB ER 2019 31

9

43

CONTRIBUTORS: Kirsty France and Rebecca Watts URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 5

November 15

HEALTH & WELLBEING

19 Slow & Steady… …wins the race

33

48

WINING & DINING 21 Bake Off

Up your oven game 25 Soup’s Up

Satisfying soups

HOMES & GARDENS 27 Hot Seat

Winter snugglers 30 Scandustrial Style

Mix and match 33 S pace Savers Savvy solutions 39 Down Size The right move?

43 Perfect Pots

No garden required

FASHION & BEAUTY 8 Back to Black…

…and white

25

11 Work It

The smart choice

LIFE & WORK 45 Me Myself & I The power of introverts 47 Smarter Not Harder

Do less, achieve more 48 The Renée-ssaince Renée Zellweger interview

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 51 Book Shelf

The simple life 53 What’s On

Entertaining the whole family

13 Get Your Coat

Splurge or save?

PEOPLE & PLACES

15 Short Hair Don’t Care

Cut yourself free

57 Winter Breaks

Be inspired

17 Make Mine A Double

Double duty beauty

58 My Way

Local spotlight on Roxanne Hodson

16

36

52

WIN SKINCARE SET

WIN UTILITY BASKETS

WIN PANTO TICKETS

by Charlotte Tilbury

from Made.com

at Loughborough Town Hall

OUTLET STORE

Get ready for winter! Stylish clothing and footwear for all the family - with quality & prices you’ll love!

EXTRA

10% OFF WITH THIS ADVERT

Bring this advert and get an extra 10% off everything instore – including sale items!

Find us at: Lands’ End Way, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6US LANDSEND.CO.UK URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 7

Georgia Tote Bag, £225, L.K. Bennett

Cowl Neck Button Jumper, £135, Jaeger

Riley Ankle Boots, £139, Mint Velvet

Florina Check Coat, £349, Hobbs

Drawstring Denim Jacket, £755, Selfridges

Knitted Midi Skirt, £89, Mint Velvet

Striped Jersey Top, £30, Samsoe & Samsoe

York Side Stripe Trainer, £139, Whistles

Kita Leather Backpack, £328, All Saints

FASHION & BEAUTY

Wandler Georgia Bag, £620, Harvey Nichols

Ceries Merino Jumper, £110, L.K. Bennett

Contrast Crepe Blazer, £305, Claudie Pierlot

Wanda Suede Shoe Boots, £99, John Lewis

Back to BLACK

(AND WHITE)

This asymmetric skirt will work all-year-round.

Team with monochrome separates for a minimalist vibe.

Y.A.S Sophie Biker Jacket, £140, John Lewis

Abigail Boots, £159, Mint Velvet

Kisses Print Shirt, £69, Mint Velvet

Flossie Camera Bag, £109, Ted Baker

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 9

MICHAEL GRUNDY Jeweller • Designer • Goldsmith

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

A beautiful selection of hand crafted and bespoke jewellery designs.

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

www.MichaelGrundyJewellers.com

London Tailored Jacket, £250

Avery Polka Dot Skirt, £175

Anabelle Red Frill Neck Jumper, £150

K R O W

A smart choice for the office, we shopped L.K. Bennett for a capsule collection to take you from 9 to 5 and beyond.

Kayla Suede Ankle Boots, £295

Nin aR icci

IT

Mortimer Pansy Print Tea Dress, £325

Pierre Cotton Blouse, £110

Eleanor Wool Blend Pea Coat, £350

Emma Croc Effect Shoulder Bag, £175

London Tailored Trouser, £165

Fern Suede Pointed Courts, £195

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20% off with code UF11

Baukjen.com *Terms and conditions apply. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. See website for details. Valid until 02/12/2019

FASHION & BEAUTY

CHECK

SAVE Heritage Maxi Coat, £299, Jigsaw

SPLURGE Wool Blend Belted Coat, £645, Brora

SPLURGE Chloé Check Coat, £2,550, Harrods

WRAP

Get your

Coat Be fashion forward in a ‘this season’ coat. With highend style for high street prices, we’ve got winter all wrapped up.

MILITARY

SAVE Clean Belted Wrap Coat, £79, Warehouse

ANIMAL SPLURGE Stand Studio Faux Fur Coat, £300, Harvey Nichols

SAVE Faux Fur Animal Print Coat, £59, M&S SAVE urbancode Teddy Faux Fur Coat, £199, John Lewis

TEDDY

SAVE Anna Military Coat, £150, Monsoon SPLURGE Gucci Wool Blend Coat, £2,900, Net-A-Porter

SPLURGE Cachemire Teddy Bear Coat, £4,390, MaxMara URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 13

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FASHION & BEAUTY

Short Hair

Elie Tahari

Don't Care From blunt bob to pixie crop, lopping off your hair has never been so liberating.

BLUNT BOB The perfect mix of pixie meets bob, this slick style gets top marks from us. Wearing your parting on the side creates balance, complementing all face shapes. Use a gel that keeps your hair in place without producing a stiff, tacky texture.

Tom Ford

A classic blunt bob is perfect for those that aren’t yet ready to go for the full crop. The length can be adjusted to flatter the face, while the bluntness can help thicken thin hair.

Keep it sleek and simple for cool-girl flair.

Short, bold, and daring, the pixie crop puts your facial features at the centre of attention. Rock the trend with a longer section of hair on top pushed up in a pompadour style, or pair with a headband to soften and polish the look.

Fendi

SLEEK STYLE

Fendi

PIXIE CROP Fendi

VINTAGE CURL BUZZ CUT Not for the faint hearted, this style has become increasingly popular among women for its easy upkeep and facial definition. It is a radical cut though, so be prepared to change up your makeup and wardrobe to complement your new badass look.

With short hair, it's all about the details, so temper a short back and sides with a romantic retro S-wave or pin-curl. This elegant look will never go out of style and while possibly too timeconsuming for everyday wear, it's the perfect pick for a girl’s night out.

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 15

WIN!

SKINCARE SET from Charlotte Tilbury You could be the lucky winner of this Charlotte Tilbury Gorgeous Glowing Youth set, worth £98.

Set includes the Multi Miracle Glow cleanser, balm & moisturiser, featured in this month’s “Make Mine A Double” article, a beauty flash Wonderglow face primer and mini Magic Cream moisturiser. Together they create a winning trio.

A make-up artist working in the fashion and beauty industry for over 20 years, Charlotte Tilbury has created an award-winning makeup and skin care brand. Shop the full Charlotte Tilbury UK makeup, skin care and beauty collection, including Magic Cream & Film Star Bronze & Glow at charlottetilbury.com/uk

find us on Facebook and Instagram

TO ENTER:

Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to competitions@theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘Charlotte Tilbury’ in the subject bar. Closing date for entries is Saturday 30 November 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

Make Mine

These double (and triple) duty beauty gems, will save you time and slim down your makeup bag.

A DOUBLE 1. BAREMINERALS BB PRIMER-CREAM, £24 Perfect, protect and prime. This multitasking BB primer-cream diminishes the appearance of discolouration, uneven skin tone and imperfections, while providing SPF 30 protection.

2 1

2. WILD ABOUT BEAUTY EYESHADOW PENCIL DUO, £14.50 Combining a long-lasting eyeliner with a crease-proof crème eyeshadow, this product adds both colour and definition to your eyes with ease, making the day to night transition simple.

3 4

3. LILAH B. VIRTUOUS VEIL, £36.50 Both a concealer and an eyeshadow primer, this is a must-have for anyone who prefers a simple beauty routine. The creamy formula hydrates while minimising the appearance of imperfections.

4. BENEFIT BENETINT, £24.50 This glowing, glossy red liquid adds the perfect sheer flush to cheeks, and a wonderful kiss-proof tint to lips. Loved by celebrities and make-up artists all over the world, it's addictive.

5

6

5. CHARLOTTE TILBURY MULTI-MIRACLE GLOW, £45 We love this 3-in-1 skin remedy: a deep cleansing face balm, a regenerating mask and an SOS remedy that you can use on cuticles, elbows, heels and shins.

6. CLARINS FIX MAKEUP, £24 A light and refreshing mist that instantly moisturizes and soothes the skin, while setting your makeup for a longer-lasting hold. Its invigorating scent provides a continuous sense of wellbeing.

7. MAULI SACRED UNION SCENT & DRY OIL, £69 Apply onto the body immediately after shower to lock in moisture, ruffle through hair to nourish and protect or spray into your bath water and indulge in the sublime stress-reducing fragrance.

7

8

8. RMS LIP2CHEEK, £34 A dual use makeup product Lip2Cheek promotes healthy, sensational looking skin and lips. Easy to apply, it makes skin feel as good as it looks.

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 17

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INVISIBLE HEARING AIDS!

Exclusive Hearing 49c The Parade Oadby Leicester LE2 5BB Freephone 0800 413 132 sales@exclusivehearing.co.uk

www.exclusivehearing.co.uk TENSION & TRAUMA RELEASING EXERCISES Tre (Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercises) is a fantastic self regulating tool A set of simple excercises are used to activate therapeutic tremors in your body, the vibrations help the body to discharge/release stress or tension accumulated from difficult situations, shock or traumatic life experiences.

The tremors help to calm the nervous system leaving you feeling safe, calm and re-energised with a sense of well-being and peacefulness. www.priticoles.co.uk

TRE IS YOU HEALING YOU! Bodyworker, TRE provider & Cranio-Sacral Therapist For more information please call or email me: 07795 361 288 | pritibodies1@gmail.com

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Slow &

STEADY...

We live in a society where we all strive for more - more things, more money, more to do. But the “more” approach is not intake by selecting organic and always the best way, says Rebecca Watts of TheStudios40. grass-fed meat. It may be more Health and fitness is important, but extreme exercise and dieting often leads to burn out and failure. The key to success is maximising your time and efforts.

Remember slow and steady wins the race.

Here’s some examples of where less is often more…

Consistency

Consistency is key to getting results. We usually throw ourselves into a new health and fitness regime, thinking the more we do the better the results. However, this ‘all in’ approach is usually unachievable long term. There’s no point going at it for 2 weeks every 6 months, every time you start a new plan and then do absolutely nothing in between. You’re much better managing your expectations and lowering your efforts in the beginning, to ensure continuity longer term.

For example, go to the gym once a week every week, rather than 5 times a week for just 2 weeks; or keep wine to the weekends, rather than trying to cut it out completely. Once these smaller changes

become habits, you can always increase your efforts then.

Quality

It’s easy to become obsessed with calories, but it’s not a simple case of calorie in v calorie out. The quality of those calories is crucial to your goals.

One person can eat 2500 kcals of less quality food and be lacking in energy with a poor immune system, whereas another person can eat 1500 kcals of good quality food and feel full of energy and healthy.

Thinking about the nutrients in your food is important to your goals, as every nutrient (protein, fats, carbs, vitamins, minerals) has a purpose in your body. Try swapping processed and prepared food for natural food that is more nutrient dense.

For example, organic and grass-fed meat has been shown to have a better nutrient content than grain-fed meat.

So, consider reducing your meat

expensive, but you won’t need to eat as much, and you’ll also be making more environmental choices too. The perfect example of less is more.

Effectiveness

Unless you love to exercise, most people struggle to fit it into their daily schedule. So, make the most of your efforts by working smarter.

For example, 15-30 mins of higher intensity interval training is better for fitness and fat loss than hours of continuous pace cardio. Alternatively, if you’re stretched for time, doing a couple of resistance-based circuits and sessions may be the smarter choice. Resistance circuits help tone, reduce fat and increased your fitness levels too.

This month give it a go. Focus on quality over quantity and see how less really can deliver more.

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 19

thegeorge CHRISTMAS IN THE KIBWORTHS

Trust us to put that extra bit of sparkle into your christmas

OPENING HOURS OVER THE FESTIVE SEASON

BOBOLI

OPEN EVERY DAY FROM 10.00 AM, ONLY CLOSING ON CHRISTMAS DAY, BOXING DAY & NEW YEARS DAY

LIGHTHOUSE

THE LIGHTHOUSE WILL BE OPEN ON MON 23RD AND TUES 24TH DECEMBER. CLOSED ON CHRISTMAS DAY AND BOXING DAY. OPEN ON FRI 27TH AND SAT 28TH DECEMBER. CLOSED ON 29TH & 30TH DECEMBER AND 1ST JANUARY 2020.

THEN OUR USUAL OPENING HOURS FROM TUESDAY TO SATURDAY. There will be New Years Eve celebrations at both restaurants and prior booking is essential!

CONTACT US

Christmas menu now available!

For more information please call us on:

01858 452286

WE LOVE TO HOST PARTIES, SO DO PLEASE CONTACT US IF YOU WOULD LIKE US TO HELP YOU PLAN YOUR CELEBRATIONS:

bobolirestaurant.co.uk 0116 279 3303

lighthousekibworth.co.uk 0116 279 6260

HARBOROUGH ROAD, GREAT OXENDON, LE16 8NA W W W.THEGEO R GEGR E ATOXE N D O N .CO.U K

WINING & DINING

Bake

OFF

Up your oven game and save on the washing up with a family traybake.

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 21

SMOKY BAKED CHICKEN Preparation time: 5 minutes Cooking time: 35 minutes Serves: 4 Ingredients: 300g frozen Cooks’ Ingredients risotto base 400g chicken mini fillets, cubed 350g tub fresh pepperonata sauce 1 tbsp sweet smoked paprika 75g grated cheddar & mozzarella ½ x 160g bag Manomasa manchego & green olive tortillas 2 tbsp chopped parsley

1

2

Preheat the oven to 200°C, gas mark 6. Place the risotto, chicken, sauce, paprika and 100ml hot water in a small ovenproof dish and stir well together. Bake for 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through with no pink meat.

Sprinkle three quarters of the cheese over the chicken then break up the tortilla chips and scatter over. Sprinkle over the remaining cheese and parsley, then bake for a further 5 minutes until the cheese has melted and the tortillas have browned a little at the edges.

CHEESE & BACON GRATIN Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 55 minutes Serves: 4 Ingredients: 8 rashers smoked British back bacon, cut into 1cm wide strips 900g mix of potatoes and sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced 115g pack baby spinach 100g seriously strong extra mature cheddar, grated 1 bunch salad onions, thinly sliced 200ml reduced fat crème fraîche 100ml vegetable stock 1 tsp English mustard 4 tbsp breadcrumbs 2 tbsp pumpkin seeds

Images and recipes: Waitrose

1

Preheat the oven to 200°C, gas mark 6. Cook the bacon in a frying pan for 5 minutes until starting to crisp.

2

Layer up a third of the potatoes and spinach in a medium-sized ovenproof dish. Scatter some cheese, cooked bacon and salad onions on top. Continue to layer up the ingredients, setting aside a handful of cheese for the top.

3

Whisk together the crème fraîche, stock and mustard and pour over the layered gratin, then scatter over the reserved cheese and a good grinding of black pepper. Bake for 50 minutes until cooked through and golden brown, covering with foil towards the end if the top starts to get brown.

About 10 minutes before the end of baking, scatter over the breadcrumbs and pumpkin seeds. Serve warm.

WINING & DINING

BEEF & MUSHROOM LASAGNE Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 45 minutes Serves: 4 Ingredients: Butter for greasing 2 tbsp olive oil 275g pack portabella mushrooms, sliced 1 onion, finely chopped 1 carrot, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, crushed 400g pack Aberdeen angus beef mince 500g passata 1 x 28g Knorr beef stock pot 300g pack fresh lasagne sheets 350g tub fresh four cheese sauce 1 tbsp grated Parmigiano Reggiano

1

Preheat the oven to 190°C, gas mark 5 and butter a medium-sized baking dish. Heat 1 tbsp of the oil in a large frying pan over a medium heat.

Add the mushrooms and fry for 3-4 minutes, then remove from the pan and set aside. Add the remaining oil to the pan and fry the onion and carrot for 3-4 minutes, then add the crushed garlic and fry for another minute.

2

Add the beef mince, stirring over a medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes until browned, then add the passata and stir through the Knorr stock pot.

3

Cover the bottom of the baking dish with a single layer of lasagne sheets.

Spoon on a layer of meat sauce, then a layer of four cheese sauce and scatter over some mushrooms. Arrange a layer of lasagne sheets on top of the mixture and repeat the layers to the top of the dish, finishing with a layer of lasagne sheets topped with the remaining cheese sauce and a sprinkling of Parmigiano Reggiano.

4

Bake for 30-35 minutes. Cover with foil towards the end, once the top is golden brown. Allow to stand for a few minutes before serving.

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 23

BESPOKE KITCHENS FROM £10,000 SPEND £15,000+ and get a free NEFF integrated dishwasher worth £500.00 SPEND £30,000+ and add a free QUOOKER boiling water tap worth £1,150.00

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OUR LEICESTERSHOWROOM IS LOCATED AT 98 GRANBY STREET, LEICESTER LE1 1DU

Recipes & Images: Waitrose

WINING & DINING

Soup's UP

Make light work of your evening meal with a satisfying soup supper.

ITALIAN KALE AND CANNELLINI SOUP Makes: 4 Ingredients: 2 x 400g can chopped Italian tomatoes with olive oil & garlic 150g savoy cabbage, washed and shredded 150g kale 400g can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed 4 slices ciabatta 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 clove garlic, halved 4 large free range eggs Method: Put the tomatoes in a large saucepan and add 1½ cans of boiling water. Bring to the boil and add the cabbage, then

simmer for 5 minutes. Add the kale and beans and cook for a further 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, brush the ciabatta with 1 tbsp of the oil and toast on a hot griddle pan (or under a hot grill) for 1–2 minutes each side until browned. Rub each side of the ciabatta with the garlic clove.

Bring a pan of water to the boil and crack the eggs into it. Poach for 2 minutes until the whites are set. Meanwhile, spoon the soup into four serving bowls. Remove each egg from the pan with a slotted spoon and place on top of the ciabatta. Sit the egg-topped toast into the soup bowls, drizzle over the remaining oil and serve.

CAULIFLOWER SOUP & CHEESE TWIRLS Makes: 4 Ingredients: 1 cauliflower, base trimmed & core discarded 20g unsalted butter 2 large echalion shallots, sliced 2 garlic cloves, sliced 200ml whole milk, plus extra for thinning 500ml fresh chicken (or vegetable) stock 1 tsp olive oil ¼ tsp lemon juice Cheese Twirls: 220g frozen pizza dough, defrosted 50g Gruyère, grated ½ tsp poppy seeds ½ tsp finely chopped rosemary Method: Preheat the oven to 200°C, gas mark 6. Discard any large outer leaves from the cauliflower, but keep the smaller, tender ones. Cut the cauliflower into florets, then roughly slice. Heat the butter in a medium pan.

Add most of the cauliflower (set aside a handful along with the tender leaves), the shallots, garlic and a good pinch of salt, turning in the butter. Cover, fry gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, then uncover and cook for another 5 minutes until just taking on colour.

Pour in the milk and simmer gently for 5 minutes, then add the stock and simmer for another 5 minutes.

Toss the reserved leaves and sliced florets with the oil and arrange on a roasting tray. For the cheese twirls, roll out the defrosted pizza dough to roughly 25cm x 20cm. Scatter with the cheese, poppy seeds and rosemary, and roll up from one of the shorter ends. Cut into 12 pieces with a serrated knife, then arrange on a baking tray, pressing down slightly. Bake the cauliflower for 10 minutes and the twirls for 15 minutes.

Blend the soup with the lemon juice until smooth, adding more milk to loosen. Reheat the soup, ladle into bowls and scatter with the roasted cauliflower.

Serve with the twirls.

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 25

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FURNITURE LO F T SINCE 1964

Fusion Range

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HOMES & GARDENS

Hot

SEAT

A timeless style staple, it’s time to snuggle up.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

1 Cabana Yeti Chair, £2,425, Heal’s 2 Munna Cutie Armchair, £2,077, Houselogy 3 Arctander Chair, £5,334, Skandium 4 NORR11 Elephant Lounge Chair, £1,999, Houseology 5 The Tired Man Armchair, £5,147, RoyalDesign.co.uk 6 Cave Sheepskin Chair, £2,065, Barker and Stonehouse 7 Editor’s Pick: spacious yet comforting Fried Egg Lounge Chair, £4,123, Nest 8 Ziggy Chair, £1,299, Heal’s 9 Vitra Organic Chair, £3,550, Nest URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 27

Harborough Lights Lighting Design Consultancy

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URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 29

Image: Next

SCANDUSTRIAL

STYLE Sleek and simple, this clever clashing of materials will give your home instant personality.

HOMES & GARDENS Reno Knitted Throw, £45, Made.com

Nolan Seagrass Basket, £55, Habitat

Agra Side Table, £225, Next Industrial Wall Mirror, £59.99, The Farthing

African Vases, from £53.75, The Taylor Newgate Brick Lane Alarm Clock, £22, Amara

Venice Natural Cushion, £60, Bronte By Moon

Metal Table Lamp, £49, Cult Furniture

Napper Bed, £845, Loaf

Moda Aviator Armchair, £159, Cult Furniture

Bloomsbury Rug, £495, Habitat

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 31

CREATING BEAUTIFUL SPACES

KITCHENS

●

FLOORING

●

FURNITURE

OADBYHOUSE.COM NOW OPEN AT 91 THE PARADE, OADBY, LEICESTER LE2 5BB

Images: Garden Trading

HOMES & GARDENS

Space

SAVERS Make limited space work in your favour, with these savvy storage solutions.

FEET FIRST

Ensure your hallway or boot room is kept mud and clutter free, with suitable storage for shoes, coats and umbrellas. Even if you only have space for a simple streamlined rack, you’ll keep your floors clean and your footwear tidy until your next outing.

COUNTER MOVE

Keep your counter-space mess-free by storing and organising your cleaning essentials in practical airtight containers. Place neatly in a cupboard or style on rustic open shelving. We love these galvanised steel tins with useful printed labels.

WORKING IT

No room for a home office or place for children to get on with their homework, a stylish desk ladder is the ideal choice. It’s perfect for setting up a laptop, storing books, stationery and other work essentials.

GREEN FINGERS TOY TAMER

Keeping toys hidden away in children's rooms sounds ideal but isn't realistic. Tidy up at the end of the day with a functional yet fashionable storage basket. Choose a fabric that will add texture to whichever room it’s in.

Make the most of a small garden or compact courtyard with your own storage and planting sanctuary. From drawers, to hooks and shelves, there’s a home for everything. Opt for high quality materials that are both weatherproof and durable.

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 33

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& Mind OF EVERY HOME

Treat yourself to luxury.

Bathroom & kitchen

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URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 35

!

N I W

STORAGE BASKETS

by Made.com

You may have cupboards. You may have shelves.

But never underestimate the benefits of additional storage. Especially in the form of these three utility baskets from Made.com. Suitable for any room and made from thick felt with a hidden metal hoop, they’re super durable too.

Thoughtfully designed, Made.com collections are created to outlive trends and evolve with your changing style. Discover their full range of furniture and homeware at made.com or see (and touch) for yourself at their Birmingham Mailbox showroom.

TO ENTER:

Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to competitions@theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘Made’ in the subject bar. Closing date for entries is Saturday 30 November 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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URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 37

Sell your

C L A RE N DO N PARK, STON E YG A T E O R SOUTH KN I GHT O N property with Oliver Rayns

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HOMES & GARDENS

Down

SIZE Suffering from empty nest, overwhelmed by maintenance costs, or going it alone after a divorce, there are many reasons why homeowners are taking the decision to downsize.

4

Downsizing to a smaller home is likely to mean less upkeep and lower bills. Utility and insurance costs should decrease, and your outlay on maintenance should also come down. You may find you no longer need a cleaner or alternatively can afford for them to come more frequently.

8

It’s never too early to start decluttering. Walk around your home making a list of the things you can’t live without.

Anything that doesn’t make the list is potentially expendable.

Next whittle down excessive duplications. How many mugs do you actually need?

5

Pick a property that works for you.

For example, if you’re downsizing later in life, choose a home that will be better suited to your needs as you get older. Do you really want to contend with a spiral staircase?

And don’t forget to factor in accessibility issues.

9

6

Be practical about what you keep.

Moving to a flat, you won’t need a lawn mower. And if you’re moving from a five-bed to two-bed property, you can get rid of extra beds, mattresses, sheets etc.

Make money to spruce up your new home, by selling unwanted items on eBay or Gumtree.

Decide upfront what is nonnegotiable. Is outside space, however small, essential? If you work from home, is there a dedicated work area? Or will lack of storage or a separate bath and shower be the deal breaker for you?

Here’s 10 things to consider before you make the move…

1

2

3

Research where you want to live and what type of property you want. Do you desire to escape to a cottage in the country, or experience loft living in the city?

Also consider whether you want to be near friends and family or strike out on your own.

If you’ve been in your current home a while, it’s likely to have increased in value, and you may even be near to paying off your mortgage. Depending on the price differential between your current and new property, this could leave you with enough equity to fund or even upgrade your lifestyle.

Having equity may also mean you can buy your new property as a cash buyer. This could give you more options such as a quicker chain, a discount on the sale price, and of course the ability to live mortgage free.

7

Once you’ve settled on a property, draw up a floor plan so you can see what will fit in each room without it being too cluttered. Measuring your existing furniture will give you an idea of what you can take with you and what you’ll need to leave behind.

your paperwork and be 10 Purge ruthlessly selective about which documents you keep. Don’t keep bank statements you can access online or warranties for appliances you no longer own.

This can be a huge job, so you might want to get started now.

Ultimately moving to a smaller property will enable you to save time, money and space, taking control of your possessions and learning to live life to the fullest with less.

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 39

Creative, inspiring ceramic tile ideas for throughout your home!

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URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 41

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URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 43

Meet our Wills and Probate Team

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FASHION & BEAUTY

Me,

Myself & I Do you find yourself watching from the sidelines as less able, but more vocal colleagues are promoted above you?

With Bill Gates and Andrea Jung, both describing themselves as introverts, being the strong silent type might not be such a bad thing.

The word “introvert” is often inaccurately used to describe someone that is shy.

Although some introverts are shy, so in fact are some extroverts. Susan Cain author of QUIET: The Power of Introverts in a World That Won’t Stop Talking instead defines introverts as people of “contemplation”. They are sensitive, introspective, modest and calm and spend a lot of time thinking and reflecting. They can enjoy social events, but also relish periods of solitude.

Introverts work best alone, in quiet places, as they are easily overstimulated by surrounding noise and activity.

Ringing phones, email alerts and the need to attend endless meetings can all be highly disruptive. In fact research suggests that when interrupted at work it can take an average of 25 minutes to refocus on whatever you were working on, so you can only imagine the impact of an open-plan office on an introvert.

At the other end of the spectrum, extroverts are people of “action.” They are energised by contact with others,

are sociable, passionate but lighthearted. Unlike introverts, extroverts can tolerate higher noise levels and work well collaboratively.

Most teams benefit from a mix of both personalities. My husband and I run our own business, and while he, an extrovert, effectively runs the customer facing side of our operation, the introvert in me is happy to work quietly behind the scenes. The success of our business is due to our playing to our individual strengths, so I have never seen being an introvert as a personal flaw or professional obstacle.

Here’s my tips to help you fellow introverts out there, thrive in the workplace:

1.

If you have something important to do, shut the office door. If you’re in a dreaded open-plan scenario wear earphones to help cancel out external noise. If it’s an option, work from home.

2. Let your team know if you prefer a certain type of communication i.e. email over phone and switch off the ringer / alerts if you need time to focus on completing a task.

3. Schedule regular team meetings to limit the need for impromptu

Source: QUIET: The Power of Introverts in a World That Won’t Stop Talking, by Susan Cain

ones. Meeting requests always come at the least convenient time and can throw you off task for the rest of the day.

4. Let your personality trait influence

your career choice. Graphic design, writing, computer programming and accountancy are all good options for those who like minimal interaction.

5. While your louder colleagues might

get more airplay, do contribute when you have something important to say. Be the one to ask those poignant questions.

6. Introverts are observant and will often view things from a different angle, catching the attention of the boss.

Still unconvinced? In a previous job I applied for a leadership role which involved a gruelling selection process.

After endless individual assessments, it was the group task that was the most enlightening. Watching everyone clamour to be the most vocal, I sat back and listened, before offering a single observation a few minutes before the end. I got the job! So, unlock your potential and make introversion your superpower.

“In a gentle way, you can shake the world” - Mahatma Gandhi URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 45

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SMARTER

Not Harder Ever wondered how to do less and achieve more?

Work smarter, not harder, to deliver your best at work.

Here’s what to do less of to achieve more…

CHECKING EMAILS

competitiveness destroys team spirit.

Find a good balance, that way you can progress without colleagues resenting or mistrusting you.

Do your colleagues expect you to respond to their e-mails immediately?

Checking your inbox too regularly will draw your attention away from work that is more important. Instead schedule pockets of time in the day to check your e-mail. For anything urgent, colleagues should pick up the phone.

JUGGLING TASKS

SAYING “YES’”

DRINKING COFFEE

No-one wants to be the Cruella De Vil of the office but you don’t have to say “yes” to everything. Consider tracking everything you’re asked to do, the time it takes to complete each task, and the results. Then assess your list to see what was/wasn’t worth your time. Think carefully next time.

BEING COMPETITIVE

Competition can be positive, and most of us want to get up that career ladder, but studies have shown that over 50% of workers believe that

Reducing multi-tasking can have enormous benefits on your productivity.

Cut your to-do list to top 5 priorities and do the top priority first thing in the morning before you get waylaid by phone calls and meetings. Flag this time as ‘busy’ in your calendar and use electronic reminders to stay on task.

Caffeine is a short-term stimulant, so drink it strategically. Have a cup when you need the energy not just out of habit. Drinking too much coffee can make you agitated, shake and feel generally unwell. Avoid the ultimate crash by drinking responsibly!

SKIPPING LUNCH

If you think grabbing a sandwich to eat at your desk is a good use of time, think again! Use this time instead to eat and network with colleagues. It’s a great

investment because you can discuss new projects, ask for help and advice or share problem-solving tips for those difficult challenges.

BEING MEAN

At best gossip is trivial, at worst toxic. When you and colleagues start wasting time gossiping, you can expect both productivity and morale to drop. In fact, studies have shown that a whopping 90% of office conversation is gossip. Think of all those positive opportunities that have been wasted.

WORKING OVERTIME

Working long hours over an extended period can make you tired and prone to making mistakes and bad decisions.

Separating your work and home life is good for both the brain and spirit. What’s more we often find the solutions we’re looking for when we’re not actively searching for them.

SEEKING PERFECTION

Being a perfectionist may seem like a great thing but it’s not without its issues. Perfectionists often spend more time than required on tasks; they procrastinate and often miss the big picture while focusing on the small things. So, if you’re a perfectionist try to learn to let the small things slide.

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 47

The RENÉE-

SSAINCE Often portrayed as the breathy and sometimes bumbling female lead, Renée Zellweger’s latest project is a potential career highlight – the scene-stealing product of a step away from Hollywood that saw her come back more fearless and driven than ever…

LIFE & WORK

If early signs are to prove true, come awards season Renée Zellweger could well be in the frame to add another iconic golden statuette to her collection.

A seasoned cinematic pro and Oscar-winner by virtue of her performance in 2003 epic Cold Mountain, Zellweger’s latest project – a lavish-looking biopic of Hollywood legend Judy Garland – proved a notable challenge even for this seasoned veteran of the silver screen.

“I tried not to think too much about how adored Judy is, and has been, through the generations and how she is an icon for the ages,” Zellweger laughs. “I tried to take that off the table and instead to look at the film as an exploration of the human experience on the other side of stardom. Otherwise I would have just run away! I let myself be propelled by curiosity and admiration instead.”

Of course, to play one of the industry’s most well-loved actresses would in itself be no small feat, but in order to truly capture Garland, Zellweger also needed to emulate the famous songs that typified the former’s glittering career. Though no stranger to vocal performances herself – her work in Chicago earned her an Oscar nod, after all – Zellweger’s set-list this time around was defined by the 1939 classic The Wizard of Oz set piece showstopper, ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’.

“It touched me very deeply,” Zellweger recalls of her first time replicating Garland’s most famous on-screen song. “It was the end of the live performance sequences that I had been sharing all week with the 300 actors who were playing the audience. It was the final moment of celebration that was shared between us and all of our affection and admiration for

Judy felt very alive at the moment.

You find yourself thinking of what that song meant to her at that time in her life and the nostalgia we all feel about it changes form as we go through our lives.”

I've figured out how to bring the peace I have in my personal life into my professional life.

Though the weight of expectations would prove heavy for any actress, Zellweger was in some ways perhaps best placed in her field to shoulder such a burden. Irrespective of her penchant for playing the soft-spoken leading lady, there has always been a hint of steel to the star beneath the blonde hair and baby-face.

This desire to do things her own way was highlighted to no small regard by her six-year-long selfimposed exile from Hollywood from 2008 to 2015 owing to a slew of badly received films and associated acting fatigue.

"I was bored with myself after 25 years of living other peoples' lives and I needed to grow as a person,” she nods. "It was important, that time. You’re not in people’s consciousness anymore, so they don’t immediately make the connection. It’s a quieter life, and I love it."

There’s no denying it took real strength of character for Zellweger to step away from an industry that was – and still is – notoriously throwaway when it comes to female stars over forty. The strength of Zellweger’s return to the screen, beginning with the comforting familiarity of a third Bridget Jones flick and potentially culminating in a second Academy Award showing next year for Judy, put paid to any rumours that she would be retiring

from Hollywood for good.

“I never once thought I’d never do it again because I love acting; it’s my bliss,” she enthuses. “I appreciate it differently now because I’ve figured out how to bring the peace I have in my personal life into my professional life. It’s not the same chaos, because I’ve learnt what I can take on and when it’s too much.”

Such a mindset could be called upon when it came to take the lead in Judy, for Zellweger’s hiatus was preceded by harsh critical treatment and intense tabloid speculation seemingly dogging her every step on the red carpet and beyond.

"I think one of the wonderful things about telling this story about this stage of her life is that it shows it was not completely tragic," she says. "She was hopeful, and she got so much joy out of connecting with her audience and performing. She never gave up. Never.

I’m sad to say that I took her for granted. Of course she was extraordinary and deserved that place in history she carved out for herself among the greatest of all time, but it wasn’t until we did this film that I properly came to appreciate how truly extraordinary she was by learning about the circumstances she was dealing with in that third chapter in her life.”

If Judy does indeed translate its early acclaim into industry awards, then it will surely be like Zellweger never left. With the Hollywood she returned to having been a far different and more welcoming space for women like herself, there’s plenty time for her to deliver some career-defining performances as she enters her fifties – and if Zellweger has so far proved one thing, it’s that this time she’s prepared for anything the industry has to throw at her.

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 49

ley & The Angel Fair Burgh

Thursday – Sunday 28 November – 1December 9.30am to 4pm (3pm on Sunday)

FREE ADMISSION Car Parking £10

www.burghley.co.uk

LUXURY GIFTS

FINE FOOD MARKET

OVER 100 EXHIBITORS

ArtisanChristmas Fair

A refreshing, unique shopping day just in time for Christmas SUNDAY 17TH NOVEMBER 2019 11am – 4pm at Stamford Court, Manor Road, Leicester LE2 2LH Proud to support

ENTRANCE: £3 www.theverything.co.uk Carol Askew: 07929 037 139 discover@theverything.co.uk

Book

SHELF For times when less is most definitely more.

The Joy of Missing Out

by Tonya Dalton Overwhelmed. Too many women are swamped and exhausted by all they strive to do, ending most days feeling unsatisfied and unsuccessful.

In her highly anticipated first book, Tonya Dalton inspires women to reject the pressure to do more, be more, and achieve more. She shows them how to focus on what's important to them, as living a life centred around their priorities, results in more satisfaction and success, both at work and at home.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

One Pot Wonders

by Meera Sodha From the Nation's favourite cooking duo comes a recipe collection celebrating the simple joys of one pot cooking.

Life is complicated enough so why not let the Hairy Bikers, make it just that bit easier?

Whether it's inspiration for supper after a hard day's work or a slow roast feast for a weekend gathering, One Pot Wonders has it all. From rich and warming tray bakes to light but satisfying salads, these triple-tested recipes dial back the effort but deliver on flavour.

The Joyful Frugalista

by Serina Bird Once upon a time, thrift and frugality were celebrated as virtues - not anymore. When did 'frugal' become such a dirty word? It's time to reclaim it! The Joyful Frugalista is the essential handbook to living frugally, mindfully and with real joy on any budget.

Serina Bird shares myriad practical tips for saving money in small ways every day for a better, brighter future. Who knew frugality could be so much fun?

Minimalism

by Ingrid Bjรถrk A practical guide to decluttering, Minimalism will help you downsize your life and replace the mindless stuff with time, experiences and meaningful relationships. From applying a minimalist approach to your finances, travel, communications, wardrobe and much more, Ingrid Bjรถrk shows you how to gain more time, space and energy to be there for the people, events, and experiences that truly matter in your life.

Simple Happy Parenting

by Denaye Barahona Denaye Barahona provides a revolutionary approach to parenting, full of practical tips to help you step back from the system overload so common in modern family life and, instead, create more time to enjoy living and learning together. From easier meal planning to mindful shopping, worry batching to waste reduction, Simple Happy Parenting is an honest and practical roadmap for all families striving for balance.

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 51

The Gesualdo Six – There is No Rose Festive choral music

by Tallis, Byrd, Pärt, Taverner and more.

Saturday 30 November, 7:30pm Uppingham School Chapel

Full Price £20 Concession £15 Under 18s £5

01572 820820 www.ticketsource.co.uk/uppinghamschool In person at Uppingham Sports and Books

!

N I W

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK TICKETS at Loughborough Town Hall

This month you could be the lucky winner of one of two family tickets to see Jack and The Beanstalk at Loughborough Town Hall between 23 November 2019 and 5 January 2020.

Fee Fi Fo Fum…Loughborough Town Hall is in for some fun... Dame Trott and her family have been selling ice creams at the annual Luffbra fair for as long as anyone can remember. But when the ginormous giant puts the rent up, the family are forced to sell their beloved cow Pat for just a handful of beans.

The team behind the 2018 five star smash-hit Beauty

and the Beast are back with the BIGGEST panto of them all with marvellous moosic, cow-ntless costumes and an udderly ridiculous dame with giant-sized jokes!

For full show information call 01509 231 914 or visit loughboroughtownhall.co.uk to book tickets.

TO ENTER:

Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to competitions@theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘Jack and The Beanstalk’ in the subject bar. Closing date for entries is Friday 15 November 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. Tickets are non-transferable and cannot be redeemed as part of any other offer. Tickets can only be redeemed on selected dates, to be confirmed with the winners. The competition may be withdrawn at any time.

WHAT’S ON

Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers, 12 Nov, Loughborough Town Hall

NOVEMBER 2019

The Royal Ballet

Sargy Mann Exhibition

From The Royal Ballet's classical origins in the works of Marius Petipa, to the homegrown choreographers who put British ballet on the world stage, this mixed programme highlights the versatility of the Company.

Petipa's Raymonda Act III is Russian classical ballet summarized in one act, full of sparkle and precise technique, while Ashton's Enigma Variations is quintessentially British in every way - from its score by Elgar and period designs by Julia Trevelyan Oman, to Ashton's signature style, the essence of British ballet.

Concerto, MacMillan's fusion of classical technique with a contemporary mind, completes a programme that shows the breadth of The Royal Ballet's heritage.

Sargy Mann (29 May 1937 – 5 April 2015) was a British landscape and figurative painter. He was acclaimed as a colourist and his diverse works are recognisable by their rich colour palette, distinct composition and a desire to capture a sense of light and space. Affected by failing vision from the age of 36, Mann was compelled to find new ways of seeing and working - this creative liberation produced a celebrated body of work that continued after his total loss of sight in 2005. This exhibition, is the largest public showing of Mann’s work to date and draws from all periods of his career.

Tue 5 Nov Cinema De Lux Tickets from £13.90 showcasecinemas.co.uk

The Royal Ballet, 5 Nov, Cinema De Lux

9 Nov – 23 Feb Attenborough Arts Centre Free Entry Attenborougharts.com

Jools Holland, 28 Nov, De Montfort Hall

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof Mon 11 – Sat 16 Nov The Little Theatre Tickets from £14.50 thelittletheatre.net

One of the most exciting works of the 20th century, and the playwright’s personal favourite, the play won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1955. Set in the wealthy plantation home of Big Daddy and his family, this play focuses on the marriage of Brick, the ‘favoured’ son, and Brick’s beautiful, but desperately frustrated wife, Maggie, the ‘Cat’ of the title. Brick has distanced himself from the world with a screen of liquor, and Maggie strives to break through to find him again. This mesmerising play shows the destructive power of lies, and how families will avoid telling the truth in order to maintain a semblance of harmony and position.

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 53

Manual Harlan

Present Laughter, 28 Nov, Phoenix Arts

Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers

Tue 12 Nov Loughborough Town Hall Tickets from £15.50 loughboroughtownhall.co.uk The UK’s original touring Taiko Tribe returns to the road with a brand new show of skill, stamina & red-hot rhythms to stir your soul! As Mugenkyo approach their 25th year as Europe’s longest established taiko organisation, they celebrate the growth of their Tribe of performers from across the globe, with the latest captivating performance of sharp synchronisation, dramatic choreography and sumptuous soundscapes, all wrapped up in a breathtaking display of high energy and powerful rhythms on huge taiko drums.

The Scarecrow’s Wedding Tue 12 – Wed 13 Nov Stamford Corn Exchange Tickets from £13 stamfordcornexchange.co.uk

The team behind Stick Man present the best wedding ever. Betty O’Barley and Harry Vir Das, 17 Nov, Curve

O’Hay are excellent scarecrows. Their wedding plans are all coming together until Harry leaves Betty’s side and the devilishly smooth Reginald Rake tries to take Harry’s place. Will Harry make it back in time to save their special day?

This heart-warming and award-winning adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s bestselling book is bursting at the seams with Scamp Theatre’s inimitable style. This epic love story promises wit, drama and wedding bells!

Packed with live music and laughter, this is one hour’s magic that you and your children will never forget!

Griff Rhys Jones Sat 16 Nov Melton Theatre Tickets £20 meltontheatre.co.uk

Griff is back touring the UK this autumn with his brand new full-length stand-up show All Over the Place. Following sellout performances of his previous oneman entertainments Jones and Smith and Where Was I? it’s time to join one half of Smith & Jones, one quarter of Not the Nine O’Clock News and one third of Three Men In a Boat as he presents an evening of hilarious true stories, riffs, observations and details of his recent medical procedures. It’s all guaranteed to be packed with wicked insights into the pains of celebrity, the vicissitudes of parenthood and encounters with the great, the good and even the royal.

Vir Das

Sun 17 Nov Curve Theatre Tickets £18 curveonline.co.uk Top Indian comedian and Netflix superstar Vir Das returns to the UK for

an exclusive run of his hit international tour show Loved. Following acclaimed Netflix specials Abroad Understanding and Losing It, Vir seeks to discover what it truly takes to love. In a world of friends, partners, parents, God, fellow man… and iphones, it’s not that straight forward.

They say before you can learn to love someone else, you have to learn to love yourself. Here’s a comedy show for those who are on the fence.

Jools Holland Thu 28 Nov De Montfort Hall Tickets from £31.50 demontforthall.co.uk

Musical virtuoso Jools Holland and his distinguished Rhythm and Blues Orchestra have announced dates and special guests for their wellrenowned autumn/winter UK tour for 2019. Accompanying Jools and the Rhythm and Blues Orchestra will be the supremely talented soul/ jazz singers Ruby Turner and Louise Marshall, as well as original Squeeze member and powerhouse Gilson Lavis on drums. Additional special guests will include Pauline Black and Arthur 'Gaps' Hendrickson from the legendary ska band ‘The Selecter’.

With a tremendous collection of Jools tunes and other boogiewoogie classics to choose from, it’s set to be an unforgettable night out.

Present Laughter Thu 28 Nov Phoenix Arts Tickets from £12 tickets.phoenix.org.uk

Matthew Warchus directs Andrew Scott (Sherlock, Fleabag) in Noël Coward’s provocative comedy Present Laughter. As he prepares to embark on an overseas tour, star actor Garry Essendine’s colourful life is in danger of spiralling out of control. Engulfed by an escalating identity crisis as his many and various relationships compete for his attention, Garry’s few remaining days at home are a chaotic whirlwind of love, sex, panic and soul-searching.

Captured live from The Old Vic in London, Present Laughter is a giddy and surprisingly modern reflection on fame, desire and loneliness.

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 55

INTRODUCING

RE TREAT S

Laid-back luxury holiday retreats in Norfolk BAREFOOT RETREATS is passionate about marketing luxury holiday properties that are individual and unique, from cottage hideaways, to beautiful boltholes, coastal gems and rural retreats.

AS OUR GUESTS you will have the keys to some

of the most beautiful and individual homes in Norfolk; providing a distinct laid-back luxury holiday experience ensuring you feel at home from the moment you arrive, until you return the keys. You’ll have access to our exclusive concierge service, ideal if you’re organising a special celebration or want to experience something different on your holiday. And once you’ve chosen your property, you’ll receive a Barefoot guide ensuring you have all the information you could need to enjoy your precious time away.

Luxury properties

Amazing places

If you’re looking for a wonderful holiday experience or are considering marketing your home and are seeking a fresh and innovative approach, please call us on 01485 512245 or visit our website www.barefootretreats.co.uk.

Unique experiences Barefoot Norfolk Ltd T/A Barefoot Retreats, The Boardwalk, High Street, Thornham, Norfolk, PE36 6LX 01485 512245 • enquiries@barefootretreats.co.uk • www.barefootretreats.co.uk

Joules

WINTER

BREAKS Your summer break may be a distant memory but rekindle that holiday feeling with a day trip or weekend away. Kirsty France shares her top destinations to transform those winter days into happy stays.

Day trips

When the kids are at school the weekends often fill up with their activities, homework and seemingly endless birthday parties. When your free time together is limited, it’s time to get creative and find some new days out. That can get tricky when you’ve explored every theme park, adventure playground and child-friendly museum in your area, but there are still great days out to be had.

We loved the family tour at Bolsover Castle and there’s a playground so the kids can let off steam while you have a cuppa. Head towards Birmingham for Cadbury World or Sherwood to find adventures for all ages at Go Ape.

Now that my two have discovered Horrible Histories I’m eyeing up a trip to Tudor World in Stratford where they can get hands on and have a guided tour with Shakespeare.

Weekend break

If you find yourself with a weekend free, there are lots of places to escape to, that are only a couple of hours away. Head off on Friday evening and you could be in a new city or eating chips on the beach before bedtime. My kids love a day on the beach and there are some stunners in Lincolnshire. Head to Skegness for some old school seaside fun (but be warned – its extra breezy all year round).

Alternatively, if you fancy a child friendly city break, you’re spoilt for choice in London, but for adventures closer to home head to Birmingham.

As well as Cadbury World you can visit the Sea Life Centre and Legoland Discovery Centre. Visit while the Christmas market’s on and you can do some Christmas shopping and warm up with hot

chocolate. You might even start to feel good about winter!

Two’s Company

Are you dreaming of a winter getaway with your other half but only have a weekend free? I can’t guarantee you’ll see sunshine but there are some gorgeous places you can explore, just the two of you. Fly off to Amsterdam and you can enjoy a romantic bike ride, go on a river cruise and see beautiful works of art at the Rijksmuseum.

"If you find yourself with a weekend free there are lots of places to escape to that are only a couple of hours away."

If you’d prefer to get out of the city, head to Jersey. The island is famed for its seafood and you can wrap up warm for a stroll on the beach all year round. There’s a huge range of activities, from historical tours to boat trips and high rope adventures. You can visit a castle then chill out in a luxury spa. The scenery is stunning and there’s something for everyone.

Whatever you do this winter, I hope you have fun.

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Fashion fav

Zara

MY WAY

Best for beauty

Roxanne Hodson “I feel rewarded knowing that I’ve helped other women find a positive work-life balance”, says Roxanne Hodson, Director of The Little Sensory Co. I was born and brought up in Leicester. I enjoyed school and while my teachers would probably have described me as a “talkative allrounder”, my greatest loves were art and sport.

After leaving school I attended college to study interior design but later decided to change direction, undertaking a BTEC in sports and exercise, before going on to Loughborough University to do a degree in Sports Management. During my degree I qualified as a personal trainer and sports masseuse and also had an opportunity to work as a children’s sports coach.

When I left university, I decided I wanted to become a PE teacher and was accepted on a direct placement, where I trained in a school.

Unfortunately, this wasn’t the right path for me, so instead continued my work as a personal trainer.

In 2014, I became pregnant with my first child Noah and 7 months after he was born, I became pregnant again with my second child River. I wanted to return to work but was looking for a job that would enable me to earn an income, as well as spend as much time as I could with my young family.

I’d attended various baby classes and thought there was a space in the market for something different.

My idea was to offer a more sensory experience for children. With the support and encouragement of my partner Kirk, in 2016 I started the “Little Glow Sensory Room”, a multisensory experience set in a calm, quiet and relaxing area. Initially I wasn’t confident of its success, but it was a sell-out from the very first session.

Later that year I decided to invest the money I’d made into setting up “Little Mess”, which allowed little ones to have gloriously splatty, squelchy, squishy, messy fun. I started small with a messy Christmas event, and soon was offering weekly classes as well as weekend events.

Always looking for new opportunities, the following year I trained in baby massage and yoga and shortly after “Little Massage” and “Little Yoga” were added to my portfolio of classes.

Now operating under 4 separate banners, it felt like the right time for a name change, so in 2017 I rebranded under the umbrella name of “The Little Sensory Co”.

Although things were going well, having two young children and

Lush Angels on Bare Skin Home Style

John Lewis

On the box

Peaky Blinders Fun in the sun

Italy

Fab food

Italian

Guilty pleasure

Chocolate

Relaxation vibe

In the bath with my kindle

running all four classes, I felt like I needed some help. I looked into the idea of franchising, and after dipping a toe with “Little Mess Leicester”, I now have 16 leaders across the UK and Ireland offering a combination of different classes.

Running a franchise has allowed these mums to return to work, as they’re able to manage it around their family life. I love helping others achieve what they thought was impossible. My role now centres around ensuring that those running Little Sensory franchises have the support and guidance they need to make their business a success.

I feel rewarded knowing that I’ve helped other women find a positive work-life balance.

For more information about The Little Sensory Company visit thelittlesensory.co

Wingates Gallery Market Harborough & Leicester 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.

44a St Mary’s Road, Market Harborough LE16 7DU. Tel: 01858 465455 27 Loseby Lane, Leicester LE1 5DR. Tel: 0116 253 8484 www.wingatesgallery.co.uk

URBAN FOX NOVEMBER 2019 59

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