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September 2014
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AW Collection Handbags
SIXTIES REVIVAL Swing into the new season
To
for life
Learn your way to happiness
Best of
BRITISH
In the kitchen with Mary Berry
BOLDLYgo Be bold, be bright, be beautiful
Skills
GENDER GAP
Backstage PASS
Behind the scenes at LFW
Bringing the right people and the right properties together.
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Achieving the best result is about bringing the right people and right property together. Fothergill Wyatt achieve this by talking to our clients, gaining a detailed knowledge of their properties, and taking time to understand the needs of those looking to buy or let.
We have access to the most active buyers and tenants in the market, and we ensure they are the first to see the best properties available, whether on the open market or through discrete marketing. Put simply, the service we deliver to sellers, buyers, landlords and tenants is the difference between “I like it” and “I’ll take it”.
To experience the difference, and to arrange a free market appraisal, call us on 0116 2705 900
Hello
As the new season looks The schools are back andhit sothe arehigh we! street, Grab alocal boutiques stores; coffee, putand youronline feet up and there’s indulgeno inbetter this time to celebrate all things fashion and style month’s Love Learning edition. thanthe in timetable our Retail is Therapy edition. On a behind the scenes look
COVER SHOT:
LONG TALL SALLY Knitted Pocket Tunic, £48 & Lola Rosa Elena Necklace, £89
COVER SHOT:
Interact with us Interact with us LA REDOUTE, Cardigan £119, Scarf £21
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at Fashion Week, as items we uncover the WeLondon bring you the must-have from the standout colours and hottest makeup new season collections, updates on keytrends trends in for Check ourPlease; Hair to plus dye spring’s for JoinAW14. the Dots andout Pleats 10 best clutch bags Control. alsoseason’s share masterclass, plusina Clutch crash course inIthis my favourite tries and buys for SS14 in must-have accessories! Wish (p15). We allList know that acquiring new skills can be useful but did you know hundreds it can alsoofimprove wellbeing? As consumers we waste poundsyour overoverall our lifetime buyingWe the show wrongyou some simple ways to so learn happyDirector in Skillsatfor Life&. Guy If you’re stuck for rescue ideas on products for our hair, Jonyourself Levy, Artistic Toni comes to our how get started, takeHair. inspiration from ourout What’s On guide or consider booking with to 4 Steps to Perfect We also check this season’s catwalk makeup trends,ato learning theyour latest craze in minibreaks. help youholiday, transform new season look. We also meet thepassion, womendon’t whomiss pursued their create thriving businesses, If fashion is your out on ourpassions interviewtowith revolutionary designer in Designed for success ; plus weabout talk to ‘Queen down Bee’, Heather Jacks, winner ofthe BBC2’s Zandra Rhodes who talks to us breaking design barriers and why The Greatestshould British show Sewing Beesupport about her time the show and how inspiring government more to the UKon fashion industry. And she’s ever wondered awhat newitgeneration with her GoSew project! takes to become a personal stylist? Tina Lock reveals all in this month’s My Way. Finally off to cookery school to lift reader the lid on spices, createofthe perfect Finally we’re bag yourself one of our exclusive offers courtesy Lands’ End,pasta – itT.M. really isn’tClarins as easy as more. you think – and learn from Britain’s favourite grandmother, Lewin, and There’s never been a better excuse to shop, shop, shop! Mary Berry, why cake really is good for you! Until next time, Who knew learning could be this much fun!
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FASHION & BEAUTY
URBAN URBANFOX FOX MARTINA LENAGHAN MARTINA LENAGHAN Editor Editor editor@theurban-fox.co.uk editor@theurban-fox.co.uk STEVE LENAGHAN STEVEofLENAGHAN Head Sales & Marketing Head of Sales & Marketing 07738 614245 07738 614245 steve@theurban-fox.co.uk steve@theurban-fox.co.uk LISA ROTH LISA ROTH Head of New Business Head of New Business Development Development 07843 851132 07843 851132 lisa@theurban-fox.co.uk lisa@theurban-fox.co.uk LAURA WILLIAMS PAUL BANKS Designer Designer laura@theurban-fox.co.uk paul@theurban-fox.co.uk
Disclaimer: Disclaimer: Although Although every every effort effort is is made made to to ensure ensure the the accuracy accuracy of of material material in in this this publication, publication, the the editor editor can can accept accept no no responsibility responsibility for for the the veracity veracity of of claims claims made made by by contributors contributors in in either either editorial editorial or or advertising advertising content. content. Copyright: Copyright: All All text, text, images images and and design design in in this this publication publication are are subject subject to to copyright. copyright. Any Any unauthorised unauthorised duplication duplication is is strictly strictly prohibited. prohibited. All All artwork artwork is is accepted accepted on on the the strict strict condition condition that that permission permission has has been been given given to to use use itit in in this this publication. publication.
Best of
Revolut RnITISH Bio DESIGN
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approach to Famed for her wonderfully colourful Rhodes design, English queen of textiles Zandra She has legions of devoted fans, and discusses her involvement in the industry stores sell out of the clothes she wears
W
hen asked to picture a figurehead of the British fashion design world, the vivacious fuchsia-haired Zandra Rhodes promptly comes to mind. So it’s a privilege to meet the ‘Princess of Punk’ in her bright, quirky and altogether fabulous London penthouse. Awarded a Commander of the British Empire for her efforts in the fashion industry, the designer has permanently printed of her mark on the international world textiles.
star or a
isn’t a rock think “Ithis women Off have a Bake harder road all round, in whatever field they go into.”
Henri But onscreen. her garments procured by buyers Zandra this is a 79-year-old TV chef. Bendel, Neiman Marcus and Saks, supermodel; textile has since become the enigmaticMary Berry has risen to national treasure designer of her age. firm but fair judge of smash
status as the
series The Great British an easy That isn’t to say that fashion washit has become everyone’s industry to crack. Did being a woman Mary Berry, the queen of British baking, Off have anything to do with it? favourite honorary grandmother. Alongside her Bake the impossible by co-host Paul Hollywood, she has achieved again; in part due to her “Oh yes. I think women have a harder making family-friendly TV fashionable they go road all round, in whatever field commitment to the original aims of the show. not is say would I into. The only thing The Great by still have the same principle that we started “We to make it any harder for yourself want to find the we is, “that says, she with,” Off British Bake pointing it out.” that has changed is the best Great British baker. The one thing seen Bake Off, At 73, Rhodes has never been one to of of the contestants; now everybody has standard Introduced to the colourful world gone up.” shy away from bold prints and iconic they’veatpractised and the standard has textiles by her mother, Zandra studied patterns. Rewind half a century to the fans via the show, Medway College of Art in Kent, before happy to have collected an army of Berry late 1960s and a youthful Zandra’s vibrant Royalis people just enjoy securing a place at London’s Thebut she’s reluctant to take the credit. “I think designs were considered a little left-field. watch the show that it’s College of Art. all the baking. They realise when they Unperturbed, the designer made dresses absolutely genuine.” from her own fabrics, embedding printed “I do think that being in London at the textiles within her craft. time that I started, when everyone was But looking toward the UK, was helpful. California and London, Rhodes has also “One of my first struggles was the fact I don’t think that there’s such an equal spent time researching materials further that I was a textile designer,” she explains that opportunity at present. I don’t think large if afield. The designer cites travel as a with a laugh. “People would say that our current government spends enough creative inspiration. you’re a textile designer then you can’t compared when fashion promoting on a make dresses. So I suppose that was to the French government, for example. “When travelling you see things, one revolution.” don’t you unfortunately, So therefore, just thing leads to another thing and it’s necessarily reap the benefits.” an fabulous.” This revolution, in bringing together eye for both design and production, Rhodes shows no signs of slowing down. That isn’t to say that Zandra has secured Rhodes’ assimilation into the this The fashionista passed up her seat at forgone her design industry efforts fashion world. In 1967 she opened The of year’s London Fashion Week in favour closer to home. The London Fashion Fulham Road Clothes Shop, in London. advocating a women’s health awareness and Textile Museum holds testament Just two years on she’d taken her designs Diego. Known for San in campaign to her commitment to British fashion. to New York where Diana Vreeland dividing her time between bases in featured them in American Vogue. With
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have brought Berry The televised baking competition may spent the last 60 years national recognition, but she’s hardly first displayed culinary twiddling her thumbs. In fact, Berry if you were clever promise back in the classroom: “At school, like me, you did you did Latin and maths and if you weren’t, I soon got the bug domestic science. But I loved that, because for cooking.” baking game since she She’s been a strong contender in the Paris, authoring over 70 was 17, training at Le Cordon Bleu in Berry also held cookery books and presenting Aga workshops. magazine, all whilst the position of cookery editor for Housewife a 48-year marriage to bringing up three children and enjoying her husband Paul. since flown the nest,” Explaining that “my children have long quite likes it when I am Berry says “my husband Paul actually encouraged me to take the out and about and working hard. He that I’m busy, as long as I job as a judge on Bake Off. He’s happy once in a while!” remember to come back home every is never far away, but Berry’s day job means that a sweet treat by cakes all day – and for a woman employed to be surrounded be a true judge if I encouraged to sample them (“I couldn’t She insists she doesn’t didn’t”) – Berry has an enviable figure. others to practice encourage would but secret, have a slimming her mantra of “everything in moderation.” Founded by Rhodes in 2003 the museum of is dedicated to showcasing the work fashion and textile designers from the 1950s onwards. Does she believe her museum has made ripples in the fashion industry? “I definitely think the Fashion and Textile to Museum has had an impact in regards making the textiles industry more visible,” Sir she deliberates. “The museum curator of Nicholas Serota recently opened one our exhibitions, and he’s been amazingly the complimentary about the difference
11
“
a good cook is able to gather the ingredients that are around her and use them wisely.
” 8
Image: Gene Nocon
Photograph: Tim James | Mabel Gray
fashion industry, her advice to up and ingredients, low fatthe sugars ormerges for no-calorie British designers Berry has no time coming Instead, “if I’ve eaten portion.” the sage. have a smallerwith saying, “I’d rather entrepreneurial Having also expanded into designing lots of cakes on one day, the next day I’m fairly frugal lots and sets and costumes for the San Diego andassoups.” it’s salads you can. Because and as hard and sensible “Work on Opera, America has staked its claim wasted. And no hard work gets only not butter and all the natural boasts She the English designer. When baking, “I like cream and to work harder unfortunately you have when our nation’s and her she says. And in a time deeds to her flagship museumingredients,” at the Berry is right there get to harder and headlines, also the waistlines often dominate the penthouse home above it, butexpanding beginning.” needn’t lead to of Miami, proof that working closely with cake transatlantic keys to the cities living balanced eating is all about havingofaus Beverly Hills and New Orleans.weight problems. “Healthyyears the majority Debutingmuch ofbefore anything. It’s excellent for diet and not having too to pronounce ‘haute were old enough cake, but a small amount of it, along But this veteran designer won’t children to bake and to eat couture’, it’s safe to say she’s arrived. be claimed from us so easily. With with a balanced diet.” half a century of service to the UK diet is in decline due to While experts worry that our national 17make 2014can APRIL URBAN FOX anyone that ready meals and junk food, Berry insists for processed foods a little out of nothing – instead of reaching
museum has made.”
cook is able to gather when the cupboards are empty, “a good use them wisely.” the ingredients that are around her and just for television; she’s not Berry’s no-nonsense approach is not own bakes (remember her one to use wacky ingredients in her attempt at hemp tea loaf incredulity at amateur baker Howard’s to home cooking as she last year). She applies the same logic will look in the fridge and does to her cookbooks. “A good cook carrots, I’ve got a pint of go, ‘ah, there are a few potatoes, some make a lovely vegetable milk and some sausages.’ And they’ll bake and serve it with sausages.”
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but we’re still not brave We love that she’s so down to earth enough to invite her around for tea! Good Food Show Mary will be appearing at The BBC 2014 www. Winter, NEC Birmingham, 27 -30 November bbcgoodfoodshowwinter.com
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URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2014 31
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CONTRIBUTORS: Jeremy Cahill, John Cawrey, Mark Goddard, Jake Harvey, Julie
CONTRIBUTORS: PeterJones, Wyatt,James Mark Goddard, Phillip Rebecca Watts Howard, Ali Jahan, Allison Lonergan, LinoSharpe, Poli, Phillip Sharpe Jon Levy Powell Sheelagh Bringing youon Guiding you the latest looks, in hair cosmetic style, trendscolour and and product trends application
Frances James Jon Levy
Interior designer Bringing you helping to in hair the latest transform style, colour and your hometrends product
Debbie James Julie Langton
Literary helping you recommendations make the most from resident outour of your bookworm money
URBANURBAN FOX SEPTEMBER FOX APRIL 2014 5
September HEALTH & WELLBEING
19 A weight lifted Join the weight-training revolution 21 Skills for life Learn your way to happiness
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 23 What’s on Activities for the whole family 27 Reviews September’s recommendations
43
WINING & DINING 29 Spice up your life Add a little spice to your cooking
39 Sale or no sale What really matters
30 Best of British Mary Berry interview
43 Ideas interior Your home dilemmas answered
13
33 Pasta Perfection It’s not as easy as you think
45 Seeking sanctuary Give your bedroom some TLC
HOMES & GARDENS
FASHION & BEAUTY
35 Tips from the potting shed A little gardening know how
49 Canine Chic Pooch inspired interiors
8 Backstage pass Behind the scenes at LFW
50 Designed for success Women with a passion for business
11 Accessory alert Must-have pieces for AW14
55 The gender gap The case for single-sex schools
13 Sixties revival Swing into the new season
PEOPLE & PLACES
15 Hair to dye for Autumn’s shades de choix
57 Learning holidays A new wave of minibreaks
17 To boldly go Be bold, be bright, be beautiful
WIN TWO
HANDBAGS from Cellini
LIFE & WORK
29
10 WIN A MAKEUP
APPLICATION with Sheelagh Powell
58 My way Local spotlight on Heather Jacks
16 WIN A MINI-
MAKEOVER by Maison Interiors
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Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th September The high street fashion event of autumn. Kicking off with an exclusive appearance from style guru Laura Puddy. Seats are free, be sure to get one. For tickets and showtimes visit highcrossleicester.com
Photograph: Roksanda Ilincic
Bright Blue Trousers, £32, Next
Fabia Fitted Print Dress, £139, Reiss
Silk Abstrac Blouse, £1 t Spot 80, Jaeger
Luiza Slip On Flat Shoes, £59, Dune
Backstage
PASS
Bracti Wool Peplum Coat, £249, Ted Baker
We go behind the scenes at London Fashion Week to discover the standout colours for AW14 Images courtesy of The British Fashion Council
Betty Jackson. Black Pleated Skirt, £50, Debenhams
Photograph: Preen Credit
Red Collarless Zip Front Coat, £49.99, New Look
Britton High Heel Shoe, £250, Kurt Geiger
Reflections Bag, £185, Folli Follie
Tilly Gather Neck Top, £110, L.K.Bennett
Jarry Coat, £626, PQQ London
Photograph : Marques Alm eida
Black Layered Chain Link Necklace, £14.99, New Look
Myleene Klass Sequin Pencil Dress, £80, Littlewoods
Block Tear Drop Heel, £30, Very
Floral Sequin Shell Top, £45, Miss Selfridge
Purple Stone Bracelet, £6.25, Wallis
Davina Dress, £89, Phase Eight
Collection Coat, £120, Marks & Spencer
Metallic Strappy Sandal, £29, Dorothy Perkins
URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2014 9
Photograph: Peter Pilotto
Metallic Lurex Jumper, £40, Wallis
Luxury Designer Bags, Shoes & More
WIN
Two beautiful bags from Cellini
Rick Owens Alexander Wang Michael Kors Marc By Marc Jacobs Lulu Guinness DKNY Armani Orla Kiely
Looking for those must-have accessories to set off your Autumn wardrobe? Well look no further!
Vivienne Westwood Melissa Shoes & More...
The lovely folk at Cellini on Hotel Street, Leicester are offering one lucky reader the chance to get their hands on not one but two gorgeous bags worth £128 from the Jane Shilton Autumn/Winter collection. A lovely dark red cross-over style day bag and for nights out, a cute clutch in black patent. Just two of the standout styles from the Starling range. As an exclusive Jane Shilton retailer, Cellini offers a wide range of the brand’s stylish handbags, as well as highquality suitcases, backpacks, wallets, purses, laptop bags and travel essentials from names such as Samsonite, Antler, Radley, Fiorelli, Fossil and Kipling. For more information go to www.celliniluggageandleather. co.uk or visit the Leicester store on Hotel Street. TO ENTER: Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to editor@theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘Cellini’ in the subject bar. Closing date for entries is Tuesday 30th September 2014. Terms & Conditions: The winner will be drawn on or after the closing date. The Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. This prize is non-transferable and no cash alternative is available.
38 Francis St, Stoneygate, Leicester, LE2 2BD Open Tuesday - Saturday 12 - 5pm www.maisondesacs.com info@Maisondesacs.com
FASHION & BEAUTY
Accessory
Alert
The accessory is the oldest trick in the book for updating your style. We take a look at this season’s must-have pieces
Metal Hinges Leather Jeans Belt, £22, Warehouse
Autograph Multi-Strap Ankle Boot, £75, Marks & Spencer
Leighton Belt, £49, Hobbs
Leather Double Wrap Belt, £315, alexandermcqueen.com
Amanda Pointed Ankle Boot, £250, L.K Bennett
Valentino Cash & Rocket Ankle Boots, £765, net-a-porter.com
Black Metal Bar Mini Tote, £229, Ted Baker
Small Willow Tote Bag, £1,350, Mulberry
MINI BAGS
POINTED BOOTS
SKINNY BELTS
Save.. Spend.. Splurge!
Julian Macdonald Mini Bag, £45, Debenhams
URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2014 11
Sixties REVIVAL
FASHION & BEAUTY
The ‘60s are one of the most revisited fashion eras, and for good reason. Swing into the new season with one of these cool retro looks
INDIE BY M&S Limited Edition Top, £29.50
Limited Edition Skirt, £35 Indigo Brown Stud Sandal, £45 Limited Edition Bag, £29.50 Shoes available now. Other items available late autumn Photograph: Miss Selfridg e
MOD BY MINT VELVET
ROCKER BY TED BAKER Ippal Leather Biker Jacket, £399 Morval Leather Mini Skirt, £219 Narill Kitten Heel Boot, £130 Studroy Leather Stab Stitch Bag, £249
Steel Short Parka, £129
Ivory Eyelet Tee, £69
Steel Zip Skinny Trouser, £69
Grey Suede Pixie Pump, £79 URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2014 13
0
50 196 3/ 2013
5500 1963/2013
5 50
1963/2013 196 3/ 2 013
196 3/ 2013
196 3/ 2013
1963/2013
196 3/ 2 013
196 3/ 2013
196 3/ 2013
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With summer already a distant memory, Jon Levy, Artistic Director at Toni & Guy, focusses our attention on this season’s shades de choix. We’re loving them!
1
Modifying your colour by just 1 shade can make all the difference to your appearance.
2
For a subtle look, simply change your toner or highlights to a warmer, golden shade.
3
Reds make blue eyes pop, whereas warm browns will make brown eyes deeper in colour.
4
Before committing to a radical change, be sure the colour will compliment your autumn wardrobe. Of course it’s always a great excuse to buy more clothes!
5
Warm browns make brown eyes appear deeper in colour
You will also need to change your make-up choice, as the cooler tones of summer give way to richer hues of winter.
8
Your colourist should offer advice on what shade will suit your hair type, eye colour and skin tone, as well as discussing the implications to makeup and wardrobe. If they don’t, then ask!
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6
Coloured hair can be drier than usual, so if you don’t already, you may need to use a deep conditioning treatment as part of your new hair care routine. Have fun! Remember the colour doesn’t have to be a permanent choice. Toners can be changed at each appointment, for a new look every time!
7
If you’re opting for a radical new look, be aware that colour correction processes can be lengthy. If time is a factor, then opt for a less intensive colour treatment instead.
“Cooler tones of summer give way to richer hues of winter” that you look for inspiration Undecided on your autumnal shade? I recommend , this is your time to shine! glossy and rich , Warm . nment enviro l natura from your
tree Golden leaves of the Horse Chestnut Russet Brown leaves of the Oak tree Warm Brown of the conker Cool Brown of the acorn Holly Berry for the daring Blackberry for the not so brave URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2014 15
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BOOK YOUR TREATMENT* Visit the DECLÉOR counter at John Lewis Leicester Or call 0116 242 7146 *This offer runs from Monday 1st to Wednesday 30th September 2014 only at John Lewis Leicester and is subject to availability. Please hand this offer to your therapist on the day of your treatment.
WIN
We’re offering one lucky reader the chance to win a professional makeup application with our beauty writer Sheelagh Powell. Whether it’s for a girl’s night out, birthday or you’re simply keen to try a new look for autumn, you’re guaranteed to feel extra special in Sheelagh’s hands. Choose from traditional or airbrush makeup - a favourite with A-list celebrities – or perhaps add a WOW factor with false lashes. Sheelagh Powell Makeup offers a wide range of services including pre-makeup galvanic facials, bridal, photographic and special occasion makeup, cosmetic lessons and demonstrations, as well as teenage pamper parties. For more details about Sheelagh and the services she offers visit www.sheelaghpowellmakeup.co.uk TO ENTER: Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to editor@theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘Autumn Makeover’ in the subject bar. Closing date for entries is Tuesday 30th September 2014. Terms & Conditions: Appointments are for Mon-Fri, subject to availability. The prize must be taken no later than 31 March 2015. Travel is limited to 20 miles from Ashby de la Zouch. Should the winner live outside of this perimeter, travelling expenses may be charged. This prize is non-transferable and no cash alternative is available. The winner will be drawn on or after the closing date. The Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.
FASHION & BEAUTY
to BOLDLY GO Photograph : Ashley Willi ams
Confidence is the key to this season’s makeup. Be bold, be bright, be beautiful!
d MacDonal ph: Julian Photogra
Bright Eyes Colour is back with a bang, as eyes get brighter with splashes of citrus yellow, lime green, fuschia and peacock blue
LOOK GET THE Stand out from the crowd with these eye-catching shades Duo Eyeshadow in Fashion Rebel, £25, NARS Pigment Powder in Magenta Madness, £17, MAC Smudge Stick Eyeliner in Cobalt, £13, Stila
Über Lashes Heavy, lengthy lashes get the seal of approval for AW14
LOOK GET THE
TIP
board! Don’t go over ingly, ar sp Use brights e eye th on e pl for exam eye e lid or under th th bo t but no
Pump up the volume with one of these wonder wands Mineralize Multi-Effect Lash, £21, MAC Extreme Party Mascara, £19.50, Bobbi Brown High Impact Extreme Volume Mascara, £18, Clinque TIP
finish, For a modern ush br p li e th h ditc s of ge ed and blur the ith w ur lo co your lip ush br ow ad sh ean ey
Red Alert Photograph: Anya Hindmarch
The red lip was a catwalk staple, with Prada, Grace and Matthew Williamson, all embracing the trend
Images courtesy of The British Fashion Council
LOOK GET THE Matt or glossy, retro or modern, red lipstick can instantly update your look. Check out the Tom Ford collection at Selfridges, RRP £37.
URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2014 17
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HEALTH & WELLBEING
A weight
LIFTED Bored of pounding the treadmill and want to try something new? Nutrafit’s Rebecca Watts reveals why weight training is the exercise of choice for women wanting to improve their health, fitness and appearance Let me start by expelling the myth that women who weight train become bulky and lose their feminine shape. Typically women do not gain size from weight training, trust me I’ve been working on it for a couple of years and I’m still tiny! However weight bearing exercise is vital for women’s health, particularly amongst the over 40s. Here’s why...
1
METABOLISM
2
DEFINITION
Weight training will increase your lean muscle. The more lean muscle you have, the higher your resting metabolic rate (metabolism) and the higher your metabolism, the more calories you’ll burn. For each lb of muscle gained, you’ll burn up to 50 calories more a day. That’s a weight loss of 5lb a year without even dieting!
Weight bearing exercise will give your muscles more tone and definition, which will enhance the physical appearance of your body. It’s particularly important as we get older and our muscle mass decreases.
3
STRENGTH
Weight training won’t make you bigger but it will make you stronger, making your daily activities i.e. carrying shopping, picking up the kids, seem easier and will reduce your chances of getting injured during these and other physical activities.
4
BONE DENSITY
During menopause, oestrogen the hormone that helps protect the bones – decreases and can cause bone loss. Weight bearing exercise can help minimise this loss, increase bone density and boost bone strength. The strengthening of muscles also helps reduce falls which are the main cause of fractures with osteoporosis sufferers.
5
HORMONES
6
HEART DISEASE
7
CONFIDENCE
There are many studies about weight training helping to control and balance insulin, cortisol (the stress hormone) and the female sex hormones. From my experience weight training can have a positive effect on regulating menstrual cycles and balancing moods, as well as helping shift the stubborn fat storage around our midriffs.
According to research weight training can improve cardiovascular health by increasing good cholesterol and lowering bad cholesterol, as well as lowering blood pressure. Adding some cardio vascular exercise in - walking, swimming, jogging - can maximise this further.
Exercise in general can have a great effect on keeping stress at bay and elevating our mood. In addition to balancing your stress hormones, weight training can boost confidence through enhanced body composition and self-empowerment.
Now you know the benefits, the next step is to get you into the gym. I appreciate it can be intimidating with men often taking over the weight area but there are other ways to get started. Consider joining a ladies only gym, do a body pump class or even get a personal trainer and share the costs with a group of friends. So what are you waiting for? GET LIFTING!
URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2014 19
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Stepping forward together
Skills for
LIFE
Learning new skills can be useful, but did you know it can positively affect your emotional wellbeing too, helping to boost self-confidence and create purpose, as well as building new friendships
Check out these simple ways to bring happiness into your life! Research something online that you’ve always wondered about; the only limit is your mind!
Cook a new dish that you’ve never eaten before. Who knew learning could be so yummy!
Read a book or better still set up a book club! Stretch your mind and your social circle.
Volunteer for a charity at home or abroad and learn to improve the lives of others.
Do a crossword or Sudoku. You’ll be surprised how addictive they can be.
Rediscover an old hobby that challenges you, it could even lead to an exciting new career.
Set yourself a DIY project and discover new practical skills. Who needs a handyman? Not us! URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2014 21
FINE ART & ANTIQUES
incluDing Jewellery, 20th century DecorAtive Art AnD, books of county AnD sporting interest from the librAry of A leicestershire gentlemAn
TUESdAy 23Rd SEpTEmbER
Fully illustrated catalogue available online from friDAy 5th september @ www.gilDings.co.uk viewing times: friDAy 19th sept 10Am-4pm, sAturDAy 20th 9Am-12noon, monDAy 22nD 9Am-7pm enquiries: 01858 410414 | sAles@gilDings.co.uk
gildings auctioneers
An AttrActive Art Deco style brAcelet set with DiAmonDs AnD sApphires £6,000-£8,000
mARkET HARb oRoUg H SAl ERoom TH E mIll gRE AT b ow dE N R oAd l E 16 7dE
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
WHAT’S ON
SEPTEMBER 2014
The Two Gentlemen of Verona
Wed 3 Sep Cinema De Lux, Leicester Ticket £12.50 showcasecinemas.co.uk
Live from Stratford-UponAvon this is the first time in 45 years this play has been performed in full production on the Royal Shakespeare Theatre stage. Valentine and Proteus are best friends until they both fall for the Duke’s daughter Silvia. But Proteus is already sworn to his sweetheart, Julia, and the Duke thinks Valentine is not
good enough for Silvia. With friendship forgotten, the rivals’ affections quickly get out of hand, before they find a path to reconciliation.
Barnum
Fri 5 - Sat 13 Sep Curve Theatre, Leicester Tickets £27.50-£44.50 curveonline.co.uk/barnum
This exhilarating musical follows the irrepressible imagination and dreams of Phineas T Barnum, America’s Greatest Showman. The story of his life and his marriage to Chairy reveals a couple
Seaside Special Steam Day, 7 September, Abbey Pumping Station
Barnum, 5-13 September, Curve Theatre
who looked at the world from opposite sides of the spectrum, and also reveals that she was the practical one who made his dreams come true. Starring Brian Conley (Oliver!, Hairspray, Jolson) in the title role and featuring Linzi Hateley as ‘Chairy’ (Mary Poppins, Mamma Mia!, Chicago, Les Misérables).
Seaside Special Steam Day Sun 7 Sep Abbey Pumping Station, Leicester Family Ticket £8 leicester.gov.uk/museums
Leicester’s favourite seaside destination is back! Bring your swimsuit and relax in a deck chair while enjoying all the sights and sounds of a traditional day at the seaside, complete with fairground rides, Punch & Judy and donkey rides. There is a small charge for the train, fairground and donkey rides. As an added bonus the Leicester Transport Heritage trust will be running vintage bus passenger services from outside the site.
Rutland Food & Drink Festival Sat 13 Sep Rutland Water, Nr Empingham
Free Event discover-rutland.co.uk
The 5th Rutland Food & Drink Festival is taking place on the shores of Rutland Water near Empingham. Come and celebrate what is great about Rutland, with an array of local producers selling their tempting food and drink, local chefs on the cookery stage inspiring you to try something different, local music on the main stage and lots of family fun with activities, stalls and a funfair! A great day out for the whole family. This is a free event but parking charges (£5) at Sykes Lane will apply. URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2014 23
sensational artists direct from London’s West End and a superb live band, this all-singing, all-dancing production features over 140 dazzling costumes, beautiful vocal performances & thrilling choreography as it showcases West End musicals past & present including Chicago, Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables, Grease, Mama Mia, The Lion King, Dirty Dancing, Jersey Boys and more.
The West End Experience
Wed 17 Sep De Montfort Hall, Leicester Tickets £22.50 conc. apply demontforthall.co.uk
Transporting you on a journey through the musicals and into the heart of London’s Theatreland. Performed by a cast of
Leicester International Music Festival
returns to New Walk. The Festival aims to show the huge range and depth of Czech composers and their music, with a special focus on Dvorák. A dark shadow on the musical history of this great country is how many great Jewish composers died at the hands of the Nazis in World War 2. A tribute to their lives and their wonderful music is embedded in the programme.
Literature at Lunchtime
Thu 25 Sep De Montfort Hall, Leicester
Tickets £6 demontforthall.co.uk
Following the controversial television production of Jamaica Inn, Literature at Lunchtime takes a look at what Du Maurier’s work is really about, choosing one of her short stories, ‘The Birds’ filmed by Alfred Hitchcock. Du Maurier had a famously dark imagination and a way of producing haunting books that did not fit with her upper class life style. Find out just what makes her tick!
Wed 17 – Sat 20 Sep New Walk Museum, Leicester See website for £s musicfestival.co.uk
Described by the BBC Music Magazine as ‘One of the 20 unmissable events for September 2014’ the Leicester International Music Festival
Autumn Fashion Fix Sat 27 & Sun 28 Sep Highcross, Leicester Free Event highcrossleicester.com
A weekend of fashion awaits shoppers with Autumn Fashion Fix. During 27-28 September the key trends for the season will be brought to life in the Autumn Fashion Fix: Runway Show. On Saturday, style guru Laura Puddy will take to the stage advising fashionistas how to dress their curves. The show will take place on the lower east mall outside Debenhams. See looks from some of your
Photograph: The British Fashion Council
favourite retailers including John Lewis, Karen Millen, Mango and many more. And after the show you can hunt down the looks in stores. So put the date in your diary, cancel your plans and make a big space in your wardrobe. It’s time for Autumn Fashion Fix. To book your free tickets and find out more about AW14’s five key trends, show times and Laura Puddy, visit www.highcrossleicester.com
De Montfort Hall Leicester’s leading live entertainment venue
BLOOD BROTHERS Monday 27 October – Saturday 1 November // £20 - £36.50 // Concessions £18 - £31.50
GROUPS OF 10+ GET 10% DISCOUNT PLUS 11TH TICKET FREE GROUPS OF 20+ GET 20% DISCOUNT PLUS 21ST AND 22ND TICKETS FREE
£3 transaction fee payable per booking // Box Office 0116 233 3111 Web demontforthall.co.uk // Twitter @demontforthall
www.visitleicester.info
URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2014 25
We Buy Fine & Rare Books
! k c a b s ’ It
Do you have books you wish to sell? Maybe you’ve inherited a house full of books? Locally-based rare book dealer is keen to buy fine, unusual and interesting literature, especially first editions of the twentieth century (including pre-war detective fiction), together with collectable children’s books. Signed and inscribed books in these fields always of interest. We buy single items to whole collections. We will consider rare books in all fields. CONTACT James Pickard, ABA, ILAB, PBFA. JPRAREBOOK@aol.com 0771 505 6708 (at any time).
RAWLINS ACADEMY Inspiring learning
ARTS & CRAFTS Guitar Making Glass Fusion ainng & raing Life raing Watercolours Calligraphy hotography eellery Making oery Floer Arranging Bookbinding Calligraphy Embroidery & esign Guitar laying So Furnishing & ressmaking SORTS & EXERCISE ance for Adults Aerobics ilates Qigong Exercise 55+ Yoga Badminton Tai Chi Step & Tone Hatha Yoga Total Body Toning Cheerobics Gentle Exercise GENERAL INTEREST Cooking for Beginners Baking Garden esign Creae Wring Cake ecorang GCSE apanese Compung for Beginners Guitar laying RYA ayskipper & Yachtmaster
ONE AY WORKSHOS Saturday 15 Noember Intro to Oil ainng Watercolour ainng ith Collage Make a Siler Ring Cooking Christmas Treats Ho to Ice a Christmas Cake ortrait hotography (22 No) Quillork Ho to Teach Your Child to Read & Write Research Your Family Tree on the Internet Call for further details.
Sunday 16 Noember
10.30am to 3.30pm Entrance £1 (Concessions 50p)
For full information about the courses, evening classes, activities please visit
www.rawlinsacademy.org.uk or call 01509 622827 or email communityed@rawlinsacademy.org.uk Rawlins Academy, Loughborough Rd, Quorn, Leicestershire LE12 8DY
The biggest Street Theatre Festival in the East Midlands! Sunday 14th September Market Harborough Town Centre, from 10.30am - 4pm Don’t miss this wonderful FREE event! Children’s Village Free Parking
www.artsfresco.com
film REVIEW
Pride
(15) 2hrs Fri 12 Sep - Thu 2 Oct at The Phoenix 0116 242 2800 | phoenix.org.uk This new British production is a lifeaffirming and uplifting movie about triumph over adversity, set during the National Union of Mineworkers strike in the summer of 1984. Based on a true story, a group of gay and lesbian activists hold a series of benefit concerts in order to raise money for the miners, but are faced with suspicion and animosity from both the London gay scene and the historically ‘macho’ mining community. Deciding to take the money directly to a small mining village in the Welsh valleys run by
g with hope larious & burstin hi , ted ar he g Bi e: Prid
a sympathetic mining leader, the activists face hostility from the traditional mining folk and it is up to the older members of the town to forge an uneasy alliance so the community can survive. Although bound to be criticised by some for putting a rosy tint on what was a dark and tumultuous time in British life, Pride remains a hopelessly loveable film. Big hearted, hilarious and bursting with the
simple hope that perhaps people can learn to live and love side-by-side, it’s powered by stellar performances from a host of home-grown talent including Imelda Staunton (Vera Drake), Bill Nighy (NT Live’s Skylight), Paddy Considine (The Suspicions of Mr Whicher) and Dominic West (The Wire). No doubt it will feature prominently in the BAFTA Awards early next year so catch it now.
book REVIEW
Autumn’s hottest reads brought to you by resident bookworm Debbie James at The Bookshop, Kibworth
The Bone Clocks by David Mitchell. Published in hardback by Hodder & Stoughton, £20
One drowsy summer’s day in 1984, teenage runaway Holly Sykes encounters a strange woman who offers a small kindness in exchange for ‘asylum’. Decades will pass before Holly understands exactly what sort of asylum the woman was seeking. The Bone Clocks follows the twists and turns of Holly’s life from a scarred adolescence in Gravesend to old age on Ireland’s Atlantic coast as Europe’s oil supply dries up - a life not so far out of the ordinary, yet punctuated by flashes of precognition, visits from people who emerge from thin air and brief lapses in the laws of reality. Metaphysical thriller, meditation on mortality and chronicle of our self-devouring times, this kaleidoscopic novel crackles with invention and wit.
Us
by David Nicholls. Published in hardback by Hodder & Stoughton, £20
Douglas Petersen understands his wife’s need to ‘rediscover herself’ now that their son is leaving home. He just thought they’d be doing their rediscovering together. So when Connie announces that she will be leaving too, he resolves to make their last family holiday the trip of a lifetime, one that will draw the three of them closer and win the respect of his son. One that will make Connie fall in love with him all over again. The hotels are booked, the tickets bought, the itinerary planned and printed. What could possibly go wrong? David Nicholls brings to bear all the wit and intelligence that graced his earlier novel One Day in this brilliant, bittersweet new book.
URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2014 27
Bridge 67 Cookery School is one of the finest cookery schools in the East Midlands. Set in beautiful surroundings on a working farm in the heart of rural Leicestershire, we give you the opportunity to escape from the typical daily routine and throw yourself wholeheartedly into the wonderful world of Cookery. With a wide variety of cookery courses to suit all levels of skills, you are sure to have a wonderful day set in a relaxed environment.
To book a course or find out more, please visit: www.bridge67cookeryschool.co.uk or call 0116 279 6155
September
lunch menu at The White Peacock 2 courses £14.95 3 courses £17.95 Plus live music every Thursday evening!
Thoughtfully created menus, Beautifully cooked & Exquisitely presented just for you Thomas specialises in bespoke catering in your home or venue of choice, perfect for making those special celebrations extra special – Milestone Birthdays - Christenings - Family Celebrations - Weddings
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14-16 King Street, Leicester LE1 6RJ
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For information and general enquiries please email: enquiries@the-white-peacock.co.uk www.the-white-peacock.co.uk
WINING & DINING
Spice UP YOUR LIFE
Fed up with bland, boring food? This month The White Peacock’s, Phil Sharpe tells us how to add a little spice to our cooking To be a good cook, it’s important to explore spices and know when to use them to your advantage. Spices come in various forms, fresh, whole dried, or pre-ground dried. Not all spices are available in all forms, turmeric for example is only available as a ground spice. The whole dried variety has the longest shelf life, so can be purchased and stored in larger amounts, making it cheaper on a per serving basis. I would always recommend buying whole dried
PHIL’S SPICY PASTE Ingredients 90g turmeric 75g coriander seeds 75g cumin seeds 30g garam masala 15g cardamom seeds 10g cayenne pepper 20g ground ginger 3 red onions (peeled, chopped) 6 cloves garlic (peeled, chopped) 100g ginger (chopped, leave skin on) 3 chillies (chopped) 1 bunch coriander (chopped, include stalks)
spices, it can be time consuming grinding your own spices but it’s definitely worth the effort. Personally I love to make different combinations of pastes. It’s a great way to be inventive and fantastic for quickly enhancing a dish after a long day at work. Let me share with you my easy and delicious spicy paste recipe, perfect for adding to a curry, soup or casserole, flavouring couscous or even as a marinade for meat and fish.
TIP!
Method
• Now add all your spice mix and cook out for approx. 5-10 mins, adding a little more oil if needed.
• Toast the coriander, cumin and cardamom in a warm pan. • Place toasted seeds plus other spices into a mortar and grind with the pestle. Depending on the size of your mortar you may need to do this in small batches.
For a Thai inspired paste, simply add lemongrass, lime leaves, vanilla, a little apple and pineapple juice
• Add all the vegetable stock and reduce slowly by half, before adding the mint and coriander. • Remove from the heat and allow to infuse with the herbs for 10-15 mins.
• Using a heavy based pan on a medium heat, add a little oil and slowly sweat off the red onions.
• Place mixture into a food processer and blend until a smooth paste. Add more stock if required.
• After 20 mins add the garlic, ginger and chilli and cook out for another 5-10 mins.
• Divide the paste into ice cube trays and once frozen, remove and keep in a lidded container. They will last for at least 3 months in your freezer.
Best of
BRITISH She has legions of devoted fans, and stores sell out of the clothes she wears onscreen. But this isn’t a rock star or a supermodel; this is a 79-year-old TV chef. Mary Berry has risen to national treasure status as the firm but fair judge of smash hit series The Great British Bake Off
Mary Berry, the queen of British baking, has become everyone’s favourite honorary grandmother. Alongside her Bake Off co-host Paul Hollywood, she has achieved the impossible by making family-friendly TV fashionable again; in part due to her commitment to the original aims of the show. “We still have the same principle that we started The Great British Bake Off with,” she says, “that is, we want to find the best Great British baker. The one thing that has changed is the standard of the contestants; now everybody has seen Bake Off, they’ve practised and the standard has gone up.” Berry is happy to have collected an army of fans via the show, but she’s reluctant to take the credit. “I think people just enjoy all the baking. They realise when they watch the show that it’s absolutely genuine.”
The televised baking competition may have brought Berry national recognition, but she’s hardly spent the last 60 years twiddling her thumbs. In fact, Berry first displayed culinary promise back in the classroom: “At school, if you were clever you did Latin and maths and if you weren’t, like me, you did domestic science. But I loved that, because I soon got the bug for cooking.”
She’s been a strong contender in the baking game since she was 17, training at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, authoring over 70 cookery books and presenting Aga workshops. Berry also held the position of cookery editor for Housewife magazine, all whilst bringing up three children and enjoying a 48-year marriage to her husband Paul. Explaining that “my children have long since flown the nest,” Berry says “my husband Paul actually quite likes it when I am out and about and working hard. He encouraged me to take the job as a judge on Bake Off. He’s happy that I’m busy, as long as I remember to come back home every once in a while!” Berry’s day job means that a sweet treat is never far away, but for a woman employed to be surrounded by cakes all day – and encouraged to sample them (“I couldn’t be a true judge if I didn’t”) – Berry has an enviable figure. She insists she doesn’t have a slimming secret, but would encourage others to practice her mantra of “everything in moderation.”
“
a good cook is able to gather the ingredients that are around her and use them wisely
”
Photograph: Tim James | Mabel Gray Berry has no time for no-calorie sugars or low fat ingredients, saying, “I’d rather have a smaller portion.” Instead, “if I’ve eaten lots and lots of cakes on one day, the next day I’m fairly frugal and sensible and it’s salads and soups.” When baking, “I like cream and butter and all the natural ingredients,” she says. And in a time when our nation’s expanding waistlines often dominate the headlines, Berry is living proof that working closely with cake needn’t lead to weight problems. “Healthy eating is all about having a balanced diet and not having too much of anything. It’s excellent for children to bake and to eat cake, but a small amount of it, along with a balanced diet.” While experts worry that our national diet is in decline due to ready meals and junk food, Berry insists that anyone can make a little out of nothing – instead of reaching for processed foods
when the cupboards are empty, “a good cook is able to gather the ingredients that are around her and use them wisely.” Berry’s no-nonsense approach is not just for television; she’s not one to use wacky ingredients in her own bakes (remember her incredulity at amateur baker Howard’s attempt at hemp tea loaf last year). She applies the same logic to home cooking as she does to her cookbooks. “A good cook will look in the fridge and go, ‘ah, there are a few potatoes, some carrots, I’ve got a pint of milk and some sausages.’ And they’ll make a lovely vegetable bake and serve it with sausages.” We love that she’s so down to earth but we’re still not brave enough to invite her around for tea! Mary will be appearing at The BBC Good Food Show Winter, NEC Birmingham, 27 -30 November 2014 www. bbcgoodfoodshowwinter.com URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2014 31
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WINING & DINING
Pasta
Perfection
Boiling pasta may seem like a nobrainer, but you can’t just put the pot on the back burner and think dinner will cook itself. We take a look at 9 of the most common mistakes people make and how to avoid them
1 2 3 4 5
Pot’s too small
asta needs space to move around in order to cook P properly and be the perfect texture. Choose a large pot and pour in plenty of water.
No added salt
nce the water has come to a rapid boil, add a O tablespoon or two of salt. This will ensure that your pasta doesn’t taste too bland.
Water’s not boiled
o avoid sticky pasta, let the water come to a rapid boil, T stir the pasta and let the water come back to a full boil.
Adding olive oil
dding oil to the water can make the pasta slippery and A effect its ability to soak up the sauce. Cook the pasta correctly and there’s no need for oil.
Forgetting to stir
eep the pasta moving around the pot using a wooden K spoon. This will prevent the pasta sticking together and ensure it cooks through consistently.
6 7 8 9
Undercooking or overcooking
he best way to know when pasta is ready, is to test it. T The pasta will continue to cook while it drains and when in the sauce, so remove it from the pan a minute or two earlier than the instructions recommend.
Rinsing with water
he only thing this does is remove the starch that helps T hold and absorb the sauce. However it is acceptable to rinse pasta, when you’re making a cold pasta salad.
Tossing in oil
he same issues apply as in 4. If you’re worried about T the pasta sticking, then drain it after cooking and immediately blend in a small amount of your sauce.
The wrong sauce
lways choose the right pasta for the sauce you’re A making E.g. spaghetti with a light sauce (marinara), fettuccine with a richer sauce (alfredo) and penne with a chucky sauce (primavera).
hey pesto! Need a quick pasta sauce, then try our one-step pesto... 110g basil leaves 4 cloves garlic (peeled) 75g Parmesan cheese (grated) 110ml olive oil 30g pine nuts
Simply place all the ingredients into a food processor and blend to a smooth paste.
Buon Appetito! URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2014 33
Coles Plant Centre
FARMERS MARKET Saturday 11th October 10am - 3pm | Free Entry
* Local Organic
Produce * Talks on Plant Care
* Special Offers and Discounts * Nursery Tours
www. colesplantcentre .co.uk Uppingham Road, Thurnby, Leicester LE7 9QB 0116 241 8394 | info@colesplantcentre.co.uk
Ground Qube is a landscape and garden design studio based in Leicestershire. Offering clients a complete landscaping service, Ground Qube can design, construct and maintain your outdoor space. Ground Qube is a landscape and garden design studio based in Leicestershire. Ground Qube landscape and garden designGround Qube can design, Offering clientsisaacomplete landscaping service, studio based Leicestershire. construct andin maintain your outdoor space. Offering clients a complete landscaping service, Ground Qube can design, construct and maintain your outdoor space.
M: 07969 180130 T: 01858 571047 E: info@gqgardens.com W: www.gqgardens.com A: Hemploe View, The Belt, South Kilworth, Leicestershire. LE17 6DX.
Tips from the
HOMES & GARDENS
POTTING SHED A little gardening know-how from Mark Goddard at Coles Plant Centre
My vegetable plot always looks a bit empty at this time of year, is there anything that I could plant now and harvest in a few months’ time? Planting vegetables at this time of year is a great way to maximise your space and lengthen your production. Lettuce, for example, makes a fantastic late crop which can be grown in regular cycles, giving you six months of constant availability. You can incorporate different varieties to add extra interest. For example “Lollo Ross” has attractive red leaves with a curled habit, whereas “Oak Leaf” has dark, flat foliage. There are also a range of leafy vegetables including varieties of cress and parsley which are known as ‘Cut and Come Again’; just prune the required amount and the plant will continue to regenerate, offering a constant supply. A crop that is becoming more popular is sprouting
broccoli; available in white and purple forms. Both produce succulent stems and are excellent for home freezing. Many varieties of leeks can also be planted around this time of year and will be ready to harvest for the cold winter months, perfect for stews and soups! Potatoes are another great way to fill space on your vegetable plot. Taking between twelve and fourteen weeks until harvestable, planted now they’ll be ready just in time for Christmas! As the weather in autumn can be dry, be sure to keep them well soaked but avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can encourage blight. I would also suggest a fortnightly spraying regime with a good fungicide, suitable for edible crops.
My garden’s beginning to look a bit tired and lifeless, are there any plants that wil provide me with a splash of colour throughout the autumn and winter? There are plenty of options available that will help you brighten up your garden through autumn and winter, some of my favourites are Pansies, Cyclamen and Violas. Pansies are probably one of the easiest plants to grow and are available in a host of colours from white and yellow through to blue and purple. Violas are very similar to Pansies but with a slightly daintier flower, and again are available in a vast array of colours. Cyclamens are also a great choice as they are ideal for planting in
slightly shaded areas, such as under trees or along a shady border. To keep these species flowering all through the winter, be sure to keep up to date with your dead-heading! If you stay on top of this most plants, especially the Cyclamens, have the potential to flower all the way through to February. As an added boost you can also give the plants a good feed every other week, tomato foods are ideal.
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Saleor No Sale Many people find the prospect of selling their home daunting, whether it’s sentiment, the pressure of timing, or simply not knowing the process. Peter Wyatt of local estate agent Fothergill Wyatt tells us what to consider when preparing to sell Ready, steady...
You may have your eye on your ideal move, but firstly your home needs to be ready, in order to be ‘ideal’ for someone else. Forget the clichés about flowers and the aroma of fresh coffee; finishing those outstanding DIY jobs and having the right information, is far more
beneficial. Having your household bills to hand, details of how the appliances work and who the neighbours are; these are the facts that genuine buyers will want to know. And make sure your agent is well versed in the detail of your property, local amenities and all the nuances of what they have to offer.
“
Timing is everything When to sell, what is the best time to hold viewings, when will you complete, when will your new home be ready? Timing is a very important factor in a successful sale. It’s good to have price aspirations, but you have to consider it may take longer to find your buyer. You may also want to consider the best time of year to sell; spring is traditionally busy but autumn has been a busy time in the property market in recent years. Finally, once you have an offer agreed you will need to arrange your sale and purchase timescales to line up and ensure your agent and solicitor know what you are trying to achieve.
Having the right professionals acting on your behalf could be the difference between achieving an ‘ok’ price and a ‘top’ price
”
Use reliable professionals
Know your numbers
The price you achieve for the sale of your property will often influence what you can afford to spend on your new home, so knowing your sale and purchase prices is important as it will allow you to react quickly and get best value from your move. You should discuss with your agent their opinion on your achievable sales price and the appropriate marketing price. You should find out the agent’s fee, and any other costs associated with your sale including marketing and EPC’s.
Having the right professionals acting on your behalf could be the difference between achieving an ‘ok’ price and a ‘top’ price, or even between a sale or none at all! You should be confident that your agent is appropriately qualified to deliver the best service, has a strong database in your area, and is marketing in all the right places. Equally you’ll want to know your solicitor is efficient, experienced and accessible, because these attributes contribute to getting the right result. Need a mortgage? An independent advisor will get you the best deal in the market and make sure that your application and valuation are processed smoothly.
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URBANURBAN FOX SEPTEMBER FOX JUNE 2014 2014 41 45
WIN
A MINIMAKEOVER BY MAISON INTERIORS If you’ve ever torn pages from home magazines of amazing furnishings and colour schemes, only to discover they didn’t work together in your room, Maison Interiors is offering you the opportunity to win a home consultation with resident designer, Zoe Hubbard. Zoe will visit your home to gain a perspective of your project and create a mood board for one room, including furniture, fabrics, flooring, wallcoverings and lighting. Maison Interiors is a leading manufacturer and supplier of quality handmade bespoke furniture. They also specialise Urban Fox Maison May 2 Advert
in fabrics, wallpapers, flooring and home accessories, perfect for both the traditional and contemporary home. For more details go to www.maison-interiors.com or visit their store in Oadby, Leicester.
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Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to editor@theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘Home Makeover’ in the subject bar. Closing date for entries is Tuesday 30th September 2014 1 16/05/2014 12:35 Half Page.pdf
Terms & Conditions The winner will be drawn on or after the closing date. The Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. This prize is non-transferable and no cash alternative is available. The prize must be taken no later than 31 March 2015. Appointments are subject to availability and travel is limited to within 20 miles of Maison Interiors. The prize is for the consultation and mood board only. No purchase is necessary.
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HOMES & GARDENS
Q
I like the decorative and ornamental style of Art Nouveau inspired interiors and would love a Tiffany Lamp but the ones I’ve seen are extortionate. Do you know of any more affordable options?
Carol, Leicester
A
You’re right, original Tiffany lamps cost the earth and are more likely to be found in a museum than in a home. Thankfully many high street and independent stores produce very good imitations, so you can get the look without the exorbitant price tag. We love this Tiffany Scale Iridised Blue Shade from Broughtons at Anstey, £82 (shade only).
Ideas interior Design dilemma? Style question? Trying to find a specific product? We’re here to help!
Q
My son’s heading off to university and I’d like to buy him a funky tray table for his room. Any ideas?
Sarah, Market Harborough
A
New to IKEA and available in multi-colour or white, this versatile and space saving table is a great option. The trays stack to form a table with exciting storage possibilities. At £50 it’s a great price too!
Q
I’m looking for a coat rack for my hallway but space is an issue. I have a budget of approx £200. Suggestions please…
Louise, Oakham
A
This wall-mounted coat and hat rack, represents birch trees in winter time. Available in three colours (white, black and green) from ariashop.co.uk, the ‘Latva’ rack will create an attractive and compact storage solution for your hallway. And at £175 it’s well within your budget.
Email your décor and design dilemmas to editor@theurban-fox.co.uk and we’ll answer as many as we can URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2014 43
Our Cotes Mill Showrooms Are Now Open 01509 234000 - www.floorsofstone.com Cotes Mill, Nottingham Road, Loughborough, LE12 5TL
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HOMES & GARDENS
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SANCTUARY As our lives become more hectic, a place to unwind at the end of the day is compulsory in any home. Frances James, designer at Plug Interiors tells us how to turn a lacklustre bedroom into a stylish, tranquil haven. Fabrics, textiles and soft furnishings and add different levels to the space. the various lighting effects that can be are a must in any bedroom setting, When choosing a colour scheme for achieved. There are now several beds but they don’t just have to come in the your bedroom, go for a muted palette, available with LED strip lights below, form of cushions and throws. Large remember this is where you sleep along with acrylic legs to give the upholstered headboards are becoming and relax, so bright, harsh colours will appearance the bed is floating. The large hugely popular. Rather than choosing stimulate the mind not help turn it off. headboards people are leaning towards a bed with a standard headboard, more Taupe and grey are a fantastic starting look fantastic when backlit to provide a and more we see walls completely point for the base of your palette, then warm white glow. transformed into padded, Where possible fit ceiling upholstered backdrops to a spotlights on a dimmer switch “If changing the fabric of the wall is too simple yet stylish bed. This in bedrooms. Very rarely do we much for your space, go for a modular gives much more flexibility need full power on overhead bed/headboard combo” when choosing a bed that’s lights and a dimmer will give you right for you. full control in creating the right If changing the fabric of the wall is too inject colour with soft blue and navy or mood. Also, bear in mind that although much for your space, go for a modular pastel yellow and green to add that calm it’s great to have some switches by the bed/headboard combo. Nightstands feel. Try to incorporate colour into the bed, don’t go over the top. Two switches can now be integrated into the bed and accessories of the room so these can either side is more than enough. headboard themselves, leaving you with be easily interchangeable throughout So if your bedroom is lacking the love the appearance of less furniture in the seasons and trends. and attention you deserve, ditch the room and a more contemporary, quirky Lighting is still incredibly underestimated practical, boxy furniture and harsh feel. Asymmetric styles are also popular. in most rooms of the house and with lighting and transform your sleep space Try a nightstand on one side and a tall the latest technological advancements into a stylish sanctuary with sumptuous boy on the other, to maximise storage you needn’t be afraid of embracing soft furnishings and lighting to suit.
Photograph: Presotto URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2014 45
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LIFE & WORK
Canine
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Dog Lamp in Dark Cherry, £120, clareloves.co.uk Voyage Ceres Walkies Footstool, £145, cotswoldtrading.com Dogs Trust Mini Mug, £14.50, fenellasmith.com Barkley Basset Hound Doorstop, £19.99, cuckooland.com Roberts Revival DAB Radio in Rover, £199.95, johnlewis.com Box of 8 Doggie Coasters, £13.50, driftliving.co.uk Sausage Dog Bookends, £58, artisanti.com Carola Van Dyke Schnauzer Cushion, £89, amara.com
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If your dog is an integral part of your home, you’ll love this season’s pooch inspired interiors
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URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2014 49
Designed for success
We meet the women who pursued their passions to establish successful creative businesses
Debbie Barber Ceramic Artist
Debbie specialises in Raku and smoke fired ceramics and works from her home studio in rural Leicestershire
“I’ve always been interested in art and design Things really took off when I took a stand for my simple small birds, because they and loved drawing and making things as a at the British Craft Trade Fair a couple of make me smile. child. I went to my first pottery class with years ago. I now sell my work to galleries The biggest challenge I’ve had so far, was my Mum when still at school, but it was 30 all over the country and even abroad. last year when I had lots of orders to fulfil years before I took up ceramics again! I love birds, flowers, trees and leaves but for some reason a third of my pieces I rediscovered my passion for cracked in the final firing and had ceramics when I signed up for a to be thrown away. I had to find “Inspiration for my designs comes from the the courage to tell my customers 12 week taster course at my local college, after which I decided to that their orders would be late surrounding countryside and my garden” enrol on City & Guilds courses. and start again from scratch. I received a lot of encouragement It was a very stressful time from my tutor and had enquiries from some and they are reflected in the shapes and but fortunately once I explained they local galleries which persuaded me that I patterns I use. I don’t really have an allunderstood and were prepared to wait. could sell my work. time favourite piece but I have a fondness My proudest moment was receiving the news that I had been awarded the City & Guilds Gold Medal for Excellence for my ceramics in 2010. Only one medal is awarded in each discipline every year so it was a great honour.”
“For readers wanting to start a creative business, my advice is to be flexible as things change!”
LIFE & WORK
Klaire Van Elton Headdress Designer
“Creating and crafting has always been a big part of my life. I studied graphic design at University and after graduating I worked on design graphics for Adams Kids and then I moved to Next where I was inspired to start designing fabric garments alongside printed graphics.” “When I got married in 2011, I was eager to put a personal stamp on our day so I DIY’ed what I could, most notably our flowers which were all origami folded from old novels. The reaction to the flowers, was amazing, so I decided to create a few different styles and set-up a Facebook page. Soon after, our wedding was featured in a national wedding magazine and the enquiries started flooding in! Although it took about 2 years before I was brave enough to work fully for myself.
Klaire is the creator and designer of Klaire Van Elton Bridal Adornments and is based in her quaint studio in Hinckley
“I don’t think there has ever been a better time to start up a creative business” Over time more brides were asking for paper hair flowers to co-ordinate with their bouquets and so the idea to expand into hair adornments was ignited. I spent a year or so designing and perfecting my debut collection of bridal accessories and launched at the end of 2013. I now sell my pieces direct to brides through my web-site and my studio and am stocked in selected boutiques nationwide. My proudest moment was reaching the finals as the UK’S Best Headdress Designer at the 2014 Bridal Buyer Awards. I’m also up for Best Newcomer in Perfect Wedding Magazine Awards. I don’t think there has ever been a better time to start up a creative business, there’s so many great social media sites that help you visually get your creativity out there. Go for it!”
“I’m a naturally eclectic person, hoarding things and collecting trinkets along the way. I like things miss-matched, unexpected and with lots of character and try to convey this through my designs. My new 2015 collection draws inspiration from the floral illustrations of the 1920’s and is very natural and organic in its style.”
URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2014 51
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LIFE & WORK
The Gender Gap
Decisions regarding our children’s education, can be a headache and as parents we always worry about making the right choices. This month we explore the case for single-gender schools It’s no secret that boys and girls develop at different rates and supporters of single-gender education claim the absence of girls, removes pressure from boys, making them less competitive and more collaborative. Equally it’s suggested that girls in all-female environments, respond comfortably to questions, share their opinions and exhibit higher levels of self-confidence. However, advocates of coeducation argue that socialisation is a major aspect of learning and segregating girls and boys fails to prepare pupils for life in the real world, as it limits their opportunity to work co-operatively and coexist with members of the opposite sex. Some academic studies have focussed on different ways in which boys and girls learn. Supporters of single-sex education believe that by separating boys and girls, teachers
are better able to adapt their lessons to suit intrinsic gender characteristics and preferred learning styles. Conversely others argue that gender differences in learning are not consistent and good teachers can successfully incorporate a variety of learning styles within their mixed-gender classrooms. Research in favour of single-sex schooling has also claimed that educating boys and girls independently, helps reduce school failure and improves the academic performance of pupils. However other studies have shown that a school’s selection process has a significant part to play in its academic success and that there is a greater gap between pupils from different racial and socioeconomic backgrounds than between boys and girls.
For some, single-gender schools prevent the adoption of gender stereotypes, allowing both sexes to explore wider subject and career choices. Girls for example are free of the pressure to compete with boys in male-dominated subjects such as maths and science whilst boys can pursue traditionally feminine interests such as music and poetry. But those on the other side of the debate, argue that single-sex schools legitimise ‘institutional sexism’ by making exclusion acceptable and devaluing diversity. Moreover they assert that high-ability girls at coeducational schools are just as likely to study A-level physics and maths, as their single-gender counterparts. There are inevitably multiple factors to consider when deciding whether a single-sex school is suitable for your child and with research on both sides of the gender debate being somewhat equivocal, ultimately it is still for us parents to decide what’s best for our children’s individual learning style and needs.
What the schools say... “In a single-sex school all leadership roles are still on offer to pupils, so there is no question of anything being more ‘suitable’ for a boy or girl. Our relationship with Loughborough Grammar School means pupils get the best of both worlds, with a single sex education but with co-educational opportunities.”
“Boys do better in an environment which is crafted to suit them, an environment in which teaching content and style, and extra-curricular activities and clubs, are all focussed on what works for boys. They definitely enjoy being taught in an active environment, enjoy different subjects, different books and for the most part different sports.”
“Coeducation mirrors the modern diverse world we live in. Boys and girls work together to achieve success. A true co-educational school creates an environment where the pupils are comfortable in each other’s working company and oblivious to the matter of gender. There should be no ‘glass ceiling’ in a school.”
Gwen Byrom, Headmistress, Loughborough High School
Paul Fisher, Headmaster, Loughborough Grammar School
Christopher King, Headmaster, Leicester Grammar School
URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2014 55
PEOPLE & PLACES
Learning
HOLIDAYS
Whether you want to learn a new skill or simply rediscover a neglected passion, be inspired by the new wave of minibreaks Photography
Riding
Dressmaking
Want to get further than the autosettings on your digital camera? Check out a two-day digital photography course with Red Cloud Days from £180. There are weekend courses nationwide but one of the best is set in west London’s Richmond Park.
If you’re considering a riding holiday in the UK, what better place than the picturesque and tranquil setting of the Cheshire countryside. Equestrian Escapes offers from complete beginner to experienced rider packages. The beginner package includes 2 nights B&B in 4 star farmhouse accommodation, 4 private riding lessons and 4 stable management sessions from £315pp.
A real made-to-measure Chanel jacket costs thousands of pounds. At The Sewing School, in Ashby-de-la-Zouch, you’ll be shown how to make your own Chanel style jacket over the course of three days. Discover how to machine quilt the jacket, hand finish all the linings and seams, and the hand insertion of the sleeve. You’ll need to know your way around a sewing machine and a commercial pattern, but all other skills are taught.
On day one tutors work with up to 12 photographers on use of aperture, shutter speed, exposure control and other techniques. On day two you’ll head to Richmond Park to work to a creative brief based on the new skills you’ve acquired before convening for a critique and Q&A session. Accommodation is available at an extra charge at the 4 star classic Georgian, Richmond Gate Hotel. The next course is 13th-14th September 2014. Details available at www.redclouddays.co.uk
The stables are only a 10 minute drive away and are superbly located to enjoy some of the very best riding across Cheshire’s rolling pastureland. The farm house is located minutes away from the pretty town of Tarporley, with its old coaching inns and top-quality boutiques and for nights out Chester is only 15 minutes away. For availability and further details visit www.equestrian-escapes.com
The course costs £300 and includes light refreshments. Pattern, fabric, lunch and overnight accommodation is not included within the fee. This is a perfect staycation opportunity but for those preferring not to travel there are a number of B&B’s plus a Premier Inn within the local area. Next course 5th-7th November 2014. For further information visit www.schoolofsewing.co.uk
For 100s of learning holiday ideas both home and away check out www.golearnto.com URBAN FOX SEPTEMBER 2014 57
Rutland Water - one of my
favourite places
I got my first sewing machine when I was 9 years old
Last book you read
The Book Thief
MY WAY
Last film you saw
Heather Jacks Painter, dressage trainer and winner of The Great British Sewing Bee talks to us about her time on the show and her new project GoSew I first learnt to sew when I was 9 years old, when my aunt gave me my first sewing machine, but even before that, I made dolls clothes. The very first item of clothing I made for myself was a skirt. I cut the pattern out of a newspaper and off I went! The thrill of being able to create something and then wear it has never worn off. Over the years sewing had become a secret and necessary pastime for me. When I was younger it just wasn’t cool to wear homemade clothes, but back then, clothes were relatively expensive to buy, particularly the sort that I liked! Having watched the first series of The Bee, I thought “I can do that”. The night before the competition started, we all met up in a restaurant. Julie was last to arrive, and sat down beside me. She gave me a look up and down and said very little! Next day, after the first two challenges had been completed, we went back to the hotel and headed for the bar. Julie leant over and told me exactly what she thought of me! A right posh sounding (bleep) and she hadn’t thought she’d like me! I told her she had a very rural accent, and likewise! Needless to say, we both fell about laughing and have been the best of friends since. The biggest challenge on The Bee was to get through each task in the best way possible. I’m a slow sewer so my strategy was ‘simple but accurate’. My favourite assignment was the couture inspired dress as it was the only time in the competition that I could reveal my creativity and ability to
Non-Stop starring Liam Neeson Favourite TV Show The Great British Sewing Bee
of course!
Last place you went on holiday
The Maldives
Favourite local landmark
Rutland Water
Favourite designer handle difficult Dior for ultimate elegance fabrics. It allowed Most inspirational woma me to pull n Betty Boothroyd together elements of who I was, Favourite beauty brand where I came Clinique from, and what I did, and for those reasons I can honestly say I was proud of that final dress.
I was utterly astounded to win! When you’re in something like that, you lose all perspective and have no idea which way is up! Since The Bee, I’ve had opportunities to lecture, give demonstrations and get involved with all sorts of things, but the most important thing for me is to be able to pass on the skills I’ve learnt. We’re now in a sewing renaissance, with renewed interest in a fundamental skill and I feel that so many children these days want to sew but either can’t afford lessons or don’t know where to start. So I’ve started the ‘GoSew’ project, which takes place at Lutterworth College during the holidays and draws in children from around the area. Tuition is free and we’ve a wonderful band of experienced volunteers. There’s a lot of interest in the GoSew and I’m hoping to expand the project into Hinckley. Readers can follow our progress at heatherjacks.co.uk/blog
EA 80 Y RS EST.1934
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