Urban Fox - December 2013

URBANFOX Join the conversation

WIN Beauty

Treatments

worth £200

Maximum impact

December 2013

Family ties

CATE BLANCHETT EXCLUSIVE

THE ULTIMATE

GIFT GUIDE

Don’t shop without it!

Wow dresses for NYE

NOW WITH

INSTANT

All that

RETAIL

THERAPY

GLITTERS Shimmer in metallic this Christmas

Ringers Cottage, Oadby New Price £1,325,000 One of Leicester’s most renowned and prestigious residential addresses 0.6 Acre Plot Six Bedroom Home Three Storey High Specification Five Contemporary Bathrooms Double Garage Large Gated Return Drive Detached Rear Annex

Beauchamp Walk, Kibworth Prices £180,000 & £185,000 An exclusive new build development

by Barwood Homes Help to Buy Scheme Exclusive New Build Homes 3 x two bedroom terraced Completion 2014 Choice of Decor and Floor Finishes Laufen Bathrooms Handmade Kitchens

Stoughton Road, Stoneygate Price £299,950 Original features reconditioned to an exceptional standard Four Bedroom Victorian Terrace Abundance of Original Features Two Single Garages Two Reception Rooms Rear Garden Recently Redecorated No Upward Chain

T: 0116 270 5900 F: 0116 274 5732

info@fothergillwyatt.com www.fothergillwyatt.com

Glebe Gardens, Oadby New Price £425,000 Superbly spacious bungalow on a large and mature plot Private Shared Drive Three Bedrooms Triple Garages Large Living Room Open Plan Breakfast Room Conservatory Private Rear Garden Scope to Extend

Wyndale Road, Knighton SOLD - Similar Properties Required Extended 1930s semi detached Three Double Bedrooms En Suite Off Road Parking Decking to Rear Garden Double Glazed Close to Welford Road Popular Suburb of Knighton

Elm Tree Gardens, Stoneygate Price £314,950 An exclusive home in a prestigious courtyard setting Three Storey Semi-Detached Gated Development Four/Five Bedrooms First Floor Living Room Integral Garage Two Parking Spaces Walled Garden Close to City

Hello

It’s December so let’s get this party started with the Urban Fox Christmas edition.

This year it’s all about glamour! From Maximum Impact New Year’s Eve dresses and catwalk-toparty makeup trends, to this season’s opulent metallics; the fairy lights aren’t the only thing that’ll sparkle this Christmas.

COVER SHOT:

Entertaining at home but missing the ‘Nigella’ gene, then look no further than our easy delicious canapé recipes, plus classic cocktails with a festive twist. Deck the halls – and rooms - with our timeless vintage look for a picture-perfect soirée.

Long Tall Sally

Interact with us

If like me you’ve yet to start your Christmas shopping, check out our ultimate Gift Guide packed with stylish, desirable and entertaining gift ideas; perfect for all your family and friends. And with our AR technology you don’t even have to leave the warmth of your home to get the job done!

Download the free layar app to buy featured products, watch videos and more through your smartphone or tablet!

Once the New Year’s Eve party dust has settled, it’s an ideal time to take time out and treat yourself to a holiday or short break. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious Winter Hideaway or yearning for the slopes of Europe, we’ve got it covered in People & Places.

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Urban Fox is also taking a break in January but join us again in February with our Passion for Life edition. Need a Fox fix in the meantime? Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.

Christmas wishes from all at Urban Fox

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

FASHION & BEAUTY

8

URBANFOX

Shimmer in metallic! This look bringss a sense of opulence to the glamorou Christmas season

Embellished clutch bag £40, East

GOLD

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

glitters All that

Emazing Gold Bag £49, Dune Tabie Sequin Dress £199, Ted Baker Gold Trousers £39, La Redoute Rocco Shoes £70, Office Rhonda Sequin Skirt £79, Phase Eight

Lizzy High Top Trainers £150, Kurt Geiger Cerys Fitted Dress £185, L.K Bennett Groove Bag £49.95, Moda in Pelle

Per Una Silver Glitter Sandal £29.50, M&S Sequin Pencil Skirt £59, La Redoute Star Bag By Julian Macdonald £45, Debenhams Ombre Sequin Maxi Dress £299, Mint Velvet Alice Temperley Sequin Dress £299, John Lewis

23

Jala Shoes £150, Pied a Terre Autograph Dress £89, M&S

SILVER

BRONZE

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

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 9

Design by Paul Banks Printed by Spectrum Printing 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.

11

13

CONTRIBUTORS: Nick Edwards, Mark Goddard, Jake Harvey, Scott Leatham, Zoe Hubbard, Alan Cook, Debbie James, Rebecca Watts.

Lucy Cufflin

Cookery writer, caterer & retailer covering all things foodie

Jon Levy

Bringing you the latest in hair style, colour and product trends

Mark Sandall

Estate agent steering you through the property market

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 5

December 8

34

LIFE & WORK 29 Secret Santa

Amazing gifts for under £20 31 12 saves of Christmas

Avoid the January hangover

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 32 Reviews

December’s recommendations 34 Family ties

Cate Blanchett exclusive 37 What’s on

Activities for the whole family

FASHION & BEAUTY 8 All that glitters Sparkle in metallic 11 Maximum impact

Dresses with the WOW factor

47 Help to buy

Supporting first time buyers

41 Lucy’s Christmas kitchen

Making entertaining easy

49 Vintage Christmas

Create the look at home

43 Festive cocktails

Classic recipes with a Christmas twist

59 Tips from the potting shed

A little gardening know how

PEOPLE & PLACES

31

61 Diabetes is no masquerade

Charity fundraiser for diabetes 63 Winter hideaways

Our favourite UK boltholes

23 Here come the girls

Catwalk-to-party makeup trends

64 Dare 2B seen Set the slopes ablaze

HEALTH & WELLBEING

65 Piste de resistance

Best European ski destinations

25 Surviving Christmas

Will you make it?

66 My way Libby Nockles on cooking, flying and yoga

27 Beat the festive bulge

Limit the lbs but not the fun!

WIN A WARDROBE MAKEOVER from Abiti

44 A room for all seasons

Our energy saving tips

WINING & DINING

21 Tender loving hair

Winter-proof your locks

10

HOMES & GARDENS

18

WIN £120 GIFT

VOUCHER

from Christopher Scotney

22

WIN LUXURY

BEAUTY TREATMENTS from Femi

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 7

FASHION & BEAUTY

Emazing Gold Bag £49, Dune Tabie Sequin Dress £199, Ted Baker Gold Trousers £39, La Redoute Rocco Shoes £70, Office Rhonda Sequin Skirt £79, Phase Eight Embellished clutch bag £40, East

GOLD

Per Una Silver Glitter Sandal £29.50, M&S Sequin Pencil Skirt £59, La Redoute Star Bag By Julian Macdonald £45, Debenhams Ombre Sequin Maxi Dress (right) £299, Mint Velvet Alice Temperley Sequin Dress (left) £299, John Lewis

SILVER

glitters All that

Shimmer in metallic! This look brings a sense of opulence to the glamorous Christmas season

Lizzy High Top Trainers £150, Kurt Geiger Cerys Fitted Dress £185, L.K Bennett Groove Bag £49.95, Moda in Pelle Jala Shoes £150, Pied a Terre Autograph Sequin Dress £89, M&S

BRONZE

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 9

F&GUFOXNOV2013_Layout 1 24/10/2013 13:12 Page 1

WIN

A WARDROBE MAKEOVER AND £50 TOWARDS A NEW LOOK FOR 2014

Got a wardrobe stuffed full of clothes but nothing to wear?

Then you need a Wardrobe Makeover from celebrity stylist and boutique owner Michelle Taylor. Michelle, who runs Abiti Ladieswear in Stoneygate, is paid to root through your wardrobe, ditching the dross but saving the forgotten gems, and allowing room for garments for the new stylish you.

The Wardrobe Makeover, worth over £300, can help shape a whole new look to start the New Year with. One lucky Urban Fox reader could win a Wardrobe Makeover with Michelle plus £50 to spend in-store at Abiti to kick start their Winter Wardrobe.

For more information on Abiti visit www.abiti-ladies.co.uk or visit them on Facebook or Twitter @ AbitiLadieswear.

TO ENTER:

Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to editor@theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘ABITI’ in the subject bar. Closing date for entries is Monday 27th January 2014.

Terms and Conditions: This prize is non-transferable. No cash alternative is available.

The winner will be drawn on or after the closing date. The Editor’s decision is final.

SPECIALISTS IN DIAMONDS, COLOURED GEMSTONES, FINE JEWELLERY & WATCHES www.francisandgaye.co.uk First Floor, West Orchards Shopping Centre, Coventry. Tel: 02476 520040 Lower Mall, Highcross Shopping Centre, Leicester. Tel: 0116 253 8726

FASHION & BEAUTY

Maximum

1

2

Dazzle on New Year’s Eve in one of these stunning maxi evening dresses

4 3

5

1 Beaded Fishtail Dress £115, Miss Selfridge 2 Alice Temperley Sequin Dress £299, John Lewis 3 Sequin Detail Dress £149, Planet

6

4 Ambrosia Lace Dress £350, Reiss 5 Collette Collection 8 Dress £295, Phase Eight 6 Achille V-Neck Dress £34.99, Missguided

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 11

BROWNS LINGERIE ….Give Exquisite Lingerie from Browns this Christmas Lingerie 30-46 A-H Marie Jo * Lejaby Pleasure State * Lise Charmel Fantasie * Freya * Fauve Empreinte * Stella McCartney Swimwear All Year Round Hosiery * Nightwear Elle Macpherson * La Perla

Browns Lingerie Tel : 0116 270 7188 35 Francis St Stoneygate Leicester

LE2 2BE

* Sunday Opening in December * Free Gift Wrapping * Gift Vouchers *

Buy Online at www.BrownsLingerie.com & Collect Instore for Christmas

Opening August 2013 leICeSTer’S No.1 deSTINaTIoN STore For BagS 38 FrAnCis street, stoneygAte leiCester, le2 2Bd Ally CApellino . Angel JACkson . Atelier swArovski . ArmAni . Bill AmBerg . Comme des gArCons the BeAtles . Comme des gArCons wAllets . eAstpAk . kAte sheridAn lulu guinness . melissA vivienne westwood . miChAel kors . mosChino . orlA kiely . rAlph lAuren . red vAlentino . see By Chloe . tAmArA Fogle . wAnt les essentiels + more

www.maISoNdeSaCS.Com INFo@maISoNdeSaCS.Com FACeBook: lA mAison de sACs twitter: @mAisondesACs

opening times: tues - sAt 12 - 5

VISIT OUR MENSWEAR STORE: THe BUSINeSS, 360 welFord rd

the Finest mensweAr And produCts sourCed From all over THe world.

Opening August 2013

Shoes, Handbags & Accessories Shoes, Handbags & Accessories Stocking: Geox Stocking: Lucy Choi London Geox Castaner Lucy Choi London Pretty Ballerina Castaner Lupo Barcelona Pretty Ballerina Lamb 1887 Lupo Barcelona Shoes, Handbags & Accessories Wilbur & Gussie Lamb 1887 Mercy Delta & others Wilbur & Gussie Stocking:

Geox • Lucy Choi London • Castaner Mercy Delta & others Pretty Ballerina • Lupo Barcelona • Lamb 1887 Opening Hours: Wilbur & Gussie • Mercy Delta & others Tuesday – Saturday 10.00am – 5.00pm Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10.00am – 5.00pm

8 Church Gate, Loughborough LE11 1UD T: 801509 210606 E: info@luxe-shoes.co.uk Church Gate, Loughborough LE11 1UD www.luxe-shoes.co.uk T: 01509W: 210606 E: info@luxe-shoes.co.uk W: www.luxe-shoes.co.uk facebook.com/LuxeShoes1 facebook.com/LuxeShoes1

twitter.com/LuxeShoesLbro twitter.com/LuxeShoesLbro

URBANFOX gift guides

2 1

Gifts for

3

4

HER

Make her feel loved this Christmas

6

7

5

8 1 Elemis Pro-Collagen Limited Edition Marine Cream £99, John Lewis 2 Emerald Ostrich Bayswater Bag £4500, Mulberry 3 Antique Rose Bouquet Dressing Gown £75, Cath Kidston 4 Abahna Frangipani & Orange Blossom Perfume Atomiser, £15, Linden Aromatics, Stoneygate 5 Label.m Therapy Age Defying Range from £11.50, Toni & Guy, Leicester 6 Edith Textured Slipper £22, Fat Face 7 Stella McCartney Ellie Leaping Printed Balconette Bra & Briefs, £65/£35, Browns Lingerie, Stoneygate 8 Warm Candle Ritual £57 (for 90 mins), The Retreat, Oadby

The

RET REAT relax revive res

tore

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 13

S OA

R VA L L E Y B R I D E S Est.2000

Bridal, Bridesmaids & Special Occasion Wear Tiaras | Shoes | Veils by: Da Vinci • Trudy Lee • Impressions Alfred Angelo • WI by Pronovias New for 2014 - Intuzuri, Sonsie and Modeca

Alfred Angelo Designer Weekend 24-26th January 2+%4 "/37/24( 10%- !off RRP

7 High Street, Sileby, LE12 7RX | Tel: 01509 814306 | Flexible appointments www.soarvalleybrides.co.uk

+ ,,"'" &! 3 ( )/.7 % !2 Main stockists of: Condici, Ian Stuart, John Charles, Linea Raffaelli - to name but a few.

Sizes 8 to 24.

+ ,,"'" Over 2,000 stunning outfits for mums and guests.

&!3( ) /.7%! 2

+ ,,"'" & ! Visit 3 (our ) /website: .7%!2

www.dressini.com or email info@dressini.com

9-11 MARKET PLACE, MARKET BOSWORTH, CV13 0LF TEL: 01455 290234

+ ,,"'" + ,,"'"

MOTHER OF JANUARY & DECEMBER ! 3 ( ) / .&7 % !2 & !OF 3 THE (THE ) BRIDE /BRIDE . 7 %SALE !NOW 2THROUGHOUT MOTHER SALE ON

RJ

ROBINSONS CERTIFIED DIAMOND SPECIALIST

Diamond Engagement Rings Call Now - We Will Not Be Beaten on Quality and Price Email: adam@robinsonsjewellers.co.uk 16 Granby Street Leicester Tel: 0116 262 8714

The Arcade Leicester Rd, Wigston Tel: 0116URBAN 262 FOX8714 DECEMBER 2013

15

Christmas Gifts all wrapped up

130 - 132 London Road, Leicester LE2 1EB. Tel: 0116 254 3957 Free private car parking / Open 9am - 6pm Monday to Saturday / On site tailor EXTENDED CHRISTMAS OPENING HOURS:

SUNDAY OPENING: 11am-4pm on Sundays 15th & 22nd December LATE NIGHT OPENING: 18th, 19th & 20th December until 7pm.

Closed 25th & 26th December. REOPENING: Friday 27th December. available to buy online at: WWW.CHRISTOPHERSCOTNEY.CO.UK

URBANFOX gift guides

1 3 2

Gifts for HIM

4

6

5

A little something for the men in your life 7

1 Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte Palmes D’or Brut Vintage £85, John Lewis 2 Personalised Daddy Keyring £120, chambersandbeau.com 3 Merino Wool Hat & Gloves/Mittens £30/£45, Vélobici, Stoneygate 4 Fluffy Sock £8.95, Joules 5 Striped Wool Explorer Bag £229, barbour.com 6 Gentlemen’s Hardware Hip Flask £20, House of Fraser 7 Scaramouche & Fandango Wash Bag Set £29, Linden Aromatics, Stoneygate 8 Selection of gifts available at Christopher Scotney, Leicester

8

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 17

WIN

A £120 GIFT VOUCHER FOR HIM from

Courtesy of leading designer menswear store Christopher Scotney, Urban Fox is offering one reader the chance to win a gift voucher worth £120 -a perfect way to start 2014.

The Destination for mens designerwear and accessories Christopher Scotney is an expert in its field. Offering cutting edge casual wear, an unrivalled collection of formal wear and a treasure trove of designer accessories. The perfect store for those luxury Christmas gifts for him!

130 - 132 London Road, Leicester LE2 1EB. Tel: 0116 254 3957.

Extended Christmas Opening Hours: Sunday 15th Dec and Sunday 22nd Dec – 11am until 4pm Weds 18th Dec to Fri 20th Dec - 9am until 7pm

TO ENTER:

Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to editor@theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘Scotney’ in the subject bar. Closing date for entries is Monday 27th January 2014.

19 FRANCIS STREET - STONEYGATE - LEICESTER LE2 2BE TEL: 0116 274 5155 - EMAIL: INFO@VELOBICI.COM

Terms and Conditions: This prize is non-transferable. No cash alternative is available.

The winner will be drawn on or after the closing date. The Editor’s decision is final.

Voucher must be redeemed by 27 August 2014.

RACING IN STYLE. MILLE MIGLIA MILLE MIGLIA GMT

2013/144 - Aspirational Magazine / Lumbers - 003MM - 230 x 285 mm - UK - 20/09/13

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 19

50 1963/2013

5

1963/2013

1963/2013

using label.m Professional Haircare

For 50 years, TONI&GUY have pioneered strong, beautiful haircuts tailored to suit the individual and reflective of seasonal fashion trends. Your image is safe in our hands – Join the 1.5 million people that choose TONI&GUY each year.

For a Free style advisory session or to book and appointment call 0116 249 5790 TONI&GUY 15 MarkeT STreeT LeIceSTer Le1 6DN www.TONIaNDGUY.cOM

/toniandguyUk

@ toniandguyUk

FASHION & BEAUTY Try to avoid sodium packed shampoo and conditioner, as the salt is very drying on the hair.

Most salon brands have a sodium free range, so try swapping to these products for the colder months.

If your sun-lightened hair starts to dull down, ask your colourist to use a high-lift tint or a keratin rich bleach to achieve your highlighted look rather than a harsh bleach or pre-lightener.

Try to avoid aerosol products during winter, most will contain alcohol which is very drying to the hair. Try to choose pump action products instead.

If the sun has lifted your hair over the summer and you want to add the depth back to it, ask your colourist for a natural glossing service.

i & Guy, Leicester ts used by Jon at Ton label.m are produc

One of the biggest problems through winter is the static in the hair caused from leaving the heated environment of our homes and going into the freezing air. A good antistatic spray or spray shine should combat this.

Tender Loving

Hair

Remember that a tint cannot lift a tint, so if you’re already tinted dark, a bleach will have to be used to lift it out.

Ask your colourist for an alternative look that will not be as damaging.

Jon Levy, Artistic Director at Toni and Guy, Leicester reveals his tips for keeping your hair in tiptop condition through the cold winter months

An intense conditioner should only be used a few times a week as it can make the hair lifeless and heavy. Invest in a moisturising everyday conditioner in addition to your more intense hair mask.

If you have a water softener fitted to your home, just for the winter months try boiling the water you wash your hair in first, to reduce some of the salt content from pre-softened water.

your hair.

Try to use as little heat as possible on or curl hten straig then If you tend to blow dry, down cut to try it, wash you time every your hair ing wash e you’r the amount of times a week re on your your hair and/or drop the temperatu dryer to medium.

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 21

The

RETREAT relax revive restore

gift vouchers available

WIN

Decléor Christmas gifts now available

Retreat Ritual Experiences - see our website www.theretreatbeautysalon.com for details 54 London Road, Oadby, Leicester

0116 271 7183

LUXURY BEAUTY TREATMENTS WORTH £200

theretreatbeautysalon.com

One lucky winner could walk away with a £200 prize package of treatments from Leicester’s premier salon Femi Health & Beauty.

Using Decléor products, the winner could choose from a range of treatments including facials, massage, waxing and pedicures to prepare their faces and bodies for the New Year ahead. At the Award Winning city centre salon, the winner would be pampered, relaxed and treated in sanctuary conditions.

Femi Health & Beauty is located at 60 Highcross Street, Leicester, LE1 4NN. For more information call 0116 253 2393, visit www.femi-health-beauty.co.uk or search ‘Femi Health and Beauty’ on Facebook.

TO ENTER:

To be in with a chance to win this treat, email your name, address and contact telephone number inserting ‘Femi’ in the subject bar. Closing date for entries is Monday 27th January 2014.

Terms and Conditions: This prize is non-transferable. No cash alternative is available.

The winner will be drawn on or after the closing date. The Editor’s decision is final.

www.cliniquedebeaute.co.uk

W

inter can be cruel to skin – with cold, wet days, centrally-heated offices and lots of partying at night, by the time January comes around your skin could be on the critical list. Seize the opportunity to prepare your skin for winter, with an exclusive competition in Urban Fox.

• i-Lipo for fat reduction, inch loss & body shaping • Gentle YAG laser hair removal • Laser thread vein removal • Laser skin tightening • Megawhite laser teeth whitening • CACI non-surgical facelift • Microdermabrasion / Oxygen facial • Hot stone / Aromatherapy massage • Semi-permanent eyelashes • Waxing / Threading • Manicure / pedicure • Cal Gel / Shellac long lasting nail polish • PharmaClinix pigmentation reduction peel

Clinique de Beauté Laser & Beauty Clinic, 2 Southernhay Road, Leicester LE2 3TJ. 0116 270 9060

Buy £30 worth of vouchers and get £10 free Exclusive to Urban Fox readers only. Offer expires 1/1/14.

acebo Order now on

FASHION & BEAUTY

girls

Here come the

Sparkle this Christmas with our top 3 catwalk-to-party trends

METALLIC EYES

STAINED LIPS

RED NAILS

Eye Shadow Pigment, £17, MAC Magnificent Metals Foil Eye Shadow, £33.50, Stila Moondust Eye Shadow, £14, Urban Decay Sparkle Eye Shadow, £22, Bobbi Brown

Mulberry Lip Stain, £16.50, Laura Mercier Rouge Pur Couture Glossy Stain Lip Stain, £22.50, Yves Saint Laurent Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain, £7.99, Revlon Benetint Lip & Cheek Stain, £24.50, Benefit

Big Apple Red Nail Lacquer, £11.50, OPI The Boltons Polish, £11, Nails Inc. Jungle Red Opaque Nail Polish, £14.50, NARS Ruby Red Slippers Glitter Polish, £17, Deborah Lippmann

The metallic look has once again made its way onto the catwalk and it’s a fantastic way to make an entrance at the Christmas party. Be bold and go for a plum or purple as seen on the catwalk of Jason Wu and Gucci or play it safe with silver and golds.

Shown off at the Christian Dior and Prada AW13 shows, the stained effect lippy is a big trend this festive season.

Try it either with colour diffusing from the inside of the lips outwards or with a darker, berry-stained effect.

A noticeable increase in red nails was apparent backstage at the AW shows, with garnet shades at Burberry and bold tomato tones at Chanel, Valentino and Topshop Unique. Great for your party night out!

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 23

LINDEN AROMATICS

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

Surviving Christmas

During the festive season, it’s natural for families to feel some degree of stress or anxiety. So here’s our advice on how to get through the holidays unscathed

C

hristmas is meant to be the ‘most wonderful time of the year’, so it's hard not to fall into the trap of setting huge expectations. However this can leave you feeling disappointed, stressed and underwhelmed. Try to keep your expectations - whether gifts, children’s behaviour or family members realistic and achievable. It’s unlikely your 2 year old will get through Christmas lunch without some disruption.

Don’t be a martyr. It’s quite easy for women to take everything upon themselves and then feel irritated that no one is helping. Instead get everyone in the family involved in the preparations both before and on Christmas Day itself – writing Christmas card, wrapping presents, putting up the decorations. You really don’t have to do it all.

Be realistic about relationships. If things have been strained recently, don't expect Christmas Day or a New Year’s party

to fix everything. But before you rush to the divorce lawyers try to find some time to spend together alone, away from the Christmas shopping, wrapping and cooking. A little time-out can add new perspective to your relationship.

Get together as a family and write a list of what everyone wants to do. With older children, discuss family time and time with friends so you get a happy balance.

Also make a list of who needs to

see who over the holiday period. This is particularly important if you are part of a blended family.

If you are alone this Christmas talk to family and friends in advance and see if you can arrange to spend the day with them. Most people will be glad to include you, so don’t turn invitations down simply because you don’t want to put anyone out.

If you are going to stay with relatives or friends over Christmas, discuss beforehand who will do and pay for what to avoid any tensions on the day.

Every family has their own Christmas traditions from when to open the presents, to the time to eat. Try to work out a compromise to suit all, but failing that if you’re in their home, play by their rules. It won’t hurt for one year.

Finally, doing good things for other people makes us feel happier. Invite someone who is on their own this Christmas to spend the day with your family; do some charity work or help out serving meals to the homeless or elderly in your community. Caring and giving your time, can be one of the best gifts you give anyone this Christmas.

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 25

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New Year, New Start!

your first month’s sessions - visit nutrafit.co.uk for details

Keep the weight off this year Metabolic can help you lose weight and keep it off, by teaching you how to let your metabolism work for you.

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

Beat the festive

BULGE

It’s that time of year when many of us regain the weight we lost during the year. So we caught up with Rebecca Watts at Nutrafit, Leicester to find out how we can limit weight gain during the holiday season and still have fun!

Control alcohol intake

Enjoy Christmas dinner

Christmas is a busy period but the weight will pile on with little or no exercise. If you belong to a gym or exercise class don’t miss it completely simply change to another day/time to fit in with your festive schedule. If all else fails do something active on your own or with the family - a long walk through Bradgate Park or a bike ride around Rutland Water.

Fresh air, exercise and time together, a great way to spend those post-Christmas days off work/school.

This is the time of year when many of us drink more. Try to control this intake by alternating alcoholic drinks with low-calorie soft drinks or water and try to drink more moderately and slowly.

Set yourself some alcohol free days and you can even offer to drive to avoid the temptation.

It can actually be quite healthy. Fill your plate with turkey, – a lean, low in fat and calories meat - vegetables and only a couple of potatoes. Ensure you do not over-cook your vegetables and lose their nutrients.

Betty Barclay

Continue your exercise regime

Increase water intake Christmas often means more starchy and rich foods which can cause bloating and water retention. By keeping your water intake up, your body will tend not to hold as much as storage.

Eat healthy snacks Eat a healthy snack before going to parties where food will be served. This will help prevent you overloading on high calorie food. Things to avoid on buffets include fried foods, sausage rolls, crisps, and high calorie dips. Replace these if you can with carved meat, breadsticks, crudités, pretzels, salsa and tzatziki. Also try to balance out unhealthy foods at parties with healthy meals at home.

Avoid chocolate presents Gifts containing chocolate are so easy to buy so we all seem to get a least a couple of them each year. Tell all your friends and family that you are trying to make an effort this Christmas and would prefer not to receive them. They will understand and it may even encourage them to do the same.

Be in the mood for dancing Finally dancing is a great way to burn off any high calorie meals you indulge in over the festive season.

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 27

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URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 29

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LIFE & WORK

12 Saves of Christmas

1

Consider downscaling your Christmas list and agree not to buy for friends, extended family, work colleagues etc.

2

If you’re finding it hard to cull your list then how about a traditional Secret Santa approach. Choose a budget and everyone pulls one name out of a hat to buy for.

Image: HomeSense

Already counting the cost of Christmas?

There are dozens of ways to enjoy a fabulous family celebration without breaking the bank!

6

10

7

11

Shop online to find the best deals.

Even the high street stores have online flash sales in the weeks up to Christmas e.g. 25% discount for 2 days.

3

Another option is to give a gift that only costs you time. No not a Friends ‘Joey Love’ coupon! Gardening, babysitting, ironing are perfect gifts for busy Mums.

4

If you’re not giving time, then spend some time together. Forego gifts and throw a party for your friends and family instead. Everyone can bring something which spreads the costs.

5

If your children are young, save buying big ticket gifts until they are older and will appreciate them more. If they have toys which they no longer play with sell them on eBay and use the money to buy this year’s gifts or for that feel good factor, give the toys to charity.

Make a list before you go shopping and stick to it! Don’t let the Christmas atmosphere unleash the impulse buyer within you.

8

If you’re planning on a one-off family purchase - television, home cinema, games console etc. – wait until the New Year sales when it’s likely to be cheaper.

9

It’s easy to get carried away on spending money to make your home feel festive. Make your own decorations and table settings aka Kirsty Allsopp. It’s a great way to keep the kids occupied too.

If you still feel the need to send Christmas cards then look out for 3 for 2 offers and send by 2nd class post. Better still, hand deliver some and work off a few pounds before the festivities begin!

Down brand your food shopping.

You don’t have to go crazy, just drop one level to retain quality and taste but save money too. Also consider buying your vegetables loose in the supermarket or better still go to your local market.

12

Finally pay what you can on your cashback credit card to take advantage of this money saving facility. Remember to repay the whole amount on your card in one go, so as not to incur unnecessary interest charges.... ... Happy Shopping!

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 31

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

film REVIEW The Butler (12A)

2hrs 12mins Fri 13 - Thu 19 Dec at The Phoenix 0116 242 2800 | phoenix.org.uk Based on a true story, Cecil Gaines (Forest Whitaker) was the son of a sharecropper who grew up in America’s Deep South in the 1920s. Determined to forge his own career, Cecil became a hotel valet before rising to head butler at The White House where he served under 8 presidents. In a career spanning over 40 years, he was eyewitness to some of the most important events in modern America including the Vietnam conflict and the birth of the civil rights movement.

book REVIEW Books make fabulous Christmas gifts. Here’s a selection of our family favourites

Since his Oscar win for 2006’s The Last King of Scotland, Forest Whitaker has faded away from the limelight. However, with this sublime performance - in a role that perfectly suits his shambling softlyspoken charisma - expect Whitaker’s name to be mentioned a lot come awards season!

The huge supporting cast includes Alan Rickman, Oprah Winfrey, Vanessa

Redgrave, and a fiery turn from Brit David Oyelowo as Gaines’ eldest son who becomes involved in the Black Power movement. Some will accuse the film of being very ‘worthy’ (a charge also levelled at 2011’s The Help) and indeed parts are slightly too well intentioned, but when dealing with a subject this fascinating and with a superb ensemble cast giving it their all, we can forgive moments of melodrama.

My Bible Stories: The Nativity Story

by Sasha Morton, published in hardback by Octopus | £5.99 The story of the first Christmas delightfully presented and gorgeously illustrated. Follow Mary and Joseph as they travel to Bethlehem; see the star rise in the East and behold the shepherds and kings travel to see the baby Jesus, born in a manger.

Christmas Poems

by Gaby Morgan, published in hardback by Pan Macmillan | £10.99 This festive collection of classic and brand-new poems celebrates all the best things about Christmas from the Nativity to Father Christmas, including snow, angels, reindeer, Christmas trees and, of course, Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus. Decorated in full colour by Axel Scheffler, celebrated illustrator of The Gruffalo.

The Illustrated Christmas Cracker

by John Julius Norwich, published by Atlantic in hardback | £9.99

All books available from The Bookshop, Kibworth.

Tel 0116 279 1121 thebookshopkibworth.com

From curious dictionary definitions (‘carphology - delirious fumbling with the bedclothes’) and tortuous palindromes (‘Live dirt up a side-track carted is a putrid evil’) to eighteenth-century accounts of drunken pigs and Benjamin Franklin’s account of inventing bifocals, this cracker is stuffed with surprising, offbeat, often hilarious gems.

Enlivened by Quentin Blake’s witty illustrations, it is the perfect stocking-filler for the discerning book-lover.

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URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 33

Family

Ties

Oscar-winner Cate Blanchett talks to us about acting and the importance of family

C

ate Blanchett is a force of nature.

She’s the kind of fearless performer who throws herself into every role with a rare passion. Over the years, the willowy, fair-haired Australian actress has earned a reputation for creating characters as intense as they are fragile, earning a best supporting actress Oscar for The Aviator and a best actress nomination for Elizabeth.

Despite this, she’s never quite managed to win over audiences with a singular defining role, but is that all about to change following her role in Woody Allen’s film Blue Jasmine earlier this autumn, for which many critics and industry observers are touting her as an early Oscar favourite.

Blanchett plays the title character Jasmine, the estranged wife of a crooked Wall Street fund manager (Alec Baldwin) who is forced to leave her lavish Park Avenue life and seek refuge in her sister’s (Sally Hawkins) San Francisco flat.

Jasmine is alternately determined, refined, manic, and verging on a nervous breakdown, and Blanchett envelops us in her character’s crisis so compellingly that it more than makes up for some of the film’s narrative shortcomings.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

What were your impressions of working with Woody Allen?

Woody is intensely involved in his work as a writer and director and he's such a master at creating both drama and comedy. One of his great strengths is his ability to tap into universal themes and adapt them to contemporary issues.

Jasmine is facing the kind of ruin or financial difficulty that many people have faced in the recession that has hit so hard. The story was very well written and structured and the characters were fascinating.

You've said in the past how acting tended to be a very draining process for you, particularly with having a young family.

(Laughs) I was always tormenting myself

thing at times because children are very adaptable and they learn so much from the experiences that comes with travelling as they did with The Hobbit and being in New Zealand, but for their schooling it's been important that they've stayed in one place.

You've spoken in the past about how you grew up with your grandmother around and how that gave you a greater appreciation for the importance of family and roots?

Yes. I grew up with my mother and grandmother and experienced the sense of family history that comes with a household with three generations. You learn so much about life and I appreciated things I learned or observed from being close to my grandmother.

by pouring so much into every role. I was much more driven by my work before I had children because you tend to believe that the world revolves around you and all the roles you're taking on. But being married and having children removes you from that rather single-minded outlook. Now there's another world to occupy your energies and it's much more satisfying emotionally.

What kind of fulfilment does raising children bring to you?

Not on the work itself, but on how busy you want to be. I've lived a very peripatetic existence in the past, but my children deserved to be settled to a certain extent and I wanted to spend more of my time with them - not constantly uprooting them to be with me on one film shoot after another. Not that that isn't a good

Is it easier being a mother than being an actress?

Has raising children changed your outlook on your work?

I've enjoyed teaching my boys and being with them and watching them grow.

It's a purely extraordinary experience. I certainly feel that it's important for me to be a big part of their lives and give them the best possible upbringing. That's your responsibility as a parent and my husband is a fabulous partner in sharing that responsibility with me.

Cate with her ‘Blue Jasmine’ co-star Alec Baldwin

“I love being a mother.

It's the least stressful thing I do in life”

I love being a mother. It's the least stressful thing I do in life because acting has always been a source of anxiety for me even though that's the life I chose for myself. I relish everything that comes with being with my children.

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 35

THIS CHRISTMAS AT CURVE

BOOK BY FRED EBB AND BOB FOSSE MUSIC BY JOHN KANDER LYRICS BY FRED EBB BASED ON THE PLAY CHICAGO BY MAURINE DALLAS WATKINS PRESENTED BY ARRANGEMENT WITH SAMUEL FRENCH

DIRECTED BY PAUL KERRYSON MUSICAL DIRECTOR BEN ATKINSON CHOREOGRAPHER DREW MCONIE SET DESIGN AL PARKINSON COSTUME DESIGN TAKIS LIGHTING DESIGNER PHILIP GLADWELL SOUND DESIGNER BEN HARRISON

29 NOV – 18 JAN ENGINE HOUSE AND LAKESIDE PRESENT

RED RIDING HOOD A NEW VERSION BY MIKE KENNY DIRECTED BY MATT ASTON

11 DEC – 4 JAN

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

WHAT’S ON

DECEMBER 2013

Meet Santa

Fri 6, Sat 7, 14, 21 Dec Market Hall, Market Harborough £5 per child harboroughsanta.co.uk

The Market Harborough and Welland Valley Rotary Clubs, are arranging for Santa to visit the town, with his helpers.

Bring your children to meet the man of the moment and receive a small gift. What’s more all proceeds go towards the Rotary’s charities. Prebooking via the website is recommended.

Makers’ Mart Sat 7 Dec Curve, Leicester Free event lcbdepot.co.uk

Showcasing the work of the East Midlands' finest artists and designer-makers. The sixth Leicester Creative Bureau’s Makers' Mart is set to be the biggest and best celebration of stunning arts and crafts in Leicester!

Great for picking up unique, handmade Christmas gifts.

Christmas Toys & Steam Day Sun 8 Dec Abbey Pumping Station, Leicester Family Ticket £8 leicester.gov.uk/museums

Start the festive fun, listen to the live band play your favourite Christmas tunes in the engine house and marvel at the collections of toys from Christmas past. Take a ride on the steam train and listen to the jolly fairground organ play.

The museum’s collection of vintage vehicles will also be on display.

Stoneygate Christmas Market

Christmas Toys & Steam Day, 8 Dec, Abbey Pumping Station

Red Riding Hood

A Christmas Carol

Tickets £12 curveonline.co.uk

Tickets £6 demontforthall.co.uk

Once upon a time there was a young girl who went to spend the night at Grandma’s house… and her little brother came too! She just wanted to go to sleep but he was having none of it - Grandma’s attic is far too exciting for sleeping!

When you start acting out your favourite fairy tale who knows what’s in store? With music and songs from Julian Butler (Charlie and Lola), Red Riding Hood promises to be a magical treat for children and their families.

Part of the ‘Literature at Lunchtime’ programme and especially for the approaching festive season, Dr Jane Mackay is offering a new perspective on Dickens' most famous Christmas book.

This short story, written in only 6 weeks, changed society's view of the poor and renewed traditions to do with Christmas which would otherwise have died out. It deals with issues of social responsibility which are as hugely topical today.

Wed 11 Dec – Sat 4 Jan Curve, Leicester

Thu 12 Dec De Montfort Hall, Leicester

Sun 8 Dec Francis St & Allandale Rd, Leicester Free event

Stoneygate Christmas Market is the ideal opportunity to buy your last-minute stocking fillers. With mulled wine, festive choirs, bands, food & drink and craft stalls; this festive market is a perfect day out for all of the family.

Christmas at the Cathedral, 24 Dec, Leicester Cathedral

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 37

WHAT’S ON Vivaldi's Four Seasons

Thu 12 Dec St James The Greater Church, Leicester Tickets £10-£20 stjamesthegreater.org.uk

They are all professional freelance performers and between them have appeared with most of the high-profile period instrument groups including the English Concert, the Academy of Ancient Music, the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, the New London Consort, the King's Consort, the Sixteen Orchestra, and the Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra. The programme includes Vivaldi's Four Seasons, Telemann's Viola Concerto, Bach's Concerto for Two Violins in D minor, and Corelli's Christmas Concerto.

2013 - after a gap of almost 20 years. Especially written for them by Leicester lass and Hackney Empire Artistic Director Susie McKenna, this is going to be a blast. The panto will star Leicester's favourite Martin Ballard as one of the Chinese policemen, Hardeep Singh Kohli as the Genie of the Lamp and star of Little Miss Jocelyn, Jocelyn Jee Esien as the Empress of China.

Spirits of Christmas

Fri 20 Dec The Guildhall, Leicester Tickets £7 leicester.gov.uk/museums

It just wouldn’t be Christmas without a roaring fire and a

continued seasonal ghost story or two. This popular festive special, features stories with a Christmas theme and the ideal spine tingling treat in the rush up to the festivities. Chill out with some chilling tales!

show comes to life with an irresistible blend of music, puppetry and high energy storytelling. There’s plenty of fun along the way, with a very special appearance from Santa himself!

I’ve Seen Santa

Christmas at the Cathedral

Mon 23 Dec The Y Theatre, Leicester Tickets £5-£7 leicesterymca.co.uk

It’s Christmas Eve and Little Bear can’t wait to see Santa!

Blunderbus is proud to present this funny, festive tale with a very happy ending.

Little people will love this funny, heart-warming tale.

But, big people will have lots of fun, too. This delightful

Tue 24 Dec Leicester Cathedral Free event leicestercathedral.org

Hear the Christmas story in Bible readings and carols, and help build the new Christmas Crib with all the family. The Crib Service commences at 3pm. A wonderful way to start Christmas celebrations with your little ones.

A Traditional Christmas

Sat 14 Dec Belgrave Hall, Leicester Free event leicester.gov.uk/museums

Enjoy some traditional Christmas entertainment whilst keeping the cold away with mulled winter punch and delicious festive treats.

Watch Victorian dancers bring the Hall to life and enjoy the charms of an old-fashioned Magic Lantern show. There are also seasonal children´s craft activities in the old stable block.

Aladdin

Sat 14 Dec – Sun 5 Jan De Montfort Hall, Leicester Tickets £18 demontforthall.co.uk

It's back! The De Montfort Hall panto returns for Christmas

I’ve Seen Santa, 23 Dec, Y Theatre

CHILDREN HALF PRICE

ALADDIN Sat 14 Dec – Sun 5 Jan £18

ADULTS PAY KIDS PRICES

AN EVENING WITH BOYCOTT & AGGERS Sun 19 Jan // £22

DON QUIXOTE // Mon 27 Jan SLEEPING BEAUTY // Tue 28 Jan SWAN LAKE // Wed 29 Jan £19.50 - £35.50*

BRENDAN COLE LICENCE TO THRILL Sat 1 Feb // £27 - £33*

RENT IN CONCERT Wed 5 Feb // £22.50 - £29.50*

THE CLASSIC ROCK SHOW Thu 6 Feb // £22.50

PEPPA PIG Wed 12 – Thu 13 Feb £12.50 - £20*

FAME – THE MUSICAL Mon 7 – Sat 12 Apr £19.50 - £37.50*

VINCENT & FLAVIA DANCE `TIL DAWN Mon 28 - Wed 30 Apr £20 - £31

£3 transaction fee payable per booking *Concessions and/or group booking discount available Box Office Web Twitter

0116 233 3111 demontforthall.co.uk @demontforthall

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 39

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Seafood Restauruant & More

A relaxed, endearing space ideal for a restaurant serving simple, honest food & wine. Awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2013.

Join us for Nibbles and Tipples every Tuesday to Saturday from 6pm. Our nibbles start from just £2.50 each and, along with a glass of wine, they are the perfect way to unwind after a long day.

Push the boat out and have The Captains Table, a special menu with lots of courses and lots of flavours. Just let us know your likes and dislikes and we’ll do the rest!

From £35.00 per person No 9 Station Street, Kibworth Beauchamp, LE8 0LN. Telephone 0116 279 6260 lighthousekibworth.co.uk

WINING & DINING

Christmas Canapés

Delicious, simple and can be made in advance Mustard & Honey Mini Sausages You’ll need 30 pre-cooked cocktail sausages, 2 tablespoons honey and 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard and a dash of Worcestershire sauce. Coat the sausages with the other ingredients and put into a roasting tin. Cook uncovered for 10 minutes or until sticky. You can store for a day in the fridge then simply re-heat.

Lucy’s

Christmas Kitchen

Daunted by the thought of cooking for your Christmas Day guests? Don’t panic, Mum and Chef, Lucy Cufflin gives us the lowdown on how to make entertaining easy

Stilton & Cranberry Scones Bake a batch of scones up to 5 days ahead using a 3cm cutter so they are really small. Store in a plastic bag to keep them fresh. On the day mash stilton with a little cream cheese to make a rough paste and pile it on half-scones and top with a little spoon of cranberry sauce.

Never cook something you have not made before - tempted to try out that gorgeous new recipe you found in that magazine last week? Make a mini version for yourself a few days before. Not all recipes work and it’s best to find out before the big day!

Write a list – of what you need to buy and then follow it! It will stop you buying too much but ensure you have what you need. Remember there won’t be any shops open on Christmas Day for emergency purchases.

Plan your time - of when you need to cook and when. This does not have to be detailed, but it will help you use what little time you have in the best way.

Give yourself plenty of time to do any task – that means if the telephone rings or children demand your time, you still have time to get it done. And if by some miracle there are no distractions and you’re ahead of schedule, indulge yourself and sit down with a glass of wine!

If anything can be prepared ahead, do it – this includes peeling vegetables, stuffing the turkey, making the pigs in blankets and bread sauce. The more done the night before means the less stressed you’ll be on the day when your guests arrive.

Ask your family for help – preparing food, folding napkins, laying the table, wrapping gifts for your guests. Put Christmas music on and have fun sharing the chores. This is sometimes one of the best bits of Christmas Day.

Smoked Salmon Roulades To make 12 you’ll need 2 flour tortilla wraps, 100g cream cheese & 150g smoked salmon. Spread a layer of cream cheese onto the wrap. Cover the 1/3 nearest you with smoked salmon, then roll it tightly away from you. Wrap it in cling-film overnight, then slice into 6-8 slices and serve spiral upwards. These can be made up to 2 days ahead.

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 41

Fresh, unique, intriguing.

Introducing our new Nepalese menu. Each unique dish is made with the freshest high-quality ingredients, and is full of intriguing tastes you won’t find anywhere else in Leicester.

10 Friar Lane, Leicester LE1 5RA TheBankersClubLeicester 0116 262 1932 |

A great night out…

In December we have got a packed programme of Murder Mystery nights and festive Discos, so why not book a party with your neighbours or colleagues by phoning on 01509 412167. If you bring 4 people along we will give you a complementary bottle of wine, quote “Christmas party offer”.

Spare rooms for Christmas…

Are you unsure how all your friends and family will fit into your home this Christmas? If so, we’re here to help with our ‘Spare Bed at Christmas’ offer.

Simply call us on 01509 412167 quoting ‘spare bed for Christmas’ to take advantage of our special discounted offer of £45 for a single or £65 for a double room on a bed and breakfast basis (additional children under 12 years old will be charged at £10 each).

88 Wood Lane, Quorn, Leicestershire, LE12 8DB

Tel: 01509 412167 mail@quorngrangehotel.co.uk www.quorngrangehotel.co.uk

WINING & DINING

Festive Cocktails

Looking for inspiration for this year’s Christmas or New Year’s Eve party? We asked Scott Leatham, at The Banker’s Club, Leicester, to share some of his favourite cocktail recipes with a festive twist

The Christmas Cookie

The traditional mix of Baileys Irish Cream and Créme de Cacao Blanco gets our festive makeover in the form of a peppermint kick to invoke an after-dinner mint flavour.

25ml Baileys 12.5ml Crème de Cacao Blanc 12.5ml Crème de Menthe 25ml Cream 25ml Milk Method: Fill the Boston glass with cubed ice and add all the ingredients.

Attach the Boston tin and shake until well chilled (15-20 seconds). Fine strain into a pre-chilled stemmed cocktail glass.

L’eau de Vie, pour l'Hiver

Our signature Old Fashioned Cocktail, this time based on the mouth-watering Courvoisier Exclusif Cognac, with a hint of ginger.

50 ml Courvoisier Exclusif Dash Orange Bitters 5 ml Warmed Honey Slice of Fresh Ginger Orange Peel Method: Heat a brandy glass, pour the cognac straight in and allow to warm. Stir in the honey until completely dissolved, add orange bitters and a couple of drops of juice from the ginger, and stir again. Fold orange peel between finger and thumb, and caramelise the rind juices through an open flame over the drink.

Sip slowly and savour.

Apple and Cinnamon Sidecar

The traditional prohibition-era cocktail in seasonal dress: dark and complex Cognac and Calvados undercutting the sharpness of fresh, homemade Apple and Cinnamon purée.

25 ml Green Apple Purée 37.5 ml Courvoisier VS 12.5 ml Calvados

12.5 ml Lemon Juice Pinch Cinnamon Powder Apple Slice

Method: In a Boston glass, add all ingredients apart from apple slice. Separately chill a stemmed cocktail glass with ice and water. Fill the Boston glass with cubed ice, attach Boston tin and shake hard for 10-20 seconds. Serve straight up in the chilled glass. Dip the apple slice in sugar to prevent it browning, then use as a garnish. Traditionally, best drank in 3 long sips.

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 43

HOMES & GARDENS

A

ROOM for ALL SEASONS With millions of consumers facing higher energy prices in the New Year, we asked Alan Cook, Senior Design Consultant at EAS in Oadby, for advice on how to create a room for use in both the summer and winter without breaking the fuel budget

FLOORS

Whether you opt for a conservatory or orangery the first element to consider is the floor. A concrete base, with insulation and a damp proof membrane creates a solid foundation for preserving energy.

You can also lay a ceramic tile or laminated floor, enhanced with an under-floor heating system that is surprisingly economic to run.

WALLS

An orangery will allow you the option to have plastered finished walls with cavity wall insulation, the same specification as a new build house. In addition to the energy efficiency, the walls also offer design flexibility. They can be low level offering full views of the garden, three-quarter height to enable high-level glazing to throw extra light into the room; or full height, ideal for wall mounted televisions, photographs, artwork etc.

WINDOWS & DOORS

Aim for windows and doors that are A-rated for energy efficiency. Or alternatively consider triple glazing which has the same great look as double glazing, but is far more superior in terms of thermal efficiency. There are also new developments such as the Loggia® from Ultraframe, rapidly being described as the ‘up-market Orangery’.

Aluminium strips between panes are replaced with WarmEdge Supaspacers®, a non-conductive, virtually indestructible compound; whilst the inner pane of glass has a heat reflective property which means you no longer heat your garden!

ROOFS

Whilst polycarbonate roofs have significantly improved, glass - although more expensive - is nevertheless the more commonly preferred option. Choose a roof that is solar controlled for maximum comfort and energy efficiency in both the summer and winter months. Subtle hints of colour give an improved outlook even on a cloudy day; whilst the new ‘self-cleaning’ properties mean it never has that grubby appearance of polycarbonate.

But probably best of all, glass doesn’t have the noise levels that accompany a polycarbonate roof on a rainy day!

Finally, as we approach the festive season, your new ‘room’ - be it a garden room, open-plan kitchen, dining room or even a second lounge, is a great place for a Christmas tree. The increased height allows you a bigger tree than ever, the flooring makes it easier to sweep up any falling needles and best of all, it’s not just the heat that reflects off the surrounding glass - so do all the fairy lights and baubles!

WINDOWS | DOORS | CONSERVATORIES | FASCIAS

Love coming home this Christmas You can be sure of a warm welcome with EAS.

Call us today on

0116 2710120

www.easwindows.co.uk

Showhome at 25 New Street, Oadby, Leicester, LE2 5EB URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 45

SOLD

OADBY

St David’s Crescent

SOLD

An extremely well presented, maintained, spacious and extended four/five bedroomed detached family home situated on a generous plot within the highly regarded and sought after residential area of Oadby. The property benefits from well proportioned rooms and offers excellent scope for further extension subject to receiving the necessary planning consents, together with gas fired central heating and UPVC double glazing throughout. Accommodation includes: Entrance hall, cloakroom, w.c., study, kitchen/family/dining room, utility room, dining room, sitting room, garden room. First floor: Master bedroom suite with dressing room (bedroom three) and en-suite bathroom, guest bedroom with en-suite shower room, three further bedrooms and family bathroom. Outside: Double garage, lawns and landscaped gardens to front, side and rear. EPC Rating D.

STONEYGATE Knighton Grange Road

SOLD

SOLD

STONEYGATE Stoneygate Road

SUBJECT TO CONTRACT

A beautifully presented and appointed period six bedroomed semi detached property situated in a convenient and popular position within the heart of Stoneygate within a short walking distance of the fashionable local shops on Allandale Road and Francis Street and handy for local state and private schooling. The property retains many period features and in brief comprises: Entrance hall, delightful drawing room with ornate open fireplace, sitting room with open fireplace, superb open plan living/dining kitchen, rear hallway, cloaks/wc. First floor: Master bedroom with luxuriously appointed en suite bathroom, two further bedrooms and family bathroom. Second floor: Three further double bedrooms and bathroom. Outside: Ample off road parking, single garage and south facing mature rear gardens. EPC Rating E.

If you’re buying or selling this winter,

A detached family home on one of Leicester’s most desirable roads. Kingswood House retains a wealth of period features including leaded stone mullion windows, open fireplaces, exposed ceiling beams and decorative cornicing. The generously proportioned family home briefly comprises: Entrance porchway leading to large reception hallway with staircase to first floor, large front lounge, snug/office, rear sitting room, inner hallway with w.c., bar room, boot room/utility, dining room, breakfast kitchen, secondary staircase to first floor. First floor: Substantial landing with leaded, mullioned windows, master bedroom with bay window, bedroom five/nursery, family bathroom, three further bedrooms, separate shower room. Outside: In/out driveway providing ample car standing, extensive garaging with useful room over. Mature gardens. EPC Rating E.

STONEYGATE Knighton Drive

A unique, six bedroomed semi detached period property requiring modernisation & improvement and situated on one of Stoneygate’s most sought after roads. The substantial home benefits from a wealth of period features, previously having been split into two properties with a ground floor & lower ground floor apartment/annexe with accommodation comprising: Sitting room, dining room, hallway providing access to the main dwelling, breakfast room, kitchen. First Floor: Bedroom, bathroom, separate w.c. & superb sitting room/further bedroom. The main accommodation accessed from the main hallway with delightful Minton tiled floor with stairs to first floor, half landing with shower room, dining kitchen, sitting room. Second Floor: Bedroom with en-suite, three further bedrooms and store.

Outside: front garden area, extensive off road parking. EPC Rating E.

HOMES & GARDENS

HeTOlp

buy

We asked Mark Sandall, Joint Managing Partner at the Leicester branch of Andrew Granger & Co. to explain his views on the second phase of the government’s ‘Help to Buy’ scheme

M

any people working in the property industry were surprised when the government brought forward the second phase of the ‘Help to Buy’ scheme to the start of October. Some have concerns that the government may be acting too hastily, risking damage to the recovering housing market, whilst supporters argue that it will help to stimulate further growth.

Getting first time buyers onto the property ladder is essential to injecting movement into the market, which is where ‘Help to Buy’ comes in. Phase One, which came into effect in April of this year, gave buyers access to a 20% equity loan from the government on top of their 5% deposit. Whilst Phase One applied only to newly built properties bought by first time buyers, Phase Two applies to all properties with a ceiling value of £600,000 and more buyers are eligible for the scheme.

Phase Two enables borrowers to put down a deposit of as little as 5% creating concern that this could spark a return to irresponsible lending. In a bid to prevent this happening, the scheme excludes interest-only and offset mortgages, whilst borrowers will still have to undergo rigorous financial checks. Those seeking lending for second homes and/or buy-to-let will not be eligible.

There is also an element of surety built into Phase Two. Lenders taking part in the scheme pay a fee to the government, providing a 7 year taxpayer guarantee covering 15% of the loan value which can be called in if the borrower defaults.

Whilst the abruptness of Phase Two’s introduction has taken many lenders by surprise, at least two thirds have now signed up to the scheme. Some lenders have already launched new products through the scheme, whilst others such as HSBC and Virgin Money will release theirs over the next two or three months. Interestingly, some lenders are offering deals with better rates than those available through ‘Help to Buy’. For example, Clydesdale and Yorkshire Banks have cut the rates on their three year fixed rate mortgages for those with a five per cent deposit to lower than those currently offered through the ‘Help to Buy’ scheme.

Phase One of ‘Help to Buy’ certainly seems to have had an impact on the market with the Council of Mortgage Lenders reporting that the number of loans approved for first time buyers rose by 33% in August 2013 compared with August 2012. With a two bedroom property in Leicester currently fetching around £123,000, the ‘Help to Buy’ scheme leaves buyers needing to find just over £6,000 as a deposit – a more attainable figure for many. It remains to be seen what impact Phase Two will have on the overall market, but it seems to be good news for now - for first time buyers at least.

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 47

MJ-Maison Urban Fox November.pdf

2

14/11/2013

15:59

The Light House

IMPORTERS . INSTALLERS LIGHTING RETAILERS . WHOLESALERS

YOUR LOCAL LIGHTING SPECIALIST

LIGHTING DESIGN SERVICE AVAILABLE

107A/B Hinckley Road, Leicester, LE3 OTD • Tel: 0116 233 0303 www.lighthouse-leicester.co.uk • sales@lighthouse-leicester.co.uk Open: Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm • Sunday 11am-4pm

HOMES & GARDENS

Vintage House of Fraser

Christmas

1

Decorating the tree is the most important part of your vintage-look Christmas. Keep it light and simple using a combination of silver and white baubles. Use lots of fairy lights to give the tree that extra special twinkle.

Finally if you’re feeling creative, consider tying lace & ribbon bows on the ends of the branches for that genuine vintage feel.

All things ‘vintage’ continues to be a strong trend this Christmas.

We asked Zoe Hubbard, interior designer at Maison Interiors in Oadby, how we can create the look at home House of Fraser

2

To create a traditional Christmas ambience, fill your home with the smell of spiced cinnamon & warm Cedarwood. To produce a visual as well as aroma experience, use a combination of candle-sticks, tealights and vintage inspired candles.

3

Next

Wow your Christmas dinner guests with this effortless picture frame idea. You can be as creative as you like, so start collecting various sized/shaped baubles or try using tinsel, holly or mistletoe.

With these you can create a beautiful vintage centre piece for the mantelpiece or window sill.

4

Adorn your Christmas table with oversized candelabras, pinecones and an assortment of antique jars and bottles containing seasonal foliage. Pearls, ribbon and lace are great for table runners and napkins. You can even try making your own.

5

Snuggling down to watch another Christmas special after a delicious Turkey dinner, luxurious throws and cushions will help give the space that cosy winter feel.

Textures such as faux fur, deep velvets, cashmere & wools are great for that authentic vintage appearance.

If you need more inspiration, look no further than an episode of Downton Abbey or if you’re feeling creative watch Kirstie’s Vintage Home on 4oD. URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 49

Realise your dreams...

Realise your dreams..

To relaunch the recently refitted showroom, Dewhirsts are holding an open day on Saturday 11th June 2011 from 11 am.

Kitchens & Bedrooms

Kitchens & Bedrooms

Over 55 years of award winning kitchens in Leicester No two kitchens are the same. Yours will be unique. A one off that we create for you. Simple forms, new materials, new designs to accommodate your living style, whilst still providing uncompromising quality, precision manufacturing with outstanding craftsmanship and design.

Complete Kitchens fitted from £5,999 With kitchens ranging from £5,999 - £60,000, our extensive range includes the German Classic kitchen package. Priced at a competitive £5,999 it offers hundreds of style and colour combinations - choose from shiny, matt, country and shaker styles. FREE Neff Dishwasher Offer! Ask in-store for details.

Dewhirst Kitchens are now into their second year of designing and fitting Daval bedrooms. It is now even easier to realise your dreams with a genuine 25% discount. We are the region’s exclusive supplier and have transformed many rooms into organised and peaceful retreats with a wide range of storage systems.

Registered through: KBSA

0116 218 255 2008 5745 WWW.DEWHIRSTKITCHENS.CO.UK OUR LEICESTER SHOWROOM IS LOCATED AT 98 GRANBY STREET, LEICESTER LE1 1DU

URBANFOX gift guides

1

2

Gifts for the 3

FAMILY

4

5 6

Spend some quality time together this Christmas

7

1 Giant Snakes & Ladders £69.99, jaqueslondon.co.uk 2 National Trust Family Membership from £45.37, nationaltrust.org.uk 3 Logo Board Game £26.39, toysrus.co.uk 4 Kids Book Club from £29.99, thewilloughbybookclub.co.uk 5 Primate Tour at Woburn Safari Park £299, virginexperiencedays.co.uk 6 Sony PlayStation 4 £349, amazon.co.uk 7 12 Days of Christmas Cupcake Kit £16.50, vivicelebrations.com 8 Johnny Loco Earl Grey Cargo Bike £1,999, John Lewis

8

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 51

Evans

Fireplace Centre

Crystal Globe Pendants

Hattons

Curtain Makers

1159 Melton Road, Syston, Leicester LE7 2JS. Tel: 0116 2600772 Email: sales@firecraft.co.uk www.evansfireplaces.co.uk Open: Mon - Fri 9.00am - 5.30pm, Sat 9.00am - 5.00pm, Sunday 11.00am - 2.00pm

• Curtains • Pelmets • Blinds • Valances • Cushions

THE ONE-STOP CURTAIN SHOP THAT COMES TO YOU

Large range of fabrics to choose from, Over 50 years experience, Competitive prices, Quality advice and service.

YOU CAN NOW TRY OUR MAKING UP SERVICE USING YOUR OWN FABRIC

Call now on 0116 255 9077 www.hattonscurtainmakers.co.uk

HALF PRICE CURTAIN MAKING

THROUGHOUT JANUARY (excludes own fabric)

Kitchens | Bathrooms | Construction supply only or full project management

Bathrooms By V&A | Kitchens By Mereway Expert design & installation by Oaklands

OAKLANDs EST.1911

7-11 welford road | blaby | leicester | le8 4ft Open: www.oakland-leicester.co.uk Mon-Fri 10-5 info@oakland-leicester.co.uk URBAN FOX DECEMBER Sat 20139-4 53 Tel: 0116 2772252

V E LV E T F O X I N T E R I O R S

Make a change...

Cornerhouse Interiors has become Velvet Fox Interiors.

Now you can transform your home by paying us a visit.

SatuSALE S rday TAR 4th TS Janu ary

image supplied by Harlequin Fabrics

Top quality fabrics, wallpapers & paints by LINWOOD, HARLEQUIN, COLE & SON, SANDBERG, DESIGNERS GUILD, PRESTIGIOUS TEXTILES, FARROW & BALL, LITTLE GREENE AND MORE We stock a wide range of home furnishing products such as FURNITURE • DECORATIONS • GIFTS • BLINDS • LIGHTING • SHUTTERS AND MUCH MORE Velvet Fox Interiors, 3 High Street, Quorn, Leicestershire LE12 8DS. Open Tuesday - Saturday 0930 - 1700 Call us on 01509 415568 or visit our website at www.velvet-fox.co.uk for more information.

URBANFOX gift guides

1 2

Gifts for HOME BIRDS

3

4

Perfect presents for those that don’t stray from the nest

6 5 1 Dargle Lambswool Throw £89.95, iapetus.co.uk 2 Reindeer Wine Rack £23, notonthehighstreet.com 3 Ruark DAB/FM Radio £179.99, Around Sound, Stoneygate 4 Jewelled Clock £14, Next 5 Orla Kiely Home £22.60, Waterstones 6 Emma Crockery from £3, theorchardhomeandgifts.com 7 Charleston Table Lamp £158, Broughtons, Anstey 8 Frankincense & Allspice Single Wick Candle £36, Molton Brown

7

8

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 55

Holme Tree Kitchens...

Handmade bespoke kitchens, bedrooms, studies and bathroom furniture made by us in our workshop in Ashby de la Zouch.

From traditional to contemporary designs to suit all tastes.

Come and visit our stunning showroom at: Unit G3 Ivanhoe Business Park | Smisby Road | Ashby de la Zouch | LE65 2UY Telephone 01530 564561 Christmas hours: We will be closed from 3.30pm on Friday 20th December until 9am January 11:02 6th 2014.Page 1 Urban FoxMonday 20/11/13

HOLME TREE

www.holmetree.co.uk

Live a greener life in Ratby From Homes with ‘Eco features’ to a stunning and unique rural barn Newly released homes include: 4 Bed Detached, 3 bed Semi-detached houses and 2 bed Semidetached bungalows.

Conveniently located only 5 miles from Leicester City Centre, Ratby is on the Southern edge of the National Forest.

Showhom e

O PE 12-4pm N Fr Sat & Su i, n

Visit our showhome at Fielding Meadow at the top of Fielding Lane, off Ferndale Drive, Ratby.

Sat Nav - LE6 0AS

Unique barn in rural Ratby Reduced to £425,000 High specification includes:

• Magnificent double height living with elegant spiral staircase leading to the raised gallery • Spacious Master Bedroom with En-suite - 3 further bedrooms plus Bathroom

Find out more by calling 0116 239 0600

or click cawrey.co.uk for lots more...

CAWREY LIMITED Kirby Grange Farm, Taverner Drive, Ratby, Leicester. LE6 OHQ

www.cawrey.co.uk

Dro Seas on p in of m for a c ’s gre etin om ulle pl d eve g ry d wine a imenta s! ay u nd m ry g ntil l Chr ince p ass istm ie as.

Making your home more beautiful carpets • smooth flooring • rugs • curtains Drop in to our local showroom to browse, choose and place your order now to enjoy fitting by our expert team before Christmas.

Tel: 0116 255 5043 www.dalkardelliott.co.uk 260 Aylestone Lane Wigston Leicester LE18 1BD Ample free customer parking

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 57

JANUARY OFFERS AVAILABLE

Add light and space to your home

Coles CHRISTMAS MARKET

Co le s CHRISTMAS MARKET

Would you like somewhere to just sit back and admire your garden?

Friday 13th December | 3pm – 9pm

Friday 13th December

INCLUDING...

3pm - 9pm * * * * * *

Local Organic Produce Santa’s Grotto Hot Food Mulled Wine Raffle Music

Coles Plant Centre

* Local Organic Produce * Santa’s Grotto * Hot Food For more information, call Harveys Wine FREE ENTRY on 0116 233 4441 * Mulled All welcome th Raffle| 3pm Friday 13 Decem*ber – 9pm Showroom: Music Empire Road, Leicester LE3 5HE * Open Weekdays 9-5, Saturday 10-1 Adding a conservatory can be a relatively low cost, hassle free way to extend your living area whilst adding value to your home.

Raffle prizes will include gifts from all our stall holders, plants , gift vouchers, and much more!

Bring along one of our flyers to the market and we’ll even give you a free raffle ticket!

For more details visit our new website www.colesplantcentre.co.uk

info@colesplantcentre.co.uk | 0116 241 8394 | Uppingham Road, Thurnby, Leicester LE7 9QB

info@harveyswindows.co.uk www.harveyswindows.co.uk

INCLUDING...

* * * * * *

Local Organic Produce Santa’s Grotto Hot Food Mulled Wine Raffle Music

FREE ENTRY

Coles Plant Centre

Raffle prizes will includ e gifts from all our stall holder s, plants, gift vouchers, and much more!

Bring along one of our flyers to the market and we’ll even give you a free raffle tic ket!

All welcome

3 0116 239 223

For more details visit our new website www.colesplantcentre.co.uk

FREE ENTRY All welcome

info@colesplantcentre.co.uk | 0116 241 8394 | Uppingham Road, Thurnby, Leicester LE7 9QB

For more details visit our new website

www.colesplantcentre.co.uk

0116 239 2233

info@colesplantcentre.co.uk | 0116 241 8394 Uppingham Road, Thurnby, Leicester LE7 9QB

Tips from the

POTTING SHED This month’s tips are courtesy of Mark Goddard of Coles Plant Centre

At Christmas I have always given sweets and chocolates as presents, however this year I have decided to give house plants. Could you please recommend some attractive, flowering plants?

There are several different varieties of Cyclamen available in various colours, many of which are well worth considering. With Cyclamen the flowers rise above the attractive and often ‘frilly’ leaves, giving a fantastic display. Try to find a slightly cooler location for Cyclamen, as they don’t like to be too warm.

Again available in a variety of colours, Azaleas are very popular choice as the flowers tend to last for a longer period than many other species. They are rather

thirsty and very partial to being dunked in a bucket of water once in a while!

For something different you could consider Solanum capsicastrum (Christmas cherry); loaded with bright orange fruits, this lovely little compact plant likes to be kept moist.

Christmas bulbs make lovely cheap and cheerful gifts; Dwarf Narcissi and Hyacinths both produce a fragrant flower around Christmas, and are available in a host of different colours.

Azalea

Finally a favourite of mine is the Orchid. Orchids are very exotic looking and flower for months on end. The modern varieties are usually incredibly simple to look after, needing little to no maintenance.

Last year my Christmas tree dropped more needles on the floor than remained on the tree! How can I better preserve my traditional spruce’s foliage this year?

Generally people like to get in early to purchase their Christmas trees, making sure they get the best of the crop. The problem with that is the tree is placed inside your house; in warmer, dryer conditions, earlier than necessary which leads to needle-drop.

Traditional spruce

I would strongly recommend not bringing your tree into the house until a bit nearer to Christmas. Until you’re ready to bring the tree inside lay the tree in your garden but not on concrete as this can suck the moisture out of the trees needles. When

you are ready to bring the tree in, chop the bottom inch off to expose the fresh wood, allowing the tree to easily uptake water.

Purchase a tree stand that holds water and fill twice weekly. Place your Christmas tree away from radiators wherever possible as the warm, dry air, is the worst thing possible for Christmas trees.

Finally non needle-drop sprays are also available, but make sure you spray the tree before you bring it inside!

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 59

Way of life!

Way of life!

THE THEALL-NEW ALL-NEW SX4 SX4

S-CROSS S-CROSS

FROMONLY ONLY FROM

£14,999** £14,999 You name the SX4 S-Cross hasit.it.A Aspacious spacious You name it, it, the SX4 S-Cross has cabin and bag-gobbling boot.

Thereassuring reassuringsafety safety cabin and bag-gobbling boot.

The ALLGRIP 4-wheel Drive.

Evenclass-leading class-leadingfuel fuel of of ALLGRIP 4-wheel Drive.

Even economy.

Once you see you’llhave havetotohave haveit itall. all. economy.

Once you see it,it, you’ll

SturgessSuzuki Suzuki Aylestone AylestoneRoad, Road,Leicester LeicesterLE2 LE27QN 7QN Sturgess

0116366 3660310 0310 www.sturgessgroup.com www.sturgessgroup.com OFFICIAL SUZUKI PARTNER 0116 ANAN OFFICIAL SUZUKI PARTNER Official Fuel Consumption Figures for the Suzuki SX4 S-Cross range mpg (litres/100km) and CO 2 emissions (g/km): Urban 39.7-55.3 (7.1-5.1), Extra Urban 55.3-76.3 (5.1-3.7), Combined Official Fuel Consumption Figures for the Suzuki SX4 S-Cross range mpg (litres/100km) and CO 2 emissions (g/km): Urban 39.7-55.3 (7.1-5.1), Extra Urban 55.3-76.3 (5.1-3.7), Combined 47.8-67.2 (5.9-4.2), CO 2 emissions 135-110 g/km. The above fuel consumption figures are based on an EU test for comparative purposes only and may not reflect real driving results. *Model 47.8-67.2 (5.9-4.2), CO 2 emissions 135-110 g/km. The above fuel consumption figures are based on an EU test for comparative purposes only and may not reflect real driving results. *Model shown: SX4 S-Cross 1.6 SZ5 available from £19,749. SX4 S-Cross range: SX4 S-Cross 1.6 SZ3 Manual available at £14,999 to SX4 S-Cross 1.6 DDiS SZ5 ALLGRIP Manual available at £23,549. shown: S-Crossreferred 1.6 SZ5to available £19,749. SX4 range: SX4 S-Cross 1.6 SZ3 Manual available at £14,999 to SX4 S-Cross 1.6 DDiS SZ5 ALLGRIP Manual at £23,549.

TheSX4 features in this from advertisement andS-Cross all specifications and equipment may vary depending on engine, transmission and model grade. †ALLavailable GRIP 4-wheel Drive The only features referred to in this SZ5 advertisement and&allSZ5 specifications and equipment may varycorrect depending on of engine, androad model grade.

4-wheel Drive available on 1.6 petrol and DDiS SZ-T models. All prices and specifications at time going transmission to print. On the price valid †ALL from GRIP 1st September 2013 onlyto available on 1.6 petrol andshown: DDiS SZ-T SZ5 models. prices(metallic and specifications correct at time of going to print. On the road price valid from 1st September 2013 31st December 2013.SZ5 Model SX4 & S-Cross 1.6 SZ5AllManual paint £450). to 31st December 2013. Model shown: SX4 S-Cross 1.6 SZ5 Manual (metallic paint £450).

PEOPLE & PLACES

Diabetes is no

masquerade O

n Saturday 9th November, Barkby Village Hall was host to a masquerade ball in support of De Montfort University’s research into the creation of an artificial pancreas to benefit those with type 1 diabetes.

The fundraiser was organised by nurse and mother of three Aly Dilks for whom this disease hits very close to home, “Having two sons with type 1 diabetes controlled with insulin pumps is very stressful and life changing. It’s a constant worry when they’re away on school trips, at parties or sleepovers. If the artificial pancreas became available it would alleviate so much anxiety for mums like me.”

The decision to start fundraising came from Aly’s daughter Laura, who wanted to raise money to help her brothers. Following the success of their garden party this summer which raised £1190, they decided to hold a masquerade ball.

Over 100 guests were treated to a glass of fizz and delicious canapés created by Claire Van Dijk and served by Aly’s children George (16), Laura (14) and Joe (12) and their friends.

Entertainment was provided by Jazz singer Stuart Bryan who offered his services free of charge and George Dilks who was DJ for the night.

The event was also attended by Joan Taylor, Professor of Pharmaceutics at De Montfort University, who is heading the research into the artificial pancreas, an insulin dispensing device that responds to the body to deliver variable doses as an intelligent response to the blood glucose.

“The evening was such a surprise. I’d been invited to say a few words but had no idea about dress code and arrived just a bit underdressed, thinking this was a little talk about diabetes! An automated system would be so useful. Not only could the anxiety of getting the dose and diet balance just right be minimised, but the outcomes would also be better. The NHS currently spends a million pounds per hour trying to treat the consequences of getting this wrong.”

The auction which included restaurant vouchers, beauty treatments, sporting tickets and photography shoots was a roaring success, with the event raising £3,773 overall.

Speaking after the event Aly said, “I thought the evening went really well and I am overwhelmed by everyone’s generosity and the amount raised. I was also delighted that Professor Taylor was able to attend, even though she had literally just returned from the USA. I’ve had so much fun, I want to do it all over again” If you are interested in finding out more about the research into the artificial pancreas visit www.dmu.ac.uk A special thank you to those businesses that contributed to the raffle and auction prizes.

Your generosity was most appreciated: Boboli Restaurant, Claire Van Dijk, Clinque de Beaute, Coles Nursery, Conkers, Curve, Encore Hotel, Joanne Withers Photography, Knighton Flowers, Leicester Tigers, The Lighthouse Restaurant, Lucy Cufflin, Nutrafit, Ragdale Hall, Snow Dome, The Belmont Hotel, The Good Earth, The Retreat and Twycross Zoo. URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 61

EXPERIENCE A MAGICAL JOURNEY from £235 per person

A journey on the British Pullman & Northern Belle is more than just a day trip.

It provides you with a unique experience amongst opulently furnished surrounds where every exquisite detail sets the scene for the romance of travel.

Reserve your seat now to experience the style of England’s 1920’s & 1930’s trains. Sit back whilst served fine wines and sumptuous cuisine, with the beautiful British countryside passing you by.

BOOK TODAY AND RECEIVE £100 OFF PER COUPLE ON SELECTED DATES.

TO BOOK CALL: 0845 077 2222 or VISIT: orient-express.com/uktrains quoting code UF10 to claim this special offer.

This offer, subject to availability, is valid for new bookings only and cannot be combined with any other offers or promotions. This offer is valid on journeys aboard the British Pullman and Northern Belle throughout January, February and March 2014. The lead price of £235 per person is based on a Spirit of Travel Lunch onboard the Northern Belle in 2014.

PEOPLE & PLACES LOWER SLAUGHTER MANOR, LOWER SLAUGHTER, COTSWOLDS Best for country refinement

Winter

HIDEAWAYS THE SCARLETT, MAWGAN PORTH, CORNWALL

Best for beach retreats

If you’re looking for a late Christmas getaway or New Year treat, these are some of our favourite UK bolt-holes

BRAYE BEACH HOTEL, ALDERNEY, CHANNEL ISLANDS

Best for island hoppers

acebook Order now on

®

Let us know where you plan to escape to this winter at

www.facebook.com/ theurbanfoxmediagroup

CHEWTON GLEN, NEW MILTON, HAMPSHIRE Best for forest lovers

BRIMSTONE HOTEL, THE , CUMBRIA LANGDALE ESTATE Best for exploring URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 63

Dare

2B SEEN

Set the slopes ablaze with one of these attention grabbing ski jackets

Looking for a great ski holiday?

Foresight 3L Jacket £300, Salomon

Alpine Action™ Jacket £160, Columbia

Find it at Snowfinders.

Worldwide tailor-made and package ski holidays.

Chalets, hotels and apartments.

Call us on: 01858 466888.

Visit us at www.snowfinders.co.uk or Aspen House, Kings Head Place, Market Harborough LE16 7JT.

Women’s Baker Jacket £250, The North Face

Stella Jacket, £300, Helly Hansen ABTA J5552 ATOL 9279

s Saas-Fee/Saastal Tourismu

PEOPLE & PLACES

ski feature

Piste de résistance Looking to hit the slopes this New Year but undecided on where to go?

We asked Nick Edwards of Snow Finders in Market Harborough to share with us some of his favourite European resorts

Saas Fee, Switzerland

From the moment you enter Saas Fee you are struck by its beauty. Truly one of the world's most picturesque ski resorts, it is a delightful Swiss ‘chocolate box’ village. The resort is perched up at 1800m and has one of the longest seasons in the Alps. Whilst the ski resort is open virtually all year round the main ski area operates from late November until early May. This traffic free resort is perfect for non-skiers too with its diverse off slope attractions.

Meribel, France

Meribel sits perfectly placed in the central valley of the world's largest interconnected ski area covering over 600kms of piste.

Snow coverage is good with the ski season starting in early December and finishing at the end of April. The lift system is one of the best and most efficient in the Alps and even at the height of the season queues are dispersed quickly. What’s more Ibiza Rocks comes to Meribel this season. Après all night to world class DJ’s and catch Ibiza's top clubbing brands, street, pool parties, ice parties and more.

Livigno, Italy

Great value for money resort offering high altitude skiing near to the Swiss border.

Extensive skiing split on both sides of the valley, with a good variety of slopes to suit all but the very best skiers. Another

attraction of Livigno is its duty free status that makes for good value for money shopping and partying. Non skiers are catered for with tobogganing, a thermal spa, trips to Bormio and St Moritz.

St. Anton, Austria

St Anton is a superb resort both on and off the slopes. It is ideally suited for the adventurous and competent skier who likes to party hard! An elongated resort at the base of the valley, it has managed to keep much of its original character. It is partly traffic free and has a lively atmosphere throughout the day and well into the night.

The Arlberg area is renowned for the heavy snow falls and so snow conditions are often very good and can last with the help of good snow-making well into April.

Åre, Sweden

The resort stretches for 10km along a frozen lake in a beautiful setting amongst the mountains and snow-covered forests.

The skiing is suited to beginners and intermediates with a good-sized ski area.

The other attraction of Åre is the amazing 185miles of cross-country trails, some of which are floodlit. Boarders are well catered for with good varied terrain plus three snow parks. There’s also plenty to do off piste with sleigh rides, tobogganing, ice-fishing and snowmobiling. The après ski is lively with many bars, restaurants and live music venues.

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PEOPLE & PLACES

My Way...

Libby Nockles

The founder of Bikram Yoga Leicester, talks to us about her love of flying, educating children in India and turning her dining room into a sauna Growing up in Leicester I had no idea what I wanted to do. I liked cooking so I decided to go to Southfields College to do Hotel Management. I later joined the De Vere Trainee Management Scheme and took my first post in a hotel in Manchester.

It was in Manchester that I worked with a girl who’d previously worked for Gulf Air. It seemed an interesting job and the service skills that I learnt were ideal, so I applied and got my first break with Dan Air. I later moved to work with United Airlines.

Best Christmas gift: Flights to Australia to get married

Favorite clothes brand: Mint Velvet

I loved working with United. Having the sun on my back in the middle of winter and eating Japanese food. It was a weekly escape. But I did hate having to get up at “stupid o’clock” to go to work!

After two of United’s planes were brought down in the Sept 11th attack, I realized that my “easy life job” would not stay the same. I decided to retrain to do something that was becoming more prominent in my life.

I first discovered Bikram Yoga in San Francisco. An American girl I worked with introduced me to it. Bikram or ‘hot yoga’ is a series of 26 postures and 2 breathing exercises practiced in a room heated to 105 degrees. The workout aims to relieve you of stress and make you healthier and stronger in a relaxing environment. It made me feel so good, that I use to heat up my dining room and practice at home, as there were no classes any closer than London. When I left United Airlines teaching Bikram seemed the natural thing to do.

I left Leicester when I was 19 and never thought I’d return but my boyfriend who I’d dated since school brought me back and I set up the business here.

For the first two years I taught all 14 classes, did reception, the laundry, the accounts and cleaned. Now I have a fantastic team who all enhance the passion, atmosphere and success of the business.

I have also had an opportunity to be involved with the ‘Help for Chandra’ charity. For the last 3 years Bikram Yoga students have supported 2 children Chandra and Manasa to go to a private English speaking school in Hampi, India. We have also committed to provide the same education for their siblings, Shalani and Shreeya. If your readers are interested in getting involved, more details are available at bikramyogaleicester.co.uk/pages/charity

Most inspirational woman: Malala Yousafzai

Last book you read: The Rice Paper Diaries

A beautiful piece of jewellery behind every door, it must be Cathy Stephens Jewellery

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This year Cathy has designed and hand-made her most extensive range of unique jewellery to date.

Featuring a collection of 18ct Gold, Platinum and Palladium jewellery, set with Diamonds, Tanzanite and pink Tourmaline.

We also have new ranges including Danish Design watches and a large selection of Silver jewellery set with Amber, as well as many new designs added to our already comprehensive collections.

Please join us for a glass of mulled wine - we look forward to seeing you!

Open 7 days a week | Free parking | Free gift-wrapping

Cathy Stephens Jewellery Ltd 19 Ratby Road, Groby, Leicester Tel 0116 287 0041 | www.cathystephens.co.uk Open: Mon - Sat 10am - 5pm | Sundays 10am-4pm

URBAN FOX DECEMBER 2013 67

If you’re buying or selling this winter,