Urban Fox - July 2014 issue

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July 2014

DRESS for LESS Fab frocks for under £50

WIN Á La Carte

meal for two

SCILLY season

Look good NAKED Be your bare Free your mind Declutter

The British Caribbean

Travelling

LIGHT

Create a capsule wardrobe

faced self

and unwind WITH

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Hello Hello

newtoseason looks up hit the high street, local It’s allAs toothe easy get caught in the humdrum boutiques and online stores; there’s no and lose sight of what’s important to us; sobetter this timetake to celebrate and style summer, the timealltothings simplyfashion sit back and enjoy than in our Retail Therapy edition. life with our Less is More edition.

Weoff bring the must-have items from the Jetting for ayou short-break?

We’ve created 3 newcapsule season collections, on7key trends stunning wardrobesupdates with only items or in COVER SHOT: Join the Dots and Pleats Please; plus spring’s 10 less; giving you all the style, without the luggage.

LONG TALL SALLY best clutch bags in Clutch Control. I also share BODENKnitted Pocket Tunic, £48 & Lola And if you love a bargain but hate the sales, don’t my favourite tries and buys for SS14 in Cashmere colourblock jumper, £89 £83.30 Rosa Elena Necklace, worry we’ve taken out all the hard work. Check out Pretty Pendant, £20.30 Wish List (p15). page 11 for this season’s best day dresses for under £50! Hurry, they won’t stay Asforever! consumers we waste hundreds of pounds over our lifetime buying the wrong around products for our hair, so Jon Levy, Artistic Director at Toni & Guy comes to our rescue If you’re fed up with the time it takes to get ready in the morning, follow in the footsteps with 4 Steps to Perfect Hair. We also check out this season’s catwalk makeup trends, to of thehelp fabulous and famous – Natalie Portman, Carey Mulligan, Anne Hathaway – and get Download the free layar you transform your new season look. appthe to buy Download freefeatured layar products, a sassy summer crop. Plus you too can achieve a brighter, younger version of your barewatch videos and more If fashion is your passion, don’t misson out on our app to buy featured products, face self, with our simple beauty tricks page 17. interview with revolutionary designer throughand your smartphone watch videos more Zandra Rhodes who talks to us about breaking down design barriers and why the On the home front, we show how to design a minimalist inviting interior, get tablet! throughoryour smartphone government should showyou more support to the UK fashion yet industry.

And ever wondered the garden want with less effort and createTina simple delicious meals with only 4 or tablet! what ityou takes to become a personal stylist?

Lockbut reveals all in this month’s My Way. theurbanfoxmediagroup ingredients! If you’re looking for a summer challenge, then eat below the line (page 29), Finally one of exclusive reader diet offers courtesy of Lands’ End,your cash Like usnow foronregular features, Order with just £1 abag day,yourself for 5 days; orour follow our financial and learn how to make theurbanfoxmediagroup and more great T.M.further.

Lewin, Clarins and more. There’s never been a better excuse to shop, shop, shop!

Like us competitions for regular features, go even ® stuff about Leicestershire competitions and more great Until next time, our own advice and having a well-earned break. We’re back in Finally we’re taking stuff about Leicestershire urbanfoxmag September but in the meantime you can stay in touch with all things Fox via Facebook, Follow our boards for what’s Twitter and Pinterest. urbanfoxmag influencing the creation of our Follow our boardseach for what’s magazine month Happy holidays! influencing the creation of our magazine each month @TheUrban_Fox

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MARTINA LENAGHAN Editor editor@theurban-fox.co.uk MARTINA LENAGHAN Editor STEVE LENAGHAN editor@theurban-fox.co.uk Head of Sales & Marketing 07738 614245 STEVE LENAGHAN steve@theurban-fox.co.uk Head of Sales & Marketing LISA ROTH 07738 614245 Head of New Business steve@theurban-fox.co.uk Development LISA ROTH 07843 851132 Head oflisa@theurban-fox.co.uk New Business Development PAUL 07843 851132BANKS Designer lisa@theurban-fox.co.uk paul@theurban-fox.co.uk PAUL BANKS Designer Disclaimer: Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of material in this publication, paul@theurban-fox.co.uk the editor can accept no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributors in either Disclaimer: Although every effort is made to editorial or advertising content. ensure theCopyright: accuracy All of material in this text, images andpublication, design in this the editorpublication can acceptare nosubject responsibility for theAny to copyright. veracity ofunauthorised claims madeduplication by contributors in either is strictly prohibited. editorial or content. on the strict condition Alladvertising artwork is accepted that permission has been given to use Copyright: All text, images and design in this it in this publication. 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.

36

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

16

Revolution DESIGN

approach to Famed for her wonderfully colourful Rhodes design, English queen of textiles Zandra discusses her involvement in the industry

House

to From the Victorian era 20th century iconic designers

“I think women have a harder road all round, in whatever field they go into.”

Town’ and ‘Journeys’ festivals, 4th annual community her garments procured by buyers Henri hen asked to picture a plus new activities including production, the Tony AwardBendel, Neiman Marcus and Saks, Zandra figurehead of the British the ‘Night of Festivals’, winning musical Annie. has since become the enigmatic textile fashion design world, the celebrating freedom and Directed by Paul Kerryson designer of her age. independence through vivacious fuchsia-haired Zandra Rhodes and set against the backdrop innovative art and artistic promptly comes to mind. So it’s a easy of the American Great That isn’t to say that fashion was an inspiration and ‘Safe House’, privilege to meet the ‘Princess of Punk’ Depression, this uplifting industry to crack. Did being a woman a spectacular large-scale well-known in her bright, quirky and altogether the features tale it? with do have anything to outdoor performance that fabulous London penthouse. Awarded classics ‘Tomorrow’, ‘Little explores the significance of Street’.

‘Easy a Commander of the British Empire and Girls’ harder a “Oh yes. I think women have home and the importance of for her efforts in the fashion industry, Join Annie and her faithful go road all round, in whatever field they being part of a community.

Sandy, dog the designer has permanently printed companion, Deluxe notCinema say isJuly, I would Rieu, 19-20 André into. The only thing With an array of free activities on the international world of on their heart-warming her mark T 2014 JULY/AUGUS for all ages, including sports, to make it any harder for yourself by family the find to adventure textiles. culture, music, art, heritage pointing it out.”

Leicester’s most loved music they are longing for. romantic open-air concert, Skylight, and more, the City Festival lily brooch of David Hare’shas venues, The Donkey, Firebug to one his been and never Pacific André 18 carat gold and enamel South featuring At 73, Rhodes of the festival 17 July world provides a great reason to Musician, broadcast live (Thu and The Introduced to the colourful Sold for £8,400 from bold prints and iconic Tue 1 Jul - Sun 13 Jul famous 60 piece Johann attributed to tiffany. shy away at talent studied of local stay local this August. mother,is Zandra her celebration by only) from the West End a textiles with the to along Theatre, century House a Caribbean Kilworth Rewind half Strauss Orchestra, patterns. in Kent, more nationallysome before

by National Theatre Live. Zandra’s vibrant Medway College of Art with Carnival North Kilworth many famous guest artists, and a youthful 1960s late Royal including Thenames London’s a bitterly cold London at On recognised place a securing and Aug £25 2 shows left-field.

Sat Tickets from considered a little soloists, light designs schoolteacher The Comedy of evening,were The South, complementing Art. of Spoken fireworks.

Victoria Park, Leicester kilworthhousetheatre.co.uk spectacular College the designer made dresses Unperturbed, Errors line-up. Simon Says is Kyra Hollis (Mulligan) the Dutch and Event Free printed in English fabrics, embedding parts her own from centre festival citythe an unexpected Sat 30 Aug perfect at receives in London that being the subtitles “I do think leicestercarnival.com This epic award winning with some English craft. lover, within former textiles her her Jewry Wall Museum, Leicester was a rural feel. visit from witheveryone Jewellery musical follows a group of supplied. time that I started, when our resident has made.” apply) £12 (conc.by Tickets But Tom Sergeant (Nighy), a Rhodes in 2003 the museum museum Founded The 29th annual looking toward the UK, was helpful.

American sailors and Navy has alsoCaribbean eums struggles was the fact is now accepting firstcharismatic of of my and leicester.gov.uk/mus California and London, Rhodespromises “One successful specialist to turn is dedicated to showcasing the work Carnival I don’t think that there’s such an equal nurses stationed in the South into designing expanded she explains materials further colour wife designer,” Having also r whose I was a textile that restaurateur septembe Annie that spent time researchingthe our textile designers from the a riot of For fashion and city into Says piecessets Pacific during World War opportunity at present. I don’t think Simon if as a large the say that comes to and costumes for the San Diego died. As would Sun 10 Aug afield. The designer cites travel year’s Shakespeare laugh. “People 26 Jul –enough hasarecently with Satspends Does she believe her theme being Jul 27 current 1950s onwards. with this government II and the two parallel love sale Sat 26 – Sunour arthas staked its claim on two you can’t superb thethen FineAmerica Leicester creative inspiration.

Opera, designer progresses, Leicester for a has a textile evening you’re made ripples in the fashion compared Leicester fashionCurve whenTheatre, Hall, ‘A Celebration of Nelson museum stories that are threatened not only De aMontforton promoting She boasts their once designer. that was production in the English £8.50 to rekindle include: the outdoor So I suppose from attempt interest dresses.

Tickets of make items and opening and war The apply) example. of (conc.

Mandela’. one designers industry? by the dangers Tickets from £15 French government, for and her to the museum things, atmospheric surroundings deeds to her flagship passionate relationship only curveonline.co.uk ･ castellani “When travelling you see Victoria ceremony is atjust ･ Kutchinsky ･ Fabergé prejudice. The songs from this revolution.” demontforthall.co.uk So therefore, unfortunately, you don’t it, but also the cartier ･ tiffany and it’s by a vibrant of the Jewry Wall Roman Fashion and thingfollowed penthouse home above to find themselves locked in a Textile thing leads to another Park, ･ micro mosaic wonderful show have become definitely think the chanel ･ elsa schiaparelli of Miami, necessarily reap the benefits.” of opposing to the ･cities ruins.“I The Comedy of Errors together an grima dangerous battle transatlantic keysJewels Curve’s professional in bringing andrew to fabulous.” an impact in regards street carnival through the had hastwo some of the most memorable This revolution, After the success of last year’s Museum sets insect brooches ･ sufragette desires. story of mutual will again Orleans. the and New team tells bvlgari and ･ Hills production, ideologies and production tarrat Beverly dance ivan design Ha’i’, ･ both ‘Bali Says visible,” featuring for eye Simon industry more city centre, slowing down. standards including: the textiles sell-out festival, david thomas ･ John donald makingtwins no signs of that were Rhodes shows with a of identical has be joining forces ･ lapponia That isn’t to say that Zandra secured Rhodes’ assimilation into the Montfort Hall passed troupes, creative colourful ‘I’m Gonna Wash That Man returns to De up her seat at this at museum curator Sirgeorg Jensen ･ chopard she deliberates. separated“The The fashionista won’t accidentally group of hugely talented hans hansen this veteran･ designer But anderson and magnificent Presented in forgone her design industry fashion world. In 1967 she opened The floats efforts Right Outa My Hair’, ‘Some recently and Gardens. in favour of all opened one of david Serota Week brothers When the year’s London Fashionlocal birth.Nicholas easily. With performers for their usrdsoSeptember André Rieu Shop, in London.

Fashion be claimed from23 costumes. closer to home. The London Enchanted Evening’, ‘There is Fulham Road Clothes partnership with three ofa women’s health awareness anda he’s been amazingly Tuesday ourinexhibitions, the same city, Jul Sale date: UK end up Sat 19 & Sun 20 nd half a century of service to the on she’d taken her designs advocating and Textile Museum holds testament Nothing Like a Dame’, ‘Happy Just two years ensue,the difference the Known for catalogue 22 august complimentary San Diego. of wild mishapsabout in Montfort series campaignDe Cinema De Lux, Leicester Hall closing date for entries into to her commitment to British fashion.

Talk’ and ‘Younger Than to New York where Diana VreelandSimon Says, 26-27 July,her to wrongful beatings, time between bases in leading dividing Tickets £12.50 in American Vogue. With enquiries: City Festival Springtime’. featured them a near-seduction, arrest, cinemadelux.co.uk Sat 16 – Mon 25 Aug sales@gildings.co.uk false accusations of infidelity, City Centre, Leicester 01858 410414 theft, madness, and demonic Help celebrate the 10th Free Event Skylight possession! The grounds Anniversary of André Rieu’s visitleicester.info/cityfestival Thu 17 & Thu 31 Jul open for picnics at 6.30pm. traditional summer evening gH SalerooM Phoenix Cinema, Leicester Market Harborou Advance tickets are available concerts, staged on the most road le16 7de The City Festival is back for Tickets £15 (conc. apply) tHe Mill great bowden from The Guildhall on 0116 romantic city square in The auctioneers a second year, incorporating phoenix.org.uk 2569.

253 Netherlands: the Vrijthof in as previous events such Maastricht! The dramatic ‘SportsFest’ and the ‘Old Bill Nighy and Carey and alluring medieval square Mulligan feature in the highly will be transformed into a anticipated production

W

WHAT’S ON

11

South Pacific, 1-13 July, Kilworth

8

Fine Jewellery

8

Image: Gene Nocon

fashion industry, her advice to up and coming British designers merges the entrepreneurial with the sage.

“Work as hard as you can. Because no hard work gets wasted. And unfortunately you have to work harder and harder to get there right at the beginning.”

8

us Debuting years before the majority of were old enough to pronounce ‘haute couture’, it’s safe to say she’s arrived.

URBAN FOX APRIL 2014 17

gildings

41

13

15

CONTRIBUTORS: Jeremy Julie 40 Cahill, John Cawrey, Mark Goddard, Jake Harvey,13 Howard, Ali Jahan, Allison Jones, James Lonergan, Lino Poli, Phillip Sharpe

Sheelagh Powell Jon Levy Julie Langton CONTRIBUTORS: Jake Harvey, Lino Poli, James Lonergan, Cristina Romao, Guiding you on Bringing you helping you

Phillip Sharpe, Lucy Turner, Rebecca Watts, Helen Wells cosmetic looks, the latest in hair trends and

Jon Levy application

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

style, colour and

Zoe Hubbard product trends Interior designer helping to transform your home

make the most out of your

Markmoney Sandall

Estate agent steering you URBAN FOX APRIL 2014 5 through the property market

URBAN FOX JULY 2014 5

July WINING & DINING 25 Fuss free cooking

Our 4-ingredient recipes 29 Eat below the line

Could you survive on £1 a day?

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

19

32 West end girl

Linzi Hateley interview

FASHION & BEAUTY

34 Reviews

July’s recommendations

8 Travelling light Creating a capsule wardrobe

36 What’s on

Activities for the whole family

11 Dress for less

Fab frocks for under £50

HOMES & GARDENS 37 Tips from the potting shed

A little gardening know how

13 Dare to bare

Embrace the playsuit

40 An english affair

All the fun of the fair

15 Top of the crops

Go short for summer 17 Look good naked

Be your bare faced self

19 Free your mind

Declutter and unwind

51 Modern minimalism

Creating the ‘less is more’ interior

LIFE & WORK 55 The financial diet

Make your cash go further

61 Scilly season

The british caribbean

23 What your smile reveals The shocking truth of gum disease

from Long Tall Sally

47 Shades of grey

The go-to colour of the season

PEOPLE & PLACES

21 Less is more

Get the most from exercise

VOUCHER

43 Garden appeal

Sweet smell of success

57 We love play

Fun ways for kids to learn new skills

59 The big ‘o’

Killing your pet with kindness

HEALTH & WELLBEING

WIN A £100

11

61

62 My way Local spotlight on Aly Dilks

12 WIN 16 WIN 28 WIN A FACIAL & AN 8 COURSE ROMANTIC PEDICURE with Clarins

MEAL

at The White Peacock

NOVELS

by Adrienne Vaughan

34

New Collection Available Now

www.nichebags.com

URBAN FOX JULY 2014 7

FASHION & BEAUTY

Travelling

LIGHT Away for a few days and restricted to hand-luggage? We show you how to get more style with less clothes!

Kelsey Shirt, £35 Masie Shorts, £50

SAILING IN SARDINIA Crew Clothing Applegrove Bikini, £40 Ballater Crop Jeans, £55 Leather Wrap Sandals, £35 Christina Dress, £48

Georgette Mix Bomber Jacket, £69 Dark Rose Gold Metallic Vest, £29 Liza Print Shorts, £35

DESERT SAFARI IN DUBAI Mint Velvet Satin Biker Dress, £49 Cara Print Jumpsuit, £45 Black Asymmetric Skirt, £69 Ali Sandal, £79

SIGHTSEEING IN SEVILLE Phase Eight Justine Crochet Lace Cotton Blouse, £32 Jasmine Dress, £69 Dakota Chevron Stripe Maxi Skirt, £49 Jewel Sandals, £49

Debbie Side Tie Top, £35 Jada Jacquard Jeans, £69

FASHION & BEAUTY

Dress for less We’ve scoured the sales for this summer’s best day dresses for under £50.

Snooze you’ll lose!

Laid Back Linen Dress £41.30, Boden

Lola Cowl Crepe Shift Dress £40, Oasis stockists

Trailing Floral Dress £39, minuet-petite.co.uk

Evette Dress £45.50, peopletree.co.uk

Zig Zag Dress, £26 sugarhillboutique.com

Untold Print Dress £25.50, houseoffraser.co.uk

Pasha Poppy Midi Dress £45, topshop.com

URBAN FOX JULY 2014 11

WIN

A £100 VOUCHER FOR LONG TALL SALLY Courtesy of fashion brand Long Tall Sally, Urban Fox is offering one reader the chance to win a voucher worth £100.

TO ENTER Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to editor@theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘Long Tall Sally’ in the subject bar. Closing date for entries is Friday 29 August 2014.

Terms & Conditions The winner will be notified on or after the closing date. The Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

The prize is non-transferrable and no cash alternative is available. The voucher can be used online at www.longtallsally.com or in store www.longtallsally.com/stores and must be used within 1 year of the competition closing date. The voucher can be used to purchase sale items but not in conjunction with any other offer.

Long Tall Sally is the first choice in fashionable, flattering clothing for women 5’8” and above. With over 30 years’ experience LTS has all your tall needs covered with a versatile range available in store and online, that will make you look and feel gorgeous. Shopping for tall has never been so stylish!

To receive regular emails featuring new collection launches, special offers and more, sign up at www.longtallsally.com/mailinglist

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BARE

If you’ve got great legs, embrace the playsuit! Perfect for taking you from day to night

left to right: Mixed Print Playsuit £25, Warehouse Wispy Meadow Print Playsuit £149, Ted Baker Lana Crepe Playsuit £48, Oasis Ava Playsuit by Motel £40, Topshop Dee Sleeveless Playsuit £149, Reiss

Go HeelLESS

The humble flat has made a comeback for SS14, so ditch the heels and opt for this season’s most comfortable trend

Chill Out Metallic Sandal £163, net-a-porter.com

Carvela Karma Sandal £55, kurtgeiger.com

Tabitha Sandal £270, jimmychoo.com

Steve Madden Serenite Sandal, £44, dunelondon.com

50 1963/2013 1963/2013

5500 1963/2013

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Crops Top of the

Thinking of going for the chop this summer? Toni & Guy’s Artistic Director, Jon Levy, gives us the lowdown on how to achieve the perfect crop

Do think carefully before going for the chop as in the words of Coco Chanel “a woman who cuts her hair is about to change her life”

Do cut out images of styles you like and dislike to take along to the salon. Stylists work very visually and pictures are the best tool to help us to create your new style

50

Do be open with your stylist. They’ll

want to know your reason for going short, preferred looks, time you allocate to styling, how regularly you want to visit the salon to maintain the style etc.

Do keep it timeless. Mia Farrow and

Do consider the cost. Short hair typically requires more frequent cutting in order to maintain the style. Is this sustainable both in terms of cost and the time for those extra salon visits?

Don’t overload your new short cut

Do ask for a different stylist if during

colour on your newly cropped hair. You can keep your short style on trend for seasons to come, with the help of a skilled colourist

the consultation stage you’re not 100% happy with their advice. This is a big step for any woman and you need to feel confident and relaxed

Don’t be frightened to go for the crop,

as there is a short style to suit all women.

Think carefully about your face shape and hair texture. Ask your stylist if you’re unsure what will be best for you

with product. Your hair should be touchable and look natural. When it comes to product less is usually more

Don’t be afraid to experiment with

Don’t avoid ‘on trend’ styles for fear

of it dating quickly. Simply choose a look which can be updated and modified, such as Frankie Sandford from ‘The Saturdays’ feminine side-swept crop

Judy Dench both have looks which will never date and are copied by younger celebrities including Ginnifer Goodwin, Natalie Portman and Carey Mulligan

Do consider going shorter in stages. This can be done over a few appointments or even in one appointment. The key is to reach the short look you will love

Cropstars: Ginnifer Goodwin, Carey Mulligan and Frankie Sandford

URBAN FOX JULY 2014 15

WIN

A CLARINS FACIAL & PEDICURE Clarins at John Lewis, Leicester is offering one reader the chance to win a personalised TriActive facial, plus luxury Shellac pedicure worth over £100!

Radiance Reviver, Moisture Replenisher, Skin Healer and Detox & Shine Stopper.

This is a truly personalised treatment, which when combined with a luxurious Shellac pedicure will leave you feeling fabulous from top to toe.

The TriActive facial is a blend of specialised massage movements, powered by CLARINSPRO formulas which contain an impressive 100% plant extracts, to leave your complexion feeling fresh, lifted and radiant. There are 6 x A fusion of science, touch and nature 85 minute treatments to choose from Clarins Skin Spa, Highcross Lane, City retreat decleor 1 16/06/2014 23:46 including Youth Activator, Linead-150x109-06.14.pdf Smoother, Centre, Leicester, LE1 4SD, 0116 251 6462

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Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to editor@ theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘Clarins’ in the subject bar. Closing date for entries is Friday 29 August 2014.

Terms & Conditions The winner will be notified on or after the closing date.

The Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. The prize is non-transferrable and no cash alternative is available. Appointments are strictly Monday to Friday at the Clarins Skin Spa, John Lewis, Leicester and are subject to availability. The prize must be claimed no later than 31 October 2014.

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FASHION & BEAUTY

Look Good

Naked

A natural radiant glow is the most soughtafter look of the summer. Helen Wells, Clarins manager at John Lewis, reveals how you too can achieve a brighter, younger version of your bare-face self, with some simple beauty tricks

1

Cleanse morning and evening to smooth away embedded make-up, pollutants and cellular debris.

Cleansers with softening plant extracts, create radiance and are kind to your skin.

Always follow with an alcohol free toner containing camomile or sage to help balance and hydrate.

4

Choose the perfect day and night moisturising duo. This can be a big investment so you need to get it right. A good beauty specialist will ask you lots of questions before recommending suitable products; a great one will offer you a mini complimentary facial too, so you can try before you buy.

2

7

Once or twice a week, brighten a dull complexion by exfoliating.

This is a gentle but vital process and everyone should do it. If you’re going to splash the cash on a new product, an exfoliator will make sure all your other products work effectively, offering value for money too.

3

Serums have long been the biggest buzz word in the beauty industry! When you need a super charged pick-me-up, used daily these super boosters can help to hydrate, firm, brighten or protect your skin. Choose an intensive serum that combines all benefits and you can turn back the clock!

6

Next use a cream blush, on the apples of the cheeks. Apply with your fingers; this gives warmth to the product and makes it melt onto the BB cream without rubbing it away. You can also use a little on your lips to create a lip stain and top with a clear gloss for the perfect natural pout.

5

Natural make-up leaves the impression of freshness and radiance. BB creams are great for all skin types and have a 3-in-1 approach - balancing skin tone, revitalising and protecting against the damaging effects of UVA/UVB. It’s quick, easy to apply and creates enviable luminosity.

Go nude on the eyes. Using a natural palette, apply the base on the lids and a slightly darker tone in the socket. Instead of eyeliner use the deepest shade, wet a thin brush and sweep along the upper lash line.

The outer edge should flick out slightly to create a natural extension of the lower lash line.

8

Finish with mascara. Wiggle the brush from side to side and coat every lash from root to tip twice.

Use the best mascara you can afford and choose one that contains proteins to help condition, strengthen and even lengthen your lashes.

URBAN FOX JULY 2014 17

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

Free your

Mind

Is your head often whirring with so much information that you find it difficult to relax? Try these 12 tips to de-clutter your brain and help you unwind

1 Go Green

Go for a walk on your own to a local park or in the countryside. It’s thought that our minds feel most at peace in a natural setting.

2 Take a Break

Excessive stress leads to high levels of cortisol, which can leave you being unable to see the wood for the trees.

If possible take regular mini-breaks rather than a block of 2 weeks or more annual leave.

5 Brain Dump

Sitting quietly with a pad and pen, write down as quickly as you can, everything that comes into your head.

Your stream of consciousness may just give you the answer you’ve been looking for.

6 Time Out

If something is troubling you, set aside 15 minutes (no more) to focus on it. Theoretically your subconscious will continue to analyse what’s worrying you but without it becoming all consuming.

10 Technology Detox

The modern world makes it difficult to “turn off” with technology being a constant distraction. So have set times to switch off your mobile phone and iPad and tune into something or someone else.

7 Change Perspective

Studies have shown that we are twice as likely to solve problems when they are not directly related to us. So try viewing issues from a different perspective i.e. what would my boss do?

3 Slow Down

Stop asking yourself the same questions; instead relax and allow your unconscious mind to take over. The best solutions usually come when you’re not thinking about them.

4 Speed Up

Brain activity is fuelled by oxygen and studies have shown that boosting your energy through aerobic exercise, leads to enhanced levels of thinking and reasoning.

8 Problem Sharing

Talking to others about the things that are cluttering your mind is beneficial.

Just having someone listen and understand, can help relieve some of the urgency and intensity of the thoughts.

9 What Matters

Often we spend too much time thinking about things that do not matter to us. Remind yourself of what you love – even the smallest things - and create opportunities to include them in your life.

11 New Experiences

Trying a new sport or activity has an invigorating effect. It opens the mind, helping your brain to think along new lines instead of running on autopilot.

12 Self-Belief

If you have a set-back, simply shake yourself off and start again. Trust that all will be well and enjoy the sense of peace that comes with clarity of mind!

URBAN FOX JULY 2014 19

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

Less is

MORE If you’ve ever thought that the more you exercised the less you’d weigh, that’s not necessarily the case says Nutrafit’s Rebecca Watts. We discover why less can sometimes be more

N

ow don’t get me wrong, anything that gets people moving and keeps them active is a good thing but if you really want to get the most out of your time exercising, think about what your fitness regime entails and why less of the right type of workout is better than more of the wrong sort of exercise.

INTENSITY

High intensity training is ultimately the best way to burn more calories, however most people burn little fat when their heart rate is functioning at this higher level during exercise. Instead the body uses mainly sugar as a fuel, which means you can feel tired more quickly,

struggle to lose weight or change your body shape. Therefore even lots of high intensity may not get you the results you want. Your best options are to walk frequently with some interval training - higher and lower intensity intervals thrown in.

For example walk for 30 seconds at a slow pace, then a 30 second fast pace walk, followed by a 30 second medium pace walk and finally a 30 second slow or fast pace jog (depending on your fitness level). This could be done outside or on a treadmill in the gym. However you do it, the aim is to get your heart rate up and down.

RESISTANCE

The type of exercise you do can have a huge impact on your results. Most women will hit the gym on a quest to lose weight and get into shape, but the biggest mistake they make is to never leave the cardiovascular – treadmills, bikes - area.

Resistance training i.e. using weight to provide resistance, is the best way to get the weight off and keep it off.

Resistance training can increase your

body’s lean muscle tissue - which at rest burns more calories than fat - can increase your metabolic rate and completely change your body shape.

Incorporating resistance training into your plan will help you achieve your results quicker than cardio alone and don’t worry about bulking out, it’s actually very difficult to do this. Squats are one of the best exercises for you to do. For great results start with 20-50 and squat every other day, increasing by 10 each time, over the next month.

CONSISTENCY

As with crash diets, there is no point throwing yourself into exercise as a quick fix to slim down for you holiday. Excessive exercise like this is unsustainable and you are likely to struggle with maintaining your energy levels, become ill and hit a plateau really quickly.

Your best approach is consistency.

Calculate how much time you can give to exercising on a regular basis, how best to use that time and stick with it.

Consistency even if it’s 20 minutes a day or a couple of hours a week is better for long term results then yo-yo exercising.

URBAN FOX JULY 2014 21

Are you

BLEEDING brushing?

If your gums bleed when you brush your teeth you may be suffering from gum disease...

7 7

Infection in your gums can travel to other parts of your body

7 7

Mobile or loose teeth are another sign of gum disease

Gum disease is linked to other serious health conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and vascular disease 70% of teeth loss is due to gum disease.

You wouldn’t ignore unexplained bleeding from anywhere else would you?

We are passionate about the treatment of gum disease and for a limited period we are offering a complimentary gum health assessment with one of our specialists.

Be smart - scan now!

To nd out more and apply visit: www.carisbrookedental.co.uk/urbanfox EXPERTISE YOU CAN TRUST

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

What your

SMILE reveals

With a new study highlighting a startling link between gum disease and other health issues, we asked periodontal specialist Cristina Romao, of Carisbrooke Dental Practice, for her opinion on the significance of this research

S

o many of us worry whether our teeth are white enough and whether our breath is fresh for those all important social events. And with more of us seeking to achieve the perfect smile, it’s all the more important to ensure that treatments including implants and restorations are being placed in healthy mouths. This not only helps to ensure predictable and positive outcomes but is also an important aim in helping you to maintain good general health and wellbeing.

health even more compelling with links to kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis and even some cancers. The study concludes that “periodontal disease should be acknowledged as a major public health issue.”

The EFP Manifesto For A Paradigm Shift: Periodontal Health For A Better Life provides detailed information about the causal links with periodontal disease and other life shortening and life threatening systemic and inflammatory diseases that could affect the health and life expectancy of millions of UK citizens.

With a third of UK adults said to be likely to develop Type 2 diabetes in the future, it seems it is in everyone’s interest not only to heed the early warning signs of poor lifestyle choices but also to ensure the signs of periodontal disease are spotted and treated early to avoid the complications that losing teeth and developing other illnesses may bring.

Very few people know about the links of gum disease to other illnesses such as Type 2 Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease and even low birth weight in new born babies. But this newly emerging evidence makes the case for looking after gum

A great deal of scientific research was carried out to prove these links and it is likely in the future that dentists will have a greater part to play in helping patients to maintain better general health and wellbeing.

A copy of the EFP Manifesto For A Paradigm Shift: Periodontal Health For A Better Life is available to view at www. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed, search for ‘EFP Manifesto’

Here’s my advice on how to prevent gum disease and what signs you should be looking out for: Attend your dentist and dental hygienist on a regular basis Spend at least two minutes brushing your teeth, twice a day Use floss or interdental brushes to clean between your teeth Bleeding when brushing is a symptom of gum inflammation Smoking and using tobacco products increases the risk of gum disease Your gums are the foundation of your teeth 70% of all teeth lost are due to gum disease and not tooth decay Don’t treat bleeding gums as normal - you wouldn’t accept unexplained bleeding from anywhere else would you?

So before you think about getting the perfect white, straight smile, take care of your gums first.

URBAN FOX JULY 2014 23

IN W AN 8 COURSE

TASTER MEAL at The White Peacock Courtesy of The White Peacock, Urban Fox is offering one reader and a guest the opportunity to win a delicious 8 course taster menu.

Sunday lunch at

The White Peacock Every Sunday from 12 noon Sundays are a special day meant for relaxation and enjoying the finer things in life.

We invite you to come and join us on Sundays from 11am for brunch, or if you prefer a Sunday lie-in we’ll welcome you for a traditional British Sunday Roast from 12 noon.

The White Peacock offers the affordable luxury of modern European and International cuisine headed up by Chef Patron Phillip Sharpe. Located in a charming Grade 2 listed building at the foot of New Walk in the heart of Leicester, they combine unique food and drink with a great location, expressive décor, local artistry and a bespoke service to compliment.

Their mouth-watering taster menu changes on a monthly basis and for an additional charge, each course can be accompanied by a delectable selection of wine. To view this month’s menu visit www.the-white-peacock.co.uk and select ‘Food & Menus’.

TO ENTER

Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to editor@theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘The White Peacock’ in the subject bar. Closing date for entries is Friday 29 August 2014.

Terms & Conditions: The prize is for an 8 course taster menu for 2 people. The prize can be taken Mon-Thurs only (except Bank Holidays) and bookings are subject to availability. Beverages are not included but can be purchased separately. The prize can be taken up to 30 November 2014. The winner will be notified on or after the closing date. The Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

The prize is non-transferrable and no cash alternative is available.

THE WHITE PEACOCK

14-16 King Street, Leicester LE1 6RJ

0116 254 7663 For information and general enquiries please email: enquiries@the-white-peacock.co.uk www.the-white-peacock.co.uk

WINING & DINING

FUSS FREE

cooking

Are you put off trying recipes because the list of ingredients are too long? Streamline your meal planning this month, with these simple yet delicious dishes, created from only 4 basic ingredients

CHICKEN BREAST WITH CHORIZO, GOATS CHEESE AND BABY SPINACH

by Phillip Sharpe, Chef Patron, The White Peacock Ingredients Serves 4

4 plump free range or organic chicken breasts 100g chorizo 150g goat’s cheese 500g baby spinach Store cupboard Salt & pepper Olive oil

MUSSELS WITH RED ONIONS, CHILLI, AND TOMATOES

by Lino Poli, Head Chef, The Lighthouse Ingredients Serves 2

•N ext blitz the chillies and garlic into a paste using a hand-blender.

1kg fresh mussels in their shells 2 red onions (finely sliced) 2 fresh red chillies 200g of tomato passata

•H eat the olive oil in a large pan, fry the spring onions - if you’ve opted to use them – and add the chilli and garlic paste.

Store cupboard Salt & pepper Olive oil White wine 2 cloves of garlic Handful chopped parsley Bunch of finely sliced spring onions (optional) 100g of chopped lardons of pancetta (optional)

• I f you like the idea of pancetta, now’s the time to add it! Once the pancetta is browned and cooking, add the mussels, a splash of white wine, then cover with a lid. Bring to the boil, then add the passata.

• Clean the mussels by removing the ‘beard’ from the shells, wash in water and drain.

• Remove any outer skin from the chorizo and finely dice.

Remove all skin from the goat’s cheese and crumble up. Mix with chorizo until the mixture is orange in colour.

Season with a little salt and pepper.

• Make a slit down 1 side of each chicken breast to form a pocket, now divide your goats cheese and chorizo

mixture between the 4 chicken breasts. Rub a little olive oil and salt and pepper onto some tin foil and then wrap each of the stuffed chicken breasts in foil.

• Roast in a hot oven on 160°C for about 25 minutes. Once cooked, allow to rest for 5-10 minutes. Be sure to keep all the juices to add to your finished dish.

•W hen the mussel shells are open, they are ready to serve. Sprinkle over some chopped parsley and season to taste. Serve with lots of bread or chips!

•W ash, drain and dry the baby spinach. Once dry, dress in a little olive oil and season. Place your dressed baby spinach into the centre of your bowl and place your carved stuffed chicken breast on top of salad. Divide the juices you put to one side earlier and drizzle around the edge of the bowl.

URBAN FOX JULY 2014 25

Dining events at Hothorpe Hall in 2014

Classic Pie Nights

Fri 26th & Sat 27th September, £19.95pp

UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT All food locally sourced where possible Large Beer Garden • Children Welcome

Faulty Towers: The Dining Experience Thurs 4th & 11th December Theatre & Dinner £45pp, or £150 with Accommodation Theatre & Dinner for two

Open for lunch: 12 - 2.30 Tues-Sun Open for dinner: 5.30 - 9 Tues-Friday, 12 - 9 Sat and 12 - 4 Sunday - try our great Sunday Roasts!

Wednesday Steak Night 2 x 8oz rump steaks and trimmings for £15

Fish & Chip Fridays Fish & Chips for £8.50 reduced from £9.25

Book Online: www.hothorpe.co.uk/specialevents

10th July: Race Night • 2nd July: Morris Dancing Don’t miss our Quiz Night 2nd Monday of each month The Langton Arms, Main Street, Church Langton, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, LE16 7SY. Tel: 01858 545181

T: 01858 881500 E: functions@hothorpe.co.uk Hothorpe Hall & The Woodlands, Theddingworth, LE17 6QX

Feeling overweight and air…

Spring is in the out of breath?

The Gardens at Quorn Hotel stunning at this time year,fortrees of blossom Quorn Grange Gym:Grange the Gym at are Quorn Grange Hotel is of ideal yourfullbusy lifestyle,and weblooming are well flowers are all round this stunning Hotel - why not come along and discover Leicestershire’s hidden gem. equipped, open around the clock and provide an affordable package, easy parking and no lengthy The perfect setting for: tie-in’s or contracts.

• A business trip or short break in one of our 38 beautiful Bedrooms, including a number of Executive

Families canthe also join, providing Undersuite, 16’swhich are supervised bynewlyweds a parent /and guardian they can use Suites and Beautiful William Morris is perfect for romantic breaks. the facilities for free.to mark special occasions for families and friends; weddings, birthdays, anniversaries.

• Memorable events Prices areand competitive £19.95 training a month.

Call 01509 412167 to arrange to come and take a • Spaces support foratBusiness courses, conferences, meetings & events. look, you’ll tasty be glad did...

Fitter, thinner, healthier, the future in your hands.

• Fantastic, foodyou in our Restaurant - served with a selection of is affordable wine and beers.

• Afternoon Teas, hot beverages and home-made snacks, cakes and biscuits in Café 88.

Dates for your Diary….

• Work out at the Quorn Grange Gym or relax with a walk, a game of Boules or pitch and putt in the Saturday August: Shakespeare at Quorn Grange Gardens beautiful 23rd gardens.

4pm to late.Come along with a chair and a picnic or purchase tasty food at the Hotel and enjoy a live There is moreininformation on -our www.quorngrangehotel.co.uk sure £8 youper don’t miss: performance the grounds seewebsite the website for more details. Admissionbut bybe ticket: person.

Jazz Barbecue Saturday Sept: Sunday20th 15th June: Falconry for Father’s Day

2pm start. We are celebrating the end of the summer with a Barbecue and have organised a traditional Jazz Band to keep entertained, Admission by ticket: perand person. special lunch menuyou £18.50 a head (Children under 10 eat£8 free) £25 per person for the Falconry session. Places limited so Quorn book earlyGrange by calling 01509 to avoidFair disappointment.

Hotel412167 Wedding Sunday 26th October:

11am - 4pm. Whether you are planning a lavish affair or at working to a budget our Wedding Fair will Saturday 23rd August: Shakespeare Quorn Grange Gardens provide you with Inspiration to ensure your Wedding Day is the most memorable day of your life. Quorn Come along with a chair and a picnic or purchase tasty food at the Hotel, this is the first time that we have Grange Hotel is the perfect setting for aand wedding thereforward are special packages for Winter held a live performance in the grounds we areand looking to a memorable event - seeand theMidwebsite week Weddings.

Admission to the for more details. Tickets are £8 perWedding person. Fair is Free.

CALL 01509 412167 TO BOOK NOW! www.quorngrangehotel.co.uk • mail@quorngrangehotel.co.uk 88 Wood Lane, Quorn, Leicestershire LE12 8DB

FUSS FREE

WINING & DINING

cooking

SEARED SCALLOPS, TIGER PRAWNS, ASPARAGUS & BUTTERNUT SQUASH

by James Lonergan, Head Chef, Quorn Grange Hotel Ingredients Serves 4

12 hand dived scallops (cleaned & coral removed) 12 tiger prawns (peeled & deveined) 12 spears of asparagus ½ butternut squash Store cupboard Salt & pepper Olive oil Lemon Butter (optional) Micro herbs (optional)

• Wash the scallops well, then place onto a plate lined with kitchen paper. Cover and place in the fridge for 2 hours.

• Bring a pan of salted water to the boil. Hold a piece of asparagus at both ends and bend; with a bit of pressure it should snap easily. Use the first one as a marker to cut the rest to size, remembering to discard the woody part at the bottom.

Blanch the asparagus in boiling water for 1 minute, then refresh in iced cold water, drain and set aside.

• Peel the butternut squash,

remove the seeds, roughly chop and cover with cold water. Bring to the boil and simmer for 10 minutes or until soft. Drain but save some of the cooking liquor.

Then place the butternut squash in a blender with the reserved cooking liquor and blend. If it doesn’t come together easily, you can add some diced butter or you can add it anyway to enrich the flavour. When done, season and set aside.

• Next heat a large non-stick frying pan over a medium heat. When the pan is hot, add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil. When the oil is smoking,

add the chilled scallops and fry for 45-60 seconds.

Turn the scallops over, add a squeeze of lemon and continue to fry for 30 seconds. Then add the prawns to the same pan and cook until the prawns turn pink and are cooked. Season and remove from the heat.

Set aside for 1-2 minutes to absorb the juices.

•F inally reheat the asparagus and squash puree and assemble. I’ve garnished my dish with some micro summer herbs - mustard frills, peashoots and red amirinth.

URBAN FOX JULY 2014 27

Bruntingthorpe

Bespoke event catering in your home or chosen venue Weddings, Family events, Milestone birthdays all catered for.

“Absolutely amazing” - Damian, Queniborough “Beautifully presented and wonderful to taste” - Mairead, Loughborough “It was brilliant” - Alison, Rothley

www.thomasthecaterer.co.uk Tel: 01163 260529

Open for lunch and dinner Tuesday - Saturday A very special Sunday Lunch Michelin Bib Gourmand Award 2014

Friday lunch deal: Fish&Chips £9.97 including a glass of Sauvignon Blanc Visit our website to view our delicious menus and extensive wine list

w w w . t h e j o i n e r s a r m s. c o. u k For Reservations Call 0116 247 8258 Church Walk Bruntingthorpe Leicestershire LE17 5QH

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

WINING & DINING

Eat

below the line

Local business owners Joanne and Damian Withers host a £1 Supper Club, to raise funds for youth and sustainable development charity Raleigh International

T

he idea for the Supper Club held on Friday 13th June, was derived from the ‘Live below the Line’ initiative, which challenges people to live on £1 a day for 5 days. The challenge aims to deepen our understanding of the difficulties faced by individuals living in extreme poverty.

“We are cheating a little”, laughs Joanne, “as technically, the meal should be 33p, as it’s £1 a day for all three meals. But we wanted to give our guests something more than rice and beans!”

The 11 handpicked guests attending the event in Queniborough, were treated to succulent Pork Belly, with Potatoes, Pea Puree and Beetroot, followed by delicious Floating Islands with Honeycombe. All for £11!

We asked Chef, Thomas Bower, how he managed to come up with a menu which offered so much, for so little.

“We still have over £800 left to raise” says Joanne. “If any of your readers would like to set us a challenge or share our story, please follow us at www.facebook.com/ joanneanddamiandoraleigh. Alternatively we’d welcome donations at www. justgiving.com/joanne-withers. We cover our own costs for the expedition, so all the money raised goes directly to Raleigh International.”

“Despite the budget restrictions I really wanted to provide an element of gastronomy for Joanne and Damian’s guests, so I opted for pork belly. Cheaper cuts of meat cook well and are magic for the taste buds.

The dessert was more difficult since I’d already spent £7 on the meat and £2 on vegetables, so it was down to eggs and milk with sugar borrowed from the store cupboard! I always enjoy a challenge and this was definitely a big one!”

So what did the guests think to their £1 supper? “It was delicious,” says Joanne, “and to have two courses was a wonderful bonus. I think some people were expecting gruel, so it was a complete culinary success! We asked our guests to make a donation and raised £270 on the night towards our fundraising target of £3900. The last guests left at 3am so I think it’s safe to say a good time was had by all” The Supper Club was just one of several fundraising ‘challenges’ undertaken by Damian and Joanne and to date they have raised £3,028.68.

Joanne, a photographer and Damian, an architect, will be joining Raleigh International on an expedition to Costa Rica and Nicaragua in September 2014.

Damian will be assisting in important development and infrastructure programmes, in rural community sites and Joanne will be Raleigh's in-country photographer, documenting the important works being carried out across the various regions.

For more information about Raleigh and the charity’s expeditions to Borneo, Costa Rica & Nicaragua and Tanzania, visit raleighinternational.org.uk.

Or if you would like to find out more about doing your own ‘Live below the Line’ challenge go to livebelowtheline.com/uk/challenge

URBAN FOX JULY 2014 29

URBAN FOX JULY 2014 31

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

WestEnd Stage actress Linzi Hateley, talks to our Editor about her love of the theatre and her latest role in Cameron Mackintosh’s Barnum

W

hen I first saw Linzi Hateley perform in the early 90s alongside Jason Donovan in Joseph, I was blown away by the power of her voice. The production ran for over two years and won the 21 year old Linzi an Olivier nomination. Her career has gone from strength to strength with appearances on Broadway, with the RSC and at The National Theatre, as well as lead roles in numerous West End musicals including Grease, Chicago, Mamma Mia and Mary Poppins.

Linzi is now set to star as Chairy in Cameron Mackintosh’s stage spectacular Barnum which goes on tour from September, starting at Leicester’s very own Curve theatre.

For anyone who doesn’t know, what is Barnum about?

Barnum is based on the life of the showman P.T Barnum. He loves spectacle and excitement, using hype and humbug.

His wife Chairy disagrees with him on a lot of things but loves him very much, so tries to keep him grounded. I’m not giving the rest away! Let's just say it's full of circus tricks and beautiful songs.

You’ve starred in a number of Cameron Mackintosh productions over the years, and now Barnum; what’s the attraction?

I've worked for Cameron on and off for 26 years. I think if you work on a Cameron show you know he will always pull out the stops to make it the best possible production it can be. The role of Chairy is really the back bone to the piece. A truly wonderful part with some amazing scenes to play and stunning songs to sing.

You’ve also had a close affinity with Leicester’s Haymarket Theatre during your career, are you looking forward to returning to the city?

I've done some wonderful work in Leicester thanks to Paul Kerryson, Into the Woods, The Rink and Oliver! but I haven't performed there in years, since having my daughter, so I'm really looking forward to performing at Curve and being back in Leicester for a bit.

What can you tell us about the tour?

The tour does three months and then there is a break over Christmas followed by another six months in the New Year.

Believe it or not, it’s actually my first

proper tour so it will be a new experience for me. I'm looking forward to visiting places I haven't been to before but I’m sure the novelty of hotels will wear off after a while!

You’ve been performing for over 30 years, do you still find auditioning nervewracking?

I find auditioning more nerve-wracking the older I've got! I find it wears my confidence down having to keep proving myself after so many years in the business.

Is there a role that stands out for you?

Yes but for different reasons. I would’ve loved to have had a crack at Dot in Stephen Sondheim’s Sunday in the Park with George but it wasn't meant to be and very early in my career, I turned down Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz for the RSC to play Eponine in Les Miserables. If I'd known how long Les Mis was going to run I might have done things differently! The role of Roxie in Chicago also stands out because it was so unlike anything I'd played before and surprised a few people. Plus that show gets you very thin!

d girl Have your roles changed as you’ve got older?

Of course the parts change over the years but I've just been lucky to play a complete mix of characters and not been pigeon holed to one type of style.

I'd really like to do Mrs Johnson in Blood Brothers one day.

Did becoming a mum change how you worked?

Absolutely. Becoming a Mum changes everything! My daughter is my best production to date. It does make working more precious in a way because it has really got to be worth it to not be there to put your baby to bed. Theatre hours are not family friendly!

What would you say is the recipe to success in musical theatre?

Never thinking you’ve made it. Treat every job like it could be your last. Be versatile but honest to yourself and find a partner with a regular job!

With spending so much time on stage for work, do you still enjoy going to the theatre?

I love to go to the theatre. I was recently in New York doing my one woman cabaret so managed to catch some shows there. My top favourite was Pippin.

Truly amazing!

Finally this is our ‘less is more’ edition, is that something you can relate to?

Less is more is something I've learnt to do as a performer. The skill is to make it look easy, because believe me, it isn't!

You can see Barnum at Curve from 5th-13th September 2014.

For more details visit www.curveonline.co.uk/barnum

URBAN FOX JULY 2014 33

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

film REVIEW Chinese Puzzle (15)

1hr 57mins Fri 18 - Thu 24 Jul at The Phoenix 0116 242 2800 | phoenix.org.uk In this comedy-drama from France, the gorgeous Romain Duris (Populaire, The Beat that My Heart Skipped) stars as Xavier, a 40-year old father facing both a divorce and his Ex taking their two children to New York. Deciding to move after them, Xavier settles into the only place he can afford: Chinatown, Manhattan. His positive attitude soon endears him to the locals, but his immigrant status forces him into some difficult decisions.

Although relatively unknown in the UK, director Cédric Klapisch has made a name for himself in his native France for witty, urbane comedies including Russian Dolls and Paris, so hopefully this new feel-good film will bring him to a wider audience.

A master at exploring the complexities of modern life with a light touch, Klapisch navigates this multi-layered love story with ease, supported by a

winning performance from his frequent collaborator Duris.

Perhaps the only minor problem with Chinese Puzzle lies in trying to keep track of Xavier’s love life with divorce, greencard marriage and a visit from his exlover Martine (Amélie’s Audrey Tautou) thrown in; but with a crisp, zingy script and superb supporting cast including Kelly Reilly and Cécile De France, it makes for the perfect summer evening film.

WIN

SIGNED HEARTFELT NOVELS You read about her in last month’s My Way and now local author Adrienne Vaughan is offering 3 Urban Fox readers’ the chance to win the first two novels in her Heartfelt trilogy, The Hollow Heart and A Change of Heart.

When award-winning journalist, Marianne Coltrane takes a career break and escapes to a remote Irish isle, the last thing on her mind is romance.

Particularly when she runs into actor, Ryan O’Gorman, who she considers one of the most conceited, infuriating men on the planet. She begins to see him in a different light when the island suffers a

terrible storm, and the longer she’s there the more she discovers how much they, and the islanders have in common.

Laced with glamour and intrigue, adventure and suspense, these beguiling tales are filled with characters you’ll love, in a landscape you won’t want to leave.

Described as ‘Maeve Binchy meets Jackie Collins’ Adrienne is currently working on the last in the series, Secrets of the Heart.

You can follow her progress on twitter @adrienneauthor. The novels are also available to purchase at amazon.co.uk

To Enter

Simply email your name, address and contact telephone number to editor@ theurban-fox.co.uk inserting ‘Heartfelt’ in the subject bar. Closing date for entries is Friday 29 August 2014.

Terms & Conditions The winner will be notified on or after the closing date. The Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. The prize is nontransferrable and no cash alternative is available.

26 JUL – 10 AUG

n i n A e A CURVE COMMUNITY PRODUCTION

BOOK BY THOMAS MEEHAN

MUSIC BY CHARLES STROUSE

LYRICS BY MARTIN CHARNIN

DIRECTED BY PAUL KERRYSON Photos from previous Curve community productions

31 JUL, 1, 4 & 7 AUG A CURVE COMMUNITY PRODUCTION

BOOK, MUSIC & LYRICS BY JONATHAN LARSON

DIRECTED BY PAUL KERRYSON These amateur productions are presented by arrangement with Josef Weinberger Ltd. on behalf of Music Theatre International of New York.

URBAN FOX JULY 2014 35

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

WHAT’S ON

JULY/AUGUST 2014

South Pacific

Tue 1 Jul - Sun 13 Jul Kilworth House Theatre, North Kilworth Tickets from £25 kilworthhousetheatre.co.uk

This epic award winning musical follows a group of American sailors and Navy nurses stationed in the South Pacific during World War II and the two parallel love stories that are threatened by the dangers of war and prejudice. The songs from this wonderful show have become some of the most memorable standards including: ‘Bali Ha’i’, ‘I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair’, ‘Some Enchanted Evening’, ‘There is Nothing Like a Dame’, ‘Happy Talk’ and ‘Younger Than Springtime’.

Skylight

Thu 17 & Thu 31 Jul Phoenix Cinema, Leicester Tickets £15 (conc. apply) phoenix.org.uk

Bill Nighy and Carey Mulligan feature in the highly anticipated production

of David Hare’s Skylight, broadcast live (Thu 17 July only) from the West End

by National Theatre Live.

On a bitterly cold London evening, schoolteacher Kyra Hollis (Mulligan) receives an unexpected visit from her former lover, Tom Sergeant (Nighy), a successful and charismatic restaurateur whose wife has recently died. As the evening progresses, the two attempt to rekindle their once passionate relationship only to find themselves locked in a dangerous battle of opposing ideologies and mutual desires.

André Rieu

Sat 19 & Sun 20 Jul Cinema De Lux, Leicester Tickets £12.50 cinemadelux.co.uk

Help celebrate the 10th Anniversary of André Rieu’s traditional summer evening concerts, staged on the most romantic city square in The Netherlands: the Vrijthof in Maastricht! The dramatic and alluring medieval square will be transformed into a

André Rieu, 19-20 July, Cinema Deluxe

romantic open-air concert, featuring André and his famous 60 piece Johann Strauss Orchestra, along with many famous guest artists, soloists, light shows and spectacular fireworks. Spoken parts in English and Dutch with some English subtitles supplied.

Leicester’s most loved music venues, The Donkey, Firebug and The Musician, the festival is a celebration of local talent with some more nationallyrecognised names including The South, complementing the line-up. Simon Says is the perfect city centre festival with a rural feel.

Simon Says

Annie

Tickets from £15 (conc. apply) demontforthall.co.uk

Tickets from £8.50 curveonline.co.uk

After the success of last year’s sell-out festival, Simon Says returns to De Montfort Hall and Gardens. Presented in partnership with three of

Curve’s professional production team will again be joining forces with a group of hugely talented local performers for their

Sat 26 – Sun 27 Jul De Montfort Hall, Leicester

Sat 26 Jul – Sun 10 Aug Curve Theatre, Leicester

Simon Says, 26-27 July, De Montfort Hall

Fine Jewellery From the Victorian era to

South Pacific, 1-13 July, Kilworth House

20th century iconic designers 4th annual community production, the Tony Awardwinning musical Annie.

Directed by Paul Kerryson and set against the backdrop of the American Great Depression, this uplifting tale features the well-known classics ‘Tomorrow’, ‘Little Girls’ and ‘Easy Street’.

Join Annie and her faithful companion, dog Sandy, on their heart-warming adventure to find the family they are longing for.

Caribbean Carnival

Sat 2 Aug Victoria Park, Leicester Free Event leicestercarnival.com

The 29th annual Caribbean Carnival promises to turn the city into a riot of colour with this year’s theme being ‘A Celebration of Nelson Mandela’. The opening ceremony is at Victoria Park, followed by a vibrant street carnival through the city centre, featuring dance troupes, creative colourful floats and magnificent costumes.

City Festival

Sat 16 – Mon 25 Aug City Centre, Leicester Free Event visitleicester.info/cityfestival

The City Festival is back for a second year, incorporating previous events such as ‘SportsFest’ and the ‘Old

Town’ and ‘Journeys’ festivals, plus new activities including the ‘Night of Festivals’, celebrating freedom and independence through innovative art and artistic inspiration and ‘Safe House’, a spectacular large-scale outdoor performance that explores the significance of home and the importance of being part of a community.

With an array of free activities for all ages, including sports, culture, music, art, heritage and more, the City Festival provides a great reason to stay local this August.

18 carat gold and enamel lily brooch attributed to tiffany. Sold for £8,400

The Comedy of Errors

Sat 30 Aug Jewry Wall Museum, Leicester Tickets £12 (conc. apply) leicester.gov.uk/museums

Shakespeare comes to Leicester for a superb outdoor production in the atmospheric surroundings of the Jewry Wall Roman ruins. The Comedy of Errors tells the story of two sets of identical twins that were accidentally separated at birth. When the brothers all end up in the same city, a series of wild mishaps ensue, leading to wrongful beatings, a near-seduction, arrest, false accusations of infidelity, theft, madness, and demonic possession! The grounds open for picnics at 6.30pm.

Advance tickets are available from The Guildhall on 0116 253 2569.

our resident Jewellery specialist is now accepting pieces For our september Fine art sale designers and items of interest include: cartier ･ tiffany ･ Kutchinsky ･ Fabergé ･ castellani chanel ･ elsa schiaparelli ･ micro mosaic insect brooches ･ sufragette Jewels ･ andrew grima david thomas ･ John donald ･ ivan tarrat ･ bvlgari georg Jensen ･ chopard ･ lapponia david anderson ･ hans hansen

Sale date: Tuesday 23rd September closing date for entries into catalogue 22nd august enquiries: sales@gildings.co.uk 01858 410414

gildings auctioneers

Market HarborougH SalerooM tHe Mill great bowden road le16 7de

Harveys Windows are proud to announce that we are one of the ďŹ rst local traders to have been accepted onto the Which Trusted Trader scheme please come and see us to ďŹ nd out why

For more information, call Harveys on 0116 233 4441 Showroom: Empire Road, Leicester LE3 5HE Open Weekdays 9-5, Saturday 10-1 info@harveyswindows.co.uk www.harveyswindows.co.uk

Helping you build your dream garden consultancy | design | planting schemes re-style | makeovers | specialist pruning Contact Lucy on 07772 074402 or email info@greenspaceleicester.co.uk www.greenspaceleicester.co.uk Twitter: @PlantsExpert

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.

HOMES & GARDENS

Tips from the

POTTING SHED

This month’s tips are courtesy of Lucy Turner at Greenspace Garden Design I’ve just moved home and my garden looks like a wasteland, with bare patches of soil. I don’t have much free time so what can I do to maximise the space, whilst minimising the workload?

The simple answer is ‘Groundcover’.

This quite literally means covering the soil with lots of plants to reduce opportunities for weeds and such like to germinate and grow. Even weeds do not succeed if there is no light for them to start shooting.

Using plants as groundcover creates an attractive carpet effect, brightening up otherwise dull areas. It is ideal for a lowmaintenance garden and maximises the benefits of seasonal plants.

When selecting plants consider whether they will be planted in a sunny spot or a shadier part of your garden. Sun, semishade and shade loving plants, can all successfully serve as groundcover.

There are all sorts of plant options for you to choose from, including shrubs - either ‘evergreen’ or ‘deciduous’ perennials and even common-or-garden grass, which is great for high foot traffic areas.

Ground cover can be planted on mass under trees with a mix of larger shrubs to provide attractive swathes of planting, or alternatively you can plant in clumps along with smaller shrubs to define the edge of a bed or provide cover around the base of a specimen plant.

Saponaria

Big Blue

Some of my favourite groundcover plants Liriope muscari or Big Blue is an evergreen perennial providing all year round interest, with its glossy dark green, grass-like foliage and spire-shaped purple flowers.

Saponaria flowers abundantly during July to September with clustered bright pink flowers, providing a carpet of colour. This perennial will spread rapidly and is ideal for edges.

Sarcococca confusa is a compact mound-forming evergreen shrub with dark green, tear-shaped leaves; presenting scented pink & white flowers January-March and black berries in winter.

Rhododendron yakushimanum or Dwarf Rhododendron is an evergreen shrub offering spring flowers and attractive winter foliage. It’s ideal for naturalistic semishaded borders or woodland planting.

Whichever you choose remember to dig in plenty of soil conditioner if your soil is poor and water generously and regularly after planting.

Now all the hard work (well not that hard really) has been done; you can sit back, relax and enjoy your new garden and let the plants do all the work!

URBAN FOX JULY 2014 39

Debenhams

An English

afFAIR Bring the fun of the village fete to your garden this summer. From tableware, decorations and good old fashioned entertainment, we’ve got it covered!

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6 Table Arrangement Vase £15.95, annabeljames.co.uk 7 Orla Kiely Tea Light Lanterns £29.85, cuckooland.com

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Is your garden a verdant oasis after this spring’s record rainfall? Why not make all that gorgeous foliage the beautiful backdrop to a new kitchen, study or family room? With a versatile, energy-efficient orangery from EAS, you can enjoy the outdoors, whatever you’re doing indoors.

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Showhome at 25 New Street, Oadby, Leicester, LE2 5EB URBAN FOX JULY 2014 41

ANDREW GRANGER & CO

Passionate about property Whether looking to buy or rent, we have the right property for you.

See our full listing at www.andrewgranger.co.uk

Spencefield Lane, Evington £850,000

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Chartered Surveyors, Property Management, Planning & Professional Services Andrew Granger & Co. 10-12 Rutland St, Leicester LE1 1RD

Call 0116 242 9922 www.andrewgranger.co.uk

HOMES & GARDENS

Garden Appeal

A

n attractive, well-kept garden can be especially important to many buyers, particularly in Leicestershire. So it’s important that your garden adds to the potential of your property. If you are thinking of putting your house on the market, it’s time to trim those hedgerows or tackle that jungle. Don’t worry if gardening isn’t your natural strong point, as you don’t need a single green finger to follow these tips!

Tidy tidy tidy Make your garden spick and span, simply by tidying up. That’s right – front and back as first impressions do count! Throw away any old tools, broken pottery and unfinished DIY projects left out in the rain. Take the same pride as you would inside your home.

John Lewis

Historian Thomas Fuller once said “a good garden may have some weeds”, but when you’re trying to sell your house, weeds are not a good look.

So this month Mark Sandall of Andrew Granger & Co, shares his ideas on how to ensure your garden clinches the sale

Green grass of home

Keep pets in check

If you have a lawn, keep it mown and give it a trim around the edges. An immaculate lawn will give the overall impression of a neat garden, so keep it fed and watered too. An overgrown garden can have a certain romance, but to most buyers it just looks like too much hard work to tackle!

Many people are animal lovers, but some would rather not have them or their toys around when viewing a property.

Have a quick scout round to make sure there isn’t any objectionable evidence of your pets in the garden – it only takes a moment!

Create a blank canvas

If you’re not blessed with acres of pasture, a smaller garden can still look wonderful. Consider buying some inexpensive patio furniture, it can make a real difference to the feel of a garden.

Plant pots add an instant splash of colour but remember to water them – dead flowers aren’t a good look!

Unless you already have a hot tub, decking or a water feature, there’s no need to invest in them. If an interested buyer has lavish ideas for a Zen garden or entertainment space, show off the blank canvas for them to envision their dreams.

Hide your laundry Everyone has to do their washing but airing your laundry - dirty or clean - will detract from the beauty of your garden.

Keep your washing hidden until after prospective buyers have gone and where possible ensure the line is not in plain sight. Retractable lines offer the perfect solution.

Be clever with space

Sweet smell of success Finally the aroma of freshly baked bread has been used for decades to entice potential buyers. So make sure your whole property, garden included, smells neutral, yet pleasant. Lavender, mint and honeysuckle are all fabulous fragrant options.

URBAN FOX JULY 2014 43

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URBAN FOX JULY 2014 45

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Kitchens & Bedrooms

ToTo relaunch the recently refitted relaunch the recently refitted showroom, Dewhirsts Dewhirsts are holding an showroom, are holding an open day onday Saturday June 2011 open on11th Saturday 11th June 2011 from 11 am. 11 am. from

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HOMES & GARDENS Marlow at Maison Interiors

Grey Shades of

Elegant and compelling, grey is the new white and one of the hottest go-to colours for designers. Whatever your style, there’s a shade of grey for you 3

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URBAN FOX JULY 2014 47

Could you share your life?

Do you think you could welcome an adult with disabilities into your home?

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Adhesives, oils, lacquers, cleaning products, skirting & door trims etc available from stock

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HOMES & GARDENS

Modern

Minimalism

All images courtesy of Maison Interiors

Minimalism is a symbol of modern design and although created in the middle of the last century, remains very current.

We asked Zoe Hubbard of Maison Interiors for her ideas and inspiration for creating the minimalist look in your home The minimalist concept is all about extreme simplicity, stripping a room back to its bare minimum. Done badly it can be extremely cold and stark but done in the right way, this less is more design approach, minimises fussiness and can create a therapeutic and calming living space.

if you have a box-like sofa, mirror this with squared accessories and occasional furniture; or if you have a curved chair, use a rounded light fitting. Reflective materials generally work well, consider incorporating glass, mirror, high-gloss and metal into the design.

Storage

Lighting

The key to this look is clutter-free living. There are several types of modern minimalist storage concepts, including flexible storage, storage-exposure, aesthetic, concealed and mix and match. My personal favourite is hidden storage. As the name implies, it’s hidden or positioned in unexpected places such as in the wall, staircase or within a piece of furniture.

Harlequin

Windows

If you have bi-fold doors or a glass structure, try not to use any window coverings. Bare is best! However, if you are over-looked by neighbours or are concerned that it looks too stark, keep it plain and simple.

Raw materials like linen and cotton look great, with a wave heading for ultimate simplicity.

No tie-backs or trims required.

Plantation shutters are also a fabulous option.

Furniture

Furnishings can make or break a minimalist scheme. Get it right by using repetition of structure to create a sense of order, e.g.

Mica

Lighting is extremely important in achieving this look. Cleverly layer your lighting, choosing 4 to 5 different sources of light and zoning them. For example install a decorative pendant in the centre of the room; optimise feature lighting to emphasise any key design elements; utilise underfloor or skirting-board spotlights, as well as incorporating unit and wall lighting.

Floors

For flooring ‘Go hard or go home’! Wood or tile creates a great impact especially when using products like Amtico which can be laid in various different unusual designs. Of course hard flooring can be cold, which is another great reason to choose a vinyl option, as they’re a lot warmer. For additional warmth and depth, use a plain shaggy rug.

Colour

White is always guaranteed to add a sense of space and freshness and can be as dramatic, as a room awash with all the colours of the rainbow. If you are concerned about going all the way with white, try using it only on your windows, cushions, rugs and lighting and use another shade for staple items including soft furnishings and flooring.

URBAN FOX JULY 2014 51

Technology to change the way you buy flooring...

Michael John Flooring are excited to announce the launch of our new instore Amtico Design Centre bringing you a shopping experience like no other. Featuring technology that allows you to be at the very heart of your interior designs.

Design Centre

188 - 190 Narborough Road, Leicester LE3 0BU T 0116 254 1853 37 - 41 London Road, Oadby, Leicester, LE2 5DL T 0116 271 2584 E sales@michael-john.co.uk

www.michael-john.co.uk

“Commitment Time”

“Dependents Time”

“Creation Time”

“Me Time”

MORTGAGES

PROTECTION

INVESTMENTS & SAVINGS

RETIREMENT PLANNING

It’s about time you called Tudor Court Financial Planning All our advice is expertly tailored to your individual circumstances, ensuring you receive the right advice at the right time.

Call Tudor Court today on 01509

643388 or email via our contact page on our website www.tudor-court.com

Tudor Court Financial Planning Ltd is an appointed representative of Everyday Financial Advice Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

Emery Johnson Astills Because property matters Expert conveyancing can make the difference between a sound financial investment and a long term liability.

Whether you’re buying or selling your home, or leasing commercial premises, trust our specialist conveyancing solicitors to look after your interests in person.

Call us on

0116 255 4855 www.johnsonastills.com 3-5 Welford Road, Leicester LE2 7AD • Woodgate Chambers, Loughborough, LE11 2TZ The Springboard Centre, Coalville LE67 3DW

LIFE & WORK

Financial Diet The

Track your Progress

Check out our 5-2 approach to finances, plus other tips to make your cash go further

Remember to track your spending.

Similarly to dieting, if you write down everything you eat, you usually eat less. The same applies to spending. Using a money app on your phone can really help to monitor where your cash is going magazines, snacks, manicures etc.

Spending Tracker for iPhone is free to download or use your bank app to monitor what bills are going out and when you’re near your limit.

The 5-2 Diet

Choose 2 days a week and spend only a limited about of money. It’s hard to cut-back permanently but this approach means you can go back to normal after your ‘fast days’. On these days, walk to work instead of taking the bus, make a packed lunch rather than spend money on an overpriced salad, avoid the shops during your lunch hour and above all, leave your credit card at home.

Change your Habits

Never pay more than you need to.

Start with large bills such as insurance, utilities, broadband etc. using comparison websites such as uswitch. com and moneysupermarket.com to get the best deal. You can also make small changes to your spending habits such as the supermarket or petrol station you use, or cutting out that takeaway coffee on the way to work. It’ll soon add up!

Avoid a Blowout Follow a Plan

Set a budget and stick to it. We’re all good at budgeting for the essentials but we often overlook expenses such as presents, holidays, new tyres on the car etc. So create a monthly budget which takes into account your must-haves, like mortgage, food etc. (approx. 50-70% of your income), the things you don’t want to live without (girls’ night out, hair appointment) and finally around 10% as an emergency fund.

Make a positive swap. All too often we deny ourselves life’s little luxuries in a bid to save money, only to have a financial equivalent to a post-diet blowout. Instead make some small trade-offs. Stop buying that monthly copy of Vogue which if you’re honest, you only tend to flick through and use the money to buy the luxurious face cream you’ve had your eye on. By making a positive choice, you’re more likely to stick to it.

URBAN FOX JULY 2014 55

It’s the difference a family makes Could you find a future in fostering?

Our foster carers come from many different backgrounds and circumstances. What they all have in common is knowing that giving a child the stability and warmth of family life is one of the most rewarding things you can do.

If you’re over 21 and have a spare room which could be used solely for fostering, please get in touch. You don’t need to be married or have your own children to be able to foster.

In return you will be provided with outstanding training, on-going support, a generous allowance and be given the opportunity to build a career in fostering.

At compass, we will look after carers as well as children and when you join you become part of a welcoming supportive community of professionals.

From the minute you make contact with us, our experienced team will listen to you and assist you every step of the way.

Contact us now on 0800 566 8317 or visit compassfostering.com for more information

Stepping forward together

In a Jam?

In a sticky situation?

For dispute resolution, litigation and debt recovery, call

0116 204 7260

19 New Walk, Leicester LE1 6TE

Don’t get in a jam, make it!

Ingredients 900g (2 lb) fresh strawberries, hulled 800g (1 3/4 lb) caster sugar 4 tablespoons lemon juice

www.hlegal.co.uk

1) In a heavy bottomed saucepan, crush the strawberries with a potato masher.

mail@hlegal.co.uk

3) Transfer to hot sterile jars, leaving 1cm (1/2 in) headspace, and seal. Process any unsealed jars in a water bath. If the jam is 2) Add sugar and lemon juice. Stir over low going to be eaten right away, don’t bother heat until the sugar is dissolved. Increase with processing, and just refrigerate. heat to high, and bring the mixture to a Enjoy! full rolling boil. Boil, stirring often, until Look out for more recipes next month. the mixture reaches 105 C.

LIFE & WORK

We

Images: www. gltc.co.uk

Play

Is your house filled with unused toys and cries of boredom? We explore how young children develop better psychologically, physically, and socially with less toys and more play Puppets and dolls promote engaging play and conversation, and enable children to adopt roles different from the ones they have in real life e.g. nursery teacher, mummy.

Tactile activities such as play-dough, sand and water are important for small muscle development and offer opportunities for expressing emotions.

Card and board games enable children to develop skills in taking turns, sharing and understanding rules. Group games also help with language development and learning to negotiate.

Outdoor play can fuel a child’s imagination. Activities such as ball

games, skipping, climbing etc. are also good for large muscle development.

Dressing Up gives children the chance to be whoever they want to be. It doesn’t have to cost anything either. Let them use any old clothes, and accessories which you no longer wear.

Creative play with arts and crafts opens up endless possibilities for a child to create, try out new ideas and problemsolve. Small muscle and hand-eye coordination skills are also developed.

Construction toys are a great way to promote an awareness of space. The concepts of number, shape, size and colour can be learned through blocks, jigsaws and with posting boxes.

Toy Test

Don’t know if your children have too many toys? Take our quiz!

• Do they play with one toy for less than 15 minutes at a time?

• Do they complain about being bored?

• Do they ask for more toys on a regular basis?

• Do they take care of what they have?

• If a toy breaks, do they expect you to buy a replacement?

If you answered yes to three or more, it’s quite possible your child has more toys than they need.

Cut the clutter

Tackle the toy box, with our 5 tips to minimise the toys in your home

1 2 3 4 5

Put any unused toys which are clean and in good working order into boxes and donate to playgroups, charity shops etc. Then throw away any broken toys.

Involve your kids in the de-cluttering process. Let them take responsibility for the decisions about which toys should stay and which should go.

Agree on a space for toys e.g. a box, shelf or unit and once the space is full, no more toys can be added. If they want to add following a birthday or Christmas, they’ll need to remove first.

Find a local toy library which provides educational toys. They’re no/low cost and most importantly returnable, so your home won’t be cluttered with unused toys.

Lead by example. If you always want the latest technology, or product on the market, they will too. It’s unreasonable to expect anything less.

URBAN FOX JULY 2014 57

Pet

Care LEICESTER

HOME-FROM-HOME BOARDING PET PAMPERING • DAY CARE DOG-WALKING • HOME VISITS • We offer bespoke services tailored to individual client needs • The happiness and wellbeing of pets is our top priority • Receive daily updates on Facebook or via e-mail • Skype calls available for live interaction between pets and owners

Home

29 Glenfield Road East, Leicester, LE3 5QW

Open:

9am - 7pm Weekdays 9am - 3pm Saturdays

Puppy Vaccine Course £39.99 Dog Vaccine Booster £23.99 Kennel Cough Vaccine £12.99 Dog Castrate £79.99 - £89.99 Dog Spay £94.99 - £129.99 Kitten Vaccine Course from £34.99 Cat Vaccine Booster from £19.99 Cat Castrate £34.99 Cat Spay £48.99

Tel: 0116 251 7677

leicester@bestfriendsgroup.com

www.bestfriendsgroup.com facebook.com/bestfriendsvetsleicester

Alone

Balancing work and family commitments can /leave your Tel: 0116 225 1930 07717 375dog 953 Email: alone forpetcareleicester@outlook.com long periods of time. We look at ways you can care for your dog and work too 1 take your dog to work Granted this option is not viable for every job but if you work for a small company, outdoors or on your own, this may well be possible. Your boss might be a fellow dog lover and be happy to oblige.

Dogs Trust Loughborough Summer Show 2014

2 Work from home Depending on your job could you possibly change your working patterns to flexi-time and/or perform some of your duties at home? This will ensure that you are on hand to provide the care your pet needs.

Sunday 27 July 2014, 11.00am to 4.00pm

th 3 go home for lunch If your work journey takes 10 mins each way and you get an hour for lunch, this might be an option. 40 mins at home will give you enough time to let your dog out or perhaps have a short walk. Location: Turnpost Farm,

East Road, Wymeswold, LE12 6ST

4 Hire a dog walker (for sat navs use LE12 6SU) Consider using a professional dog walking service. Pricing options vary with group walks with other dogs being the most Entry Fee: £1 per person – dogs are free! cost effective. Check that they’re fully insured to take possession Parking of your house keys and Free supervise your dog

Contact Telephone Number:

5 doggy day care 01509 882966 or 07833 050868 This is effectively a canine crèche. If your dog’s outgoing and sociable with other dogs, this can be a great experience. Similar to professional childcare, this option can be expensive, but it Reg. Charity Numbers: 227523 and SC037843 does provide quality entertainment for your dog.

0283 DGT Open Day Advert [Loughborough 73 x 109].indd 1

25/06/2014 22:08

LIFE & WORK

The

BIG O

With the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals reporting that 2.5 million dogs are suffering from OBESITY, it would seem Britain’s animal lovers are at risk of killing their pets with kindness According to pdsa.org.uk more than 10 million pets are getting fatty treats, due to owners sharing their own unhealthy eating habits in a well-intentioned but misguided attempt to make them happy

Practice portion control. Measure each bowl according to the right serving size listed on pet food labels.

It’s also best to provide food as ‘meals’ rather than having a bowl filled with food all the time

The PAW Report, produced in conjunction with YouGov, discovered a range of inappropriate treats are being fed to pets including fast food, crisps, biscuits, chocolate and chips

Routinely weigh your dog. It’s easier for us to notice weight gain from how our clothes fit, for dogs it’s not so straight forward. Get in the habit of weighing your pet and you’ll notice any gains sooner Can you feel the ribs easily? Can you see an abdominal tuck from the side? Do they have a wellproportioned waist from an overhead view? If the answer is NO your dog may be overweight

Encourage your pet to do some exercise.

Most dogs need around one hour of active movement daily. So spend more time playing with your pet

Consult your vet. They will be able to provide a thorough health check and if necessary recommend a weight reduction programme

Less treats, more food. Eliminate treats and scraps from the table. If they whine or beg at family meal-times, give them attention not food. Pet them for a while or even take them outside

Overweight or obesity can cause diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, kidney disease, high blood pressure, heart disease, certain cancers, and more

Hair of the...

A natural doggy treat that won’t pile on the pounds!

WildWash Dark Coats Shampoo, 300ml £14.95, wildwash.co.uk Pet Head Oatmeal Natural Shampoo, 355 ml £9.99, amazon.co.uk Health Mutt ‘Soothe’ Organic Dog Shampoo, 100ml £3.99, healthmutt.co.uk Organic Oscar Aloe Vera Shampoo, 286ml £8.99, dogsnaturally.co.uk

URBAN FOX JULY 2014 59

Know Your Blood Pressure - 10th July, 10am - 3pm Everyone welcome to drop into South Lodge and have your blood pressure taken. Refreshments will be available. This event is run in association with www.stroke.org.uk

Dementia Awareness - 24th July All your questions answered about dementia, what it is and how it impacts on your daily life

Healthy Eye Week - 22nd – 28th September A week packed full of different events to highlight the importance of healthy eyes. What happens when things go wrong, the signs to look for and lots of inform”eye”tive information!

Please call to find out more.

We look forward to seeing you at South Lodge.

Contact us today to find out more.

307 London Road, Stoneygate, Leicester LE2 3ND. Email Rachael.Startin@signaturesl.co.uk Telephone 0116 2179 736

PEOPLE & PLACES

SCILLY season

Thirty miles southwest of Lands’ End is the closest thing the UK has to the Caribbean.

We explore what makes the Scilly Isles the destination of choice for Brits looking to get away from it all

T

he Scilly Isles consists of five inhabited islands, set amongst hundreds of smaller islands providing homes to numerous species of seabirds and marine animals. The islands offer great contrast, each with its own unique character. We were marooned on St Mary’s and Tresco for our one week stay.

St Mary’s can be reached by air with a Skybus from Exeter, Newquay and Lands’ End airports, or like us, start the holiday as you mean to go on and take the longer but infinitely more relaxing ferry boat ride from Penzance. Onward travel to Tresco is via the island boat service.

ST MARY’S

is the largest island, forming the economic centre of the Scilly Isles. At two and a half by one and three-quarter miles, St Mary’s is home to around threequarters of the population of the islands.

Here you’ll find a local history museum, restaurants, art and craft galleries, a bustling harbour and some thirty miles of nature trails and country walks. St Mary’s is also a wonderful retreat for sports enthusiasts offering everything from golf, cycling, horse-and riding, to sailing windsurfing and scuba diving.

STAY at the Guard House Cottage (sleeps 4), from £600 - £2,600 per week. The 17th century Guard House has been lovingly refurbished and has a private garden terrace, with panoramic views of the harbour and islands of Samson, Bryher, Tresco and St Martins. duchyofcornwallholidaycottages.co.uk EAT at Speros Beach Café and Restaurant, perfectly situated on Porthmellon Beach with stunning views over the harbour. Sample the local fish with a selection of Smoked Salmon, Local Crab, Smoked Mackerel & Prawns, all served with delicious homemade bread.

TRESCO

is the second largest of the islands and a subtropical gem. It offers a bit of everything, from Bronze Age burial sites, romantic castle ruins, secluded sandy beaches and the world famous Tresco Abbey Garden. You can hire bikes to travel around, or borrow a boat or kayak from Tresco Sailing Club. If you’re feeling less active, check out the treatments at the Flying Boat Club Spa. All the beaches on Tresco are beautifully tranquil, but Appletree Bay’s views across the Tresco Straits to Bryher Island give it the edge.

STAY at the Sea Garden Cottages (Sleeps 2-3), from £160 per night. Each cottage has a first floor en-suite double bedroom with balcony, patio and garden area with some of the best views of the island. Larger cottages are available to rent by the week. www.tresco.co.uk/staying-on-tresco/ sea-garden-cottages EAT at the Med-inspired Ruin Beach Café, awarded a gold standard by Condé Nast Traveller Magazine in 2013. For lunch, plump for a wood-fired pizza or the spicy crab linguini, with a refreshing salad.

URBAN FOX JULY 2014 61

MY WAY

Aly Dilks Medical professional and mum of three, talks to us about her love of nursing, missing socks and her involvement in ground-breaking diabetic research For as long as I remember, I wanted to be a nurse; so after finishing school, I trained at Queen Elizabeth School of Nursing in Birmingham, qualifying in 1988. After nursing in the UK for 18 months I decided to spread my wings and travel to Australia. I had a great time working in Sydney, before backpacking around Oz and South East Asia.

Unexpectedly my two sons, George and Joe were both diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.

It was a very different prospect, dealing with diabetes within my own home. As a Mum you want to take control of the situation but it was important to me that my boys were able to lead normal independent lives.

When back in England, I decided to become a midwife, completing my degree at DMU. Unfortunately there were very few jobs for midwives, so for the next 8 years I worked as a district nursing sister in Oadby, providing terminal care in the community. I loved this job and often ended up feeling like part of the family.

After reading about the DMU’s research into the artificial pancreas – which essentially alleviates the need for insulin injections for type 1 diabetes patients – I got in touch with Prof. Taylor to see if I could help by raising money.

I then worked for a homeless health care unit and I spent many an hour wandering the streets looking for homeless people that had gone AWOL. My poor husband Tim, would often find his clothes or socks missing as I would take them to work to give to people who had very little.

Our summer garden party and masquerade ball raised a staggering £5500, with the generous proceeds of Roots Farm Christmas Market adding a further £1500 to the pot. You can read more about the study at www.dmu.ac.uk and should you be interested in raising funds please contact joel.munson@dmu.ac.uk

I first developed my interest in diabetes as a practice nurse, running a specialist clinic within a GP surgery. It’s amazing what a huge difference lifestyle changes and the right medication can do for diabetic patients. I wanted to learn as much as I could about the disease, so enrolled in an MSc course in diabetes at the University of Leicester.

Never one to shy away from a challenge, I recently qualified as a Nurse Practitioner, which enables me to treat certain medical conditions without the direct supervision of a doctor. I love my new role as it’s so varied, but I also get involved with a lot of women’s health issues. I knew my midwifery knowledge wouldn’t go to waste!

Best Fashion Brand White Stuff

Last Holiday Destination

Cruise to Bermuda

Best West End Musical

Mamma Mia - I love Abba!

Relaxing Summer Activity

Cycling slowly around Rutland Water with a pit-stop at a pub or two

Favourite Actress Keira Knightley

Would you like to find out more about adoption or fostering?

Here’s when, where and how!

EARLY EVENING EVENTS: Tuesday 22 July Wednesday 27 August Thursday 18 September Drop in anytime between 5pm and 7pm (no need to book) to St Martins House (next door to the cathedral), 7 Peacock Lane, Leicester, LE1 5PZ. Come along and meet our friendly advisors as well as experienced adopters and foster carers.

Or if you prefer, you can just ring us for a chat during the day Monday to Friday.

URBAN FOX JULY 2014 63

ANDREW GRANGER & CO

When it’s time to sell your home, we make it easy With high profile offices in Leicester, Market Harborough and Loughborough as well as Mayfair, London, we reach the right kind of buyers across Leicestershire and beyond.

Our team of qualified professionals are skilled at presenting properties of all kinds for sale.

Most of all, you can rely on us for genuinely personal service to help you every step of the way, which is why buyers and sellers come back to us again and again.

Chartered Surveyors, Property Management, Planning & Professional Services Andrew Granger & Co. Attenborough House, 10-12 Rutland Street, Leicester LE1 1RD

Call 0116 242 9922 www.andrewgranger.co.uk