Dluxe Leicestershire & Rutland Issue 17

LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND

4th anniversary

edi tion

INSIDE: SUMMER DIARY PAUL HOLLYWOOD JAGUAR’S F TYPE BRING THE OUTSIDE IN YOUR COMPLIMENTARY COPY

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CONTENTS. 06 WISH LIST

What’s on the top of our shopping lists and ringed in our diaries this season.

16 SPOTLIGHT

Food Glorious Food. The rise of the TV cooking talent show has been immense; we talk to judges from the two biggest shows ; Masterchef and The Great British Bake Off.

18 HOME

We’ve gone inside out this issue with a little bit of upcycling along the way.

30 FOR HER

It’s time to dress for summer; garden parties, ladies days and long days on the beach; we’ve got you covered.

36 FOR HIM

Desert island grooming alongside summer suits and how to keep it slick by the pool.

40 MOTORS

We take the gorgeous new Jaguar F-TYPE for a spin.

46 TRAVEL

Vintage retreats in the Isle of Wright.

48 DINING

A recipe from John Whaite, a review of The White Peacock and a celebration at The Belmont Hotel.

52 DIARY

With a special look at Leicestershire’s leading Ladies Days as well as who wore what where and what should be in your diaries this summer.

30

48

50

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48 SIGN UP TO THE DLUXE MAILING LIST TO BE THE FIRST TO RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE NEWS, COMPETITIONS, OFFERS AND THE LATEST ON WHAT IS HAPPENING AT DLUXE HQ. www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

info@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk / www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk @dluxemag

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GROUP EDITOR IN CHIEF Jonathan Fraser Jon@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk ASSOCIATE EDITOR Matt Blackwell Matt@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk MARKETING Caroline Spence Caroline@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk ADVERTISING SALES Lilith Hunt-Sheppard Lilith@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk

HEAD OF FLUFFINESS Teddy Teddy@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk GENERAL DOGSBODY Rupert Rupert@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk

ISSUE 17

SUMMER 2014 dluxe LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND

LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND

4th

anniversary

edi tion

A

Letter Editor SUMMER ‘14

MANAGING DIRECTOR Kevin Urquhart Kevin@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk

from the

When it arrives that is… At the time of writing we’ve just experienced a typical bank holiday of rain, rain and more rain. So much so in fact that that little bit of flashing by the chimney (that I never got round to fixing after March’s winds) decided to share the downpour with my overly insulated attic resulting in a guest room covered in dusty ceiling, sopping insulation and rain.

After much swearing, a trip up a ladder with some magic mastic and an afternoon of clearing up it was quite clear that rain really does stop play. To add to our lack of good cheer it was then that the European Parliament Election results started to pour in…

No matter what your political stand point might be – and we’re certainly not here to try and alter that- the fact that UKIP achieved such success is shocking, not because they did it but because the other political parties seemed arrogant enough to think that they couldn’t. Like my leaky flashing, ignore a problem and when the heavens open you are sure to have a problem on your hands and it is fair to say the UK political system does indeed have a problem.

So will this be a Summer of Discontent? Time will tell but in the meantime we hope you find some form of escape in the pages of our summer edition. We seem to have done nothing but chat this issue; inside you’ll find interviews with the likes of Brian Conley who’s coming to Curve in Barnum this autumn; fantastic foodies Greg Wallace and Paul Hollywood on page 16 whilst former Great British Bake Off winner, John Whaite, has a special Mojito cake recipe that’s sure to hit the spot on page 48.

In our home section we focus on bringing the outside in and upcycling whilst Alan Titchmarsh talks to us about balancing his two great loves – gardening and writing.

We’ve also got the inside track on this summer’s key Ladies Day events, as well as a look at how to dress to impress for the summer.

So no matter if it rains, escape the puddles with a leaf through our pages – just don’t put off checking the roof…

SUMMER 2014 ISSUE 17

Until autumn,

INSIDE:

Jonathan Fraser Group Editor In Chief

SUMMER DIARY PAUL HOLLYWOOD JAGUAR’S F TYPE COMPLIMENTARY

BRING THE OUTSIDE IN YOUR COMPLIMENTARY COPY

WWW.DLUXE-MAGAZINE.CO.UK

COVER IMAGE COURTESY OF: MINT VELVET

FOR EDITORIAL AND ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES CONTACT: DLUXE LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND 59 FRIAR LANE, LEICESTER, LE1 5RB TEL: 0116 262 0728

info@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk / www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk @dluxemag

/dluxemagazine

Disclaimer: Copyright 69 & dluxe LEICESTERSHIRE. No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means - electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording or otherwise without the prior permission of the publishers. Whilst every attempt has been made to ensure accuracy in compiling this publication, the Publisher cannot accept responsibility for any inaccuracies, omissions, breach of copyright or otherwise since compilation. The Publisher cannot be held responsible for any material submitted to the publication, not excluding advertisements. The views expressed within this title are not necessarily the views of the Publisher. Acceptance of advertisements does not imply recommendation by the Publisher. © 69 Magazine Ltd 2014

www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

Let our specialist conveyancing experts put your mind at rest Email: legal@johnsonastills.com www.johnsonastills.com

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When property matters, call in a specialist Whether you’re buying or selling a home or leasing commercial premises, your Emery Johnson Astills conveyancing solicitor can ensure a sound transaction and help you avoid a long term liability.

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THE

belmont HOTEL

Celebrate 80 years of fabulous food at The Belmont Hotel!

Delicious dining, scrumptious Sunday lunches, carefree cocktails, amazing afternoon teas - there’s something for everyone at our lovely independent hotel.

0116 254 4773

events@belmonthotel.co.uk www.belmonthotel.co.uk

Pop in for a cappuccino or celebrate your special occasion with a private dinner, each come with a warm welcome!

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WISHLIST Bring on Barnum!

The musical based on the irrepressible imagination and dreams of Phineas T Barnum, America’s Greatest Showman, Barnum starts its national tour at Curve this Autumn and is set to be ‘The Greatest Show on Earth’!

Dluxe LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND caught up BRIAN CONLEY, one of the UK’s most versatile actors and performers ahead of him taking on role of this legendary entertainer.

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Lights, sound, colour- it’s a wonderful spectacular. Of course it will be because the great Cameron Mackintosh is putting it on and I’m just delighted to be a part of it. Barnum was such a showman, in a way he’s the first person that introduced things like the bearded lady, the strong man and all these sort of shows. He was very much a part of that, and of course Barnum and Bailey went on to take over the world. It is such a great show with fabulous songs and lots of humour.

RETRO RADIO Music comes into its own in the summer.

Whether it’s a garden gathering or a bank holiday BBQ, the musical accompaniment is fundamentally important. The sleek Bardot DAB and FM radio from View Quest harks back to a by-gone world with a stylish retro handbag design era that has put it straight to the top of our wishlist.

Not only does it offer great sound quality but if you’re feeling generous you can let your guests choose the tunes thanks to the Bardot’s Bluetooth functionality and the accompanying View Quest app.

Is that what drew you to the role?

It’s something I’ve always wanted to do ever since I saw Michael Crawford play Barnum as it’s just a huge spectacular. Barnum spends a lot of time engaging with the audience, involving them and that’s very much what I’m all about. I’m also a big fan of the circus so I was very much drawn to the role.

The Bardot is available at Selfridges and online with Apple UK priced at £149.99

You say Barnum is a showman, you’re a showman yourself, have you had to learn any new skills for the role?

Oh without a doubt! Since Christmas I’ve been practising tight rope walking, juggling and fire eating so just a few things that he does!

You know he very much does it all!

Barnum kicks off here in Leicester in September, have you ever been to the city before?

Oh yes I love Leicester!! I think the Curve is such a great theatre and I’m very pleased that the tour’s premier will be there. I am very excited for us and I know a lot of work is going to go into this, and lots already has, so it is going to be a real spectacular!

Barnum runs at Curve from the 5th to the 13th September.

To book your tickets visit www.curveonline.co.uk or call 0116 242 3595

FUNKY FLORALS It seems Heston Blumenthal is not content to restrict his unorthodox methods to the kitchen, as revealed with the launch of his signature range of glasses that fuse artisanal techniques with hand-sourced raw materials. Liquid nitrogen is used to freeze and shatter the flowers and plants that go into the frames, giving you a bespoke product that reflects Heston’s creative nature and takes inspiration from the purest pigments of nature. Different.

Prices start at £209 including lenses.

See more at www.visionexpress.com

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What can audiences expect from a show about America’s greatest showman?

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TAKE THE URBAN CITY AND BIKRAM BIKINI CHALLENGE! The biggest question that faces us all as we stride into summer, snorkel and lilo in hand, is are we ready to bare all in a bikini or board shorts? Urban City and Bikram Yoga in Leicester’s Friar Lane are looking to give everyone a little more confidence when it comes to flashing the flesh by initiating the bikini challenge and are offering 6 weeks of unlimited yoga for just £60. That’s only £10 a week!

This exclusive pass will open up world of yoga, allowing you to try either Bikram or any of the 12 other types of yoga classes that run weekly in Urban City Yoga.

Worried about the wobbles? Get yourself in the studio and do something about it in time to get a tan! Just remember to mention where you saw it…

EXCLUSIVE DLUXE OFFER: 6 Weeks of Unlimited Yoga for £60!

Urban City and Bikram Yoga is @ 59 Friar Lane, Leicester, LE1 5RB. Tel: 0116 261 9262 www.bikramyogaleicester.co.uk

Happy Birthday John Lewis

CAT-NAV! Let your furry loved ones roam as freely as God intended with the G-Paws Pet GPS. The ultra lightweight weatherproof tracker easily attaches to any collar, can be used for eight hours continuously and automatically powers down after five minutes of no movement. The G-Paws website has been set up as a social networking platform where you can create a profile for your pet and upload their journeys!

G-Paws Pet GPS £49.95 from Red5 www.red5.co.uk

The year is 1864 and humble draper’s shop John Lewis opens its doors for the first time. 150 years later and the £4 billion international, award-winning business has become one of the landmarks of Leicester.

To celebrate this amazing anniversary, the Leicester store will be hosting a number of activities and charity initiatives throughout the summer in partnership with Barnardo’s.

Collaborating with some of Britain’s most loved brands and designers, John Lewis Leicester will also be offering in store a carefully edited assortment of product that has been produced exclusively for the anniversary.

In a series of firsts, the fashion department sees the launch of Orla Kiely’s first menswear range, exclusive to John Lewis. The electrical department has teamed up with the iconic Henry Hoover brand to offer John Lewis customers the opportunity to buy a ‘John’ or a ‘Lewis’ Hoover, and in its home department the retailer’s own design studio pays homage to the brand’s design history by taking key heritage prints from the archives and using them on new, modern products. We can’t wait to start shopping! www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

THIS FEELING,

FROM £599 A MONTH.*

JAGUAR F-TYPE COUPÉ.

Even the price of the F-TYPE Coupé has the power to raise your heartbeat. Now imagine how you’ll feel experiencing these class leading features as standard every single day…

• A choice of 340PS and 380PS V6 and 550PS V8 engines, all featuring a twin vortex supercharger for instantaneous performance.

• 8" touchscreen navigation system with route guidance • Xenon headlamps with signature lights • Quickshift 8-speed automatic transmission with gear shift paddles Contact us today to book your test drive.

STURGESS JAGUAR 445 NARBOROUGH ROAD, LEICESTER LE3 2RE WWW.STURGESS.LEICESTER.JAGUAR.CO.UK 0116 416 1437

*PLUS DEPOSIT AND FINAL PAYMENT. REPRESENTATIVE EXAMPLE On the Road Price Customer Deposit Total Amount of Credit

£51,250 £11,565 £39,685

Credit Facility Fee (included in final payment) £285 Purchase Fee (included in final payment) 36 Monthly Payments Final Payment

£25,920

Total Amount Payable

£59,049

Duration of Agreement (Months)

HOW ALIVE ARE YOU?

Representative 7.9% APR available on new Jaguar F-TYPE Coupé registered between 1st April and 30th June 2014 at participating dealers only. We may receive commission or other benefits for introducing you to Jaguar Financial Services. With Jaguar Privilege Personal Contract Purchase you have the option at the end of the agreement to: (1) subject to the vehicle being in good condition, return the vehicle and not pay the Final Payment (if the vehicle has exceeded the allowed mileage a charge for excess mileage will apply – in this example 14p per mile for any excess mileage up to 4,999 miles and 28p per mile for any excess mileage exceeding 4,999 miles). (2) pay the Final Payment to own the vehicle or (3) part exchange the vehicle subject to settlement of your existing finance agreement; new finance agreements are subject to status. Representative example is based upon an annual mileage of 10,000 miles.

Finance is subject to status and only available to applicants aged 18 and over resident in Mainland UK and N.Ireland. Indemnities may be required. This finance offer is available from Black Horse Limited trading as Jaguar Financial Services, St William House, Tresillian Terrace, Cardiff, CF10 5BH.

£10 £599

37

Representative APR

7.9% APR

Interest Rate (Fixed)

7.41%

Official fuel economy figures for the Jaguar F-TYPE range in mpg (l/100km): (l/100km): Urban 17.8-22.8 (15.9-12.4); Extra Urban 34.0-42.2 (8.3-6.7); Combined 25.5-32.1 (11.1-8.8). CO2 Emissions 259-205 g/km. The figures provided are as a result of official manufacturer’s tests in accordance with EU legislation. A vehicle’s actual fuel consumption may differ from that achieved in such tests and these figures are for comparative purposes only.

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Made For Men Even for the most metrosexual of us, the prospect of a spa day can be a little challenging; the idea of a little manly me time is definitely appealing but the world of facials, manicures and balancing your chi is not everyone’s cup of chai.

Which is why we are particularly taken with Eden Hall and their new dedicated Made For Men spa experience. Ease away tension and soothe aching back muscles with a 40 minute massage focused on back, shoulders, neck and scalp that owes much more to a professional sportsman treatment than lazy pamper day experience.

What’s more, the Nottinghamshire day spa, located in a converted Victorian Manor House and Estate, offers guest use of a fully equipped gymnasium and exercise classes as well as saltwater vitality pool, water therapies and heated rooms including an intense heated sauna with obligatory ice cold bucket shower afterwards – are you man enough?

Also included in your day is a top notch three course lunch, complimentary robes and towels and all for just £115. You even get to kick back and relax with an ice cold Peroni at the end of it all, what’s not manly about all that?

Eden Hall Say Spa is at Elston Village, Nr Newark.

Tel 01636 525555 www.edenspa.co.uk

FEMI CELEBRATES SALON WIN Tally Boots Aimed at the festival goers and those wanting a welly with a little more style, Tally Boots have taken the original cowboy boot shape and added colourful and vibrant designs to make sure the range of boots are on the fast track to becoming the classic festival welly. Made from high quality rubber , cut close to the leg for a flattering look, the boots feature a two inch rubber heel that gives a fantastic little bounce to your walk. Easy to dress up or down with a well cut jean, a faded floral mini or vintage denim, they are the perfect way to ensure rain doesn’t stop play this festival season and are a snip at just £32 a pair!

Your

WIN chance

dluxe-m

agazine

to

.co.uk

Available from www.taloloboots.com

We’ve got 3 pairs of each style to give away.

For your chance to win , visit www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

Many congratulations to Femi Health & Beauty - the region’s no.1 beauty salon has been awarded The UK Salon of the Year Award by top brand Décleor beating over 900 other salons nationwide.

The team, headed by Femida Latif, were awarded the coveted trophy at Gordon Ramsay’s restaurant Maze, in London in May. The award is the top accolade given by the beauty brand to salons across the country.

Femi said “This is an amazing testament to all of the team who work so hard during the year to bring the best possible service to our clients. A big thank you to all our clients, friends and colleagues who have helped make this award a reality.”

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

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dluxe wishlist

Forward thinking advice...

COUCH POTATO POOCH Scruffs have released a luxurious Regent faux sofa for dogs; perfect for those who spend more time pampering their pooch than they do their other half! Prices start at ÂŁ119.99 and the sofas are available in two sizes from www.petslovescruffs.com

We can offer far more than just traditional accounting services. Our proactive, forward thinking advice will identify strategies to help your business to achieve greater profitability and to help you enjoy greater personal wealth.

Contact one of our offices to find out more...

Leicester - 0116 254 9262 Loughborough - 01509 263 500

www.newbycastleman.co.uk

Now Open on Sundays!

THE WHITE PEACOCK

Book your table now!

NEW PARENTS SLEEP EASY D-link is offering new parents a huge piece of mind with the launch of their new EyeOn Baby Camera. This high definition baby monitor bristles with features including wireless connectivity, temperature and sound sensors, night vision and remote access; allowing you to keep an eye on the newest addition to the family from anywhere at anytime. The EyeOn Baby Camera also comes with built in lullabies, high definition two-way audio and can be accessed via your smartphone.

The EyeOn Baby Camera costs ÂŁ109.95 and is available at John Lewis

14-16 King Street, Leicester, LE1 6RJ 0116 254 7663 For reservations, information and general enquiries email enquiries@the-white-peacock.co.uk

www.the-white-peacock.co.uk

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SMOKED GOODNESS After opening initially as a pop-up restaurant, The Smokehouse is set to become a permanent fixture above the O Bar in Braunstone Gate. With dishes such as Fourteen-hour Pulled Pork, the restaurant brings the mouth-watering concept of Southern-American inspired smoked food to Leicester, all cooked on an authentic grill imported from the States.

Find them on Facebook for more information

Stuck for a Father’s Day idea? Not anymore. Put him in a 17 and a half ton tank and just watch the smile creep across his face as he is transformed into a vital link in an elite tank crew, taught how to drive the tank and operate the paintball cannon fitted to the turret. Amourgeddon is located at Southfields Farm, Husbands Bosworth and offers full-scale Tank Paintball battles for all, as well as military vehicle driving, hovercraft experiences, quad safaris and whole host of other things! Throw in a topnotch military museum and we think we’ve uncovered one of Leicestershire’s sparkliest hidden gems.

To see the full range of activities on offer go to www.armourgeddon.co.uk

Tank It GADGET GARDEN The Smart Herb Garden is perfect for those who fancy themselves as green fingered but aren’t so keen on getting dirt under the nails. This nifty little gadget eliminates the guesswork by using smart technology to measure all the necessary parameters and then dose an exact amount of water, fertilizer and air according to the plant’s specific needs. The Smart Herb Garden comes with cartridges for basil, thyme and lemon balm and refill cartridges will be available for chili pepper, mini tomato, peppermint, rosemary, sage, sugar leaf and lavender. Look out for various kinds of lettuce and even strawberries in the future!

The Click & Grow Smart Herb Garden is available for £99.99 from www.2tech.co.uk

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What a year! It’s hard to believe that 12 months ago salon owner and stylist Emma Brown was celebrating the celebrity launch. Since then, with fiancé Dennis and French Bulldog Pierre by her side, Emma has established herself as one of the Midlands’ leading hair salons bringing a London experience to Leicester in terms of style, technique and customer service. “We really do want people to walk out of the salon not only feeling and looking a million dollars, but to be styled and equipped to stay looking fabulous for up to six weeks. ‘Sustainable Style’ is our aim” says Emma as she talks to us at her Clarendon Park salon.

Following an illustrious career managing one of the city’s leading salons, Emma returned to her roots in Clarendon Park to use the experience she’s gained to create a salon built on three key principles; 1. The Elite Experience: to bring a sense of affordable luxury and London salon experience to the Midlands in terms of style, technique and customer service, whilst retaining a regional price.

2. Sustainable Style: providing in-depth personal consultations that address the hair and the lifestyle needs of each client, so they leave with the best, and most appropriate style, for them to maintain on a long term basis.

3. Top Training: all members of Emma’s staff are highly trained in the latest cutting and colouring techniques and strive to be at the very pinnacle of their profession.

FREE MICROCHIPPING FOR DOGS Best Friends Vets in Leicester, are among hundreds of Vets proudly participating in the Dogs Trust’s Microchipping Through Vets Scheme and will be offering free microchipping, to all dogs for the next 12 months.

Microchipping of dogs is set to become compulsory in England from April 2016 and implantation takes just a few moments, using a special type of syringe to place the microchip (smaller than a grain of rice) under the loose skin of a dog’s neck.

Not only does the offer represent a great opportunity to get the procedure done for free, but it also greatly increases the likelihood of being reunited with your pet pooch should they go missing. Local Authorities picked up 111,986 stray and abandoned dogs across the UK last year, with only 40% reunited with their owners. If microchipped Vets and local authorities can quickly identify a pet’s owner and return them home with as little stress to the animal as possible.

To make a dog microchipping appointment, call Best Friends Vets on 0116 251 7677. Best Friends Vets is @ 29 Glenfield Road East, Leicester, LE3 5QW

In creating the ’Elite Experience’ the style of the salon was key and this is where fiancé Dennis really came into his own, transforming a ramshackle derelict shop into a stylish salon that has its own sense of ‘sustainable style.’ The look of the salon is both clean and welcoming in equal parts and with a relaxed atmosphere that encourages conversation, Emma’s client list has grown over the year to read like a who’s who of the city.

The creation of a sustainable style is definitely a major factor in the salon’s first year of success “we work hard to ensure people are equipped to maintain their style and ensure that both cut and colour grow out in the right way. There’s nothing worse than a week after a haircut you start spotting problems with the shape or how the colours blending; it’s frustrating and so disappointing!” says Emma.

Emma’s approach to hair is proving so popular that she’s had to accelerate her business plan and is set to bring forward an extension of the salon that will see it double in size. “We’re working at full capacity at the moment – with a waiting list – so I can’t wait for more space and to see what the future has to offer” she says with a boundless enthusiasm, which prompts a reminder not cut any corners in the rush. “Oh no,” says Emma, “we don’t do that here. We just cut hair, and we do it well.”

Emma Brown Hair is at 140 Clarendon Park Road, Leicester. LE2 3AE. Tel 0116 270 4374 www.emmabrownhair.co.uk

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CITY SALON CELEBRATES FIRST BIRTHDAY WITH EXCITING EXPANSION

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CELEBRITIES DON SHADES FOR LOROS Celebrities visiting Leicester have been getting all soulful in aid of the city’s hospice charity LOROS. Soul Relief, a new month long campaign to raise funds for LOROS, is being launched in the city with support from stars such as comedian Richard Blackwood and Ronnie Herel formerly of BBC 1Xtra. The campaign will include numerous soul themed events featuring stars such as Jaki Graham and will culminate in a special fundraising night on 28 June at Bowstrings Bar on Braunstone Gate. Soul Relief will be encouraging people from all over the city to take ‘selfies’ wearing their branded sunglasses, which will be uploaded to the Facebook and Twitter to raise awareness of the campaign.

For more information, visit Soul Relief on Facebook or follow @soulreliefuk on Twitter

SAFETY IN THE SUN A new bracelet and its companion app are offering women everywhere a sense of serenity in the sun by measuring exposure to UV rays. Netatmo’s June bracelet tracks UV intensity in realtime and can calculate your suggested maximum daily exposure depending on your skin type. The app features a summary of time spent in the sun, allowing the user to see when the UV rays’ impact on the skin was at its most intense and can then advise how best to protect skin on a daily basis. Not only is it an incredibly useful little gadget in avoiding sunburn and long-term skin damage, but also June’s elegant design makes it a stylish addition to any outfit, worn either as a bracelet or a brooch.

June is expected to cost in the region of £60 when it launches in the UK. Go to www.netatmo.com for further information

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College Court Conference Centre and Hotel The venue that works for you!

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SPOTLIGHT The rise of the TV chef has seen us all salivating into our remote controls. Add in a dose of competitive spirit and reality TV drama and you’ve got us hooked.

Dluxe LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND catches up with two stars of the genre; Masterchef’s Greg Wallace, Great British Bake Off judge and thinking woman’s crumpet Paul Hollywood.

The baking profession may be of long and humble tradition, but Paul Hollywood, with his sharp blue eyes, distinguished silver hair and glamorous surname, was always destined for a rise to stardom. After making his name on the remarkably popular BBC show The Great British Bake Off, the 47 year-old is now gearing up to take his talents on the road as part of a UK tour.

It’s been quite a journey for the Merseyside lad, from the smaller stage of the family bakery to selling out concert venues across the country with a hands-on baking gig.

Prior to facing crowds of adoring fans, how does he feel about the upcoming tour?

“I really enjoyed doing demonstrations for the BBC Good Food show, so I’m not unfamiliar with the format. This was my chance to do something on my own though, and it’s like a kind of rock ‘n’ roll tour!

“The whole idea of the tour is to pass on my knowledge, what I’ve learnt over the years to people who are struggling or have problems with their baking.”

Hollywood’s desire to pass on the knowledge perhaps hankers back to his own baking beginnings. His knack with a rolling pin comes from a flour-filled childhood. “Mum looked after the pastry side, the apple pies, the biscuits,” he tells us. “My dad looked after the yeast side. So with the two of them as my parents I became a hybrid.”

So what kind of things will our fusion baker be performing on stage?

“The premise is for me to show off the recipes of my life – back from when I was a kid, right through my professional career and from starting on television to dishes that I cook now. And at the end of each show, four people will come up on stage and I’ll set them a baking challenge to go and do their best with in a set amount of time. The winner will be picked by the audience.

There will also be a roving mic so members of the audience can throw questions at me.”

Although the professional chef was brought up around the craft, and cites good friend Tom Kerridge as an inspiration, not to mention Michel Roux Junior who he describes as “quite frankly, a God,” the route to the very top of his profession was perhaps a lonely one. A younger Hollywood had to look to old cookbooks rather than motivating head chefs to help him break the mould.

“My family have been my inspiration throughout my whole career. But one of my problems was that when I moved into these big flash restaurants to go and work there I was head of the tree; I was the head baker and there was no one higher than me who I could ask for advice.”

In baking, it seems that sometimes looking backwards can be the way forward.

“So I was reading the old bakery books, and

We catch up with the baker as he prepares to perfect the recipe for his one-man show, the ‘Get Your Bake On Tour’.

getting inspiration from what was going on in baking a hundred years ago, or 200 years ago. That’s where I’d get my inspiration. I couldn’t get it from other bakers because they are almost doing the same thing.”

The “George Clooney of baking” as Johnathan Ross described him, has been kneading dough for around thirty years.

But when the last loaf is taken out the oven and the apron comes off, what is it that Hollywood likes to do to relax?

“I really enjoy walking the dog,” he smile.

“He’s a Labrador called Rufus – I named

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him after [comedian] Rufus Hound, who’s a friend of mine. That’s my relaxation – walking Rufus or going out for a ride on my motorbike – it’s a sports bike though, I hate Harleys.”

What about hanging out with Mary Berry?

Do the pair get on as well off screen as they do on it?

“Working with her is such a laugh. I do get the giggles a lot. Mary is lovely. I see a lot of her outside work, and am very fond of her and her whole family.”

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Image by Charlottle Knee

We quizzed the MasterChef host about his love of food, and what he gets up to when he’s not facing a dinner plate.

Gregg Wallace is best known for co-hosting the MasterChef and Celebrity MasterChef series on the BBC, alongside fellow foodie John Torode. The pair have worked up an appetite for pushing chefs to their absolute extremes over the years, and their highpressure challenges have produced equally spectacular and disastrous results.

Of course, Wallace’s no-nonsense, gregarious approach to judging in the kitchen has made him a bit of a fans’ favourite. There must have been plenty of great moments from the series. What have been the best memories?

“I think the aside from some fantastic dishes, what really stands out with MasterChef is the travelling we’ve been lucky enough to enjoy. We’ve been to some amazing places. Amongst my favourites I think are Thailand and India, where there is such a strong food culture and yet so different to our own.”

That said, the emergence of an incredibly rich, vibrant and varied culinary offering in Britain is something, undoubtedly, to be proud of. Does Gregg feel the diversity of food will continue to expand or have we reached a peak?

“We are very fortunate in this country to have such a broad range of food available

to us. In London, especially, it’s an incredible offering. I can only think of one comparable city, really, and that’s New York. We have such cultural diversity and that is expressed brilliantly in a huge number of eateries. What does surprise me, and it’s happened in the past five years or so, is that Asian food has become our takeaway or cheap lunch of choice. I think that fish and chips have gone and the noodles have taken over. I reckon that will continue and I think we will take on more and more influences, especially I think the healthier cuisines.”

Starting his life as a greengrocer, Wallace knows the ins and outs of healthy, fresh and seasonal produce. As we enter Spring, what are his tips for finding the best vegetables?

“We are now at one of the most exciting times of the year for fresh produce, which you can pick up at the old-fashioned greengrocers. The first of the broad beans, the start of the runner beans and spring peas are all coming through. There’s the first of the Cornish new potatoes too, and the Jersey new potatoes are just around the corner. And, of course, the ultimate in luxury vegetables, asparagus!”

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Aside from his love of vegetables, Wallace has another very well known food romance, perhaps even more deeply rooted.

“I do love puddings. Not desserts… desserts is a French word. In this country we have puddings, Sir.” With a huge grin across his face, he tells us, “I love them because they’re so unnecessary; they are purely an indulgence. They’re a present to ourselves and that why I love them. And when Britain was in the culinary wilderness of cuisine with the rest of Europe laughing at us, we were still world leaders in the big, thick, sticky sweet puddings. We do it very well.”

Outside of talking about, and sampling, plenty of amazing food, how does escape the culinary world?

“MasterChef takes up a lot of my life, but when I’m not doing that my favourite pastime, funnily enough, is fitness and gym work.

I’m in the gym six days a week, sometimes twice a day. People don’t realise that I’m also a qualified rugby coach and I absolutely love my rugby. Another thing people don’t realise about me is I’m a very keen amateur historian, so my house is stacked full of reference books.

All those things, and I love my children – I’m a single parent and I love spending time with them. It keeps me busy, and busy is good!”

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HOME This summer the focus is on bringing the outdoors indoors and making it great. From wallpapers and textiles to statement furniture and accessory pieces it’s good to go outdoors.

Wallpaper from the Exposed Collection: From ÂŁ27.95 per roll www.galeriewallcoverings.com

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Bring the outdoors in From floral fabrics to modern terrariums, bring a little of the outside back in with you this summer.

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1. English garden collection candles £16 each thewhitecompany 2. Embroidered insect cushion £25 Marks and Spencer 3. floral distressed cabinet £199.99 homesense 4. indoor allotment £24.99 thegiftoasis 5. BHS Robyn Table Lamp now £42.00 6. Neutral wood table £325 nakeninteriors 7. carolyn donnelly eclectic, berry lotus tealight holder £4 dunnesstores 8. large floral jug £19.50 Marks & Spencer 9. child’s willowarm chair marquisanddawe £89

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DO IT YOURSELF AND DO IT RIGHT! If, like us, you have a list of little jobs to do around the home, the improved climate and lighter nights of summer seem like the perfect time to engage in a bit of DIY. Before you get the hammer and drill out here’s our top tips to ensure you it do it right when you do it yourself.

PLAN!

SET A BUDGET!

KNOW YOUR LIMITS!

It’s incredibly easy for an ill managed project’s costs to spiral out of control so during your planning phase make sure you keep control of your costs. Try and break your costs down to make the most of your money – painting rather than wallpapering could mean you don’t have to compromise on some of the finishing touches for example or even allow you to introduce a whole new feature like some funky lighting. Upcycling some key pieces rather than replacing them is a creative way of keeping a budget in check without compromising on the wow factor.

The point of DIY is to save some money so know your limits rather than incurring extra costs by employing someone to put right your mistakes. One way to keep a hold on your budget, maintain a hand in the project and still get a great result is to take care of the preparation yourself. From stripping wallpaper, filling, sanding or even removing old tiles and flooring; all of these things can be done before a skilled tradesman is needed to do a professional job.

All too often the temptation is to move forward full steam ahead and get stuck straight into the knitty gritty. However, the quickest way to make mistakes is to not plan ahead. Make a list of what you want to achieve and what you need in order to do that – it’ll save you frequent annoying visits to the DIY superstore and save you money.

It’s also a great progress checker allowing you to tick stages of the job off as you move forward which in turn improves your own motivation meaning you’re more likely to finish the job rather than abandon it!

FINISH WHAT YOU’VE STARTED! There’s nothing more depressing than tripping over unfinished jobs around the house; they always make you feel like a failure and make you feel guilty for putting your feet up at the end of a long day.

Therefore always finish one project before starting with on another. If you’ve got a few things to get through, visit each room of the house and write a list of what needs to be done. Then tackle each room at a time and keep ticking the jobs of the list.

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KITCHENS | BATHROOMS | CONSTRUCTION SUPPLY ONLY OR FULL PROJECT-MANAGEMENT

BEAUTIFULLY DESIGNED AND CRAFTED KITCHENS FROM CONCEPT TO COMPLETION

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Make the most of the good weather by keeping your outdoor space comfy!

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1. summer at home picnic image by marksandspencer. wicker wine bag £15.60 2. fire pit £279 Marks & Spencer 3. geo wire table £75 oliverbonas 4. La Hacienda small clay barbecue chimenea £69 Sainsburys Home 5. woven glass jug £4.99 homesense 6. Gazebo Nordina finish £699, Marks & Spencer 7. homesense outside lounge 8. memory lane paper tablewear prices from £1.25 Sainsburys Home

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WE’RE RECRUITING NEW SALES PROFESSIONALS Competitive salary and great benefits available for the right candidate with the best pedigree.

EMAIL YOUR CV TO JON@SIXTYNINE-LTD.CO.UK www.69-degrees.co.uk

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TOP DOG?

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Breathe new life into old things with Farrow & Ball

Revive your chairs, tables and cupboards with colour, or upcycle bargain finds from charity shops and flea markets with a choice of sophisticated shades from Farrow & Ball and their hard wearing range of Eggshell and Full Gloss paints. .

Paint a chair in fresh St Giles Blue to add colour, or paint drawers in grey tones graduating from Wevet right through to Mole’s Breath for subtle sophistication. Whether you want to turn a tired piece of furniture into a piece of art, or just refresh items with a new colour, both the Estate Eggshell and Full Gloss paints are available in all 132

colours in the Farrow & Ball palette allowing you to be creative with colour.

For a matt finish use Estate Eggshell, a robust and durable finish that is easily wiped clean. Alternatively, high-shine Full Gloss is an extremely versatile and robust finish that will add instant glamour.

Farrow & Ball Estate Eggshell and Full Gloss paints are available from Homebase, Leicester as well as online at www.farrow-ball.com

SMART BLINDS Gadgets lovers will adore the new range of Smart Blinds QMotion that can be operated remotely via a smart phone or tablet. With the ability to control blinds in multiple rooms from one central point and with no wiring, the blinds not only represent the latest in luxury living but also quite a practical solution for those with mobility issues or teenagers who need a more subtle way to raise them out of bed in the morning.

Available in over 400 fabrics and colours including blackout options, you can even choose to have a favourite photo or image printed on to a fabric to add a personal touch to an interior scheme. Fabrics can also be easily replaced to suit new décor or for cleaning purposes.

Prices start from £674.00 including fabric, to find out more visit www.qmotionshades.co.uk

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INVEST IN THE BEST

Gerri Moore, Director of Hunters Narborough and Stoneygate provides her insights on Leicester’s housing market, highlighting the best places to invest.

With Nationwide naming Leicester as the fourth most likely city in the country for house price growth at the beginning of 2014*, Gerri Moore, Director of Hunters Narborough and Stoneygate, takes a closer look at the city’s housing market and whether this has been reflected in the first half of the year.

and vibrant atmosphere with its designer shops and chic restaurants and bars. The area is slightly more expensive than Narborough, but worth the extra investment. The village is dotted with beautiful period properties, such as this four bedroom detached home on Sandown Road, on the market for £415,000.” (pictured above)

“2014 has been an excellent year for the housing market in Leicester and it would be safe to say Nationwide’s predictions were correct.

The city’s property market has seen a steady rise in prices since 2009, however, at the beginning of this year we saw a definite shift, causing house prices to rise between 7-9%. This shift can be largely attributed to a larger range of properties being released onto the market than ever before. Whilst many people had put moving home on hold for the past five or six years due to the economy, vendor’s confidence appears to have now been restored and the market has been replenished with properties that are suitable for a range of buyers.

“Unsurprisingly, we have seen investors flood the market due to low interest rates and high yields as the rental market stays strong.

Leicester’s population is fairly transient as there are a number of large organisations who employ huge amounts of graduates who seek out rental accommodation in the city.

“Properties within the city centre will fetch yields between 5-6%, however if you look a little further afield, the area of Narborough is a perfect honeypot for investment. The large village in South Leicester is situated near several major transport corridors and benefits from Narborough railway station, making it the ideal location for those looking for an easy commute to London or Birmingham. Investors frequently snap up three bedroom semi-detached homes here which can be found at £155,000, or two bedroom terrace houses which start at around £135,000. We are currently selling a fabulous three bedroom semi-detached home in Narborough on the market for £150,000.

The perfect investment property? £150,000 Narborough.

Hunters opened its first office in York in April 1992. Today Hunters is the UK’s largest and fastest growing, estate agency network with over 100 branches around the country. Divisions include sales, lettings, auctions, survey and franchising. Hunters has won over 30 awards; achieved Investor in People certification for a decade; twice been voted Best UK Estate Agent and featured in the Sunday Times Best 100 company. Visit www.huntersnet.co.uk for more information or contact the Stoneygate branch at:

Hunters Stoneygate, Allandale Road, Stoneygate, Leicester.

LE2 2DA Tel. 0116 272 7150 www.huntersnet.co.uk *Nationwide House Price Index Q4 2013

“The cosmopolitan Stoneygate is another good choice for investors.

The area boasts easy access into Leicester city centre and enjoys a busy www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

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dluxe special feature

HOT PRO

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Whether you’re looking to move or are just a bit nosey, dluxe LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND saves you the trouble of trawling the property market by bringing the county’s most luxurious homes together in one place.

Distinctive & Detached.

Welford Road, Leicester £575,000 A prominently positioned detached family home located in the fashionable city suburb of Knighton. The property has been sympathetically improved by the current owners retaining original features including replacement arched windows, original leaded stain glazed windows and internal doors. Spacious and versatile, the house is located on a superb mature wide corner plot offering excellent potential to extend, redevelop, or alternatively potential for commercial use, subject to necessary consent.

Knightsbridge Estate Agents, 72 Queens Rd, Leicester LE2 1T. Tel0116 274 5544

Victorian Villa, Stoughton Road, Leicester. £260,000 Immaculately presented and recently redecorated to a high standard, this gas centrally heated four bedroom Victorian villa offers an abundance of original features throughout. Just a short stroll from the shops and boutiques of Allandale Road and Francis Street, the generously proportioned rooms comprise a bay fronted living room, separate dining room and breakfast kitchen downstairs whilst upstairs can be found four bedrooms and a charming bathroom. Outside, steps drop down from both the dining room and the kitchen to an attractive garden made up of mature trees, shrubs and lawn.

Fothergill Wyatt, 26 Allandale Rd, Leicester LE2 2DA. Tel 0116 270 5900

Victorian Renovation, Forest Road, Loughborough. £399,950 This 7 bedroomed Victorian property is in need of renovation throughout and offers approximately 3500sq ft spread over 3 floors with additional cellarage and outbuildings. Crammed full of character and original features this once grand house features a striking hallway leading to four reception rooms, a kitchen and substantial cellars. Upstairs 3 bathrooms serve a total of 7 bedrooms across 2 floors. Throughout the house period features abound including original fireplaces, mouldings and sash windows. Outside a number of outbuildings make up the rear garden along with the potential for vehicle access, subject to consent. Undoubtedly not for the faint hearted, this amazing property offers huge scope and is an exciting project for lovers of Victoriana.

Moore & York, Devonshire Square, Town Centre, Loughborough LE11 3DT. Tel01509 214546

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OPERTIES 27

The Grange is a large and important eight bedroomed period country house, set in the heart of the delightful unspoilt village of Hoby. Dating from the mid-19th century, the house offers very generous well planned and laid out accommodation with potential to create both additional linked or independent residential accommodation. Within the rear courtyard there is an, original early two storey Coach House which again, subject to planning, could be further adapted for either further residential accommodation or potential home office use. The house has an imposing and striking presence to Main Street with the original cast iron gated carriage entrance to the side. There is also an adjoining paddock with separate enclosed tennis court.

Savills Nottingham. 9 Fletcher Gate, Nottingham, NG11QQ, Tel 0115 780 2108

6 bed Detached Cottage, Castle Donnington. £550,000 Perfectly placed for the M1 and nearby airport, this spacious, bright home offers the potential for further growth making it ideal for growing families, families who are planning to move in together or people who run their business from home. A winding driveway leads you through well stocked and private front gardens whilst the house itself is made up of an entrance hallway, spacious living room, dining room, family kitchen, utility room, generous study, two further sitting rooms /offices/ bedrooms/ playrooms, as well as four double bedrooms..

English Homes, Cumberland House, 35 Park Row, Nottingham. Tel 0115 780 2286

The Townhouse, New Walk, Leicester. £475,000 The perfect location for fans of city living, this Grade II FOUR BEDROOMED family period sits amidst the highly prestigious tree lined location conservation area of New Walk. Retaining a wealth of character and charm, the three storey accommodation features a lounge/dining room, breakfast kitchen, pantry and utility room. You’ll also find a cloakroom and cellar downstairs along with four bedrooms and four bathrooms spread across the remaining floors. A city centre location doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice outdoor space thanks to a garden at the front and a courtyard at the rear with double doors leading to single garage and shared drive, with electrically operated gates.

Andrew Granger & Co, Attenborough House, Rutland Street, Leicester. LE11RD Tel. 0116 443 2021 www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

dluxe home

The Grange, Hoby, Melton Mowbray £1,350,000

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GARDENING

BEWARE OF GREEN FINGERED THIEVES Everyone has their own rituals when they leave the house: turn the lights off, lock the doors, switch on the alarm, but how many of us pay the same attention to garden security? As the gardening bug begins to bite and barbeques become more than a pipedream, gardening crime also experiences a 50 per cent increase.

ALL HANDS ON DECK It’s not long now until schools kick out for summer, and why not utilise the extra pairs of hands and put them to good use?

This new Gruffalo range is perfect for encouraging little green fingers into the garden.

Top Tips: Lock any back or side gates or other entrances to the garden to limit access.

Pack away any garden tools or equipment out of sight.

Secure expensive plants with wire pegs dug into the ground around the root ball.

Use a security pen to mark valuable items, like garden furniture, ornaments, bicycles or trampolines, with your postcode.

Install security lighting.

Mend any broken fences or boundary gaps to deter opportunist thieves.

Consider defensive planting like prickly hedges or shrubs.

For more advice on keeping your garden, and home safe, visit www.thecrimepreventionwebsite.com www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

Kids Gruffalo Garden Tools and Bag Set £19.99 www.amazon.co.uk • Gruffalo Watering Can £10 www.amazon.co.uk

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Over the years, Alan Titchmarsh has become as commonplace on the British gardening scene as Miracle-Gro or the Chelsea Flower Show. At 65-years-old, the established horticulturalist has become synonymous with gardening, whilst also finding the time in between his television work to write fiction novels. We spoke to him about how he goes about sharing the workload between writing and gardening…

GARDEN GETAWAYS Whether you’re a budding botanist or a greenfingered god, there are two places that definitely need to be on this summer’s bucket list:

Hampton Court Gardens

Originally from Ilkley in West Yorkshire, Titchmarsh started his move South in the early ‘70’s to study in Hertfordshire, and then to the Royal Botanical Gardens in Richmond where he picked up his diploma. He is best known for his breakthrough on British television screens in the late nineties, hosting the successful Gardener’s World and Ground Force shows. However, Titchmarsh considers himself to be a writer first and foremost, and has continued the craft ever since he finished studying.

Taking Alan on a walk down memory lane, he describes how his interest in gardening began early on, and recalls spending time with his grandfather’s allotment at a very young age. “I’d built a greenhouse out of polythene and wood by the age of 10, and just loved gardening from being about eight. I always wanted to do it. I’ve got a picture of me in tiny baggy bloomers aged about 18 months being walked through my Granddad’s sweet peas…”

Sixty years on, the green-fingered veteran shows no signs of slowing down, proving that gardening truly is accessible at any age.

This 60-acre estate runs its beautiful grounds down to the River Thames, featuring wonderful formal gardens and species planted by the famous landscaper Capability Brown.

The Royal Botanic Gardens features 121 hectares of gardens, botanical glasshouses and a beautiful orchid sanctuary, making it the perfect destination for a summer stroll.

“If I could hope anything, I would hope that I’ve made gardening a little bit easier to understand, perhaps even made it more exciting. I’d like to think that had happened, but that’s for others to say rather than me. I just keep sharing my passion in an enthusiastic way, which I hope is infectious and easy to understand.”

The Yorkshireman has certainly been instrumental in bettering the nation’s relationship with their own back gardens. The great admiration of his shows is enough to prove it. Plans are afoot for Titchmarsh to continue his broadcasting, and, exhibiting his first garden at the sold-out Chelsea Flower Show for more than 30 years this month, black market tickets are reported to be fetching a hefty price.

“I’m filming a series at the moment at Buckingham Palace. I’m doing a two-part programme about the Queen’s garden there, which is exciting. There’s also a new Series of Love Your Garden coming this summer, and I’m doing a show called Britain’s Best Gardens too, where we’re going to try and find 30 of the UK’s best private domestic gardens.”

It seems clear through talking to him that Titchmarsh is very much a salt of the earth chap. With his roots in British culture and inarguably a national treasure, he ends our conversation on a fitting note.

“I love this country,” he says. “I’m devoted to Britain and its landscape, and keen to get more people out there appreciating what we’ve got.”

Kew Gardens, London

SUMMER STAPLES We love the new range from Burgon & Ball, who pride themselves on their 280-year heritage and are offering everything you need to get your green space garden party ready this summer.

Top of the Topiary Become the envy of your neighbours with a perfectly preened garden thanks to this introduction to topiary kit.

Trim and Tidy There is a place for everything and with these tidy tins everything can finally be put in its place.

Bring Me Home by Alan Titchmarsh is published in hardcover by Hodder & Stoughton at £18.99

The Birds and the Bees

Bees are an essential part of our ecosystem and their numbers are dwindling.

Help push their numbers back up with these bee friendly seeds.

All products featured available from www.burgonandball.com www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

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IS THE PEN MIGHTIER THAN THE SPADE?

WOMEN Perfect for relecting the heat, white is the staple colour choice when attending the traditional summer sporting pursuits, ladies days, weddings and garden parties that fill up our diaries.

Ladies, it’s time to step up and dress up writes Sy Ann Holden.

Image: Longtallsally

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THE CITY

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HOT IN

Mixed with black, metallics and flashes of hot pink or worn head to toe, the white trend is anything but angelic. As wearable for a perfect Summers day as it is for the office.

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12 1. Dune White Lace Up Leather Brogues £69.00 2. Oasis Watch £30 3. Bionda Castana ERIKA Sandals, www. youngbritishdesigners.com, £510 4. lipsy Prom Dress £58 5. marksandspencer best of british £249 6. missguided Necklace Detail Flute Sleeved Blouse £17.99 7. accessorize White Snakeskin Wallet £15.00 8. jaeger Textured Sumer Coat £350 9. Coast Laura Dress, £135 10. www.youngbritishdesigners.com Danielle Foster CAITY Rucksack £470 11. marksandspencer Best of British Magenta Satchel £299 12. Lulu Guinness lip wallet, £75

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POOL PARTY

As tempting as it is to second guess the poolside dress code, we tend to wear a few items 90% of the time…These picks are light in the luggage yet still pack a punch.

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1. olivergoldsmith Kiss in Black Quartz £850 2. MyaBlueBeach Kaftan - £80 Browns Lingerie, Francis Street and www.BrownsLingerie.com 3. Accessorize Coachella Bumbag, £29 4. Versace bikini top, £120 5. fitflop flora urban white £65 6. next Mesh Panel Swimsuit £26 7. dune Monochrome Floppy Sun Hat £29 8. lipsy Kimono £50 9. floral fan £5 accessorize 10. Office Hyper sandal £35

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1. M&S collection floral bikini £22.50, Marks and Spencer 2. luxury milan stone ring £14 accessorize 3. definitions opp chiffon maxi dress £39 very 4. Gucci Paisley Print Blouse, £685 Cruise 5. marisota cutwork detail bag £25 6. dune Lambo wedges £110 7. MyaBlueBeach Kaftan - £80 Browns Lingerie, Francis Street and www.BrownsLingerie.com 8. Ted Baker Summer Dusk Maxi Dress, Grey £229

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LIFE’S A BEACH But the packing needn’t be… dresses and co-ordinates are a good pick for practical packing and can be styled for day and night.

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You don’t need to leave your favourite beauty products behind on the bathroom shelf when you head off to warmer climes.

HELEN GOUGH picks her hero travel sets.

Whether it’s the heat of Hawaii, the romance of Rome or the temptation of Thailand, wherever you’re heading for your summer sojourn make sure you take your everyday beauty essentials with you to keep you pampered and preened for your holidays.

Find suitcase room for luxurious travel sets, packed with a host of miniature must-haves and ensure you keep up your daily beauty regime away from home.

Acqua Di Parma £56

Benefit £25.50

Designer Dress Agency Celebrates Eight Years at the forefront of Fashion Think of pre-worn clothing and you most often imagine dusty duds of dubious style and quality. What you don’t imagine is rack after rack of beautiful, one-off designer pieces (many with the original labels attached), accessories and shoes from the likes of Vivienne Westwood, DKNY, Nicole Farhi, Fenn Wright and Manson, Mulberrry, Christian Louboutin and many more and this is exactly what Labels Designer Dress Agency offers. In fact, they’ve not only changed the face of fashion here in Leicester, but have also been quietly dressing some of the region’s leading fashion cognoscenti for occasions as varied as Royal Appointments, and the races as well as offering chic informal wear.

Owned and operated by former dancer and current Zumba instructor, Carol Askew, the Clarendon Park Road store has been successfully trading for eight years - and it’s not difficult to see why. Carol is both approachable and highly knowledgeable about her stock and, most importantly, how to dress women impeccably.

She understands the customer and even has a Wish Wall service where she will try her utmost to find your dream piece of clothing or accessory - such as this gorgeous new Ruby Rose Handbag, exclusive to Labels in Leicester and a snip at just £85. Husbands take note!

Labels Designer Dress Agency is at 157 Clarendon Park Road, Leicester. LE23AJ Tel. 0116 270 1627

Cowshed £22

Creme de la Mer £335

BROWNS Lingerie & Beachwear

Dr Hauschka £60

Elemis £68

Eve Lom £75

MoroccanOil £34

Lingerie Swimwear 8-20 Bikinis Kaftans Cover Ups Beach Dresses Hosiery Nightwear

T: 0116 2707188 35 Francis Street

Stoneygate Leicester LE2 2BE Percy & Reed £24

Strivectin £53

www.BrownsLingerie.com

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PASSPORT, TICKET ...

AND BEAUTY ESSENTIALS!

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ENGLISH RIVIERA

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11 8 Indulge in this season’s sorbet shades and transport yourself to the English Riviera.

Feeling washed out? Try working this trend with golden yellows or peachy tones.

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1. next Sunglasses £35 2. tedbaker Bestuck Purse, £89 3. Vivienne Westwood Red Label Drape Floral Dress, £500 Cruise 4. whatsabouttown Enamel And Swarovski Crystal Ice Cream Pendant £24.95 5. topshop £68 Fuse green floral dress 6. womens riviera white crop trousers, £26 Dune 7. women’s riviera peach square cut crop £49 Mint Velvet 8. cleob.com, Ringo multi Kitten Heels £175 9. Balenciaga Le Dix Clasp Sandals, £505 Cruise 10. topshop Lemon dress £85 11. tedbaker Cosette Dress, £139

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olstering the already bustling boutiques of Allandale Road and Francis Street, Rue Thirty Seven has arrived with a unique range of vintage inspired, fair trade and organic ladies wear that is not only kind to the environment but kind on the purse strings too meaning more treats and much less guilt!

RUE THIRTY SEVEN ARRIVES

With a playful and eclectic selection of clothing for all ages, pretty tea dresses in the most flattering of wrap cuts sit aside ‘Madmen’ inspired workwear. The range, from label Collectif, contains a mixture of blouses and dresses that are sure to looks as good out of the office as they do in! Meanwhile, the new bohemian summer collection from big brand Braintree will no doubt find a happy home in every woman’s wardrobe and is made from sustainable eco fibres such as hemp, bamboo & organic cotton.

To keep up with news and new additions, find Rue Thirtyseven on Facebook • Rue Thirty Seven is at 37 Francis Street, Stoneygate, Leicester. LE2 2BE www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

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Emma Brown Hair salon, based in the heart of Leicester offers a premium service at affordable prices

MAKE A RESERVATION TODAY

(including NUS student discount). We have award-winning stylists trained in the latest trends, cutting

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techniques and colouring skills in order to help you create a new image or simply give you a refresh.

Our busy Clarendon Park salon has a warm and friendly atmosphere, which makes every visit a relaxing

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and memorable experience. We offer free consultations, which are totally without obligation and

EMMA BROWN HAIR

an unrivalled reputation for innovation, quality and the very best in hair care and advice.

140 Clarendon Park Road Leicester LE2 3AE (Opposite the library)

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dluxeman

36

MAN Give yourself a thorough dressing down; it’s Summer after all…

Image: F&F

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Suits you

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Be more Milan this Summer and pick up some of the High Street’s cooler shades for suiting. Keep ‘em peeled for breathable fabrics no matter whether you’re office bound or celebrating in high society.

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1. Primark Floral Shorts £10 2. briefcase £150 Debenhams 3. denim blazer £90 jacamo 4.

Debenhams Bow Tie £16 5. Matalan Pocket Square £5 6. tedbaker Twiltro Chino, £89 7. tedbaker Arwan Blazer, £250 8. Dune Tan Rupert Loafers £135 9. Marks and Spencer Harris Tweed Rucksack, £129 10. next Weave Shoes £45 11. primarkuk Floral Tie £2 12. Rotary Gents Stainless Steel Pocket Watch With Roman Skeleton Dial £229 13. burtonmenswearlondon Rose Cotton Jacket £89.

dluxeman

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DESERT ISLAND

Wish List

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As Private Shopper at Harvey Nichols, JOHN PAUL MCGUIRK is spoilt for choice when it comes to the latest men’s grooming must-haves. But if he was stuck on a desert island with just four products to his name, what would they be?

ACQUA DI PARMA COLONIA INTENSA AFTER SHAVE BALM, £39: This luxurious balm is designed to hydrate and minimise irritation after shaving.

Lightly perfumed, skin is left scented with the delicate fragrance of the label’s signature Colonia Intensa scent.

It’s also jam-packed with natural ingredients, including aloe vera gel, grapevine extract, almond oil and wheatgerm.

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Chillax 7

Loosen that tie and slip off those shoes but remember, to chillax is to be cool so make sure your outfit reflects your inner state of classic calm rather than your inner couch potato.

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ELEMIS TIME DEFENCE EYE REVIVER, £39: The skin around your eyes is way more sensitive than the skin on the rest of your face so you need an eye cream which is effective but does not overload. This lightweight anti-ager is clinically proven to reduce the depth of wrinkles and increase hydration, great after sun exposure.

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1. Debenhams John Rocha Shorts £32 2. dotcomgiftshop Vintage World Map Glasses Case & Cleaning Cloth £4.95 3. appleandbee Travel Wallet £24.99 4. myoptiquegroup Ralph by Ralph Lauren Sunglasses £60 5. asos denim shorts £20 6. blue harbour luxury suede lace up driving shoes £59 Marks and Spencer 7. floral dip dye shirt £25 Burton 8. Matalan, Canvas Barrel Bag, £15.00 9. Luke 1977, bonny polo shirt £60 10, Givenchy rose print sandals, £400 (Click & Collect), Harvey Nichols

DR JACKSON’S COCONUT MELT BALM, £10: With only 100% organic coconut oil, this little pot of magic is solid at room temperature but melts to the touch.

It is ideal as an all-over everything cream, but is a marvel for soothing dry lips. Don’t get stranded without it!

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LAB SERIES BB TINTED MOISTURISER, £35: Already a favourite of the fairer sex, BB creams just about do everything ... camouflage imperfections, SPF protect, hydrate, improve tone and boost radiance. This summer essential also adds a little colour to your cheeks.

All items featured are available from Harvey Nichols Birmingham.

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Are you ready to bare your belly this summer?

Take the Bikram and Urban City Bikini Challenge 6 weeks unlimited yoga for ÂŁ60*

Bikram Yoga Leicester 59 Friar Lane Leicester LE1 5RB 0116 261 9262 www.bikramyogaleicester.co.uk

dluxemotors

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Fantastic F-TYPE Coupe

By Chris Russon

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NZO Ferrari described the E-Type Jaguar as the most beautiful car in the world.

Yet the E-Type that Jaguar founder Sir William Lyons first showed off at the Geneva Motor Show back in 1961 was a fixed head coupe while the open top roadster waited in the wings.

It took more than 50 years before Jaguar was to produce another two seater when the F-TYPE arrived last year – a sensuous convertible with awesome performance.

Now comes the F-TYPE Coupe and it has even more venom.

The coupe is available in ultra high performance R specification with an astonishing top speed restricted to 186mph and supercar acceleration of 0 to 60 in four seconds dead.

It is a firebrand in every way and described

by Jaguar as the most dynamically capable, performance focused car it has ever made.

That’s a big claim but the F-TYPE R lives up to it by demonstrating amazing agility and balance.

Fitted with torque vectoring control and an electronic active differential it manages the huge amount of power the 550ps supercharged five-litre V8 engine pumps through the rear wheels with complete composure.

Shod with carbon ceramic brakes – a £7,400 option on top of the £85,000 asking price – the new Jaguar showed its mettle when put through its paces on a race track in central Spain.

The stopping power is immense reining in the car surely and swiftly from speeds in excess of 150mph while through the sharpest of bends and cruel cambers the handling was faultless as the systems kept the car in check.

The noise from the four exhausts – artificially enhanced to produce a soundtrack to delight any race car fanatic – is unmatched in this day and age and crackles and pops just like the legendary Le Mans winning Jaguars of the 1950s.

It is an interpretation of all of Jaguar’s heritage in a car that is bang up to date.

while the design of the rear window is a straight flashback to the E-Type.

Inside, as with the F-TYPE convertible the cockpit is intimate yet high tech and functional.

Golden finishes on the starter button and drive mode selector separate them from the other controls while an eight-inch colour touchscreen for the sat nav, onboard computer and communications systems sits below a bank of retractable vents which emerge from the top of the dash when the climate control is activated.

Although the coupe has a much more practical boot than the convertible – 315 litres to the parcel shelf which translates into enough space for three flight cases – it is still purely a two seater and side vision to the rear is limited. A parking camera is a must and the power operated tailgate is another useful option.

R logos are embossed in the leather seatbacks and all the trim is finely stitched – a classy finish for a classy car.

The coupe will be arriving in the next few weeks with the R model becoming the flagship of a range that also includes two three-litre supercharged V6 versions priced from £51,235 for a 340ps model or £60,245 for

Made entirely from aluminium the coupe is not only light in weight – the R tips the scales at 1.6 tonnes which is little more than a MINI – but it is also very rigid.

With wide rear haunches its swooping lines are punctuated with aerodynamic tweaks that create a car that looks as fantastic as it performs.

A glass panoramic roof is an option which subtly alters the coupe’s poise as do stand out paint jobs which include a delicious rhodium silver and a rich dark blue.

Perhaps it looks its best in bright salsa red with chrome detail in the side vents and around the windows highlighting the smooth lines.

A spoiler pops up from the tailgate at motorway speeds adding the equivalent of 18 stones in weight to the downforce www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

a 380ps F-TYPE S Coupe.

While not quite as devastatingly quick as the F-TYPE R they are still out of the top drawer of Jaguar performance cars.

Both V6s hover around five seconds 0 to 60 and all F-TYPEs have eight speed quickshift auto gearboxes with a stop/start system.

Fuel economy is largely irrelevant for this type of car but Jaguar is claiming 32.1mpg for the V6, 31.0 for the S and 25.5 for the R with emissions of 205, 213 and 259 respectively.

On our drive in the F-TYPE R we saw an average close on 23 to the gallon while a cruising 70mph run in the F-Type S resulted in 34.5mpg showing considerable grand tourer potential with a range in excess of 500 miles from the 15.8 gallon tank.

They are gorgeous, uncompromising sports cars, some £7,000 cheaper than the roadster for the V6s while the F-TYPE R is £5,000 more than the V8 convertible but in a league of its own in the Jaguar stable for sheer performance.

It’s British sports car motoring at its best.

Sturgess Jaguar, 445 Narborough Rd, Leicester LE3 2RE, Tel. 0116 366 0118 www.sturgessgroup.co.uk

HEALTH

SHAPE UP FOR SUMMER!

With the arrival of lighter nights and spring blossom in the air, most of us have one thing on our minds – SUMMER! And with this comes the annual fear of baring all on the beach…

Luckily for us Alexis Fletcher, Personal Trainer, blogger and nutritionist is on hand with her basic 4-week guide, designed to firm up those problem areas through a combination of high intensity workouts and healthy eating.

There is no such thing as a miracle fix, but this will certainly set you well on the way to achieving that fabled beach bod!

Warm Up Perform each exercise for 1 min: - Star jumps.

- Jog on spot.

- Lift alternate knees up to chest.

- Kick alternate feet back up to bum.

- Arm circles forward and back.

Resistance is NOT Futile Choose one exercise from each muscle group; perform it for 1 minute before repeating the circuit a further two times (with 30 seconds rest in between). Increase exercise time to 1.5 minutes after week two

Bum Squat Jump (plyometric):

Crash Course Cardio Perform each exercise for 1 min and carry out 3 circuits in total: - Skipping - Burpees - Hula-hooping Finish your cardio section with 10 minutes of running or cycling alternating between fast and slow pace in one-minute intervals.

Use the discount code FLEXGRID to get 10% off some great equipment such as hula-hoops and skipping ropes at w w w. G y m R o o m . com

Stand with your feet hip width apart, push your hips back and jump up as high as possible landing in a squat position and repeat.

Lying Bridge: Lie on your back with a weight on your stomach (a few copies of dluxe magazine will do!) knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Squeeze your glutes together to lift yourself up and repeat.

Leg Lift: On all fours, lift one leg parallel to the floor behind you, flex your foot and lift your leg towards ceiling. Lower down and repeat with the other leg.

Arms

Stomach

Push Up (plyometric):

Flutter Kick (plyometric):

In a normal push-up position, lower yourself to the floor, then with an explosive force push off the floor so that your hands leave the floor. Repeat.

Lying face up squeeze your abs and glutes as you alternately kick your legs up towards the ceiling, ensuring you keep them off the floor the whole time.

Tricep Dips:

Lunge Twists:

Find a hard, heavy surface around knee height then sit on the edge, with your hands either side of your hips. Straighten your legs and lower your body down as deep as you can before lifting yourself back up.

Repeat staying as close to the edge as possible.

Stand holding a weight with two hands. Stride out into lunge position and twist with your obliques to the side your leg is out on. Return to the starting position and repeat with the other leg. Twist and shout if you feel the need to!

Tricep Raise: Kneeling down grab a suitable weight. Holding with both hands lift behind your head and straighten your arms up. Dip the weight down towards the floor before straightening the arms again. Feel the burn!

Wide Row: Sitting on the floor place elbows on 2 sturdy chairs. Bend knees 90’ and lift feet off floor. Press elbows into chairs and push chest forward as you pull your knees in. Row, row, row your boat….

Try and do this 4-5 times a week and mix it up each time for variation. It’s important to keep your body guessing and helps with motivation!

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Meal Plan Though vital to get in good shape, exercise is not the be all and end all. To achieve the physique of your dreams, you’ll need to assess all areas of your life,including the dreaded D-word: diet.

Snack:

First thing:

Piece of fruit or unsalted nuts

Dinner:

Hot water with lemon for detox

Breakfast:

Smoothie: Choose your own selection of fruit or veg. For protein add nuts or protein powder and if you want some extra liquid add water or almond milk. A healthy fat such as flaxseed oil or coconut cream always goes down well, as does some extra flavour in the form of cacao or ginger.

Half a plate of veg like broccoli or spinach, a quarter of protein such as fish or chicken and make up the rest with low-GI carbohydrates like quinoa or millet.

Protein is important first thing in the morning as it keeps your blood sugar levels low and will help keep you from reaching for the biscuit tin later in the day!

Lunch:

1 lot of raw veg like cherry tomatoes, 1 filling veg such as avocado, 1 dressing like olive oil and balsamic and 1 protein like chicken (grilled), top with chili flakes (optional).

Dessert: Natural yoghurt with berries, grapes or cherries (good to eat at night as grapes hydrate you and cherries help you sleep) or a couple of pieces of dark chocolate (minimum 75% cocoa).

Drink lots of herbal tea and water and if you need that caffeine fix have a coffee an hour before your workout to give you that extra buzz!

Use natural products such as honey to sweeten things and season everything to enhance taste; easy on the salt though!

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FAMILY 44

Fun in the Sun! The summer holidays are fast approaching and there’s lots of fun to be had. However, six weeks can feel like a lifetime if you have bored children… so we’ve racked our brains to bring you some fab activities, toys and arts & crafts ideas that will keep you all entertained, as well as out in the fresh air.

Pack up a picnic and go somewhere green…

You can’t beat spending summer days outside with a good old picnic.

Leicestershire has no shortage of luscious greenery, with Bradgate Park, Abbey Park and Market Bosworth all offering fantastic al fresco options, so get reacquainted with nature and enjoy the scenery!

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A spot of stylish shade

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1. summer fun teepee £150, myweeteepee 2. John Lewis Tropicana Tumbler, Lime, £2 3. Floral vintage doily flask and cup, £12.95 from dotcomgiftshop 4. AnnabelJames Kissing Rabbit picnic Coolbag, £37.95 5. mini kids backpacks, £9.95 dotcomgiftshop

GARDEN GAMES Get the whole family involved in garden games and crafts. With ‘playing out’ verging on a vintage concept summer is the perfect time to go back to Victorian times and teach your children all the games your great grandparents used to play. Draw hopscotch with vibrant Crayola chalks or show them the traditional game of quoits.

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Flower press kit £14.95, dotcomgiftshop 3. Traditional badminton set £16.95 dotcomgiftshop 4.

Kids farm shop playhouse, £29.95, dotcomgiftshop 5.

T-shirt Markers, £8.50 Smiggle, Highcross 6. Quoits family garden game £17.00 www.aspace.co.uk

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March – June – Sept – Dec 2014 45

Best Friends Vets 29 Glenfield Rd East, Leicester, LE3 5QW

T: 0116 251 7677 E: leicester@bestfriendsgroup.com Open: 9am – 7pm Weekdays Ingredients: • For the honey shallot relish: • 1 tbsp olive oil • 10 shallots, peeled and finely sliced • 2 tsp runny honey • Salt & Pepper • For the fritters • 50g butter • 8 shallots, chopped finely • 2 cloves garlic, crushed • 100g plain flour • 100ml milk • 100ml goats’ cheese, crumbled • 8 leaves fresh basil, shredded • 2 eggs, beaten • 50g white breadcrumbs • vegetable oil

Method: Start with the relish by heating the olive oil in a heavy based panl. Add the sliced shallots and then the honey, combining well. Turn down the heat

and allow to cook slowly and caramelise for approximately 15 minutes while you make the rest of the dish.

In a small casserole pan, melt the butter and add the chopped shallots and garlic, cook on a low heat for 3 – 4 minutes until softened.

Add 50g of the flour, mix well then cook out for 1 minute on a low heat.

Pour in the milk slowly, then add the goats’ cheese, mix well and leave to cool. Add the basil and season to taste.

Roll the mixture into balls, adding the last 50g of flour as well as the egg and finally the breadcrumbs, repeat in the egg and again in the breadcrumbs.

When ready to serve deep fry in some hot oil at 180°C for 3 – 4 minutes until they are a light golden colour.

9am – 3pm Saturdays

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THE

Filo jam tarts

stoneygate

SPRING MARKET 2014

SUNDAY 22 june 11am - 4pm ALLANDALE ROAD & FRANCIS STREET Ingredients: • 10g unsalted butter, melted • 4 sheets filo pastry • Zest of 1 orange • 16 tbsp Streamline Jam

Method: Preheat the oven to 180C/160C fan/Gas 4.

Brush a filo sheet with half the butter; cover the other 3 sheets with cling film or a damp tea towel so they don’t dry out.

Sprinkle half the orange zest over, spreading out with the pastry brush, then lay another filo sheet on top.

With the long edge of the pastry closest to you, cut in half from top to bottom, cut each piece in half again so you have 4 equal strips, then cut each strip into 4 so you have 16 squares. Gently press the squares into a holed baking tray.

Repeat the process with the 2 remaining pastry sheets, placing a second square on top of the first at a slight angle.

Fill each case with 1tbsp of Streamline Jam. Don’t over fill them. Bake for 15 mins until the cases are golden then remove from the oven and set aside until the jam has set and cooled

SPRING TIME FOOD AND DRINK CRAFTS AND GIFTS FOR STALL HOLDER ENQUIRIES CONTACT:

CAROLINE@FU-MEDIA.CO.UK /STONEYGATESHOPS

@STONEYGATESHOPS

WWW.STONEYGATESHOPPING.BLOGSPOT.CO.UK

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dluxe family

Why settle with pre-packed soggy sandwiches when you can jump into the kitchen and rustle up something really special in no time at all? Try these crispy shallot and basil fritters – perfect with any dip – or for those with a sweeter tooth: a jam tart with filo pastry.

dluxe travel

46

Be Prepared!

A Scout Hall in the Isle of Wight honours the promise of a vintage girlie weekend, writes Lesley Bellew

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s a group of five women we’ve been a long, long way together. We’ve chopped and changed careers, homes and sometimes men, as well as sharing the hatch, match and dispatch landmarks - but one area of our lives has remained constant, warts and all, our friendship.

That was a heavy conversation on the Wightlink ferry from Portsmouth to Fishbourne but it augured well for our return to the island which most of us had not visited since a school journey.

Now one of our ‘Golden Girls’ had decided to get married for the first time, aged 56 (‘I didn’t want to rush into anything,’ she said), we were off for a weekend in a renovated Scout Hall, on the south side of the Isle of Wight.

The sign outside the former Chale Scout Hall declared ‘Be Prepared’. Was that to warn the locals we were about to descend on the village or was there a surprise in store?

Right on both counts.

The ‘oohs and aahs’ started early as the cute green building with red and cream paintwork glistened in the sunshine. Once through the original double doors we stepped into a film set.

We dashed from room to room; delighting at the vintage furniture and mix of retro accessories.

There were flying ducks on the wall, blankets and banners sewn with Scout and Guide badges and bus destination signs in the hallway proclaimed a roll call of seaside resorts - Ryde, Bembridge, Sandown, Shanklin and Ventnor.

We flipped a coin for the bedrooms.

The bride-to-be shaked, rattled and rolled into the Elvis room, complete with life-size cut-out of The King to keep her company and a retro radio for sing-a-longs. The bridesmaids danced into the African Queen room which was complete with leopard skin-style bedcovers and a tallboy wardrobe made out of an old suitcase.

In the Sixties room, we loved the wallpaper printed with old bus tickets and the melamine dressing table complete with glass vanity set, brush and mirror. If only we’d brought our mini-skirts. Well, maybe not.

Even the pale blue 60s toilet suite, complete with black seat and lid, brought back some memories – and who was caught reading the Ladybird ‘How to Swim’ and ‘Scouts’ books left on the side?

The vintage atmosphere got the better of us and we went into memory lane hyperdrive. We felt very much at one among an eclectic mix of 20th century classics (in more ways than one).

The upstairs open-plan living space ensured the shape of the building was not lost. We crashed out on a huge, L-shaped red leather sofa and opened the glass doors onto the deck with views across the bay.

Mobile phones were off and bubbly on ice so we toasted the bride-to-be and our friendship that was forged and has endured, give or take four decades.

We settled into a rare combination of luxury accommodation that’s not only comfortable but makes you smile at every corner. Kitsch came by the dollop but corners had not been cut on creature comforts. Decent mattresses and quality bedding, unlimited hot water(!) and a second bathroom with probably the best view in the Isle of Wight.

After more bubbly came a chaotic make-up session, followed by the pre-requisite Mr and Mrs quiz where the bride-to-be was suitably embarrassed by having to admit the weirdest place she had made love.

We ignored the retro ship’s galley kitchen and wandered along, in just two minutes, to the Wight Mouse for dinner, staggered back to talk through a rubbish film (well, nobody could remember it in the morning) and crashed out still laughing and eventually dreaming of well, happy days.

Our morning’s paragliding was postponed due to low cloud, which was probably just as well. So, for old time’s sake, we hired bikes and took to the road.

Lonely Planet rates the Isle of Wight as No 1 in the world for cycling. At Chale, there’s a series of hairpin ascents along the western shoreline and the Military Road sweeps down to Totland, so we decided to drive there the next day and opt for a gentler bike ride through the countryside.

country lanes, stopping to watch a ploughing match when we needed a breather. After a coffee and cake pit-stop we discovered an enchanting National Trust garden at the Elizabethan Mottisham Manor and later dreamed up more excuses to rest and take photos by a watermill and various pastel-painted thatched cottages. Free-wheeling down to the Sun Inn, at Hulverstone, gave us all a buzz and we arrived, surprisingly, all in one piece.

Island Cycling Adventures customises gentle outings for families through to 60-mile tours to circumnavigate the island, one call and they turned up at the Scout Hall with the bikes, helmets and two guides.

On our last day we walked off another boozy night along the Tennyson Downs, saw our first red squirrel in the gardens at Osborne House and later lazed at Compton Bay, a glorious two-mile stretch of bucket and spades beach.

Cycling for softies was the order of the day and we pedalled through the

Why had we left it so long to go back to the island?

ISLAND FACTS The Scout Hall sleeps up to eight in four bedrooms: 2 King, 1 King/Twin, 1 bunk room • All linen and towels provided • Copious central heating – no meters • TV with Freeview and DVD player; radio /CD/ iPod dock, phone / WiFi • Private parking • Prices from £250 mid-week, £545 for a weekend or £780 for a week • Contact Vintage Vacations www.vintagevacations.co.uk • Island Cycling Adventures www.islandcyclingadventures.co.uk More details at www.visitisleofwight.co.uk

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DINING 48

BAKING DELIGHTS...

Baking enthusiasts across the globe will recognise John Whaite as the lovable winner of The Great British Bake Off’s third series.

We met the law graduate turned patisserie chef to talk about why he turned his back on the courtroom in favour of the kitchen.

John Whaite Bakes At Home is published by Headline £20 - Food photography Matt Russell

John Whaite hasn’t put down the whisk since his stint in the bright white tents of The Great British Bake Off. After claiming the top prize over eleven other amateur bakers competing in the popular baking series, a level headed Whaite decided to continue his culinary education in classroom conditions. Now, with a Le Cordon Bleu patisserie diploma under his belt and two well-received cookbooks on the shelves, Whaite looks fondly back on his Bake Off experience.

“It was probably the most fun I’ve ever had in my life,” the softly spoken baker tells us.

“We’d be out on a Friday night, enjoying food and drinks, then be off to the tent on a Saturday to start filming. Months later, you think, ‘Oh crumbs, I’m being watched by 7 million people and I’ve just done a woody woodpecker impression!’” he laughs. “So it’s daunting, but it’s the best thing I’ve ever done.”

Whaite’s been busy developing his own recipes of late, catering for home bakers old and new. From al fresco dining to grab-andgo delights, his latest offering, John Whaite Bakes at Home, has a personal edge.

“The cookbook sort of epitomises what home baking means to me. It describes how baking at home can be literally at home or it can be with your friends on a Friday night making pizzas and sharing beers.

There’s also some great picnic recipes in there because it’s starting to get sunnier, the days are getting longer. It’s a book that demonstrates what home baking is to me, with simple, tasty recipes.

This cake is absolutely perfect for long sunny evenings, and it goes without saying that it should be accompanied by a tall glass of the liquid form. The rum part is entirely optional but let’s face it: without the rum there’s no Mojito!

Ingredients • • • • • • •

9 eggs, separated 450g golden caster sugar 230ml water 160ml sunflower oil 380g plain flour 1 tsp salt 3 limes, zest only

FOR THE FIllING • • • • • •

400ml double cream 200g icing sugar 10 large mint leaves, finely chopped 3 tbsp white rum (optional) Lime Curd

FOR THE TOppING

ITO CAKE JOHN WHAITE’S MOJ SERVES 12–14

• • • • • • • •

250g icing sugar Juice of - to 1 lime Lime zest to decorate Essential equipment 28cm/11-inch round, loose-bottomed cake tin, ungreased Disposable piping bag fitted with 10mm nozzle

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 170°C/150°C fan/Gas 3.

2. Place the egg yolks, sugar, water and oil in a large mixing bowl and beat together until smooth. Sift over the flour and salt and beat in along with the lime zest until well incorporated.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites to stiff peaks, then fold gently into the batter. Pour the batter into the tin and tap the tin lightly to expel any air bubbles.

Bake for 60–75 minutes, until well risen, golden and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Invert on to a wire rack to cool upside down.

4. Make the filling by whisking the cream and icing sugar to soft, floppy peaks, before folding in the mint, and rum if using.

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5. When the cake has cooled, remove from the tin and slice horizontally into two even layers. Place one on a cake board or large cake stand and spread it generously with the lime curd. Fill the piping bag with the cream and pipe in neat concentric circles over the curd in two layers, then top with the other cake half – I like to use the bottom half and place it upside down so the flat bottom makes an evenly flat top.

6. Make the topping by beating together the icing sugar and lime juice, using as much juice as is necessary to achieve a spreadable but not too runny water icing – add more icing sugar or lime juice as necessary.

Spread this on top of the cake and even out. Finish with a scattering of lime zest.

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The White Peacock, nestled at the root of Leicester’s leafy New Walk has already garnered itself a reputation for quality fine dining with an unpretentious atmosphere, even though it only opened its doors to the public in December. dluxe LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND’S’ Kevin Urquhart decided to see what all the fuss was about and was rewarded with one of the best meals he’s had in the city for a very long time - and he’s a picky so-and-so...

It’s little wonder that The White Peacock is capturing so many imaginations. The creation of well-known local chef Phillip Sharpe, (who cut his teeth and won numerous awards as Head Chef at the city’s Hotel Maiyango) the restaurant’s aim is to offer a little bit of ‘Affordable Luxury’ to the city’s dining community. That is, to combine unique and high-quality, locally-farmed food and drink in a convivial atmosphere and what better way to gain an insight into the chef’s ideology by sampling the eight course tasting menu, priced at a reasonable £45 per head.

The eight course tasting menu helpfully suggests eight courses, but if there is anything on the menu that you are not au fait with, or simply don’t enjoy (scallops, on behalf of my partner), they are happy to explain, or suggest an alternative; the aim is to make this an unforgettable experience for the diner so they’re not going to make you eat something you don’t want!

Before we knew it, our first course had arrived; a silky smooth Goats Cheese mousse with cherry tomato, basil, pine nuts and a miniature parmesan crisp, the sweetness of the basil and tomato cutting through the cheese’s tang beautifully- a perfect start.

I don’t get the chance to eat a lot of fish at home, as the other half has a childish aversion to it all, so course two was a great chance for me to enjoy the seared fillet of halibut with chorizo gnocci and langoustine essence. It was easily the tastiest fish I’ve

ever had and one I’m hoping is offered as a full-sized course on my next visit. A crisp cold glass of citrusy Cintalo from Portugal accompanied it perfectly.

Our next course was a collection of Gressingham Duck which arrived in a variety of fabulous forms; a delicious fried samosa, a chilled tureen and a rich, thick mousse.

A salad of sweet mangos, mandarins and slithers of radish transported our tastebuds to the white sands of the Caribbean and complemented the richness of the duck. For us, the mousse was a little too rich when sampled with the accompanying chargrilled brioche although the depth of flavour in isolation was good.

Only four dishes in and it was time to go up a belt notch and time for more fish; Yellow Fin Tina with sharp pickled vegetables and a sweet chilli and soy vinaigrette. The tuna was cooked beautifully, melting in the mouth and, although not normally a fan of Chardonnay, the accompanying El Camino bloomed in the glass with the flavours of peaches and cream.

This truly was an exceptional taste experience and our fifth dish continued to surpass expectations; Roasted fillet of beef with a smoked parsnip puree, wild mushrooms and shallots. Even though this is a tasting menu the portions are not unsubstantial and although rapidly filling up, the medium rare cooked beef and the dauphinoise stack served beside it were demolished in record time.

It was at this point we really did need a break and we were pleased to see a sharp passionfruit and mango sorbet arrive to refresh our palate before course number seven; a platter of puddings including a sumptuous rose panacotta, scrumptious chocolate fondant with salted ice cream, a www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

glossy chocolate orange mousse with a real depth of flavour and a divine crème brulee served in a vintage (miniature) school milk bottle. I’m especially sweet-toothed and a bit of a pudding connoisseur, and this really did live up to its savoury predecessors, hence a complete demolition job by me.

At this stage, my sugary greed came back to bite me and I had to admit defeat in cancelling course number eight from the kitchens; a selection of British cheeses; the idea of which just pushed me over the edge.

As full as I was, waddling to the car my next visit to The White Peacock was already being planned in my head; the food there and the service is just so good. You don’t have to go the whole hog and plump for the tasting menu, enjoy two or three courses from the a la carte selection and experience a truly unique dining experience in the city- just make sure you book first- word is spreading!

The White Peacock is at 14-16 King Street, Leicester. LE1 6RJ. Tel 0116 254 7663 www.the-white-peacock.co.uk

dluxe dining

reviewed THE WHITE PEACOCK

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A TASTE OF ITALY ARRIVES IN LEICESTERSHIRE Gallone’s Ice Cream Parlour is set to open its doors in Leicestershire for the first time this June. Housed on the ground floor of the former council offices in the newly refurbished Symington Building in Market Harborough, the family run parlour is the second Gallone’s outlet following the success of their ice cream outlet in Northampton.

The new parlour will stock 32 of Gallone’s own homemade flavours, including ‘the best vanilla ice cream in the UK’ and ‘the best old English toffee’ according to 2 recent awards.

Also on the menu will be the Bellini sorbet, winner of the Great Taste Award 2013. The parlour will be open seven days a week, and will also sell hot and cold drinks and cakes.

Gallone’s is a family run business that has been making and selling ice cream across the UK since 1895, “The success of the Northampton parlour prompted us to look for premises elsewhere, and Harborough was our first choice with its historical charm and reputation for supporting independent businesses,” explains owner Aldo Gallone.“Italian ice cream has a reputation for being the finest in the world – and rightly so,” adds Aldo. “Our ice cream is made to traditional Italian recipes perfected across a century in business, using the finest ingredients. Keep your eyes peeled for some new flavours as well as the old favourites.”

LANDMARK HOTEL CELEBRATES 80 YEARS AT THE HEART OF LEICESTER

L

eicester’s Belmont Hotel in De Montfort Street celebrates 80 years of independent ownership by the Bowie family next month. This special hotel retains its unique character yet integrates modern facilities and technology for today’s business and leisure customer.

Built in 1861, The Belmont started its life as an infant school and became a Young Women’s Christian Association House and a government office during the first world war. In 1934 Mrs Rachel Bowie from Edinburgh bought the property and started a commercial 12 bedroom hotel offering bed and breakfast for six shillings or high tea, bed and breakfast for eight and six!

When Rachel’s son James became engaged to Olive Elcock a few years later, she returned to Scotland leaving James and Olive to run the hotel.

Over the course of many years, they invested and developed the business, buying houses next to the Belmont along the leafy New Walk, so increasing capacity.

Their eldest son James took over the

VINTAGE TEA ROOMS TO OPEN AT LEICESTER ANIMAL CENTRE Woodside Animal Centre is opening a vintage tearoom so visitors can enjoy a cuppa and a cake while raising money to care for animals in need. Kathy’s Vintage Tea Room will be open on the first and third Saturday of each month at the animal rescue centre on Scudamore Road.

Run by volunteers Kathy Allen and Lesley Rawlings, it will serve homemade cakes,

sandwiches and drinks from 11am to 2pm.

Well-behaved dogs are welcome, and the volunteers hope some of the dogs that have found new homes after being rescued by the centre will return with their owners.

All proceeds are directly donated to the Woodside Animal Centre, which cares for neglected, mistreated and abandoned dogs, cats and smaller animals.

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running of the hotel in 1970 and remains its Managing Director today. In 2014, The Belmont Hotel boasts 75 bedrooms, eight conference rooms, regularly hosts international business leaders and celebrities and is known as the place to stay in Leicester.

Managing Director James Bowie, who is also President of the Leicestershire Chamber of Commerce, said: “The Belmont Hotel has a unique character, we look to provide the best facilities, service and delicious food and we believe it is important that we remain at the very heart of Leicester’s business and leisure community.”

In its 80th year, The Belmont Hotel is supporting local charity TwentyTwenty whose inspirational work with disadvantaged young people in the Leicestershire area helps them to fulfil their potential and find a bright future for themselves.

Over the course of the year, the hotel is working alongside TwentyTwenty to mentor some of their young people who are interested in the hospitality industry and is giving them a chance to gain experience within the hotel.

The Belmont Hotel, De Montfort Street, Leicester. LE1 7GR Tel. 0116 254 4773 www.belmonthotel.co.uk

Special Offers to Dluxe readers Better value than GroupOn!*

Chutney Ivy Chu all you lovely Dluxe readers…a nine course set tastes, all from our favourite Leicester restaurant!

Simply quote Dluxe Offer when booking your apply.

Chutney Ivy serves a range contemporary dishes inspired by the modern Indian palate, mixed with

C includes various starters and main course tasters, served in a banquet style, plus poppadoms, rice and naan.

Choose from the following options for your Chutney Ivy Experience: Nine-dish feast with sides to share: £24.95 for two people £48.95 for four people Two-course a la carte meal with sides each:** £28.9

divided between a spacious lounge and drinks area and a linen-clad dining room. Drapes, glass, wood Purchase: Limit 1 per 2 or 4 people. Booking: and industrial touches blended with plush fabrics Required by phone only. 48-hour cancellation policy.

Restrictions: Valid Mon-Fri Midday-2.30pm; MonSat 5.30pm-10.30pm. Last seating at 10pm. New private access to ‘hip’ late lounge basement bar, with music. Up to 80 people can be hosted for banqueting, with around 120 for a drinks and

allocated per session. *This offer is listed exclusively to Dluxe magazine ran locally with GroupOn. **Small surcharges may apply on some dishes

Call us now to book your Chutney Ivy Experience on 0116 251 1889 41 Halford St, Leicester LE1 1TR Reduced rate carparking available at NCP opposite

chutneyivy.com

Pierre Bensusan , 13 June @ The Hinkley ACT

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53 The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes 15 June@ Bradgate Park

One of Leicester’s biggest outdoor free festivals with activities for all ages, on and off the water returns once again this summer for what promises to be a great day out! The free festival offers activities for everyone including boat trips, live music, an arts and craft street market, children’s fun fair, a variety of food stalls and displays.

Guaranteed to have the whole family making the most of summertime in scenic sites around the city!

Everyone’s favourite murder mystery detective is returning to the stage, but not how you might expect. Loughborough Town Hall has joined together with Chapterhouse Theatre Company to put on a magical show at the heart of Bradgate Park! When Doctor Watson’s wife goes missing, Holmes must face his mortal enemy in order to find her again in this gripping tale.

www.visitleicester.info

www.loughboroughtownhall.co.uk

Pierre Bensusan 13 June @ The Hinkley ACT

Sebastian Faulks’ Birdsong 17 – 21 June @ Curve

Come and watch Pierre Bensusan’s unique brand of acoustic guitar music at this intimate music venue. Bensusan has been voted “Best World Music Guitar Player in 2008”

by Guitar Player Magazine Reader’s choice, so needless to say this guy is jaw-droppingly talented, with more than a few tricks up his sleeve. Catch him at Hinckley as he continues to stun audiences up and down the country.

The critically acclaimed stage show based on Sebastian Faulk’s popular novel Birdsong is coming to the Curve Theatre in Leicester.

Prepare to be moved by the haunting and emotional story of Stephen, one of the millions of young men who had their lives irreversibly changed by the First World War. The show comes complete with a hit cast, including former Blue Peter presenter Peter Duncan and Hollyoaks’ Jonny Clarke. Kleenex at the ready folks.

www.hinckleyact.co.uk

www.curveonline.co.uk

Get cape, wear cape, run!

Abbey Park was overrun by caped crusaders recently, as over 100 superheroes joined together to complete a 5km challenge. The race was organised by Leicester Charity Link and sponsored by Sturgess Motor Group along with The Fitness Bank. Susan McEniff of Leicester Charity Link commented, “We were so happy with the event and the money that has been raised for charity. We’ve had a lot of positive feedback and are looking to arrange the date for next year’s superhero fun run, which will be even bigger and even better!”

To keep up to date with future Leicester Charity Link events go to www.charity-link.org

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Riverside Festival 7 – 8 June @Castle Gardens, Bede Park, Mile Straight & Western Boulevard

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LEICESTERSHIRE LADIES DAYS What’s better than popping on your posh frock and enjoying a day in the sun? Summer brings with it a wealth of outdoor events and Ladies days to enjoys; here’s our pic of Leicestershire’s best.

Ladies Day at Leicester Racecourse, Saturday 5th July An expected 8000 people are set to experience a wonderful day of racing at Leicester Racecourse this year; a site that offers over 210 acres of green space in the heart of the city. With racing starting at 2.15 event goers can enjoy an afternoon of treats from pop up Pimms and Champagne bars around the course, an exclusive shopping village crammed full of gorgeous accessories, fashions and trinkets along with an extensive food court with a selection of gourmet treats from around the world alongside one or two British favourites.

The gates open at 11am so arrive early to grab a great vantage point and remember, as it is Ladies Day the key is to dress to impress!

This year there’s even more reason to make that extra effort as Leicester Racecourse will be awarding the ten best dressed ladies with a special prize from The Kibworth Emporium.

The party doesn’t end when the last horse passes the post. Over two hours of live music from Nik Kershaw, the fabulous Carol Decker of T’Pau and Hue & Cry ensure that this is one summer celebration not to miss.

Robert Bracken, General Manager, commented ‘this is our flag ship event of the year and one I and my team have been preparing for for months.’

We have listened to feedback from last year about queues and service and have worked hard to ensure this year’s event runs smoother.’I will be out and about on Ladies day and the first person to say ‘I read about ladies day in the magazine will get a drink on the house’ Tickets start at just £25 per person with premium packages including drinks, food and even a flutter are available from just £40.

To find out more visit www.leicester-racecourse.co.uk

The Sturgess Jaguar & Land Rover Polo Cup, Sunday 31st August 2014

Bring along all the family and surround yourself with beautiful countryside while enjoying the fast-paced action sport.

With a stunning VIP Pop-up Restaurant, a family area holding Leicester Tigers activities and vintage ice-cream and hot chocolate vans, a retail paddock and plenty of food and drinks bars – this is sure to be a day that all the family can enjoy.

The Sturgess Jaguar & Land Rover Polo Cup will be raising money for the Matt Hampson Foundation. Held at The van Oppen Polo Club, Ashley Road, Middleton, Leicestershire, LE16 8YP www.poloevents.co.uk

Sunflower Ball Hinckley Island Hotel, Leicestershire, Saturday 7th June 21014

Ascot Ladies Day at 34 Windsor Street, Thurday 19th June 2014

This summer will see the first ever Sunflower Ball, a night to dress-toimpress in black ties and evening gowns.

Taking place at the Hinckley Island Hotel, the Sunflower Ball is set to include a three-course meal, live music from ‘Stax of Soul’, a raffle and auction with proceeds going towards those living with Cystitis Fibrosis in memory of Tammy Harrison.

The perfect date to pull out your best hat.

Arrive at 34 Windsor Street to be greeted with nibbles and a glass of something fabulous, followed by a Pimms Afternoon Tea and live big screen TV coverage of the Ascot Ladies Day races. There will be a charity raffle in aid of Keep The Beat and a chance to win a prize for the best hat!

www.pumahotels.co.uk

www.34windsorst.com

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NATIONAL THEATRE PRESENTS

ONE MAN, TwO GuvNORS

dIREcT fROM LONdON’S wEST ENd

TO kILL A MOckINGBIRd Adapted for the stage by Christopher Sergel Based on the novel by Harper Lee

HHHHH The Times

HHHHH Daily Express

MON 6 – SAT 11 OcT

MON 13 – SAT 18 OcT

THE BIRMINGHAM REPERTORy THEATRE PROducTION Of

fRI 17 OcT – SAT 8 NOv

HIccuP THEATRE PRESENT

PINOccHIO

THE SNOwMAN

A new verison by Michael Rosen

The stage show based upon the book by Raymond Briggs and the film directed by Dianne Jackson and produced by John Coates Music and Lyrics by Howard Blake

Music by

RichaRd RodgeRs oscaR hammeRstein ii Lindsay and RusseL cRouse

Lyrics by

Book By howaRd

Suggested by ‘The Trapp Family Singers’ By Maria Augusta Trapp

DirEcTED By PauL

wEd 12 – SuN 16 NOv

KeRRyson

fRI 28 NOv – SAT 17 JAN

wEd 10 dEc – SAT 3 JAN

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56 The Life and Times of Richard III Exhibition 2 – 5 July @ Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre & Country Park

An Indian Summer 23 – 29 June @ Cultural Quarter

Rutland CAMRA Beer Festival 26 – 28 June @ Rutland Museum

Leicester’s Vintage Festival 28 – 29 June @ Abbey Pumping Museum

Diversity and multiculturalism are two things that give Leicestershire its unique feel and this annual festival provides you with the chance to experience the wonderfully colourful and varied culture of India. With an enthralling mixture of film, music, dance, literature, talks, games, workshops, activities, exhibitions and of course some great food, there is guaranteed to be something for all ages and tastes.

A spread of 40 dark and light ales will be available at the fourth annual festival, along with real ciders, Perries, bottled beers and soft drinks ensuring that there is a drink to satisfy everyone’s needs. Entry is free all day Thursday and until 6pm on Friday and Saturday (£3 thereafter) and if the sun’s out, this will be one outdoor event you won’t want to miss this summer!

Abbey Pumping Museum marks the 50th anniversary of its closure as a Victorian sewagepumping station. The main event will be the steaming of all four of the museums massive beam engines, whilst other attractions on offer at the festival include vintage vehicles, live music, craft stalls and the chance to take a ride on the museum’s narrow gauge railway.

Find out more about the King found in the Leicester car park in this exhibition, detailing his life and his legacy by focusing on the art and literature that have helped to depict the notorious King and make him one of the most famous Kings in English history. And best of all it’s free!

www.abbeypumpingstation.org

www.bosworthbattlefield.com

www.indiansummer.org.uk

www.rutlandcamra.org.uk

Business Awards Highlight Leicestershire’s Success

Around 650 representatives from some of the region’s leading businesses gathered at the Maher Centre recently to celebrate the encouraging steps that Leicestershire continues to make at the annual Leicester Mercury Business Awards. The evening, which was organised by brand agency Champions (UK) plc, offered an enjoyable mix of delicious food and great entertainment alongside the prestigious awards themselves. Big winners on the night included

Stoneygate cycling shop Velobici who scooped Retail Business of the Year, Burbage restaurant 34 Windsor St who picked up the Sales & Marketing award and Urban Apothecary Ltd who were crowned the county’s New Business of the Year.

For a full list of winners and information on how to apply for next year’s Awards, go to www.leicestermercurybusinessawards.co.uk

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dluxe

Ladies LadiesDay Day at Leicester at Leicester racecourse racecourse

OUR OUR BUSINESS BUSINESS IN...

IN...

Carol Decker

R R E DECKE E DECKE CAROL CAROL

AW AW NIK KERSH NIK KERSH

CRY& CRY HUE &HUE

Carol Decker

LIVE RACING LIVE RACING

Saturday Saturday 5th July 5th is Ladies is Ladies Day at Day Leicester at Leicester Racecourse.

Racecourse.

Saturday 5th July isJuly Ladies Day at Leicester Racecourse stomers stomers enjoy aenjoy spectacular a spectacular day of day live racing of live racing and and top class topentertainment. class entertainment.

This is our biggest fixture of the year, when close to 10,000 customers enjoy a spectacular Come along Comefor along 9 hours for 9 of hours fun including of fun including a Fairground, a Fairground, Shopping Shopping Village,Village, awardsawards for thefor Best the Dressed Best Dressed Ladies Ladies and and day of80s live racing and class 2 hours2 of hours live music of live from music from pop 80s legends pop legends Caroletop Carole Decker, Decker, Nikentertainment.

Kershaw Nik Kershaw and Hue and & Hue Cry. & Cry. First race First approx. race approx.

2.15pm,2.15pm, last racelast approx. race approx.

5.35pm.5.35pm.

Music toMusic start approx. to start approx.

5.45pm.5.45pm.

Tickets are Tickets £25 are per £25 per person, under 18′s under free18′s of charge ofwhen charge accompanied when accompanied by an adult. by an adult.

Come along for 9 hours ofperson, fun including afree Fairground, Shopping Village, awards for the Best Dressed Ladies and 2 hours of live music from 80s pop legends Carole Decker, Nik Kershaw and Hue & Cry.

LEICESTER LEICESTER RACECOURSE RACECOURSE First race approx. 2.15pm, last race approx. 5.35pm. Music to start approx. 5.45pm. & CONFERENCE & CONFERENCE Tickets areCENTRE £25 CENTRE per person, under 18’s free of charge when accompanied by an adult.

The Racecourse, The Racecourse, Oadby, Oadby, Leicester Leicester LE2 4AL LE2 4AL T: 0116T:271 0116 6515 271 |6515 F: 0116 | F:271 0116 1746 271 1746 E: info@leicester-racecourse.com E: info@leicester-racecourse.com W: www.leicester-racecourse.com W: www.leicester-racecourse.com

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58 Flash Mob 3 July @ De Montfort Hall

Curve Turns Inside Out

If you go to one dance show in your life, make it this one! Flash Mob is a spectacular introduction to the wide and varied art of dance with a gourmet menu, comprised of, well, a little bit of everything. From Strictly to Street, Jazz to Jump Jive, the many worlds of dance collide in this amazing celebration of movement to music. Headliners include Kevin Clifton and Karen Hauer from Strictly Come Dancing, World Street Dance champions Flawless from Britain’s Got Talent, as well as Olivier nominated Tommy Franzen from So You Think You Can Dance. www.demontforthall.co.uk

Emergency 3 July @ The Y

This intimate event offers cabaret by candlelight as some of the region’s brightest emerging talent in theatre, dance, performance poetry, short film, music and comedy showcase their new work. Emergency is a one night only line up of six performances, all with the opportunity to offer feedback to individual artists and influence the direction of their future work. www.leicesterymca.co.uk

2014 saw the inaugural instalment of a brand new festival for the city in the form of Inside Out, which took place at Curve over 10 days this spring. It was the first major festival that the theatre has organised since opening five years ago and sought to celebrate the work of the East Midlands’ leading theatremakers through workshops and special performances of drama, dance, spoken word and music, as well offering emerging talent the opportunity to develop their skills.

To see what else is on at Curve this season go to www.curveonline.co.uk - Images by Pamela Raith www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

De Montfort Hall Leicester’s leading live entertainment venue

FLASH MOB Thu 3 Jul // £25 Children £15.50*

SCOOBY DOO THE MYSTERY OF THE PYRAMID Thu 10 - Sun 13 Jul // £19.50 Children £14.50*

AN EVENING WITH AGGERS AND SUNNY Sat 6 Sep // £22

THE WEST END EXPERIENCE Wed 17 Sep // £22.50*

LEVEL 42 Mon 6 Oct // £27

MNOZIL BRASS Fri 17 Oct // £25*

Box Office 0116 233 3111 Web demontforthall.co.uk Twitter @demontforthall

STARRING ASA ELLIOTT FROM ITV’S BENIDORM

WITH THE VOICE’S SALLY BARKER

SIMON SAYS… Sat 26 & Sun 27 Jul £25 Under 16 £20 Under 10 £2

LEE MACK Fri 19 – Mon 22 Sep £27.50

JUSTIN LIVE Sun 19 Oct // £15 £16.50

£3 transaction fee payable per booking. *Concessions and/or group booking discount available

www.visitleicester.info

60 Annie 26 July – 10 August @ Curve

West is Best!

Director Paul Kerryson continues this season with his take on the Tony Award Winning musical Annie, the infamous story of a young girl attempting to escape poverty through the Millionaire Mr Warbucks. This play has stood the test of time and is good entertainment for the entire family, who still love to watch the loveable girl escape the evil Miss Hannigan. www.curveonline.co.uk

Rent 31 July – 1 August & 4 – 7 August @ Curve

Braunstone Gate’s first ever festival of music and arts was a huge success, with Westival’s carnival atmosphere drawing crowds in the region of 8,000 over the course of the all day event. Proceedings started at midday with a full schedule of musical acts ranging from steel bands and reggae DJs to a gospel choir. The street also saw 30 market stalls selling jewellery, gifts, handicrafts along with a range of locally produced food & drink. As day turned to night the action switched to Braunstone Gate’s bars and eateries with venues such as O Bar, Natterjacks and The Toucan hosting live music way into the small hours.

For more information visit www.facebook.com/WestivalUK or follow @WestivalUK on Twitter. - Images by James Took

Hot Air Balloon and Jazz Night 4 July 2014 @ Kelmarsh Hall

Simon Says 26 – 27 July @ De Montfort Hall

Caribbean Carnival 2 August @ Victoria Park

Leicester will once again be turning into a riot of colour this year as the 29th annual Leicester Caribbean Carnival comes to town with the theme of ‘A Celebration of Nelson Mandela’. The Carnival is always a hugely popular multicultural event, aiming to celebrate all the diverse cultures in Leicester while keeping the cultural traditions of the Caribbean alive. It is the largest multicultural event in the East Midlands with an estimated 20,000 people attending!

Celebrations begin with the official Opening Ceremony on Victoria Park followed by the vibrant Street Carnival all the way into the city centre, which will feature troupes and floats decked out in magnificent costumes. www.leicestercarnival.com

After the raging success of last year’s community production of Sweeney Todd, Curve are inviting the people of Leicester to get involved in a new production of the smash-hit rock musical Rent.

Set in the struggling Lower East Side of New York City, this prizewinning musical follows the highs and lows of filmmaker Mark and his artist friends over the space of one year as they fight to keep the bohemian spirit alive.

Sister Act 26 August – 21 September @ Kilworth House Theatre

www.curveonline.co.uk

Grab your picnic hamper, roll up the rug and get over to Kelmarsh Hall for a wonderful evening of summer entertainment this July.

Weather permitting; you’ll be able to witness a cluster of hot air balloons taking over beyond the lake, all whilst enjoying some great jazz from The Ginger Pig Band plus a very special guest, all the way from The Big Easy itself, New Orleans. A pay bar will be available on the night.

Returning to Leicester for its second year at De Montfort Hall, Simon Says provides a stage for local talent, with nationally recognised acts complementing the line-up. Headlined by The South, with a bill that features By The Rivers, The DTs, Vibronics, Kingsize, Pressure Tenants and Hells Addiction amongst others, you simply have to be in Leicester this weekend. With action taking place across De Montfort Hall’s gardens as well as the iconic hall itself.

www.kelmarsh.com

www.demontforthall.co.uk

FOR EXCLUSIVE OFFERS, NEWS & COMPETITIONS. SIGN UP TO THE DLUXE NEWSLETTER AT: WWW.DLUXEMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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Based on the unforgettable and hilarious hit film, the musical follows Deloris Van Cartier after she witnesses a murder and is hidden in a convent by protective custody, disguising herself as a nun. This award winning show is known for it’s upbeat lively music and Kilworth House’s outdoor theatre provides the perfect setting for an evening of fantastic entertainment! www.kilworthhousetheatre.co.uk

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Lamborghini in Leicester

Barnum 5 – 13 September @ Curve Leicester

A new benchmark in luxury super sports cars has been set with the official opening of the new Lamborghini showroom in Leicester this spring, expanding the UK network to seven dealerships. Over 300 guests attended the launch event, which included a presentation of the new Lamborghini Huracán 610-4, the car unveiled to the world at the Geneva Motor Show as the replacement for the immensely successful Gallardo.

Lamborghini Leicester is @ Watermead Business Park, Syston, LE7 1PF. Tel: 0116 319 3965 www.sytner.co.uk/lamborghini/leicester

City Festival 16- 25 August @ City Centre

Acting as the grand finale to Summer in the City, Leicester will once again welcome the City Festival as it returns for its triumphant second year. Venues and sites all across Leicester will be buzzing with activity for all the family, including well-established favourites like Leicester Belgrave Mela alongside exciting new events such as the Old Town Festival. The City Festival is a great local event that promises to be even bigger this year, whilst still emphasising the importance of community, making it perfect for all ages. www.visitleicester.info

Leicester Pride 30 August @ Victoria Park

Rutland Food Festival 13 September @ Rutland Water

This exhilarating musical follows the irrepressible imagination and dreams of Phineas T Barnum, America’s Greatest Showman. The story of his life and his marriage to Chairy reveals a couple who looked at the world from opposite sides of the spectrum, and also reveals that she was the practical one who made his dreams come true. The show details the legendary showman’s life as he endeavoured to light up the world with colour, warmth and the excitement of his imagination. www.curveonline.co.uk

Lee Mack 19 – 22 September @ De Montfort Hall

Leicester’s annual Lesbian, Gay Bisexual and Transgender Festival is set to hit Victoria Park once again this summer.

Celebrating diversity and freedom, Pride includes a range of market stalls and is sure to be an incredibly vibrant event that welcomes all walks of life with open arms.

This year the fifth Rutland Food and Drink Festival will be a part of Rutland Day this year. There will be a wide variety of local producers on hand to sell their goods, as well as local chefs on the cookery stage to inspire you with new and fun recipe ideas for you to try at home, as well as cook offs for chefs to prove themselves!

For the first time in four years, funny man Lee Mack is going on tour with ‘Hit The Road Mack’, his side-splittingly funny contribution to the world of comedy. Full of one liners and cutting remarks, Lee Mack is sure to live up to his previous tours and his huge following’s expectations.

www.leicesterpride.com

www.discover-rutland.co.uk

www.demontforthall.co.uk

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PAPERWORK Pensions Overhaul Means More Flexibility

T

he biggest pensions overhaul in decades means more flexibility for retirees, according to Newby Castleman (Financial Services) Limited, which is offering jargonbusting advice to those currently saving for their retirement.

Following George Osborne’s revolutionary plans to overhaul the annuity market – the annual retirement income that is paid to pensioners for the rest of their lives – the Leicester-based firm says retirees will now have more choice when it comes to pension pots.

Previously, many individuals’ only realistic option was to purchase an annuity from an insurance company using the pension pot they have built up during their working life.

Matt Raine, Financial Adviser at Newby Castleman (Financial Services) Limited, comments: “George Osborne is revolutionising the way we think about, plan for and draw our pension benefits. Annuities are generally seen by the public as giving poor value, inflexible and a disincentive to funding a pension plan for retirement. However, unless an individual’s pension fund was either very small or very large, annuities were the only realistic option and are currently purchased by 75% of the retiring population.

The Government’s desire is to allow individuals to make their own decisions on how to access their pension savings, which will hopefully encourage pension saving in the future.”

THE FACTS:

Assuming the changes come into effect on 6th April 2015, regardless of the size of your pension pot (subject to the Lifetime Allowance), you will be able to draw whatever level of pension you like, when you like (from age 55), subject to Income Tax at your marginal rate. This is basically Flexible Drawdown but with no minimum income test.

From 27/03/14:

There have always been common objections to pensions saving, such as concerns from retirees that their money is locked in and they will never get it all out before they die. However, many thousands of retirees will now be able to commute their pension pots for a lump sum (25% tax free) and no one need purchase an annuity unless they choose to do so.

Reduction in ‘minimum income requirement’ to qualify for Flexible Drawdown from £20K to £12 p.a.

With the freedom to withdraw your pension savings at whatever level you deem appropriate it once again becomes ‘your money’, you are in control. It also puts pension contributions back on the agenda as an attractive form of tax planning.

Matt Raine offers personalised financial advice based on individual needs and circumstances.

For more information call Matt on 0116 254 9262 or email him at mor@newbyc. co.uk. Alternatively visit the website at www.newbycastleman.co.uk

The long-standing principle that the pension pot must be capable of providing a pension for life will be swept away in favour of a more flexible regime, allowing individuals to access their pension benefits after the age of 55 how they wish and without limit on the amount that can be drawn out. In this way, the entire pension pot can be extinguished in the member’s lifetime.

HERE COMES THE BOOM

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2014 is set to herald a new ‘golden era’ for anyone planning to invest in buy-to-let schemes according to housing expert Ian Samuels. Ian, who runs The Property Investor and is also a published author, specialises in advising others on how best to invest in bricks and mortar and believes that despite the fact that house prices remain out of reach for many, they will never be this low again.

With Britain enjoying it’s “postrecession” position, a huge property boom is expected between 2018 and 2020 that could see house prices across the country rise by 25 per cent if the market continues its current upwards

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Increase in maximum Income Drawdown from 120% to 150% of basis annuity rate.

Increase from £18K to £30K on total pension funds which can be commuted.

From 06/04/15: Regardless of the size of your pension pot (subject to Lifetime Allowance) you will be able to draw whatever level of pension you like, when you like (from age 55), subject to Income Tax at your marginal rate. This is basically Flexible Drawdown but with no minimum income test.

(For those people on Income Drawdown no more limiting your pension solely by reference to yields on Government gilts and if you are in a property based SSAS or SIPP no revaluation of the property every three years).

trajectory, making now the perfect time to invest in property in order to reap the financial reward in coming years.

Ian blames bad publicity surrounding banks, investment and pension schemes for a lack of confidence and knowledge when it comes to people investing their money.

As well as being fueled by Britain’s increasing population, lack of affordable housing and “backlog” of first-time buyers now getting on the property ladder, the anticipated boom is likely to be driven by pensioners, looking to escape poor-value pensions by investing in property instead.

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The Leicestershire Law Society held their annual dinner at the Athena recently; a night that also included the presentation of the top prizes for the county’s legal professionals: The Legal Awards 2014.

With so much legal talent on offer in Leicestershire and Rutland the Society was inundated with very worthy candidates, but it was Emma Mitchell, family law specialist and partner at Emery Johnson Astills who walked away with one of the most highly coveted awards, having been crowned Solicitor of the Year 2014.

Emma is regularly praised by clients for her perceptive, understanding and sensitive approach to her work and is a strong advocate of alternative dispute resolution. She is heavily involved with collaborative law and has been instrumental in forging links with other lawyers and raising the profile of this work locally.

Over the course of the last year, Emma has taken on a wide and varied number of cases, advising everyone from members of the travelling community to a transgender father with sensitivity and high levels of professionalism.

The Leicestershire Law Society’s core aim is to promote Leicester as a centre of legal excellence, counting around 500 of the Leicestershire and Rutland’s solicitors as members, as well as a rapidly increasing number of associate members from sets of Barristers Chambers.

To book a fixed fee consultation with the Solicitor of the Year, call 0116 255 4855. Emery Johnson Astills have three branches across Leicestershire, to find your nearest go to www.johnsonastills.com

COLLEGE COURT RENOVATION NETS AWARDS A project to transform a former University Halls of Residence into a state-of-the-art conference facility and Hotel has won an award recognising the highest standards of restoration and renovation of buildings in the East Midlands as well as a hattrick of awards including ‘Building of the Year’ at the RIBA East Midlands awards. £17.5m was invested in College Court on Knighton Road, which opened on the 1st October 2013, in order to turn the University’s Grade II listed College Hall buildings into a leading residential conference venue housing 18 conference rooms, 123 en suite bedrooms, a restaurant, bar, private dining room and garden lounge.

The refurbishment was designed by Associated Architects of Birmingham and constructed by Wilmott Dixon, with the new designs meeting with the approval of one of the building’s original architects, Trevor Dannatt.

The University of Leicester’s College Court Conference Centre and Hotel Project won the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors East Midlands Regional Award for Building Conservation Project of the Year, with members of the University’s Division of Estates and Facilities Management and the College Court Management team picking up the award from ITV weather presenter Emma Jesson at a ceremony in May this year.

The refurbishment not only breathes life into a set of Grade II listed buildings that have been dormant for eight years, but will also generate extra revenue for the University and the city of Leicester as a whole.

College Court Conference Centre is @ Knighton Road, Leicester, LE2 3UF. Tel: 0116 244 9669 www.collegecourt.co.uk www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

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SOLICITOR OF THE YEAR ANNOUNCED

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THE KUBE RACES INTO LEICESTER A new exhibtion centre has been launched by the team at Leicester Racecourse, already well know for the high quality conferencing facilities on offer. The KUBE, created on the former site of The Chase Hotel offers a fully tailorable exhibition space. The flexible 700 square metre space , one of the largest in Leicestershire, features a useful 6 metre ceiling height as well as full vehicle access and catering facilities. There’s also the option to attach a full marquee onto the side of exhibition hall effectovely doubling the capacity.

LOCAL BUSINESS STRIDES OUT FOR CHARITY Zeffy Thompson and Lisa Salter of Burbage restaurant 34 Windsor St took on the infamous Wolf Run to raise over £1,000 for a local charity supporting children with Congenital Heart Defects.

The pair, who ran in the 10km off-road event that included obstacles both man-made and natural, raised over £1,000 for KEEPTHEBEAT, a local Burbage charity that is close to everyone’s hearts. The charity was started by village parents Adam & Annita Tansey who watched their son Albert undergo lifesaving operations at an early age, and now provides support to other families experiencing similar challenges.

Zeffy said “Everyone in Burbage has been affected

by Albert Tansey’s story. We chose The Wolf Run because it was going to be very challenging but it is nothing compared to what these parents and children go through every day. We raised some money and awareness PLUS it helped keep our own hearts healthy.”

For more information please visit www.34windsorst.com, @34WindsorSt on Twitter, search 34 Windsor St on Facebook or call 01455 234342 for a reservation.

For information on KEEPTHEBEAT visit keepthebeat.co.uk, @keepthebeatuk on Twitter.

LABA HOSTS INTERNATIONAL MILITARY VIP VISITORS The Leicester Asian Business Association hosted a dinner for visiting army VIPS from around the world.

The visit was organised by the Cabinet Office as part of the Defence Academy, the internationally renowned Royal College of Defence Studies. The College prepares senior officers and official of the UK and other countries, and future leaders from private and public sectors, for high responsibilities in their respective organisations, by developing their analytical powers, knowledge of defence and international security, and strategic vision.

The course builds up to demanding study visits of countries in different regions of the world. Before the members are asked to examine the prospects for these countries, they are given the opportunity to look objectively at the UK. Each tour consists of some 17 members and one or two staff, including the tour leader. The majority of the tour party will be from overseas.

“was to examine, at first hand and from a strategic perspective, the prospects for the stability, security and prosperity of the United Kingdom”. Mr Dholakia led a presentation on the role of LABA and the increasingly important role British Asian business communities play as economic drivers for the UK plc in terms of; business growth, job creation, international trade and inward investment.

The aim of the visit said Uday Dholakia, Chairman of LABA

To find out more visit www.labauk.org

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The new venue is sure to prove a hit with those wanting to host high profile events and exhibitions in the East Midlands and is complemented by the race courses existing extensive conference facilities and over 2000 free parking spaces within minutes of the city centre.

The Kube is just another part of Leicester Racecourse’s continued development of its 210 acre site.

Future plans include a dedicated business centre, the reopening of the Oadby Golf Course with improved club house and new driving range alongside the possibility of hotel and spa facilties.

To find out more about The Kube call Diana Wilder on 0116 2716515 or visit www.leicester-racecourse.co.uk

The

Kube CONFERENCES

EXHIBITIONS

PRODUCT LAUNCHES

EVENTS

Tailor made for your event In June 2014 Leicester Racecourse opened a brand new events space aptly named The KUBE, a cube shaped building that measures 700msq and can accommodate up to 650 cabaret style, in excess of 1000 theatre style and unlimited for exhibitions.

The KUBE is a blank canvas and can be tailored to each clients needs and is a dedicated event ‘space’ benefits from free parking for up to 2000 vehicles.

We are confident of offering you everything you need to stage the perfect occasion.

After all, we are fully aware that our success is determined by the success of your event.

To find out more call: 0116 271 9480 Or e-mail: thekube@leicester-racecourse.com

The Kube Leicester Racecourse Co. Ltd, Leicester Road, Oadby, Leicester LE2 4AL t: 0116 271 9480 www.leicester-racecourse.com

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Lessons From AUSCHWITZ 74 years after the Nazi concentration camp that would claim the lives of 1.2 million victims was established, the chilling past of Auschwitz-Birkenau continues to hold a permanent place in our nation’s collective memory. dluxe LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND’s Jon Fraser took part in a project aimed at ensuring that future generations never forget.

The idea that there is in existence a place where 1.2 million people were systematically murdered, sometimes in figures of up to 10,000 people per day just seems impossible, a myth. It is for this reason that the Lessons From Auschwitz was formed. Working with schools, colleges and communities across the UK, the project plays a crucial role in bringing knowledge of Auschwitz-Birkenau’s haunting reality to a new generation so as to ensure that the terrible injustice millions suffered is never forgotten.

For the last fifteen years more than 22,000 students have been given the opportunity to visit the Second World War death camp to gain an insight into the horrors of what happened there and see the real life remnants its victims left behind. The hope is that they move forward acting as ambassadors, sharing their experiences and empowering them to speak out against injustice within their own communities.

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from the UK to Poland you can’t help but think of the terrifying journey others made all those years ago. Our party is made up of a mixture of teenagers, teachers and eductaors from the Trust. Our visit starts in the nearby town of Oswiecim, a place where the Jewish population made up almost 48% of the town, today that number is 0%. The holocaust created a void both in terms of the community and its culture. The main Synagogue, renowned for its beauty, is no more and the one remaining small worship space is maintained and kept open by nonJewish volunteers, an active rebellion by the town’s inhabitants against the Nazis intent to turn communities against each other.

A short drive back across the river and the Auschwitz 1 is suddenly upon you, located right on the main road. The camp itself was used primarily for political prisoners and today serves as a museum to the atrocities of all three Auschwitz camps. Converted from former Army Barracks the horrors of Auschwitz 1 are hidden by the pleasantness of its location. As the sun shines down the camp’s grass glows a healthy green and purple buddleia sways gently in the breeze beside well-ordered and attractive dormitory buildings. It is only the occasional thunderous shake in the sky that serves as a reminder to what really happened here.

The students and I are escorted round the main camp buildings and given an insight into the workings of the camp by our own guide.

This is a museum of hate, torture, sadness and the destruction of hope.

Our collective breath is taken away by the rooms piled high to the rafters with shoes, shaving brushes and suitcases, each one labelled with a name and address by owners who hoped to be reunited with their belongngs once more. From here you are taken directly into perhaps the most shocking display and the most unnerving www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

experience of my life. One very long room contains the hair of over 140,000 victims, greyed with age, plaits intact and tied with grubby ribbon. The hair was shorn from the dead bodies of murdered victims and woven into cloth to make army blankets, U Boat socks and was even used within the German car industry.

The mood amongst the students is now almost unbearably tense. Many wipe tears from their eyes whilst others walk around this gristly exhibition in a trancelike state; how could this be real? How could people do this to people?

We climb back onto our coach but this time there is no chatter. A short drive takes us to Auschwitz Bikinheau, a purpose built killing factory surrounded by open fields and forests. Here up to 10,000 people a day were murdered and cremated in a production line of death. Jews, gypsies, homosexuals, anyone who did not fit the Nazi ideal was destroyed without emotion. One of the main things that strikes you about Auschwitz Birkinheau is just how huge it is and walking alongside the train track that brought prisoners directly into the camp, we follow their footsteps in silence to what remains of the camp’s two main gas chambers. It is here that the reality and the scale of what happened here hits every one of us. Lighting a candle just doesn’t seem enough yet if we were to offer just a minutes silence for each one of the victims of Auschwitz, we would need to remain mute for over two years.

Staying silent about the atrocities of this place is not an option though. Witnesses are invested with the responsibility to deliver a powerful message about what happened here during the Holocaust to keep the memories of the victims and the injustice committed against them alive in the minds of all generations. This can’t happen again, none of us can let it.

The Holocaust Educational Trust is actively looking for schools and teaching staff to participate in the Lessons from Auschwitz project.

To find out more visit www.het.org.uk To see more images from this trip visit www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

Would you like to meet our team of friendly advisors and foster carers over a hot drink and some biscuits?

Evening Events: Thursday 19 June, Tuesday 22 July or Wednesday 27 August.

Drop in anytime between 5pm and 7pm (no need to book) to St Martins House (next door to the cathedral), 7 Peacock Lane, Leicester, Leiceste LE1 5PZ.

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AVAILABLE IN OUR LEICESTER STORE CRUISE LEICESTER 12/14 EAST GATES, LEICESTER, LE1 4FB 08433 325 388