Issue 14 - Autumn 2013

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FRANCE TRAVEL SPECIAL

WIN!

a GRAND DESIGNS weekend

DRIVEN: A LOOK AT THE NEW

AUDI A3 SALOON

Get the look:

are you

AW13

MAN ENOUGH?

BIKRAM

FOR

TRENDS

BOYS

YOUR COMPLIMENTARY COPY

WWW.DLUXE-MAGAZINE.CO.UK www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

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dluxe contents

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FINALIST OF THE

BEST SALON DESIGN 2013

10 Allandale Road, Stoneygate, Leicester. LE2 2DA 0116 270 7444 www.cwhair.co.uk www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

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ditor’s Letter

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hat a summer! It may not have been filled with the Olympic glories of 2012 but 2013 has given us our fair share of sunshine enabling us to make the very most of the great outdoors. The dluxe team have fully embraced the change in climate, both at home and abroad, by embarking upon a summer filled with festivals and glamping with even Teddy, the office dog, making use of the pet passport scheme for a fun filled week of swimming in the Dordogne. (see our French Travel Special on page 50)

dressing, furnishing our homes and spending time with friends and family and within this issue you’ll find our guide to how to make the transition with style!

Our lead interview is with a true national treasure. Star of stage and screen Sian Phillips talks to us about her role in Alan Bennett’s ‘People’, a play coming to Curve that examines our relation with our own national treasures.

For the fashionistas amongst us there’s an overview of this season’s key trends along with a guide on how to incorporate them into your wardrobe along with beauty for ladies and good grooming for the gentlemen.

As I write this the sun is still streaming through our office windows, yet the long term weather forecasts predict a thankfully dry yet colder than average autumn and winter. A new season brings with it a new way of living,

For the family there’s a host of activities, details about the county’s best school’s open days and some tasty recipes for cosy family teas after the obligatory walk amidst the autumn leaves.

So pop the kettle on, check the central heating’s kicked in, sit back and relax with this new edition of dluxe.

Jonathan Fraser Editor

www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

ISSUE 14 AUTUMN 2013 - 15 -

vive la

FRANCE TRAVEL SPECIAL

WIN!

a GRAND DESIGNS weekend

DRIVEN: A LOOK AT THE NEW

c -4-

ontents Check out our AW13 trends in dluxe for him on p36.

08 dluxe Wish List…

AUDI A3

A round up of all things

fabulous for the new season.

SALOON

Get the look:

are you

AW13

MAN ENOUGH?

BIKRAM

FOR

TRENDS

BOYS

16 dluxe Spotlight… We talk to national treasure Sian Phillips, star of Stage and Screen and soon to appear in Alan Bennett’s People.

20 dluxe Home… A look at how to make the most of your home before the dark nights set in. Let’s get cosy!

YOUR COMPLIMENTARY COPY

WWW.DLUXE-MAGAZINE.CO.UK

30 dluxe For Her… Trend Report. Time to sort out that wardrobe and make away for the latest trends, are you more Church or Rebel?

www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

COVER IMAGE COURTESY OF: RADLEY

36 dluxe For Him… Boys don’t escape the change in trends, our guide for get ups for guys.

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

42 dluxe Family…

The dluxe team have gone back to school and looked at some of the county’s finest schools and upcoming open days. We may have got excited about Halloween too…

GROUP EDITOR IN CHIEF Jonathan Fraser Jon@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk

46 dluxe Paperwork…

East meets East, how Leicester is embracing the benefits of a multi-cultural marketplace.

CREATIVE MANAGER Mike Raven Mike@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk

50 dluxe Travel Special… It all seems so far away, but this issue the dluxe team visited France on mass.

Here’s our guide on where to go and how to get there.

58 dluxe Diary… Who was where, when and why as well as a sneak peak at what’s coming up in the region.

STAFF WRITER Matt Blackwell Matt@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk

66 dluxe Last Word…

City Mayor, Sir Peter Soulsby, talks about uncovering Leicester’s hidden gems through appropriate planning.

MARKETING Caroline Spence Caroline@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk

ADVERTISING SALES David Leach-Davis David@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk

ADVERTISING SALES Lilith Hunt-Sheppard Lilith@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk

For Editorial and Advertising Enquiries dluxe LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND 59 Friar Lane, Leicester, LE1 5RB Tel: 0116 262 0728 Email: info@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk Web: www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk dluxemagazine

HEAD OF FLUFFINESS Teddy Teddy@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk

dluxemag

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 2013.

www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

15 offices

selling across the UK Ashby-de-la-Zouch 01530 412821 | www.fishergerman.co.uk

Ashby-de-la-Zouch stunning Georgian residence offering impressive accommodation • • • • • • • •

abundance of period features 4/5 reception rooms 7 bedrooms, 6 shower/bathrooms mature gardens with outdoor pool private gated driveway lovely countryside views Grade II Listed guide price £995,000

15 offices

selling across the UK Market Harborough 01858 410200 | www.fishergerman.co.uk

an exceptional period property in delightful gardens • • • • • • •

Grade II Listed 4 reception rooms in total 6 bedrooms attached annexe garaging and workshop beautiful large gardens guide price £795,000

Ashby Parva, Leicestershire a beautifully presented modern family home • • • • • • • • •

4 reception rooms Amdega orangery kitchen/breakfast room 6 bedrooms 4 bathrooms gymnasium, garaging beautifully landscaped gardens EPC rating D guide price £950,000

Stanford-upon-Avon, Northamptonshire spacious property with outbuildings and land • • • • • • • •

breakfast kitchen and family room 5 bedrooms garaging stabling warehouse approx 7.6 acres EPC rating D guide price £750,000

Stoney Stanton, Leicestershire

Ben Longstaff

Dawn Wood

Joy Brankin-Frisby

Alasdair Dunne

sold stc

Getaways Fit For A King.

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xcitement hit fever pitch in spring with the University of Leicester’s announcement that they had uncovered a King in the car park and even now the debate rages on as to where Richard III’s remains should be buried and will go to judicial review later this year. The buzz shows no signs of dying down either with the last Plantagenet King set to play a significant part in Leicester’s bid to become City of Culture 2017 and now these; exclusive Richard III short breaks.

Starting at £79 for a couple or £89 for two adults and two children, inquisitive visitors can uncover the mysteries of Richard III’s final days and learn about the discovery of his remains in a city break package that includes a night at a three or four star city hotel, a guided (or self-guided, it’s up to you) walk before visiting the Guildhall’s interactive exhibition. Alternatively, if you’re looking to escape the bright city lights, why not opt for a country break, which gives you the option of a night the Hinckley Island Hotel and includes entry to Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre and Donington le Heath Manor.

For more information on the short breaks or to make a booking visit www.goleicestershire. com/RichardIII or drop into Visit Leicester @ 51 Gallowtree Gate, Leicester

WISHLIST www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

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dluxe wishlist

JEANNE OF OADBY TURNS 50!

Celebrating 50 years of trading this year, Jeanne of Oadby was established in 1963 and has been catering for the individual lady who wants to look good throughout the year since day one.

Perfectly blending the current trends in quality ladies fashion with a good old-fashioned approach to service, whether it’s smart/casual or a special event (Mother of the Bride or Prom Dress for example), Jeanne of Oadby has styles, in sizes 10 to 26, for every occasion. Add to this a wide range of accessories including handbags, hats, shoes and jewellery and you’ve got an establishment that really provides a complete service.

So be sure to pop in, the coffee pot will always be on and you’re sure of a warm and friendly welcome from Penny and her staff!

Jeanne of Oadby is @ 4-6 Chapel Street, Oadby, Leicester LE2 5AD. Tel: 0116 271 4430

Nestled in the leafy suburb of Stoneygate is one of Leicester’s brightest success stories, Christopher Wright Hair. The Allandale Road salon has a well-earned reputation for creativity and has successfully beaten off stiff competition from around the UK to make the finals of the Salon Design Award at The British Hairdressing Business Awards 2013. Christopher and his team will be flying the Midlands flag as the only regional salon to make it through in the category and will be judged against six other hopefuls at a swanky awards ceremony.

Local salon wins national recognition!

Artistic Director Christopher Wright saw a change in partnership as the perfect opportunity to give the salon a glamorous makeover in an understated ultra-chic monochrome palette that is complemented by panoramic mirrors and glass. Featuring Leicester’s only true Style Bar, where clients can drop in with or without an appointment for a blow dry or to get their nails done.

Upstairs in the main salon is a plush and luxurious temple to hair generating the sensation of an exclusive spa where ‘everything can wait’.

The new salon’s success is evident in the company’s takings. Despite the tough economic climate the new-look salon has actually seen the business grow over the past 12 months thanks in large part to the maximisation of the salon’s retail space in addition to the new services.

With award worthy design, Christopher Wright is undoubtedly one of the city’s most luxurious salons and well worth a visit.

Christopher Wright is @ 10 Allandale Road, Stoneygate, Leicester, LE2 2DA. Tel: 0116 270 7444

www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

[RUSH]

Our Hot Pick!

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From two-time Oscar winner Ron Howard (A Beautiful Mind, Apollo 13) comes this thrilling biopic about the rivalry between drivers Niki Lauda and James Hunt during the 1976 Formula One season. Hunt the charismatic Englishman and Lauda the meticulous Austrian clash on and off the track, but after Lauda suffers a near-fatal crash a respect develops that lets them concentrate on racing. Howard excels at intelligent entertainment and Rush will appeal both to fans of motorsport and those new to this gripping story.

Showing Fri 27 Sep – Thu 10 Oct at the Phoenix. Tel. 0116 242 2800 or book online www.phoenix.org.uk

A mammoth networking and business seminar event is coming to Leicester on the 3rd October.

The Leicester Business Event 2013, set to be held at the Tigers Stadium, is aimed at everyone from small independent retailers to large advisory businesses and will feature an exclusive Q&A networking afternoon tea event, with a panel of business professionals as well as a series of seminars focussing on a number of different topics.

For more information or to pre-register visit www.leicesterbusinessevents.co.uk

OPENING DOORS FOR LEICESTER BUSINESSES

Must See!

CANK STREET

CROCHETS

Hidden in the heart of the city you’ll find a collection of animals not normally found in Leicester. If our description seems a little woolly (!) then let us elaborate: 33 Cank Street is a temporary public art installation created by artist Shauna Richardson and designed as a giant diorama for her realistic life-size taxidermy-style animal sculptures created using crochet, a unique body of work she calls Crochetdermy.

The collection has been designed to be viewed 24 hours a day through the windows of 33 Cank Street and St Martins and offers an eerie yet unmissable experience for passers-by.

To find out more visit www.shaunarichardson.com www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

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dluxe wishlist

Grey is big news this Autumn. Whether it’s in fashion or in movies, everyone is talking about the shade that used to symbolize the dull and the lifeless and that now just says sexy. The designers choice, based on the Autumn Winter catwalk shows, this season’s fascination with grey has coincided with the casting of Charlie Hunnam and Dakota Johnson as the lead characters in the film adaptation of the steamy bestseller ’50 Shades of Grey’.

Christopher Scotney, who owns the mens’ designerwear store on London Road, Leicester advises “Grey is the colour to coordinate with this season. Easier on the fairer complexion than black but providing a neutral canvas, grey is perfect to combine with this season’s key accent colours of claret, teal and mustard.” Get Christian Grey’s smooth, groomed look AND be on trend with this Hugo Boss suit (Price £599) from Christopher Scotney.

Christopher Scotney, 132 London Road, Leicester. LE2 1EB www.christopherscotney.co.uk

GREY BY NAME, GREY BY NATURE

LANES FINE JEWELLERY Diamond Specialist & Fine Jewellery Boutique Certificated Diamonds | Loose Diamond Stockist | Bespoke Service Engagement Rings | Wedding Rings | Eternity Rings Raum fŸr Ihr Logo/Adresse Space for your logo /address Luxury Watch Sourcing Espace pour votre logo/adresse Spazio per il vostro logo/indirizzo

25 LOSEBY LANE, LEICESTER LE1 5DR | LANESJEWELLERS.COM | 0116 251 2529

www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

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BATHROOM bliss

The dluxe team love a good pamper session so the indulgent Soothing Set for Her essential oil body wash collection and luxurious shower puff has gone down a treat! This aromatic set adds an air of luxury to your morning shower thanks to its blend of essential oils designed to put you in the right mood for the day ahead.

We also love that the brand has been certified by Cruelty-Free International, been approved by the Vegan and the Vegetarian Society and comes in recyclable packaging too meaning all that luxury is guilt free!

Available exclusively in Leicestershire from Fenwick Department Store, Market Street the Soothing Set for Her is priced at just £18.99

Let There Be Light Ever craved the sophisticated lighting systems you’ve seen on the interior design shows? Well the new range of Hue wireless LED bulbs from Phillips may well be just what you’re looking for thanks to their ability to recreate any colour in the spectrum and operated by your iPhone OR iPad. The LED technology inside every Hue wireless LED bulb is a little bit special and they couldn’t be easier to install. Just pick the lights or lamps you want to give the Hue makeover and screw the wireless bulbs in. Then connect the Hue ‘bridge’ to your wireless network, download the free app and turn the light switch on, so there’s electricity running to the bulb, and you’re all done. It really is that simple.

You can use the app to capture the colours from any photo on your phone. Simply drag the pointer to a colour in your photo and the Hue bulb will change to that colour straight away. You can create multiple saved lighting schemes to choose from depending on your mood and even control them from outside the home.

The Office

Must Have!

The Philips Hue starter pack includes the ‘bridge’ and three bulbs and costs £179.95 from any Apple store.

www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

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[A Capital Idea!]

With summer holidays behind us, autumn lends itself perfectly to the minibreak.

A bustling weekend away exploring the cultural highlights of a European city can put a halt to the winter blues but why not rediscover our own capital city and enjoy a break in London?

After all, when was the last time you visited The National Gallery, took an open top bus or watched the changing of the guards? We thought so!

Start as you mean to go on by booking a stay at one of London’s most legendary addresses; Baker Street. The Park Plaza Sherlock Holmes, a short walk from Madame Tussauds and Oxford Street, strikes the right balance between the traditional trappings of a London hotel with modern convenience and contemporary design. We stayed in one of the hotel’s well appointed, bright and airy duplex suites which, thanks to its separate living space and mezzanine bedroom, made it the perfect place to plan and enjoy a weekend of exploration.

The Park Plaza Sherlock Holmes restaurant also features its own bistro style grill restaurant that specialises in fresh, informal food with a modernday twist. We enjoyed the Casterbridge Rib eye steak, cooked and rested well and served with sautéed spinach and potatoes and Sea Bass cooked with fennel and served with a medley of tomatoes and basil. Perfect.

Browns Lingerie Leicester is one of the Midlands’ exclusive stockists of designer lingerie from la Perla, Elle Macpherson Pleasure State, Marie Jo, Prima Donna and Stella McCartney.

Browns is the perfect place to pick up a special gift with fabulous Fitting Lingerie, in sizes 28-44 A-H cups, providing great customer service and a friendly shopping experience.

With free Gift-wrapping what more could you ask for?

Browns Lingerie & Beachwear Boutique 35 Francis Street, Stoneygate, Leicester, LE2 2BE Tel: 0116 270 7188 www.BrownsLingerie.co.uk

Rooms at the Park Plaza Sherlock Holmes start from £159 per night.

For more information visit www.parkplazasherlockholmes.com

Going Like Hot Cakes!

We love a good bake-a-thon and Dualit’s long-awaited Stand Mixer is the perfect companion. A dizzying array of attachments and 12 speeds to play with ensure that whether it’s bothersome bread doughs or maladroit meringues, your baked beauties should turn out perfect every time!

Available from John Lewis for £299.95

www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

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Designer Lingerie and Expert Service

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hen it comes to searching out the unusual and the unique, Leicestershire residents are spoilt for choice thanks to the varied range of independent retailers that have chosen to open their doors in the county. The joys of shopping not only locally but independently is that you actively enhance the area in which you live; employment rises, streets look smarter thanks to added investment and by adding to the bodies that bustle around our streets you encourage others to do the same. It’s not all about being worthy though. Most independent stores benefit from being more in touch with their customers’ needs so you’ll find improved service, keen prices and exactly what you needed when you need it.

So put down that laptop and rediscover your city’s streets, here are a few places we think you should start your State of Independents at.

STAT

BEAUTY BOX A one stop emporium for all things beauty, The Beauty Box not only offers famous brands such as Benefit, OPI, Revlon and Elizabeth Arden but also available is a full brow bar offering threading, eyelash and eyebrow tinting, and and nail salon offering luxury treatments such as manicure, pedicure and the long-lasting GelColor at competitive prices.

Dluxe readers can enjoy an OPI Total Indulgence Spa Manicure and an OPI Total Indulgence Spa Pedicure for a special price of £49 instead of £55, saving you 10%! Just mention dluxe upon booking.

INDEPEN

Beauty Box. 37 Silver Street, The Lanes, Leicester. LE1 5EU Tel. 0116 251 1724 www.beautyboxshop.co.uk

THE LANES JEWELLERS

BROWNS LINGERIE

Leicester’s independent diamond specialists, Lanes Fine Jewellery specialise in Engagement, Wedding & Eternity Rings as well as loose diamonds. The company also offers a bespoke, design your own service at no extra charge as well as a remodelling service. For those with a penchant for luxury watches, the company also offers a classic and vintage watch sourcing service making their individual offering head and shoulders above the High Street.

Updating your wardrobe for the new season? Then don’t forget what goes underneath! Good, well fitting underwear can transform an outfit and we love this pretty range by Pleasure State available at:

25 Loseby Lane, Leicester, LE1 5DR www.lanesjewellers.com Tel. 0116 251 2529

Browns Lingerie, 35 Francis Street. Leicester. LE2 2BE

HAIR@1RD Trying out a new salon or a new hair style demands a leap of faith. You know you want a fresh look, but you’re nervous it might not suit. So, do you stay put or do you take that step into the unknown?

We say ‘go for it’ and whilst you’re at it, why not try the relaxed and informal atmosphere that is Hair@1rd. Established in 2001, the experienced Hair@1rd stylists specialise in making sure your own natural style shines through and are happy to advise on the best style and colour to suit you no matter what your gender or age.

The salon, located in the heart of the Cultural District on Rutland Street by the iconic Curve, also offers a specialist colour correction service so any home dyers out there take note- help is well and truly at hand! Add in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, late night opening on Wednesday, Thursday and Fridays and you might just have found hair heaven!

Hair@1rd 44 Rutland Street, The Cultural Quarter, Leicester, LE1 1RD Tel. 0116 2623001

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AMABIS Amabis have just had this season’s new products come in and believe us, there are some real beauties! Issey Miyake watches, Coeur de Lion, Nomination You Cool and Bon Bons are all in store now. We love these telephone handsets; available in nine colours you can make your smart phone retro for just £9.99!

TE OF

NDENTS

Amabis. 60 High Street, Leicester, LE1 5YP. Tel: 0116 262 2769

THE CANK STREET GALLERY Discover a wonderful collection of art at The Cank Street Gallery.

The current collection includes headline contemporary artists, Peter Blake and Barbara Rae, as well as local artists and rising stars in the art-world.

The gallery team give friendly and expert advice and offer a picture framing service. All work is skilfully handcrafted in its onsite workshop.

The Cank Street Gallery, Cank Street, Leicester. LE1 5GW. Tel. 0116 253 0313

IRISH When it comes to outerwear and coating, it’s no longer all about the quilted Barbour style of jacket. This season, the key to style and versatility is the classic Mac. Leicester retailer Irish Clothing, celebrating its centenary year this year, is proud to exclusively stock Seasalt and Joules Macs in the city.

Beautifully tailored to give a classic silhouette with a twist, the dark chino trench style Mac from Joules is a design classic, which looks as good dressed up as it does dressed down with jeans and a T making it the most stylish way to keep you wrapped up for autumn’s temperamental weather. It’s finished with a traditional rain shield to the back, gun patch detail and lapels and priced at £129.

Meanwhile the bright and breezy range of Macs from Seasalt are made from organic cotton Tin Cloth fabric, making them waterproof, windproof, lightweight and breathable. They’re also available in a vast range of colours, nautical and floral patterns to ensure you stand out from the crowd.

With coats available in hip, thigh and knee lengths, no matter what your shape or height you’re sure to find the perfect fit from the Seasalt range. They’re good value too; prices start from £99!

The entire range is available to buy online at www.irishuk.com Irish Clothing 8-14 High Street, Leicester. LE1 5YN. www.irishuk.com Tel: 0116 251 6305 www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

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Spotlight From her first television appearance in 1950 at the tender age of 17, Siân Phillips has gone on to cement her place as a national treasure and icon of British Stage and Screen. dluxe’s Jonathan Fraser caught up with the Welsh actress, now 80, to look back over an illustrious career and also ahead, to her role in Alan Bennett’s devilishly dry and hilarious new play People which, fresh from a sell out run at the National Theatre, will be gracing the stage of Leicester’s Curve from 24-28 September.

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- 17 Well I’m in Sheffield at the moment; working at the Crucible in a new musical by Tim Firth called ‘This Is Our Family’. We’re in the middle of the performance and finish in two weeks time and after that I’ll be rehearsing at the National for four or five weeks.

Putting on a new production is very much a multi-step process isn’t it? You’ve got the castings, the rehearsals, the opening night, the amendments and of course, the performances themselves; what part do you love getting your teeth into?

I love the playing part of it most, a lot of people like the rehearsing more than they like playing, but I’m the other way round.

When the production is all up on its feet it’s great, you can stop agonising and just run with it.

What is it about the stage that’s always appealed to you? - You were offered Hollywood contracts when you left The Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) but you distanced yourself from the film industry didn’t you?

Well, even though I was asked to go to Hollywood, I didn’t. I didn’t want to because it was back in the days before you could do single films. When I came out of RADA you had to sign seven year contracts with the studios which would’ve obviously been quite limiting. I’ve done quite a lot filmmaking since but they’ve always been single films, I haven’t had to sign up for long periods.

Mind you, I’ve done a massive amount of television; I’ve been doing television since I was 16, almost endlessly! There was a period when I was doing nothing but television.

I was just about to come on to that because you’ve played some iconic roles in iconic films, such as Dune and Clash of the Titans, and also television like I Claudius.

Do you have a particularly good eye or do you have a very good agent?

No it wasn’t my agent! (Laughs) I was just lucky really. I was always offered wonderful television and I did all those masterpiece theatres, you know in the years when they were doing one classic serial after another.

I did about ten of those, which kept me very busy in the 70s!

So how do you go about choosing a project – television or stage – and what first attracted you to People?

Oh it’s purely on the script and that’s certainly why I chose People! I mean, I hadn’t ever done an Alan Bennett play before and I’ve always felt that was rather remiss of me, so I’m thrilled that I’ve got the chance to be a part of one!

Tell me a little bit about your character Dorothy.

Well she’s an Aristocrat and was a very

famous model in the 50s and 60s. She had a bit of a disaster in her private life, so she came home, but of course there was no money and the stately home is crumbling, so the play is about what do you do with these wonderful properties? Do you let the National Trust take over and clean them up and have them overrun with ‘people’, you know, the people of the title or do you just let them fall down? And Dorothy figures she’d rather it just fall down!

"There was a period when I was doing nothing but television."

The play has been described as devilishly funny and very dry, is the house something of an allegory for the state of the country today?

It is incredibly funny and I’m having great fun studying the part already, I’ve not exactly learnt it but it’s written really well and I’ve and got some wonderful things to say. Dorothy, my character, doesn’t see it as an allegory for anything; she thinks it’s just a house and should be regarded as an ordinary building falling down. She feels that it may be lost, and if it is, then let it be lost, don’t try and grab it back. So Alan puts forward all the different views about how to treat things which is interesting for me, because I’ve just narrated a series of television programs about the National Trust and English heritage and the history of the whole movement. Of course they fundamentally disagree on everything, particularly how to handle these pressures; whether to pretend they are alright, sure them up with cement and steal girders to stop them from falling down, or to preserve the purity of them and let them take their chance. It’s a very difficult decision to make and very clever people come to blows about it! I realised the passion it evokes when I was making the television programme; but of course it also attracts some very amusing people, I mean the situations that they get themselves into are often quite ludicrous.

Alan Bennett is able to exploit that to the full of course, making it terribly funny.

I’ve been told it’s a very English play; it has a very English feel to it… and from what I’ve read about you, you’re a very, very Welsh actress?

(Laughs) No, I am Welsh but I’ve spent my life and career mainly in England. I only really get to Wales when I’m working; I was down there last summer to do a play for the National Theatre of Wales and I also did a big television special Wales, a cabaret called ‘An Evening With Siân Phillips’, which was all in Welsh, a few months ago. Unfortunately this show won’t be coming to Wales though.

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The tour takes you all over the country and you’ll be coming to the Midlands as well, stopping by at Leicester’s Curve and Birmingham Repertory Theatre won’t you?

Yes I am! And I don’t think I’ve ever played Curve, so I’m really looking forward to that; but most of the places I have played before, because I went out on quite a long tour with Calendar Girls before it went to the West End. I was in the first company of that, because that of course was Tim Firth who I’m currently working with on this musical in Sheffield. So I did cover a lot of the territory then and also, I toured for a very long time when I did Marlene before taking it to the West End. So I’ve played in most theatres we’re visiting. I really love touring actually, I never toured much until fairly recently, until I did Marlene.

Oh really? What is it about touring that appeals to you?

I just really enjoy it because, you know, it’s a lovely length of time to go and really get to know a city well; to go to the art galleries and to go to the museums, it’s really lovely.

How difficult is it to pick up such a successful show and take it on, what are the challenges represented by that?

Well the challenges are that one does it right you know! (Laughs) I mean obviously that’s a very simple challenge and that’s about it really, I can’t think of another one. People should be lovely to tour I think because Alan Bennett is incredibly popular, and also people don’t often get the chance to see the National Theatre all that much. I remember the last time I toured with the National, it was 1982 and Penelope Wilton and I took Major Barbara out on tour, but you know it was very successful because the National is a very special company, and the productions are always dazzling.

I’ve seen some early images and they look absolutely gorgeous, but what do you think about the set for People?

Oh it’s absolutely breathtaking, Bob Crowley’s designs are just amazing, the transformation of the house you know, it’s just like a piece of magic! It’s wonderful. To get those production values you need the standard of the National really, so I think it’s nice that people get to see it without having to travel to London.

So what lies ahead for you after People?

After People I go straight to Washington.

I work in America quite a bit and that’s where I’ll be calling home until the end of next April really, I’m going over to do The Importance of Being Ernest.

Oh wonderful. So does that suit you as a person, do you like a life of travelling?

I do very much! I love being in America and I love working there, but I’ve never done a

dluxe spotlight

So what are you up to at the moment then?

dluxe spotlight

- 18 “Oh it’s absolutely breathtaking, Bob Crowley’s designs are just amazing”

play in Washington before, it’s always been in New York, or Los Angeles, so I’m really looking forward to being somewhere new.

Is there a part out there that has evaded you so far? Are there any roles sat there that make you think ‘oh I’d love to try that?’

but I’d never played it on stage and I feel I really could have done that well. I felt like I’d missed out on that because I had to turn it down. Apart from that no, all the plays I’ve done have been plays I really wanted to do.

I’ve done a lot of Tennessee Williams, Shore and Oscar Wilde alongside modern plays, but they’ve all been ones that I’ve wanted to do.

Well I was very sad once when I was obliged through personal reasons to turn down ‘Anthony & Cleopatra’ in London. I’d recorded Cleopatra on the radio with Robert Stevens,

One last thing I was going to ask you Siân was, with your foray into the aristocracy and upper class life with People, could you

see yourself taking on a Downton Abbey type role on a Sunday evening?

Oh yes! That would be lovely, don’t you think?

I think everybody would enjoy that! (Laughs).

People will be at Curve 24 - 28

www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

September. To book tickets go to www.curveonline.co.uk

Kitchens | Bathrooms | Construction Kitchens The kitchen, the heart of every home. As a Mereway Kitchens Premier Partner we have a kitchen range to suit everyone’s taste and budget. Whether you are looking for the latest trends or perhaps for something a little more unique to you. These beautifully bespoke kitchens create a wonderful hub for you, your family and friends to socialise.

Want a bit of added luxury? Why not incltude the Siemens IQ700 range of appliances in your kitchen.

Come and see some of them being demonstrated in our showroom throughout October.

Bathrooms Every person and family have their own taste and style. We understand this, we design and create a room to relax and function around you and your life.

The displays in our showroom showcase traditional to contemporary with something to suit everyone, also on display is a fully working wet room, why not give it a try?

Let our designers create for you the ultimate retreat, where you can relax and unwind. We can help you get that individual look that you desire.

Construction We know that as you and your family grow, your house needs to do the same. Whether this be as simple as removing a dividing wall to create the ultimate kitchen. By installing a set of bi-fold doors you can create a substantial amount of open space, giving you easy access to your outside living area. We also offer a full turnkey service for all your building projects. Let us build your ultimate home.

If you would like to know more about this service please call us on the number provided or next time you’re in the area come in and see us.

0116 277 2252 oakland-leicester.co.uk 7-11 Welford Road | Blaby

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HOME

dluxe home

- 20 -

JUST AS ON THE CATWALK, A NEW SEASON BRINGS WITH IT A NEW SENSE OF STYLE FOR OUR HOMES. HERE ARE SOME OF THE KEY INTERIOR TRENDS TO LOOK OUT FOR.

TREND h c t a w

www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

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dluxe home

1

1.

2.

POP & BLOCK Bright colours abound with blocks of marine blue, kelly green, hot fuchsia, and citrus shades sitting well against neutral shades or, for those more daring, work well teamed with clashing geometric prints.

Opposite Page: Fenton Sofa from £664, Marks and Spencer. This Page: 1.Bud armchair £564.40 www. beadlecromeinteriors.co.uk, 2. Nest Chair £425 www. oscarandeve.co.uk, 3. Neopolitan 6 Drawer Tallboy Black & Green £399 www.chichifurniture.com, 4.

Linea shard Bedding from £50, House of Fraser.

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3.

we love this!

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2.

GO FOR GOLD

4.

Paired with black for a truly decadent look, finishes include both matt and polished, whilst fabrics such as silks and velvets reflect the preciousness of their tones.

5.

Left to right: 1. Versailles Gold Console Table (large) £939 www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk, 2. Dainty Gold Constance Bedside Table £239 www. sweetpeaandwillow.com, 3. Orante mirror £125, Next, 4. Gold Gilt Silk Love Chair £326 www.sweetpeaandwillow.com, 5. French ‘Bourges’ Gold Bombe Sideboard £699.99 www.chichifurniture.com

www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

dluxe home

3

- 22 4.

2.

STICKS AND STONES

The natural beauty of wood and stone brings the outside in representing an austere interior trend which could be taken to monastic levels of minimalism.

The beauty of untreated sticks, stumps, branches and barks is the focus here.

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Clockwise from Top: 1. Eddison Table Lamp £28, Next, 2. Elephants Tooth Stool Detail £150 www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk, 3. Wooden telephone £35, Next, 4.

Shoreditch Bedside Chest £150, Next, 5. Industrial Factory Cart Coffee Table £575 www.alexanderandpearl.co.uk, 6. Oblong Games Table £850, Broughtons Interiors, www. broughtons.com 7. Raw Industrial Wooden End Table £225 www.alexanderandpearl.co.uk, 8. Saigon Blue Lacquered Console Table £317 www.artisanti.com, 9. Shore Round Driftwood Coffee Table £295 www.alexanderandpearl.co.uk, 10. Saloon Stairway Bookcase £410 www.beautifulmodernthing.com, 11. Adam Chimney Piece £1708 www. haddonstone.com, 12. Wooden clock, £70, Next, 13. Stoneware Sugar Pot £15 www.tabletreasure.co.uk

www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

There are eyes everywhere. From chairs to clocks, ornaments to ottomans the trend for faces and facial features will be particularly strong this season. Mix with vintage taxidermy or Romany inspired florals; depending on how sinister a saloon you require.

2.

dluxe home

- 23 FULL FACE

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Clockwise from left: 1. Sa Majeste French Cabinet £1895, 2. Floral Cushion £19.50, Marks and Spencer, 3. Mrs.Cushion £69.95, www. naken.co.uk, 4. Headgear African cushion £65, www.maudinteriors.com, 5. Teacup £8, Marks and Spencer, 6. Dog Cushion £22, Debenhams, 7. Lapin Chair £365 www.sweetpeaandwillow.com

STORMY WEATHER 3.

Cloudbusting has never been so beautiful. Ethereal and tranquil, think greys, mauves, blues and mix with chalky whites and stones 2.

1.

4.

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5

Clockwise from bottom: 1. Vented core pendant £47, French over mantel mirror £129, Havannah Laundry hamper £49, all from littlewoods, 2. Clock £39.50, Marks and Spencer, 3. Bathroom set, from £16, House of Fraser, 4. Pendant £28, Next, 5. Water Hyacinth Easy Chair £220, Broughtons Interiors, www.broughtons.com

www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

& click competitions.

prizes include: tickets to Grand Designs Live at the NEC Birmingham Dinner and an overnight Stay at the Novotel Birmingham A signed copy of George Clarke’s new ‘Amazing Spaces’ book A signed copies of Kevin McCloud’s book

your very own

WIN!

dluxe home

For your chance to win, simply visit:

- 24 -

! e c n e i r e exp

dluxe LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND have got together with the Grand Designs team to offer this amazing prize!

Taking place from the 4 – 6 October, Grand Designs Live is based on the hugely popular Channel 4 TV show, Grand Designs, which has gained a huge following in the UK over the last 10 years. TV broadcaster and live show host, Kevin McCloud will be at the Birmingham show meeting fans, chairing debates in the Grand Theatre and sharing his Grand Design experiences with visitors.

HOT

property

GOT A SMARTPHONE? SCAN IT • GO THERE! Scan the code with your phone to take you straight to the website where you can be in with a chance of winning! or visit www. dluxe-magazine.co.uk for info.

Oak Farm, Peatling Road, Ashby Magna, Leicestershire, LE17 5NW Guide price: £725,000 Situated in a lovely rural location between Ashby Magna and Peatling Parva, Oak Farm has some wonderful rural views to the front and rear and dates back to circa 1900.

Beautifully presented having been renovated and extended by the present owners, the property is well proportioned over two floors, with a large garden, paddock and outbuildings, which extend to approximately two acres.

The well-appointed interior includes a wealth of oak features as well as four reception rooms, living kitchen, four double bedrooms and three bathrooms. There is scope for further extension and development including planning permission to convert one of the outbuildings into a home office.

For more information contact Fisher German, 40 High Street, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, LE16 7NX. Tel: 01858 410 200 www.fishergerman.co.uk www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

g in EW rk N a r m p ou roo mer t i to s w Vi ho E cus

s

RE eF pl Am

years of success

carpets • smooth flooring • rugs

Come and see… you’ll be surprised!

Tel: 0116 255 5043 • www.dalkardelliott.co.uk 260 Aylestone Lane Wigston Leicester LE18 1BD

dluxe home

WE LOVE

Beauty

Contemporary style and natural beauty combine to exquisite effect in the Japanese inspired design of the new Geo Collection from William Garvey. Based in Devon, but delivering both nationally and internationally, William Garvey boast over 40 years of experience and have come to epitomise effortless elegance, gaining repute for their unique wooden bathroom furniture which creates a warm and natural environment in which to cleanse the body.

in the

Bath

There’s no need to worry about splinters in embarrassing places though as William Garvey’s critical eye for detail and care regarding the finer points of each wood finish, together with the unique antiseptic properties intrinsically linked to wooden bathroom furniture, mean that all pieces in the Geo Collection are guaranteed to make for a truly pleasurable bathing experience.

Fine and Country Loughborough and The Charnwood Forest T: 01509 891 398 www.fineandcountry.com Here is a taste of some of the excellent properties we have for sale right now and helps to demonstrate the level of quality, marketing and production which lie at the core of the Fine & Country experience.

Much has been written and spoken by the Press recently about an ‘upturn’ in the market, perhaps more in hope than expectation, however there are real signs and indeed results of a rise in confidence, a higher volume of viewings and more new applicants entering the marketplace.

The Autumn often heralds an increase in activity after the Summer holidays and with buyers having a fighting chance of moving into their new home ahead of Christmas. This increase in buyers with ability and confidence offers the opportunity for those sellers who really want to ‘catch the wave’, but beware sellers, these buyers are well informed, well researched and they will only buy realistically priced properties. In short, they are no mugs and thanks to the internet have access to more information to help them buy right, than ever before.

Fine & Country have quickly developed a reputation for achieving the strongest prices by having access to a wider market place, an attachment to the types of buyers seeking such properties and great skills in firstly marketing and thereafter negotiating to achieve the best possible result.

Please contact myself or one of the team at Fine & Country Loughborough and Charnwood Forest, we have the time and experience seldom found in today’s estate agency world.

Prices start at £670 and all pieces from the collection are available as a standard option or can be custom made to ensure a bespoke result.

With the expertise to work with all types of wood as well as the ability to combine materials such as glass, metal and leather, William Garvey really are able to fulfil any creative design you can dream up!

Gary J Hartley BSc MRICS FNAEA

For more information go to www.williamgarvey.co.uk

Chartered Surveyor and Partner

Bradgate Hill, Groby Guide Price: £750,000 Westoning is a most impressive and spacious individual family home set behind a deep front garden and sweeping driveway with generous mature gardens and open countryside aspect.

Remodelled by the present vendor to a high quality contemporary finish, extending the original property and introducing Continental ideas and styling which deliver not only cool and sleek but light and functional space not apparent to the passerby.

The property features sliding internal doors, a high end “Haecker” kitchen with sleek lines, a vaulted ceiling and living space, the large garden room with bi-folding doors and indoor heated swimming pool with shower and changing facilities.

The gas centrally heated accommodation includes five double bedrooms two with en suite and a separate family bathroom, long sweeping driveway allows extensive parking and reaches a double carport and double garage beyond, the property is bordered by open fields at the rear and woodland adjacent. Bradgate Hill is midway between Groby and Markfield affording quick and easy access to the city centre, the M1 motorway and the beautiful Charnwood Forest. EPC Rating D.

Main Street, Cossington Guide Price: £675,000 A surprisingly large and stylish architect designed individual detached split-level property enjoying an immensely private and secluded position within large landscaped south facing gardens, which extend to approximately half an acre.

Extending to approx 3170 sq ft, Oaklands is a creative home with a contemporary open plan arrangement hiding behind an attractive though understated façade. For those looking for something a little bit different with its own character and large private gardens in a most attractive village position set back away from the road behind electric wrought iron gates, this property is a real find.

The bright and airy ground floor comprises a broad covered outer porch leading to an open dining hall with a floating staircase, high vaulted lounge with galleried second sitting room over, a fabulous open living kitchen with Aga, granite breakfast peninsula and terracotta tiles.

A rear passageway, utility room and downstairs wc. There are two large ground floor double bedrooms, the master with dressing room and stylish en suite. At first floor level as well as the galleried sitting room there are two further bedrooms and a shower room/wc. EPC Rating D.

Bull Hill, Worthington Guide Price: £620,000 From a commanding elevated position the property enjoys fabulous countryside views across its gardens and the valley beyond. A perfect house for those with a growing family to take advantage of the light and spacious five-bedroom accommodation together with the large enclosed gardens.

The flexible accommodation benefits from no upward chain, oil fired central heating and offers a central hallway, two principal reception rooms, additional breakfast room adjacent to the kitchen, utility room, rear lobby and downstairs shower room/wc. The main first floor accommodation has three double sized bedrooms, family bathroom and master en suite; a second staircase leads to bedrooms four and five or study and another bathroom. The driveway allows parking and turning space with access to the large double garage and the gardens are a true delight stretching to almost one acre and featuring a stone wall ha-ha, large lily pond with chill out decking area, pontoon boardwalk and a skilfully built children’s fort. The views are just delightful enjoyed from the gardens as well as the house. EPC Rating E.

19 Main Street, Woodhouse Eaves, Loughborough LE12 8RY

01509 891 398

fineandcountry.com

HOT

Manorcroft House, Ashby Parva, Leicestershire, LE17 5HY

property

Guide price: £795,000

Manorcroft House is a beautiful character property that appears to date from the early 16th Century with sympathetic additions in the 18th and 19th Centuries. More recently a superb timber framed extension has been added to the kitchen. The main house consists of a large kitchen/breakfast room, four reception rooms and three bedrooms. Attached to the property is an additional annexe consisting of a reception room, kitchen/diner and three bedrooms. The annex could potentially be incorporated into the main house to create one large six-bedroom property. The large garden has been beautifully designed and is very private.

For more information contact Fisher German, 40 High Street, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, LE16 7NX. Tel: 01858 410 200 www.fishergerman.co.uk

Dalkard & Elliott to showcase new

collaboration!

A

new and exclusive range of ‘Bell Twist’ carpet colours inspired by the international fashion and home furnishing icon Laura Ashley is to be showcased by Leicester flooring retailer Dalkard & Elliott at its showroom in Wigston.

The range includes six exciting new colour ways including Twine, Amethyst, Grape, Truffle, Soft Truffle and Dark Linen, and is exclusive to carpet manufacturer Brintons, featuring their ‘Brintons Blend’ of 80 per cent soft wool and 20 per cent nylon.

Grape

Truffle

Carry your colour scheme through to your carpet!

Dalkard & Elliott have been chosen as one of the specially selected stores nationally who will trial the range ahead of its inclusion in Brinton’s 2014 brochure. This is very big news!

The colours have been selected to complement the fabrics and wallpapers featured in the Laura Ashley collections and are sure to be popular with new and regular customers alike. This prestigious association is all the more reason for celebration in Dalkard & Elliott’s 50th birthday year.

To find out more or to request a home measuring and design consultation, call Dalkard & Elliott on 0116 255 5043 or visit their new showroom on Aylestone Lane, Wigston, LE18 1BD. Open every day.

Dark Linen

Complete

The Look!

Soft Truffle

www.dalkardelliott.co.uk Twine

Amethyst

www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

Images courtesy of Laura Ashley

dluxe home

- 28 -

Changing your kitchen can be quite an intrusive process.

Whoever said that the heart of any home is its kitchen really did have a point so it pays to get it right and make sure your future-proof what is probably the most important room in the house. Oaklands offer a full design service for all types of projects including kitchens and specialise in sourcing and supplying really useful technology to make sure you get the kitchen of your dreams that will not only look great but will work well into the future and fit around your lifestyle.

We love our toys here at dluxe and that’s why we cannot wait for the release of Siemens’ latest range of kitchen appliances.

Life should be about luxury and convenience and Siemen’s new gadgets, available from October are the epitome of this.

After all, why would you settle for bland instant coffee when you can rustle yourself up a cracking cappuccino using a space age looking coffee centre? Similarly, Flex Induction Hobs with their instant heat, sleek design and LED touch interface make for a futuristic and fashionable addition to any kitchen.

Oaklands, based in Blaby will have the new range of Siemens IQ700 appliances on display in full working order in their showroom from October 2013, perfect timing for you to get the kitchen of your dreams ready for Christmas! Oaklands know that your home has to fit around your life and with that full design service they really ensure your space works for you.

Oaklands is @ 7 – 11 Welford Road, Blaby LE8 4FT. Tel: 0116 277 2252

Go Go Gadget Kitchen! g in EW rk N a r m p ou roo mer t i to s w Vi ho E cus

s

RE eF l p Am

years of success

curtains • cushions • throws • bed heads

Come and see… you’ll be surprised!

Tel: 0116 255 5043 • www.dalkardelliott.co.uk 260 Aylestone Lane Wigston Leicester LE18 1BD

Fashion Editor Clare Thompson

www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

Phillipa Jacket £219, Phillipa Skirt £129, The Teddie £129, Arna Courts £169, Hobbs

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AW13

TRENDS

WOMAN

- 31 Clockwise: 1. Stained glass jersey dress Alexander Mcqueen £695, Selfridges, 2. Red Herring Pearl Pendant £12, Debenhams, 3. Dune Dlocket Frame Satchel Handbag £59, John Lewis, 4.

Mood Crystal Cross £10, Debenhams, 6. Sunlasses, Jacket and Top all from Reiss, Penny Dress £89, Phase Eight, Jinelle Shoe £100, Dr Martens.

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Everybody loves a good girl. Neat cuts, detailed robes, high collars, rich materials and dark hues, combined with slick hair and fishtail plaits. Holier than thou, it seems religion has become a key theme within the AW13 catwalks from the likes of Valentino, McQueen and J.W. Anderson. Less Vicar of Dibley and much more The Thornbirds, it’s definitely time to get our Church on.

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THAT’S SO 70’S SKIRTS Forget skin tight, the new must have skirt for your autumn wardrobe has a little more movement.

Reaching below the knee and with a slight 70s flare, wear with the chunkiest of boots and flat-form heels.

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BOY MEETS GIRL

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Pixie crops, long locks, high waisted trousers, short shorts, and so on and so forth – but who’s who?

Fashion is separating the women from the girls this autumn/winter, and what better way to do so than with masculine tailoring. Large panelled jackets and thick collared shirts were all over the AW13 catwalks and will be all over the shops too.

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Clockwise: 1. Dress £145, Betty Barclay, 2. French Connection Chevron Print Skirt £60, John Lewis, 3. Caramel Phoebe Knee Length Skirt £59.95, Joules, 4. Karenina Skirt £59, Monsoon, 5. Silk Skirt £210, Hugo Boss

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From top: 1. KG by Kurt Geiger Lara Slipper Shoes, Black £90, John Lewis, 2. Checked Tailored Shorts £95, Reiss, 3. Pied a Terre jacket £189, House of Fraser, 4. Ava Black Felt Trilby £59, Reiss, 5. Tidy lace shoe £65, Office, 6. Red herring shirt £30, Debenhams

www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

3.

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dluxe woman

CHURCH

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REBEL

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Following Donatella Versace’s brand-new take on the era, Punk is well and truly back with the vengeance this Autumn/ Winter. Nothing fights the bitter cold better than leather trousers so why not add a few safety pins to complete the look?

A darker look no doubt, step it up with a handful of understated glamour pieces.

Clockwise from left: 1.

Black Studded Leather Satchel £185, Karen Millen 2. Red Herring kilt £28, Debenhams 3. Black crown brooch £20, www. emporiumengland. co.uk, 4. Tartan tights £8, block heel boots £45, Next, 5. Armani Exchange Women’s Metal and Leather Bracelet Watch £99, John Lewis, 6. Faux Leather and Jersey fitted shift dress £160, Karen Millen, 7. Black leather lace dress, £600, Josh and Nicol, www. joshandnicol.com, 8.

Oversized Checked Blazer £69.99, Zara, 9.

Matilda Check Shirt Dress £45, Fat Face, 10.

Rocco heart ashby jeans £85, All Saints, 11. Stripe Jersey Dress £129, Reiss

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SCI-FI CHIC The future is nothing to be afraid of, in fact let’s buckle up and enjoy the ride. Sharp tailoring with exaggerated shaping and shoulders and metallic statement bags complete the look and are great for storing ray guns. www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

7.

Left to right: 1. Biba Block Tunic Dress £135, House of Fraser, 2. Anuras Blazer £430, Hugo Boss, 3. Call It Spring Spiked Wedge £42, Debenhams, 4. Red Herring Spike Necklace £12, Debenhams, 5. Snake Skin Bag Pied a Terre £79, House Of Fraser, 6. Preen Edition Block Dress £75, Debenhams, 7. Harper Black Cuff £20, www. emporiumengland.co.uk

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Brocato Lakme Moroccon Oil Indola

Relaxed Style in the Heart of the City 44 Rutland Street, The Cultural Quarter, Leicester. LE1 1RD Tel. 0116 2623001 www.hairat1rd.co.uk

60 high street, leicester 0116 262 2769 www.amabis.co.uk

Isn’t it time you got the

Dentique Smile?

General & Cosmetic Dentistry Implants Orthodontics Smile Makeovers Denture Stabilisation Dentique, 1a Knighton Grange Rd, Leicester, LE2 2LF 0116 270 0550 www.dentique.co.uk

2013

“Updating your hair for the new season is equally as important as updating your wardrobe” writes Robert Whitfield, Creative Director and Partner at Yan Hair “Our Stylists and Technicians all keep a finger on the pulse of what are the hottest looks for the new season, creating something that is bespoke to your personal style.” Here’s their guide to this season’s key trends for hair.

Colour:

dluxe woman

Hair Trends

- 34 -

Condition: Cut: Autumn/Winter is the perfect time to sharpen up your tresses – get rid of the sundried ends and make way for your new season shape. Striking bobs are very empowering, but keeping the edges soft and fluid allows for your femininity to exude in abundance.

Play with the texture of your hair too; smooth and sleek for the office transitioning to textured and effortless for the evening.

Incorporating subtle layers will give hair movement and using products such as Aveda Pure Abundance Hair Potion is ideal to exaggerate width and shape.

Make the natural transition from summer to winter by enriching your colour with intense hues. Blondes can glow in warm Amber infused shades of Winter Peach, while Brunettes are dusted with Copper sunlit threads of Auburn and cooler shades are blushed with subtle hints of Rose. The mood is simple yet effective. You don’t need to think dramatic change, more an understated and natural transition.

Looking after your hair as the weather shifts to cooler days is essential. Especially after investing in your ultimate new season look! It’s imperative to adopt the right aftercare to keep your hair nourished and the Aveda Damage Remedy Range offers the ultimate protein kick that the hair needs to repair and retain its natural health and lustre.

Yan Hair is at 53a- 55 Queens Road, Leicester.

LE21TT Tel. 0116 270 9980 or book online at

www.yanhair.co.uk

Clothes Show Live Returns

Marking their 25th anniversary, Clothes Show Live 2013 is set to be the hottest ticket on the fashion calendar this year! Over 500 leading fashion and beauty brands, the world’s largest catwalk, hosted by fashion icon and designer Henry Holland, styling tools and techniques from industry experts, make-overs, style transformations and trend reports, gorgeous celebrities, tempting bars, and inspirational fashion demonstrations will all be spread over five exciting days. There’s something for everyone, so whatever your style, it’s time to make space in your wardrobe.

WIN! dluxe LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND has teamed up with Clothes Show Live to offer lucky readers and their ‘plus one’ the chance to attend the year’s most prestigious fashion event, absolutely free!

To be in with a chance of winning these fabulous tickets, visit www.dluxe-magazine. co.uk and click on competitions.

Tickets are valid across all days of the show and are limited to one pair per winner. So what are you waiting for? Send your entry today!

The star-studded event will also welcome the first ever episodes of Take Me Out Live, hosted by the king of dating, Paddy McGuinness. A selection of bachelors will aim to impress a line-up of 30 single girls all in search of Mr Right, with 10 girls being chosen at the show each day.

Britain and Ireland’s Next Top Model will also bring TV to the stage as this year’s contestants will be giving the inside scoop on model life, holding exclusive autograph sessions, and strutting their stuff on the catwalk in their first public appearance since the show. Fancy a modelling future for yourself?

Learn the tips and tricks of the industry in a Model Masterclass and look out for casting opportunities as the big names in fashion scout the crowds for emerging talent. www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

For more information, visit the Clothes Show Live website: www.clothesshowlive.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ ClothesShow Twitter: @Clothesshow

So many products,

so little time...

E

ver felt like there aren’t enough hours in the day to research new beauty products and trends? Well, sign up to Birchbox for just £10 a month and receive a beautifully packaged box full of miniature premium beauty products to try each month. You can expect to receive a really diverse mixture of premium products – the options are endless and each box is themed for that particular month. We were sent the Festivalthemed box, which included a fab Leave In Conditioner, Color Club Nail Polish, Coola Classic Face 30 SPF, ModelCo Eye Define Black Eye Pencil and Noble Isle Shower Gel.

Subscribe to Birchbox and you’ll automatically receive a second box, free of charge, to give to a friend or relative.

All you have to do is enter the coupon code ‘dluxe’ at the checkout. Offer valid until 1 December 2o13.

A great concept for beauty addicts, there’s even a handy in-box magazine included that’s packed full of need-to-know tips and tricks. We also love that you can buy subscriptions as a gift – brilliant for the girl who has everything or loved ones that live at a distance. The downside? Postage is charged on top at £2.95 which is a little annoying but the box itself is great quality, nicely presented and the value of the products easily exceed the £10 outlay.

Visit www.birchbox.co.uk to find out more.

QUALITY, NO COMPROMISE

53a-55 Queens Road, Leicester, LE2 1TT 0116 270 9890 www.yanhair.co.uk

KEY HAIR TRENDS

FOR AUTUMN/ WINTER 2013-14 RAILWAY STATION

DEMONTFORT HALL

The salon is open six days a week, including late nights until 8pm on Wednesday and Thursday. facebook.com/yanhairdressing

QUEENS RD HOWARD RD

REGENT RD

VICTORIA PARK

A6 LONDON RD

VICTORIA PARK RD

GRANVILLE RD

A6 LONDON RD

@YanHair

LEICESTER’S EXCLUSIVE AVEDA SALON

MAN

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- 36 -

AUTUMN TRENDS Keep up with Mother Nature’s colour palette and follow our advice when it comes to working the fashion trends this autumn.

www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

Image: City roll neck £95, Sawboss holdall £295, Trousers £110, Derby smart shoe £159, all from REISS

Fashion Editor Clare Thompson

4.

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1 Crazy Colour

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dluxe man

Following the SS13 trend for bright colours, orange is predicted to be BIG this upcoming season. Seamlessly transferring into the winter season, boys should expect to see simple pops of bold colours in their fashion.

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Clockwise from left: 1. Thomas Pink Bruton Stripe Tie £69, John Lewis, 2. Hugo Boss Blended cotton long sleeve top £39, BOSS, 3. Polo Ralf Lauren Quilted Gilet £255, John Lewis, 4. Fair Isle Sweater £30, Next, 5. Cambridge Saatchel Company fluro saatchel £125, Selfridges, 6. Vivienne westwood bag £165, House of Fraser, 7. Barney Diamond Pattern Socks £12, Reiss, 8. Polo Ralph Lauren wallet £59, House of Fraser, 9. Paul Smith Men’s Wallet £155, Christopher Scotney, 10. Selected Homme Three Paris Trousers £40, John Lewis

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al

2

Clockwise from left: 1. Crabtree Belted jacket £245, Reiss, 2. Blue Suit, Austin Reed, 3. Ask The Missus boots £89.99, Office, 4. Simon Carter Platinum Plated Mother of Pearl Cufflinks £59, John Lewis, 5. Taoo spot stripe shirt £120, Ted Baker, 6. John Rocha hat £28, Debenhams, 7. Paul Smith wallet £89, House of Fraser, 8. Criminal Jumper £55, House of Fraser

To n

3.

6.

To ta

lly

ks c e

Clashers, be gone! Autumn/ winter is all about smart toning for men in key colours such as creams, greys, oranges and navy. Subtle shading and texturing stops the look from drifting into pension day chic.

4.

2.

! lo

n

Po … co r a

5.

M 2.

7.

8.

Polos have replaced shirting as this season’s wardrobe staple. Layer beneath V-necks, wear with a waistcoat and even dress up with a skinny tie. It’s all about casual, understated luxury.

4.

1.

Clockwise from left: 1. Daylesford Roll Neck £94.99, Superdry, 2. Rocha John Rocha coat £180, roll neck £45, backpack £55, Debenhams, 3. Fine Knit Jumper £195 Vivienne Westwood, 4. Best of British Polo neck £129, Marks and Spencer

www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

Bold prints are everywhere this season so don’t be afraid to don a dramatic animal print underneath your sharp panelled jacket this season.

1.

Playful Prints

dluxe man

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2.

3.

[]

4.

6.

8.

5.

7.

Clockwise from left: 1. Vivienne Westwood rucksack £255, Pilot, 2. Combined Printed Shirt £29.99, Zara, 3. Villain Colt Jumper £104, TOPMAN, 4. Red Herring Scarf £20, Debenhams, 5. Wallpaper Print T-Shirt £19.99, Zara, 6. Dockers Bandana Print Shirt £70, John Lewis, 7. Robert Graham Shirt, Sveti, £150, Christopher Scotney, 8. Lyle & Scott LS All Over Cross Stitch Print Sweatshirt True Black, £69.95, Wellgosh

2.

Left to Right: 1. Dune Shoreline DM Leather Faux Fur Hi-Top Trainers £85, Debenhams, 2. LUKE Roper Fur Hat £38, Christopher Scotney, 3. Tommy Hilfiger Ken Faux Fur Bomber Jacket £190, John Lewis, 4.

Biker Jacket With Fur Collar £89.99, Zara, 5. Torrin Boot £69.99, Office, 6. Tailored Coats from £245, REISS

1.

3.

4.

5 Fu r

r

yN

ice

In Preparation for the bitter months ahead, fur is everywhere. With Topman and edgy St Martins fashion graduate Shaun Samson both showcasing the trend on their AW13 catwalks, it seems the gents will stay nice and toasty this winter.

5.

www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

JAGUAR XF. NOT AS EXPENSIVE AS IT SHOULD BE.

Jaguar XF raNge From £299 a moNth* With 3 Years Free serviciNg.** You may have not anticipated the price, but everything else about the XF is exactly as you would expect from a Jaguar. With an impressive standard specification including, dab radio, Xenon headlamps, intelligent stop/start and alloy wheels. Why compromise with a car, when you can own a Jaguar? contact us today to book a test drive.

XF 2.2d LuXury (163PS) 13My

XF SaLooN

XF sportbrake

£32,945

£35,445

dealer deposit contribution

£2,924

£3,085

customer deposit

£9,395

£9,695

on the road Price

36 Monthly Payments gMFV – optional Final Payment (includes £295 fee) amount of credit

£299

£339

£12,308 £20,626

£13,118 £22,665

total amount Payable by customer

£32,467

£35,017

duration (Months)

SturgeSS, LeiceSter

445 Narborough road, Leicester Le3 2re

www.SturgeSS.LeiceSter.jaguar.co.uk 01162 826868

rate of interest (Fixed) representative aPr

37

37

4.34%

4.38%

4.9%

4.9%

rePreSeNtatiVe eXaMPLe

Official Fuel economy figures for the Jaguar XF range in MPG (l/100km): Urban 16.7–46.3 (16.9–6.1); Extra Urban 32.8–62.8 (8.6–4.5); Combined 24.4–55.4 (11.6–5.1). CO2 Emissions 270–135 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. *Representative 4.9% APR Jaguar Privilege available on new XF and XF Sportbrake models (excluding 2.2 SE & 2.2 SE Business) registered between 1st July and 30th September 2013 at participating dealers only. Promotions are not available for used cars. Finance subject to status. Guarantees may be required. Jaguar Cars Finance, PO BOX 4465, Slough, Berkshire, SL1 0RW. With Jaguar Privilege you have the option to return the vehicle and not pay the final payment, subject to the vehicle not having exceeded an agreed annual mileage (a charge of 12p per mile for exceeding 10,000 miles per annum in this example) and being in good condition. We work with a number of creditors to provide finance to our customers, including Jaguar Cars Finance. **This promotion applies to eligible Jaguar XF Saloon and Sportbrake cars registered between 1st July and 30th September 2013 on Jaguar Cars Finance at participating Jaguar dealers. Services must take place at participating Jaguar Authorised Repairers. The “free servicing certificate” should be presented to the dealership at time of booking the vehicle in for a service in order to qualify. The promotion is only available at the point of registration of the vehicle in the customer’s name. Free servicing covers scheduled servicing and associated parts (oils, hydraulic fluids, seals, filters, elements and antifreeze) and labour for three years’ from the date of invoice up to a maximum of three services (3 years or 48,000 miles diesel / 45,000 miles petrol, whichever is sooner). Scheduled servicing intervals are detailed in the vehicle handbook. Excludes wear and tear items such as shock absorbers, exhaust systems, tyres, windscreens, windows, engines, transmissions, electronics, cost of fitting or repairing accessories and any form of accident damage and non-routine servicing work, parts or labour. The service package is not a warranty package. The free service promotion is only valid for the vehicle purchased. If the customer cancels the finance agreement prior to the first service being due, Jaguar Land Rover reserves the right to cancel the Service Plan.

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PUT THE BOOT IN

Established over 40 years ago in Brazil, Anatomic & Co specialise in high quality, hand crafted style driven men’s footwear.

The premium footwear brand incorporates luxurious leathers, focusing on texture and colours, along with the latest in shoe making technology including patented Anatomic Gel Technology to make ‘the most comfortable shoes that money can buy.’ The season’s new range includes styles suited to both work and leisure including the wider styles of the Ease range.

WIN!

dluxe LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND have three pairs of Anatomic and Co shoes to give away. For your chance to win a pair, visit: www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

REAL MEN MOISTURISE

For years, women have followed the daily beauty mantra “cleanse,

tone and moisturise”, so take note guys ... this is how it’s done

JOHN PAUL

MCGUIRK

explains the perfect daily grooming routine.

CLEANSE

1

EXPERT

TIP

Get deep down and dirty morning and night to ensure you remove the dirt from your skin, as blocked pores can lead to spots. Massage cleanser into the skin and pay particular attention to areas where dirt can get trapped like the corners of the mouth, the creases near the nose, the chin (which is especially prone to blackheads) and neck. Once the cleanser has been massaged in thoroughly, take a moist cotton pad and remove, working from the sides of your face inwards so you don’t get it in your hair.

TONE

2

Toner is an essential second step to remove any remaining bits of dirt as well as help soothe, nourish and hydrate the skin while restoring its delicate pH balance. Simply use a cotton wool pad to apply the toner across your forehead, cheeks, around your nose and chin to keep your skin super clean and firm.

moisturise

3

We’re exposed to central heating, air conditioning and pollution every day, and all these dry out our skin’s natural moisture, leaving it flaky and - gulp - prone to wrinkles. Daily moisturising forms a protective barrier, replenishing natural moisture. Apply a small amount twice daily with your fingertips and use a specialist eye cream for the more delicate area of your face.

www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

- 41 57-

dluxe diary man

r Of feers: e v i s d Exclluuxe Rea for D

YS A D 3O JUST FOR

O 2 £

It’s getting hot in here! - With a series of 26 postures in 9O minutes that are designed to de-stress and make you feel healthier and stronger than you’ve ever been.

All performed in 4O-degrees heat!

Bikram Yoga Leicester 59 Friar Lane, Leicester, LE1 5RB www.bikramyogaleicester.co.uk 0116 2619262

Register now and get 30 days membership for just £20 Visit www.bikramyogaleicester.co.uk now to register or call in to the studio at 59 Friar Lane, Leicester, LE1 5RB www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

dluxe family

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family

Family Arts Week @ Curve!

Since time immemorial Half Term has always brought with it the enduring question of ‘what do we do with the kids?’ a question that until now had gone unanswered. Thankfully though, the lifesavers at Curve have stepped in with an alternative to days spent in front of the PlayStation in the form of their Family Arts Week, taking place 21 – 26 October.

Free and very family-friendly, there will be a number of special workshops and activities hosted throughout the week including Curve Children’s Choir, dance classes, birthday cake baking, story-telling and craft making.

Youngsters will love the stage version of Hairy Maclary, based on the books by Lynley Dodd in Curve’s theatre from 25 – 26 October and word has it that there may even be a dinosaur or two in town, with Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo stomping through from 22 – 24 October.

For a full programme of events head to www.curveonline.co.uk

Kids Favourite SCHOOL FOCUS:

strive for

excellence

G

etting the right educational start for your son or daughter is one of the most important decisions in any parent’s life. Your child’s journey should be filled with excitement and wonder as they develop into fulfilled, well rounded students properly equipped for the next stage of their education, whatever that may be. Here we bring you all the information you need to know about some of the county’s best and highest achieving private and independent schools, to give your child the head start in life they deserve.

- 43 -

ounded in 1981, Leicester Grammar has grown to become one of the county’s most respected independent schools. In order to house it’s expansion, the decision was made to move the school from the city centre to a purpose built, state of the art facility in Great Glen in 2008, and further development may yet be in the pipeline.

Open DAY: Saturday 2 November 9:30am - 1:30pm

Leicester Grammar School and Leicester Grammar Junior School.

Leicester Grammar really is the ideal school. With 800 pupils at senior level and 400 at junior, it is small enough to generate a strong sense of community where the teachers know every student by name, but also large enough to launch ambitious sports and drama projects.

As a traditional grammar school, children are guaranteed to receive a well-rounded education and the school prides itself on the fact that each subject is taught to an incredibly high level by a specialist in their field. It is also one of the few schools that insists up on pupils studying at least one modern foreign language at GCSE level.

Applications to the school are hotly contested, drawing in prospective students from the southern suburbs of Leicester, Market Harborough, the surrounding villages and beyond. Tours and taster sessions are also available to book through Natalie Hunthuntn@leicestergrammar.org.uk For more information call 0116 259 1900 or visit their website at www.leicestergrammar.org.uk

2013 OPEN MORNING SATURDAY 2ND NOVEMBER 9:30AM - 1:30PM

An Independent HMC co-educational school for pupils aged 10-18

0116 2591900

An Independent IAPS co-educational school for pupils aged 3-11

0116 2591950

For more information or to book a tour visit: www.leicestergrammar.org.uk London Road, Great Glen LE8 9FL

dluxe family

F

dluxe family

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G

race Dieu Manor School should be high up on the list of places to visit when looking at future schooling for your child. Conveniently situated between Ashby and Loughborough in a magnificent rural setting, Grace Dieu has much to offer children from 3-13 years.

Small class sizes and individual care ensure children work hard, enjoy school life and achieve their full potential. Proof of this comes in the outstanding results that pupils frequently obtain in Key Stage Tests and 13+ entry tests to senior schools. Last year Grace Dieu’s Year 8 pupils received offers from a wide variety of senior schools including Loughborough Grammar School, Loughborough High School, Ratcliffe College, Repton School and Trent College. As we all know, academic life is not straightforward for everyone and Grace Dieu has excellent practical support ready at hand, along with unstinting encouragement.

Outside the classroom the varied curriculum ensures that pupils play hard too. Extensive on-site sporting facilities and match fixtures make life busy and enjoyable for pupils and families, in addition to four choirs and orchestral performances.

For further information call 01530 222276 or visit their website at www.gracedieu.com

Open Days: Thursday 26 September 10am - 3pm Saturday 28 September 9.30am -12pm

Grace Dieu Manor School

Open days: Thursday 3 October 6pm - 8pm tuesday 12 november 9:30am - 12pm

Our Lady’s Convent School

O

ur Lady’s Convent School (OLCS), Loughborough, firmly believe that happy, stimulated children learn more and consequently, their staff endeavour to provide a cheerful, family environment where pupils are stretched not stressed. Small class sizes are guaranteed and the school welcomes boys and girls from age 3 to 11 and a girls’ only Senior School (11-16) and Sixth Form (16 to 18).

In Year 7 girls progress from the co-educational Primary into a single sex senior school, where they are joined by peers from local primary schools. The smooth transition from Year 6 to 7 is well managed to give students the best possible opportunity to settle quickly into the friendly new environment. A noteworthy feature of the senior school and Sixth Form is the carefully crafted balance between hard work and opportunities to get involved in a range of extra-curricular activities, House events and curriculum enhancing visits.

With a long tradition of providing an holistic approach to education where students are encouraged and challenged to perform to their best abilities; the School’s strong academic results reflect how well students of all ages respond to this approach.

In addition to the open evening, tours can be arranged, providing the opportunity to meet with students, staff and the Headteacher.

For more information call 01509 638280 or visit their website at www.olcs.leics.sch.uk

www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

- 45 Education and Fulfilment through Challenge and Support

Open Events

OLCS Independent Day School (3-18)

W

ant to get into the devilish spirit but don’t fancy trick or treating?

Then get the family down to Kelmarsh Hall this All Hallows’ Eve for some frighteningly good fun.

Thursday, 3rd October 2013 Open Evening, 6pm - 8pm

Tuesday, 12th November 2013

Situated 5 miles south of Market Harborough on the Northants border, Kelmarsh Hall is more used to hosting weddings and special events, but will make a hauntingly impressive transformation in order to stage a Halloween Party on Thursday 31st October. With bats flying overhead and owls hooting in the darkness, the grounds of this Grade II listed country house that dates back to 1732 will act as the perfect backdrop for some spooky stories and ghostly walks.

A candlelit storytelling session led by a professional storyteller will provide terrifying tales to keep children on the edge of their seats and the entertainment will continue with ghost walks through the woodland area, apple-bobbing style activities, face-painting, crafts and more.

Open Morning, 9.30am - 12 noon • • • •

Co-educational Nursery and Primary School (3–11) Girls only Senior and Sixth Form (11–18) Central Loughborough location (off Park Road) Personalised guided tours, no appointment necessary • Talk to our Headteacher and staff • See at first hand the enriched curriculum we offer • Hear what our students have to say about life at OLCS

The Halloween Party takes place from 5pm to 8pm and tickets are £7.50 per child, which includes refreshments and all activities. Entry is free for children aged five and under and children must be supervised at all times. Some activities will be outside so remember to wrap up warm and prepare for some surprises along the way!

Creepy Creations

Booking is essential, so call 01604 686543 to guarantee your place! www.kelmarsh.com

Keep the children entertained this Halloween with these fiendishly fun colour-in masks Available in packs of two (Skull & Pumpkin) and priced at £3.99, children can add their own creepy creative touches using felt pens, crayons, pencils and other art supplies. www.eggnogg.co.uk www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

For more information or to request a prospectus please contact Our Lady’s Convent School, Gray Street, Loughborough LE11 2DZ

Tel: 01509 263901 Web: www.OLCS.leics.sch.uk Member of ISA

dluxe family

Halloween at Kelmarsh Hall!

dluxe paperwork

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East Looks East

In the East Midlands strong community links with the Indian subcontinent are providing prospects for inward investment.

Business editor Caroline Spence investigates.

Research & Development from Top Flight Universities attract Trade Visit

A

delegation of CEOs of Indian businesses and business leaders from the region were on campus at the University of Loughborough recently at an event hosted by the School of Business and Economics.

The event was part of a longer visit to the UK which began on the 9th June, and was part of addressing the Confederation of Indian Industry’s two-fold agenda: (1) exploring ways to enhance economic ties between India and the UK; and (2) identifying collaborative measures to help each other in the current volatile economic climate.

Organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), the Indo British Trade Council (IBTC) and UK Trade and Investment (UKTI), the event comprised a panel discussion at the School on India-UK business, followed by a tour of the internationally acclaimed R&D centres on campus, including the Additive Manufacturing Centre, Intelligent Energy and the Sports Technology Centre.

Moderated by Dr Samir Dani and Professor Jim Saker, the event was well attended and also included Mr Deep Kapuria, Chairman, Hi-Tech Group; Mr Shankar Vanavarayar, President Kamaraguru College of Technology; Mr Alok Kirloskar, Managing Director, SPP Pumps; Mr T T Ashok, Managing Director, Taylor Rubber Private Limited and Dr. Gunveena Chadha, UK Director of CII. The keynote address by Mr Gopalakrishnan (President of the CII and Executive Vice Chairman of Infosys) focussed on ‘Accelerating Economic Growth through Innovation, Transformation, Inclusion and Governance’; and the panel discussion was on ‘IndustryAcademic Partnerships and the Future of Advanced Manufacturing’.

Jim Saker said: “The School takes great pride in its partnerships with regional business, from delivering executive education programmes and student placements to collaborating with organisations on research and consultancy projects, and this visit by LABA and the CII reinforces the importance of Asian and Leicestershire companies in the UK’s economy and globally. The School is committed to strengthening its partnerships with regional business, underpinned by the key role our Dean played in the recent Lord Young report on supporting local SMEs, and in our international scope, with visits later this year to five cities in India.”

The Director General of CII, Mr Chandrajit Banerjee, said that the link between the Midlands and India is essential for Indian SMEs and MSMEs to benefit from the manufacturing expertise and innovation available in the companies here.

Mr Gopalakrishnan said that they were delighted to visit the Midlands, and he confirmed that in order to strengthen links between the Midlands and India and to facilitate business opportunities for SMEs and MSMEs in both the Midlands and India, the CII will open its first office outside London in the Midlands, in the Head office of the Leicestershire Asian Business Association (LABA).

The President of LABA, Mr. Jaspal Minhas, was delighted by this news and said that: “it is a very important development and will immensely benefit SMEs and MSMEs in the Midlands to link up with Indian companies for mutual benefit”.

This news was also welcomed by the Chairman of Leicestershire County Council Mrs Rosita Page, CC, and Mr David Slater, the Leader of Charnwood Borough Council, who were also present at the event.

Air India Back in the Midlands For the last four years, Uday Dholakia from the Leicester Asian Business Association has been on a mission to bring Air India flights back to the Midlands. As an official ambassador for Birmingham Airport, Uday has been mobilising the Indian-origin community in the East and West Midlands, collecting over 20,000 signatures in the process. On 1st August, Uday’s dream became a reality, as the inaugural flight from Amritsar and Delhi arrived in Birmingham. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner flies direct between Birmingham and Delhi then onto Amritsar in the Punjabi homeland.

The new route will provide Business Class facilities to rival any in the marketplace, not only opening up important trading opportunities for the region, but also allowing the 300,000 people of Indian origin who reside in the region to visit friends and family.

Flights will operate each Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, arriving into Birmingham at 1900 and departing again at 2130. Birmingham is only the second UK airport to operate dedicated Boeing 787 scheduled services. Bookings can be made at www.airindia.com www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

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April 2014 will see small to medium businesses begin to roll out the government’s Automatic Enrolment Workplace Pension scheme. Leicester firm, Newby Castleman (Financial Services) Limited, look at how the system will work and what your employer needs to do for you.

Auto Enrolment – Are you in?

A workplace pension is a way of saving for retirement arranged by your employer. It is sometimes called a ‘company pension’, an ‘occupational pension’ or a ‘workplace pension’ and, thanks to legislation introduced in October 2012, up to 11 million workers will be automatically enrolled into one.

L

ife expectancy in the UK is increasing and at the same time people are saving less into pensions. In 1901 there were 10 people working for every pensioner in the UK. In 2010 there were 3 people working for every pensioner. By 2050 it is expected that this will change to just 2 workers so there is clearly a problem here that needs to be addressed.

For some companies, auto enrolment began in October 2012.

However, to help businesses prepare for the administration changes and costs of auto enrolment, it is being introduced in stages, based on the number of employees a business has. By 2018, all employers will be required to auto enrol their employees into a qualifying scheme.

From April 2014 to April 2017, if you work for a company with less than 250 employees, your Employer will automatically enrol you into a workplace pension if you: • • • •

are not already in a qualifying pension scheme are aged 22 or over are under State Pension age earn more than £9,440 a year (this figure is reviewed annually and work or usually work in the UK.

If you opt out within one month from the day you officially become a member of the scheme, any payments made by you will be refunded. If you choose to opt out after this period, depending on the scheme, the payments already made may not be refunded and will remain in your pension scheme until you retire.

If you opt out or stop saving into your employer’s pension scheme but later decide you want to join again, you can do so, once in every twelve month period. If you do opt out then your employer has a duty to automatically enrol you back into the pension scheme at regular intervals, usually every three years.

Information available for you: People can feel confused about pension saving but you can find out more about how automatic enrolment into a workplace pension might affect you by contacting Matt Raine at Newby Castleman (Financial Services) Ltd on 0116 2549262. Information is also available on the Directgov website: www.gov.uk/workplacepensions.

Newby Castleman (Financial Services) Limited is an appointed representative of Greyfriars Asset Management LLP which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

(FINANCIAL SERVICES) LIMITED

How much will I be expected to contribute?

The minimum contribution level is based on qualifying earnings.

Depending on the definition of earnings your employer elects to use the total contribution into a pension scheme will between 7% and 9%. This means your contribution, your employer’s contribution and tax relief added together.

To allow employers to spread the cost they can, if they wish, phase in the minimum contributions as shown in the table below.

Date:

Total must be at least You must contribute

Oct 2013 - Sept 2017

2%

1%

Oct 2017 - Sept 2018

5%

3%

Oct 2018 Onwards

8%

5%

In October 2012, new legislation was introduced that means all employers with at least one worker in the UK will need to automatically enrol certain members of their workforce into a qualifying pension scheme. Enrolment stages depends on the number of employees you have.

At Newby Castleman we are holding a series of Auto-Enrolment seminars offering advice to employers on workplace pension schemes and what their new legal duties and responsibilities will be.

Price is just £50 + VAT or FREE to existing clients.

To book your place, or for more information about our seminars, please email auto-enrol@newbyc.co.uk.

Alternatively, please contact our in-house expert Matt Raine on 0116 254 9262 or email him at mor@newbyc.co.uk

How much pension can I expect when I retire?

Most people will be automatically enrolled into a Defined Contribution scheme or money purchase scheme. This means that all the contributions paid into your pension are invested until you retire. The amount of money you have when you retire depends on how much has been paid in and how well investments have performed. In most schemes when you retire you can take some of your pension as a tax free lump sum and take the rest as a regular income.

PLACES ARE LIMITED!

Opting out of a workplace pension You can opt out of a workplace pension at any time, but if you do, you will lose out on the employer contribution and tax relief from the government.

BOOK NOW

www.newbycastleman.co.uk

www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

dluxe paperwork

Is Your Pension Being Planned?

dluxe motors

A3

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TIMES LUCKY.

Quality, efficiency and technological ingenuity are three things that are almost taken as read with Audi. With the new A3 Saloon, which marks the brand’s first foray into the compact saloon class, the Bavarian automobile giants have added a fourth notch to their belt; beauty.

The styling of the Saloon is far more pleasing to the eye than that of its two predecessors in the A3 family with a well-proportioned, compact profile complemented by short overhangs and expertly sculpted lines, topped off with sharp rear lights that give the car an almost futuristic presence. The interior too, is leaps and bounds ahead of anything in the A3 Saloon’s price bracket boasting a huge 425 litres of boot space with the seats in place and more than ample rear legroom. In fact, when cocooned inside the car you could be forgiven for feeling as if nothing could ever go wrong such is the solid and robust nature of its construction and, thanks to an interior design and innovative use of material that oozes opulence and class, you could be quite easily fooled into thinking you were driving an A6.

However, as with books, you cannot judge a car solely by its cover and beneath the bonnet you’ll find the nuts, bolts and pistons that make up the pages of this modern-day masterpiece. Available in three high tech formats at launch, at entry level is the 1.4 TFSI, which utilises Cylinder-on-Demand technology to deliver a seriously impressive 60.1mpg whilst it’s 250Nm torque peak mean you’ll be sailing to 62mph in 8.4 seconds before reaching a top end of 135mph where conditions allow. The next step up is the 1.8 TFSI, which offers a reduced mpg at 50.4 but

www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

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As for the actual drive itself, once behind the wheel the A3 Saloon won’t actually feel much different to any other A3, but that is by no means a negative thing. Sturdy and strong, the A3 Saloon is extremely refined at motorway speeds and actually puts many cars that cost tens of thousands of pounds more to shame. It’s intuitive drive select system allows you to alter the handling and response of the car with the touch of a button, giving you the choice between comfort, dynamic, auto, efficiency and individual depending on how you want to drive. That said, the ride can be a tad firm at times owing to the sports suspension fitted in both the Sport and S line versions but thankfully, both can be specified to include more comfort-orientated standard suspension for no extra cost if this tiny niggle worries you.

to a new level in the A3 Saloon, delivering not only Google Maps, Google Street View, Audi traffic information online and Audi music stream, but now also provides ‘Picturebook Navigation’, access to social media such as Facebook and Twitter, the latest news, flight and train information, nearby petrol stations graded by price and even a ‘what’s on’ guide in specific towns and cities, all on the high resolution 7-inch WGVA colour screen of the car’s Multi Media Interface. There are also a dizzying array of comfort, convenience and aesthetic extras, allowing you to upgrade to 19-inch alloys (you know you want to), panoramic sunroof and a Bang & Olufsen audio system amongst a host of others.

Contrary to what Damon Albarn sang almost 10 years ago, it actually is all about Vorsprung durch Technik and Audi’s mantra of ‘Advancement through Technology’ is adhered to as strictly as ever, with the A3 Saloon offering a stunning range of cost effective optional equipment packages that promise some of the most advanced interactivity available on the road. Audi connect, the collective term the company uses to encompass all technologies that connect the driver to the internet is taken

Thanks to a subtle redesign the A3 Saloon has a dominating presence on the road and its powerful yet economical engine makes it a worthy competitor in the compact saloon class.

The Audi A3 Saloon starts at £24,275, visit Leicester Audi, 212 Narborough Road South, Leicester, LE3 2LD. Tel: 0116 282 8200 www.audi.co.uk

www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

dluxe motors

“Sturdy and strong, the A3 Saloon is extremely refined.”

YOUR AUDI, YOUR WAY!

makes up with a blistering top speed of 146mph; and at the top of the pile sits the 2.0 litre TDI, which produces a staggering 320Nm of torque to power it to 137mph, and is capable of an extremely economical 68.9mpg. All come with a choice of trim levels and if you add £2,150 to the OTR price of each car, you could be relaxing in the S line version, surrounded by partleather upholstery embossed with the S line logo, a sports steering wheel and xenon headlights, all sitting atop 18-inch alloy wheels.

dluxe travel

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Vive La France With British tourists’ love affair with France showing no signs of abating, dluxe LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND dusted off its phrasebook and set about a summer of rediscovery En France

Driving Through France

WherE tO Stay

France is a huge country full of different characters and climates making it the perfect location for a driving holiday. This summer dluxe LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND’s Jonathan Fraser packed up the car and took the tunnel to France to see just what makes driving through France such a great choice for a variety filled vacation.

One of the best ways to enjoy France and to experience its different regions and characters is by staying in one of the many Chambre D’hôtes for one or two nights along your journey. Chambre D’hôtes are basically private homes with rooms to let and as a result you can stay in some remarkable locations from Chateaus and medieval towers to converted stables and farmhouses. Breakfast is traditionally served around the kitchen table and it’s a great way to practice your French.

When booking a night always ask your host to book you into a good local restaurant, allowing you to tap straight into local knowledge and make some marvellous discoveries. A great place to discover Chambres D’hôtes in France is www. chambresdhotesfrance.com

Getting Across the Water The introduction of the Channel Tunnel has resulted in far more UK residents choosing a driving holiday. The crossing is simplicity itself; pull off the motorway, check in, drive onto the train and just 35 minutes later you drive off straight on to the motorway at Calais. For those who like a spot of shopping there’s a duty free style shop and cafés to enjoy before setting off and there are exercise areas for pets in case you’ve brought them with you (don’t forget their passports and pre-holiday vaccinations!) It’s cheap too with crossings starting at just £43 each way.

Alternatively, why not take the ferry? Prices for a car start at just £37 with P&O from Dover to Calais but the crossing does take 90 minutes and pets must stay in the car. www.eurotunnel.com / www.poferries.com

The Roads & ThE Law The first thing to do is remember to drive on the other side of the road. Speed limits and distances are displayed in kilometres rather than miles so remember to consult the right digits on your car’s dials or divide the number of kilometres by 1.6 to give you guidance as to mileage.

French law dictates that all vehicles must carry certain pieces of safety equipment which include a warning triangle, spare set of vehicle bulbs, a hi visibility vest for the driver and for each passenger as well two breathalyser kits. Failure

to carry these items can result in an on the spot fine, as can driving using your mobile phone. Make sure hi visibility jackets are stored inside the car’s cabin rather than the boot - you may get fined otherwise.

An essential piece of equipment for anyone considering driving through France is an up to date Sat Nav. For under £100, the latest Tom Tom Western European range of satellite navigation systems allows users to not only plot routes in advance but also to avoid particular roads or areas such as Paris. Most French motorways are subject to toll charges but these can be avoided by plotting your route in the sat nav, although it should be noted that the tolls do generally mean roads are fast and free of congestion.

It’s always wise to ensure your car is at least half full of fuel when driving through France, particularly if you plan to journey through the countryside. Petrol stations can be few and far between off the main routes and running out of petrol does not a happy holiday make. Fuel is a little cheaper in France and the motorway services (known as Aire are regular and offer excellent quality food; better than many UK restaurants. www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

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Planning your route The beauty of driving through France is that you can tailor the type of holiday you’d like based on what route you take through the country.

For those who prefer a more traditional hotel experience there are many interesting places to stay. A great place to discover unusual hotels in France is www.simplychateau. com and www.mrandmrssmith.com Or why not get back to get back to nature, as there are a plethora of good quality campsites in France offering everything a holidaying family could want. There are also a multitude of Municipal campsites spread across France situated close to tourist attractions. These offer good quality amenities and are great value, usually at under €15 a night. To view over 11,000 campsites in France, visit www.campingfrance.com/uk

“Dogs are welcome at most places in France even inside museums and chateaus if carried.”

Bordeaux: The perfect blend.

W

orld famous for its wines that are blended from a combination of nine grape varieties, Bordeaux is experiencing something of a renaissance as a wider tourist destination. dluxe LEICESTERSHIRE AND RUTLAND’S Caroline Spence went to find out more.

AREA

Like the delicious raspberry gateau I ate on the first day of my trip, Bordeaux is a mouth-watering combination of layers; peel back one and another is there to be devoured. From world class food and drink to fascinating and charming rural towns, Bordeaux and the Aquitaine region is almost a perfect model of a weekend break destination.

focus

Fancy a romantic weekend in Paris, followed by exploring some amazing countryside, a boozy few days in some vineyards finishing with some down time on the beach? Then simply drive from Calais via Ile de France through Burgundy and Auvergne and end up in Languedoc.

How about a historical adventure followed by a relaxing few days by the water, a tour of some historic houses and a few more days on the beach before a trip to Paris and home? Simply plot your route through Normandy, into Brittany then Pays de Loire before Ile de France and home.

The possibilities are endless making driving through France the perfect holiday choice for those that like a spot of variety in their vacation. For inspiration and advice on planning your route, visit www.innsoffrance.com

The 18th century architecture creates an elegant backdrop to bustling cafes, sophisticated restaurants and stylish boutiques as the impossibly glamorous and bohemian residents parade up and down the city’s streets, squares and riverside promenade.

The city is a UNESCO recognised World Heritage site, with beautiful squares, cathedrals and buildings telling the story of a complex civil history. The region’s most famous daughter, Eleanor of Aquitaine, married first the French king and then the English monarch putting the region under British rule for almost 300 years, giving it a uniquely English flavour.

But Bordeaux is not just about the wine, quaint towns dot the landscape and huddle beside the rivers that are the lifeblood of the area. With an estuary that spans 12km at its widest point, the Gironde river is made up of the Dordogne and the Garonne rivers, is partially salt water and tidal. The river provided an essential trading route and made Bordeaux a huge centre for import and export in Western Europe, the main commodity being of course wine.

FACT FILE:

www.bordeaux-tourisme.com For wine lovers: Run by the local wine industry Bar a Vin provides an informal setting in which to try the local wines and chow down on regional cheese and bread. www.baravin.bordeaux.com.

For history lovers: Pair Non Pair is a cave hidden in the Aquitaine countryside that contains the oldest cave art in France dated at around 30,000 years old. Pair-nonpair@monuments-nationaux.fr.

For foodies: La Tupina is a fine restaurant with a glamorous clientele (rumoured to include former president Jacques Chirac) with a range of local specialities including duck, foie gras and white asparagus. www.Latupina.com.

For partying: Sitting opposite each other on the Rue Saint-Remi, cafe Brun and Cafe Rouge provide a wide selection of wine and cocktails in a more informal nocturnal environment. www.bar-pub-bordeaux.com.

For location: Try the surprisingly nice 3-Star Hotel Majestic for around €100 per night. It is right in the city centre within walking distance of all major landmarks. For the lazy, try the new tram service €1.40 for a single journey. www.hotel-majestic.com/en.

For value: Fly from Birmingham airport direct to Bordeaux in an hour and a half with Monarch Airlines from £39.99 one way. www.Monarch.co.uk.

For style: Start your trip at the No.1 Traveller Lounge – Birmingham. www.No1Traveller.com www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

dluxe travel

If you prefer a little more privacy or plan to stay for a longer period, renting a Gîte allows you to still benefit from having someone around with some local knowledge. A Gîte is a holiday home which is available for rent and where the owner lives nearby, usually on the same plot of land. Usually self-catering, Gîtes tend to be created from disused outbuildings and barns and offer a wonderfully individual holiday experience. It’s not unusual for linens to not be included in Gîtes so always remember to check when you book. A great place to discover Gîtes in France is www.gites.co.uk

dluxe travel

Toulouse: Art, history and the perfect French shopping destination.

AREA

focus

Known as the Pink City due to the hue of the local stone, Toulouse boasts a mix of wonderful architecture, from the wooden medieval to the perfectly planned 18th century facades of the main shopping areas writes David Leach Davies.

We arrived on Midsummer’s night, a night known across France as the Night of Music.

Ambling through the city’s, streets we mingled with the musicians and dancers who celebrated the festival on every street corner until the early hours of the morning and the mixture of genres reflected the many facets of Toulouse’s offering; from its history to its art and architecture.

Ever the consumer, I was particularly struck by the city’s plethora of stylish shops. From famous French designers such as John-Paul Gaultier and Louis Vuitton to small, quirky, independent boutiques, the wide avenues of the city have a decidedly Parisian feel to them which, when combined with the welcoming and friendly atmosphere that the South of France is known for, makes them the perfect destination for a spot of retail therapy.

Naturally for France, foodies are well catered for in Toulouse. Expect Foie Gras to appear on most menus thanks to the Toulouse breed of goose being the most popular for Foie Gras production. Also expect to enjoy some marvellous wines from the local regions (the vineyards of Toulouse are situated in the foothills of the Pyrenees).

Where to Visit

Where to Stay

fact file:

The Capitole: The current city hall, orchestra and opera house. This building is remarkable for its façade with eight pink marble columns, its Henri IV courtyard and the “Salle des Illustres” where golden mouldings compete with the beauty of the paintings themselves.

Citiz Hotel: A modern 4 star hotel in the very heart of Toulouse offering 56 elegant and modern rooms in a contemporary design setting. Ideally positioned in the old city centre, facing Wilson Square, and within walking distance of Capitole Square, the Citiz Hotel will allow you to make the most of the Pink City.

Saint-Sernin Basilica: A masterpiece of Roman art, the Saint-Sernin Basilica features mural paintings from the 12th Century.

The Jacobins Convent: The contrast between the austere exterior and the extraordinary lightness of the interior architecture makes this a must see destination.

The Hôtel d’Assézat: A magnificent 17th century town mansion which houses the Fondation Bemberg, a private museum with a permanent collection of paintings, bronzes and objets d’art.

www.citizhotel.com

How to Get There

The Augustins Museum: Rich in sculptures, the Musée des Augustins has a unique collection of masterpieces from the area’s Gothic era as well as numerous 19th Century sculptures.

bmi regional fly daily excluding Saturdays to Toulouse from Birmingham International Airport. For more information visit www.bmiregional.com www.toulouse-visit.com / www.tourisme-midi-pyrenees.com

Cité de l’espace: Take a trip to discover Mars, the fabulous red planet, try Moon Running and visit the Planetarium.

A Beginner’s Guide to the regions of France

Alsace - The Germanic region of France offering a very different feel.

Aquitaine - Wine region with Bordeaux as its capital.

Auvergne - Perfect for outdoor adventurers thanks to a landscape of hills and valleys.

Normandie - One of the great historic regions of France.

Burgundy - Home to the Burgundy vineyards and

well positioned between Paris and Lille.

Brittany - In the northwest corner of France, Brittany has a strong celtic heritage.

Centre - Home to the Loire valley and some of France’s greatest and grandest Chauteaus.

Champagne - Home to the world’s most wonderful drink.

Franche-Comte - A beautiful rural area, perfect to escape the pressures of daily life.

Ile-de-France - The wealthiest and most iconic region of France- Paris.

Languedoc-Roussillon - The central region of Southern France

and an essential tourist destination.

Limousin - France’s smallest region and the least populated that

offers a unique mix of tradition and charm.

Lorraine - Home to quiche and Joan of Arc. The capital Metz is one of France’s oldest cities.

Midi-Pyrenees - A rural region with Toulouse as its capital.

Nord-Pas-de-Calais - Covering most of what was Flandres and main point of entry into France.

Pays de la Loire - Home to Nantes and the seaside resort of Les Sables d’Olonne in Vendee.

Picardie - An area of rich architectural and historical interest and home to the Battle of the Somme.

Poitou-Charentes - One of the sunniest coastlines in France and home to La Rochelle from Tricolor textbook fame.

Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur - Home to some of France’s most popular tourist destinations - the clue’s in the name.

Rhone - Alpes - One of the largest regions of France and the destination for winter sports fans.

Flying to three destinations from Birmingham.

Look into them.

All from

The UK’s most punctual airline offers a 30-minute check-in, free inflight food and drink and a generous luggage allowance on an all-jet fleet.

Book today at bmiregional.com Fare quoted is Economy fare. Subject to terms, conditions and availablity.

one way

HEALTH - 54 -

T

he zeal with which we stepped up our pre-holiday workout routines may well have fallen by the wayside. And who can blame us really? At the end of the day, working out can become a tedious chore. Here to rectify our seasonal setbacks is Jenn Zerling, author of Breaking the Chains of Obesity, who promises a fun yet effective workout with minimal equipment.

Plank Hockey

you to work on coordination, and compound movements that strengthen both your upper and lower body at the same time.

Crunch Ball Pass

Side Plank It’s time to be a kid again. Get yourself a small ball and make your way into a plank position.

Your hands go directly under your shoulders and balance on your toes with a wide stance.

One person takes the ball and tries to score points by rolling it through the arms of your partner. Remember to block your opponent’s shots and the first to 10 wins the round. Try and keep your spine and bum in line as much as possible to work every muscle in the body from head to toe, including your mind!

Throw Catch

Start in a side plank with your backs together, place the bottom hand directly in line with your shoulder for a strong foundation and cross the top leg in front of the other for better stability. Lift your hips to create a curve under your side body and engage your obliques and core muscles. Take a bean bag or small ball, reach up and give it your partner while slightly externally rotating through the top shoulder.

Once your partner grabs it, reach underneath your bottom arm to get it back and repeat the exercise for 7 or 12 reps before switching roles Perform four sets with 10 seconds rest in-between.

Patty Cake Another throwback but who doesn’t like a game of catch? Pick up a medicine ball and nominate one person to go first. They should then squat down with a straight back, knees aligned over the toes as their partner rolls the ball to them. Pick up the ball, push upwards to a standing position and throw the ball with both hands before resuming the squat position.

Perform four sets of 25 reps, swapping roles half way through each set. This exercise allows

Get into a deep squat with your bum back and knees aligned over your ankles. Make sure the knees track in the same direction that your toes point to help protect the knees and avoid injury. Lift your chest up slightly so that you can see your partner, but keep your core super tight throughout the set.

Staying in a static squat, reach across the body to the same hand of your partner and hit hands 15-25 times all the time remaining in a static squat with good body alignment. www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

Starting in a seated position, interlock your feet with your partner and create a 90 degree bend in both knees. Take a medicine ball and have one person bring the ball down into full extension lifting the ball either overhead or to the chest. Take your time on the way down and be sure to engage the core, lowering one vertebra at a time. Pass the ball to each other as you come up and alternate between who is holding the ball for each rep. Inhale on the way down and exhale as you crunch up, keeping your neck neutral at all times to emphasise the core.

WE LOVE...

Biltong

A type of cured meat originating in South Africa, biltong is similar to beef jerky and is becoming increasingly popular thanks to it’s incredibly high levels of protein and low calorie and fat content

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Separating the Men from the Boys

Over the years, yoga has been very much seen as an activity exclusive to women and, whilst that particular perception is changing at a rate of knots, there are still those whose thoughts drift to spiritualism and leotards at the very mention of yoga.

“It’s a workout unlike anything experienced before.”

H

owever, there is a form of yoga that is quickly quashing the concept of yoga being ‘for girls’ and has been practiced by some of the region’s most masculine athletes – 10-time rugby union champions of England, Leicester Tigers.

Leicester Tigers director of rugby, Richard Cockerill; himself a former hooker for both club and country, was introduced to Bikram Yoga in the city by his former assistant, Matt O’Connor.

“I used to take the mick out of him (O’Connor) something terrible, because ‘yoga’s for girls’,” he reveals, but after heading down to Friar Lane for a class he admits “it’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done. I have a bit of a thing with my back from my playing days and the stretching and competitiveness of getting through it was really good. It gives me the same buzz that I used to get from a training session as a player, but without the collisions!”

Tigers’ last visit as a team to Leicester’s Bikram Yoga studio came prior to their Premiership Final victory over Northampton Saints at Twickenham last May. Centre Anthony Allen was one of over 20 players to take part in the class, revealing that it’s a workout unlike anything experienced before.

“It’s awesome, but very tough. It’s not so much the postures or positions, which we do a little of at the training ground. It’s the heat making it ten-times harder. A lot of the guys are saying that it’s the hardest thing that they’ve done in terms of training sessions, because it’s so hot. We’re not used to it in England!”

Leicester City Football Club also utilise the services of Bikram on a case by case basis to help rehabilitate injured players and the Leicester Riders have made initial enquiries about incorporating Bikram Yoga into their training. So there you have it, you’ve heard it from the cream of Leicester’s sporting talent and, bearing in mind our exclusive offer giving you 30 days of yoga for just £20, what other endorsement do you need?

Bikram Yoga is @ 59 Friar Lane, Leicester, LE1 5RB. Tel: 0116 261 9262 www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

THE FACTS: Bikram Yoga is practiced in a room heated to 40°c with a humidity of 40% The classes consist of 26 specific and controlled set postures.

There are two breathing exercises performed in Bikram Yoga.

Classes span 90-minutes, the heat allows for a safer and deeper stretch.

During Bikram negative toxins in the body are released through sweat.

dluxe health

LEICESTER TIGERS TRY BIKRAM YOGA FOR SIZE

dluxe dining

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A YOUR DOOR Taste of Italy Delivered To

W

hilst we may all love the idea of leisurely perusing artisan produce markets, taking in each stall’s wares before selecting which gourmet ingredients to take home for the night’s feast, who in the real world has time to do this? Put the Dolmio back in the cupboard because you do! Or at least you do now, all thanks to Italy in a Box, the recently launched Italian food delivery service.

Founded by a passionate team of UK based Italian foodies headed by Simone Luciani, the concept grew out of wanting to share their enthusiasm for high quality Italian delicacies. Simone and the team offer to travel the length and breadth of Italy, visiting some of the country’s finest independent producers in order to handpick the best products and delicacies, many of which would not be available in the UK otherwise, and deliver them to your door in a neat and tidy package, all for just £35.

In addition to the five or six products that make up the package of provisions, you’ll also receive recipes so that you can reproduce authentic Italian dishes at home.

Authenticity will be something that lies at the heart of all the recipes included as they convey the secrets of regional Italian cooking and aim to show us all that with the right ingredients, a little time, effort and love we can all rustle up some outstanding Italian meals to enjoy at home with family and friends – just like the Italians do! And who are we to argue? After all, you know what they say: when in Rome…

To find out more go to www.italyinabox.co.uk

Summer

of Love It’s well and truly been a Summer of Love for artisan bakery and wedding cake specialists Gardners Cakery with the team creating over 70 elaborate and individual wedding cakes in August alone! There’s no time for the team to dust down their pinnies however, both the Market Harborough store and the Kingsthorpe bakery will be working at full capacity way into the autumn as wedding season is set to continue well into October.

Two Leicestershire restaurants are launching a new hi-tech loyalty programme for their customers which offers savings on food and drinks purchases made on future visits.

Canalside eateries The Foxton Locks Inn at Foxton Locks and the Waterfront Restaurant at Union Wharf in Market Harborough launched the scheme to reward their regular diners as well as to encourage new visitors.

Hi-tech

restaurant loyalty scheme launched for local diners

Anyone visiting either establishment can ask for a free loyalty card which enables the holder to an additional £1 for every £10 they spend on food and drinks. Similar in design to a credit card, it is swiped on each visit to earn points which can then be set against their bill on future visits. There is no time limit on spending the reward balance.

To find out more visit www.thewaterfrontrestaurant.co.uk.

Recent creations have included a tower of cupcakes and a tiered cake including Bird Cages and Cascading Roses.

To see more creations, visit www. gardnerscakery.co.uk or visit the shop at 8b Church Street, Market Harborough. LE16 7AA Tel. 01858 468042

www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

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dluxe dining

Let Them Eat Cake!

With ‘The Great British Bake Off’ well and truly in full swing, we’ve got the perfect teatime TV treats to accompany all of Sue and Mel’s baking innuendo, Paul’s withering looks, Mary’s consoling words and the contestants looks of complete panic. Enjoy!

Strawberry and White Chocolate Muffins To make 12 muffins you will need:

PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS TO OVER 50,000 OF THE REGION’S MOST AFFLUENT AND INFLUENTIAL - 15 -

What to do: Pre-heat the oven to 170°C. Place 12 muffin cases in a muffin tray.

Melt the butter in a saucepan with the sugar. Mix well. Take off the heat and add the milk, eggs and vanilla.

Sift the flour and baking powder into the mixture quite quickly, using just 10 strokes to fold in.

Stir in the strawberry pieces and chocolate buttons. Spoon the mixture into the muffin cases and bake for 25 minutes, till golden brown on top and springy to the touch. Cool on a wire rack. www.sweetevestrawberry.co.uk

vive la

Ingredients: * * * * * * * * *

120g butter 120g soft brown sugar 150ml milk 2 medium eggs Seeds of one vanilla pod 250g plain flour ½ tbsp baking powder 60g white chocolate buttons 100g Strawberries, diced into small pieces

FRANCE TRAVEL SPECIAL

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dluxe diary

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diary Leicester International Music Festival 19 – 22 September @ various venues around Leicester Rooted in Leicester’s strong musical tradition, the festival is largely a celebration of chamber music and has been entertaining loyal crowds for a quarter of a century. Attracting regional, national and international recognition for the high quality musical performances it provides, year upon year the festival works with some of the finest established and upcoming musicians around, including Leicester Symphony Orchestra with Sir Malcolm Sargent, The Bach Choir with Kathleen Ferrier and the Leicestershire Schools Symphony Orchestra with Sir Michael Tippett. Go to their website for full event listings www.leicesterinternationalmusicfestival.org.uk

www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

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Highcross Hits Five!

This summer saw the 5th Robbie’s Rugby Festival, an annual event that raises money for The Robbie Anderson Cancer Trust and The Jake McCarthy Foundation.

Both lads lost their lives tragically at a young age and the Rugby Festival acts as a way to ensure their memory lives on.

Old Boys of the Loughborough Endowed Schools from 1988 to present joined forces to compete against a number of local teams in a good-natured rugby 10s tournament. As well as the showpiece tournament, there were also gift stalls, a BBQ and live music to generate a proper festival atmosphere. Robbie’s Rugby Festival continues to grow with this year’s event pulling in a crowd of 1200, raising over £10,000 for the two charities.

Pavement artists, Bhangra dancers and the Jaipur Kawa Brass Band were on hand to entertain local VIPs, staff and shoppers as they joined together to kick off a stunning Festival of Colour in celebration of Highcross Leicester’s 5th birthday.

The festivities will carry on throughout the month of September and Highcross have called for the people of Leicester to upload snaps to Facebook, Twitter and Instagram documenting their ‘life in colour’. Use #Highcross5 to ensure your images make it into a dazzling collage on display in Highcross. The celebrations will culminate with an exclusive fashion show on 28th and 29th September unveiling the must-have trends for AW13.

For more information on Highcross’ birthday celebrations please visit www.highcrossleicester.com

Leicester and Leicestershire LeiceTsa s t eSHIRE ter

BEST OF BRITISH

Celebrate the diversity of Leicestershire food!

21 September to 6 October 2013

To find out more about events taking place across Leicester and Leicestershire visit:

www.leicestershirefoodfortnight.com

Retro Active

21 September @ Phoenix Square Prepare to get your Pac Man on because the UK’s only retro movie and gaming festival returns to Phoenix this September! They’ll be rolling out another 12 hours of classic 80s and 90s cinema plus masses of video games from the last four decades. Head down to have a play on some classic systems and arcade machines and, if you’re feeling competitive you can get involved in one of the tournaments! The film programme includes, Back To The Future, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, Mallrats, Wayne’s World, From Dusk Till Dawn and Demolition Man as voted for by the public.

Leicestershire Food Fortnight

21 September – 6 October @ various venues around Leicestershire Special events, tastings of local produce, demonstrations and great offers are all on the menu from some of the finest eateries the county has to offer at this year’s Leicestershire Food Fortnight. Unleash your inner foodie as you learn how to brew your own beer or try your hand at homemade pasta; failing that you can always let the pros do their work as you sit back and enjoy a locally prepared feast. Go to www.leicestershirefoodfortnight.com for further info! www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

dluxe diary

Rugby For Robbie

dluxe diary

- 60 -

Stones Events Go to the Opera Luxury Leicestershire catering company, Stones Events, was on hand to add extra flavour at Britain’s newest summer opera festival. The Kibworth based company worked closely with the team at Nevill Holt to provide culinary expertise at the Nevill Holt festival. The Magic Flute opera took place in beautiful Market Harborough surroundings over five sold out nights with Stones Events beating off stiff competition to become the first catering company outside of London, to work at the festival. The exclusive boutique caterers who are just as at home at corporate events as they are a garden party pulled out all the stops as they ran a 100-seater pop up restaurant in addition to serving high tea and picnics in the assorted marquees and pavilions. Some of the gourmet delights on offer ranged from roasted quail, beef fillet and half grilled lobster to homemade scones and lollipops, yum!

First Rate Funny

An Exclusive Interview!

Don’t worry, Jason Manford has not run away to join the opera. Despite winning ITV1’s Born To Shine, putting his newfound talent into practice by joining Alfie Boe on tour and then starring in the critically acclaimed West End production of Sweeney Todd , Jason has not forgotten his stand-up roots.

In fact, you will be delighted to hear, the wonderfully gifted comedian is now returning to his first love and embarking on a nationwide tour with his new show, “First World Problems”, which will be at Leicester’s De Montfort Hall 30 September – 1 October.

The performer; a first-rate observational comic who describes his show as “essentially moaning about everyday life, but with punchlines” says the buzz you get from live comedy is unrivalled. “You can’t give it up!” he beams.

Phill Jupitus: You’re Probably Wondering Why I’ve Asked You Here…

9 October @ The Y Theatre

The Rocky Horror Show

Never Mind the Buzzcocks favourite Phill Jupitus brings you a character based comedy unlike anything you have ever seen before! The big man plays the part of three extraordinary characters, namely The Late Vernon Herschel Harley, a legend of stage and screen who died at the age of 114; The Late Kurt Schiffer who was the ‘Korvettenkapitan’ of the U42B out of Hamburg part of the German Navy’s ‘Wolf Packs’ and The Late Phill Jupitus who died on June 24th 2052 on the eve of his 90th birthday. Phill knows his characters inside out, but every night is completely different and entirely depends on the questions the audience ask, so leave your preconceptions at the door, but don’t forget to bring your curiosity!

7 – 12 October @ Curve

Follow squeaky-clean sweethearts Brad and Janet on an adventure they’ll never forget, with the scandalous Frank ‘n’ Furter, rippling Rocky and vivacious Magenta. With Richard O’Brien’s original script, you can bet on fun, frivolity and frocks in abundance in this 40th Anniversary production as the cast deliver timeless classics such as Sweet Transvestite, Damn It Janet and of course, the pelvic thrusting Time Warp. So sharpen those stilettos and get practicing, it’s simple: just a jump to the left, and then a step to the right… www.curveonline.co.uk www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

With stints on 8 out of 10 Cats, QI and A League of Their Own as well as hosting his own shows Show Me the Funny and Comedy Rocks, Jason is no stranger to television but feels that, “overall TV is much, much easier. A lot of the time it’s just professional reading. It’s reading while trying to make it look like you’re not reading.” Stand-up, on the other hand, is much more demanding: “On stage, you’re everything,” Jason continues. “You’re the boss. You’re the performer, writer, editor, director. You’re even Ofcom. You decide what to say. It’s brilliant.”

Jason goes on to explain the title of his new show, “First World Problems”.

“I’d seen the phrase online and liked it; it just sums up so much and I think it emphasises those times when we moan about the most trivial things. It’s as if we invent problems so we have something to moan about. I imagine someone in the third world just thinking that we were all complete idiots!”

Jason Manford will be @ De Montfort Hall 30 September – 1 October. www.demontforthall.co.uk

They were the definition of cool during their Fifties and Sixties Vegas heyday and they’re bringing it all back for 2013. Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jnr will once again be taking to the stage, this time in Loughborough as they combine the full sound of big band swing with charisma, panache and swagger. The Rat Pack had attitude to spare and the UK’s number one tribute concert to the renowned trio features all the patter and razzamatazz of Frank, Dean and Sammy’s live concerts. www.loughboroughtownhall.co.uk

Bill Bailey: Qualmpeddler

14 – 15 October @ De Montfort Hall Oddball comic Bill Bailey will be giving an appraisal of all his qualms with life in the modern world when he stops by in Leicester as part of his national tour. You can be sure to witness all the usual ingredients of a Bailey show including his trademark musical mash-ups, multi-lingual riffs, films, songs, philosophising and, of course, silliness on an epic scale! Watch out for the Religious Dubstep and one amazing owl! www.demontforthall.co.uk

14 – 19 October @ The Little Theatre Henry Pulling is a mild-mannered retired banker, who leads a quiet life and loves nothing more than tending his beloved dahlias. When his eccentric and outrageous Aunt Augusta appears out of the blue with mysterious information about his past, Henry is drawn from the safety of his flower beds into a series of absurd and exotic international adventures. Henry, Aunt Augusta and more than 25 characters are inventively portrayed by just four actors who switch identities, nationalities, ages and genders in this whirlwind theatrical adventure, adapted from the celebrated novel by Graham Greene. www.thelittletheatre.net

LABA Celebrate The Leicester Asian Business Association (LABA) recently staged its celebration of the fairer sex, with its Women’s Awards held at Sturgess Land Rover. The theme for this year’s awards was ‘Unsung Heroes’ with fourteen women from all communities and walks of life being recognised for their achievements. These included candidates from charities, the medical profession, social enterprise and the matriarchs who supported first generation immigrant communities.

Attendees included Margot James MP, Rt Reverend Tim Stevens Bishop of Leicester, Chairman of County Council Rosita Page CC, Rt Honourable Judge Simon Hammond, The Rt Hon’ble Baroness Verma of Leicester, Sir Edward Garnier QC MP, Councillors and Sir Clive Loader, Police Commissioner for Leicestershire and Rutland.

Dread of Night

25 October @ The Guildhall Don’t Go Into The Cellar! brings its latest theatrical fright-show to the stage with Dread of Night, a collection of chilling Edwardian tales of terror, designed solely to raise goosebumps and tingle the spines of old and young. Expect to encounter ghosts, ghouls and other assorted creatures of the night in this brand new show from the country’s leading exponents of stage Victoriana. Are you afraid of things that go bump in the night? Tickets available from The Guildhall or call 0116 253 2569. www.leicester.gov.uk www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

Images by James Canavan

11 October @ Loughborough Town Hall

Travels With My Aunt

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Rat Pack Live

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An Audience with John Motson

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24 October @ The Little Theatre

John is one of the best-known personalities in sports broadcasting. He has been a member of the Match of the Day team for 40 years and is regarded by many as the voice of football.

He will be discussing his long and varied career as a regular commentator on Match of the Day, Grandstand, Football Focus and Five Live, including from 1979 to 2008, when he was the BBC’s voice for the FA Cup, European Championship and World Cup. www.thelittletheatre.net

Bonfire and Fireworks Display 2 November @ Abbey Park

Ok, so the rhyme may not run ‘Remember, remember the 2nd November’ but as Abbey Park’s annual Bonfire Night celebration is the biggest in Leicester, attracting 15,000 visitors, we think we’ll let that one slide. Head down to get your yearly fix of fizz-bang-whizzes and of course the obligatory teethdestroying toffee apples. In addition to the main event there is also a Children’s firework display that is slightly quieter and themed especially for the youngsters!

‘FORE’ For FEMI! The Feeling

29 October @ O2 Academy British pop-rock quintet The Feeling have signed to a new label and are back, bringing with them a new album and a whole new lease of life.

After dominating the airwaves in 2006 with hit singles from their debut album, the boys are now on their fourth long playing outing and despite showing signs of maturity, the new material still has that unmistakable, trademark The Feeling sound. The show had to be rescheduled from April; tickets to the original date are still valid. www.o2academyleicester.co.uk

Femi Health & Beauty of Highcross Street, Leicester celebrated a high profile presence at the Warwickshire-based Celeb-Am and Pro-Am Farmfoods British Par 3 Golf Championship, which marked its 80th year at the luxurious Nailcote Hall this August.

Brought on board to provide beauty and health treatments for players, partners and visitors, Femi was pampering some of the country’s top golfers along with household name celebrities.

Taking part this year were Tony Jacklin CBE (hosting), Ian Woosnam MBE and Sam Torrance OBE, competing for a £100,000 prize pot.

Celebrities who were also swinging their irons included Strictly Come Dancing’s Len Goodman, retired goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel MBE and former F1 driver Johnny Herbert.

Femi Latif, founder of Femi Health & Beauty, said “The Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship gave us a great opportunity to offer our services to new customers. We took a team of technicians and equipment to the tournament to bring a bit of the Femi experience to golf’s finest.”

Femi Health and Beauty is @ 60 Highcross Street, Leicester, L E1 4NN. Tel: 0116 253 2393 www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

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The East Midlands’ most prestigious business group, the Aspirational Club, held an exclusive VIP event at the Rutland Polo Club this summer. Guests at The Berkeley Insurance Group Assam Cup enjoyed all of the polo action as it unfolded, before sampling some delicious food and taking part in a charity auction. The day was also a chance for the businesses involved with the club, such as Bentley, Bentons, Champions (UK) plc, Finesse Hospitality, The Berkeley Insurance Group and Lumbers to meet together and enjoy great hospitality, as well as a chance to build ever stronger business links for the benefit of the East Midlands’ strengthening economy.

For information on fixtures go to www. rutlandpoloclub.co.uk

Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake 4 – 9 November @ Curve

Visionary Choreographer Matthew Bourne brings this crowd pleaser back to Leicester’s Curve this autumn. Matthew’s reinterpretation of this ballet masterwork took the dance world by storm when it premiered in London in 1995 and has now become a certified modern day classic, winning a dizzying amount of awards worldwide. If you thought ballet was all girls in tutus and blokes in tights then think again as this production demolishes conventions and challenges our preconceived notions of what makes a ballet. Unmissable. www.curveonline.co.uk

WIN!

We have a pair of tickets to give away to the opening night!

To enter, go to: www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

The Mousetrap

11 – 16 November @ De Montfort Hall Agatha Christie’s box office smash-hit thriller celebrates its 60th anniversary this year and boasts the impressive accolade of being the longest running show of any kind in the history of British theatre! What’s even better is that it’s going on tour for the first time ever, giving you the once in a lifetime chance to see this murderously mysterious masterpiece when it comes to De Montfort Hall. After a group of people are cut off in a country house by the snow, they learn that a murderer is in their midst. Sordid pasts are uncovered, tension skyrockets and twists and turns abound until the final nerve shredding moment when their identity is revealed.

The Beauty Queen of Leenane 18 October – 19 November @ Curve

Paul Kerryson once again steps into the director’s chair to helm his third production of a Martin McDonagh play. McDonagh has tasted Hollywood success in recent years with In Bruges and Seven Psychopaths, but it was The Beauty Queen of Leenane that rocketed him to fame in 1996, winning a nomination for Best Play at the Olivier Awards with the subsequent Broadway production going on to bag no less than four Tony Awards. This hysterically comedic edge-of-your-seat play charts the life of Maureen Folan, a 40-year-old virgin, her relationship with her manipulative mother, and her brush with romance in the mountains of County Galway, Ireland. www.curveonline.co.uk www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

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The Berkeley Insurance Group Assam Cup

BOOKWORM

By Matt Blackwell

Last Role of the Dice by Neville Drury Austin Macauley £9.99

5 minutes with the author

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Your first novel Seaborn was published in 1984, why the almost 30 year break?

Leicestershire author Neville Drury empowers the nation’s octogenarians and proves they’ve still got what it takes to Indiana Jones it across the country and continent following a breadcrumb trail of clues in order to solve a 60-year-old puzzle. Not just one for your parents though, the narrative in this World War Two mystery is skilfully weaved across much of the twentieth century and into the early years of the twenty first, as we are filled in on the life and wartime service of RAF combat pilot Ronald ‘Ronno’ Wallace, carefully fed information that relates to the cryptic pictogram he is posthumously tasked to solve by his one-time RAF comrade Richard ‘Hutch’ Hutchinson.

All in all, Last Role of the Dice is an enjoyable romp through the decades, depicting a world under the clouds of war and only suffers slightly from all the toing and froing, which sometimes means the peripheral characters, are introduced more than once or not sketched out particularly strongly. On the whole though, this minor criticism is not enough to detract from what is an entertaining read from a local author who has clearly done his historical homework.

I suppose the honest answer to that is the job got in the way. I was training to be a lawyer at the time and that’s what I ultimately became, but I always wanted to go back to writing.

Last Role contains a lot of historical fact, how was the research process?

REST OF THE BEST

Long. I suppose I’d been tucking bits away throughout my life. Some of the more specific things came from direct research and others were conversations that I’d had with people more recently.

What’s next for you?

I’m currently writing a sequel to Last Role. Well I suppose strictly it’s more of a companion volume, because it takes some of the characters forward but also goes back and explains some of the things that happened in the first book. It’s provisionally titled Prussian Roulette and I’m hoping to have it finished by the summer of next year.

Doctor Sleep by Stephen King Doctor Sleep picks up the story of Danny Torrance the boy at the heart of The Shining, now middle-aged. Dan has been drifting for decades after the traumatic experiences of the Overlook Hotel and is desperate to shed his father’s legacy of despair, alcoholism, and violence. Finally, he settles in a New Hampshire town with a job at a nursing home where his remnant ‘shining’ power provides the crucial final comfort to the dying.Then Dan meets the evanescent Abra Stone, and it is her spectacular gift, the brightest shining ever seen, that reignites Dan’s own demons and summons him to a battle for Abra’s soul and survival.

(Hodder £19.99)

A Possible Life

by Sebastian Faulks

Police by Jo Nesbo

Soldiers and lovers, parents and children, scientists and musicians risk their bodies and hearts in search of connection - some key to understanding what makes us the people we become. Provocative and profound, Sebastian Faulks’ dazzling novel journeys across continents and time to explore the chaos created by love, separation and missed opportunities. From the pain and drama of these highly particular lives emerges a mysterious consolation: the chance to feel your heart beat in someone else’s life.

The police urgently need detective Harry Hole, his dedication to his job and his brilliant insights have saved the lives of countless people. A killer is stalking Oslo’s streets. Police officers are being slain at the scenes of crimes they once investigated, but failed to solve. The murders are brutal, the media reaction hysterical.

But this time, Harry can’t help anyone.

For years, Harry has been at the centre of every major criminal investigation in Oslo but now with those he loves most facing terrible danger, Harry can’t protect anyone. Least of all himself.

(Vintage £7.99)

(Harvill Secker £18.99) www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

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SIR PETER SOULSBY dluxe people

L

EICESTER’S FIRST ELECTED MAYOR IS REIGNING OVER AN ERA OF UNPRECEDENTED EXCITEMENT FOR THE CITY. DLUXE CAUGHT UP WITH SIR PETER SOULSBY TO SEE WHAT IS GRABBING HIS ATTENTION RIGHT NOW.

Leicester is an exciting place to be right now – what is exciting you the most at the minute?

There is a real buzz about the city at the minute – it is a pleasure to be a part of.

The profile produced by finding Richard III has produced some amazing coverage for the city, as has the City of Culture Bid, which could really highlight our diverse cultural offering. The improvements we are currently making to re-connect parts of the city centre should help the flow of people around the city, driving more trade into our excellent shops and restaurants.

Richard III is an amazing opportunity for Leicester – how do you hope to capitalise on it to achieve maximum gains for the city?

I know, can you believe when we announced it we had 37 camera crews from all around the world? And when we did the big reveal, all those hardened news journalists burst into applause. It really says something about the importance of that announcement; we were front page news in New York, Brazil and Australia. It’s a once in a century opportunity to be able to reach a mass audience with the Story of Leicester – 2000 years of unbroken history from the Romans through magnificent medieval architecture, Tudor tales to rival any city to the present day. We just need to ensure that we are telling the story of the city, and the finding of Richard III gives us an opportunity to shout it from the rooftops. The Guildhall exhibition has attracted over 90,000 visitors in under six months, many of whom would be new to Leicester. We are now planning a permanent visitors centre, complete with a model of the body, and of course, the interment in Leicester Cathedral. Needless to say, the ceremony will be ‘fit for a King.’

How does the Story of Leicester contribute to its being a successful modern city?

I firmly believe that to be a true destination city in the modern age, you have to have more than great shops. Well, we have got those but we also have a huge historical, cultural and arts offering, so it’s about packaging those up in a form that’s attractive to people who are new to the city.

This is where the ‘Connecting Leicester’ strategy really comes into its own. In the 1960s and 1970s, the city was divided by the new Ring Road running through the heart of historic Leicester, separating incredible buildings such as the Saxon St Nicholas’ Church away from high footfall areas.

Jubilee Square and the programme of works that make up Connecting Leicester will help them navigate the city more easily, allowing people to discover wonderful places such as Castle Gardens, which is really just a stones’ throw from the city centre.

“I WOULD LOVE TO SEE US WIN CITY OF CULTURE” You mentioned the City of Culture Bid – which is all going very well. How much chance do you think there is of Leicester actually winning it?

Well, I was sceptical when we first started on this journey but the team are doing an incredible job. One of the strengths of the region (and by this I mean the city and the county) is the incredible depth of cultural heritage. It extends beyond arts organisations, galleries and theatres to community organisations and groups – it really goes right to the grassroots here. From the Irish community to our Morris Men and Indian Modern Dance groups, we really do have something to offer everyone. It was one of the reasons why Leicester was chosen as the starting point for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee tour last year – Leicester is seen as a successful modern city representing what is good about modern Britain; strength, community, diversity and creativity. It’s a great place to be.

We’re are up against some stiff competition from the other shortlisted towns Dundee, Swansea and Hull but I would love to see us win City of Culture and if we did we would celebrate it across the county, from Harborough to Melton, Oakham to Loughborough. We need to strengthen the www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk

ties between our fantastic modern city and the stunning countryside in which it sits. It amazes me that people are still surprised by attractions such as Bradgate Park.

In your opinion, what is the city’s biggest strength?

Without doubt, it’s people. It is such a lively, dynamic city, full of colourful characters with amazing stories. It is a privilege to work amongst them.

Conversely, what it the largest issue facing the city?

Modesty. We are not very good at shouting about ourselves or what we have to offer.

I often say that Leicester has a collective inferiority complex, a kind of regional lack of self-confidence. However, we are making strides to put that right!

Leicester obviously means the world to you. Why? It is just so lively and bustling. From its complex history to a thriving centre of retail and commerce, there are layers of experience everywhere – it is like a rich tapestry that is always being added to.

When is the last time you looked around and felt at home?

I have a terrace that overlooks the city and, for a change, this summer I have actually been able to use it. Sitting on the balcony in the evening, enjoying a glass of something and watching the sun setting on the city, it’s truly special.

With what we assume is limited free time, how do you like to spend your weekends and evenings?

I am really blessed to have a large family who all live in the area. It means I can spend as much time as my schedule allows with my three daughters and eight grandchildren.

They are a real source of joy.

For more information on how Leicester is changing visit www.leicester.gov.uk.

Image by Matt Blackwell

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CURVE THEATRE & NEW PERSPECTIVES THEATRE COMPANY PRESENT

RICHARD O’BRIEN’S

ROCKY HORROR SHOW

THE LOVESONG OF ALFRED J HITCHCOCK

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!” Da ★ “It Rocks

★★★★ FRI 27 SEP - SAT 5 OCT

MON 7 - SAT 12 OCT

DANCE CONSORTIUM PRESENTS

CEDAR LAKE CONTEMPORARY BALLET

CURVE AND MERCURY THEATRE, COLCHESTER PRESENT

BY MARTIN McDONAGH DIRECTED BY PAUL KERRYSON

FRI 18 - SAT 19 OCT

FRI 18 OCT - SAT 9 NOV

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

DIRECTED BY PAUL KERRYSON

FRI 29 NOV - SAT 11 JAN

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

WED 11 DEC - SAT 4 JAN

5 BIRTHDAY SEASON th

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The Audi

A1 The Audi

The Audi A1

Now with 5 years’ Now with 5 years’ free servicing* and free servicing* and competitive finance. competitive finance.

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16” ‘10-spoke’ de Automatic Start-S Mobile telephone Front Sports seat 3-spoke leather S Driver’s Informat Front fog lights

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The Audi A1 Sportback 1.4 TFSI Sport • 16” ‘10-spoke’ design alloy wheels • Automatic Start-Stop function • Mobile telephone preparation – Bluetooth interface • Front Sports seats • 3-spoke leather Sports multi-function steering wheel Audi Centre Any Street, Any Town Any Postcode 01234 567890 www.centre.audi.co.uk • Driver’s Information System Audi Centre Any Street, Any Town Any Postcode 01234 567890 www.centre.audi.co.uk • Front fog lights

Official fuel consumption figures for the Audi A1 Sportback 1.4 TFSI 122PS Sport manual in mpg example (l/100km): from Urban 40.9 Extra based Urban 61.4 (4.6), Combined Solutions Representative Audi(6.9), Finance on 10,000 miles52.3 (5.4). CO2 emi Xenon light package at a price of £1,095.00 and metallic paint at a price of £340.00 as shown. Retail sales only: **Payable within first payment. ***Payable w purposes and may not reflect real driving results. Offer excludes optional per annum† for the Audi A1 Sportback 1.4 TFSI 122PS Sport manual.

charges may be payable if vehicle is returned. Indemnities may be required. Subject to status. Available to over 18s from participating Audi Centres only (subject to availability) for vehicles ordered before 30 November 2013 and delivered by 31 D current rate of 20% VAT. Offers may be varied or withdrawn at any time. *Servicing activity is based on the manufacturer’s recommended LongLife service schedule. Up to 5 years or 50,000 miles whichever comes soonest. Free Audi Service Plan is a customer taking out Audi Finance. Available on vehicles ordered between 1 July and 30 November 2013. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply. For more information please speak to your Audi Centre. Audi Finance, Freepost Audi Finance.

Duration

35 monthly payments of 20904820_A1_1.4_TFSI_Sport_Finance_Hotline_Ad_270x340_v2.indd 1

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£18,611.31

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£17,611.31

Acceptance fee** Option to purchase fee*** Rate of interest

212 Narborough Road South Braunstone Town Leicester LE3 2LD 0116 282 8200 www.leicester.audi.co.uk

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Leicester Audi

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£199.00

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£125.00 £60.00 5.8% fixed 6.5% APR

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Official fuel consumption figures for the Audi A1 Sportback 1.4 TFSI 122PS Sport manual in mpg (l/100km): Urban 40.9 (6.9), Extra Urban 61.4 (4.6), Combined 52.3 (5.4). CO2 emissions: 126g/km.

Standard EU Test figures for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results.

Offer excludes optional Xenon light package at a price of £1,095.00 and metallic paint at a price of £340.00 as shown. Retail sales only: **Payable within first payment. ***Payable with optional final payment. †5.76p per mile excess mileage charges apply. Further charges may be payable if vehicle is returned. Indemnities may be required. Subject to status. Available to over 18s from participating Audi Centres only (subject to availability) for vehicles ordered before 30 November 2013 and delivered by 31 December 2013. The quoted ROTR prices and finance examples shown reflect the current rate of 20% VAT. Offers may be varied or withdrawn at any time. *Servicing activity is based on the manufacturer’s recommended LongLife service schedule. Up to 5 years or 50,000 miles whichever comes soonest. Free Audi Service Plan is available for the A1 Sportback to all retail customers and is not dependent on the customer taking out Audi Finance. Available on vehicles ordered between 1 July and 30 November 2013. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply. For more information please speak to your Audi Centre. Audi Finance, Freepost Audi Finance.