Rutland Living March 2017

SPECIAL PULL-OUT GUIDE! 32 PAGES OF IDEAS TO CREATE THE PERFECT WEDDING

RUTLAND LIVING

1 WI COVE

Wedding

INSPIRATION S 2017

FASHION BEAUTY VENUES CATERIN G HONEYMOONS

Everything you n your big deaeyd to plan

R RBSH

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13/02/2017

Covering Rutland, Market Harborough & surrounding villages

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Wedding fever Our 32-page guide to planning your big day MARCH 2017 £1.50 03

www.rutlandliving.co.uk

@RutlandLiving

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Fords Of Oakham To celebrate Mother’s Day 2017 Fords of Oakham invites you to our...

Mother & Daughter Shopping Evening Tuesday 21st March 2017 5-8pm

Enjoy a relaxed shopping experience with a glass of fizz and canapés.

A nail technician will be in store to provide a treat!

Our specialist bra fitter will be available for fitting and advice on wearing the right size.

20% off full price lingerie purchases on the night.

Plus much more...

Tickets: £5.00 per ticket which can be purchased in store 2 8 Church Street, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6AA Tel: 01572 722654 www.fordsofoakham.co.uk

RUT LAND & M AR K E T H A R BO R O U G H LIV ING

March Contents www.rutlandliving.co.uk www.marketharboroughliving.co.uk

Welcome to the March issue of Rutland & Market Harborough Living

S

PRING is finally here! It’s been a long time coming and I hope you’re enjoying the lighter mornings, the daffodils and all the joy that comes with this new season.

At RMHL towers we’re using March to get things straight – we’ve got top tips from the experts on spring cleaning (page 32) and everything you need to get your garden shipshape (page 24) in time for the summer when, fingers crossed, we’ll be sitting outside and soaking up the rays on a regular basis.

Now that we’re ready to come out of hibernation after a pretty miserable February weather-wise, we’re enjoying planning our new spring make-up ideas from Catherine (page 36) so we can get out and enjoy all the shops, restaurants, pubs and events on offer across the region looking our very best.

Last but not least, we’ve been in the midst of wedding fever, uncovering the very best venues, caterers, cake makers, bridal shops and such like to create our Wedding Inspirations supplement, every bride-to-be’s Bible for planning her big day. Not got an impending wedding on the horizon? Just swoon over the lovely pics instead!

Rachael @RutlandLiving @rutlandlivingmag INCORPORATING

Village Lifestyle

4 Editor’s selection

Easton Walled Garden’s local photography comp winners

6 Updates News & views

8 Mother’s Day gifts Because she’s worth it…

10 Out & About

35 years of Rutland Musical Theatre

36 Health & Beauty A fresh look for spring

39 Local People

Baby and pregnancy aromatherapy and massage

40 Harborough Happenings Shops and services

42 Local learning

Changing children’s lives

14 Local People

47 Out & About

16 Food News

49 Updates

Talented Rutland authors

Mill Street Pub & Kitchen, Oakham and The Berkeley Arms, Wymondham

18 Food & Drink

The Olive Branch recipe

20 Food & Drink

Local beer in local pubs

24 Home & Garden Spring gardening

WEDDING INSPIRATIONS 2017 29 Local History The Queen’s wedding, 70 years ago

31 Updates News & views

32 Home & Garden Spring cleaning

What’s on this month

News & views

54 Profile

Strictly star Pacha Kovalev

Editor Rachael Bull 07734 218155 rachaelbull@bestlocalliving.co.uk Advertisement Manager, Rutland Tracy Watkinson 01572 813187 rutlandliving@btinternet.com Advertisement Manager, Market Harborough Sosennah Every 07884 124316 sos.every@gmail.com Advertising Copy & Subscriptions Rachel Beecroft 01780 765320 rachel@locallivingdesign.co.uk Head of Design Steven Handley steve@locallivingdesign.co.uk Designer Sarah Compton inkdesign@virginmedia.com Publisher Nicholas Rudd-Jones 01780 765571 nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk Printed by Warners of Bourne RL cover: © Dottie Photography.

Dress designed & created by Martin Charles Bridal MHL cover: © The Flower House Weddings

Subscribe to Rutland & Market Harborough Living Subscriptions – annual rate £25 (UK only).

Please write to: Publisher, Local Living, PO Box 208, Stamford, PE9 9FY enclosing cheque made payable to Local Living Ltd. Or subscribe online at www.bestlocalliving.co.uk

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MARCH 2017

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E D I T O R ’ S SEL EC T IO N

Caught on camera Getting excited about spring? Here’s a little taster for you. These photos came out top in Easton Walled Garden’s recent photo competition, courtesy of some brilliantly talented Leicestershire and Rutland photographers.

Clockwise from above: ‘Early Morning’ Tessa Smith, Somerby (overall winner) ‘Ring of Fire’ Maralyn Smith, Coalville William Collison, Oakham ‘Sitting Pretty’ Karen Antcliffe, Melton Mowbray ‘Catch of the Day’ Janine Lee, Thurnby ‘Summer Life’ Christopher England, Grantham

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RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MARCH 2017

Danielle O ‘Connor Akiyama

has become one of the World’s most sought after and Highly acclaimed contemporary artists.

Trent Galleries

11 Mill St Oakham Invites you to come and view the beautiful new exhibition…

within

11 - 18th March We will be celebrating the launch of a mesmerising array of limited editions including a collector’s piece created exclusively for guests at this event, alongside a collection of stunning original paintings.

Call 01572 722790 for further information, or if you would like to be put on our guest list.

11 Mill Street, Oakham LE15 6EA - 01572 722790 oakham@trentgalleries.co.uk 3 Chain Lane, Newark, NG24 1AU - 01636 646426 sales@trentgalleries.co.uk

www.trentgalleries.co.uk

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UPDATES News & Views

Danielle O’Connor Akiyama exhibition at Trent Galleries

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ONCEPTUALLY brilliant, stylistically virtuosic and artistically inspired, Danielle O’Connor Akiyama has become one of the world’s most highly sought after and acclaimed contemporary artists.

Trent Galleries is hosting a new Akiyama exhibition aptly entitled ‘within’, which includes an array of new limited editions including a collector’s piece created exclusively for guests, alongside a collection of stunning original paintings.

Call Trent Galleries on 01572 722790 for further details, or if you would like to be put on the guest list.

• Trent Galleries, 11 Mill Street, Oakham www.trentgalleries.co.uk

Rutland Cookery School opens its doors

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UTLAND Cookery School is the newest venture from acclaimed chef Robin Stewart and looks set to attract foodie novices and experts from near and far.

Based at Oakham Enterprise Park in purpose-built kitchens, Robin is offering a vast array of courses, with both fullday and half-day options, ranging from marmalade making to knife skills, healthy eating to food photography, sushi to bread making.

Robin has worked as a chef in Michelinstarred restaurants including the Connaught and the Dorchester and is excited about sharing his love of cookery and passing on tips, techniques, short cuts and insights that he’s learned during his lengthy career.

He has designed the school so that it’s accessible to all, including disabled access for wheelchair users, and each learner will have a fully equipped workstation and will work singly rather than in pairs, ensuring maximum benefit from each workshop.

“Everyone makes everything themselves and gets a Rutland Cookery School recipe booklet to take away with them,” explains Robin. “I’m also planning demonstrations, food and drink tastings, guest chef demonstrations and such like in conjunction with other people.”

• Visit www.rutlandcookeryschool.co.uk or call 07391 679 208 for the full calendar of course dates and for more information.

Wax On Wax Off sponsors local Under 7s football

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AX On Wax Off Valeting & Detailing are “extremely proud and privileged” to be able to support owner Rob’s local youth club – Royce Rangers Under 7s.

“It’s a great opportunity for me and my business to give back to a local team and one I used to play for in my younger years,” Rob explains.

“I’d like to thank Royce Rangers Football Club for allowing me to be a part of this brilliant local and community-based club. A lot of people put time and work into the club as do a lot of other sponsors, for nothing except to see the youth of the town enjoy themselves, keep fit and smile.

“I just want the kids to have fun and enjoy the football and socialising.

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RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MARCH 2017

If I can do that by paying for kits and trophies, I will.”

Wax On Wax Off is a professional mobile valeting and detailing company. Rob set up the business in September 2011, but has been valeting cars to a professional standard as a hobby for over a decade.

Services range from a mini valet to engine bay detailing, air con cleaning, full car detailing and clay bar treatments.

• Call Rob on 01572 768961 or visit www.waxonwaxoff.uk.com to find out more.

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Beautiful Interiors

27 Mill Street Oakham Rutland LE15 6EA showroom@elizabethstanhope.co.uk www.elizabethstanhope.co.uk 01572 722 345 4 Adam & Eve Street, Market Harborough, LE16 7LT www.thelittlebigbrashop.co.uk

Tel: 01858 465592 7

MOT HE R’S DAY

Because she’s worth it…

Mothering Sunday is on 26 March – the perfect time to pay a little more attention to our wonderful mums.

Katie Mitchell has done the hard work for you, finding unique and thoughtful gifts ready for you to thoroughly spoil your fabulous mum.

“My most memorable gift was a beautiful black and white photo of us all laughing hysterically”

Say it with flowers Whether your mum loves a big bouquet of fabulous blooms or a handpicked posy, flowers are always perfect.

Liz Leaper, owner of Oakham-based Pollen Floristry says: “This is really a time to spoil your mum with her favourites.

With florists stocking lilacs, locally grown tulips, exotic orchids, fragrant hyacinths and hydrangeas, there is something for every mum.”

Pop into your local florist for inspiration or consider something a little different and invite mum to plant some bulbs with the children and watch them bloom in the months to come.

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RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MARCH 2017

A fabulous afternoon tea Scrumptious cakes, traditionally presented scones, sandwiches – quintessentially British tea at its best. Book a table for you and your mum at The George in Stamford and enjoy the wonderful ambience, a very special cream tea and maybe a glass of Champagne. Or why not try the Farmer’s Kitchen at Fardon Fields in Market Harborough for something delicious? You can stock on their massive array of fresh produce while you’re there.

Learn together Why not sign up for something to do together? Tactile Textiles in Tur Langton offers knitting, felting and hand painting and dyeing yarn courses…

Or how about an exhilarating halfday introductory sailing course at Rutland Water, or even the chance to learn some Strictly moves with a beginner’s course at the Nene School of Dancing?

A little indulgence Treat her to something she rarely gets round to enjoying - a well-earned pampering session. You could buy her a manicure - Naomi Nails and Beauty in Market Harborough has a range of wonderful treatments to choose from as does the Body and Beauty Studio in Langham and Ellique in Oakham.

Reminisce with photos A beautiful photo album filled with favourite shared moments will make her smile. These accordion-style, hand-printed journals can be found in Tur Langton-based The Laughing Cactus.

Owner Mandeep, who recently opened her new printmaking studio, commented: “These journals can be a great mother’s day gift.

Simply fill them with photographs, pictures drawn by the children or grandchildren, handwritten messages or just the promise of filling it together with your mum in the coming year.”

Perhaps she’d enjoy a lovely new book - The Folio Society produces absolutely stunning editions of classic books - or some precious me-time with a wonderful candlelit bubble bath.

Something to treasure Personal jeweller Belynda Faulkner, who runs B Jewellery in Tur Langton, creates gorgeous bespoke jewellery like this beautiful bracelet. “I specialise in hand engraving real fingerprints onto pieces of jewellery and love that every piece of jewellery I make is individual to each person”.

This bracelet in silver starts at £150 or in 9ct gold starts at £495

Share a cup of tea Finally sit down with her and have a cup of tea and tell her you love her.

Something lovely for the home Many mums will appreciate something gorgeous for the home, be it a lovely throw, cushion, ornament or photo frame. Visit Fords of Oakham for some inspiration.

Lovely Sophie Allport Terrier Mug £10 and 2-cup tea pot £25 available at Fords of Oakham.

These delightful candles can be found at Bunny & Clarke

“I wear a beautiful necklace I received for my first ever Mother’s Day every day and smile” DIRECTORY Pollen Floristry 42 High Street, Oakham, 01572 724404, www.pollenfloristry.co.uk The George of Stamford 71 St. Martin’s, Stamford, 01780 750750, www.georgehotelofstamford.com Farndon Fields Farndon Road, Market Harborough, 01858 464838, www.farndonfields.co.uk The Laughing Cactus The Manor, Main Street, Tur Langton www.thelaughingcactus.com Tactile Textiles The Manor, Main St, Tur Langton 0116 344 0081 www.tactiletextiles.co.uk Rutland Water Sailing School Gibbetts Lane, Oakham, 01780 721999, www.rutlandsailingschool.co.uk Nene School of Dancing Parkway Sports & Social Club, Maskew Avenue, Peterborough, 01778 590655, www.neneschoolofdancing.co.uk Naomi’s Nails 14 Manor Walk, Market Harborough, 01858 657001, www.naominailsbeauty.co.uk Ellique 55 South St, Oakham, 01572 723950 Bunny & Clarke The Manor, Main Street, Tur Langton, 01858 540424, www.bunnyandclarke.com B Jewellery The Manor, Main Street, Tur Langton, 07514141978, www.b-jewellery.co.uk Fords of Oakham 8 Church Street, Oakham, 01572 722654, www.fordsofoakham.co.uk

“I’ll always remember the fabulous amount of concentration on my son’s face as he bought me a cup of tea in bed” RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MARCH 2017

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OUT & ABOUT

Happy Birthday To You

35 years of Rutland Musical Theatre Amander Meade speaks to Rutland Musical Theatre committee Chair, Anne Stringer about shows past, present and future.

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UTLAND Musical Theatre was founded in 1980 by a small group of enthusiasts keen to start the first Musical Theatre Society in the county, not only because of their love of the arts but also to preserve and promote the county name. The curtain went up on their maiden production, ‘Show Boat’ in 1981, and the group has never looked back.

Like so many little girls, Anne was a keen dancer throughout her childhood but as more serious study and a corporate career beckoned, her dreams of dancing were shelved. Much later on in life, Anne took up the unusual hobby of Molly Dancing – a form of English folk dancing, which led to an invitation to do some support dancing for RMT’s production of Tom Jones.

“I was quite reluctant and determined the show would be a one off so it was quite a surprise to find myself auditioning for the following show ‘Anything Goes’, but by that time I was hooked,” she confesses.

In common with lots of her RMT colleagues, Anne would never have believed she would enjoy performing so much but relishes being part of a supportive cast and the creative environment it provides.

“Whilst it’s true we take performances very seriously indeed and aim for the highest professional standards, we have so much fun and I now have friends of all ages and from many different walks of life.” Anne recommends taking part in a show for anyone wishing to challenge themselves to leave their comfort zone and takes great pleasure in seeing new members who arrived to audition terribly nervous and shy, developing confidence as they graduate from the chorus to main roles.

“Not everyone has theatrical aspirations but we have served as a training ground for several members who went on to become professional

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RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MARCH 2017

actors.” One such former member is Rob Wilkes, who is currently on tour with the cast of ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’.

Non-actors are equally welcomed at RMT, with plenty of ways to be involved from stage crew to make-up and costume makers. “In particular, help with costume making helps us keep costs of hiring to a minimum and for those with less time, why not come along and help front of house? These are all great ways of gaining theatre experience or just meeting new friends, using your skills or maybe learning some new ones,” encourages Anne.

Next month, the company will be performing the musical thriller, ‘Sweeney Todd – the Demon Barber of Fleet Street’, with ‘Hairspray’ and ‘The Full Monty’ in the planning stages for 2018.

“We are very keen to recruit plenty of young singers, dancers and actors as well as much valued back stage and marketing assistance to help us make a success of next season, as the programme is ambitious to say the least. We know there is no shortage of musical talent in Rutland and the very least I can guarantee new members is lots of support and fun – who knows? We might provide the first rung on the career ladder to a brand new star of the West End stage, which would be fantastic.”

• Inspired? For details on how to get involved, email: rmtcommitte@gmail.com You can see RMT’s production of ‘Sweeney Todd’ at Uppingham Theatre between 5 and 8 April 2017 at 7.30pm (Saturday matinee 2.30pm). Tickets are priced £14/£13 and are available from Uppingham Sports & Books, Tel: 01572 822 788 or www.wegottickets.com

Is it time to re-discover your hearing?

Missing the odd word during the conversation?

Having to turn the TV up?

If these situations sound familiar you may benefit from a free hearing assessment.

Healthy Hearing are your local hearing experts. With many years of experience we are dedicated to providing a comprehensive hearing healthcare service and finding the best solutions for your needs.

Call us for: • Free expert hearing advice • Free lifestyle hearing assessments • Free trials of the latest digital hearing aid technology • Home visits available

Call us today for your FREE hearing assessment

01572 759555 Oakham Hearing Centre, 17b Gaol Street, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6AQ

With our help your hearing can only get better.

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Country Inn and Restaurant A warm welcome is assured at our quintessential old English county pub, bringing you the best of British home cooked meals and a choice of well kept Real Ales.

Why not join us for Sunday Lunch?

Choice of 3 roasts all served with the traditional trimmings £9.95 for one course up to £15.95 for three courses

Curry Night

1st Thursday of every month.

Two course menu with selection of starters, followed by three homemade curries £10.95 a head

Friday Lunchtime Special

2 Portions of Cod, Chips and Mushy Peas for £10 Tue, Wed, Thur 12pm – 11pm (Food 12pm – 2.30pm/6.30pm – 9.30pm) Fri, Sat 12pm – 12am (Food 12pm – 2.30pm/6.30pm – 9.30pm) Sun 12pm – 6pm (Food 12.30pm – 3pm).Closed Mondays

LAST ORDERS WILL BE TAKEN 30 MINUTES BEFORE FOOD IS STOPPED SERVING

14 Arnhill Road, Gretton | Northants, NN17 3DN

Tel: 01536 770268 www.thehattonarms.com

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Advertisement Feature

HOUSING MARKET UPDATE WITH Moores go the extra mile to showcase homes at no extra cost.

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pring is the season when traditionally, most vendors decide the time is right to market their property. Not content to wait for buyers to get in touch, Managing Director Vernon Moore takes to the road to fly the flag for the region and recruit cash buyers on behalf of his clients.

BUYERS FROM THE SOUTH READY TO MOVE… Through a series of specially devised roadshows and presentations, Moores are offering local vendors the opportunity to market their homes directly to buyers in London and the South East. Vernon has established partnerships with the most successful estate agents inside the M25 corridor and this year, will pioneer a scheme to reach out to potential buyers further afield.

“Once again this May we shall be a major presence at the Country Life ‘Move to the Country’ Show in London. In the lead up to the event I shall be hosting presentations at the offices of our regional partners in Essex, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire as well as targeting buyers in Central London,” Vernon explains.

75% OF MOORES BUYERS IN THE £650,000 PLUS BRACKET COME FROM OUT OF AREA AND IN 2016 THEY HAD MORE BUYERS

REGISTERING FROM OUTSIDE THE M25 THAN FROM INSIDE! Detailed analysis by the Moores team has revealed that buyers who have already moved out of London into the surrounding counties are willing to make a second move to maximise the potential equity in their home. “We received lots of interest from visitors to the show who are currently living in Greater London but keen to find out about the superb opportunities our region offers. This is why we are marketing houses in the South East and explaining what a superb area Stamford and Rutland is to live in and that it is only an hour away from London.”

Moores are urging local homeowners to act now in order to include their properties in the first phase of presentations. This month Vernon will collaborate with the Michael Graham Agency who have multiple offices in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire, and during April he will present a portfolio of local homes to the customers of Beresford’s in Essex as well as clients of Douglas and Gordon in Central London. In May, the Moores team will celebrate the culmination of the spring roadshows at the ‘Move to the Country’ Show.

ACT NOW TO SELL FAST...

“By taking our message directly to clients ready to move, we are exposing regional properties to groups of serious buyers likely to respond” says Vernon. “Imagine looking through your local paper and seeing your ideal property for sale at half the price, it would certainly make you pick the phone up.

For extra impact, we will be advertising a wide selection of local property in the appropriate regional press and are convinced that buyers in the south will be dazzled by the quality of homes they can acquire in this region without compromising on lifestyle or square footage.

Moores are truly going the extra mile this spring as we target key areas with like-minded agencies. Our aim is to create swift, efficient closure to sales resulting in very happy clients all round. Contact us without delay to have your home included in our roadshow portfolio or seek advice on how best to market your home this spring.”

Moores Estate Agency has offices in London, Oakham, Stamford, Melton, Uppingham, and the London platforms of Peterborough and Grantham Railway Stations.

Oakham Office – Tel: 01572 757979 Stamford Office – Tel: 01780 484555 Uppingham Office – Tel: 01572 821935 Full contact details can be found at www.mooresestateagents.com

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LO C A L A U T HO R S

New books from talented trio of Rutland authors Three very different books have just been published by Rutland authors. One is a murder mystery thriller, another is a compilation of visitors’ perspectives of the Italian city of Verona and the other is a biography of an accomplished 19th century poet. Nick Rennie found out more about the books and the individual motivations of the writers to get their work in print.

CAROLINE WEBB’S ‘VISITORS TO VERONA’

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ADAM LONGDEN’S ‘THE CATERPILLAR GIRL’

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EXT time you enjoy a meal at Don Paddy’s in Uppingham, the food may well have been cooked by a talented new author.

Adam Longden, who has been head chef at the Market Place restaurant for four-and-a-half years, has just published ‘The Caterpillar Girl’.

He describes it as a murder mystery thriller with a good dose of psychological suspense, romance and alternative music thrown in.

Married with three children, the 42-year-old has been writing it for four years, juggling the demands of his job and family life.

He said: “I have Mondays off to myself, so that is my full writing day, and I also write in between shifts.

“The book has been described as ‘Cider with Rosie’ meets Stephen King and a rites-of-passage story with a dark heart.

“All the villages, towns, woods and pubs that feature in the novel are real, existing places that you can visit.”

The Caterpillar Girl is set in the long, hot summer of 1989.

The two main characters are a teenage boy and girl whose paths cross purely by chance.

Jack was brought up in isolation and hidden from the world until the age of 16, while music-mad Daisy sees it as her duty to introduce him to the real world.

As the summer goes on and the temperature rises, so does the body count, as together they search for the truth of Jack’s real identity.

Adam said: “My inspiration was the ramshackle house I grew up in and the woods and fields that surrounded it.

“I was also inspired by music and reading Nick Cave’s ‘And the Ass Saw the Angel’ novel.”

He has also written three novellas, some of which feature Rutland landmarks, and is currently working on his second full novel.

FTER retiring from her career with Citizens Advice in Oakham, Stamford and Melton Mowbray, Caroline Webb has channelled her energies into writing ‘Visitors to Verona’.

She compares the experiences of travellers from Shakespeare’s time to the advent of mass tourism.

The book investigates why they came, what they found and how they reported it, providing a myriad of fascinating and often amusing quotations, which give a unique perspective on the history of one of Italy’s most seductive cities.

“It took me about five years to write,” said Caroline, who is in her 70s and has two children and three grandchildren.

“I lived in Verona for a year whilst enjoying a year at the university there as part of a degree in Italian and art history and that was my inspiration.

“The book has been a retirement project, following my year in Verona.”

Caroline spent that study year in Italy with husband Nigel and the couple previously co-authored ‘The Earl and his Butler in Constantinople’, about an 18th century British ambassador.

The couple are currently working on another book together.

DJ SHEPPARD’S ‘THEODORE WRATISLAW – FRAGMENTS OF A LIFE’

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N adolescent fascination with Oscar Wilde, which became a more general interest in the art and literature of the decadent 1890s, was the inspiration for DJ Sheppard’s biography of poet Theodore Wratislaw.

The 47-year-old, who is married with a 22-year-old son, is senior academic mentor at Oakham School.

He spent six years writing the book, mainly during free time between school terms.

“My specific interest in Theodore Wratislaw is about 15 years old,” said DJ Sheppard.

“I was drawn to his poetry but also his biographical obscurity.”

Wratislaw is named in accounts of the period and knew a number of its most prominent figures, such as Oscar Wilde and Aubrey Beardsley. However, little seemed to be known about the details of his life.

The author has drawn on lots of new information about the poet and his endeavours in the broader context of the literary and artistic life of London in a fascinating period.

He added: “I was determined to discover what more might be known – it turned out to be quite a lot.

The book is the result.”

• Signed copies of ‘The Caterpillar Girl’ (£7.99) are available at Don Paddy’s, Uppingham Sports and Books and Walkers Bookshop of Oakham.

It is also available online on Amazon in Kindle form and through the website www.adamlongden.com • Visitors to Verona is available through bookshops at £20 or discounted through Amazon, where it can also be downloaded for Kindle.

• ‘Theodore Wratislaw’ is available from Walkers Bookshop in Oakham and Staniland Books in Uppingham. Also via Amazon.co.uk or directly from the publishers, email sales@rivendalepress.com.

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RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MARCH 2017

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F O O D NEW S

The Berkeley Arms, Wymondham

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’D been looking forward to visiting the Berkeley Arms for some time, having heard wondrous things from colleagues and friends from near and far about Neil and Louise Hitchen’s offering. Then there’s the fact that it has been given a Michelin Bib Gourmand for six years running, and is currently the only pub/restaurant in Leicestershire and Rutland to hold the accolade.

First impressions boded well. Even on a miserable February Tuesday evening, most tables were taken and it had a lively, friendly atmosphere.

We started with some Hambleton Bakery bread, warm with Lincolnshire poacher butter. And the theme of little twists, making everything that extra bit more impressive, ran through our entire meal.

My starter of grilled local wood pigeon breast, pickled mushrooms, quail egg and hazelnut salad (£8) was perfectly rare with a zesty punch that was balanced by the creaminess of the quail eggs. The River Fowey Mussels cooked in local cider, pancetta and leeks (£8) were big and juicy, and the sauce was incredibly moreish – be sure to save some of that Hambleton bread to soak up the juices with.

My companion’s Special of roasted breast of chicken with potato and pancetta gratin, savoy cabbage, wild mushrooms and cream

chicken sauce (£15) really packed a punch in the flavour stakes, and was chargrilled to perfection.

And then there was the ribeye steak with handcut chips, roasted tomato and stilton butter (£20). The steak itself was spot on, cooked just as I like it. The stilton butter on top added an extra dimension without being too overpowering. But it was the extras that won me over. The chips were divine, the side salad of rocket had some home-pickled red onion that was out of this world, while the HUGE beef tomato (seriously, I thought it was an orange at first) had a delicious garlicy crusting on top.

Half way through my main I exclaimed ‘Wow, I love food!’ This sums up how happy I was.

For dessert we shared the dark chocolate and peanut butter tart with orange sorbet (£6.50), intensely rich but lightened by the fragrant sorbet.

It is what many places try – and fail – to be. It’s a truly local pub, with cask ales and space at the bar for a pint, alongside a quite brilliant restaurant, offering an exceptionally high standard of food without being pretentious. If you haven’t already been, it’s a must-do. Words: Rachael Bull • The Berkeley Arms, 59 Main Street, Wymondham, LE14 2AG 01572 787587 www.theberkeleyarms.co.uk

Mill Street Pub and Kitchen, Oakham

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ILL Street opened in the heart of Oakham last summer and it reminds me of the places that I used to frequent when living in SW London - smartly decorated without being over the top, and a focus on serving great drinks and food in a relaxed environment.

The main menu was full of hearty options, as you’d want in February. Starters included smoked haddock kedgeree with quail’s eggs (£7.25), and crispy pork belly with black pudding and apple (£6.25), while mains ranged from toad in the hole with mash and cider greens (£10.50) to fish pie with parsley crust and potato croquette (£12.50).

I went for a Specials starter of chicken kiev on a bed a butternut squash sag aloo (£5.50), full of flavoursome brown meat and the perfect amount of spiciness. My companion Lopted for the aforementioned kedgeree, which was deliciously comforting, the quail’s eggs being a nice addition. Both were decent-sized portions – we knew we wouldn’t go home hungry.

My Special main of chorizo and chargrilled prawn pappadelle with a black olive (£11) was superb. The pasta was thick and juicy and full of flavour. The chorizo wasn’t overpowering and the prawns and crayfish added a nice light touch. Laura’s Special of poached cod, root vegetable and samphire chowder (£15.50) was equally pleasing – with a not-too-fishy chowder, which balanced well with the cod, and the saltiness of the samphire complimented it nicely.

We couldn’t fit in a pud but agreed we

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must return to try out the sandwich menu for a weekday lunch – I’ve already got my eye on the Black Bomber and pickle toastie which is, not surprisingly, hugely popular.

Mill Street has a lot to offer, great food aside. Their private dining room is free to hire and makes the perfect spot for a birthday lunch for up to 12 people, while the downstairs Tavern bar is ideal for a private party.

Definitely worth a visit.

Words: Rachael Bull • Mill Street Pub & Kitchen, 6 Mill Street, Oakham, LE15 6EA. 01572 729600 www.millstreetoakham.com

Neil & Louise Hitchen welcome you to

Award Winning Country Pub

Find us in the latest editions of The Michelin Guide, Hardens Food Guide, Waitrose Good Food Guide and Alistair Sawdays Pubs & Inns.

Spring delights from the Marquess of Exeter Join us on Mothers’ Day for a very special menu The perfect way to relax and celebrate with family and loved ones Head down over the Easter holidays to enjoy our Spring a la carte menu Book a table for Easter Sunday and enjoy our delicious seasonal dishes

Don’t forget the Marquess regulars…

59 Main Street, Wymondham, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire LE14 2AG www.theberkeleyarms.co.uk 01572 787587

Take away Fish & Chips every Friday 5 – 7pm Adults £6.50, Children £4.50 Steak Night every Sunday Two Flat Iron Steaks with a glass of wine each just £30.00

www.marquessexeter.co.uk themarquessofexeterlyddington MarquessExeter 52 Main Street, Lyddington, nr Uppingham, Rutland LE15 9LT

The George at Ashley

Come and join us at the following events: Saturday 4th March - 6 Course Tasting Menu £30 Thursday 9th March - Cheese and Wine Tasting £15 Friday 17th March - St. Patrick’s Day Party Sunday 26th March - Mother’s Day Luncheon Sunday 16th April - Easter Day Lunch For more details and menus please visit our Facebook page or our website.

21 Main Street, Ashley, Northamptonshire. LE16 8HF T 01858 565411 E info@thegeorgeatashley.co.uk www.thegeorgeatashley.co.uk 17

O LI V E B R A NC H R EC IPE

Bikes out and join us for breakfast!

As well as all the digging, planting and cycling, we’re now open all day, every day, says Olive Branch head chef Sean Hope…

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E love outdoor activities here at The Olive Branch. As well as our allotment opposite the pub, which keeps us fit courtesy of digging and planting, we (some of us at least) are also into cycling. Co-owner Ben can often be seen wearing lycra – in fact, he recently skidded on some ice and did himself a mischief, but that’s another story. The great thing is we’re in the middle of some wonderful Rutland and Lincolnshire countryside and near some cracking bike routes. In fact we often offer guests route-planning advice and when time allows we’re happy to accompany them on guided rides. One of our favourite routes is a 65-mile food tour of Rutland that takes in Hambleton Bakery, The Grainstore Brewery, Rutland Charcuterie, Northfield Farm, Whissendine Windmill, Launde Farm Lamb, lunch at Café Ventoux, then the Bottle Kicking Cider Co, Bisbrooke Ostrich Farm, Jimmy’s Smokehouse and, when in season, Rutland Water Strawberries. We’ve uploaded some of our favourite bike routes to the websites ‘Ride With GPS’ and ‘Strava’. You can access them all by visiting www.theolivebranchpub.com, scrolling down and looking for the logos.

Now open for breakfast & morning coffee from 8am!

Photo: Clive Doyle

Partly as a result of demand from cyclists, we’re now open every day from 8am. If you want to join us for full breakfast (served from 8am-9.30am), you’ll need to give us a quick call before you turn up (ideally the day before) so we can have a table ready for you. However, if you want coffee, cookies, bacon sandwiches or and homemade breakfast bars please feel free to just pitch up. There are few things better than hot coffee and breakfast on the terrace when the sun is shining, so I hope you can join us soon, bike or no bike.

Meanwhile, here’s a really quick and simple breakfast or brunch recipe to get you in the mood…

Our ‘what to plant when’ calendar keeps us on our toes!

Oven-baked egg and bacon on toast with cherry tomatoes For each serving • 2 small free-range eggs • 3 rashers thin streaky smoked bacon • 1 knob butter • 1 slice toasted sourdough bread • cherry tomatoes For this recipe you will need 8cm stainless steel baking rings and a non-stick baking tray.

1 Lightly grease the baking sheet and baking rings with some soft butter.

2 Line the rings with bacon.

3 Crack the eggs into the centre of the moulds, season with flaked sea salt and black pepper.

4 Drizzle a little rapeseed oil on top and add a small sprig of thyme.

5 Bake, along with cherry tomatoes, in a pre–heated oven at Gas Mark 5 (190C) for approximately five minutes (until the egg is set) 6 Serve immediately on a slice of lightly buttered sourdough toast from Hambleton Bakery.

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BR I N G I N G L O C A L F O O D T O L IF E

Local beer in local pubs!

It’s a hard life for Great Food Club’s Matt Wright as he heads to The Crown in Stamford and The Exeter Arms at Easton with Stoney Ford Brewery…

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WAS at Stamford’s buzzing Crown Hotel recently to attend an event put on by Stoney Ford Brew Co. If you haven’t come across Ryhallbased Stoney Ford, I definitely recommend tracking down their very nicely balanced beers made with Englishonly ingredients – it’s hard to resist a pint of Sheepmarket Supernova Straw or All Saints Almighty Amber, and one often leads to another, as I enjoyably found out in The King’s Head on Maiden Lane, Stamford, during the Christmas period.

On pulling into the Crown’s busy car park, I spotted Stoney Ford’s old green Morris Minor van – nicknamed the Alebulance – which Tim Nichol and Simon Watson use to distribute their brews to places like The George of Stamford (Stoney Ford is now on permanently in The York Bar), The Lord Nelson in Oakham, Smiths of Bourne, The Golden Pheasant in Etton and many more.

Inside the Crown’s restaurant, beer sommelier Mark Tetlow from The Beer Hub was sharing his beer expertise with around 20 staff from a range of local pubs including The Olive Branch of Clipsham, The White Horse of Baston, The Tobie Norris of Stamford, The Fox at North Luffenham, The Ostrich of Peterborough and The Exeter Arms of Easton on the Hill (more on the Exeter Arms later).

The idea behind the event – funded and organised by Stoney Ford’s Tim and Simon – was to give those present the best possible knowledge about how to look after and serve cask ale in the pub. The thing about

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cask beer is that it’s not the easiest drink in the world to look after and serve. It only takes a couple of small mistakes at the pub end of the chain and the quality of a pint reduces dramatically, which is bad news for both the pub and the brewer whose name is on the pump clip.

The statistics are telling. Just as you don’t tend to return to pubs or restaurants that give you bad food, 34% of people who are served poor beer don’t return according to the Cask Ale Report 2017. Yet – amazingly considering that statistic – 33% of pints are served through dirty lines and 60% of pub staff have received no training in how to look after or serve beer (according to the same report).

Tim and Simon from Stoney Ford wanted to address this issue by encouraging local pubs to get proactive. The person they brought in to do the training, Mark Tetlow from The Beer Hub – who recently ran a beer and food matching evening for Great Food Club at The Olive Branch – is a master brewer with more than 30 years’ experience of tutoring publicans in the art of cellar management.

During the informative course we all made a trip down into the bowels of the Crown into its beer cellar, which must have housed an amazing number of beer casks during its long history. Then it was time to taste a few Stoney Ford brews. One was an experimental beer made with wild hops that Tim and Simon had found growing on farmland near Belmesthorpe.

Get the 2017 Handbook The Great Food Club Handbook 2017 is out now. With over 100 pages, the new Handbook is a handbag or glovebox-sized publication with one simple aim: to guide you to some of the best independent restaurants, pubs, farm shops, breweries, food producers, delis and cafes. It is available to buy now for £4.95 including postage. Go to www. greatfoodclub.co.uk, scroll to the bottom of the home page and click ‘Buy the Handbook’.

The Exeter Arms, Easton on the Hill Following the tasting, Tim, Mark and I ventured to Tim’s local, The Exeter Arms at Easton, which is now under new management in the form of Peter and Sarah Lane, who have run the pub since December. Peter was previously head chef at the excellent Falcon at Fotheringhay, a role he has held a total of three times!

Inside The Exeter Arms, which was every inch the warm, well cared for, cosy village pub, we were treated to a couple of delicious courses prepared by Peter and served with Stoney Ford beer.

First up was Peking duck with a deep-fried duck egg and spring onion purée. This was first-class comfort food and went beautifully with Stoney Ford’s malty PE9 Paradise Pale. Next came a classic ploughman’s with homemade piccalilli: cured meats from Rutland Charcuterie, slices of Melton Mowbray pork pie, pub-made breads and a selection of beautiful farmhouse cheeses. Again, this was top quality pub food although this time the paired beer – Sheepmarket Supernova Straw – was a bit too light for the strong flavours of the ploughman’s. Something more robust such as Hopshackle Historic IPA from Market Deeping would have definitely done the business.

If you haven’t tried the Exeter Arms since Peter and Sarah took the reins, or if you haven’t sampled a pint of Stoney Ford, I can recommend them both.

• To find out more about The Beer Hub, visit thebeerhub.co.uk

Join Great Food Club With its new editing team, Great Food Club is on a mission to unearth brilliant food and drink gems in your area and beyond. We currently recommend around 320 pubs, restaurants, producers and food shops, and around 200 of them run exclusive offers for Great Food Club members. Offers include 10% off at Stamford Cheese Cellar, 10% off at The Tobie Norris, a complimentary cocktail when you dine from the a la carte menu at The Olive Branch, 10% off at The King’s Arms in Wing, and 25% off at The Fox & Hounds in Exton. It is completely free to join and get a membership card – no catches – and we never share your data – sign up at www.greatfoodclub.co.uk

About the writer Matt Wright founded and runs Greatfoodclub.co.uk, a Leicestershire-based website that celebrates and promotes local food and drink. His Great Food Club Handbook 2017 is out now

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H OM E & G A R D EN

Spring gardening By mid-March we hope to see more frequent sunny days that provide the perfect opportunity to get back outside and tackle those early season garden tasks. Amander Meade speaks to some of the region’s garden experts to find out what kind of jobs we should be getting on with this month.

Spring lawn feed Add some interest

Elspeth and Paul Stockwell advise clients to really look hard at their gardens at this time of year. “Assess how well your garden looked last year and think about what you really want to achieve with your outside space. Investing a little time planning now will be incredibly useful when you come to talk through a new garden design with a professional.”

Elspeth’s top tips: “Early in the season gardens can look a little bare.

Is the garden just looking flat and dull? Maybe consider hedging in the form of Yew cones, columns and box balls. Start planning now for autumn plantings of snowdrops, crocuses, daffodils and tulips and add vertical interest in the form of apple or cherry blossom, which can make a spring garden very special.”

Cutting edge lawn care Colin Smith has run Diamond Mowers for almost 20 years and tells us, “This month if the weather is mild, you may need to start mowing but remember to cut on the lawnmower’s highest setting. In March, service your lawnmower or invest in a new one if necessary.” Colin and his team specialise in every aspect of garden machinery for the home or business, all displayed and demonstrated at their showroom in Market Harborough.

Colin’s top tip: “Never put old fuel in a mower – petrol goes stale after 30 days and can do tremendous damage to a machine. We always recommend specialist fuel Aspen to ensure reliable starting even after long periods of storage.”

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A healthy, green lawn always looks spectacular so give yours a helping hand this spring. Joe’s Lawn Care supply a range of bespoke treatment programmes to combat weeds, moss, pests and diseases. Joe’s will also tackle all your outdoor garden surfaces including decking, driveways, pathways and patios.

Joe’s top tip: “Treat your lawn to our Lawn Feed and Moss Control treatment to promote healthy root growth and add nutrition after winter.”

Farmer-turned-landscaper Chris Stubbs puts his agricultural knowledge to good use on a smaller scale these days. Chris’s company Gretton Garden Services provide mowing, weeding and specialist fencing to clients as well as planning and building hard landscaped areas and creating ponds. Chris prides himself on his traditional approach of courtesy, reliability and time keeping.

Chris’s top tip: “Whatever the job, use the best quality material available.”

New ideas Stamford-based garden designer Ken Rawson has a love of all types of garden, which makes his designs varied and adaptable to each client’s brief. “I offer several levels of design and advice but always with the intention of trying to discover the simplest solution with the maximum effect. I have many clients who have never used a designer before but I always look forward to the point when they say how exciting it is to see the new garden developing.”

Time to plant Yvette Smith is a multi-award winning garden designer who loves the challenge of a difficult space.

“March is a great time to think about planting to give plants and shrubs plenty of time to establish themselves before next winter. Increasingly my clients are opting for more water features and choosing plants to bring in wildlife of all kinds. Wild flowers and traditional planting sit very well alongside contemporary paving and hard landscaping to combine the best elements of outdoor living.”

Yvette’s top tip: “Even small changes to the line of a pathway or revamping a single border can make a huge difference to a garden.”

Home-grown plants Welland Vale Garden Inspirations on the outskirts of Uppingham offers an extensive range of quality homegrown plants shrubs, climbers, perennial, herbaceous, garden ware from pots to statues from bird baths to stone benches, inspirational displays and gift ware. Look out for superb special offers and seasonal bargains all year round as well as talks and demonstrations by expert suppliers. Absolutely everything you could possibly need to improve your outdoor space from architectural artefacts to pizza ovens plus super friendly staff.

Update the look Learn from the experts at Barnsdale Gardeners from beginners to experts will love the superb courses and gardening events all year round at beautiful Barnsdale Gardens.

This month, subjects include Rose Pruning, Plants for Problem Places, Organic Vegetable Growing and Plant Propagation.

If you love to explore a garden centre then look no further than the Langton Greenhouse and Garden Centre, where you will find everything you need to really take advantage of your outdoor space, whether it be plants and landscaping that suits your garden, ornaments to really set it off and furniture to sit back and enjoy it all with.

This family-run centre is also home to interior tile and stone specialist, The Langton Stone Company. If choosing gets too much, take some respite at the Greenhouse Café with its fresh and varied seasonal menu.

Space planning Landscape Architect Chris Hodgson works on projects ranging from small courtyards to much larger developments. “I believe that customer satisfaction lies with high-quality design combined with the right project management.”

Chris’s top tip: “I use and recommend 3D computer-aided design (CAD) to help clients visualise a project at the planning stage.”

Flowers and trees and everything in-between West Lodge Plants and Gardens are based at West Lodge Rural Centre. The recently expanded three-acre site is home to a retail plant nursery, wholesale plant production and a design, landscaping and maintenance service.

Richard Jell offers a wide variety of quality plants coupled with experienced horticulturally trained staff.

“We are delighted to offer a complete landscaping service from design to construction. We create and improve decks, patios, retaining walls, flower beds, trees and shrubs, garden lighting, water features, and fencing. We shall be pleased to supply Local Living readers with free quotes following a site visit with a small charge for further Garden Design Services.”

DIRECTORY Barnsdale Gardens Tel: 01572 813200 or visit www.barnsdalegardens.co.uk Diamond Mowers Tel: 01858 463 932 www.diamondmowers.co.uk Elspeth Stockwell Garden Design Tel: 01949 861090 www.elspethstockwell.co.uk Gretton Garden Services Tel: 01536 772434/07976 286664 Chris Hodgson - Landscape Architect 07812 156809 www.chlandscape.uk Joe’s Lawn Care Tel: 01163 184 189 www.joeslawncare.co.uk Ken Rawson Garden Designs Tel: 01780 481624 www.kenrawsongardendesings.co.uk Langton Greenhouse and Garden Centre Tel: 01858 545819 www.langtongreenhouse.co.uk Langton Stone Company Tel: 01858 545819 Welland Vale Garden Inspirations Tel: 01572 824930 www.wellandvalegardeninspirations.co.uk West Lodge Plants and Gardens Tel: 01536 764255 www.westlodgeplants.co.uk Yvette’s Design Solutions Tel: 01949 876182 www.yvettesdesignsolutions.co.uk

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Traditional Restoration Timber Renovation Specialists Old sash & casement windows, exterior doors & joinery

Window Repair

Why replace your timber windows when you can restore? Traditional Restoration offers a cost-saving alternative to window replacement.

• Repairs and renovations • Overhaul and draught proofing • Reglazing and reputtying • Converting single glazing to double glazing Call James on:

Call James on 01780 752119 info@marramgardens.co.uk www.marramgardens.co.uk

Garden Design & Construction

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KEN RAWSON

GARDEN DESIGNS HELP!

with design problems, hot, dry or shady places, screening issues or just with that idea

You need somebody?

01780 481624

www.kenrawsongardendesigns.co.uk Easton-on-the-Hill, Stamford. Established 1986

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Rutland County Council is offering some FREE refresher driving theory courses aimed at drivers in Rutland.

Offering a friendly, flexible and caring service, I am fully insured and police checked with over 7 years cat sitting experience. References can be supplied if requested.

Covering Rutland, Stamford,Oakham and surrounding areas.

THE COURSES HAVE BEEN ARRANGED ON THE FOLLOWING DATES: Thursday 23rdOctober March Monday 12th Friday 21st Tuesday 3rdApril November

Monday 18th17th September Wednesday March Thursday 12th 24rd October March

2.00 – 4.00 10.00-12.00 10.00 – 12.00 14.00-16.00 2.00 – 4.00 14:00-16:00 10.00 – 12.00 10.00-12.00

Council CouncilChambers, Chambers,Oakham Oakham Council Chambers, Oakham Uppingham Town Hall Council Chambers, Cottesmore Village Oakham Hall Council Chambers, Tinwell Village Hall Oakham

Phone: 07464 679090 Email: sarah@purrfect-catsitting.co.uk Web: www.purrfect-catsitting.co.uk

These courses are for Rutland residents who would like to update their knowledge as well as learn how to drive more safely and efficiently. There will be an opportunity for a practical driving session at a later date.

For more information or to book your place telephone 01572-758248 or email tbarnwell@rutland.gov.uk

Clock & Watch Restoration and Repair Robert Loomes FBHI FRSA Natural Designs @ Barham Stone Ltd Suppliers & Manufactures Of Natural Stone & Quartz For Kitchen Worktops Unit A Eckland Business Park, Desborough Road, Market Harborough, Leicestershire LE16 8HB Opening Times - Mon-Fri 9am-5pm • Sat 9am-12.30pm 01536 764744 • info@barhamstone.com • www.barhamstone.com

Handcrafted Memorials with a friendly service

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4, St Mary’s Hill, Stamford PE9 2DP 01780 481319

Member of The British Watch and Clock Maker’s Guild (Founded 1907)

www.dialrestorer.co.uk

Member of The British Horological Institute (Founded 1858)

House visits, all domestic clocks repaired, high grade repairs to all makes of watches.

Insured, qualified, guaranteed

L O C A L HIST O R Y

Congratulations, Ma’am for your Platinum Year!

Caroline Aston gives us a behind-the-scene peek at the Queen and Prince Phillip’s wedding, 70 years ago.

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LATINUM – the very word breathes luxury and expense.

Silvery white, it is twice the weight of gold, resists corrosion, is extremely pliable and has a very high melting point. All of these qualities could equally as well describe the ingredients of a successful marriage and this year our Queen celebrates the Platinum Anniversary of her wedding in 1947.

Blitz-battered London, pockmarked by bomb sites, was more than ready to party on 20 November, 1947. After six years of grey austerity, Londoners couldn’t wait to be part of what Winston Churchill described as ‘a flash of colour on the hard road we have to travel’. Darkly lovely Princess Elizabeth, heir to her diffident, stammering father George VI (catapulted into kingship by the abdication of his brother Edward VIII nine years before), was to marry her penniless Greek Prince Charming.

Described as having the blonde good looks of a young Viking, Philip of Greece, her husband-to-be, had had a far from conventional childhood. Born on a kitchen table in a Corfu villa called ‘Mon Repos’ in 1921, his family was forced to flee their homeland just one year later. The young prince had a nomadic upbringing and was educated in Berlin and Paris, always under the eye of his ambitious and somewhat scheming uncle, Lord Louis Mountbatten who did all he could to promote a match with Philip’s third cousin Elizabeth.

For her there was never, ever to be any other possible partner from the moment she set eyes on him at Dartmouth in 1939. Thirteen years old and still in ankle socks, the Princess was riveted by the glamorous 18-year-old naval cadet who showed off by jumping over tennis nets and serving up squash and ginger biscuits – the die of romance was cast, well and truly.

Notoriously prickly and outspoken, Philip in later life was to describe their courtship as ‘being something cooked up’ and the chef was undoubtedly Uncle Louis. And the subsequent engagement was not joyfully welcomed by everyone at Buckingham Palace – grey suits sniffed, thinking him arrogant, uncultured and ‘unlikely to be faithful’. But the eyes of the world were on Westminster Abbey on the wintry wedding day 70 years ago.

Designed by royal couturier Norman Hartnell, the bride’s gown was of ivory silk duchesse satin lavishly embroidered with star lily and orange blossom motifs, supposedly inspired by Botticelli’s famous ‘Primavera’ painting. It was encrusted with pearls imported from America: when the

official carrying this precious import was asked by Customs if he had anything to declare he replied “Yes, 10,000 pearls for Princess Elizabeth’s wedding dress!” The train was about four metres long, the bodice tightly fitted to show off the bride’s slender figure and her billowing tulle veil was secured by her grandmother Queen Mary’s diamond fringe tiara, worn as Elizabeth’s ‘something borrowed’ on the day.

Panic ensued when the diadem’s frame broke while being fitted but a lightning repair by a hurriedly summoned jeweller saved the day. The Princess especially wished to wear her father’s wedding present of a double strand of exquisite pearls to complete her look – but remembered it was still on display at the public exhibition of her many gifts! At the last minute it was retrieved and placed around the royal neck.

But there was one other scare to cope with: the bridal bouquet, a selection of three types of superb orchids with a sprig of white myrtle from the bush at Queen Victoria’s former home at Osborne House, Isle of Wight, had been delivered early to Buckingham Palace. An over-zealous footman had put it in a cold cupboard for freshness, forgotten where he’d placed it… and then remembered just in time for the bride’s departure for the Abbey!

Of course, the day was a triumph, with a constellation of bejewelled royalty gathering to witness the fairytale couple. The ‘austerity’ wedding breakfast of (unrationed) partridges, fillets of sole and a bombe surprise was enjoyed by ‘only’ 150 guests, bagpipes played and the speeches were masterpieces of brevity. The cake was nine feet tall, four tiers high and weighed 500lbs. Stuffed full of dried fruit from Australia and awash with rum and brandy from South Africa, the towering creation was nicknamed ‘the 10,000 mile wedding cake’.

Finally the happy couple drove off in an open carriage on their honeymoon, with Princess Elizabeth a picture in Hartnell’s love-in-a-mist blue velvet coat and bonnet crowned with floating ostrich feathers, and her favourite corgi ‘Susan’ tucked under the rugs along with several hot water bottles.

As ‘Country Life’ put it – ‘flags and streamers flowered from every hand and countless periscopes….danced like crystallised sunshine above the tightly packed heads’ (of the crowds).

The rest really is history. Heartiest congratulations, Ma’am for your Platinum Year.

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UPDATES News & Views

Nick De Luca becomes Uppingham School’s Director of Rugby

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ORMER Scotland international rugby union centre Nick De Luca has been appointed as Director of Rugby at Uppingham School.

The highly gifted back, who was capped by his country 43 times until 2014, will retire from playing at his current club Wasps in the Aviva Premiership in June to take up the position - which he will combine with teaching economics and business - after completing an MBA from Heriot-Watt University. He previously achieved a sports science degree at Edinburgh University.

Nick, who turned 33 on 1st February, spent the greater part of his rugby-playing career with Edinburgh, which he represented 128 times, before a two-year spell until last summer with Biarritz in south-west France, a club for which he played on 44 occasions.

Uppingham School’s Headmaster, Dr Richard Maloney, said: “I am delighted and excited that Nick De Luca will be joining our teaching staff this summer as Director of Rugby. He is an outstanding person who will help Uppingham achieve its ambition to be one of the top sporting schools in the country. We are very much looking forward to Nick’s contribution both in that capacity and on the academic side in the Business and Economics Department.

Nick De Luca said: “I am truly excited about joining Uppingham for the next chapter of my life. It has been an incredibly difficult decision to retire from the game, but one that was made easier after I met Richard Maloney and he shared with me his vision for the school.

“I have been privileged to play rugby at the highest level, to be coached by worldclass coaches and to work alongside and against the best players of my generation. It is through these experiences that I believe I can help the next generation of rugby stars at Uppingham achieve their goals, and also instil core values and life skills that will help every level of rugby player excel in their chosen path of life.”

© Wasps

Julian Trevelyan

A classical evening with The Stamford Chamber Orchestra

Join Rutland Water Fly Fishing for the new season

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WICE a BBC Young Musician finalist, 18-year-old pianist Julian Trevelyan plays Beethoven’s first and most playful concerto, a brilliant showpiece for the young Beethoven himself. The gentle heart of the concert is Wagner’s exquisite tone poem, named after his first child, and this enterprising spring programme ends with Prokoviev’s witty and tuneful first symphony.

• Saturday 25th March at 7.30pm in Stamford Arts Centre.

For tickets, call the Box office on 01780 763203 or book at www.stamfordartscentre.com

ANCY trying something a bit different and make the most of the vast lake on our doorstep? The fly fishing season starts this month and Rob at Rutland Water Fly Fishing looks forward to welcoming novices and regulars alike.

Rob offers all types of world-class fly-fishing options for everyone including coaching and guiding for individuals and groups. It’s exhilarating, exciting and great fun - perfect for corporate days, stag and hen dos or just a day out for a group of friends. No experience is needed - Rob and his team will teach you the skills and knowledge needed to catch a trout or two, and offer lakeside lodge guest accommodation at www.thelodgebarnsdale.co.uk • Find out more at www.rutlandwaterflyfishing.co.uk or call Rob on 01572 722422.

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S P RING C L E AN I N G

Spring cleaning made easy Follow these top tips from the industry experts and your home will be sparkling for the coming months ahead.

Words Kirstie Mitchell.

HOME STYLING

If you want to improve the look of your home but don’t know where to start, call in interiors expert, The Home Styling Company.

Denise Cable is a qualified interiors stylist and can provide home staging and decoration advice. Denise can help with a single room makeover or transform a whole house - this is especially beneficial if you are selling your home and need it to be in the best possible condition.

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INTER is over – hurrah! As the days start to get longer and lighter and the sun is finally starting to shine through our windows, it’s time to tackle the annual clean of the year.

Spring is considered the best time of year for the BIG clean historically due to the burning of coal, oil and wood through the cold, winter nights. It might seem a daunting task at first… but if you organise yourself well and break down the tasks, it is not as scary as it might seem.

You might even enjoy it!

CLEANING SERVICES

If you wish to tackle the cleaning yourself follow these tried and tested Molly Maid cleaning tips: Start at the top: start in the highest place in the house. This means you won’t traipse dirt and dust through clean rooms as you move furniture, dispose of items and take rubbish outside.

Work logically: start by tidying, then dust surfaces, clean everything using hot water and suitable products, and finally vacuum. We recommend starting in the top left hand corner of the room, working your way down to the bottom right hand corner so that you can be sure you’ve not missed a spot.

Move the furniture: move furniture into the centre of the room so you can clean behind and underneath objects that normally conceal dirt and dust.

Air rugs and bed linen: take your rugs outside and beat them to extract the dust and debris. Do the same with bed linen if it’s not suitable for the washing machine.

Wash the curtains and cushions, and deep clean the carpets: machine wash (or send them to the dry cleaners) and wash your cushion covers gently too. Now’s also the time to deep clean your carpets, calling on the services of professionals if you have pets or stubborn stains.

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Susan Garon, owner of Molly Maid Rutland and Market Harborough knows what a struggle it can be to take on the whole task of spring cleaning yourself. “Hiring in outside help to get on top of the housework could be the perfect solution for many families who would rather make the most of their spare time outside of work.”

Local business, Merry Maids of Rutland, customise their cleaning services to suit your home. So, if you require a one-off spring clean or a more regular service, they have many years of experience in domestic cleaning.

OVEN CLEANING Oven Fairy’s top tips for a gleaming oven: 1 Switch Oven Off. 2 Ventilation.

3 Wear Protective Clothing/Gloves 4 Remove any loose or caked-on residue before attempting to clean your oven.

5 Cover the area (floor) in front of the oven with old rags/cloths/newspaper as solutions can drip outside of the oven whilst cleaning.

6 Use a specially formulated product to remove tough grease and a toothbrush to clean the hard-to-reach areas, avoiding the heating elements/fan.

7 Use a hard-wearing scrubbing sponge with a medium bristle to bring off the dirt without causing damage.

8 A microfibre cloth is an ideal cloth to wipe away any residue as it won’t leave fibres behind. They are also great for polishing the glass doors and control panel once cleaned.

We all have hectic lifestyles and we all dislike the job of cleaning our ovens – so if all else fails, call in the experts. Oven Fairy specialise in ovens, ranges, AGA, hobs, extractors and much more.

If you need your beloved AGA to stay in mint condition, call in Martin Welsh, AGA engineer. Martin has over 12 years of experience and can install, service, clean and maintain your AGA, ensuring it remains reliable.

DIRECTORY: Merry Maids of Rutland, 0800 085 5632, www.merry-maids.net Molly Maid, 01858 439925, www.mollymaid.co.uk Oven Fairy, 01572 767678, www.ovenfairy.co.uk Martin Welsh, AGA Engineer, 07735 304452/0116 2813219, www.aga-servicing-leicestershire.co.uk Avondale Sweeps, 01536 510865, www.chimneysweepnorthants.co.uk Weaver (UK) Ltd, 01572 759899, www.weaverltd.co.uk Knights of Oakham, 01572 722240, www.knightsofoakham.com The Home Styling Company, 07870 751108, www.thehomestylingcompany.co.uk

CHIMNEY SWEEPS

There is so much to be said about keeping a chimney in good order. UK fire statistics show that each year on average, over 31,000 houses have chimney fires. This will be due, in a large part, to not getting the chimney swept often enough or burning fuel that is inappropriate for the appliance and causing tar to build up in the chimney.

Did you know?

Most insurance companies will no longer pay out for claims made due to chimney fires unless the chimney has been swept by a professional chimney sweep and a valid certificate of sweeping issued that is recognised by insurance companies.

Russell from Avondale Sweeps says, “The best advice is to ensure chimneys are swept regularly by a professionally qualified Chimney Sweep, ideally members of Master Chimney Sweeps to ensure high standards. The sweep can then advise you on the best types of suitable appliances and fuels for the situation. This is valuable in terms of reducing fuel waste thereby saving money, reducing deposits in chimneys which increases safety and reducing air pollutants which benefit us all.”

Avondale Sweeps are members of the Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps. They cover Rutland, Leicestershire and Northamptonshire and issue fully recognised Sweeping certificates.

CARPET CLEANING

Top tips for keeping your carpets in good order:

1 2 3

To prolong the life of your carpets and to prevent build-up of dirt, vacuum at least once a week.

Don’t be tempted to wipe stains, blot them instead.

Use salt and baking soda to remove stains and mix equal parts vinegar and warm water and apply to the area for any smelly stains.

Always test a small area first.

4

Regular deep cleaning carpet treatments can help with persistent stains and deep-seated odours. Local experts in cleaning carpets, rugs, upholstery and all types of stone floors, Weaver (UK) Ltd, operate throughout Rutland and beyond. They use modern techniques to produce lasting results. “Whether you spilled red wine on a white rug or you’re desperate to get your carpet clean before the landlord comes round, our carpet cleaning services can save you!”

Doing it yourself? Knights of Oakham hire out a Wet and Dry Shampoo Cleaner from £15 for 24 hours, and they also sell various steam mops, dry vacuum cleaners and cordless vacuums.

Don’t want to use harsh cleaning chemicals? Give these a try…

Baking soda - useful for cleaning everything in your house without adding toxic chemicals to the mix. You can make a baking soda paste to clean grout in your bathroom and kitchen, scrub out an old porcelain tub, or deodorise your cat’s litter box. It makes sinks look brand new, and even cleans tea stains from glass and plastic containers.

Olive oil – in place of harsh detergents that can strip floors, furniture, and other more delicate items of their beauty, olive oil is a great substitute for wood floor cleaners or furniture polish, and it makes the natural wood grain shine like the sun – no toxins added. Olive oil may also repair scratches in your leather furniture. It can add shine to stainless steel appliances, and even keep rattan and wicker furniture from cracking.

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MARCH 2017

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Trust the domestic cleaning experts at MOLLY MAID That’s what tens of thousands of people around the world do!

• Uniformed and professionally trained staff • 100% guaranteed and fully insured • Regular or occasional cleans • Free in-home estimate

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Weaver Ltd is a specialist cleaning company based in Oakham with all the equipment and materials necessary to carefully clean and restore your precious carpets & upholstery.

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WEAVING MAGIC

Styling for Living or Staging for Selling Do you want to make changes to your home but are overwhelmed with choice?

I can design a scheme for you, helping to maximize what you have and add those finishing touches that make all the difference. From a single room to a whole house I will be able to work within your budget.

Or do you need to prepare your property for sale to attract the broadest market and secure the highest price?

Home staging is an investment that combined with good marketing and a realistic selling price should make you money. I can help you stage your property before it goes on the market, or if it is on the market and not selling.

• Free initial telephone consultation • Home consultation visit followed by a Bespoke Styling for Living or Staging for Selling Report £150 Also available: Hands on Styling, Detailed Home Owner Action Plan, Full Project Management

Contact Denise Cable T 07870 751108 info@thehomestylingcompany.co.uk

www.thehomestylingcompany.co.uk 35

H EA L T H & B EA U T Y

A fresh look for spring Stuck in a make-up rut? Skin looking a bit lacklustre? Fear not, Catherine Varney has all the kit you need to reveal naturally beautiful skin this spring…

Super-smooth skin:

Photos: Nkima De Faria, http://nkimaphotography.com

One of the best ways to slough away dead skin cells and reveal fresh, radiant skin is with a SkinBase microdermabrasion facial. I paid a visit to SkinBase expert Sam Eaton who is a firm advocate of this treatment. She told me: “SkinBase is a chemical free, non-invasive treatment that uses ultra-fine micro-crystals to exfoliate the skin and remove impurities. It achieves amazing results revealing younger, healthier looking skin from the very first treatment. With each subsequent treatment, the intensity of the microdermabrasion can be increased – reaching deeper layers and successfully removing acne scarring, lifting pigmentation and smoothing fine lines and wrinkles.”

Sam invited me to try it for myself and after a gentle ‘sandblasting’ with the crystals, she applied a soothing, moisturising mask and finished with a deep conditioning cream with SPF. My skin felt immediately clearer and less congested, with a noticeable reduction in pore size. Two days on and there’s certainly no need for the full coverage foundation I would normally use. Single treatments start from just £35 and Sam is offering 20% off a course for brides and grooms until the end of August this year.

Make-up with the ‘wow’ factor For a special occasion, you simply can’t beat professional Airbase make-up. Sam is also qualified in this field and told me: “Airbase is a unique mix of ingredients with silicone at the heart of its formulation: it feels beautiful and luxurious on the skin and doesn’t clog your

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pores, allowing your skin to breathe. It’s particularly resistant to heat (ideal for television use due to the hot lights) and for everyday purposes it easily stands up to 12 hours’ wear, making it ideal for brides. When applied with an airbrush, you atomise the foundation, providing smaller, less visible particles than when conventionally applied, giving a truly flawless finish. Plus, we have the option to mix as many of the 7 shades together as we want, creating a truly customised shade for each client.” Our stunning model in our main feature photograph is wearing a light Airbase application (and also had a SkinBase facial prior to this to give her skin that extra glow).

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MARCH 2017

Mineral make-up

If it’s everyday make-up you’re after then a mineral brand is a must. Creme Hair and Beauty stock the Mii range of cosmetics, and the beauty team there told me: “The natural minerals warm to your skin for flawless, effortless coverage that actually benefits your skin’s health. It contains zinc which is a proven healer, plus they’re easy to blend whilst the soft pigments suit all skin tones. One of our personal favourites is the Irresistable Face Base which leaves skin with a gorgeous natural glow that’s perfect for spring time. We also recommend you try the Divine Illuminator, subtly applied to the top of your cheeks, down the centre panel of your nose and just under the brow bone for natural contoured perfection. Finish with the Forever Eye Colour Crayon in ‘Sorbet’; a soft, rose quartz colour that blends incredibly easily for quick application.”

Back to basics It’s not just the skin on your face that needs attention, it’s also time for some TLC on other areas of your body that have been covered up over the winter.

Lottie Davies at Aroha Beauty House in Uppingham offers the temptingly titled ‘Aroha Back Glow’ for £35 and told me: “The skin on our back is often neglected and can get congested from daily shampoo and sweat. The Aroha Back Glow is an invigorating yet relaxing treatment. We have a gorgeous, zesty fresh lemongrass and mandarin body scrub which we use over the whole back before massaging with lemongrass and mandarin oil which rehydrates and nourishes the skin. The citrus scents are very fresh and revitalising; it prepares the skin for early holidays people may be taking and ‘scrubs’ away a lot of congestion, both mentally and physically”.

Teenage skin Teenage skin can be tricky, not least because of hormonal break-outs but in some cases, a less than regular skincare regime can be the culprit of acne, pimples and blackheads. But help is at hand from Olive Tanning and Beauty and their newly stocked Dermalogica products.

Beauty therapist Gilly who works at Olive has a teenage son herself and is welcoming, approachable and incredibly knowledgeable; in fact, the perfect person to have a skin consultation with! Gilly can advise on all aspects of your teenager’s skincare routine and recommend the appropriate products for problematic skin. A great place to start is the Dermalogica Breakout Clearing Kit, which costs £23.75 and contains a foaming wash, toner, daytime treatment, matte moisturiser and overnight treatment to reduce excess sebum, remove impurities and prevent future breakouts.

Make-up for beginners If your daughter fancies experimenting with make up for the first time, then take her along to the new Ellique shop and nail bar. They stock the fabulous Barry M range, which includes a variety of products at pocket-money prices. A quick browse in there revealed some of my favourites (which I’m sure my eldest daughter would be only too keen to borrow too!): The ‘Make me blush’ cream glides on effortlessly: choose either rhubarb crumble or raspberry charlotte for a pretty pink glow (£4.49); Lip Oils that nourish dry, cracked lips with a hint of colour (£4.99); Afterglow Light Bronzer offers a natural, luminous finish (£5.69) and finally set it all with the perfect finisher: Flawless Mist and Fix make-up setting spray; perfect for ensuring foundation won’t shift on oily skin (£4.99).

Refresh your make-up bag Out with the old and in with the new! Make-up should be replaced more often than you may think: so stock up now, you have a great excuse…

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Mascara should be renewed every 3 months to avoid an eye infection and if you use it every day, it will probably be dried up and cakey by this point anyway. If you fancy full-on lashes in just a few coats try Marc Jacobs Velvet Noir Major Volume Mascara (£20).

2

It’s recommended that you replace foundation once a year – but let’s face it, it’s unlikely you’ll find a bottle that lasts that long anyway. This spring, try Maybelline Dream Cushion Liquid Foundation – applied with a sponge, it offers full yet luminous coverage in a choice of 8 shades and has rave reviews (available to buy in the UK soon).

3

In powder form, blushers and bronzers should last for a couple of years as they don’t contain oils or water. For a flattering, sparkle-free bronzer that will give you a sun-kissed glow, try Hoola by Benefit (£23.50).

4

Make-up sponges are meant to be replaced monthly but whilst most of us won’t throw them away that frequently, it’s a good idea to get into the habit of washing them regularly to avoid product and bacteria build-up. The Real Techniques Miracle complexion sponges from Boots provide flawless results and at £7.49 for two, they won’t break the bank either.

5

Ditch your lippy after a year if you haven’t finished it by then as the preservatives start to break down and you won’t get the same, glossy finish you’re used to. This season, try YSL Rouge Volupte Shine in Nude in Private (# 9)– a soft, dusky pink that will suit every skin tone (£26).

6

Pop it all in the stylish Charlotte Tilbury make-up bag (£15) and you’ll be ready to face spring in style.

DIRECTORY Samantha Eaton MGBT, Tel: 07787 422948, www.seatonmakeup.wix.com/beauty Creme Hair and Beauty, The Old Church, 8 Mill Street, Oakham, Tel 01572 723823, www.cremehairandbeauty.co.uk Ellique, 55 South Street, Oakham Tel: 01572 723950 Olive Tanning & Beauty Studio, 5&6 Crown Walk, Oakham, Tel: 01572 755750 Aroha Beauty House, 43 High Street East, Tel: 01572 822853 RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MARCH 2017

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One of the questions I get asked a lot is regarding celebrities’ hair and how, if I were given the opportunity I would change their look. I decided to take three of my stylists up on the challenge and see what they came up with, I tend to agree with their notes and have added a few points of my own as well so that we can take their ideas and use them every day.

Sarah-Jane. Melton Mowbray.

Helen Mirren

For me she gets it right 99.9% of the time, whilst she embraces her lighter hair colouring she has added a lot of choppy layers that create body and width to her hair and face. If it’s a big occasion she has shown that she is not afraid to go with a splash of pastel colour, a dash of pink made for a great look. This is easily achieved with a wash out toner which is a great way to add some interest to your hair for a party or reception.

The hair is never to long however, it is just long enough to enable her to style it in several different ways, a great example of a versatile cut that really works.

TP: Try heated rollers or add some more volume to your hair with a styling wand, don’t be afraid to embrace shorter layers, but make sure the cut is correct otherwise it will not sit evenly.

Tierni Bozeat. Loughborough.

The Duchess of Cambridge aka Kate Middleton A tricky one as Kate needs her hair to work every day, whether on Royal Duties all over the world or at home being a mother of two. I do think that over the past few years her hair has seemed to get longer and longer, and the trade mark wave that we saw at her wedding has been lost due to the added weight of that extra few inches.

So for me I would take the hair to just below the shoulders, keep the cut really simple and easy to manage. Encourage the wave but only have longer layers throughout adding more movement. This way it can still be tied back but also, when down, frames her face and with darker, subtle tones through the hair makes the whole look much younger.

TP: Perfect advice, taking some length but not overdoing it will allow the hairs natural wave. Something a good blow dry can fight against but the elements will always expose, better to go with the hair than fight against it.

Wayne Groocock. Oakham.

Donald Trump. President of the USA Shave it all off. Simple as that.

TP: Could not have said it better myself!

I look forward to seeing you soon.

Thomas Oakham 01572 756561 Melton Mowbray 01664 566812 Loughborough 01509 211010 Email: thomas@thomashairdressing.co.uk

www.thomashairdressing.co.uk 38

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Orion House, 14, Barn Hill, Stamford, PE9 2AE Church Street Practice, Melton Mowbray LE13 0PN

PEO PL E

The power of scent and touch birth and fewer instances of What is aromatherapy and “Not only is it a truly newborn complications, such as how does it help? wonderful experience, but low birth weight.

Aromatherapy is the use of So not only is it a truly aromatic plant extracts for it also has evidence-based wonderful experience, but healing purposes. It has been benefits to both mum-to-be it also has evidence-based in existence for over 6,000 and baby” benefits to both mum-to-be years, using nature to help with and baby. many aspects of our health and When used by a fully overall wellness. The essential qualified aromatherapist, oils of plants and flowers essential oils can be safely can be obtained from their combined with massage or delicate petals to their sturdy used alone to great effect roots, giving us a vast array of during pregnancy. Several properties and aromas. clinical studies suggest Whether you are in a that when essential oils – health spa or hospital, you’re particularly rose, lavender likely to find these incredible and frankincense – were used essential oils being used to during pregnancy women had treat a variety of conditions in a stronger sense of wellbeing a range of ways. Research has Nina Young, clinical aromatherapist, infant massage shown that aromatherapy is instructor and owner of Leicestershire-based company and had less need for pain medications during delivery. particularly effective at aiding Baby Alchemy explains how aromatherapy can benefit Many women also report that relaxation, thus giving deeper peppermint oil relieves nausea and more restful sleep. Oils both you and your tot. and vomiting during labour as such as lavender, rose, orange, well as during the first trimester. bergamot, lemon and sandalwood have been shown to relieve anxiety, stress and depression.

Baby massage and aromatherapy But don’t be fooled, the benefits don’t stop there.

Massaging your beautiful new baby has numerous benefits for you both.

Some of the benefits for your baby include improving their weight gain, Aromatherapy pregnancy massage Pregnancy massage is very similar to a normal massage but is specifically aiding digestion, improving circulation and easing teething pain.

Many studies have also shown that massaging your baby can reduce tailored to meet the ever-changing needs of each mum-to-be. It is vital crying and fussiness, help them sleep more peacefully and alleviate that the growing tummy, back, hips and feet are properly supported in an constipation and colic. array of carefully considered positions.

Mums and caregivers have massaged their babies for 100s of years as Aching muscles are something that most mums-to-be will experience. it is such a special way to bond with your little one. Massaging your baby Massage is a superb way to help relieve these discomforts – muscles are also stimulates the release of oxytocin, the hormone that gives that lovely relaxed, the pressure on nerves released and circulation is increased. warm, cosy feeling when you cuddle your baby, sometimes known as the Not only will a pregnancy massage help to alleviate aches and pains ‘feel good hormone’. but it has a wonderful effect on hormones – a study carried out by For some mums this feeling might not be as strong as they had the American Pregnancy Association in September 2016 found that imagined, but baby massage has been proven to help and many mums hormones such as norepinephrine and cortisol (hormones associated have found baby massage to be very beneficial. When all of these benefits with stress) were reduced and dopamine and serotonin levels were are combined with the power of aromatherapy, you have numerous longincreased (low levels of these hormones are associated with depression). lasting benefits.

These changes in hormone levels also led to fewer complications during

About Nina & Baby Alchemy “I am a mum to three wonderful boys whose life mission it is jump in every muddy puddle in Leicestershire, scoot on every path and discover all that is currently undiscovered!

I trained and qualified as a Clinical Aromatherapist and Infant Massage instructor in 2006, but Baby Alchemy has only recently been born. I specialise in therapeutic aromatherapy massage to pregnant women, working on a one-to-one basis with mums-to-be and their birthing partners teaching massage and also run baby massage and aromatherapy courses across Leicestershire.”

• To find out more, call Nina on 07808 608 746 or visit www. babyalchemy.co.uk

Have a new arrival or a little one on the way?

Be sure to visit Natures Purest, which stocks organically grown and naturally coloured cotton products including nursery bedding, baby clothes and toys.

3 Adam & Eve Street, Market Harborough www.naturespurest.co.uk Check out Two Little Magpies, a lux range of clothes and gifts for babies and children that stimulate visual, cognitive and social development in children. www.twolittlemagpies.net RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MARCH 2017

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HARBOROUGH HAPPENINGS Shops & Services in Market Harborough

Spring news from Eyebrook Wild Bird Feeds

W

HILE we might think that feeding the birds is solely for winter, Fay and Abigail, the sisters behind Eyebrook Wild Bird Feeds can reveal otherwise.

“Feeding birds all year round is now fully endorsed by bird experts. You’ll give them a better chance to survive the periods of severe weather whenever they occur, and ensure that the birds are in good breeding condition coming into the spring.

“Now spring has sprung, you will see more activity in your garden as birds begin their mating season. It’s an interesting and exciting time of the year. By now, birds will have found their partners and will be busy stocking up on food for energy so that they have reserves for the busy season. They also scout out locations for a nesting site; having a nesting box in your garden will provide much-needed shelter from harsh weather and predators.

“Once the couple have settled on a nesting site, the female will begin to lay eggs, usually one a day at around dawn. After 16-22 days the eggs start to hatch and the chicks appear! The parents now have to feed all of the new hungry mouths, so you can help them.

“We recommend feeding high-protein seeds, our Eyebrook fledgling mix contains all the ingredients necessary for young birds to thrive.”

A family-run business in the heart of the Welland Valley at Great Easton, Eyebrook Wild Bird Feeds produce high-quality garden birdseed using their own and locally grown ingredients. Buy online or over the phone and have products delivered to your door, or take advantage of considerable savings that are available at the shop. Make sure you take a look around the farm while you’re there – Rectory Farm has 120 breeding ewes so you will no doubt spot some baby lambs while you’re there.

• Visit www.eyebrookwildbirdseeds.co.uk for their full range of products plus information about conservation and walks at Rectory farm.

Spoil Mum with a gift from Ada Gallery

V Medbourne Tennis Club welcomes new tennis coach

F

ORMER head coach at Leicestershire Lawn Tennis Club Bruce Tarran has become head coach at Medbourne Tennis Club.

Bruce is an experienced coach with the highest level of LTA accreditation and decades of experience of coaching adults and juniors of all ages and standards up to national level. He’s looking to develop a varied adult and junior programme at Medbourne from four-year-old beginners upwards and is also available for individual lessons. All children are welcome and the first session is free!

• Contact Bruce on 07958 494182 or tarrantennis@btinternet.com.

Medbourne Sports Club, Hallaton Road, LE16 8DR

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ISIT Ada Gallery for a unique special gift this Mother’s Day. Ada is a beautiful boutique-style gallery based in Market Harborough, showcasing contemporary handcrafted jewellery and adornments from more than 50 top and emerging designer makers from throughout the UK. With a unique and extensive selection including handbags, scarves, metalware spoons and bowls and such like, it promotes the very best of British craftsmanship.

• Ada Gallery, 4 The Courtyward, Bennett’s Place, 30-31 High Street, Market Harborough.

Open Wednesday to Saturday 10am to 5pm.

01858 461896 www.adagallery.co.uk

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MARCH 2017

Champagne truffles from Nenette Chocolates

edible16: shop local using Click and Collect

I

N 2014, Sustainable Harborough established Harborough-based edible16 as a not-for profit click and collect online shopping service. edible16 is all about bringing the very best of locally produced food and drink to those who live in the Market Harborough District. It sources only local suppliers for food and drink produced within 20 miles of Market Harborough, a great initiative to support local farmers and producers whilst reducing the amount of food miles and fuel used too. A vast selection of fruit, vegetables, meat, bread and cheese to chocolates, wine, beer and spirits are available including edible gift ideas. Specialist items are also available such as antibiotic-free pork and beef, pasture-fed beef and lamb, and delicious pies.

There are now many more local suppliers including Nenette Chocolates, Duncan Murray Wines, Taste Creations and Clipston Egg Company. It’s easy to order online at www.edible16.org.uk. Simply select your items, add them to your basket and pay!

Free delivery within a 20-mile radius of Market Harborough.

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LEA RN I N G

Changing children’s lives Help for youngsters with social, emotional and mental health issues can be hard to find especially when you really need it. Kate Cadman visits Wilds Lodge School, an independent school on our doorstep dedicated to supporting boys for whom mainstream education is no longer an option

From left: Becky McSharry, Kirsty Lamb, Alice Lee and Emma Mills.

T

HE overwhelming sense of calm that emanates from the meandering driveway on the approach to Wilds Lodge School feels ironic. I know from the conversations I have had that parents bringing their child here are often ‘broken’; feeling isolated and desperate as they journey down this impressively long driveway past a picturesque duckpond and roaming livestock.

Maybe that’s precisely why, on my arrival, I feel as if I have reached my holiday destination.

Nestling neatly between Stamford and Empingham the school radiates a sense of calm.

It’s one of three Wilds Lodge sites, all of which are dedicated to educating boys between 5 and 18 years old for whom mainstream education is no longer viable. Wilds Lodge School has 90 such boys, the majority are weekly boarders and all have a Statement of Special Educational Needs (SEN) or Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP).

“Many of the boys here have some level of autism or ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and moderate learning difficulties,” explains Becky McSharry, Autism Co-ordinator and Team Leader for the Bungalow House Group (one of the five residential houses). “They often arrive with lots of questions about who they are because they feel they don’t fit within a mainstream school setting. Our students also have additional needs resulting from social,

42

emotional and behavioural difficulties. Our work is to build them back up.”

18-year-old Ollie Wilson has been at Wilds Lodge for three years and the experience has been life-changing. After studying at mainstream college and missing a total of two years’ study due to mental health issues, Ollie, who has OCD, found he couldn’t cope with the hectic, strict, and loud environment in a mainstream setting. “I couldn’t keep up with my mind. It was like a sensory overload. If I ever had to sit an exam I would suffer with facial tics and headaches. I was always judged in mainstream school and seen as being stupid.”

“Here at Wilds Lodge I get the support I need but I am not pressurised so I can keep up. I never thought I would be able to sit and pass an exam but with the right support I have just got an A* in my maths GCSE and passed five other GCSEs. I just needed people to understand me.”

In addition, Ollie has recently completed his Bronze Level Duke of Edinburgh Award and is currently training hard physically and mentally in order to fulfil his (and his coach’s) dream of being picked to represent Great Britain at American Football. “I have been playing for a couple of years and it’s always been like a dream for me to represent this country. It’s now a reality.”

“We work as a therapeutic school linking care seamlessly with education and therapy.

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING MARCH 2017

The staff here work holistically in a counselling role, placing equal emphasis on the educational, social, and psychological development of their students. All staff, including kitchen and grounds, who come into daily contact with the boys undergo a basic level of special needs training and have Level One Autism Education Trust training and the majority also have a Level 2,” explains Becky.

This inclusive philosophy is driven by Principal and Head Teacher, Robin Lee, who is keen to ensure all members of staff attend regular training on child protection, mental health and multi-agency working. The key to the success of the school, he believes, is a strong ethos, developed by a highly experienced and capable staff and the strength of the relationships between staff and students.

“Everyone here pulls together for the boys, we are like one huge family. We really do change children’s lives,” adds Becky.

There is tangible feel of progression at the school borne out by a team of groundsmen beavering away on the construction of an eco-building which is scheduled to open as the school’s theatre by September 2017. “The boys don’t like change so we promote change here so that they learn how to cope with it. We don’t isolate ourselves here either, in fact we welcome visitors with open arms. We like to encourage people to come in and see how we are doing.

Ollie Wilson

We hold a music and arts festival annually and invite the locals to come and watch our band perform,” says Becky.

During its 10-year history, the school has notched up some impressive awards including an Ofsted ‘Outstanding’, an International Eco School Award and a very recent reaccreditation by the National Autistic Society which lasts for three years. Currently Wilds Lodge is shortlisted for two Times Educational Supplement (TES) Awards which are for Healthy School of the Year and Special Needs Initiative School.

This joined-up education, care and therapy provision is in short supply and the school’s catchment area reflects this, stretching from Sussex to Norfolk and including students from London. “We have a tight curriculum during the day and the evenings are used to develop social interaction skills and play,” explains Emma Mills, Head of Education. Key Stage 2 students look forward to their beloved Lego club which, whilst building ‘cool’ models, also serves as an opportunity to enhance social skills such as team building, turn taking and general communication.

Becky explains: “We begin by building a small, simple model which can be finished in one session. As time goes by the group progresses and the tasks grow in size and complexity. We assign roles so one student will be the engineer, one becomes the supplier and the other is the

“Here at Wilds Lodge I get the support I need but I am not pressurised so I can keep up. I never thought I would be able to sit and pass an exam but with the right support I have just got an A* in my maths GCSE and passed five other GCSEs. I just needed people to understand me.” builder. Using the instructions, the engineer has to describe, using words only, the piece he requires to the supplier. Once the supplier has found it, he hands it to the builder and, once again, it’s down to the engineer to explain (without any hand gestures) to the builder where that piece should be placed.”

This intense, yet fun, and rewarding group work combined with a routine of daily sensory circuits aids students in a holistic way which in turn helps concentrations levels. At Crossroads, another of the school’s sites, situated just outside Empingham, students have the space to pursue a wide variety of vocational pursuits such as motor vehicle studies, construction, catering, health and physical fitness and equine studies.

In addition, the constant drive to reinvest funds and improve facilities has resulted in the

installation of a state-of-the-art 4D room which allows the user to recreate any scenario. Using an iPad, the room can simulate, for example, an airport building or an air raid shelter, complete with sound track and imagery. This equipment can be used in many different ways and is very useful for recreating a particularly difficult situation for a student and then used to help desensitise them to that particular circumstance. A sensory garden is also under construction in the grounds which is due to be completed next summer.

At the top end of the school is Rock Lodge, the third site to make up the School’s campus, and the one which houses mainly post 16s.

Students here are encouraged to develop independent living skills and can walk into town on their own and take public transport on a visit home. The boys are well managed and are supported in daily tasks such as supermarket shopping, budgeting and cooking their own evening meals.

All the students that wish to, get to go on a school holiday each year. In the past, the younger boys have travelled to the east coast and holidayed in Norfolk whilst the older boys took a trip to Spain last year. “We like to give all the students lots of new experiences. Every year we take the whole school to Hunstanton for the day and eat chips on the green which is always great fun,” adds Emma.

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val Finale ti s e F s d o o W r u O The CORBY ’S EBRATING

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oughsale Wood Enjoy a magical walk through Thor Gerrard, and be Cat r, Pipe to the Boating Lake led by Pied of the Forest ers Flow s ulou Fab ed inat enchanted by illum ol in scho ary created by children from every Prim and inan Cull hie Corby & Weldon, led by Sop nted by students from Magical Woodland Creatures inve

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OUT & ABOUT Amander Meade selects the best entertainment in the region this month March at Barnsdale Gardens by Hamilton Photography

Throughout March Courses and events galore including Rose Pruning, Perfect Plants for Problem Places, Organic Vegetable Growing, Plant Propagation and a Watercolour Painting day with Sandra Peck.

Celebrate Mother’s Day with a special cream tea and garden visit on Sunday 26 March. Garden admission £7/£6/£3.50.

Entry to the gift shop, nursery and tea room is free.

Barnsdale Gardens, near Exton.

For more information or booking call 01572 813200 or www.barnsdalegardens. co.uk Thursday 2 March, 10am to 4pm EVENT: Bonham’s Valuation Day

Kelmarsh Hall

A team of Bonham’s specialists will be available by appointment to provide confidential valuations on any items including Asian art, jewellery, silver, clocks, watches, pictures, ceramics, glass, sculpture, works of art, coins and medals.

Visits to your home may also be arranged for larger items or collections.

Kelmarsh Hall To make an appointment call 01564 776151 Sunday 19 March, 6.15pm for 7pm EVENT: Music in Ashley Church The three members of West End Encore have all had many years’ experience on the West End stage and will perform favourite songs from the most

popular musicals. An unforgettable treat in association with Rotary International.

St Mary the Virgin Church, Ashley Tickets on 01858 565294 priced £15 including the first glass of wine and canapés.

Under 15s are admitted free.

Wednesday 22 March, 7.30pm TALK: The Glory of the Garden Great Easton & District Local History Society welcome the noted historic gardener Michael Brown with a talk entitled ‘The Glory of the Garden’ about the work of Victorian and Edwardian head gardeners.

Great Easton Village Hall £2 admission for visitors

Saturday March 25 2017 at 7.30pm CONCERT: From Puccini to the Movies Critically acclaimed five-piece ensemble, Fordante return with a spectacular new concert of some of the most beautiful light classics and opera arias performed alongside a mix of popular film music, plus a handful of Fordante’s own enchanting and mesmerising worldly and Celtic-inspired songs.

Wing Village Hall Tickets £10 each at 01572 737394.

Tuesday 28 March to Saturday 1 April, 7.30pm with matinees Friday and Saturday MUSICAL THEATRE: Rent See a brand-new production of the legendary, multi awardwinning rock musical Rent as it celebrates its 20th anniversary. This exhilarating, landmark musical tells the story of a group of impoverished young artists struggling to survive in New York City’s East Village in the thriving days of Bohemian excess. Winner of four Tony Awards, six Drama Desk Awards and the hugely prestigious Pulitzer Prize for Drama, it ran on Broadway for an astonishing 12 years.

Curve, Leicester Tickets from £14.50 call 0116 242 3595 or www. curveonline.co.uk Tuesday 4 April to Saturday 8 April THEATRE: Bouncers by John Godber Set in the 1980s at a Northern Night Spot, the play features four doormen (or Bouncers) who play multiple parts to reflect the goings on at the club.

Harborough Theatre Tickets £10, concessions £8, (online booking fee applies), or at the theatre Tuesdays and Saturdays 9.30am – 11.30 am.

Wednesday 5 April to Saturday 8 April 7.30pm (Saturday matinee 2.30pm) MUSICAL THEATRE: Anything Goes Market Harborough Musical Theatre is setting sail on the good ship SS America on a transatlantic voyage with a very varied selection of passengers.

A vibrant show in the best tradition of musical theatre and a must see for those who love the Cole Porter standards.

Welland Park Academy Theatre, Market Harborough Tickets from Ideology, St Mary’s Road or at mhmt. ticketsource.co.uk

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UPDATES News & Views

Rutland Sinfonia’s 40th anniversary concerts

R

UTLAND Sinfonia is celebrating its 40th anniversary this season and to celebrate this milestone in the history of the orchestra, there are two concerts in both Oakham and Oundle, with a tremendous variety of music planned for both venues.

The next concert is in Oakham School Chapel at 7.30pm on Saturday 11 March. “Barry Collett and I will be sharing the conducting,” Musical Director Paul Hilliam explains. “Barry is including ‘Air de Ballet’, a piece by Elgar previously thought to be lost, but recently rediscovered. I’m looking forward to conducting the Double Concerto by Brahms, with violinist Diego Vassallo and his father, cellist Eduardo Vassallo. Eduardo is Principal Cello of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and Rutland Sinfonia’s Musical Patron.”

• Tickets are available on the door or in advance from Oakham Wines, 3 High Street, Oakham.

Dyslexia Roadshow comes to Oakham

O

N 1 April 2017 Rutland Dyslexia, an outreach service of the Dyslexia Association in Nottingham, is holding a grand Road Show at the Victoria Hall in Oakham.

This is a great opportunity for parents, teachers, employers, and dyslexic adults to meet dyslexia experts who will listen and offer advice. There will be information stands, displays and sales of materials and books suitable for all ages and learning abilities. Also on sale will be educational games, learning aids, assistive technology, audio books and toys.

“Our previous annual Saturday Oakham road shows each attracted between 250 and 300 people,” explained Mary Parker, Chair of Rutland Dyslexia.

“As 10% of the population experience dyslexia, anything we can do to spread understanding of this difference in learning will enhance the lives of dyslexic people.”

• Dyslexia Roadshow: 10am to 3pm at Victoria Hall, High Street, Oakham. Entry is free.

Is Brexit set to restrain local property price rises in 2017?

W

HILE Brexit has not yet had a sizeable impact on the Stamford and Rutland housing market, my analysis is pointing to the fact that the economic viewpoint still remains uncertain and property price growth is likely to be more subdued in 2017. That isn’t a bad thing, and here’s why…

Since last summer, apart from a little wobble of uncertainty a few weeks after the Referendum vote, property values (and the economy) on the whole have outperformed expectations. In fact, looking at the property prices for South Kesteven District Council area, these were the results:October 2016 September 2016 August 2016 July 2016 June 2016

- drop of 1.05% - drop of 0.25% - rise of 1.06% - rise of 2.47% - rise of 1.68%

The UK property market continues to perform robustly with annual price growth set to end this year at 6.91% and most of the East Midlands region

property market at 7.52%.

Talking to fellow agents in David Crooke, owner London, the significant tidal & managing director wave of growth seen from of UPP Property 2013 to 2015 has subdued over the last six months. However, as that central London house price wave has started to ripple out, agents are starting to see stronger property growth areas outside of the M25.

The Stamford and Rutland property market is more driven by sentiment and confidence. The main forces for a weaker local property market relate to economic uncertainty surrounding the Brexit process, which I believe will impact unhelpfully on consumer confidence in the run up to and just after the serving of the Section 50 Notice.

In addition, the influence of reforms to the taxation of landlords is expected to result in a reduced demand from buy-to-let landlords, which will limit upward pressure on property values.

However, demand from tenants remains strong, but this has been counterbalanced by a strong supply of rental properties.

In my opinion, there is a slight risk of rents stagnating in 2017, but by 2018 they will rise again to counteract Philip Hammond’s changes to tenant fees. See the archive section of my blog ‘www. rutlandandstamfordpropertyblog.co.uk’ for more on this hot topic.

The broader Stamford and Rutland rental market looks relatively positive with modest rental growth expected, and rents might rise further if some landlords sell properties in an effort to offset to the impact of tax rises.

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UPDATES News & Views

Stamford Shoestring presents hilarious classic ‘Tartuffe’

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ROM 7 to 11 March, Stamford’s Shoestring Theatre company kicks off an energetic new season with a Roger McGough’s brilliant adaptation of the classic comedy, Tartuffe.

Molière’s famous seventeenth century comedy is relocated to Paris just after the Suez crisis in the 1950s, with the iconic music and fashions of that time.

First written as a direct attack on the church and privately watched by the King, the play was originally banned in France and only became available to the public after the direct attack had been reduced to a general denunciation of hypocrisy.

Liz Cullum, Director, says: “With its portrayal of a charlatan who manages to fool some of the people most of the time, Tartuffe is a play that has stood the test of time and remains compellingly relevant today. This adaptation by Roger McGough is a brilliant mix of wit, satire, and farce, with just the right amount of serious drama thrown in for good measure, and it is shaping up to be an entertaining night out that you simply wouldn’t want to miss.’

• For more information on Tartuffe, or to book tickets, visit the Stamford Arts Centre website at www.stamfordartscentre.com.

Tim Clough presents Highly Commended award to Dr Hardwick

Rutland Built Environment Awards

T

HE presentation of the annual Built Environment Awards for new, refurbished and historic buildings in Rutland took place recently at Oakham Castle.

The George Phillips Built Environment Award was presented by Tim Clough of Rutland Local History & Record Society to Graham Sloan of Francis Jackson Estates for Rosewood Close, a development of 25 individually designed cottage style properties on the site of a former wood yard.

The new Uppingham School Science Centre, in Stockerston Road, Uppingham, which includes 15 state-of-the-art laboratories and a lecture theatre, was Highly Commended.

The Barn, The Street, South Luffenham, was the winner of the Tony Traylen Built Environment Award for historic buildings for its impressive conversion from a listed barn to create a four-bedroom private dwelling belonging to Nick and Lisa Bellamy. The work was carried out by C & F Building Services.

The Studio Barn, Manton, was commended in the Tony Traylen Awards for the conversion and extension of an eighteenth century agricultural barn to create a fitness centre for owner Dr Mary Hardwick. The barrel-roofed extension houses the main studio, which is used for specialised fitness and rehabilitation classes.

The awards ceremony was organised by Rutland Local History and Record Society, and judging was undertaken jointly by the Society and Rutland County Council.

Following the ceremony, Robert Clayton, Head of Culture and Registration at Rutland County Council, presented a talk on The Oakham Castle Project in which he described the recent lottery funded project to restore and upgrade the Castle Hall and its grounds.

Rock out this spring at The Grainstore Brewery

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Keith Farnan

ROM local bands to visitors from Down Under, there’s a great mix of music and comedy you’d be mad to miss this March.

Highlights include ‘Real Monsters’, who will be rocking out to The Who, Jimi Hendrix, Nirvana, Muse and The Artic Monkeys on Saturday 4th March.

Then ‘The Reason’ will be offering a great mix of classic indie, pop and rock songs from Queen to Crowded House on Saturday 11th.

On Thursday 30th March, award-winning funny woman Zoe Lyons will be joined by Irish charmer Keith Farnan for a double-headline slot. With a wealth of awards and TV

appearances between them, it promises to be a great night out with two of the country’s brightest comedy stars.

Rounding up the March madness at The Grainstore is Geoff Achison and the Souldiggers on Friday, 31st March. Geoff is an award-winning blues-roots artist from Australia known for his energetic live performances and unique guitar mastery.

• To get a full list of events at The Grainstore Brewery and for more information, visit www.grainstorebrewery.co.uk/events or call 01572 770065.

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PR O F IL E

Dance the Night Away with Strictly Star Pasha Strictly Come Dancing professional Pasha Kovalev has scored more ‘10s’ than any other dancer on the show. He tells Amander Meade about his life in dance and his exciting new tour.

What inspired you to become a dancer?

I grew up in Siberia and was about eight years old when I went to watch a dance show with my mum. Nobody in the family had ever danced but I think my mum had always secretly wanted to. I was amazed by the show and had never seen so many pretty girls so that was the initial attraction for me…

I began ballroom and Latin classes that September and was the only boy among 20 girls so was a little distracted to begin with.

How did you turn professional?

I would say that I was aiming to dance professionally from the very beginning. Dance is taken very seriously in Russia and competition whether in sport or dance is regarded as very important and prestigious.

By the time I was 14, I was travelling to compete regularly across Europe and had to work part time to fund my travels. I have danced with Anja for many years and we won many competitions together so it’s great that she is joining me as my special guest on this tour.

You were working in the USA dancing on TV when the Strictly call came – what has the show meant to you?

Strictly is such a dream – any dancer would love to be part of it. It’s very gruelling; seven days a week and no days off but so rewarding as you see your partner improve each week. All the dancers on the show are so professional – it’s great if you get someone easy to teach but once you have your pairing your whole commitment is to your partner and making them look as good as they can. You become their friend, partner, teacher and choreographer but the show is never about me – it’s all about my partner.

You have chosen to include students from local dance schools on your tour; why did you decide to share the spotlight with young dancers?

I love to include young dancers – I love seeing them on stage. It’s really not the logistical nightmare it seems – they are very well prepared. They love it and so do I.

What can fans expect from your show?

The best part of touring is performing live in front of an audience – it’s a special bond you don’t get on TV. It’s always an energy exchange and if you do it well the audience reaction is the best feeling ever. This is a brand new show – completely different to anything I have done before.

There will be live music, audience participation, lots of banter and it’s a real family affair; people of all ages are welcome as there are so many different styles of dance.

What do you like doing on days off and what’s next after the tour?

I like to get outdoors and do some cycling, skiing, and hanging out with friends – all the usual things. After this tour I am looking forward to a holiday before Strictly starts all over again next season.

• Pasha’s show ‘Let’s Dance the Night Away’ is at the Core Theatre, Corby on Sunday 19 March at 7.30pm. Book tickets on 01536 470470 www.thecorecorby.com

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