ESP January 2017

JANUARY 2017 Issue 209

R SINCE 1998

Bringing you the best of local Leisure & Lifestyle in Greater Peterborough for 18 years!

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Tickets to see the Posh and the latest movies at Showcase Cinema Make the most of January…

What’s On Things to do on a budget Dining out deals Movies Gigs

Katie Melua Interview

Time For A Change

12 page supplement to help you make the most of 2017

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ESP is a totally independent publication, not linked in any way to any other Peterborough publications. ESP is written, researched, designed and published by ESP Magazine Ltd. The views expressed in this magazine are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. All design and artwork is the copyright of its respective owner. Reproduction of any part of this publication is strictly prohibited unless prior written consent is given by the publishers.

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ESP CAR GETS PIMPED

We’re busy every month covering stories and visiting local businesses so give us a wave if you see us out an about on the road. You can’t miss us in the ESP car which stands out a treat with its new logos beautifully applied by Peterborough Engraving and City Signs who always do us a great job.

We’re celebrating 18 years of keeping you posted on all the good stuff happening across Greater Peterborough. We’re always keen to hear your news and you can contact us on office@espmag.co.uk or through our Facebook and Twitter so get in touch and make sure you like our page and follow us so you don’t miss a thing. Check out our website inbetween issues as well as our social media for all the latest on www.espmag.co.uk as there’s always more news from ESP every week.

GREAT EASTERN RUN The Perkins Great Eastern Run was another huge success in 2016 and is on course for more success on October 8, 2017 as more than 500 have already pre registered for the half marathon.

Entries open in February but in the meantime you can register your interest on the website and they’ll email details once the race is open. www.perkinsgreateastern run.co.uk

SPORTS STARS GET FREEDOM OF THE CITY Three local Olympic and Paralympic heroes have been given the city's highest honour.

Gymnast Louis Smith MBE who added a silver medal in the pommel horse event in Rio to his already impressive Olympic medal haul, gold medal winning Paralympic rower James Fox and wheelchair basketball star Lee Manning who won bronze in Rio

have been given the Freedom of the City.

Councillor Peter Hiller, cabinet member for growth, planning and housing development as well as chair of the honours selection panel, said: "The Freedom of the City is the highest honour the council can award and fitting recognition following the achievements of our local sporting heroes."

We’ll have more on our local heroes in the next issue of ESP Magazine.

NEW TATTOO REMOVAL @ MBE Need a visit to Tattoo Fixers?

Well local skin specialists My Body Essentials can now help.

MBE are growing their treatment portfolio and now offer tattoo removal treatments.

With the introduction of their brand new medical grade laser machine they have many more varied solutions to your skin issues. As they move into their seventh year in the business of improving skin they’ve helped well over 2000 clients to a happy healthier skin, tackling conditions such as acne, rosacea and redness, reducing stretchmarks and scarring to removing unwanted hair, pigmentation, skin tags and many other blemishes. Now the regrettable tattoo that you wish you never had can also be a distant memory. So time to lose that love heart with your ex’s name in! Give My Body Essentials a call on 01733 234251 or take a look at www.mybodyessentials.co.uk for more info.

HARRODS HELPS NSPCC Iconic London department store Harrods donated a special delivery to support children at the NSPCC’s centre in Peterborough The centre, which helps children who’ve experienced abuse to rebuild their lives, was given 12 of the store’s signature Christmas teddy bears called Hugh.

Last year more than 260 children and adults were given help at the centre based in the city’s Flag Business Exchange.

Harrods has been a corporate partner of the NSPCC since March 2015.

Tahira Rauf, NSPCC’s Peterborough Service Manager, said: “Toys and playing are a really important part of our work.

Children use toys to act out experiences they have had so they can work through their emotions safely. Hugh will be incredibly beneficial for this reason. “These lovely teddy bears will make a big difference to the youngest children that come here.

They will offer children a source of love and cuddles throughout their journey with us and they will continue to provide them with comfort once they’ve left our care.�

THOUSANDS RAISED FOR NSPCC

The city’s business community celebrated 20 years of fundraising for the NSPCC in true glitz and glamour – and by further boosting the children’s charity coffers.

Organisers of the NSPCC Business Support Group’s Anniversary Gala Dinner expect the event to have raised around £5,000 to help and support vulnerable children and young people locally.

Some 190 attended the black tie event at the Holiday Inn West, which welcomed former Olympic athlete and TV personality Kriss Akabusi MBE as its special guest. The event was hosted by Heart FM’s Breakfast Show Host, Kev Lawrence.

The group, made up of members of the local business community, has raised £800,000 since it began – with all money raised being used to support vulnerable children and young people in and around the Peterborough area.

DRAGON BOATS RETURN The date for this year’s Dragon Boat Festival has been revealed.

The Ploughman

Get Saturday June 10 in your diary for the event at Peterborough Rowing Lake and start thinking about entering.

Plans are already in place for the return of this popular annual event and organisers Gable Events are looking for teams to take part.

It’s great fun and if you haven’t taken part before maybe 2017 is your year. No previous experience required, just plenty of team spirit!

Gable Events have once again joined with Festival charity, Sue Ryder-Thorpe Hall Hospice, to bring you the 19th Peterborough Charity Dragon Boat Festival. The Festival is open to everyone and up to 52 crews are expected to battle it out over the 200m race course, watched by several thousand spectators. You can find out more on www.dragonboatfestivals.co.uk/ peterborough

PERKINS SUPPORTS CATHEDRAL

For more info about the Peterborough 900 Corporate Partner scheme please contact Rachael Clarke on 01733 355366, email campaign@peterboroughcathedral.org.uk or visit www.peterborough900.org.uk.

Staniland Way, Werrington Tel: 01733 327696

ESP READER SKI OFFER

If you’re planning a skiing holiday you might want to brush up on your skills. Tallington Lakes are offering 20% off their private lessons for skiing and snowboarding in January when you mention ESP when you book on 01778 347000.

TURN YOUR CARDS INTO TREES The Peterborough based global business, Perkins, has become the Peterborough 900 Campaign’s 100th Corporate Partner.

The Campaign is raising funds for developments at Peterborough Cathedral in the years leading up to its 900th anniversary in 2018. These include installing a more welcoming and level access to the main entrance of the Cathedral, opening a new Visitor and Learning Centre and creating new opportunities for young musicians, as well as building an endowment fund to help maintain the Cathedral for future generations.

Annette Ward, Corporate and Marketing Communications Manager of Perkins said: “We hope that by becoming the 100th corporate partner it will encourage more local businesses to pledge their support for a campaign which is already providing impressive new facilities for education and music and for those visiting this tremendous city.”

• CAMRA Pub of the Year 2011 • CAMRA pub of the year 2014 * • Sky Sports showing all major premiership/championship games • Live entertainment – see ESP Gig Guide • Karaoke every Sunday with Mighty Mouth Trev • Join our Facebook group The Ploughman

Now the festivities are over don’t forget to kick the year off green style and recyle those Christmas cards.

The national eco accreditation scheme for organisations, Investors in the Environment (iiE), is repeating its annual campaign to encourage members of the public and businesses to join forces to help collect and recycle their Christmas cards. iiE encourages its member businesses and the wider public to collate their cards, before taking them to Marks and Spencer. For every 1,000 Christmas cards recycled through Marks and Spencer the Woodland Trust will plant one tree.

To find out further details or to become a member, visit the website at www.iie.uk.com. Plus join in the conversation on Twitter @iiEUK. www.espmag.co.uk

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Cask Mark Accredited, Guiness Accredited and 5* hygiene rated. It is also the home of the Soul Lounge on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of every month.

January Gigs 7th

The Soul Lounge with Skip Stuart and friends 14th Park Lane 21st Motown from the Soul Lounge 28th Pure Klass Karaoke with Paul Hebden

THE THREE HORSESHOES 74 Church Street, Werrington, Peterborough PE4 6QE 01733 571768 Opening times: Mon-Thurs 11-11 / Fri-Sat 11-12 / Sunday 12-11

FOOD SERVED DAILY

Sunday carvery – all welcome Beef, pork, turkey and local veg

from only

• Real ales • Live music • Good food • Function room hire • Wedding parties • Membership available • Salsa every wednesday night

£4.95

New Years Eve Dizzy Miss Lizzy’s, a Disco and Buffet - £20 per ticket Fri 13th Jan

Karaoke

Sat 14th Jan Black Elvis

7 Burghley Road, Peterborough PE1 2QA Tel: 01733 896989 www.theburghleyclub.co.uk

LocalEntertainment

Romeo and Juliet Everyone knows the tragic love story of Romeo and Juliet and dance fans in the city get the chance to see a wonderful new version at the Key Theatre this month.

Ballet Theatre UK bring a passionate and innovative recreation of the world’s greatest tale of star-crossed lovers to the Peterborough stage on Saturday January 28.

Complete with stunning costumes and innovative stage sets this critically acclaimed performance will transport you to Renaissance Verona where the tragic tale unfolds.

Tickets are £18.50 full price and £13 for under 16's on 01733 207239.

The Revellers are Back in Town!

After their successful performances of Bonnie and Clyde the musical at Stamford's Corn Exchange Theatre the Peterborough Revellers are returning to the city for their next show.

This time they’re bringing us a comedy called Phoenix Tours, which, as the title implies could be a bus trip which ends with disastrous consequences. It’s set in the middle of nowhere, in the foothills of the Welsh mountains.

The play, written by local playwrights Clive and Sue Read, will be performed 'in the round' (the stage is in the middle of the floor area with seats all around) at the Indoor Bowls Club in Burton Street. Clive Read, who will also be directing, says – "We are always trying to come up with something different, as is the bowls club venue which we use for most of our 'smaller' productions. Since we performed our first production in its hundred seats capacity Leisure Suite we’ve built up a regular following.”

The show is a Supper Theatre event with fish and chips served in the interval.

Catch this new comedy from Wednesday January 18 to Saturday January 21 at 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £12.50 each, which includes the fish and chip supper. Call 01778 349534 to book.

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Swinging at the Cotton Club

Time to jump and jive and get the party started 1920’s style at the Key Theatre as we’re set to be transported to the Cotton Club.

Take a step back in time to New York City for an action-packed show celebrating the music and dance of Harlem’s hottest nightspot.

The Cotton Club saw performances by legendary artists such as Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, Cab Calloway, Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald and Fats Waller. And dancers such as Bojangles Robinson and the Nicholas Brothers lit-up the stage with their breathtaking routines.

The atmosphere of this wonderful era is recreated by the fabulous Lindy Hop Dance Company and The Harry Strutters Hot Rhythm Orchestra. Described as ‘A positive pleasure to behold’ by The Guardian, don’t miss it on Friday February 3.

Tickets are £21 from the box office on 01733 207239.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Sad that the festivities are over? You can still enjoy a taste of panto magic, oh yes you can! Polka Dot Pantomimes return to Stamford with a witty, sparkly and fabulous pantomime for you, bringing Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs to the Arts Centre! This family classic is suitable for all the family of course with plenty of fun and runs from January 6 – 9.

Tickets are £13 (£12) £42 for a family of four. Book now on 01780 763203.

Mark Grist & Tim Clare 'No More Games' The world is in peril. Mark Grist and Tim Clare are dead serious about saving it – or at least describing its demise with a really clever metaphor. With poems about pugs, parenthood and poems written live for the audience; the gloves are off, evildoers. No more games.

Supported by Stamford Poet Laureate Camilla McLean, this show will be a force to be reckoned with and not one to miss!

Catch it at Stamford Arts Centre on Thursday January 26. Tickets are £10 (£8) and £5 students/groups.

Book now on 01780 763203.

Meet the Stoats of Stoat Hall!

Join Eastern Angles for a Tudor-tastic Christmas romp as we meet Sir Roger De Polfrey, once the reputable Duke of Suffolk, and owner of Stoat Hall. Allergic to responsibility, he tries to live a simple life with his eccentric wife Aveline and his three desperate daughters Isobel, Hedwig and Rosamund.

But, with his humble abode falling into disrepair, and the house lying on a busy pilgrimage route, Sir Roger has his work cut out. To make matters worse, the Secret Order of the Stoats have hatched a scurrilous plan and Henry VIII and his entourage have just announced a surprise visit! On the other hand, could this be an opportunity to marry off one of his daughters to the noble King…?

From the team that brought you The Haunted Commode and The Mystery of St Finnigan's Elbow, prepare for another spoof-tastic treat. Expect ruffs, ruffians, furry mammals and laughs galore!

It’s running at the Key Theatre from January 24 – 28. Book now on 01733 207239.

Limehouse Lizzy The boys are back in town at Stamford Corn Exchange on Saturday January 7! The popularity of Thin Lizzy never seems to fade so it’s no surprise top tribute act Limehouse Lizzy are so busy. They were accredited for their live shows by the Performing Rights Society in 2011 and are renowned for staging an action-packed pyrotechnic-fuelled explosion of a show. They’ve been successfully celebrating all the hits of Celtic rock icon Philip Lynott and his band Thin Lizzy for years and have now also added an additional tribute to ex-Thin Lizzy guitarist (and world renowned solo artist) Gary Moore who sadly passed away in 2011.

Tickets are £16.50 on 01780 766455.

Peterborough Arts Cinema The city’s independent cinema housed in the John Clare Theatre at the Central Library celebrates its 70th anniversary this year!

Forbidden Nights Things heat up this winter with the arrival of the new all-male variety show Forbidden Nights – the guys who raised temperatures on Britain’s Got Talent!

Expect full theatre production and explosive choreography from these skilled and professionally trained performers, who can sing and dance and are very easy on the eye!

Featuring a vocalist, aerial artist, pole performer and fire act, all delivered with an element of naughtiness but not so naughty that you can’t bring your Granny. Think Cirque de Soleil meets Magic Mike!

See them live at Stamford Corn Exchange on Friday January 13. Tickets are £18 on 01780 766455.

I, Daniel Blake – Thursday January 5 Director Ken Loach brings us the story of Daniel Blake (59) who’s worked as a joiner most of his life in Newcastle. Now, for the first time ever, he needs help from the State. He crosses paths with a single mother Katie and her two young children, Daisy and Dylan. Katie's only chance to escape a oneroomed homeless hostel in London has been to accept a flat in a city she doesn't know, some 300 miles away. Daniel and Katie find themselves in no-man's land, caught on the barbed wire of welfare bureaucracy as played out against the rhetoric of 'striver and skiver' in modern day Britain.

Julieta (Spain) – Thursday January 12 Director Pedro Almodovar brings us a stylish melodrama.

After a chance meeting, middle-aged Julieta (Emma Suarez) learns that her long-lost daughter has resurfaced in Madrid. This begins a painful reflection by Julieta into her chequered past, flashing back to the moments of pain that defined her current life.

Barry Steele and Friends – the Orbison Story There are some great tribute shows coming to Peterborough and one to look out for next month if you’re a fan of The Big O is coming to the Cresset on Friday February 10.

Barry Steele, a top tribute to Roy Orbison takes you on this specially revamped musical journey in time from the early years right through to the late 80’s and also includes a special tribute to the time Roy spent with The Traveling Wilburys and Bono. Add to the mix some fabulous friends celebrating and performing the music of the stars who really did tour and perform with Roy, and you have yourself an incredible fusion of 60's Solid Gold Classics and contemporary musical genius all on one stage.

Tickets are £21 on 01733 265705.

T-Rex Tribute Show

Aloys (Swiss) – Thursday January 19 A lonely private investigator is contacted by a mysterious woman who pulls him into a mind game known as 'telephone walking'. Fascinated by her voice, Aloys discovers an imaginary universe that allows him to break out of his isolation. An original thriller from director Tobias Nolle.

We love to boogie on a Saturday night! It’s hard to believe it’s 40 years since flamboyant glam rock star Marc Bolan passed away, but his music is just as popular.

Top tribute act T.Rextasy have become widely accepted as the world’s only official tribute show dedicated to Marc Bolan & T.Rex, and the only band endorsed and approved by Marc’s family, estate and catalogue management, not to mention original members of T.Rex. If you love to hear hits like 20th Century Boy and Get it On and see them faithfully recreated on stage, don’t miss this 40th Anniversary Celebration Concert at Stamford Corn Exchange on Saturday January 21.

If you would like to know exactly what a Marc Bolan concert was like in the 1970s, this show is for you!

Tickets are £19.50 on 01780 766455.

Notes on Blindness – Thursday January 26 In the summer of 1983, just days before the birth of his first son, writer and theologian John Hull went blind. In order to make sense of the upheaval in his life, he began keeping a diary on audio cassette. Upon their publication in 1990, Oliver Sacks described the work as 'the most extraordinary, precise, deep and beautiful account of blindness I have ever read. It is to my mind a masterpiece.' With exclusive access to these original recordings, this film encompasses dreams, memory and imaginative life, excavating the interior world of blindness. Directed by Peter Middleton.

Sinatra, Sequins & Swing One to look forward to next month is a taste of 50s Hollywood glamour which swings into town on Sunday February 26.

The UK’s only touring Sinatra show to be endorsed by the President of Sinatra Music Society visits Stamford Corn Exchange for a special matinee

The Peterborough Film Society screens recently released films from the UK and around the world.

Many of their presentations will have had a limited initial release so you get a chance to catch great films on the big screen that won't have been shown in multiplex cinemas, followed by a natter about them over a pint at The Ostrich pub afterwards.

There’ll be some special events on the way to celebrate the anniversary but for now there’s another diverse series of films lined up this month to keep film fans happy.

show at 3pm as part of its 2017 concert tour. Previously a sellout at several UK theatres, the show sees two of the UK’s most talented vintage-style vocalists accompanied by the Capitol Big Swing Band for the fabulous swing concert, Sinatra, Sequins & Swing (The Capitol Years Live!).

The show focuses on Sinatra’s golden years at Capitol Records and also recreates famous scenes from his TV and film appearances during that time including One For My Baby and the Lady Is A Tramp.

Tickets are £19 (£10) available now on 01780 766455.

The Idol – Thursday February 2 Gaza. Synonymous to so many with conflict, destruction and despair but to Mohammed Assaf, and his sister Nour, Gaza is their home and their playground. It's where they, along with their best friends Ahmad and Omar, play music, football and dare to dream big. Their band might play on second hand, beaten up instruments but their ambitions are sky-high. For Mohammed and Nour, nothing less than playing the world famous Cairo Opera Hall will do. It might take them a lifetime to get there but, as Mohammed will find out, some dreams are worth living for. www.peterboroughartscinema.co.uk www.espmag.co.uk

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Photos: Chris Brudenell

LocalEvents

Festival Time

with Straw Bear

Get ready to follow the bear and enjoy a cracking atmosphere as Whittlesey comes alive for the annual Straw Bear Festival.

On what’s usually a chilly January weekend (yes, wrap up folks!) the crowds brave the cold for a fun and quirky day out that’s a really social affair.

It’s become a huge winter party with the streets and pubs packed to bursting and Molly and Morris dancers springing up in beer gardens and in the streets around the town centre.

It’s always busy at this annual event but this year there are more dance teams taking part and they’re expecting even more people to join in the fun.

It all stems from an old custom linked to the harvest and was revived in 1980 by the Whittlesea Society and has since grown and grown in popularity.

This year’s festival is on January 13, 14 and 15 and kicks off with the Friday night concert at the Ivy Leaf Club (tickets £10) with the main parade on Saturday when the straw ‘bear’ tours the town centre accompanied by dancers and music.

There’ll be music and poetry sessions in the Town Hall and story tellers in the Methodist church all followed by a big barn dance at Sir Harry Smith Community College in the evening (tickets £12).

On the Sunday it’s the bear burning from 12 noon till 2.30pm at the College – don’t worry no bears or people are in danger at this one!

Some roads will be closed so hop on the park and ride. To find out more visit www.strawbear.org.uk

Feel like going to the dogs… for charity?!

Peterborough Greyhound Stadium gave the dogs some time off in September and set the ‘human hounds’ to the track in a great fundraising challenge and now it’s back to raise even more cash for charity.

The Human Hound Challenge raised over £2,000 which was divided between several local charities and they’re hoping this month’s races will raise even more.

So if you’re looking for ways to raise funds for your favourite charity, school or club this is a fun way to do it.

All you have to do is enter a hound into one (or more!) of the heats and you'll gain £50 straight away! Win the Final on Friday January 27 and you'll be running away with £500!

Join the Human Hound Charity

Challenge

Friday January 6 - Human Hound Challenge Heat One Friday January 13 - Human Hound Challenge Heat Two Friday January 20 - Human Hound Challenge Heat Three Friday January 27 - Human Hound Challenge Grand Final If you’d like to put your two legs to the test just give Hannah a call on 01733 296939 for further information and to enter your hound!

Steam Time @ NVR If you’re looking to get out of the house this month why not take to the tracks and enjoy a steam train ride at Nene Valley Railway.

They’re running steam services to welcome in the New Year and if it’s frosty it’s especially scenic but it’s always fun to enjoy a gentle steam train ride through the countryside.

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There will be steam services on January 1 and 2 and January 8 and 9 departing from the Wansford Station at 10am, 11.45am and 2pm.

Alternatively you can hop aboard their Railcar and travel in Swedish style on January 15, 22 and 29.

Call 01780 784444 for more details or visit www.nvr.org.uk.

New Gallery Exhibition – Concrete Soul

Stuart Payn

If you’ve not visited Peterborough’s City Gallery before, maybe January is an ideal time to take a look.

Housed within the Museum in Priestgate it has a variety of artworks to view as well as a changing programme of exhibitions.

This month sees the opening of Concrete Soul by local artist Stuart Payn, who works under the artistic pseudonym Process Smith, which runs from January 13 to February 25.

Stuart’s had a lifelong interaction with the urban environment as both a skateboarder and street artist. Inspired by the materials that make up these spaces he’s created a remarkable collection of work that will appeal to all ages and backgrounds.

Stuart originally trained as an animator and has been a graffiti and street artist for many years. You’ve most likely seen some of his work in the Cowgate underpass which he was commissioned to transform.

The exhibition centres around his relationship with concrete, which as a skateboarder and graffiti artist Stuart says is an intimate one – “In the urban environment concrete is ubiquitous. But as an avid skateboarder my involvement with this material was very physical too – falling off my board and rubbing my elbows across it! However, I’m not restricting myself to concrete; there will be other materials including metal, wood and plastic.”

This new exhibition will replace the Wish You Were Here exhibition celebrating 175 years of local holiday firm Thomas Cook and how the company came to shape the evolution of ‘the tourist’ over nearly 200 years. You can still catch this one up until January 8 and the exhibiitons are free to view.

Find out more on www.vivacitypeterborough.com

1) Louis Smith won what medal in the men's pommel horse for Team GB in the Olympics?

2) A complete Bronze Age wheel believed to be the largest and earliest of its kind was unearthed near Flag Fen. It was regularly referred to as Britain’s what?

Due to the positive feedback, I’ve decided to provide you with another brainteaser. So, gather your colleagues, family and friends and give this Quiz of the Year a go as we reflect back on 2016 – covering all things local. Remember, the loser makes the teas/coffees for the rest of the day.

Mikey Clarke

4) In September, who celebrated 10 years with POSH? 5) Peterborough’s home grown star Luke Pasqualino returned to our television screens for the third and final series of what show?

6) The Peterborough Operatic & Dramatic Society performed songs

7) July saw more than 240 people (including chief executive of Peterborough City Council Gillian Beasley and POSH mascot Peter Burrow) abseil down which building?

8) Which celebrity launched July’s Burghley Film Festival – and also starred in a film being shown?

9) The hilarious Bill Bailey brought his tour to Peterborough Arena.

What was it called?

10) December’s edition of ESP saw the Magazine celebrating how many years of being in print in and around Peterborough?

Answers: 1) Silver. 2) Pompeii. 3) YMCA (Cambridgeshire and Peterborough). 4) Darragh MacAnthony (club chairman and owner). 5) The Musketeers. 6) Hairspray. 7) The Peterborough Cathedral. 8) Warwick Davis. 9) Limboland. 10) 18.

I’d like to thank those who commented on the Christmas Quiz I put into last month’s ESP Magazine. It’s nice to know that for just a few moments I was able to help you skive off work and gave you something to talk about with the family!

3) Who did Queensgate Shopping Centre take on as its new Charity of the Year for 2016-2017?

such as ‘Good Morning Baltimore’ and ‘You Can't Stop the Beat’ in which show at the Cresset?

Photos: Chris Brudenell and Emma Bothamley

One of the city’s gems for a good day out is Ferry Meadows Country Park; it’s a beautiful, calming environment and it’s family friendly. There’s so much to do, but one of the things you can enjoy here is orienteering. On the park’s website (www.neneparktrust.org.uk) you can download an orienteering map to either follow a quick route or a full length route depending on how much time you have. This experience is completely free of charge. There are wheelchair friendly routes, activity programmes, the Lakeside Kitchen and Bar, cafés and picnic benches that are perfect for a quick stop off. The good thing about Ferry Meadows is that it’s open all year round – so wrap up, get your walking boots on and get out of the house!

THINGS

TO DO ON

A BUDGET

THIS JANUARY

Mama Liz’s, Stamford

And now for something a bit different. For those with an interest in history, a Crime and Punishment Walk takes place on the third Friday of every month from Peterborough Museum. Within the walk, you can follow a Victorian policeman around the city centre, whilst hearing of tales from the city’s grim past. You’ll find out where the city’s gaols were and what the conditions were like, learn where public hangings and floggings happened. The walk begins outside the Museum, in Priestgate and costs just £5 per adult and £3 per child. The first walk in the New Year will be Thursday January 19 at 5.29pm. So go on, get learning! www.vivacity-peterborough.com/heritage/ walks-talks/evening-tours

By Devon Moore-Watson, Maddie Callaghan and Annika Loebig.

January blues.

Christmas has gone, New Year’s Eve has passed and we’re running low on money. Those first few months of the New Year can be a struggle for us all and it can be hard to find something fun to do whilst on a budget. So here are a few ideas to ensure that you start off the year in the cheapest, but best way possible.

And don’t worry, there’s something for everyone...

10 www.espmag.co.uk

For people with a hidden talent or a passion for singing, poetry or comedy, an open mic night could be the right way to spend an evening. Peterborough’s Met Lounge, in Bridge Street, holds an open mic night every Wednesday from 7.30pm to 11.45pm. This can be a great night whether you’re just watching or if you're taking part. Anyone can perform throughout the night and entry’s free. They welcome many different mediums, from acoustic/electro acoustics, poetry, electronica, synth, rock, punk, metal, folk, and finally, comedy. And as an added bonus, every performer that takes part gets a free drink!

For more local open mic nights read Keith Dalton’s feature in our Live Music section on page 48.

“

These are just a few suggestions of things to do in Peterborough – believe us, there’s plenty more, even if you’re on a budget. So get up from wherever you are and go explore the city.

Take a Tour of the Cathedral Pop into Peterborough Cathedral’s new Visitor Centre, admission’s free, and learn more about its history through interactive displays. View images from the Cathedral at Night photography competition and vote for your favourite (ends January 6) or why not make like a tourist and book a guided tour of the Cathedral (tickets £8) to really take a closer look at this amazing building you’ve walked past so often when you’re shopping.

If you enjoy poetry and literature, the John Clare Cottage is perhaps the place for you.

John Clare is regarded as one of the greatest English poets in history. The thatched roof matched with the beautiful gardens is quintessentially British. They often have other events going on, such as art exhibitions and acoustic open mic sessions; the next one is on January 26.

There is a café available too, which is fabulous news to us foodies – even better it’s all homemade. The Cottage and Café is open throughout the winter Friday, Saturday and Monday 11am to 3pm, last entry to the Cottage is at 2pm so go grab yourself a cup of tea and a scone and truly embrace those much desired British qualities, you really can’t be more British than tea and scones!

Cycle the Green Wheel

Another way to break free from the sofa is a cycle ride and Peterborough has a fantastic network of routes on the Green Wheel so you can go on any length trip and maybe find a pub to stop off at midway. Even if it’s just a few miles you’ll feel better with some fresh air. www.pect.org.uk/working-with-us/local-communities/green-wheel

Walk Barnwell Park Barnwell Country Park near Oundle is open all day, every day of the year and admission’s free. The Visitors Centre is open from 10am to 4pm every day, here you will find information, table top games and fun educational activities.

There are paths and trails, bird hides and an adventure playground for the kids. Parking is £2.70.

www.clarecottage.org.

Get Arty @City Gallery Why not check out some of the great artworks on display in a rolling programme in the City Gallery inside Peterborough Museum on Priestgate? It’s free admission and just 5 minutes walk from Peterborough bus station and Peterborough train station.

New exhibition Concrete Soul by Process Smith (who worked on the Cowgate underpass artworks) opens on January 13 showcasing his different techniques. Pop in for a cuppa in Squires café while you’re there.

Peterborough Arts Cinema Cinema trips have been a common day out for young people since the 1890s – although back then it was called ‘the pictures’. The Showcase Cinema, is close to the city centre and accessible by bus stops located outside the cinema. It’s recently been refurbished with new reclining seating and rebranded as a Cinema de Lux with 13 screens, providing 4K showings and 3D showings as well, to give people the best experience.

In the city centre, there’s also the Peterborough Arts Cinema – an independent cinema at the John Clare Theatre within the Central Library run by a committed group of volunteers on a nonprofit making basis. It screens recently released films from the UK and around the world. Many of their presentations will have had a limited initial release and therefore they offer the opportunity to see great films on the big screen that won’t have been shown in multiplex cinemas.

Tickets are just £6 (£4 if you’re a member). www.peterboroughartscinema.co.uk

Free Poetry and Music @ Stamford Arts The Arts Centre in Stamford always has a packed programme but there’s plenty of free stuff to enjoy too, and January’s a great time to try something different.

There’s a Poetry Swaps event on Wednesday January 11 at 8pm in the Cellar Bar that’s free and their free Pint of Poetry night in the Cellar Bar is on Wednesday January 25 at 8pm.

If music’s more your thing try Stamford Arts Centre Introduces on Friday January 20 at 8pm in the Cellar Bar, also free entry, which is an evening of live music from some of the best local musical talent!

There’s also a Song Writing-Lyric Writing course for young people 12-25 years old that’s free on Tuesday January 24 at 4.30pm.

Walk Burghley Park It might be gloomy but we all need some fresh air so stretch your legs around the stunning parkland in the grounds of Burghley House in Stamford. It’s open every day, there’s free parking and you can take the dog along on a lead for a wander with the fabulous Elizabethan house as a backdrop. The Orangery reopens on January 18, and is then open Wednesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm serving brunch, lunch and afternoon tea. www.burghley.co.uk www.espmag.co.uk

11

LocalEvents

SOME OF THE FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS Friday January 27 and Saturday January 28

Guided Tour of Peterborough Cathedral A fascinating historical tour of the Cathedral interior, with a particular focus on the Tudor period. Starts at 2pm.

Tickets: £8 per person (£6 concessions). Book online www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk or at the Information Centre, Bridge Street, Peterborough (01733 452336).

Friday January 27

Popular Tudor Festival Returns The annual Katharine of Aragon Festival is back this month aiming to bring to life the story of Katharine and her links to the city.

It’s always a great opportunity to immerse yourself in tours, talks and events. If you’re interested in history this is an ideal opportunity to find out more with Peterborough Cathedral and Vivacity’s Peterborough Museum staging plenty of themed activities for all the family from January 26 – 29.

This popular annual festival on a Tudor theme marks the date in January 1536 when King Henry VIII’s first wife was buried at Peterborough Abbey (now the Cathedral), where she still rests to this day.

This year’s event includes a lecture by historian and broadcaster Dr Suzannah Lipscomb entitled Character and Conscience: A Dynasty of Catholic Queens.

It’s a great chance to brush up on your history and there’s plenty for families to enjoy too, with drop-in craft making and living history events both at the Museum and at the Cathedral Visitor Centre throughout the weekend.

Look out for ‘King Henry and Queen Katharine’ holding court in the Knights’ Chamber and the barber surgeon at the Museum!

The recently opened Knights’ Chamber is also the venue for a Tudor-style Pottage and Ale Supper prior to Dr Lipscomb’s talk, complete with Tudor musicians and stewards in period costume.

Meanwhile the Museum will have just opened its doors to the Tremendous Tudors exhibition. This is an opportunity to discover not only a whole host of stories from Tudor Peterborough but also a rare glimpse at some unique, seldom displayed objects such as the Peterborough Book of Hours – a 500 year old illuminated Tudor manuscript in immaculate condition which is usually kept locked away to protect it from light damage. The exhibition runs from January 21 to April 2.

Festival Lecture by Dr Suzannah Lipscomb Character and Conscience: a Dynasty of Catholic Queens.

Popular historian, author and broadcaster Dr Suzannah Lipscomb will reevaluate Katharine as a spirited woman of integrity and faith, and examine her story in the context of her mother, Isabella I of Spain, and her daughter, Mary I of England. Starts at 7.30pm.

Tickets: £11 per person (£5.50 under 18s) including wine or a soft drink afterwards.

Unreserved seating. www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk Saturday January 28 and Sunday January 29

At Home with the Tudors at Peterborough Museum Travel back in time to the 1500s, with a chance to meet Tudor characters such as the Barber Surgeon, a Tudor lady and a soldier. Also, take part in family activities and crafts on a Tudor theme.

This is a drop-in event from 10am–5pm, so there's no need to pre-book. Last entry is at 4pm.

Admission: £4 adults, £3 concessions, £12 families, under 5s FREE. Call 01733 864663 or visit www.vivacitypeterborough.com.

A Royal Audience and ‘Monarch Makes’ in the Knights' Chamber Family activities in the Cathedral’s Knights' Chamber. Meet Henry VIII and Queen Katharine of Aragon in the Knights’ Chamber and have fun making crafts to take home.

Royal Audience times: 10.30am, 12 noon, 1.30pm, 3pm. Crafts: 10.30am -3.30pm.

Admission: £3 per child. Drop-in, no need to book.

Katharine and her Ambassadors A talk by historian and author Lauren Mackay, at Peterborough Museum.

Katharine of Aragon’s relationships with her ambassadors, recorded in their numerous reports, reveal the true Katharine – her wit, vulnerability, and passionate nature.

Her book will be available for purchase after the talk which starts at 7.30pm.

Tickets: £6, £4 concessions, including light refreshments and a chance to explore the Tremendous Tudors exhibition. Booking recommended. Call 01733 864663 or visit www.vivacity-peterborough.com.

Tudor Peterborough Walk Explore Peterborough’s historic city centre with a costumed guide and find out what the city was like during the time of Katharine of Aragon. The tour starts at Peterborough Museum then enters Peterborough Cathedral where you’ll hear about the funeral of Katharine of Aragon and other stories from its Tudor history. The tour starts at 2pm.

Tickets: £6 (£4 children). To book call Peterborough Museum on 01733 864663, or visit www.vivacitypeterborough.com.

January 21 to April 2

Exhibition: Tremendous Tudors Throughout the festival weekend an exhibition exploring Tudor life with local stories will be on show at Peterborough Museum. Discover a host of stories from Tudor Peterborough and get a rare glimpse at some unique, seldom displayed objects such as the Peterborough Book of Hours. This 500 year old illuminated Tudor manuscript is usually locked away to protect it.

Opening times are Tuesday to Sunday, 10am – 5pm. Admission free, except on special event days. For more info visit www.vivacitypeterborough.com

Is your car ready for winter?

Free winter health check!

MOTs £40 PLUS a chance to win £500 cash prize, with £500 also going to FRM’s Charity, in our big prize draw.

Be prepared for winter and book in for a FREE basic winter health check on your vehicle. More detailed check available for £20 – includes tyre pressure and tread depth check, coolant check, battery check and a winter driving pack including anti freeze, ice scraper and screen wash.

Be winter wise and make sure your car is fit and healthy to take on the worst of the weather…

GET A CLEAR VIEW...

BRAKES...

GET A GRIP…

You can't avoid danger if you don't see it coming. Play it safe. Be ready for any weather, any time with proper wiper blade maintenance.

Wet roads increase braking distance, giving you less time to react to danger on the road.

Make sure yours don’t let you down.

Check your tyres to make sure you have the correct tread for the weather conditions and plenty of grip.

The legal requirement for minimum tread depth on your tyres is 1.6milimetres, across the central 3/4 of the tyre around the complete circumference of the tyre. For safety – replace your tyres before the legal limit is reached.

• Chattering or streaking wipers indicate that replacement is necessary • Always replace wipers in pairs • Replace wipers at least every six months or as needed Don't forget the rear wiper! Rear wipers can deteriorate just as quickly and are just as important.

The components of hydraulic braking systems are subject to considerable stress and as a result require frequent inspection and routine maintenance.

It’s recommended to have your brake fluid changed every 2 years regardless of the vehicle age.

POWER ON...

The cold and wet can play havoc with your battery so make sure it won’t let you down. FRM will check your current car battery for FREE and recycle your old one. We have a large range, type, voltage and guarantees on car batteries.

AIR CONDITIONING...

Aircon isn’t just for the summer and FRM are air conditioning specialists, installing, repairing and re-charging.

Aircon systems will control the humidity and the heater if needed will control the temperature leaving you free to enjoy the warmth without being stuffy.

Moisture on the glass will be evaporated very rapidly so you can see through the windscreen and all the other glass clearly without a film of mist. Aircon systems will work long before a screen-heater has had a chance to warm up so is effective for rapid de-misting and good all round visibility.

Call Customer Services on 01733 333 838

Peterborough Body Shop Special Offer 4 alloy wheel refurb, any size (not diamond cut) £200 + VAT

FRM AUTOMOTIVE LTD Unit 11, Limesquare Business Park, Saville Road, Westwood, Peterborough, PE3 7PR

Tel: 01733 333838 www.frmautomotive.co.uk | email: info@frmautomotive.co.uk

DRIVING UP STANDARDS

pep.cipriano@espmag.co.uk

Pep Cipriano

Married Ticker Time Bomb The University of East Anglia says getting married increases the chance of surviving a heart attack by 14%.

There isn’t a survey saying being married increases the risk of having one in the first place. I’m all about prevention instead of cure.

My Starring Role in Fletton Quays

S

o, I pop along to a recent exhibition showcasing what the 2018 Fletton Quays development will look like and saw my column on one of the display boards!

There were various blown up photos illustrating how the city council will be embracing agile working practices in their new offices. But on closer inspection a photo of a messy work station included a torn-out Man About Town page pinned on the corner of a desk divider.

Naturally, I’m grateful for having one fan after 18 years of writing this page but who is she? If anyone can reveal the identity of this lady or if you’re reading this and it’s you then drop me a line and I’ll make you famous.

Another photo that caught my attention was the iconic mural that once featured on the wall of Bridge House on the Town Bridge. It was designed about 60 years ago, depicting historical figures from science and engineering such as Sir Isaac Newton and Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom and the arts.

I was pleased to learn after being stored for four years it’ll be resurrected in a prominent place in the new development. The mural is one of our city’s most recognisable points of interest and in a world where we’re pulling down representations of our history it’s good to know that Peterborough is protecting its own.

Staff will be vacating the Town Hall within the next 18 months but the civic functions within will be retained, while the rest of the building will be utilised

CIAOS OUT 14 www.espmag.co.uk

for commercial income. If that means having an office in our grandest of public buildings, then register me for interest now.

In the meantime, works to demolish part of the former Whitworth Mill building on Fletton Quays has almost been completed. The council purchased the mill site for £750,000 and the plan is to convert the listed 19th century building into a new hub for arts and culture.

As for the rest of Fletton Quays, it’ll include 280 homes and leisure and retail facilities to boot. Once finished the area will really enhance one of the gateways into our city centre and this will be complemented by a new-look Lower Bridge Street and of course an even bigger Queensgate with a cinema.

An independent university isn’t too far off either.

Now all we need is a casino please…

23 Footie Games Raises £6k for Charity!

In May last year Marco Sementa kicked off the first of a proposed several football matches in a bid to raise £1,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support. Fast forward 22 games later and he’s bagged £6,038.17. That’s £262 every 90 minutes and this is why football is a beautiful game.

More than 250 local players were involved and some even came from Australia and America to lace their boots.

The youngest player was 16 and the oldest 58. All the 11-a-side matches were played at Yaxley FC so they deserve a mention too.

Marco has always been a generous giver to charities, but in a creative manner that the whole community can embrace. His efforts have been recognised by his employers RSA who plucked him out as one of their ‘everyday heroes’ for a recent recruitment campaign they ran. It means Marco’s face is plastered all over buses, for which he is very grateful for.

“My work colleagues wanted to showcase people in the local community that do charity work and I was one of six chosen from a long list. It’s a nice way to be recognised but my work isn’t done yet! Putting on the football matches was great fun and the support from my family and friends was amazing.

“We had a different Team Sementa for each game and I’m grateful for every single person that took part. I want to stage it again this year and would like to hear from potential sponsors for footballs and anyone interested in sponsoring the pitch for a game.”

I haven’t kicked a ball since 1999, so I’ll just be handing out orange slices at half time. But if you want to get involved in Marco’s football extravaganza whether it be as a player, supporter or sponsor, email him on marco.sementa@uk.rsagroup.com or visit his Facebook page.

Tone: pizza for your birthday? Mush: it’s been a while… Graham: got that date yet?

Sue: missing WOMS? Dave @ Handmade Burger: thanks Clem: how’s the marketing going?

OF THE MONTH

WORD

MY

SALES Don’t you just love a bit of bargain hunting? Ridiculous queuing from 5am, Next sale stripped, only XXXL left, Homer Simpson ties £1.99, Queensgate car park full again, coffee shops making a killing, TK Maxx still the same price, irritating people who buy this year’s Xmas pressies now, white Toblerone out of stock and retail assistants on the verge of suicide.

All Winners in Comms Awards Happy New Year to my fellow communications professionals who attended the annual Peterborough Regional PR & Media Awards. Congratulations to the winners and those who were shortlisted.

As always it was good to pick up accolades and be recognised for my work in my day job after some 22 years in the business. But above all it felt even better to be surrounded by colleagues who effectively are responsible for shaping the positive reputations and messages from so many of

our city’s businesses and organisations.

Peterborough’s communications backdrop is in a good place with plenty of newcomers entering the field, which is helping to strike a nice balance with those who’ve earned a few stripes over the years.

There’s still a shed load of businesses out there who don’t understand the value of good communications and placing it at the heart of everything they do, so long may we continue to grow and prosper!

Young People Boxing Clever We all know sport can have a positive impact on young people's well-being, helping them to grow in confidence, work as a team and have respect for others.

Boxing training has long been associated with providing a platform for personal development for young people and I’m pleased to see a partnership with the city council and boxing trainer Kevin Sanders really take off.

A boxing academy was set up at Vic’s Gym last year and from regularly seeing 15 young people in October, there were 97 in the academy by the end of November.

A big supporter of the project is principal of Peterborough Regional College, Terry Jones, who enabled his students to attend as part of their college programme.

His and Kev’s efforts were recognised by the Mayor, who I’m told has promised to don a pair of gloves with the young people in an attempt to shake off some unwanted postChristmas timber.

There’s always a chance some of these young people could end up taking boxing seriously and one day become champion of the world. Larry Holmes is one such role model who was the fourth of 12 children raised in a family that survived on welfare.

To help support his family Holmes dropped out of school and went to work at a car wash for $1 an hour. His idol was Muhammad Ali and he got into boxing to try and be like him. His trainers told him his legs were too short and to forget ever being a champion but how wrong they were.

Holmes ended up being Ali’s sparring partner and eventually fought his friend in a fight that is still hard for Ali fans to watch today. I was lucky enough to meet Holmes at a sold-out evening with the boxing legend, organised by Kev. Next up is Roy Jones Junior in March.

For details, call Kev on 07872 601467.

Have a Spin at Vinyl Night

Miracle on Bridge Street First, we had Brexit. Then came Trump. And now Met Lounge owner Steve Jason buys a round of drinks. I’ve been in post-event shock therapy ever since.

CAUGHT

Festive overindulge IN THE ACT! nce. Kill me now. Pri the only way I’ll get nting this is my diet a*se in gea r.

Charters have been having success with their Vinyl Night, which started at the end of last year and was the brainchild of host, DJ Warren.

Basically, you bring along any size record you’d like to hear and Warren will play it for you. Simple and genius.

I’ll be taking my seven-inch single of Shaddap You Face (Joe Dolce, 1980) then.

The next night is on Sunday January 29. Admission’s free and it starts at 8pm.

Cheers To Puzzles Opening The city centre's newest bar Puzzles opens on January 12 after owners Matt and Simon spent most of the festive season knee deep in brick and cement dust.

The lads swapped Christmas shopping for bar refit shopping just so they'd be able to get it open in time for the New Year. The Bridge Street bar will nicely complement Argo Lounge, giving us another option that end of town for a tipple after work.

Interior wise Puzzles is stripped back and industrial with a casual feel and it promises to bring us something a little different with plans for music nights too. Watch this space and I'll keep you posted. www.espmag.co.uk

15

G N I D L I U B M TEA S Y A D P U O AND GR So with Christmas sadly over and most of the office parties (and hangovers) long gone, we’re all looking forward to fresh opportunities and change as we find ourselves planning ahead for the spring and summer months already.

W

hilst some of the festive antics might be best forgotten I always find that during any get-together there’s always talk of ‘we should do this more often’ and of having more group gatherings throughout the year. Well as luck might have it Tallington Lakes have just the thing, that something a little different for any group of workers, family, or friends to stick in the calendar

16 www.espmag.co.uk

and add a little adventure to a sunny weekend ahead.

There's so much to do on and off the water including climbing towers, speeding down the dry-ski slopes and jet-skiing, but they also host some great team building activities which are loads of fun, giving you all the chance to break from 'work mode' and unlike the office party there’s no hangover to follow!

It’s a perfect idea for any group day out, stag and hen parties, workplace team building days or just a funny day out with friends and family, and it won't cost a fortune either.

Craig from Tallington Lakes told me for the team building days, or even half days, they have some really fun challenges that will have you puzzling, tumbling, laughing and working together to race the clock or another team and laugh at yourselves and each other as you go for the win.

“We can tailor the day to suit all participants and needs.

Bonding as mates or work colleagues is essential in life with lots of fun included.”

I couldn’t agree more and I’ve loved all the activities I’ve tried at Tallington Lakes. Craig says they shake things up a bit and add a little playful adventure for these days though.

“You could be walking across the hills as a team on the grass skis or try laying down the stepping stone planks to get across the crocodile infested water. Be careful they don’t bite your bum!

“How about filling the water tower with water to get the crystal out of the top, but be aware of all the holes down the sides so you’ll need a good team to plug those leaks. Or what about a mind game and see if you can balance six nails on just one without touching anything else.”

As everyone knows working as a team at work is essential for personal development and for the company. Craig likes to come up with some challenges to get you and your mates pulling together.

“In one scenario you can work as a team to get the ‘radioactive bomb’ out of the danger area and move it to the safe zone without getting infected.

“We might say you’re stranded on a island and the only way off is to build a raft for the whole team to get back home.”

Everyone has a competitive side to them and is up for a good laugh, so with something like stag and hen parties it’s a great way to bet each other and have loads of fun at the same time.

Get in touch with the team at Tallington Lakes and check out what’s on offer and get booked in for a taste of adventure to look forward to in the coming months.

Photo: Andy Vernum @ Studio One

Photos: Emma Bothamley

darren.grigas@espmag.co.uk

t u O g n t e i g t d u a B E on a Food Glori us Food

The Brewery Tap – Westgate This great real ale pub is also well known for its tasty Thai food.

Sunday menu: 2 x courses for £10 Monday Noodles: A choice of noodle dishes for £6.95 Lunchtime menu: A choice of lunch menu items for £6.95 You can view all the menus on their website www.thebrewery-tap.com Tel: 01733 358500

Mama Liz’s – Stamford Mama Liz’s is known for its soul food and is offering a Holiday Meze throughout January for £20 per head for those who didn’t get their works do sorted in time!

They’ve just launched a new daytime / lunch menu called the Bar Bowls menu which represents great value at £4.95 each or three for £12.

Tel: 01780 765888

EAST

The Tobie Norris

The Ramblewood Inn

– Stamford This great Stamford pub offers a fantastic pizza deal – with your choice of two toppings, you can get one Not So Large, stonebaked KNEAD pizza and a pint of selected beer, 175ml glass of house wine or a selected soft drink from only £11.95.

Available Monday to Sunday from 12pm - 2.30pm or 6pm – 7pm.

Alternatively, evenings only 6pm – 7pm, two can dine for £24.95 on a similar pizza deal which also includes a bottle of house wine.

Register for one of their KNEAD loyalty cards and you can enjoy a bottle of house wine with any two main meals throughout January and February. www.kneadpubs.co.uk Tel: 01780 753800

– Orton Longueville

Smith's of Bourne – Bourne Smiths of Bourne, is offereing two baguettes for £10 Monday to Friday lunchtime and a similar pizza deal to the Tobie Norris is also on offer. www.kneadpubs.co.uk Tel: 01778 426819

There’s a great ESP offer at the Ramblewood Inn at Orton Hall – 50% off food when you spend £30 or more from January 3 to February 2. Get your voucher on www.espmag.co.uk/offers or email offers@espmag.co.uk and we’ll send you one.

Beijing Rendezvous – Orton Wistow All you can eat buffet: Mon – Thurs 5.30 - 10pm £9.90 pp.

Fri and Sat 5.30 - 10pm £12.90 pp.

Thurs and Fri 12.00 - 2pm £7.50 pp.

Sunday 12.00 - 8pm £9.90 pp.

Closed Tuesdays.

Tel: 01733 234450

The Ruddy Duck – Peakirk Two meals for £20 off the Double Bill Menu lunchtimes and evenings.

Tel: 01733 252426

– Town Bridge

Shalimar

If you like a genuine taste of the orient and quality cuisine East restaurant on the river is the perfect setting. It’s a great month to sample their delicious menu as they’re offering a special £10 for two courses menu Monday – Thursday throughout January. www.east-restaurant.co.uk Tel: 01733 315702

– Bourne

Lambert’s

Monday and Tuesday is banquet night.

Choose a starter, main course, side dish, rice or naan bread – £10.95 pp.

Tel: 01778 393959

– Stamford

Loch Fyne – Elton This great fish restaurant in Elton is lovely at any time of the year and is offering a set lunch menu which is two courses for £10.95 and three courses for £12.95 throughout January. It’s also worth signing up for their friends card which has additional offers attached to it.

There’s also the fantastic Mussel Madness deal every Tuesday – unlimited mussels and one drink from 6pm for just £15 per person! www.lochfyneseafoodandgrill.co.uk Tel: 01832 280298

18 www.espmag.co.uk

Sugar Mill

Tuesday to Friday from 12 noon till 2.15pm Select two courses for £13.95 or 3 courses for £15.50 off the Specials Menu Tel: 01780 767063

– Bourne

The Apple Cart

Two for one all day every day on main courses including specials. The cheaper meal is free!

Tel: 01778 424520

– Cardea

Brewers Fayre

Two for One all day every day on main courses including specials. The cheaper meal is free!

Tel: 01733 302480

– Hampton

Vesuvio

Monday to Friday 12 noon till 6pm, two meals for £10.99.

Kids can play in the play area for £3 for 90 minutes.

Kids meals from £3.99.

Tel: 01733 310772

– Whittlesey 12.00 - 2pm from the Lunchtime Special menu: 1 course + side £8.90 2 courses + side £11.90 Tel: 01733 204599

It’s likely you’ll be feeling the pinch after all the festive spending and going a bit pale when the credit card bill arrives! However, beware or those January blues are gonna get ya! You’ve been stuck in with the family for far too long and will want to break out of the house so here’s our round up of just some of the great deals available at local eateries which mean you can dine out on a (tight) budget and socialise…

Bollywood Tiger

The Farmers Carvery & Grill

Turkish Kitchen

– Yaxley

– Yaxley

– Peterborough

Wednesday Banquet – all you can eat £11.95 pp All day Sunday buffet – all you can eat from £5.95 pp.

Tel: 01733 246519

Carvery served daily from 12.00 - 2.30pm and 5pm - 9.30pm – Saturday and Sunday all day.

Small plate £7.95 / large plate £10.95.

Tel: 01733 244885

Monday to Friday 11.30am till 4pm, all meals £6.45.

Tel: 01733 555167

The Eatwell Guide

Y

ou’re probably still feeling like you’ve eaten your body weight in Celebrations and party food and are resolving to cut down the calories and live on a lettuce leaf for the next few months. A crash diet and never eating out again isn’t the answer, you just need to eat smarter.

Nothing sounds drearier than going ‘on a diet’ so what’s an easy and more successful way to eat better?

We spoke to the team at Healthy Peterborough, the local campaign to improve our overall health, about how we can easily work towards a better diet. They have a great guide to healthy eating on their website.

Whether we’re dining out or eating at home, most of us consume too much saturated fat and sugar and not enough fruit and vegetables, fibre or oily fish but eating well may be easier than you think. There are small but significant changes you can make to follow a healthier diet.

Their Eatwell Guide shows how you can achieve a healthier diet overall. It shows five main food groups to include in your diet and in what amounts to achieve a healthy balance.

The guide shows that over a third of our daily food intake should be from fruit and vegetables, aiming for at least five a day. It also shows foods and drinks

high in sugar, fat and salt which we should eat less often.

Here are a few easy ways to make a change: • Aim to drink 6-8 glasses of fluid every day – plain water, semi or skimmed-milk, one glass of fruit juice or tea and coffee all count towards your fluid intake.

• Don't skip breakfast – it gives you energy and helps reduce mid-morning snacking.

Wholegrain breakfast cereal with dried fruit served with milk or yoghurt is just one tasty start to the day.

• Review your snack choices – swap crisps for plain popcorn or chocolate for a small handful of unsalted nuts. Raw vegetable sticks with dip or whole pieces of fruit make great snack options.

Take a look at their Eatwell Guide and find even more healthy tips here: www.healthypeterborough.org.uk www.espmag.co.uk

19

KATIE MELUA We all love our summer anthems but when it comes to winter what do we have other than festive tunes?

S

inger and songwriter Katie Melua told ESP she felt the same and being a lover of the season she decided to create some beautiful music to suit the time of year with her new album In Winter.

Katie told ESP – “I was specifically missing from the mainstream music world a release for this time of year that explores winter themes in a more wellrounded way. The traditions that bind us to the sense of time and family. I wanted to discover it from a personal point of view so going back to Georgia was a big part of that. I like to spend winters with family and hear stories from my grandparents about their lives before we came along.”

The album reflects Katie’s dual culture – born in the exSoviet country of Georgia, she moved with her parents and younger brother to Belfast aged nine, and became a British citizen in 2005. Since then she’s achieved immense global success as a recording artist, selling in excess of 10 million albums.

Previously known for her hits like Nine Million Bicycles and The Closest Thing to Crazy it’s fair to say this is a bit of a departure in more ways than one, but still showcases her beautiful voice. Not just hers though, also that of the Gori Women’s Choir.

So has she enjoyed venturing into new ground rather than following a more typical 'pop star' route?

“I just don't think a typical pop star route means anything to anyone. I'd rather make music based on what's actually needed.

“I'm a firm believer that songs have the most extraordinary traits and when the quality is really magnificent it can truly affect people's lives from the inside. So I'm searching for songs of that quality.

How that search matches any typical routes is neither here nor there really.”

From the opening notes, sung in Ukrainian, it’s clear that there’s something different and unexpected about Katie Melua’s new album. Twenty-five female voices blend to create a sound

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that’s both powerful and delicate.

Known as a singer, songwriter and guitarist, with six studio albums to her name, on this album Katie also takes the role of co-producer for the first time.

The discovery in 2014 of a recording by Gori Women’s Choir was the spark for the record. “I was mesmerised by their tone and sonic richness. They are essentially a vocal orchestra,” says Katie.

Katie has just completed a UK tour, and despite its challenges she’s thoroughly enjoyed it.

“I love performing live, you get to go inside songs and live inside them and turn and move them.

Doing that with an audience is quite intense and exciting. We had some real challenges on the road with the choir because sound waves move differently in every venue depending on size and what it's made of so we had to deal with constantly changing acoustics, which obviously every musician has to deal with, but with 24 vocalists needing to hear everything super clearly was essential for our pitching. But I guess that's what made the achievement of these gigs feel so great, that it wasn't a straight forward, well-trodden path, for me, the choir or the crew.”

Now Katie has set a challenge to other choirs to get involved – “My interaction with the Gori Women's Choir has been fascinating to me and I'd love to know how these songs from 'In Winter' might get adopted by other choirs,” she explains. “Bob Chilcott, our arranger, has done new arrangements for different types of choirs, not just all female which is what our choir is. So to hear the arrangements in male voices or mixed choirs should be really interesting.”

As 2017 begins, Katie says it’s one she’s looking forward to – “I'm massively looking forward to it, I want to keep writing and doing more experiments with making records. If something big comes out of it I'll let you know but right now there are no plans to release anything or do any tours.”

Katie is married to superbike star James Toseland and while some celebrity couples struggle, it sounds like she’s found her perfect match!

“It's actually totally exceeded most of my expectations. Marriage looked quite challenging from the outside, you always hear about difficulties in marriage and when they seemed to work there was a cynic in me that didn't quite believe the fairy tales, but so far I totally adore him, we laugh a lot together and it feels like we could face difficult things stronger as a team.

That feeling is pretty great in life

actually. I used to be such a feminist and that's why I feel like I should say this.

“Maybe it's so good because I didn't have high expectations. Ha!” Katie’s album In Winter certainly provides the soundtrack to cosy days in front of the fire. Check out the beautiful video to the track A Perfect World too, it’s a fabulous animation that really captures the essence of this lovely song. www.katiemelua.com

WELLBEIN

Karen Devine’s

New Year New Start

I

t’s that time when we’re reflecting on the year that’s past and how we might make this new one the best yet.

When it comes to ‘New Year New You’ it doesn’t all have to start in January and you don’t need to set resolutions that set you up to fail. A few tweaks and changes throughout the year can start to make a difference.

ESP’s regular Wellbeing columnist Karen Devine is a Peterborough based registered nutritionist, functional medicine practitioner, colonic hydrotherapist and coach, so here are her thoughts on how to start making a change in 2017…

Lack of commitment and loss of motivation are the main reasons New Year resolutions failed last year according to a British Bupa study. How many times have you resolved to do something for the New Year and failed before it even started?

Whilst spring is a much better time to clear the old and welcome the new growth, the New Year is a time for self-reflection and equally it can be time for renewal of self and personal changes.

The winter months can be challenging though, as it’s naturally a time for restoration, rest and conserving our energies. When it comes to New Year goals/resolutions we often need more motivation and help to achieve them.

Ditch the Distractions

Steps to Success

One of the first things to look at is ‘what is your distraction’? Gossip, social media, too much TV, internet browsing? You may find you’re using so much time and energy which leaves you feeling exhausted and yet feeling like you’ve wasted a day or evening. Be honest with yourself, are you on Facebook or Instagram for many hours in the day? You may think not, but, count up all those supposedly ‘brief’ encounters on social media and you may be surprised to find that 3 or 4 hours (or more) of your day are lost in cyberspace. This amount of online addiction can leave you feeling tired with all that energy often wasted, which can add to the feelings of laziness and lack of any will power.

So with your goal/resolution identified, made manageable and any blocks you know could get in the way removed, here are some baby steps you could try depending on your goal –

Resolve to Not Make so Many Resolutions!

Another issue is setting too many, whereas having one identifiable goal/resolution feels more achievable.

The most common resolution (or goals), are weight loss, to exercise more, eat healthier foods, quit smoking, as well as getting more organised, learning a new skill and saving more money. Often by the time February strolls in the goal has been forgotten (for another year)!

Small Steps Towards Big Changes If you really want to achieve one goal for the New Year then firstly make it realistic and secondly break it down into smaller steps. Making small changes which are manageable can be more empowering and can be celebrated as a successful step towards your goal. You know yourself more than anyone, so also write down what obstacles could get in the way of your success so you can become more consciously aware of them and hopefully find solutions to them.

1.

If you have a gym membership but haven’t been in a while, why not just go to the gym café (hopefully they have one) have a cuppa and people watch. We can become the environment we are in, so just being there can give you inspiration to get going again.

2. Make a few tweaks to your diet, munch on some chopped raw veg whilst cooking, eat in colours (red, orange, green, purples, greens etc), ensuring you are taking at least one of each of these colours from the plant kingdom each day. Decide on two days of your week to eat less, more of a cleansing day, such as smoothies, juices, salads, soups etc. You can have two consecutive days or spread them a few days apart.

3. You may want to start running, you could start by just power walking after that maybe look for a running group.

4. Start saving a percentage of your income, even just 1% of your total income put away into a savings account can help shift your energy from feelings of lack to more of abundance. Feelings attract more of the same like a boomerang!

5. Nothing blocks the flow of energy and wellbeing more than being totally unorganised – it causes stagnation and congestion, so start by identifying the worst of your disorganisation and start clearing out the old which makes way for the new.

6. Get more rest and sleep before doing anything, if you’re walking around exhausted you will never find the motivation. Start meditation, or listening to calming music, this drops the level of stress hormones which brings you into a better state of mind.

ESP READER COLONIC OFFER One month colonic offer FOR JANUARY ONLY, just £45 for ESP readers.

Contact me for more details and suitability on www.karendevine.co.uk.

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To help keep you going consider one or two of the following: Share your goal with a friend or partner, and ask them to help hold you accountable for it each week. Call them your accountability buddy!

Maybe you have a friend or partner who shares the same goal so you can walk forward together in reaching it, this can be invaluable to give you both the encouragement you need.

Write it down in a journal, and look at it each day celebrating the steps you are taking as opposed to waiting only until you have reached the goal destination.

Practice the art of daily gratitude, the energy of gratitude is one of the more powerful forces in the universe; it shifts you into a better feeling. The more you find to be grateful for in your life, the more life will bring things to be grateful for. This is an excellent daily practice and one that can keep the momentum going for you to achieve your goal. www.espmag.co.uk

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R

HEALTH ESP’s Rachael Church has all the latest health and beauty news…

&BEAUTY

Time to change… your beauty routine.

The New Year is such a fabulous opportunity to make a few small changes to our health and beauty routines that can make a big difference to how we feel.

Even better, we have a number of experts and shops right here on our doorstep that can help us to make that happen. I’ve got 2017 off to a great start by asking some local experts about how we can make a few small changes to our makeup bag, skin care routine, hair care regime and our health to make us feel wonderful this year.

rachael.church@espmag.co.uk

Here are their advice and top tips:

Makeup With MAC opening up a brand new store in Queensgate, there was only one place I was going to get some top tips for our make up bags. All the staff were wonderfully welcoming and had some great ideas for 2017.

I had a 45 minute makeover to gain a few ideas of how I could change my routine. Our MAC makeup experts told me, “Anyone can come along to our makeup tutorials here in store free of charge. We can also book you in for a full one to one session with one of the girls here for more in-depth advice – a small deposit is taken and then taken off any products you buy at the end.”

Their top tips for small changes you can make to your makeup routine are: 1.

2.

3.

Give yourself a subtle smoky eye look for everyday wear, using a MAC eye makeup primer as a base to keep your eye shadow on and looking fresh all day. Check out the MAC Pro long-wear paint pots to get the look!

Big bold lip colours will perfectly complement a subtle smoky eye – use a lip pencil to colour in your whole lip before adding a lipstick or gloss for maximum effect.

Use a curved makeup brush to apply your foundation, as it will make sure you get a super smooth look and apply your makeup evenly across all the different nooks on your face. MAC’s Duo Fibre curved sculpting brush will do the job nicely.

Skincare Another great new brand has popped up on our doorsteps – a luxurious Liz Earle counter can now be found in Boots at Serpentine

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Green. Michaela is the counter manager and is wonderfully helpful. The great news is that they have award winning skincare products at a very reasonable price.

Michaela, shared with me her top tips for tweaking your beauty routine to look after your winter skin. She says, “Everyone should try to cleanse tone and moisturise, twice a day if you can, for healthy-looking, beautiful skin. The top products to help with this are the Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser. Presented with 125 awards and counting, this original beauty icon deeply cleanses to leave a clearer and brighter-looking skin. Plus the hot cloths on the face feel so refreshing after a long hard day!

“Then, follow up by using the Instant Boost Skin Tonic. This refreshes and soothes the skin and gives an instant boost of hydration. This is because of all the natural ingredients Liz Earle uses including aloe vera to hydrate, calendula, chamomile and cucumber to soothe and refresh, plus antioxidant vitamin E.” Pop along to see Michaela in Boots at Serpentine Green for more tips specific to your skin needs!

Haircare My own top tip for haircare in 2017 comes from The Body Shop! Their coconut oil is a perfect small change you can make to your hair care routine, for amazing results.

The coconut oil by Body Shop is a bargain at £5.50. Apply a small amount after washing your hair, and it will tame any flyaways and add a great shine. This luxury balm is delicately scented with coconut, using organic virgin coconut oil from Samoa and a little goes a long way. Many celebs swear by this product, so give it a try and get catwalk ready hair for 2017.

Health Alcohol Concern’s Dry January is the annual campaign where they challenge people to give up alcohol for the 31 days of January. After a heavy Christmas, what a great way to detox and look after yourself in the New Year. Here are some tips from ESP Magazine to help you stick to the challenge: 1.

Partner with a mate Don’t attempt your Dry January alone. Why not ask a mate for moral support and to do Dry January with you. Having a glass of juice won’t seem quite as boring if you’re in it together.

2.

Sign up for something new You will be amazed how much extra time you’ll have on your hands when your Saturday and Sunday (and Thursday and Friday…) mornings aren’t spent nursing a killer hangover, so make good use of the extra hours. Pick a new hobby or activity, like yoga, watching a new sport, or a trip to the cinema.

3. Reward yourself With all that money saved by not drinking, make sure you treat yourself! With a glass of wine costing at least a fiver, you’ll find yourself with some extra pennies this month.

Use your new-found loose change to treat yourself. Top of our list: a new product for our makeup bags.

4. Healthy Eating You might find yourself eating more to fill the void left by alcohol. So stock up on plenty of healthy snacks to prevent you from reaching for those sugary foods left over after Christmas.

NEW YEAR Time to change…

your approach to fitness

T

houghts always turn to the gym at this time of year but how do you make sure that it remains something that you use?

How often have we all signed up determined to ‘get fit this year’ and work off the festive weight gain only to slump back into our old routine? Time to rethink your approach and make health and fitness part of your lifestyle not a chore.

Vivacity’s Group Exercise Co-ordinator Andrew Playle shares his top tips for fitness success: Create a schedule that suits “Set yourself a few days a week that you know you can make it to the gym or a class. Incorporate it into your timetable so it doesn’t interfere with your normal routine. If you’re a morning person try going to the gym before work, or if evenings suit you take your gym kit with you to work and go to the gym on your way home. You’re far more likely to go to the gym if you don’t go home first, get settled and have to go back out.”

Mix up your routine “New Year is a great time to start but people can often drop out after a few months. Results/weight loss etc. may happen quickly at first but when people reach a ‘plateau’ and the change slows down they often start to lose motivation. This is the time to mix up your gym/class routine to keep your body guessing and keep creating change.”

Set realistic targets routine to bolster results. We don’t “Setting realistic need to starve ourselves to lose targets is very weight. Try cutting down on important. Slow salt/sugar and look more at and steady labels on the foods you eat – a wins the race. small change can make a big Often people difference. Try not to deprive push yourself of everything you themselves like. You can still treat too hard at yourself, just don’t go the start. overboard.”

They have good Make a lifestyle change intentions but “It’s good to set goals to work do too much too towards such as a soon, fatigue holiday/wedding etc. But what quickly and lose happens after this? Being active Andrew Playle motivation. Vivacity and healthy is more of a lifestyle offer a 3 Step Voyage change, a long term solution to improve which is tailored to each our health and well-being. Set goals but keep member’s particular needs – the long term benefits in mind and remember it’s providing a programme to follow, gives education a continuous journey.” and ensures a member is much more likely to succeed.”

Sign up for success “The first step into the gym/class can always be the Be sensible with your diet most intimidating but making that choice to start is “Diet needs to be incorporated into any fitness the biggest step. Go for it! You won’t regret it.”

If you need a bit of extra help to get started with your fitness and healthy eating plan, Vivacity are launching a new weight management class in January.

Classes available at Vivacity Premier Fitness and the Regional Fitness & Swimming Centre. Visit the Vivacity website for more details.

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R FITNESS Sign Up for an Event If you’ve resolved to get a bit fitter and healthier this year, ESP’s Darren Grigas says signing yourself up for an event could be the goal to inspire you…

Vivacity Premier Fitness Has Even More to Offer So if you’re thinking this is the time to join there’s good news from Vivacity as they’ve extended and improved their Premier Fitness centre at Hampton…

It looks like Vivacity Premier Fitness has really raised the bar when it comes to gym facilities in Peterborough.

The centre includes a 25m swimming pool, sauna and steam room, plus three dance, exercise and spin studios offering more than 100 fitness classes every week. There are also four beauty treatment and physiotherapy rooms. Now though, they’ve extended the facilities and made several improvements adding to what was already a premium health and fitness centre.

General Manager at Vivacity Premier Fitness, Ben Clawson-Chan told ESP – “We’ve listened to our customers’ feedback and have made some changes that will benefit our existing members as well as our new members that we invite to join.

“We’ve extended the gym in two areas above the existing reception, increasing both the size and number of stations in the gym. The gym now

benefits from a larger stretch area and a bigger free weights area, with more cardiovascular and resistance machines.

The extension gives us the opportunity to introduce more variety, with some of the planned machines new to market and new types of kit making their debut at the gym.”

There’s`plenty of new kit to try out too including an Olympic lifting platform with power rack, an additional squat rack, benches and dumbbells, Trixter Exercise Bikes and Wattbikes. In total an extra 25 stations have been created.

SmartCentre technology allows you to track and monitor your fitness as you develop. Pre-programmed to automatically set up the machine to your specification, it also gives you instant information on vital stats such as body composition analysis, weight, body fat, water and body mass index.

You’ll notice the differences as soon as you walk in with a more welcoming reception area created on the ground floor. Parents can watch swimming lessons in a special viewing area and there’s also a cosy, quiet area ideal for both working and making use of the free WiFi or just to relax.

Outside, improvements have been made in the car park, where there are now an additional 35 spaces to accommodate more gym users during peak times. Significant improvements have also been made to security.

Security height barriers, fencing around the car parking areas and carefully placed boulders will ensure that only gym users and visitors can gain access to the car park.

Fitness goals are all relative to the individual and it was only four years ago I started running 2-3 miles and had to stop several times to even complete that distance, so I can completely relate to anyone whose ambitions are more grounded than the challenges I take on now.

Personally I'm inspired by people of all levels even those taking on their very first mile!

I love seeing the diverse range of people doing the Park Runs on Saturday mornings round Ferry Meadows or Rutland Water, these are great community sessions with no pressure amongst runners ranging from super sprinters to grannies with dogs and parents with pushchairs.

This is a great place to train towards some of our area’s events coming up this year and having something to aim for can really help you along. For the fun and easy targets there are a few 5k races which also raise money for a great cause and are a great goal to train towards.

• Stamford – Burghley House – Pretty Muddy – Saturday June 3 • Stamford – Burghley House – Race for Life 5K/10K – Sunday June 4 • Peterborough – Ferry Meadows – Race for Life 5K/10K – Sunday July 2 For those that want to get down and dirty and push themselves even further there are a few bigger events worth checking out: • Rat Race Dirty Weekend – Burghley – Saturday May 6 • Bear Grylls Survival Race – Cambridge – Saturday August 19 • Perkins Great Eastern Run – Half Marathon and 5k – Sunday October 8 And it’s not all about running, there are great cycling events all around including www.action.org.uk/peterborough100 which is a great ride that takes in some lovely places around Peterborough I’d never seen before.

I strongly recommend you just bite the bullet, register for an event, tell your friends, get them involved too, and most importantly enjoy it!

www.espmag.co.uk

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DIRECTION Sick of the 9 to 5 routine, feel uninspired, need a new direction in life?

If it’s time to start job hunting, going back into education and training or even making like The Apprentice and setting up your own business, there’s no time like the present!

Time to Set Up Your Own Business Opportunity Peterborough report there were more than 2,000 new start ups (for the 12 months from Nov 2015 to Nov 2016) in the area and as more businesses are created in the first quarter of the year than at any other time, if you’re thinking of setting up for yourself you’ll be in good company.

David Simpson from Opportunity Peterborough says there’s plenty going for the city and its entrepreneurs.

“Peterborough already boasts a world class digital infrastructure and our transport links are excellent.

“Talent and skills are a huge focus for the city and, while Peterborough doesn’t have a thriving Dragon’s Den style angel investment network like some of the larger cities, Opportunity Peterborough can connect businesses to the right sources of funding for them at the right time.”

Here are some tips to help: 1. Second-guess yourself and refine your concept Don’t just assume your idea is viable, try and prove it won’t work. Pick at every angle and look for flaws.

2. Conduct some decent market research (customers, competitors and everyone in between) What will you do differently, better, cheaper, or faster than your competitors? What do your customers want that they’re not getting elsewhere?

Define your target customers.

Who better to ask for advice on starting your own business than Peterborough’s very own winner of The Apprentice Joseph Valente who’s expanded his ImpraGas business with investment from Lord Sugar…

1. If someone's considering changing direction in their job or career this year, what would be your advice?

“Try to look for a new career that allows you to train around your existing job, if you have commitments you may not be able go straight into a new role. Also look for something that suits the way you want to live, maybe less hours or more rewarding – it's not always about the money.”

2. How important do you think training is?

“Training is the most important part of any job as it allows you to do the job to your full potential.”

3. Running your own business isn't easy so how should you decide whether you're up for the task if you're considering setting up in business for yourself?

“You need to be prepared to work 7 days a week 12 plus hours a day and not see family or friends very much for at least a couple of years. That’s the reality.”

4. How should you prepare to start?

“Prepare with a good solid business plan, know your industry, and do your research, understand your margins and cash flow.”

5. What are the main mistakes people make?

“Don't lose sight of what you set out to do, know that not every opportunity that comes will be the right one and keep a close eye on your cash.”

6. What has been the secret to your success?

“Hard work, vision, knowledge of the market and competition and not being afraid to take big risks.”

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3. What business structure are you going to use?

Will you set up as a sole trader or are you planning to scale quickly and recruit employees, in which case a limited company might be a better option. There are pros and cons to all business structures so finding the right one for your enterprise needs careful consideration. Take a look at www.gov.uk/business-legalstructures.

4. Licensing, legal, insurance and protecting your intellectual property Can you just set-up and get started with your idea, or are there legal implications to what you’re doing? Do you need specific insurance to protect you if the worst happens? Consider protecting

your intellectual property.

5. Plan, plan and plan some more Your business plan is your new best friend and a critical document that will assist you in working towards a sustainable business model.

There are plenty of business plan templates online, as well as local organisations that can help you prepare one.

Opportunity Peterborough can steer you to the most appropriate support.

6. Think about funding and finance Whether you’re planning purely organic growth brought about by the revenues you’ll generate, or you need to purchase stock, machinery, premises or even scale-up quickly, you’ll need to get a grasp on your finances and the vast array of funding sources available. Opportunity Peterborough can signpost you to the relevant place.

7. Create an identity Choose a name – and choose it well. It’s going to define your business for a long time to come. Check the rules for naming a company – Companies House has some guidelines. Design a logo, register a domain name and build your website.

SET YOUR GOALS If you’re feeling stuck and don’t seem to be able to implement the changes you vow to every year, maybe a life coach can help.

Life coaching enables you to focus on yourself and provides the tools to create and achieve goals and progress aspects of your life.

By outlining areas requiring attention and setting up a plan of monthly, weekly or daily disciplines, you can really focus and finally succeed and make things happen.

Local life coach Odette Smee, BA (Hons), Cert Ed told ESP – “Life coaching empowers individuals to initiate and facilitate their own success. We’ve all

8. Think about business premises It may well all be about location, location, location, but the nature of your business will clearly affect your setting and premises requirements.

Don’t underestimate the impact of having a city centre office on your website/stationary versus your home address.

9. Ask for external help (professional advisers, mentors, friends and family), and keep asking…

Opportunity Peterborough can help you to find your way through the jungle of support available, both locally and nationally; so find out more about the support they offer businesses to start up and grow in Peterborough at www.opportunitypeterborou gh.co.uk or, call 01733 317417.

10. Get out and network!

You need to make time to get out and meet with other business owners to share ideas, ask advice and just have a chat.

Opportunity Peterborough runs the New Business Network to give new business owners the chance to do just that. It meets regularly, and if you’re interested in joining (for free, of course), call on 01733 317417.

made those resolutions on January 1 only to lose momentum by the end of the month, feeling weekwilled and disappointed. Working with a life coach can provide inspiration towards achieving that weight loss or job change or house move, by keeping the end (goal) in mind and then actively working towards it.”

Everyone needs a little help from time to time in different areas of life so rather than struggling along you could seek help from coaches in various specialisms ranging from spiritual coaching to parent coaching or financial to business coaching as well as general life coaching.

See also: www.the-coaching-academy.com www.nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk www.lifecoaching.com.

Start a Degree at the End of January January is the time of year when you make resolutions about how you’re going to improve your life in 2017. As well as getting fitter or going on a diet, one of the most popular resolutions is to improve your qualifications to get a dream job.

To start a degree you’d traditionally wait until September, but now you don't need to wait 9 months longer as University Centre Peterborough has a number of degrees and courses which you can start at the end of January.

Many of the courses on offer with a January start are suitable for mature students or if you are already in employment. If you’re working it’s still possible to improve your career by studying, as the University Centre timetables their courses to fit around your personal circumstances.

For example, those starting the CIPD Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resources Management would only need to be off work for the afternoon as the course includes evening study. Many other courses would only require one day release from work.

How do I fund my studies?

Some employers will fund staff to complete a degree so check with your manager or HR department. Alternatively, tuition fees for the majority of courses are available for both UK and EU students so you can fund yourself and pay it off at the end of your degree. Visit

www.gov.uk/student-finance for how to apply and when you have to pay it back.

Why start in January?

If you start your degree in January you can get benefit from the 2016/17 rate for undergraduate tuition fees, which is £1,500 lower than most other universities and still available for UK and EU students.

The following courses start at the end of January: • Business Management • CIPD: Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resources Management • Computing & Information Systems • Construction Management • Crime & Investigative Studies • Integrated Engineering • Mechanical & Electronic Engineering • Multimedia Journalism • Performing Arts For more information about University Centre Peterborough please contact 01223 695750, email hello@ucp.ac.uk or visit www.ucp.ac.uk

ROUTINE S

Photo: Chris Porsz

ometimes you need to shake things up a bit and add some new dimensions to you life. It doesn’t have to be an earth shattering change – maybe a new hobby, a class, signing up for an experience or just getting more involved in a local project. Sometimes giving up a little time to try something new or for a good cause can have big benefits for your health, outlook and give you a little more zest for life!

Get Out There Make this the year you get outside more! Most people would agree fresh air, sunlight and being in the natural environment makes you feel so much better so if you’re cooped up in the office on the 9 to 5 maybe it’s time to get out there.

The new Walk Peterborough website is a great inspiration to get out and explore.

The website is designed specifically to record different routes around the city and surrounding areas. In addition, through mobile optimisation and GPS data, you can now conveniently map and follow your route on the go.

Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s cultural and heritage sites, enjoy family-friendly days out, improve your health and well-being, want to find dogfriendly walks or are simply looking to enjoy the natural environment – there’s something for everyone! You can also choose a walking distance to suit you.

The charity Peterborough Environment City Trust (PECT) has produced the new website, with funding from Travelchoice. Travelchoice aims to encourage the use of sustainable travel, reduce the need to travel by car, and

improve the quality of life for all residents while reducing the city’s impact on climate change.

“Walk Peterborough is a fantastic resource for exploring the beauty of the city on foot with friends, family and colleagues,” explains Esther Baffa-Isaacs, Sustainable Travel Officer at Travelchoice. “It can be used to plot your commute to work, college or university and set up walking buses to schools.

The value of the social aspects of the site is endless because it makes it possible for people to share their latest walking adventure and give inspiration to others.”

Not only can you see a range of suggested walks to do around Peterborough, you can even add in your own route ideas to help others like you discover more of Peterborough. For more details email info@pect.org.uk and visit the website at www.walkpeterborough.co.uk.

Try Volunteering Doing something for a good cause can be great motivation to enjoy a new experience and can be hugely rewarding even if you only do it once.

Peterborough Environment City Trust (PECT) is an independent charity that’s always on the look out for volunteers for various projects.

Why not play your part in creating a new local woodland? Their Forest for Peterborough project aims to plant 6,000 trees throughout the city and surrounding areas up to March 2017. It’s a great opportunity to play a part in a legacy for the city and get some fresh air and exercise!

The aim of the Forest for Peterborough project is to plant one tree for every person living in Peterborough.

Planting days for early 2017 run from Saturday January 21 through to Saturday March 25, focusing on sites in Bretton and Werrington.

If you’re interested in volunteering, email simon.belham@pect.org.uk or call 07715 372432 or visit www.pect.org.uk/forest.

You could help out one of the many local charities in a host of different ways from supporting events, manning stands or sharing your skills.

For example The British Heart Foundation needs help in their two Peterborough shops as well as at their local fundraising events.

Whether you love working with people, pride yourself on your organisational or leadership skills or would like to develop your CV they’re always on the lookout for people to help.

Taking part in charity events is great fun but sometimes playing your part in making them happen can be just as good.

BHF fundraising Manager Nigel Cole told ESP – “The Peterborough BHF fundraising group is an amazing group of volunteers who donate their time each year to enable hundreds of people to run, walk, cycle and swim to raise thousands of pounds for life saving research.

“The only way to find out what volunteering is like is to give it a go. It’s an immeasurable experience and totally addictive. Our volunteers play a vital role in making events a massive success and we have opportunities to suit everyone.”

You can contact Nigel on colen@bhf.org.uk or 07734 072973.

Try Something New We all get jaded and most of us will have something we keep saying we’d like to try but never get around to so whether it’s jumping out of a plane at Sibson on a parachute jump or taking up a hobby, see if you can make this the year you make it happen.

There’s so much you can try locally from archery to canoeing, learning to ski to learning to paint. There are some great classes to try at the City College from arts and crafts to cookery, from complementary therapies to DIY so just take a look at www.citycollegepeterborough.ac.uk.

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Inspired by Strictly Come Dancing?

Peterborough has various Salsa classes with Everybody Salsa www.everybodysalsa.com and JC Salsa to name just two, or all forms of dance at local dance schools such as Tu Dance, www.tudanse.co.uk.

Whatever takes your fancy, make the time to add something into your week just for you this year and you’ll reap the benefits!

How to keep a

New Year’s Resolution Kev Lawrence, Breakfast Presenter for Heart

That all changes this year – starting now. No, seriously, I mean it this time!

I know I’m not alone with these broken promises.

Statistics show that roughly just 8% of people stick to their New Year’s resolutions. According to a poll I found on the internet (so it must be true) most people don’t make it past March without failing at their goal.

To help us succeed this time around, I have the best tips I could find – seeking advice far and wide, even going as far as Cambridge!

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Make your resolution something you’re truly passionate about. A large majority of us are peoplepleasers – which is all very well – but your resolution has to be something you want to do and not something others want you to do.

Be specific. The most popular resolution is to lose weight. Don’t just say “I’ll cut out take-aways” or “I’ll workout more”. Be more precise with your objectives by stating that you will have just one take-out pizza a fortnight or you’ll workout at 5.30pm every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. And for those who say they don’t have time, remember that a 15 minute HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) workout can be just as effective (sometimes more) than an hour at the gym. There are hundreds of free ones on YouTube which can be done in your living room.

Give yourself a reason to workout. Signing up to something such as The Great Eastern Run is a great way to kick start things. Unless I have something to train for, I rarely do anything that gets the heart racing. I personally need a reason – and perhaps you are similar? Also, doing a challenge on behalf of a charity is a great motivator.

Gain support from a friend. If you share the same goal, help each other. Speak to the other one when you’re having thoughts of giving up. Treat yourselves from time to time. Have fun with it.

Don’t beat yourself up if you don’t succeed. As an example, perhaps you just had a cigarette after quitting for three months. Most of us look at this as failing and think “Well, I may as well give up”. We all make mistakes. Don’t wait for 2018 to try again.

Remember, every passing week, day and hour is a chance to start over.

Whatever you decide to do as your New Year resolution, all the best with it. I’m personally feeling confident that this is the year I stick to mine. No, seriously!

MY RESOLUTION: “I generally don’t bother mostly because I’m useless at seeing them through. But there are three things I have in my mind… 1) Be more spontaneous 2) Play more golf and 3) Tell my loved ones how much I love them more than I do!”

Cllr David Sanders, Mayor of Peterborough MY HIGHLIGHTS OF 2016: “Being Mayor has been really humbling and a special experience. It’s given me the chance to meet people and organisations I would never have had the privilege to come across, and the opportunity to raise money for my charities has also been a real highlight.”

MY RESOLUTION: “After all the mince pies it’s got to be to lose weight!”

Paul Stainton, Presenter on BBC Radio Cambridgeshire MY HIGHLIGHTS OF 2016: “I will always remember 2016 for the debacle that was St Michael’s Gate. People legally thrown out of their houses in this city so that others could move in. You just couldn’t make it up!

“The resident’s unflinching fight for moral justice, in the face of such ugly and blatant capitalism, won my admiration and my heart.

“They had nobody on their side, they were left to fend for themselves, yet their campaign shone a light, locally and nationally, on an injustice that could affect any of us.

“It may be too late for their cause, but hopefully their efforts will result in a change in the law, that will help those in a similar situation in the future.

The residents of St Michael’s Gate are an inspiration to us all.”

MY RESOLUTION: “I am going to try not to upset any local councillors on the radio.”

Posh Director of Football Barry Fry MY HIGHLIGHTS OF 2016: “2016 was a frustrating year, but we have had some highs at the football club which include the FA Cup ties with West Bromwich Albion where the whole nation watched us on BBC. “The appointment of Grant McCann has proved to be a very shrewd one, he has an excellent win ratio and we are playing some excellent football.”

Photo: www.theposh.com

Every year I make the same New Year’s resolutions. I promise myself that I’ll write a novel, be more organised and lose weight. At the time of writing this article (Dec, 2016) I’ve written half a page of the novel, I’m still running around like a headless chicken and the beer belly remains as rounded as ever.

MY HIGHLIGHTS OF 2016: “2016 has been a fantastic year on our Heart Breakfast show – with record listening figures. I’ve been doing Breakfast shows for 20 years in Peterborough now, and despite the early alarm calls I’ve still got the same buzz as when I first started.

“Highlights have been getting local Olympic medallist Dan Goodfellow on our show with his Bronze medal. He inspired me to take a dive off the top board at Peterborough Regional Pool, although it was a feet first dive!

“Also at Halloween I did the show as a zombie after having a make-over. I looked like a Walker from the Walking Dead, and hosting the Perkins Great Eastern Run was another highlight.”

MY RESOLUTION: “There is only one New Year’s resolution and that is to get promoted and we will do everything we can to achieve that dream.”

Mikey Clarke www.espmag.co.uk

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paparazzi Caught in the act?

PAWS RUNS FOR CHARITY Peterborough Greyhounds have a very special dog racing at the track and ESP was at the stadium to join the crowds watching him race.

From all the races that ‘Paws for Charity’ will run, the prize money, win or place, will go directly to support the Alzheimer’s Society. This has all been supported through the GBGB (Greyhound Board of Great Britain) being the first charity dog that has all costs waivered.

Serpentine Green Shopping Centre are sponsoring Paws for Charity for the next six months, which will help to cover costs such as food, care and training. Owner Ian Bartley has donated half of this money straight to the Alzheimers Society.

David Wait, centre manager at Serpentine Green says - “We are delighted to sponsor Paws for Charity as it is a fantastic way to raise funds for The Alzheimer’s Society while enjoying a great night out at Peterborough Greyhounds, good luck to anyone who has a flutter on our dog.”

Our photographer Mike Harris captured the action.

You can view all our Paparazzi pics on Facebook.

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Paws for Charity

www.espmag.co.uk

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Gavin Miller’s

Photo: For illustration purposes only, not Peterborough Showcase

gavin.miller@espmag.co.uk

All seating in the Boongate-based cinema’s 13 screens have been replaced with luxuriously plush fully customisable recliners – offered at no extra cost to customers – which will lead to the cinema being rebranded as Showcase Cinema de Lux. Coupled with crystal clear 4K digital projection, and ultra-sharp image quality in every screen, you will now be able to lie back and immerse yourself in the latest blockbuster movie in the ultimate comfort.

Jonathan Wheeler, General Manager of Showcase Cinema Peterborough – who also oversaw the renovation of the lobby area and introduction of the Lounge Bar in late 2013 – is proud that the city has been the ‘flagship’ cinema for the most up-to-date iteration of Showcase’s Cinema de Lux brand.

He told ESP – “We are delighted to introduce Showcase Cinema de Lux to Peterborough, with the leather reclining seats having already received amazing feedback – especially since they cost no more than our regular old seats.

“All our seats are now allocated for guests to choose, and we are introducing Carte D’or ice cream, as well as a refurbished concessions stand to make the experience even greater, and our new ‘freestyle’ Coke machines allow guests to choose from over 100 different Coca-Cola drink combinations – and we offer free refills!”

ESP READER

COMPETITION ESP Magazine has teamed up with the new look Showcase Cinema de Lux Peterborough and is giving you the chance to see one of this year’s new releases for free!

You’ll be able to enjoy the fab new seating at a film of your choice* and it won’t cost you a penny if

Jonathan added – “We do believe that the whole experience here is truly a game changer and I welcome any feedback from our guests on this new cinema experience.”

It now means that the cinema’s capacity has reduced dramatically as a whole to feature this new seating – reflecting similar installations at other Showcase sites such as Nottingham, Leeds and Reading – but should lead to screens being closer to capacity throughout the day, instead of the usual peak times.

ESP film critic, Gavin Miller, who’s been going to the cinema since it opened in 1988 and has had a fantastic rapport with staff for more than twenty years since starting as a movie reviewer in 1995, has been extremely impressed with the overhaul.

Gavin says – “It’s great that Peterborough’s Showcase, a place that I often call my second home, was chosen to make it arguably the most advanced cinema in the country, particularly in terms of seating comfort at the very least.

“After experiencing it myself, it really is the most comfortable way I’ve viewed films in my lifetime, and the seats are so nice I even find myself clearing up my cookie crumbs afterwards to not make a mess!

“Credit to Jonathan and the cinema staff for their patience in being part of this major refurbishment – which I know has lead to some significant upheaval in the past few months – I think the end result is amazing.”

3 PAIRS OF CINEMA TICKETS TO WIN!

you’re our lucky winner.

We have three pairs of tickets up for grabs which must be used before the end of March 2017 (*Contractual stipulations apply, so tickets may not be used for some films within 14 days of release).

To enter just answer the following question and

email your answer to competition@espmag.co.uk along with your name, address and contact telephone number.

Q – Michael Fassbender stars in which movie based on a popular gaming series?

Competition closes 31/01/17. Winners will be notified. Tickets can only be used at the Peterborough Showcase Cinema. Tickets must be used by the end of March 2017. *Contractual stipulations apply, so tickets may not be used for some films within 14 days of release – check with the cinema before visiting.

36 www.espmag.co.uk

All release dates are correct at the time of going to press.

Showcase Cinema in Peterborough is now showcasing the ultimate cinematic experience – with their multi-million pound refurbishment now complete.

All release dates are correct at the time of going to press.

ASSASSIN’S CREED Michael Fassbender (the recent X-Men trilogy) headlines his ‘pet project’ based around the highlyacclaimed Assassin’s Creed gaming series. He stars as Callum Lynch, a man who experiences the adventures of his fifteenth century Spanish assassin ancestor Aguilar through a revolutionary technology that unlocks his genetic memories. He then amasses his incredible knowledge and skills to take on the oppressive and powerful Templar organisation in the present day.

Released

JAN

1

MANCHESTER

BY THE SEA The early front-runner for Oscar season is this drama, directed by Gangs of New York screenwriter Kenneth Lonergan, which sees Casey Affleck’s uncle return home to care for his nephew (Lucas Hedges) after his brother (Super 8’s Kyle Chandler) passes away.

Throughout the movie he recounts past memories that saw him move away from his Massachusetts hometown where he rekindles contact with his ex-wife (Brokeback Mountain’s Michelle Williams).

Released

JAN

13

LA LA LAND The early favourite for Academy Awards (after seven impressive Golden Globe nominations) is this musicaldrama from the writer of Whiplash. Gangster Squad co-stars Ryan Gosling (The Notebook) and Emma Stone (Birdman) headline as a jazz musician and aspiring actress respectively, who are faced with decisions that begin to fray the fragile fabric of their love affair – and the dreams they worked so hard to maintain threaten to tear them apart.

Released

JAN

13

JAN

19

Released

JAN

27

T2: TRAINSPOTTING Nope, not Terminator 2, but a sequel to the truly iconic 1996 British comedy-tinted drug-fuelled drama Trainspotting, from Oscar-winning Slumdog Millionaire director Danny Boyle. Set twenty years after the original film, Renton (Ewan McGregor) returns to Glasgow to make amends with his friends Sick Boy (Jonny Lee Miller) and Spud (Ewen Bremner), while trying to avoid the psychotic Begbie (Robert Caryle), who has recently been released from prison.

Bigger is definitely better as EA semireboots its shooting series – and generally hits the mark.

The single-player campaign still might not be as ‘meaty’ as required, but the World War 1-inspired backdrop does strongly add to the storyline – with the multiplayer mode being simply ‘epic’ with up to 64 players battling it out.

Combine this with the series’ trademark visuals and sensationally destructive environments – then this was undoubtedly a good move for Battlefield as it took a better route than COD on this occasion.

With interesting new weaponry and excellent use of vehicles this is a very exciting ‘rebirth’ for Battlefield, which gets the franchise back on track.

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CALL OF DUTY: INFINITE WARFARE Props has to be given to Activision for trying something a little different – even if it probably doesn’t quite come off in all areas.

It takes a different route to Battlefield, as the franchise ventures into futuristic space combat – but compared to previous iterations doesn’t really raise the bar like it has done before.

The campaign story is largely ho-hum, and – bar an addictive Zombies mode – multiplayer doesn’t really bring anything new to the table that betters last year’s Black Ops III. Undoubtedly still one of the most competent shooting experiences out there – but this year’s version doesn’t quite take it to ‘infinity and beyond’.

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Released

HACKSAW RIDGE Braveheart’s Oscar-winning director Mel Gibson returns to form by helming this World War II drama led by ex-Spider-Man actor Andrew Garfield, who stars as American army medic Desmond Doss – who became the first man in US history to receive the Medal of Honour without firing a shot. Point Break remake co-stars Luke Bracey and Teresa Palmer, Avatar’s Sam Worthington and The Lord of the Rings’ Hugo Weaving, provide support.

(PS4/X1/PC)

(X1/PS4/PC)

XXX: THE RETURN OF XANDER CAGE After a fifteen year hiatus (or twelve years if you count the Ice Cube-headlining sequel) Vin Diesel (The Fast and Furious series) returns as extreme athlete turnedgovernment-operative Xander Cage, who – even though thought to be long dead – comes out of selfimposed exile to lead a team in a race to recover a sinister and seemingly unstoppable weapon known as ‘Pandora’s Box’. Tony Jaa, Samuel L Jackson and Donnie Yen (as nemesis Xiang) co-star.

BATTLEFIELD 1

TITANFALL 2 (PS4/X1/PC)

Even though the original game was generally well-received, very rarely do developers take on board ‘all’ fan feedback and implement it in the sequel – but refreshingly they have here.

Just like with EA’s Star Wars: Battleground (which will be resolved with that sequel as well), at least this has put to bed the notion that you can make a game of this size without a single-player campaign – and the one included in this is a worthy one at that.

Pilot and Titan are similarly even more on the same page for the over-the-top multiplayer battles that have also been honed in a very impressive fashion – which makes sure this follow up doesn’t fall.

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Released

JAN

27

ALSO FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION: A MONSTER CALLS (January 1), SILENCE (January 1), LIVE BY NIGHT (January 13), UNDERWORLD: BLOOD WARS (January 13)

www.espmag.co.uk

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by Pep Cipriano

Proudly sponsored by

FRM AUTOMOTIVE LTD Unit 11, Lionsquare Business Park, Saville Road, Westwood, Peterborough, PE3 7PR Tel: 01733 333838 | www.frmautomotive.co.uk

pep.cipriano@espmag.co.uk

DRIVING UP STANDARDS

‘

Photos: Emma Bothamley

A while back some residents complained to the city council that carrying out civic traditions in the 21st century was costing our local authority money it didn’t need to spend.

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hey were referring to the Mayor and suggested he give up his Jaguar, sell his private number plate and arrive at civic duties and distinguished events in a Lada Riva.

Thankfully, tradition prevailed and today’s Mayor continues to perform his first citizen role in a gracious and dignified manner, which means being transported in the best of British that is a Jaguar.

But had current Mayor David Sanders been in the civic seat at the time, his solution would have probably been to rock up for diary dates on his pride and joy – a Kawasaki GTR 1400.

David’s passion for motorcycles began in his boyhood years and by the time adulthood was upon him, he was managing a 38 www.espmag.co.uk

major motorcycle dealership. He ran the city’s Kawasaki shop in Millfield for more than 30 years before selling up to focus on his father’s business.

I’ve got a lot to thank David for, as I bought my first bike off him for an absolute steal mainly because he was distracted at the time by the leggy blonde motorcycle parts sales rep in his showroom.

I ended up riding away on a mint, low mileage Honda Hornet that I should’ve parted a few hundred quid extra for. When I traded it in at another dealership two years later I ended up getting £500 more than what I paid for it!

I now ride a Triumph Street Triple and as it happens, David has a bit of love for this king of cool motorcycle brand.

“Triumphs have always been jaw-droppingly beautiful but when we were kids we made the best of Honda C50’s and would race around the fields on them. I then started fixing bikes and sold a few to classmates while I was still at school.

“I always liked Kawasaki’s and the original Z1 900 and H2 750 were the bikes I dreamt of in my early teens. I went on to sell Kawasakis for 32 years and it wouldn’t have been appropriate if I rode another make of bike, but I have to admit I’ve always had a thing for Triumphs.

“They’re quintessentially British and have been the choice of icons down the years. There’s a bike for everyone in their current range and I could spend all day in a Triumph showroom and not get bored.”

So, the man who brought Kawasaki to Peterborough has a soft spot for Britain’s finest but his heart is still with the Japanese manufacturer that he continues to get pleasure from today.

“I guess you could say Kawasaki bikes are in my blood, since I’ve cut myself enough times working on them! It all started with our first dealership on Lincoln Road in 1978.

The city was going through massive expansion in the 1970s and with it came bike dealerships but there was nothing for Kawasaki.

“It was an opportunity for us and the shop immediately took off. Ten

years later we expanded to bigger premises at the New England end of Lincoln Road where we remained until 2010 when my dad fell ill.

“As a result, I took over his property and haulage business and had to let go of the dealership. I sold all the bikes but kept the GTR 1400 back for myself.”

Kawasaki has a bike for everyone and I remember David’s showroom also boasting decent used stock from other manufacturers. Picking one bike from that mouth-watering selection is like asking me to choose my favourite Page 3 girl. But David assured me he was never going to make a boob when it came to his selection process.

“It’s true I had dozens of fantastic bikes to choose from but if I’m honest I knew what I wanted straight away. I decided on the GTR because after years of head down and bum in the air riding, I wanted to slow down a bit. So, I opted for a comfortable touring bike, which still had plenty of power but was easy to ride and could handle well too.

“The GTR is maintenance friendly and it’s everything I wanted and more. It’s six years old and I’ve only done 3,000 miles but I appreciate it more by not riding it every day. It’s not a mode of transport for me, it’s a toy that’s giving me hours of fun.”

We boys do love our expensive

Pep Cipriano

The ULTIMATE Combat Gaming Experience Airsoft is a military simulation game similar to paintball. It costs a lot less to play, it hurts less and uses realistic looking replica weapons.

toys and David and I are on the same page. I too have covered the same number of miles on a bike of similar age and often get asked why I bother keeping it. But unless you’ve ridden a motorbike you’ll never truly know why we find it so difficult to part with them. “There’s more to owning a bike than riding it. Since leaving the motorcycle industry I’ve turned into a fair-weather rider but I’m enjoying motorcycling more now than when I was selling them. You’ll appreciate it Pep when I say how liberating it feels riding a bike on a sunny day, it’s all about the freedom and fresh air. “I love riding to the coast in the summer and passing all the cars stuck in traffic jams. You arrive in half the time, eat your fish and chips and ride back waving at the cars still queuing to get there! And I know I’m sad when I say I enjoy polishing my bike more than riding it. Sometimes it gives me just as much pleasure looking at it gleaming back at me than throwing my leg over for a blast.�

And if David could be a famous motorcyclist for a day, who would it be? “Barry Sheene for me was the bravest and just a great character. He didn’t live too far from here at one point during his career and I was lucky enough to meet him a couple of times. He was very approachable and became one of the sport’s best ambassadors – a true legend.�

What’s your Pride and Joy? Whatever your wheels, old or new, if you’d like to be featured in ESP just get in touch via our Facebook, Twitter or email office@espmag.co.uk.

Two unique sites and different styles of gaming.

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Q GO TAKES THE QUEUE OUT OF PARKING

50% OFF

Queensgate Shopping Centre has launched an exciting new initiative called Q Go, an easy-to-pay contactless car parking system.

Similar to an Oyster Card, a Q Go card, available from the customer information desk, can be topped up with credits and used by simply presenting the card at the entrance and exit of Queensgate’s car parks.

Designed to remove the need to queue at payment machines, Q Go is free to register and you can do so at the customer information desk outside John Lewis or by emailing customerservice@queensgatecm.co.uk. A personalised Q Go card can be created and ready to use on the same day. “The introduction of Q Go will improve the complete customer experience at Queensgate, from start to finish,� says Centre Director, Mark Broadhead. “The contactless system will allow our customers to freely come and go as they please, without the need to queue to make payment at the machines, which I know will be welcome news.�

For more information, visit http://www.queensgateshopping.co.uk/customer-services/q-go.html www.espmag.co.uk

39

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ALL FOOD PURCHASES IN THE RAMBLEWOOD INN WHEN YOU SPEND ÂŁ OR MORE The ESP Reader Offer is only valid when you spend ÂŁ or more on food and is WBMJE GSPN SE +BO VOUJM UI 'FC . The EJTDPVOU does not apply to spend on drinks or for group bookings of eight or more. To receive your coupon for 50% OFF food purchases, just text us the word ‘RAMBLEWOOD’ along with your NAME and EMAIL address on the number shown, or email offers@ espmag.co.uk to receive your coupon along with your NAME and PHONE NUMBER. "MUFSOBUJWFMZ MPH PO UP XXX FTQNBH DP VL PGGFST BOE DMJDL PO UIF 3BNCMFXPPE PGGFS BOE QSJOU PVU ZPVS WPVDIFS

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Royals Set to Make History Again They burst onto the scene back in September and haven't looked back since. Now, the Peterborough Royals are set to make history once again as the city's first and only women's American Football team prepare for full contact games in 2017.

Photo: P & M Photography

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he club, lead by the UK's first female Head Coach Benita Grant-Booker, are currently looking for women in and around the city who fancy a new challenge.

Whether you're looking for ways to get active and meet new people, or already play other sports and just want to try something different, American Football offers a unique prospect for local ladies looking to make a difference in the New Year.

If you fancy joining these girls on the Gridiron, you'll be pleased to hear they have positions available to suit all shapes and sizes. With players ranging from 5ft and 8st to 6ft plus and over 18st, there’s something to suit everyone and with no cuts, rejections or exclusions, the club’s keen for women put off by more mainstream sports, to give American Football a try.

If you're already a fitness fanatic, then you might be interested to learn that American Football players can burn up to 900 calories an hour and for much less than the cost of an average gym membership, so if you're looking for an affordable way to get fitter or just want to de-stress after a hard week at work, the Royals would love to talk to you.

New players are in safe hands under the leadership of Benita Grant-Booker, a pioneer of the women's game who started her

playing career in Atlanta back in 2002 winning numerous awards and competing at the world championships before turning her hand to coaching.

"We're going to make this city proud," she said. "American Football is one of the best sports around, but players have to work hard – we Royals like to have fun, but when we step on the field our opponents are trying to hit us as hard as they can, and vice versa – so we have to take our preparation seriously."

Tanya Brown, a regular gym goer and newcomer to the sport added – "I knew nothing about the game before my first training session.

Girls Play Rugby Too! Jasmine’s a cheerleader, Grace sings in the cathedral choir and Holley’s had football trials with Arsenal.

Liberty’s into diving while Jessica plays violin. Steffanie plays county cricket, Charlotte’s a ballet dancer and Abigail’s a hockey goalkeeper.

They all have something in common, though – playing rugby.

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Yes, rugby. It’s not just for blokes who then drink their own body weight in beer after a game. Girls play rugby too!

And these girls – in the 20strong Peterborough under-13 girls squad – play it somewhat better than everyone else. In the first half of the season they celebrated an

I'm comfortable with the physical side of things, but didn't realise how technical it was. As well as taking care of yourself off the field, it's important to find time to read up and study to really understand what’s happening."

But what about all that kit and equipment we hear you ask? Surely those helmets and shoulder pads are expensive?

You're right, but the Royals recently secured a £10,000 grant from Sport England to purchase 25 sets of kit, meaning newcomers won’t have to shell out for their own and can start playing right away.

You don't have to wait long to

try either. The Royals are holding a series of new player sessions on January 7, 14 and 21 starting from 10am at Stanground College.

These 'rookie days', delivered with support from Sport England and Living Sport are the perfect introduction to the game, so whether you’re just curious or chomping at the bit to run into a fellow female as fast as you can, you can register for more information at the Royals’ website www.getready.org.uk or follow the club on social media for all their latest updates. Facebook: @PeterboroughRoyals Twitter: @PTownRoyals

amazing 21 victories from their 21 games – even better than the England mens’ team’s current record-equalling winning streak of 14 matches.

It’s been a sensational debut year for the team, which has included being filmed for a feature on CBBC TV show Newsround and getting a mention on the Chris Evans Breakfast Show on Radio Two. “This is something really special,” said Simon Potter, who set up the team a year ago, after coaching the team that included his daughter in Peterborough Rugby Club’s ‘mini’ section for the previous five years.

“Rugby rules say girls have to play in boys’ teams until they get to the age of 11, but then can’t play after that unless there’s a girls’ team in their area.

“When my daughter was approaching 11, she was facing up to not being able to play rugby any more as the closest teams to here are in Boston, Bedford, Market Harborough

and Northampton. So I set up a team in Peterborough.”

A handful of girls who’d been playing at other nearby clubs were recruited and then, under the guidance of coaching genius Paddy Murray, a dozen or more newcomers to the sport were trained into becoming lean, mean rugby machines. Purple Bricks, McIntyre Electrical and Unite came on board as sponsors and the rest is history.

“This team has a lot of potential to go a long, long way,” added Paddy.

“We’ve got some really talented players and they’re a joy to coach.”

Next season will see both under-15 and under-13 girls’ teams at the Fengate-based club, where new recruits are always welcomed.

Training is on Tuesday evenings at 6.30 (under floodlights during the winter months) with matches on Sunday afternoons. Anyone interested should contact spotter@prufc.com.

THE POSH PAGE ESP’s columnist Phil Adlam brings us the exclusives on all things Peterborough United… adult to watch a Posh league fixture at the ABAX Stadium for just £10 (a massive saving on the adult match day price).

Photos: theposh.com

“The reaction we have already had from pupils is fantastic...”

I think it’s fair to say that 2016 was an eventful year, both on and off the field at the ABAX Stadium and 2017 promises to be another newsworthy 12 months. From Sporting Dinners with Jimmy Bullard to a concert with Sir Elton John, there is plenty to look forward to.

A

few months back, I spoke about my plan to go into a number of Primary Schools within the region to try and encourage the youngsters to support their local side. I know for a fact the impact seeing a player or seeing the mascot, Peter Burrow, has on kids.

We’re not reinventing the wheel by holding assemblies at these schools, but what we are doing is creating a bit of a buzz.

Before Christmas, we launched the ‘Schools Programme’ with a visit to Abbotsmede Primary School and

It is simple to just give a free ticket to a child, but we have to be mindful that they will be bringing a parent or a guardian with them and that costs money so this voucher helps them attend without having to break the bank.

The reaction we have already had from pupils is fantastic and hopefully over the next few months we can start seeing an impact on attendances in the Motorpoint Stand of the stadium and ultimately help the team win matches.

This is a New Year and everybody makes resolutions at this time of the year – mine is to ensure that every school within the Greater Peterborough area has the opportunity to work with us as a football club and ultimately create the fans of the future. It is far more achievable than giving up chocolate for me!

Phil

followed that up with a visit to Old Fletton Primary School.

These assemblies featured an introduction to the club from myself, a short DVD of some memorable recent moments and a visit from one or two of the first team squad. Peter Burrow is a crazy soul at the best of times, but in the morning, that guy can really outshine everyone with his enthusiasm.

Each child at the schools we have visited and will visit over the coming months will receive a voucher enabling them and an

ESP READER

COMPETITION WIN POSH TICKETS We have four tickets up for grabs for you to catch Peterborough United in action in a league game of your choice (subject to availability).

That equates to just over £80 worth of footy action for free if you’re our lucky winner.

To enter just email us the answer to this question, along with your name, address and contact telephone number to competition@espmag.co.uk

Q - In what year was Peterborough United formed?

Competition closes 31/01/17. Winners will be notified. Usual competition rules apply and there is no cash alternative.

42 www.espmag.co.uk

NIGHTlife

Your guide to the night time scene

GREAT NIGHT ON THE WAY

MIXOLOGY IS BACK WITH RAFFA FL Responsible for arguably the biggest track in Ibiza this past summer, the guys over at Red Room on Broadway are thrilled to welcome Raffa FL to headline Mixology for their first event of 2017!

‘How We Do’ took the island by storm featuring in pretty much every heavy hitting DJ’s sets including Richy Ahmed, Eats Everything, Marco Carola, Russ Yallop, Santè, Sidney Charles, Matthias Tanzmann, Hector Couto, Cuartero…

Over the past few years Raffa has built a reputation for explosive, tech-house power sets, particularly on the London scene at the likes of Egg, 93 Feet East, Lightbox & Fire. His energetic sets have led to Raffa in 2016 being booked by the ever entertaining Elrow at Space, Loop & Sankeys.

Joining Raffa at Mixology are residents Tom Skinner, Dan Clare and James Chan. They tell us they’re also really excited to welcome David Bradshaw and Mark Holmes who will be making their Mixology debuts.

Expect a plethora of tech-house bombs to reverberate around Red Room on Friday January 27. It’s one not to be missed!

SOUL AND MOTOWN NIGHTS If you’re a fan of soul tunes don’t forget the monthly The Soul Lounge gigs at the Three Horseshoes in Werrington with Skip Stuart and friends keeping you dancing on Saturday January 7.

Then it’s a Motown vibe at the pub from the Soul Lounge crew on Saturday January 21.

Following the huge success of October’s Halloween events, and by popular demand the Great Nights team are back with another soul, Motown and disco night out.

Head over to the Ivy Leaf Club on Saturday February 11 for this 60's / 70's Motown themed night. Dig out the mini skirts and flares and get set to party.

Fancy dress for the occasion is completely optional, but prizes on the night will be given for the best dressed male and female.

The music policy remains the same, soul, Motown and disco from the 60's, 70's and the 80's featuring well known local DJ's Ian Gray, John Bradley and Andy Coulson.

There’ll be food, real ale and cocktails and tickets will be on sale from January 21 priced £6 in advance from Larry’s Heel Bar on Broad Street in Whittlesey and The Ivy Leaf Club or by phone from Andy on 07941 629660.

They’ll be £8 on the door.

NEW SOULFUL HOUSE SESSIONS It’s always good to see some new nights on the scene and Saturdays have seen the Broadway stretch welcome a fresh Saturday flavour.

Well known local DJ Russell James is hitting the decks with a brand new session at Ba Shoh restaurant on Broadway.

Saturdays from 10.30pm he’s playing out soulful house in the bar. To help get you in the mood there are drinks offers including buy one cocktail get one half price and a free shooter with any sparkling cocktail.

SATURDAY NIGHTS @ THE BREWERY TAP Party season is over but it’s time to get back into your groove folks.

It’s free entry and the beers are a good price so there’s no excuse for not hitting the dancefloor at the Brewery Tap this month!

The Saturday Night Groove sessions are all scheduled in for January 7, 14 and 21. Resident DJ Rick Allen will be playing out a great selection of hits from the 70s to the present day, accompanied by videos on the large screen. It all kicks off from 9pm – late. Free entry.

On Saturday January 28 there’s a different face on the decks at the Tap but still plenty of good tunes with a local legend! Don’t miss The Get Down with DJ Eddie Nash from 9pm – late and again it’s free entry.

WANTED: ESP NIGHTLIFE REPORTER! Do you love to socialise, get out and about regularly in Peterborough and Stamford, and like letting everyone else know where’s good to go?

We’re looking for someone to report on the nightlife news for ESP each month which may mean you’d need to try out some events and venues you wouldn’t normally head to.

We need you to reflect the various nights out, best places to go, what the DJs like to play, where to dance, drink and eat and also be happy to feature in ESP. If you fancy taking on this volunteer writing 44 www.espmag.co.uk

opportunity for Peterborough’s premier magazine and have some fresh ideas, apply by email to the editor on sharon.mcallister@espmag.co.uk explaining why you’re the night owl we’re looking for.

Good times and good reporting require good behaviour though, so please don’t apply if you’re a party animal who doesn’t know their limits when they’re out on the town!

The ESP Sales Survival Guide If you’ve received gift cards or a few quid from Gran ‘to buy something nice’ you’ll be itching to hit the local sales to snap up a bargain and a new look.

ESP’s style guru Sue Donnelly knows a thing or two about shopping for clothes so follow Sue’s top tips and you’ll be bagging a real bargain…

It’s that time of year again when all your unwanted presents go back to the shops and you’re assailed by ‘bargains’ that you just can’t do without.

But don’t be fooled by all the savings you’re going to make. Many of us buy sale items only to find them hanging unworn in the closet the following year. There’s always a reason why the store wants an item to go from its rails and it’s never because it’s a ‘must-have’.

To help you find a true gem, here are some of my top tips: •

Don’t go to the sales without a shopping list and a budget (that you will stick to of course!)

•

If it’s really trendy, you’ll need to wear it immediately as it won’t be cool six months from now.

•

It must fit properly. A garment will look cheap if it doesn’t hang properly.

•

Do your research beforehand and check out what you want to buy and make a bee-line for it on sales day (with no departures). If you know the sales assistant in the store, see if they can sneakily put it on one side for you – always worth asking, even if the answer is ‘no’.

•

OR wear it in small chunks

•

•

To initiated fashionistas and followers of labels, an ‘It’ bag or gadget is only ‘It’ when it’s that season’s ‘must-have’. If it’s last season’s it’s no longer ‘It’ therefore decreases in status and financial value.

Only buy it if you love it and don’t care.

If you find the perfect shirt, trousers, jeans – buy two.

A classic garment that will stand the test of time is a great bargain to find but make sure it is ‘classic’ and not ‘dated’.

•

•

Only buy it if you know for sure it will go with other items in your existing wardrobe.

•

Don’t trust size labels, as the best bargains I’ve ever bought were garments sized incorrectly.

•

Check any refund policies in the store before you buy.

•

Too much hassle? Check online as sale dates are often two or three days earlier.

•

Lastly, wear comfy clothing and shoes and minimal accessories so you don’t waste time in changing rooms and your feet don’t get sore from running around. Wear the right underwear and carry heels with you if needs be.

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Our showroom premises are a beautiful 15th century manor house, located in the historic market town of Whittlesey, Cambridgeshire (5 miles east of Peterborough) where we offer our customers a friendly, relaxed personal service, with the finest demonstration facilities.

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Demonstrations by appointment. Home demonstrations also available.

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Mostly Funny Funny Mostly

COMEDY GIGS

“The page that says for the sake of Auld Lang Syne my New Year’s resolution is to learn all the words to it in time for next New Year’s Eve.”

THE ULTIMATE FILM FOR THE NEW YEAR Over the years I've stood around Christmas trees of varying quality, booed when the actor who played Martin Fowler turned on the lights shortly after he'd killed Jamie Mitchell in Eastenders, and sat eating takeaway food with a stand-up comedian who's appearing in panto this year on the South Coast with Dick, from 'Dick & Dom in da Bungalow'. All memorable moments that I wouldn't change for the world. However, THE BEST thing that has ever happened in Cathedral Square has surely got to be the day a replica of the Ecto1 Cadillac Miller-Meteor from Ghostbusters 2 rocked up in Cathedral Square. It happened during the summer to promote a car insurance firm, but it's the perfect way to promote why everyone should be watching Ghostbusters 2 this New Year to cheer themselves up because it is without a doubt the best film around New Year that's ever been made. Watch it and re-watch it to remind yourself what this time of year is all about.

Meanwhile the vehicle above can be hired for special events such as weddings, birthdays and anniversaries from: www.ghostbusterscarhire.co.uk and I want to see this vehicle BACK IN PETERBOROUGH next year, so if you do hire it, be sure to let me know!

17 JAN

steve.gonzalez@espmag.co.uk

Taken at Peterborough's Odeon cinema over the Christmas/New Year period of 1989/90 it features some of the original staff in the foyer who were on duty when Ghostbusters II (1989) was first shown in the city. From left to right.

Margaret Jacobs, Pauline Tutton, Helen Cave and Shirley Bream.

In our July issue you may remember ESP tracked down one of the Odeon's longest serving managers, Michael Turner, who told us some great stories of his time at the cinema between 1976-1989. Ghostbusters II was spookily one of the last films he programmed in to be shown in Peterborough before he left to take over the Odeon, Ipswich!

After seeing the article, Helen Cave who worked during Turner's tenure got in touch with us.

Sadly, Margaret and Shirley pictured in the photo have both since passed away, but Helen is hoping someone may remember Pauline Tutton who she believes may still live locally or have family or friends who remember her?

Helen worked at the Odeon for about 10 years and left a year or so before it closed, but is hoping to arrange a reunion of staff for Saturday September 2 to coincide with a Film Music Gala at The Broadway Theatre with the BBC Concert Orchestra, Peterborough Male Voice Choir, Youth Choir and Peterborough Voices. That date will be exactly 80 years since the building first opened as the Odeon cinema prior to becoming a theatre in the noughties.

A PINT OF COMEDY

The regular comedy night continues in the Cellar Bar at Stamford Arts Centre with another great line up from 8pm.

Check website for details of who’s appearing this month www.stamfordartscentre.com or call 01780 763203.

29 JAN

TAPE FACE

The show the world can’t stop talking about. This is stand-up comedy with no talking, drama with no acting and punch lines with no words.

The artist formerly known as The Boy with Tape on His Face is coming to the Key Theatre with a bigger, brighter and more spectacular re-imagining of his unique and special brand of silent comedy.

Tickets are £17, or £15 concessions on 01733 207239.

3 FEB

KEY COMEDY NIGHT

The Key Theatre Comedy Nights return next month with headliner Adam Kay with his piano and array of funny songs. He’s the frontman of Amateur Transplants, with over 20 million YouTube hits (including the iconic London Underground Song) and a regular sell out show at Edinburgh.

Support comes from Phil Jerrod (fresh from supporting Romesh Ranganathan), Sunil Patel and MC Ian Smith.

Tickets are £10 in advance on 01733 207239 or £12 on the door.

3 FEB

FUNHOUSE COMEDY SPALDING

THE GLAMOROUS GHOSTBUSTER GIRLS! In a year where the new 2016 Ghostbusters film divided fans opinion, here's one photo that I'm sure fans of the original two films from the 1980s will appreciate.

46 www.espmag.co.uk

Another night of top comedy comes to the South Holland Centre with headliner Steve Royle – an incredible all-round entertainer who appeared in Peter Kay's Phoenix Nights. Also on the bill is Bryan Lacey, a potential comedy star of the future according to BBC6 Music; genius deadpan funnyman Patrick Draper; and keeping everything flowing is runner-up English Comedian of the Year 2015, compere Scott Bennett.

Any old Odeon staff interested in being reunited at their former home can get in touch with Helen via ESP Magazine, so please email office@espmag.co.uk or call us on 01733 381266.

Tickets £10 in advance on 01775 764777 or £12.50 on the door.

Advertise here from just

£50.00 +vat per month

Tel: 01733 381266 Email: emma.suckow@espmag.co.uk Opening times: Mon-Thu 9am-5pm, Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 8am-4pm (Friday appointments only 6.15pm-8pm)

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For even more news and events, check out our website

www.espmag.co.uk

For up to date stories and what’s on like us on Facebook or follow us on twitter @espmagazine /espmagazine

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keith.dalton@espmag.co.uk

Keith Dalton has the ESP guide to the best news and views from the local live music scene…

THE RISE AND RISE OF

OPEN MIC NIGHTS

If you’re a budding singer/musician, but don’t know where to get some exposure, then why not make a New Year’s resolution to attend an open mic night.

The Peterborough area is booming with venues that are putting on open mic nights, and I’ve listed a few here. I would check out with the venue when the open nights recommence in the New Year, but they all provide an ideal place for you to meet like minded people who either want to showcase their music or listen to local talent.

If you’re looking for an early evening session then the Lounge Bar at the South Holland Centre in Spalding has an Acoustic Café on Wednesday January 25 at 6pm. They tell me it’s a relaxed, free music gig organised by Youth Takeover and the sessions are mini music gigs where young musicians try out new material on a friendly audience in the bar.

David Bailey Here are just a few you could try…

Charters, Town Bridge – Open Mic Night Monday January 16 at 8pm. Monthly.

The Met Lounge, Bridge Street – Open Mic every Wednesday.

The Key Theatre Glasshouse Acoustic sessions – Sunday January 29, Poor Boy / Steve Gibbs / Coyote Calling. Monthly.

The Peacock, London Road – third Thursday of every month.

The Ploughman, Werrington – second Tuesday of every month.

Cherry Tree, Woodston Most of the gigs are for new and established musicians and bands that play predominantly acoustic instruments. So what are the benefits?

ESP asked David Bailey well known as a regular organiser of local acoustic and open mic gigs. He told me – “The rise in popularity of the area’s open mics has seen a number of new performers/emerging talent across age ranges and genres. As for quality we have an age range of 8 - 80 and abilities from zero to hero, but they all improve and everyone who has attended more than once has shown improvement in confidence and ability.”

I imagine it can be quite daunting to perform.

Can it compare with some Comedy Club night audiences?

Voodoo Lounge, Stamford – unplugged acoustic sessions most Thursdays.

Mama Liz’s, Stamford

Brewery Tap, Westgate – first Sunday of every month.

The Millstone in Barnack – Open Mic night every first Tuesday of the month.

The Boat Inn, Ramsey Road, Whittlesey – third Tuesday of the month. Powered Open Mic with small PA and acoustic guitar amp, 8.45pm.

The Boat Inn Ramsey Road Whittlesey – Last Friday of the month. Acoustic session in the Whisky Bar, 8.30pm.

The Railway, Ramsey – second and fourth Wednesday each month.

48 www.espmag.co.uk

and non performers will have the ability to see raw and new talent so a win win situation all round.”

So do we need more venues for acoustic and open mic?

Paul Biggins who runs the Glasshouse Accoustic sessions at The Key Theatre told us – “Yes. We've just lost the Cherry Tree, but gained the Pizza House & Music Cafe. Open mic is a really important platform for new artists to learn their skills, and for auditioning for bigger events where they'll get greater exposure.”

There’s a word of warning, however, from Paul to potential organisers! “Venues and organisers of new events need to look around at what's on and not duplicate existing events, otherwise we spread the audiences too thin on those nights, whilst other nights, there’s nothing on.”

The Boat Inn, Whittlesey “Not really,” says Dave. “The Muso scene (performers and organisers) tend to be a supportive and helpful bunch and people new to performing should give the local open mic a go as they will get constructive advice

Dave agrees – “Performers are torn between new locations and known venues, the increase in events has brought about a small amount of OM fatigue – too many on the same day in the same location or the same week.”

One thing that we all agree about is that there is an incredible amount of untapped talented musicians in this area and the process of discovering them is wholly enhanced by open mic nights.

To all those who entertain us throughout the year and to the organisers who put the gigs on, I wish you a Happy New Year.

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FENECH-SOLER ANNOUCE TOUR

Photo: Tim Steele @ Studio One

Fenech-Soler have revealed details of their upcoming 2017 headline tour, including dates in the UK, mainland Europe but starting with some very exciting American gigs in New York and Los Angeles. The band, who originate from Oundle, will release their third album ZILLA in early February on So Recordings. The new album heralds a thrilling new chapter for Fenech-Soler, now a duo comprising brothers Ben and Ross Duffy. And the tour dates coincide with the album release. The album title is named after a close friend – and is full of positive and upbeat pop songs.

Kaleidoscope, the opening track on the recent Kaleidoscope EP, was premiered by Huw Stephens on Radio 1 who described it as, “3:39 of pure joy.”

Sadly there are no local dates on the tour, the nearest venue being Nottingham Stealth on March 4. But that’s the price of local talent making an impact on the international music scene!

To see full ZILLA tour dates go to www.facebook.com/fenechsoler.

NEW ALBUM FROM CLASSICAL REFLECTION My Editor tells me she recently enjoyed a stunning performance by local sisters Naomi and Hannah Moxon better known as Classical Reflection. The girls are identical twins who are Sopranos and they were a hit with judge Ricky Wilson on The Voice when they sang Nella Fantasia on the TV show.

I’ve also had the pleasure of seeing them at The Mayor’s Ball a few years ago and their voices and appearance are enchanting. So it’s good news from Classical Reflection as they have told me they’re planning an album release early in the first half of 2017. The album is being recorded at Peterborough Cathedral in an evening with Ely Sinfonia Orchestra, Adrian Sutcliffe as MD who is a West End musical director, and with David Leighton as sound engineer.

The album is going to have an uplifting feel to the song choices, with some big orchestral film scores and stripped back acoustic classical tracks.

They’re having a big album launch concert in May in Peterborough Cathedral where it will be a first look/listen to the album and Naomi and Hannah will be joined by some very special guests. They tell me it’s going to be their biggest concert yet and they are very excited about it!

"As we are local in Peterborough we really wanted to use local talent to record our next album, we are really delighted we can record in Peterborough Cathedral it has beautiful acoustics to sing with and we can't wait to get started."

I’ll keep you up to date with the recording progress of the album and its release in future months of ESP.

NEWMARKET NIGHTS ANNOUNCE A HOT SUMMER OF GIGS At the start of the year it’s always good to have a few things in the pipeline to look forward to and 2017 is already shaping up to be great music wise with early announcements of two fantastic acts appearing close to home.

Newmarket Racecourses and The Jockey Club Live revealed the first two names for their summer Newmarket Nights concert series are none other than Olly Murs – who proved a huge draw at his Embankment gig a while back – and another ESP favourite, Jess Glynne.

You can catch the cheeky ‘Troublemaker’ Olly Murs headlining Newmarket Nights on August 18 closely followed by the lovely Jess Glynne on August 26.

Since Olly shot to fame on the X Factor in 2009, he’s crafted four multiplatinum albums and produced four number 1 singles with total record sales exceeding 10 million. His latest studio album 24 HRS has became his fourth consecutive LP to reach the top spot on the UK charts, becoming the most successful solo artist ever to come from the X Factor.

Olly said: “I'm really looking forward to playing Newmarket Racecourse next summer, it'll be one of the first chances I'll get to play tracks from 24 HRS in the sunshine so will be a special show to share with my fans. I love a day out at the races too so can't wait to get in the crowd during the day to place a cheeky bet...”

Due to overwhelming demand for her sold out show in 2016, Newmarket Nights and The Jockey Club Live have been excited to sign up the hugely talented Jess Glynne for a return visit this summer.

First coming into the public consciousness as the vocalist on Clean Bandit’s Grammy Award winning and #1 hit Rather Be; pop sensation Jess Glynne has since become one of the biggest UK breakthrough acts of recent years.

2016 was a massive year for Jess, with a sold-out UK arena tour under her belt plus she was nominated for British Breakthrough Act, British Female Solo Artist and British Single for Hold My Hand at 2016’s prestigious Brit Awards as well as being nominated at the recent BBC Music Awards.

Jess said: “It’s going to be great fun playing Newmarket Racecourse on 26th August after the races. My show there in the summer was one of my highlights as the fans were so amazing; I can’t wait to come back!”

The 2016 season included Little Mix, Tears For Fears, Mark Ronson and the Kaiser Chiefs at the Adnams July Course, collectively playing to over 100,000 fans. We’ll keep you posted as further acts are announced for this year – bring on the summer!

Tickets for both gigs are on sale now via www.thejockeyclublive.co.uk www.espmag.co.uk

49

The Peacock Peterborough

Proudly sponsored by

GUIDE

26 London Road, Peterborough PE2 8AR

T: 01733 311829 E: Thepeacock1@btinternet.com • Sun – Wed, 12 noon – 11pm • Thursday, 10.30am – Midnight • Friday, 12 noon – late • Saturday, 10am – late

If you wanna get your gigs in ESP for free, e-mail:

gigs@espmag.co.uk THU DEC 22

WED DEC 28

THE SKYLINERS TICKETED EVENT

MON JAN 9

ROB AND DAVE 3PM

OUTLAW EAGLES

Charters, Town Bridge

The Dragon, Werrington

CHEZ AND LEE

ACOUSTIC SESSIONS WITH THE BOATMEN

Ex Service and Working Mens Club, Fletton

OLD DOG JACKSON (AKA DR.A)

The Railway, Ramsey

The Pizza and Music Cafe, Cowgate

TUE JAN 17

THE DEPS

TRUE BRITISH MAYHEM

THE OVERDUBS

FRI DEC 30

The Centurion Club, Somersham

TUE JAN 10

OPEN MIC NIGHT WITH DAVE AND PHIL

VELOCITY TICKET ONLY

The Boat Inn, Whittlesey

DAVE SMITH

WHISKEY BAR ACOUSTIC SESSIONS WITH THE BOATMEN

Rose and Crown, Oundle

FRI DEC 23 AUDIO The London Inn, Stamford

CAPTAIN OBVIOUS The Punchbowl, Spalding

DIVERGENT Mama Liz's, Stamford

GLAM FLAM GLITZ AMF Bowling Alley, Bretton

HIGH ROLLERS Charters, Town Bridge

HUSH The Railway, Ramsey

JESSIES GHOST The Burghley Club, Burghley Road

The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

HI ON MAIDENS CHRISTMAS SHOW The Met Lounge, Bridge Street The Punchbowl, Spalding

MARK BISHOP

The Millstone, Barnack

The Peacock, Woodston

THU JAN 5

LEFTOVAS

WHISKEY BAR ACOUSTIC SESSIONS WITH THE BOATMEN The Boat Inn, Whittlesey

SAT DEC 31

The Crown, Lincoln Road

ANOTHER GIRL ANOTHER PLANET

The Golden Fleece, Stamford

MARCH TO THE GRAVE The Railway Inn, Oakham

MEG MCPARTLIN The Peacock, London Road

NEW GENERATION CRASH AND BURN The Ploughman, Werrington

OLD DOG JACKSON (AKA DR.A) The Bell Inn, Sawtry

The Ploughman, Werrington

WED JAN 11 BACKROOM ACOUSTIC WITH THE BOATMEN The Railway, Bourne

OPEN MIC NIGHT Rose and Crown, Oundle

VOODOO ACOUSTIC WITH DAVE AND STEVE

The Crown, Lincoln Road

COSMIC RODNEY

CAUSTIC LIGHTS PRIVATE NYE PARTY

3 PARTS DIRT

MISCELLANEOUS

The Duck and Drake, Yaxley

The Golden Fleece, Stamford

ALL SHOOK UP

THE RETURNS

DIZZY MISS LIZZY TICKETED EVENT The Burghley Club, Burghley Road

ELECTRIC WARRIORS

RETROLUX The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

FRENZY TICKETED EVENT The Old Coach House, Market Deeping

GROOVE CARTELL

Charters, Town Bridge

The Peacock, London Road

The Crown, Lincoln Road

BROTHERHOODS ROUNDABOUT

TIGER CLUB

The Crown, Lincoln Road

CJ HATT The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

CUTTIN LOOSE The Mason's Arms, Bourne

The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

VOODOO LOUNGE WITH EVEREST QUEEN, THE DARKHORSE AND TBC Mama Liz's, Stamford

SUBWAY 77

SAT JAN 14

The Golden Fleece, Stamford

CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION

HUSH - NEW YEARS EVE SPECIAL

CAUSTIC LIGHTS

The Crown, Lincoln Road

The George and Dragon, Raunds

The Crown, Lincoln Road

GO WITH THE FLOW

INDIGO

DIRTY RUMOURS The Golden Fleece, Stamford

The Golden Fleece, Stamford

Charters, Town Bridge

MON DEC 26 LEFTOVAS Late Bar, Bourne

RAMSHACKLE SERENADE

LEON

FORTY FIVER

50 www.espmag.co.uk

The Crown, Lincoln Road

CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION

SAT JAN 21

The Golden Fleece, Stamford

DEMONISER

Charters, Town Bridge

DEVILS MOJO

The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

The Heron, Stanground

OCCUPY

The Peacock, London Road

Mama Liz's, Stamford

THE HIGH ROLLERS

OUTSIDE IN

The Bluebell Inn, Dogsthorpe

The Golden Fleece, Stamford

ROCKET'57 The Crown, Lincoln Road

VELOCITY Charters, Town Bridge

MISTABEAT

TRUE BRITISH MAYHEM Centurion Club, Somersham

VELOCITY

SUN JAN 22

Thorney Ex Service Mens Club, Thorney

PALMERSTON UKELELE BAND

SUN JAN 29

Charters, Town Bridge

South Holland Centre, Spalding

BACKROOM ACOUSTIC WITH THE BOATMEN

FRUMENTY 4PM Mama Liz's, Stamford

GLASSHOUSE ACOUSTIC WITH STEVE GIBBS The Key Theatre, Embankment

JIMMY DOHERTY

The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

LEFTOVAS The Mason Arms, Bourne

SUN JAN 8

THE DEPTHS

FRI JAN 27

The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION

SAT FEB 4

The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

CUTTIN LOOSE

OPEN MIC NIGHT

The Seven Wives, St Ives

TIGER CLUB

John Clare Cottage, Helpston

THE FEDZNEW YEARS EVE TICKETED EVENT

The Brewery Tap, Westgate

BLACKJACK

OPEN MIC

TRUE BRITISH MAYHEM

HUSH

The Crown, Lincoln Road

The Golden Fleece, Stamford

The Three Horseshoes, Werrington

AGI JAROCKA

THE NUGGETS TICKETED EVENT

ABBALARF ABBA TRIBUTE

The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

Rippingale Village Hall, Rippingale

TUE DEC 27

The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

FRI FEB 3

PARK LANE

The Ploughman, Werrington

3RD STONE FROM THE SUN

THU JAN 26

MIND THE GAP

ROCKET '57 TICKETED EVENT

SAT JAN 28

Charters, Town Bridge

PENNYLESS The Angel Hotel, Bourne

The Boat Inn, Whittlesey

The Railway, Ramsey

MOLLY'S CHAMBER

REVOLVER

The Ploughman, Werrington

Ebeneezers, Woodston

The Ploughman, Werrington

The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

The Crown, Lincoln Road

GRUMPY OLD MEN

The Pear Tree Bar, Stamford Smith's, Bourne

Cellar Bar, Stamford Arts Centre

ACOUSTIC CAFÉ

The Golden Fleece, Stamford

TIGER CLUB

The Mason's Arms, Bourne

FORTY FIVER

SAT JAN 7

The Stage, Market Deeping

LEFTOVAS

WED JAN 25

Charters, Town Bridge

The Ploughman, Werrington

Charters, Town Bridge

The New Crown, Whittlesey

BLANE THE ONE EYED CATS

BIANCA AND THE TOP CATS

THE DETOURS

FRI JAN 6

The Ostrich Inn, North Street

The Peacock, London Road

OPEN MIC NIGHT WITH JAMES EDMONDS

The Crown, Lincoln Road

CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION TICKETED EVENT

BECCA RAYNER

LIVE MUSIC

FRI JAN 13

The Peacock, London Road

FRI JAN 20

THU JAN 12

Mama Liz's, Stamford

The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

SAT DEC 24

TUE JAN 3 MILLSTONE ACOUSTIC WITH CLAUDE DOMINO

JOHNNY CASH TRIBUTE JUST FOR KICKS

The Fayre Spot, Bretton

OPEN MIC NIGHT WITH STACEY

The Fayre Spot, Bretton

Charters, Town Bridge The Brewery Tap, Westgate

The Peacock, London Road

THE STRAW BEAR AFTER PARTY WITH HOLLY AND THE BOATMEN The Falcon Hotel, Whittlesey

RETROLUX

Charters, Town Bridge

The Swiss Cottage, Woodston

EASIER SAID

SUN JAN 15

HAYZ

JOSH NEWMAN

Mama Liz's, Stamford

The Peacock, London Road

TRUE BRITISH MAYHEM

BIANCA AND THE TOP CATS 4PM

The Golden Fleece, Stamford

JINX'D

The Bluebell Inn, Dogsthorpe

PENNYLESS

The Lime Tree, Walton

Mama Liz's, Stamford

The Crown, Lincoln Road

THE GUARDS