Niche Magazine Issue 4

Fa s h i o n

B u s i n e s s

H e a l t h

Fo o d

Trave l

NICHE magazine Issue 4

College Court The perfect conferencing venue!

Gentleman’s Corner Our recommendations on gifts for Dads!

summer Essentials!

Must-have items you can’t be without this summer

Looking into cosmetic surgery ?

Get the Nuffield Treatment If you know you want to change the way you look, you may want to take the first step. Come in and tell us your plans at Nuffield Health Leicester Hospital.

We’ll listen and help you decide on the best way to get the results that you want, with the same consultant all the way through. So when you’re ready for the new you, talk to us.

For further infomation contact: 2

2

0116 2983241 Nuffield Health Leicester Hospital Scraptoft Lane, Leicester LE5 1HY

nuffieldhealth.com/leicesterhospital

*Not including private patient units at NHS hospitals. Local area defined as within 15 miles of the Nuffield Health hospital. We will match against written quotes only. Promise is valid for patients paying for themselves. **Where possible, we promise to assist you to receive any follow up advice, treatment or care that is clinically required from your Consultant for as long as you may require it. If a prosthesis is used as part of your treatment this is guaranteed for the manufacturer’s official lifetime of that prosthesis. “Clinically required” indicates where further intervention and/or monitoring of a patient’s condition is deemed necessary as a direct result of surgical intervention.

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Contents 04. Shop local

There are some really great shopping areas in Leicester as well as the fabulous shopping mecca that is the Highcross. We love the new Silver Arcade, The Lanes, Stoneygate and St Martins Square to name a few. All offer a great selection of independent shops, bars and eateries.

18. Gentleman’s Corner

We don’t like to leave the chaps out at Niche and this issue is no exception, take a look at our Gentleman’s Corner feature and find lots of lovely gentlemanly things!

22. Summer Essentials

With the change in season comes a new excuse for a new wardrobe (hurrah!) take a look at our \Summer Essentials section for sunny inspirations.

30. Get Fit For Summer

With thoughts of beachwear and holidays right around the corner it’s time to get fit for summer! We have found some great local personal trainers to help you do just that.

44. Wedding Belles

We love a good wedding here at Niche! Take a look at some of our recommended suppliers and service to help take the stress out of planning.

61. A Room With a View

As the weather is slowly getting better our thoughts turn to our outside spaces, make the most of yours by hiring Chrysalis Interiors to assist.

Beulah Home

84. Talk Business

Let’s talk business. Or at least let’s show you some great businesses right here in Leicester. It’s worth noting that Leicester has some great conferencing facilities and networks too, so we did!

Company Director: Jenny Cross - jenny@crossproductions.co.uk - 0116 2712573 Editor: Sally Smith - sally@crossproductions.co.uk - 0116 2712573 Head of Operations: Leanne Baker - leanne@crossproductions.co.uk - 0116 2712753 Design: Rachael Bambrough - design@crossproductions.co.uk Editorial Director: Emily Kirton - editorials@crossproductions.co.uk - 07944116816 Postal Address: Cross Productions, 17 Mandervell Road, Oadby, Leicester, LE2 5LR Distribution: Media Matters Direct - www.mediamattersdirect.co.uk www.nichemagazine.co.uk

Published by: Cross Productions Ltd

Email: info@crossproductions.co.uk Telephone: 0116 2712573

NICHE 03

Stoneygate Do you ever tire of shopping in the old big named high street stores? Often stocking similar items to the next shop with masses of people, it’s easy to become disheartened with a day out at the shops.

However, here in Leicester we are lucky enough to have an alternative that feels like an altogether more satisfying and enjoyable shopping experience. Stoneygate is a lovely leafy shopping suburb of Leicester and it’s in one of our most beautiful areas; it’s a shopping experience that will have you returning time and time again. A wonderful area to shop in with its lovely boutiques and independent shops at any time of the year buying locally and from independent shops not only earns you serious eco points but you will also find an array of unique and interesting items too.

A virtually stress free experience, you can wander the shops and buy items for friends, family or yourself that they will truly love and feel virtuous all at once!

Not only will you have a nice relaxing shopping experience, you will be finding unique gifts, beauty essentials and pieces for your home all whilst supporting local business too - what’s not to love?

Home to some lovely beauty salons and hairdressers, it’s fast becoming a mecca for those that love a pampering too. Lunch is a great experience in Stoneygate with a wealth of choice when it comes to fine eateries and yet why not extend your shopping visit to an evening out in one of the relaxing yet lively bars?

Sure, internet shopping has its place but with Stoneygate allowing for browsing to your heart’s content, combined with the infamous Stoneygate friendly hospitality and excellent customer service and beautiful surroundings - it’s simply how shopping should be….

Keep up to date with the latest Stoneygate happenings at www.stoneygateshopping.blogspot.co.uk

Pollys For gifts and fashions that show you have put in that extra care, discover the wide range of luxurious fashionable goods at Polly’s.

Abiti Ladieswear would love to share with you our boutique experience including handpicked items from Danish, French and English designer labels.

We are pleased to announce the new arrival of Marie&sixtine brand and New Footwear collections including Ash, Elia B and Bensimon… another new addition will be following in a weeks time with a Brand Called Stan & Frankie sterling silver jewellery which is not to be missed and more importantly is made in our home town of Leicester.

Abiti Ladieswear have got their first birthday approaching and are ready to celebrate by hosting a party with all our loyal customers, at the store and sharing with them the chance to win lots of prizes.....with the first prize being a holiday apartment, all paid for a week in Portugal…so follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more information.

www.Abiti-Ladieswear.co.uk Facebook: Abiti Ladieswear 21 Francis Street, Stoneygate, Leicester LE2 2BE

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Find the welcoming boutique at: No. 15 Francis Street Online: www.pollysonline.co.uk

Elegant Designer Clothing at Valentina In the heart of Allandale Road, Stoneygate lies the most exclusive privately owned designer clothing boutique; Valentina. Specialising in elegant clothing for women of all ages and sizes in Leicestershire and beyond, Valentina are renowned for their welcoming and friendly service as well as a passion for clothing and attention to detail. A boutique which is home to designer collections from all over the world you will find celebrity inspired pieces and classic designs from the likes of Versace, Karl Lagerfeld, Elisa Cavaletti, Luisa Cerano, Luis Civit, Crea, Bourne shoes, also Versace handbags and shoes as well as so much more.

Assisting you in create a lasting, high quality wardrobe from season to season whatever the occasion from casual wear, business attire, special occasion wear including mother of the bride ( with accessories to complement), evening wear, hats, through to those all-important shoes and matching handbags, Valentina’s mission is to make women feel beautiful, feminine, and confident.

They would like to welcome you to drop in or make a personalised appointment 6 days a week from 9am. to 5:30pm. www.valentinaleicester.co.uk 0116 270 2555

NICHE 05

Silver Arcade The development of The Silver Arcade in Leicester has caused quite a stir in Leicester amongst shoppers and architect enthusiasts alike, it’s new shops and restaurant offer the perfect accompaniment and alternatives to the array of the UK’s best high street shops now in The Highcross.

‘The Silver Arcade’, located at the heart of Leicester city’s retail centre was built in the 19th century by a famous local architect ‘Mr Amos Hall’ and first opened for business in 1899. It housed shops, offices and showrooms and Hall’s vision produced a building that was original, innovative and second to none, one of two arcades in the UK that rise through 4 storey. The building has recently undergone a £3 million full refurbishment project which has incorporated contemporary features skilfully blended with the original grand Victorian architecture delivering a spacious light filled retail environment. The Silver Arcade is now home to beauty treatments from the likes of Hair and Booty and City Laser and Skin Clinic, delicious confectionary from Coco Amore and deli delights from Deli Flavour. Continuing on the food theme The Atrium provides freshly prepared foods from the majestic top floor! Boutique shopping is taken care of by the likes of Divine for your formal prom and event wear, First Look for European sophistication, Nomadco for the stylish gentleman and Secret Boudoir for the flirty females. A trip to The Silver Arcade will have you shopping the independents at leisure in a welcoming and friendly environment.

An exciting mix of boutique shopping, world class eating and luxurious pampering now makes up the unique and stylish Silver Arcade, take a visit and discover just why everyone around is raving about our city’s newest shopping mecca!

Open Mon-Sat 9am-6pm and Sun 10.30am – 4pm

Divine Boutique

An exclusive boutique specialising in Fabulous Frocks and Gorgeous Gowns situated in the newly renovated Silver Arcade, Leicester.

01162 516924 06

www.divineladieswear.co.uk

www.divineladieswear.co.uk

The Atrium for fresh food, atmosphere and attitudes You can tell when you visit a restaurant within

A menu which is the result of the brother’s

appreciate what goes into each area, meaning

seconds if it’s a good one or not, in our humble

commitment to bringing the best to your plate

the waiting staff know the food they are serving

opinion, your initial interaction with the staff, a

uses local, seasonal ingredients of which a

and the chef’s know the environment in which

glance at the menu and a perusal of the space

majority are purchased at Leicester’s renowned

their food is served! You can feel this working

itself tells you a lot about what you are about

local market. Refreshingly fresh and properly

and it works very well indeed with this open

to eat and whether or not you will be back for

local, the brothers create menu’s together

environment further echoed in the open

more. The Atrium, located on the top floor of the

which you will love and the team adopt the rare

view kitchen.

stunning and newly renovated Grade II listed

philosophy that even allows the customer to

Silver Arcade, is a restaurant that is making

change dishes to their taste requesting different

The space is perfect boasting great views and

a name for itself as the must visit new and

sauces, or asking to omit certain ingredients

plenty of light and positivity, it’s ideal for all

exciting restaurant in Leicester. Ticking all the

from their menu choice! This open and

occasions, whether for breakfast with friends,

positive first impression boxes, The Atrium is

changeable attitude is a rare form of customer

a Sunday roast with the family or a romantic

impressive from the word go. From its friendly

service which shows The Atrium’s commitment

evening meal for two it will, put simply, never

and relaxed yet professional staff through to its

to giving their customers a meal they truly

disappoint, we haven’t been so far and are

mouth-watering menu and WOW factor décor

enjoy made from scratch every single time. The

confident you won’t be too. So get there quick,

it screams an authenticity and passion from its

concise yet changing menu is testament to the

visit Leicestershire’s newest and coolest foodie

creators that makes you keep coming back for

passion and drive the team have to giving you

addition that has got the city buzzing.

more. A family run business and a tale of blood

fresh, exciting foods in real portions for real

sweat and tears for three brothers who quit it all

prices. This skill for providing what the customer

www.the-atrium.co.uk

to create a restaurant of their dreams (and of

wants echoes the driving ethos behind the place

0116 380 0510

us Leicester folk in the process!) it’s a success

and the attitude adopted by every member of

The Atrium

story that just keeps getting better.

staff; whether front or back of house with each

3rd Floor, Sliver Arcade

team member spending time in both locations to

Leicester, LE1 5ET

NICHE 07

Leicester Leicester is fast becoming one of the UK’s finest places to shop till you drop, with many corners of the City providing alternative pockets of shopping the independents, our high street is once again buzzing with excitement. Here is our mini guide to shopping and eating in the independents of our great city…

The Cultural Quarter Leicester’s Cultural Quarter is the creative hub of the city, an area steeped in history and an ever emerging vibrant future; it’s one of our favourite parts of the city and with so much going on its no wonder! With The Curve and Phoenix Square taking care of the entertainment and the art galleries providing the sale of their wares there is plenty to do in this bustling high energy part of town.

Award winning restaurants causing a culinary stir in the area include Niche favourites Chutney Ivy, whilst the newly-opened Ramada Encore Hotel provides visitors with a great base from which to explore the city.

The Lanes and St Martins Square Situated near to the Historic Quarter of the city both The Lanes and St Martin’s Square offer up a bevy of great independent outlets, high end jewellers, clothing boutiques and home designs, plus for when you are all shopped out there are a great mix of cafes and bars.

So, has our little guide inspired you to explore a little further when it comes to parting with your pennies in the city? We hope so!

Open 8.30am-5.50pm Mon-Sat

Unique vintage hand-painted furniture & a passion for period style Annie Sloan Stockists & Trainers • Cards & Wrap • Clocks • Decorative • Furniture • Gifts • Kitchen & Dining • Lighting • Mirrors • Room Scents • Soft Furnishings • Tableware • Client Commissions • Workshops • Sourcing & Soft Furnishing Make-Up Services

10 Loseby Lane, Leicester, LE1 5DR 0116 2620573 www.pomponette.co.uk

Newmans

Good honest food in the heart of Leicester A visit to Newmans means quick service, fresh, delicious homemade food; all day menu, a friendly welcome and a warm atmosphere, what more could you want?

An independent restaurant in the heart of Leicester’s thriving city centre, Newmans is the ideal location to start your day with breakfast, experience a nice relaxing lunch or wind down at the end of a busy day.

33 Market Street Leicester LE1 6DN

0116 2542090 08

fashion focus....

Adini

Masai

SPRING TRENDS Get the look at Fenwick Leicester L A D I E S AT F E N W I C K Spring into Summer with Masai tunics and hareem style pants. With so many styles and pattern variations there is something for every woman’s wardrobe this season. Strong bold flower prints combined with bright blocks of colour makes Adini easy and stylish, a must have for 2014.

M E N AT F E N W I C K Spring 2014 for men’s Ted Baker sees its usual array of original prints and vibrant colours across a wide selection of shirts, polo’s and T-shirts.

Barbour International spring range is a fabulous collection of tees, shirts and ultralight jackets with Union Jack flags dominating the linings.

Ted Baker

LEICESTER

0 11 6 2 5 5 3 3 2 2 Barbour

Market Street Leicester www.fenwick.co.uk O P E N E V E RY S U N D AY 11 A M- 5 PM

NICHE 09

Sunshine shopping at Fenwick With a new warmer, brighter season fiiiinnallly upon us it’s time to revamp the wardrobe and inject a bit of Spring/Summer style into our lives. Fenwick in Leicester provides the perfect shopping environment to pick up all the latest trends and styles to see you through the warmer months. We went along to the store to discover some of the brands and trends this season…

For the boys

Exclusive in Leicester to Fenwick, the spring 2014 range of Fynch Hatton includes a whole host of bright colours in supersoft cotton knitwear, accompanied with 100% cotton and soft linen check, plain and striped shirts which are of course all made to the highest quality.

Whilst the spring range for Gant has all the colours, style and quality you would expect from a Gant collection. Cotton and linen tailored jackets, long and short sleeved shirts, v neck and crew neck cotton knitwear and a wide selection of chinos and denim are all part of the stunning spring collection.

For the ladies

The exciting Masai brand make 2014’s spring/summer collection easy to wear and even easier to choose with bold cotton prints and cool sumptuous satins, any choice will make you and your wardrobe complete in an effortless way.

Spring/summer is bringing sun, sand and the vintage prints of Seasalt this season. The ultimate casual collection boasts all you need for the ever changing skies, without ever compromising on style. If it’s a summer wardrobe you are looking for it has to be Seasalt.

Having been a huge part of Leicester’s vibrant city centre since the 60’s, Fenwick knows a thing or two when it comes to helping you shop for the things that are truly you and their reputation for customer service excels meaning you get to shop till you drop with expert advice too! www.fenwick.co.uk/visiting-the-store-leicester 36 Market Street Leicester LE1 6DE

The Ramada Encore Leicester is the City’s newest Hotel and is situated in the heart of the city in the Cultural Quarter.

The Hotel is ideal for both your Business, Leisure and shopping trips alike.

Stay with us and Enjoy Leicester’s Highcross Centre, Silver Arcade and the Lanes.

The Hotel has 115 stylish bedrooms, all with Digital TV’s, Free Internet and WiFi, Comfy Furnishings and modern Wet Room Bathrooms.

Double, Twin, Family and fully accessible rooms Available.

Pollys

Our contemporary Bar and Hub is open to both Residents and the public alike.

Enjoy a Costa Coffee, dine from our All Day Menu or sample some cocktails, beers or wines in the comfort of our Hub.

We specialise in one-to-one style advising to create your own individual look; and our amazing team of dedicated staff are always on hand to give you the most outstanding shopping experience. We show you how to add pieces and accessories each season to build a successful and workable wardrobe.

No. 14 St Martin’s Square.

Online: www.pollysonline.co.uk

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We have 2 high tech meeting rooms with Plasma screen technology, comfy seating and modern furniture.

Ideal for meetings from 5 to 60 Delegates.

Competitive rates are available for accommodation or meeting room bookings.

To contact the Hotel, call 0116 366 0150 or email sales@encoreleicester.com

Ramada Encore Leicester

@EncoreLeicester

90 Charles Street, Leicester, LE1 1GE Tel: 0116 366 0150 www.ramada-encore.com

What’s On LMF ‘BRINGS THE STARS OUT’ AS TINIE TEMPAH AND KOOL AND THE GANG ANNOUNCED FOR INAUGURALTWO DAY FESTIVAL ‘Frisky’ MOBO award-winning rapper Tinie Tempah has today been announced as the headline act for the Leicester Music Festival (LMF) Friday 25th July event, with internationally-renowned funk favourites Kool and the Gang joining Saturday’s line up.

LMF, in partnership with Capital FM East Midlands, is the first-of-its-kind and largest two day event in Leicestershire. Expected to draw a crowd of 44,000 from across the region, gates open from 11am at the Welford Road stadium, home of the Leicester Tigers, on Friday 25th and Saturday 26th July 2014.

Tinie Tempah and Kool and the Gang complement the show’s already eclectic mix of artists and groups spanning urban, soul, R’n’B, reggae and pop. Joining Tinie on Friday’s lineup is ‘Just be good to green’ rapper Professor Green, ‘Little Red’ Katy B, singer-songwriter Billy Ocean, reggae group Aswad and doubleGrammy award-winners Soul II Soul featuring Jazzie B OBE. Saturday’s show is headlined by global superstar Labrinth. Joining him will be boy band Union J, pop favourites The Saturdays, X Factor winner Sam Bailey, chart toppers The Real Thing, Asian pop band Stereo Nation, with Kool and the Gang completing Saturday’s line-up.

Dance sensation Diversity will also be performing on both days of the festival.

One further and final act will be announced at the end of April.

Tickets for LMF are on sale now priced from £45 per person per day and can be purchased from www.theticketfactory.com, www.skiddle.com and in person at Visit Leicester (on Gallowtree Gate) and the Leicester Tigers’ ticket office.

CONFIRMED EVENT LINE-UP FRIDAY 25 JULY 2014 Tinie Tempah Professor Green Katy B Soul II Soul Billy Ocean Aswad Diversity SATURDAY 26 JULY 2014 Labrinth Union J Kool and the Gang The Saturdays Diversity Sam Bailey The Real Thing Stereo Nation

Win Win Win! We have two pairs of tickets to give away to two lucky readers!

All you need to do is tell us which dance sensation is performing on both days?

Send your name answer and contact details to competitions@crossproductions.co.uk before the closing date of June 20th 2014 with the subject ‘music.’

To find out more visit www.leicestermusicfestival.co.uk, follow @LeicesterMF on Twitter, or see Facebook www.facebook.com/leicesterMF

s venue many f their . t one o alsa a icestershire S a n Le ava te s Join H across ut the websi timetable ss o Check o.uk for cla a.c ls a -s avana www.h

Join one of our Cuban salsa classes in Leicestershire today, you won’t regret it!

International set of qualified dance teachers headed up by a Cuban You don’t need a partner Great way to meet people Great way to keep fit Get a passion for life

Bringing Authentic

Latin Spirit

to the Midlands

Great music and people in a welcoming atmosphere

07411 127466 www.havana-salsa.co.uk NICHE 11

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NICHE 13

Plan for their bright future

School Fee Adviser’s Ash raises over £600 for chosen charity so far School Fee Adviser’s Director Ash has already begun offering free one hour no obligation consultations and lending his expertise to clients in return for a donation to the Wings of hope Charity, the firm’s selected main charity for 2014. So far his efforts have raised over £600 and the numbers are steadily growing.

Ash is committed to doing all he can for children when it comes to their education in particular; Ash says “I am delighted to be giving up my time on a monthly basis to support not only new clients looking for sound financial advice, but also the children that will benefit from The Wings of Hope Charity. My father came to this country with nothing but built himself up financially to provide us with the education he felt we needed, I am always grateful for the education I received and anything I can do to help other children get theirs is a privilege.”

1hr sessions are booked on a first come, first served basis and will be held at 9am, 10am, 11am and 12 noon on the last Wednesday of every month with Wednesday 28th May being the next bookable date. The Wings of Hope is a North London based children’s charity, providing free education to poor and orphaned children across the world, irrespective of their religious background. Their mission is a simple one: to ‘empower through education’. Book your No obligation free consultation quick! Or,

if you would like to donate to the charity without the need to utilising Ash’s help of course you can do that too by visiting just giving www. schoolfeeadviser.co.uk/school-fee-adviserlaunches-just-giving-page

Plan for their bright future It’s only natural that you want the very best for your children in life and education is a huge part of that. From primary school right through to university if you opt for your child to attend a private education there are costs attached that can mount, and if not managed correctly can cause financial concerns in other aspects of your family life. School Fee Advisers provide a professional and experienced service which enables you and your family to plan right for education costs so that the children can enjoy the very best education without worry for the family. So, whether you save monthly or invest a lump sum at the outset for their education School Fee Adviser can help you plan for a stress free path to good education.

Whatever your requirements, whether you are a parent, grandparent, relative or trustee, they will create and administer a plan tailored to suit your circumstances. As independent financial advisers (IFA) the team will suggest the most appropriate way for you to tailor your finances whilst also considering your attitude to risk and investment goals. There are a range of products related to School Fees Planning they are more than happy to discuss with you to ensure your

wishes are taken care of and safeguard your children / grandchildren’s education.

School Fee Advisers will also prepare you should your payment plan be affected by lifestyle or income changes due to illness, bereavement or divorce arranging the appropriate insurance that could pay the necessary school/university fees for your child should the worst happen, this process can be a very freeing reassurance in itself for most family members.

Providing financial planning for your child’s educational fees isn’t all they can help with though, as fully trained financial advisors they can assist you with pensions, inheritance tax, protection and equity release to name a few so that your financial life is one which is planned out as far as possible, leaving you with the freedom to enjoy life without financial worry.

Contact Ashvin on: t: 0116 220 2277 f: 0116 220 2288 enquiries@schoolfeeadviser.co.uk www.schoolfeeadviser.co.uk

The Atrium Restaurant is a hit!

Impressed. That’s the word to sum up my Atrium experience from the start, as soon as you set eyes on the place it feels special and quite unlike any other dining experience in Leicester.

Literally on top of the city, well at the top of the beautifully restored Silver Arcade at least, The Atrium makes for a wonderful dining experience no matter what time of the day you visit. Since its opening I have already been twice for lunch and once for an evening meal and at all times of the day from breakfast till late it’s a bustling, vibrant yet relaxed place to be.

The menu consists of a host of mouth-watering classic dishes, tapas options (great sharers!) and daily specials and what’s really good is that all the staff in all areas of the restaurant seem to be truly knowledgeable when it comes to the food on offer, and passionate about the produce

Chutney’s 9 course feast!

Chutney Ivy is one of Leicester’s finest restaurants and with its fabulous nine course set menu giving you the fantastic opportunity to sample a superb selection of different dishes

too (which is predominantly sourced locally) plus, the menu is devised in direct response to what their customer desires. Each time I have been I have struggled with making a choice on what to have, which may or may not be one of the reasons I have been back so often! The staff are attentive yet not too much and create a warm, welcoming environment. The food is cooked to perfection, with so much attention to detail, put simply, you can tell that the chefs really truly care about what they are creating.

Because the restaurant is run and owned by a family it has a wonderfully welcoming feel, no corner cutting and certainly no customer left hungry!

I can’t recommend The Atrium highly enough, I just urge you to try for yourself…. www.the-atrium.co.uk 0116 380 0510

and tastes, it’s certainly one of our favourites! her verdict; “It was such a great opportunity Chutney Ivy serves a range contemporary dishes to really sample the fine food at Chutney. I am inspired by the modern Indian palate, mixed with actually ordinarily not very adventurous with my the solid restaurant favourites. This makes for a choices so the set menu style format was a great comprehensive diner’s menu. The restaurant is way for me to step out of my taste bud comfort divided between a spacious lounge and drinks zone – I am so glad it did! I tried so many things area and a linen-clad dining room. Drapes, I wouldn’t usually have had. The Poppadum’s glass, wood and industrial touches blended with were fluffy and crisp….perfect and the starters plush fabrics and colours all blend to give a chic set a great precedent for what was to come. finish. The restaurant can be hired out, complete The mains were really exciting and gave a great with private access to ‘hip’ late lounge basement representation of the extremely tasty and busy bar, with music. Up to 80 people can be hosted as ever and yet the service was excellent as for banqueting, with around 120 for a drinks and ever! Can’t recommend it enough!” buffet food reception.

So, to experience a range of exciting culinary Chutney Ivy's set feast of nine different dishes delights from this wonderful restaurant book your includes various starters and main course table today on 0116 251 1889 tasters, served in a banquet style, plus 41 Halford St, Leicester LE1 1TR poppadum’s, rice and naan.

Reduced rate car parking at NCP opposite Niche Sales Director Sally Smith visited recently to sample the 9 course extravaganza…here’s

www.chutneyivy.com

Recipe:

METHOD

Green Curry BBQ Chicken:

Cut the chicken into even-sized pieces. Mix the coconut milk with the green curry paste and the chopped coriander. Add the chicken and leave to marinate overnight if possible, or for at least a few hours.

INGREDIENTS SERVES 6 – 6 skinless and boneless chicken breasts – 1 x 400g can coconut milk – 2 tbsp Thai green curry paste – 3 tbsp chopped fresh coriander – 1/2 cucumber, cut in to long julienne strips, to serve – 1 x Chinese leaf lettuce, broken into individual leaves, to serve – 1 bunch min t sprigs, to serve

Thread the chick en pieces onto metal or bamboo skewers - you can either use small skewers and just put one or two pieces per skewer, or use larger skewers and thread up to 6 pieces.

Place over the coals and turn every three minutes, at least four times so that all the meat is well coloured and cooked through.

Alternatively, cook on a ridged grill pan, turning several times until the meat is well coloured and cooked through.

Serve with julienned cucumber, Chinese leaf and mint.

The Bridge Restaurant at New Hall : World Class The beautiful 12th Century New Hall Hotel and

up there for eateries in the UK to visit. Seasonal

comfort, style and atmosphere that you would

Spa is quite rightly deemed to be one of the

menus offer the diner to sample foods which at

want to mark a special occasion, or simply to

finest in the country, offering the very best in

their freshest and offer a continuing variety of

experience fine dining at is should be. The

hospitality. Surrounded by 26 acres of grounds

dishes for the regular diner. Sharing the Earl of

food is always truly amazing with every course

and thought to be the oldest moated inhabited

Warwick’s ethos of creating meals which dine

prepared and presented to perfection! The

houses in England, New Hall is majestic in

off the land, the restaurant is passionate about

mouth-watering seasonal menu assures of a

every way. New Hall offers guests a 4 star

bringing dishes which are classic and fresh

chef who clearly cares and has meticulous

luxury retreat with 60 elegant bedrooms set

yet with signature flair! Pauls current favourites

attention to detail. The wine list is extensive,

within 26 acres of elegant grounds. Working

are; to start; Spiced Monkish, Caramelised

with our hosts happy to assist us in making the

beautifully with its medieval character, the hotel

Cauliflower, Golden Raisin, Onion Bhaji for

right decision for which wine to accompany

offers all the modern luxuries you would hope

mains; Loin of Venison, Beetroot, Parsnip,

each dish. I can never fault the service; it’s

for, with just the right amount of commitment to

Salsify and Shallot Tart and for dessert Orange

always attentive and helpful at just the right

its roots. This stunning hotel is the perfect place

Blossom Panna Cotta, Poppy seed Cake,

level! It really is a gem in the UK’s foodie

to hold your wedding, to visit for a romantic

Granola, Yoghurt Ice Cream. These menu

crown."

getaway, or simply to escape to for a relaxing

choices showcase the style of cuisine you can

spa retreat or evening meal.

expect…just by reading them it’s enough to get the taste buds going!

Its two AA Rosette awarded The Bridge restaurant is certainly no exception to its

Here at Niche we are becoming regulars

renowned perfection with head chef Paul

of the Bridge with editor Sally commenting;

Soczowka bringing his meticulous attention

"Well, I would like to start by commenting on

to detail, presentation and exciting flavours to

the friendly welcome we always receive when

diners. This combined with the use of fresh,

we visit New Hall, as well as the stunning

simple ingredients is placing The Bridge right

surroundings, which offer just the right level of

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To discover more visit www.handpickedhotels. co.uk/hotels/new-hall-hotel/ or call 0845 0727 577

Exclusive to Niche readers Better value than GroupOn!*

Chutney Ivy

The Deal

Chutney Ivy are offering something exclusive for all you lovely Niche readers…a nine course set menu offer giving you the fantastic opportunity to sample a superb selection of different dishes and tastes, all from our favourite Leicester restaurant!

Simply quote ‘Niche Offer’ when booking your table to obtain the offer. Terms and Conditions apply.

Chutney Ivy's set feast of nine different dishes includes various starters and main course tasters, served in a banquet style, plus poppadoms, rice and naan.

Chutney Ivy serves a range contemporary dishes inspired by the modern Indian palate, mixed with the solid restaurant favourites. This makes for a comprehensive diner’s menu. The restaurant is divided between a spacious lounge and drinks area and a linen-clad dining room. Drapes, glass, wood and industrial touches blended with plush fabrics and colours all blend to give a chic finish.

The restaurant can be hired out, complete with private access to ‘hip’ late lounge basement bar, with music. Up to 80 people can be hosted for banqueting, with around 120 for a drinks and buffet food reception.

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

chutneyivy.com

Choose from the following options for your Chutney Ivy Experience: Nine-dish feast with sides to share: £24.95 for two people £48.95 for four people Two-course a la carte meal with sides each:** £28.95 for two people (Up to 65% off) £55.95 for four people (Up to 66% off) Purchase: Limit 1 per 2 or 4 people. Booking: Required by phone only. 48-hour cancellation policy.

Restrictions: Valid Mon-Fri Midday-2.30pm; MonSat 5.30pm-10.30pm. Last seating at 10pm. New clients only. Eat-in only. Set number of offer tables allocated per session. *This offer is listed exclusively to Niche magazine readers provides better value than our previous offer ran locally with GroupOn. **Small surcharges may apply on some dishes

Gentleman’s Corner Hello boys! Lifestyle and leisure magazines all too often leave out the boys! Not us though, here we are with some of the finest companies out there for the gentleman amongst you. Our pick of clothing brands, boutiques gadgets and much more will follow so read on and don’t ever say that Niche leaves you out!

Nomadco 18

www.julientrivedi.com

Prestigio MultiPhone - Featuring a lightweight and beautifully thin design it represents the next generation in smartphone technology.

RRP ÂŁ119.99 http://www.prestigio.com/catalogue/ MultiPhones/MultiPhone_4044_Duo

Welcome to the Fabulous Vodka Company At The Fabulous Vodka Company we have a mission, which is to develop and produce the finest alcoholic drinks. We only use the purest spirits blended or distilled with the finest natural ingredients to produce the smoothest most delicious drinks suitable for drinking neat, over ice, in a cocktail, or as an ingredient in delicious food dishes.

All of The Fabulous Vodka company’s drinks are made without compromise, using the finest ingredients and the best methods and practises. www.fabulousvodka.co.uk Tel: 07902 209532

NICHE 19

[Father's Day ] G i ft Guide

Our recommendations for ideal gifts for Dads!

Our eye-catching range, which also includes a brand new shampoo, conditioner and bodywash, is available to buy from Tesco, Holland and Barrett and GNC, as well as online at Feel Unique, All Beauty, ASOS, and Amazon UK.

Braun CoolTec shaver uses cooling technology to actively transport heat away from the skin to minimise skin problems.

It retails at £199, but is £100 on Amazon and in Boots during May and June in the run up to Father’s Day.

New Spring GODIVA luxury chocolate boxes designed by New York artist Eungu Kang.

They retail for £25.00 and are available to purchase online at www.godivachocolates.co.uk

Introducing the innovation of Men’s walking boots, the Altitude Pro RGS WP. The SRP is £119.99 and they can be purchased from www.hi-tec.com/uk

Grooming essential for tackling even the toughest feet.

The MICRO Pedi Man costs £34.95 and is available direct from Lifes2good on 0845 399 0038, or at www.micropedi.co.uk and from Boots.

C

M

Y

CM

Be.ez LE Littoral for iPad Air £39.99 / Available from amazon. co.uk

Mavericks features a pure titanium frame and is a great choice for consumers demanding a durable, comfortable, highperforming sunglass. £235.00 www.mauijim.com

MY

Home phone users can now enjoy the benefits of smart phone technology, along with the convenience of a home phone from Gigset. £179.99 from Amazon.com

Tanqueray London Dry Gin £26.60 (1L bottle) at Waitrose or £22.50 (70cl bottle) gift boxed at Alexander and James.

E-cigarette brand, Socialites will help people give the gift of life!

A starter kit is available to buy on www.socialiteszero.com priced at £14.99

CMY

K

Laphroaig 10 Year Old is really smokey and iodine rich whisky from Drinks 21. £34 including gift box from www.drinks21.com

ABK6 XO Family Reserve is an exceptional XO Cognac, £85 from Drinks 21, www.drinks21.com

Prestat, Chocolatiers to Her Ma jesty The Queen, new Red Velvet Truffles. £11 from www.prestat.co.uk

CoPilot sat nav app - Suitable for anyone who drives! Available from £24.99 for the UK & Ireland version and from £34.99 for the European version. It is available on all smartphone platforms.

LEDLenser - luxury, high-end torches & headlamps.

You can get the torch personally engraved, making them even more personalised as gifts.

Available at http://www.ledlenser-store.co.uk/

Guylian Belgian Chocolate Sea Horses - these delectable praline filled Sea Horse shaped chocolates are available in indulgent 374g boxes (RRP: £9.99)

Ted Baker Perfume Shop gift set £10 and available exclusively at The Perfume Shop

Jabra SPORT+ Wireless Headphones. £79.99 / Available from Amazon. co.uk

SteelSeries Stratus Wireless Gaming Controller £67.90 / Available to pre-order from steelseries.com

www.yoursportsid.com is the only website that allows you to personalise a selection of Premiership footballs and merchandise. Prices from £12

20

CY

THE World’s Best Cognac 2014 - A must for all award-winning fathers!

ABK6 VSOP Grand Cru Special Price £35 Available exclusively at www.drinks21.com NICHE 21

Fashionista Are you a fashionista? Love to follow the latest trends and unearth the best boutiques around? We do, that’s why we have brought together some of our best finds right here, over the next few pages to get our fellow Fashionista’s pulses racing! We bring you some of the finest in the fashion crowd, from online boutiques to skilled individuals making it their mission to help you look your best we have it all!

www.fenwick.co.uk/visiting-the-store-leicester 22

Make your handbag the best dressed in town

Deservedly awarded the Design Innovation Award by Deutsche Bank Retail UK Silky and strong but adds no weight 11 measured pockets which fit your essentials Change bags in seconds New Summer colours Machine washable at 30° The perfect travelling companion www.

Tel: 01344

291120

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.com

An exclusive brand of handmade jewellery designed & crafted by Maria Thompson BA. Maree London creates timeless three-dimensional signature designs that encapsulate elegance, style and romance. The ethos is to design special and unique pieces of jewellery, creating specific objects of desire for those with exquisite taste to treasure and enjoy.

Commissions welcome! www.mareelondon.co.uk 07941136041 32 Block 3, Greenwich Market, Greenwich, London SE10 9HZ

NICHE 23

Get the look this summer Image from Paul Mitchell

Key trends for SS14 Maree London: The Jeweller to watch Maree London’s Jewellery Designer Maria Thompson is making waves in the world of contemporary yet classic jewellery. With an online boutique and a growing number of exclusive retail outlets stocking her silver and gold collections, her lines are proving popular with customers who appreciate creative work with a classic wearability factor for all ages and occasions.

Having studied a wide range of creative outlets in the early educational stages of her career Maria discovered her love for sculpting and metalwork; “I found I was drawn to a more sculpting side of design and through this also discovered a love for metalwork

from Moda Greco Hair Designers If your hair is already luscious and long, why not opt for nautical waves? Mermaid hair is every girls dream and is on all the catwalks for 2014. For a beach babe look mermaid waves are a simple, yet beautiful look for this summer.

With a current centre parting, both clean and wet - look textures work. To add an extra gloss, smooth down withs serums or add sea salt sprays to add extra movement. Jonathan Saunders and Versace have been big creating this look on the catwalks this season.

A simple update for spring/summer hair colour is 'bronde'. It is the perfect compromise of brown and blond tones, and is great for dark haired girls.

too. Combining the two came naturally when I studied Jewellery work and much of the collection comes from my love for sculpting.” Maria told us. The creative process is very much a natural occurrence for Maria, with her sitting at the bench to create a design as she goes; “I sometimes sketch out ideas but more often than not a design happens when I am at play with the materials. A lot of my work is about creating shapes where the metal isn’t, it’s a lot about what’s not there as well as what is.” Maria explained. The result of her creative play is an ever growing collection of stunning pieces for all occasions and ages, with women adoring her work’s simplicity yet unique designs. Maria also creates bespoke designs and loves to work with clients on pieces which incorporate your ideas or existing stones and metal with her signature style.

To purchase from the beautiful collection visit www.mareelondon.co.uk or call Maria on 07941136041 to discuss your ideas.

Alternatively, if your hair is already blond, stick with warm, not cool, shades. This will match the high street’s bright and pastel shades perfectly.

If your a hair up type of a girl, and want a low maintenance catwalk style you need to try the low ponytail, with a super sleek and super straight finish. This professional look showed

by DKNY can be created within seconds and is known as being 'sexy and strong' on the catwalks. Its minimal look has not a hair out of place and can be secured simply with a band and hairspray.

If your more daring, Edgy bobs are what its all about for 2014. Bobs change through the seasons, but its all about the mega short fringes and striking colours. As catwalked by Marc Jacobs, a super edgy bob is a cut for the 'beauty brave'.

Moda Greco, 3-5 Gallowtree Gate, Leicester, LE1 5AD. Call on 0116 2629201 or visit us at www.modagreco.co.uk

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NICHE 25

www.pashmala.co.uk 26

Creative Chat with Anna Murphy…

With a collection of stunning vibrant Pashmina’s Pashmala owner Anna Murphy tells us all about the meeting of creative minds which enables skilled craftsman from across the world to join together to produce Pashminas which are like works of art.

Have you always had a creative eye?

Yes! I studied Fashion Design, Merchandizing and Textile Science in Canada and have always had a love for all things creative. My mother had that influence over me; she is a skilled seamstress, loves interior design and is in her natural element when making things. Being surrounded by this as I was growing up must have rubbed off on me! I am so glad it did.

What inspires you?

I love nature, animals, flowers, and just being out and about looking at vivid colours. From an early age, I was surrounded by silk saris and fabrics as part of my mother’s creativities and I am always drawn to designs which are unique and striking.

What is the design process for each pashmina?

The process of creating each pashmina is a highly collaborative one starting with a shared design process with my team. I then carefully source my materials from India and Europe and work closely with manufacturers who are dedicated to producing the purest quality and master craftsmanship.

The hand spun, hand woven pashminas are created on traditional hand looms this is because pashmina fibres are much finer than human hair and can only be hand spun and hand loomed as the fibres would break on a machine loom. The floral and abstract prints are digitally printed onto each piece after these are hand woven whilst the embroidered pashminas are hand embroidered traditionally by male artisans.

Like so many other customers, get addicted at first touch!

Visit www.pashmala.co.uk to purchase from the stunning collection.

It’s so nice to hear about such a collaboration of creativity; how do you see the business evolving?

It is really important to provide a product that customers love and of course this is where I always keep my focus; our designs are unique and the quality is superb and I think this is why our customers really love our pieces. I am always listening to my customers and their feedback and can even provide unique, bespoke designs and requests. As long as I keep listening and keep evolving whilst sticking to my roots of working with great creative I think and hope that Pashmala will continue to grow and grow!

Comfy Clogs

Comfy Clogs

Swedish samibracelets have finally arrived in London! The incredibly popular bracelets you can see on many stars today, are made of reindeer leather with silver and pewter thread with an antler button.

Sizes for children, women and men.

Visit www.comfyclogs.net or call Cecilia on 07815 750340 or 020 8780 9767 to find out

Handmade in Sweden and available in a range of the latest fun and funky styles and colours. Sizes for women and children. Perfect and practical for pregnant women and useful in the house and garden!

Real skin Clogs available in a variety of styles. Visit www.comfyclogs.net or call Cecilia on 07815 750340 or 020 8780 9767 to find out more.

Jewellery

by Jasu

​ eautiful custom B handcrafted jewellery for you & your loved ones www.jewellerybyjasu.com info@jewellerybyjasu.com

NICHE 27

Summer Essentials Here’s our guide to the essential items you can’t be without this summer.

Leo Joseph trunks www.leojoseph.co.uk

Available in 4 colour combinations, this style features a feminine, modern shape with MauiGradient lenses for a stylish touch. £221.00 www.mauijim.com

NASALGUARD AllergieBLOCK® gel, is a positively-charged gel that blocks negatively-charged airborne allergens on contact before they enter the nose. (£11.99, Boots)

White Hot Shooshing Crème (£13) White Hot Brilliant Shampoo (£12). Available at www. whitehothair.co.uk and boots.com.

BundleBean Solar is a truly unique lightweight accessory that provides UPF 50+ protection in five different ways, making it the ‘sole’ item you’ll need this summer! £34.99 www.bundlebean.com

Ayo The Polishing Cloth), £28 The Body Cleanser 200ml, £48 www.ayobeauty.com

BOGS’ lightest welly yet, 100% waterproof and suited to warmer temperatures, making it ideal for the summer months. £60-£70 www.anatom.co.uk or www.muddyfeetfirst.com

Cocoa Runners, a chocolate club which delivers a selection of artisan chocolate bars, sourced from around the world, to your door for £16.95 each month. www.cocoarunners.com

Barefoot Pink Moscato is bursting with tropical fruity flavours of peach, cherry and raspberry. It’s deliciously sweet and is perfect served alongside sweet chilli prawns. RRP of £6.99 available from all ma jor retailers.

Barefoot Moscato is a deliciously sweet wine, full of floral aromas and notes of peach. It’s crispness perfectly complements mild cheeses and tangy tropical desserts. RRP of £6.99 available from all ma jor retailers.

Suitable for all hair types, KeraStraight Protect can be used on both wet and dry hair before and during sun exposure. £20.00 www.kerastraight.com

Ultra Hydrating Tea Tree Mint Shampoo & Conditioner to reenergise hair with a three-in-one moisture treat. Waitrose 385ml bottle RSP £6.99

Gallo Family Vineyards Summer White is packed with sumptuous fruity flavours of ripe apple, pear and citrus with subtle floral notes.

Perfect treat on warm summer evenings. RRP of £6.99 available from all ma jor retailers.

Gallo Family Vineyards Summer Red is a refreshing, sweeter wine, bursting with flavours of cherry, pomegranate and raspberry. It’s perfect for serving with smokey BBQ food! RRP £6.99 available from from all ma jor retailers.

“Pozzy” the eco-friendly handsfree flower carrier £12 from www.flowerpozzy.com

The MICRO Pedi is a safe, smooth and professional at-home pedicure device which works on all areas of your feet removing the rough, hard skin safely and quickly! £34.95 www.micropedi. co.uk and from Boots.

The Totseat is a simple yet ingenious design that makes it easy to convert almost any chair into a fully functioning highchair. £24 www.totseat.com

Soleil Organique Sunscreen Mist SPF 15 has a non-greasy, featherlight formula giving great coverage - nourish, repair and hydrate even the most sensitive skin - £24. Blue Tili bags pack of 12 £7.50 www.abeautifulworld.co.uk

La Perla IN ROSA is a beautiful fresh, feminine and flirtatious composition for Spring/Summer. £31 for 30ml EDT

New STRUCTURE Beach Texture Spray is the secret to achieving relaxed, ‘just off the beach’ styled hair. £10.95 www.structurehair.co.uk

Wicked UKick - Fusing elements of badminton and street football, the aim is to keep Wicked UKick off the ground for as long as you can. £7.99

Luxurious merino scarf by House of Hogarth. £49.95 from www.houseofhogarth.co.uk

Reversible tangerine and leopard tote £39.95 from www.handbag2handbag.com

Handpainted Flower Clog in split leather with handpainted flowers, turnable strap and buckle. £48.00 (incl. p & p) from www.comfyclogs.net

Handcrafted Swedish leather bracelet with leather and silverpewter alloy braiding. £65 (incl. p & p) from www.comfyclogs.net

X-mini make amazing portable speakers and have just launched the world’s first thumb size speakers! £24.99 from www.x-mini.com

QDOS PowerMax Dual – go from lighting to mini USB in seconds!

Available now for £29.99 from www.qdossound.com

Supertooth Disco 3 speaker £69.95 from John Lewis & Amazon.com

Kangol Hat - £78, kangol.com

Kirin Ichiban is one of the world’s most expensively brewed beers, made using the unique Japanese “Kirin Ichiban Shibori” process.

SuperTooth TALK n GO £19.99 / Available from Tesco and Currys

Wine Tasting – The Ideal Life Collection DVD, RRP £14.99 www.stitchcombe.co.uk

Q-BOPZ portable Bluetooth speaker. Available from www. qdossound.com and selected Phones 4 U for £29.99

Scandale Swimsuit - £70, amazon.com

Discreet, elegant and waterproof activity tracker to monitor physical activity. Available from John Lewis for £99.95

Be.ez LE Littoral for iPad Air £39.99 / Available from amazon. co.uk

Scooter with digital speedometer so kids can measure and record their distance and speed, a great way of monitoring progress and sharing their performance with friends. RRP £29.99, available at Argos (6 years+)

Spelt Organic Oat Fingers £2.40, Tomato & Roasted Red Pepper Chutney £2.70, Welsh Dragon’s Pâté £3.75 from www.patchwork-pate.co.uk

DIY Face Lift - the incredible at-home facial treatment that tightens and lifts the skin in just 20 minutes! £49.95 available from www.eternalcosmeceuticals. com

Travel in Style: This trio of treats are crucial to your summer beauty routine. £24.50 from www.3moreinches.com

Errazuriz Max Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, RRP £13.99, Waitrose, NISA, Cambridge Wine Merchants, Partridges, Hailsham Cellars, Ellies Cellar, www.winedirect.co.uk

Errazuriz ‘ The Blend Collection’ Red 2009, RRP £23.99, Waitrose, Hoults, North and South Wines, Harrods, Ellies Cellar, The Whalley Wine Shop, www.winedirect.co.uk

Errazuriz ‘Aconcagua Costa Single Vineyard’ Sauvignon Blanc 2013, RRP £12.49, Waitrose, Booths, Cheers, North and South, Hailsham Cellars, Tivoli Wines, Ann et Vin, www.winedirect.co.uk

You Can Be Younger - Use the power of your mind to look and feel 10 years younger in 10 simple steps by Marisa Peer Published 3rd April 2014 £13.00 Trade Paperback

TIANA Rose Fresh Coconut TLC - A luxuriously rich ultra-concentrated face cream - reduces fine lines and wrinkles, deeply conditions and hydrates the skin. £17.99 www. tiana-coconut.com

NICHE 29

Health & wellbeing Always a topic never far from Niche’s lips Health and Wellbeing is very important to us and this issue we take you through some of our very favourite topics. From fitness to cosmetic surgery and lots more in-between, health and wellbeing for us is all about looking and feeling great.

www.choitime.com 30

The

90 Day

Challenge has arrived

Are you up for the challenge?

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Get Fit

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• tastes great • get it free*

*Just introduce 3 others to the challenge

And it works!

America’s #1 Weight Loss & Fitness Challenge has arrived in the UK. Be the first to try in the UK. The challenge is for everyone and every body! 2 million customers, with 5000 joining every day.

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UK promoters Earn £1k - £5k+ Monthly P/T - Unlimited F/T BMW car plan opportunity

Join us at a local challenge party Call John: 07946 413 452 Or visit vi-uk.net

Get the body you want!

Rob of A1BodyFitness is on a mission. A mission to help you get the body that you want, of course you will have to work to get it too but Rob has the means to help you get there. Getting fit and to the body you want is no easy path, particularly if you are going at it alone. Perhaps you have tried to do that regular class, maybe joined a gym, and cleared the cupboards of rubbish only to fall off the wagon at the first hurdle? This story isn’t uncommon but it needn’t be your story. Rob’s training programmes can help you lose fat, gain muscle and simply discover the right programme for you, all with a healthy large dose of motivation.

“I urge potential clients to get in touch to see what I can do to help them reach their goals; I am passionate about fitness and know what it takes to support those that need it so they can get the

results they need. Every client is different and as a result of which all my programmes are individually tailored to suit an individual, that way we have the right recipe for success!” Rob told us.

Level 3 Personal Trainer and Fitness Instructor with 25 years plus fitness and training expertise, focusing on 1-2-1 personal training and body transformations.

Contact Rob on: a1bodyfitness@hotmail.co.uk 07597 659170

Rob’s experience and expertise mean he can help you get the body of your dreams in time for summer and all at an affordable price…so, what are you waiting for?

Contact Rob directly to find out more: 07597659170. a1bodyfitness@hotmail.co.uk www.facebook.com/a1bodyfitness BEACH BODY SPECIAL: 30 minute personal training sessions for only £15 NICHE 31

Westley Cooper - future world champion?

Every now and then s local story comes along that we just have to share and when we heard about 8 year olds Westley Cooper of New Parks Leicester taking the snooker world by storm (and the YouTube one too) we had to find out more.

The wee one is already better than ‘The Rocket O’Sullivan’ according to Mark Selby’s ex-manager Mukesh Parmar, sure he might have to stand on a crate to reach the table but that doesn’t stop his awesome skill! Professionals and snooker fans alike are raving about him, saying that he could very well be world champion one day!

A snooker fan ever since spotting a poolside table at Butlins whilst on a family holiday, Wee Man as he is affectingly referred to by many started out wanting to try and has loved the game ever since!

With a highest break of 49 he regularly beats players older than him and is dedicated to improving his skill daily in the hope that one day he will be champion!

He is also a huge hit on the internet, with more than 11,000 YouTube views of him potting balls and dragging his crate around a full-size, 12x6 foot snooker table.

Dad, Westley Snr is a snooker player himself but nearly always gets beaten by his pint size son; "You could see straight away that he had natural talent. His attitude on the table is phenomenal, and he's so mature for his age. He's really clued up, he knows he's good and he wants to be the best.

Dragging the crate around doesn't bother him. He can play standing on the floor, but it affects his cue action so he's better off on the crate until he grows a bit. He loves snooker, he's always talking about it and watching it," said Westley Snr. With so many professionals and fans raving about the super snooker kid it’s no wonder it’s got us all excited for the future….keep going Westley we want a future champion!

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Images by Teri-Leigh Photography

All the latest from Oadby Town Football Club Community Venue

Winning Team

Date for your diary

The Oadby Town Football Club Premises has been providing locals with a fantastic venue for their celebrations and events for some time now with management and staff keen to ensure you and your guests enjoy a celebration to remember. The community feel comes from so many locals having known or had a great party in the Oadby Club’s walls and with a great space for gathering, dancing and socialising it’s no wonder it’s a popular choice for so many.

The largest room for hire can hold a maximum of 150 people and has 100 parking spaces as well as a great DJ area and outdoor space.

Comfortable seating and a well-stocked and very reasonable bar help to make your party guests feel relaxed whilst the kitchen facilities help you to ensure your buffet goes smoothly.

The management team can arrange for a great DJ who knows how to get the party started and the guests on their feet and the venue is ideal for family celebrations with the team keen to work with you and your budget.

As League Champions 2013/2014 Oadby Town have plenty to shout about at the moment, a great club with a great team and supporters behind them as well as a string of wins under their belt of late, things are looking good! The recent league victory which culminated in a win over Northampton Spencer was a huge score for the club and one which saw Oadby Manager Jeff Stocking more than pleased; “We are there and what a goal and what a performance. The lads kept battling all the way through the game and it was the 89min before we broke the dead lock with a worldy. Well done to Spencer, they set their stall out and did well to be fair.” Never one to rest on his laurels (or let his team rest on theirs either!) Jeff finished this comment with; “Well onwards to our next game which will be very tough to Harrowby at home." So, the lads have to continue to bring it if they want to stay on top!

The club often plays host to some great nights out for you to enjoy, coming up soon: 24th & 25th May – Cider and Sausage Festival - Live music, 40 real ciders + gourmet sausages. Supporting grass roots sport in Oadby + Wigston.

All England World Cups will be shown live.

Look out for our over 21’s disco, every Friday, coming soon!

So, to discover how Oadby Town could provide the perfect venue for your celebration or event contact : 0116 271 5728

Plus, to keep on top of all the latest from the champion team including details of upcoming home and away games visit www.pitchero.com/clubs/ oadbytown

NICHE 33

win Choi Time was born from Melissa Choi’s desire to bring the rituals and health benefits of Chinese specialty teas that have been enjoyed by her own family for generations.

We have teamed up to give away 10 Trio of Teas Gift Boxes, valued at £15.00!

Send your name and contact details to competitions@crossproductions.co.uk before the closing date of June 5th 2014 with the subject ‘choi’ for your chance to win!

Explore and shop from the multi award winning range at:

www.choitime.com

JOIN THE EVOLUTION. Get Lost in Rutland is a great new camping and cycling shop in Rutland Village, Rutland Garden Centre, Oakham, Rutland. urban & bikram

YO G A

More Studios, More Classes, More Styles, More Benefits.

•

See our outdoor tent display of family, festival and expedition tents.

•

Camping equipment for maximum enjoyment of camping.

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Extensive range of high quality leisure clothing and equipment

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Affordable bicycles, including power assisted electric bikes

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Personalised customer support and advice

•

Duke of Edinburgh discounted bundles

•

Community activities including learn to courses for Nordic Walking

•

Hire an electric bike or a hybrid bike and try one of our Great Rutland Rural Rides with free map and directions

•

Family treasure hunt on bikes.

www.getlostinrutland.co.uk

INTRO OFFER: 3O DAYS FOR ONLY £30!

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

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Open 7 days a week

e: info@getlostinrutland.co.uk tel: 01572 868712

www.bikramyogaleicester.co.uk

Bringing out the best inU Coaching - personal and professional, training and consultancy, interactive workshops and motivational speaking.

Your journey can start right now with a free sample session

“I am very passionate about innovation and change and flagship projects that make a difference to every individual in our society.

Therefore taking responsibility for our own health and education needs to start young. I have spent the last ten years helping people take responsibility for their health, eating and emotional wellbeing by connecting the synergy between mind and body. Integration and consistency for long term results is crucial.�

Contact Sanjaya Rakha for more information on Coaching, Training and Consultancy or Motivational Speaking website www.in-u.co.uk

email me sanjaya@in-u.co.uk

call me 07717209975 NICHE 35

C o s me ti c Surgery Clinic

• Breast Enlargement and Uplift • Body Contouring and Lift • Tummy Tuck • Liposuction • Nose and Ear Reshaping • Eye Bag Removal • Skin Lumps, Moles and Skin Tag Removal • Anti Wrinkle Treatments • Laser Treatments Fraxel Skin Tightening, CO2RE Resurfacing, Scars, Moles, Thread Veins and Birth Marks

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All cosmetic Surgical and Non Surgical

Treatments at your local Private Hospital. t: 0845 6801018 e: cosmetic.plasticsurgeon@gmail.com w: www.cosmeticsurgeon.org.uk

Mr T.K.Sankar

MBBS BTEC(Laser) FRCS(Eng) FRCS (Plastic Surgery)

Cosmetic Surgery: Mr Sankar Explains With the use of cosmetic surgery on the rise here in the UK we decided to have a chat with a well known Consultant for the Midlands, Mr Sankar, to find out what you should be looking for if you are considering a procedure yourself.

If an individual is thinking about having a procedure what steps should they take first?

In the first instance they should do some research; there are some great resources available online to tell you what a typical procedure would entail.

Alternatively, they could talk to someone who has undergone the procedure already and ask about their experience. It would be beneficial to have a basic understanding of the procedure before visiting a Consultant, or to visit your GP to discuss it in more detail. For more information visit http://www. bapras.org.uk/patient_information

What should an individual expect from a consultation?

You will see the same Consultant throughout the process and they will be available, should you need help or advice at any stage. I meet with my clients twice before their procedure; first to discuss their requirements and how they can be achieved.

Secondly, to iron out any questions or concerns they may have. If you feel you need more time to discuss the procedure, further consultations are available..

There is quite a bit of worry and mistrust associated with seeking out a cosmetic surgeon, what would you advise an individual look out for when choosing one?

The most important things are their credentials, training and experience. I am a member of a number of leading regulators and bodies such as BAPRAS,

registered with GMC Specialist Register and have many years of experience as an NHS Surgeon. I would advise looking for consultations and operations in good local hospitals. Undergoing the procedure locally will make it easier to get the best post-operative care. Choosing a cheaper service may mean that you receive your consultation locally but the surgery may be carried out in another city or even another country, making things very difficult should any problems occur.

Mr Sankar offers a wide range of Cosmetic Surgery available right here in Leicester and utilises all local hospitals and services. He is a member of the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons and also provides nonsurgical procedures such as anti-wrinkle and Laser treatments.for a consultation to discuss your needs. He also provides non-surgical procedures such as anti-wrinkle treatments, and laser procedures.

“I have had Breast Augmentation with Mr. Sankar, from the start to the finish it has been a perfect journey. Mr Sankar has been very helpful and made me feel at ease at all times. The surgery has changed my life.� Ms. L.P. Leicester. www.cosmeticsurgeon.org.uk Appointments: 07584 245199 Email: cosmetic.plasticsurgeon@gmail.com

Mr Sankar (MBBS, BTEC Laser, FRCS Eng, FRCS Plast) is a consultant at the following clinics and hospitals in the Midlands: Nuffield Health Hospital in Leicester,

NICHE 37

COLON HYDROTHERAPY Colonics are currently trendy since they have become part of the rich and famous health and beauty regime. The treatment continues to receive much media attention, including being featured on Dr Gillian Mckeiths TV Show and book ‘You Are What You Eat’.

Body Intelligence versus Mind Intelligence What is that? I hear you say!

We all have a physical body connected to our brain (well mostly!). Our brain, mind and head are positioned at the top. Go have a look!

Perhaps there is a reason. Just take a minute and wonder what that might be like if say our brains evolved to be near our feet or in the middle in our tummy, how odd would that look and feel?

The power we have in our brains and mind is amazing and over years it can get clever, too clever when you may see evidence of living in a dreamlike state or fantasy and not engage with the reality of life and what is happening to us, all of us today. So we can, over years and years become less intuitive with our body intelligence, signs, signals, pain, aches, weight, feelings.

Let`s take weight for example, when you put weight on, our brains can dismiss information because it has got clever enough to be able to do that, however during weight gain, we can feel it in our bodies and we constantly tell ourselves it`s ok, it`s because of my hectic life, I have got kids, I don’t get enough time and so on but the physical signs are still there until it has to get louder and louder for you to listen so sleep patterns get disturbed, we get irritable bowel, we feel bloated and heavy. We now have a problem!

Take the last time you ate a meal in a restaurant, as lovely it is to eat good food and have a great social life we can all relate to feeling stuffed, that`s our mind excited enough to override our physical boundary with our stomach which is now in pain.

One last thing, our emotions - you know the happiness, sadness, fearful and angry feelings we healthily get from time to time, take a moment and see what feeling you have today and where it is felt in your body. Combining intelligence from body and mind is SMART, it’s a skill we adults forget, children have it. Let`s keep that precious intelligence. DO NOT IGNORE. www.in-u.co.uk email me sanjaya@in-u.co.uk call me 07717209975

38

Detox with Choi Time We all know that our bodies benefit greatly from a detox, eating the right foods and getting the right amount of exercise, but how many of you realised that by drinking the right high quality teas you can offer your body some great detoxing aids to help boost and cleanse your system? Choi Time offers an award winning range of carefully selected teas

At Beau Aesthetica Spa and Clinic we bring a new and fresh approach to the ancient practice of Colon Hydrotherapy, also known as Colonic Irrigation. The Ambience we create here at the clinic is unique. On your visit you will be warmly welcomed into and environment where you can relax and unwind. The spa like design of the colon hydrotherapy treatment room provides comfortable and soothing surroundings where you can nurture your mind, body and spirit.

sourced by healthy tea enthusiast and Choi Time founder Melissa Choi.

With a rich history of tea drinking ceremonies in her family Melissa created Choi Time after realising her passion for tea was and could be shared by so many; “I source only the finest Chinese speciality teas and after seeing the evidence of its health benefits in the elders of my family I felt passionate about bringing

Colon Hydrotherapy is a natural method of cleansing the colon using a soothing flow of warm, sterilised and purified water instilled gently into the colon. This procedure cleans out toxins as well as hydrates the lower colon. A colon cleansed of its toxins, is better able to do its job of moving food through the digestive system, while absorbing vital nutrients, protein, water and cell salts back into the blood stream.

those benefits to a wider audience.” Melissa explains. Many of the teas available from Choi Time offer a long list of health benefits but if you are looking for a good detox tea look no further than their green range which includes; wild green tea, jasmine green tea pearls and a green oolong tea called yellow treasure.

These carefully selected multi-award winning teas are a true experience to enjoy, not only do they taste amazing and provide endless health benefits ( including beauty benefits!) many

The LIBBE device is considered to be the Rolls Royce of colon hydrotherapy treatment devices. It provides more privacy, dignity and efficacy than other methods, whilst offering our clients a relaxing, safe and comfortable treatment. This system allows you to have a sense of being in control during the treatment.

A course of colon hydrotherapy treatments combined with sensible eating allows the body to detox, thus relieving symptoms associated with toxicity.

of the teas look stunning and are beautifully packaged making them ideal gifts for friends and family or as an essential for you.

Choi Time Teas are offering an exclusive

10% discount for our readers, just use the

code ‘NICHETEATOX’ when you check out.

To purchase from the range and to follow a detox in this simple tea drinking way visit www.choitime.com or call 08450533269.

More specific conditions like bloating linked to period pains and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), may be also relieved through Colon Hydrotherapy.

All our clients leave us feeling truly Rebalanced, Rejuvenated and Re-energised with a new zest for life.

Call us at the Clinic on 0116 270 9141.

Beau Aesthetica Spa and Clinic, 17 Allandale Road, Leicester. LE2 2DA

to offer Lipo Selection by Vaser

Lipo Selection an exciting revolutionary procedure for body reshaping which targets just the fat cells you want removed. It uses the latest technology to gently dissolve fat cells and remove fat in your thighs, hips, abdomen, love handles, knees, back, arms, neck and chin. Dr Kam Singh is the first Doctor in the Midlands to perfect this treatment and is the only trainer in the Midlands.

Lose inches with the only clinical treatment to reduce cellulite.

Endermologie:

Imagine waking up in the morning without having to spend time applying your eyeliner, lipliner or perfecting your eyebrows. All this can be easily achieved and those perfectly applied eyebrows striking eyes and lips will remain smudge free day and night.

✓ All consultations are FREE! ✓ Dr Based Clinic ✓ Colon Hydrotherapy ✓ Jan Marini Skin Rejuvenation ✓ Laser Lipolysis ✓ Lumps Bumps and Mole Removal ✓ Muscle Relaxing Injections ✓ Semi-Permanent Makeup ✓ Skin Fillers ✓ Skin Peels

For further information, please call 0116

270 9141 or visit www.beauaesthetica.com

17 Allandale Road, Stoneygate, Leicester LE2 2DA NICHE 39

Be free from the things which are holding you back…

Unlocking and peeling back the layers of the

they bring; “More often than not these situations

tools to use, we can start with a no obligation

human mind is interesting, right? We think so

can be resolved or shifted if you like with your

free consultation and see where it goes!” Ian

and a chat with leading hypnotherapist Ian

mind looking at things differently and it’s my job

explained.

Woodley only furthered our interest. Having

to discover the best ways and means to get to

successfully lost a significant amount of weight

that different mind-set. No two people are the

Perhaps the key thing to remember is to be

and kicking a particularly severe sugar habit

same so I treat no two patients the same, it’s an

open to change, open to the methods used

(up to 40 cups of tea a day each containing

evolving relationship in that I work with you to

and see where it could take you, after all – what

8 sugars!) Ian decided that the benefits of

establish what you need and then we both work

have you got to lose?

hypnotherapy had to be shared with others.

together to achieve that specific goal.”

He went on to train to become a fully qualified

Ian told us.

hypnotherapist with certification from a number

Ian is trained in the following areas and is always seeking further training:

of leading professional bodies and now

Ian’s desire to help others is further echoed

- National Council of Hypnotherapy

provides hypnotherapy, which includes NLP

in the affordability of his sessions, and in

- Society of Neuro Linguistic Programming

and EFT amongst many others, and works from

the instance that he even offers one client a

- National Register of Advanced

therapy rooms in Norwich and Great Yarmouth

month a free session for those that really can’t

Hypnotherapists

or your home. Assisting you in Weight loss,

afford it, it’s his way of giving back after the

quitting smoking, managing IBS, to gain

treatment changed his life; “I want to encourage

He is also registered with Complementary and

confidence and motivation, to improve your self-

everybody who has any stumbling block in life,

Natural Healthcare Council 002453 -L10

belief or to manage stress, anger, anxiety and

whether its weight issues, confidence issues or

phobias as well as virtually any other situations

ongoing anxiety problems to realise that there is

So, what are you waiting for?

that may be holding you back from the life

effective help out there and that they can break

you want to be living. In helping with these

the chain. Of course, my therapy style might

Contact 0845 504 6477 to change your

situations Ian is keen to help you to become

not be for everyone, but I’m very adaptable

the person you want to be, free from the worry

and have many styles of work and effective

40

life for the better.

www.the-mind-works.co.uk

Learn your Fate from the

Osiris Oracle

Kala Patel PG Dip & MA Counselling & Psychotherapy Supervision PG certificate in Continuing Education

I have designed these cards as I believed there was nothing to help the novice learner to develop their intuition and psychic ability and gain more experience in reading the cards.

The images are easy to read, understand and interpret and in time, you will find a deeper meaning and become experienced in learning the future for family, friends and may be, even for yourself.

Full instructions included.

You can learn your Fate from the Osiris Oracle, forty-eight cards based on traditional tarot and playing cards, but with an Egyptian theme. Osiris, a God King, a Pharaoh, who ruled in ancient Egypt, the Supreme Controller of Life.

Order from my website www.RosildaReadings.com or log on to eBay and search under Osiris Oracle tarot cards.

Pack for entertainment purposes only.

ORDER FORM ....... deck(s) of Osiris Oracle tarot @ £7.50 each inc UK post & packing = £ ............

Print your name/address ............................................................................................... ......................................................................................................................................... .........................................................................................................................................

Post order form and payment to: RosildaReadings.com, 1 Holmes Close, Groby, Leics LE6 0BU

Person Centred

Anti-Oppressive Practice Kala Patel PG Dip & MA Counselling & Psychotherapy Supervision PG certificate in Continuing Education BACP member

Counselling & Psychotherapy •

Self Esteem

•

Depression

•

Grief & Loss

•

Anxiety

•

Abuse: Emotional, Physical, Sexual

•

Sexuality

•

Eating Problems

•

Suicidal Feelings

Supervision •

Student

•

Experienced Practitioner

0776 933 6324 kalapatel@live.com

What is stress?

Stress is when a demand is placed on us physically, mentally of emotionally. The body responds by releasing adrenaline for the ‘fight or flight’ reaction. This is a natural reaction and has always been there to keep us safe, and passes when the danger has gone.

However, in some situations the stress is when demands are more than our ability to cope. Stress and the way we cope with it can affect our health, physically, mentally and emotionally.

Each person responds differently dependent on personality, culture, experience and gender.

How does stress manifest?

- Sources of stress include life events like having a baby, getting married or moving house - Daily issues – feeling overwhelmed - Due to a traumatic event, eg a death in the family - Not being able to cope with responsibilities - Bullying at work or school - Financial problems - Domestic/relationship problems Usually the following have to last for more than 2 weeks: - Being unhappy - Irritability - Inability to concentrate on the things you enjoyed doing - Wanting to sleep too much or not sleeping enough - Not wanting sex - Feeling isolated - Comfort eating or not eating enough - Alcohol or substance abuse - Aches, pains and dizziness How to cope: - Learn to say ‘no’ to when you usually say ‘yes’; especially if

there does not seem to be enough time in the day.

- Learn to see the signs earlier – watch out for lethargy and

tiredness; not wanting to eat or comfort eating; not wanting to

meet up with friends and family.

- Have routines to help you manage.

- Get out of the house.

- Go for long walks and take regular exercise.

- Dance whilst vacuuming.

- Sing songs that make you smile.

- Spend time with people who make you feel safe.

- Cut down on alcohol, sugar, tea and coffee.

- Eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables.

- Get creative.

- Learn relaxation techniques.

If you cannot do any of these for yourself and have been feeling extremely low for more than two weeks, you may be clinically depressed. It is worth exploring with your G.P. to eliminate any physical symptoms. If there is a counselling service in the surgery, he or she will refer you.

Anti-depressants do not help you to recover from depression, they help you to manage on a daily basis. Underlying issues have to be dealt with, these come back as soon as you come off the anti-depressants.

You may consider accessing private counselling or psychotherapy. It is vital to work with a trained and qualified practitioner working to national standards such as the BACP Ethical Framework for Good Practice in Counselling and Psychotherapy. You can find more about this, different types of therapy and therapists at http://www.itsgoodtotalk.org.uk/.

NICHE 41

38

Become a ‘Crimestopper’ in Leicestershire Keep your community safe and show that crime really does matter Independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers is appealing for enthusiastic members of the public to join its volunteer team in Leicestershire and Rutland, and support the fight against crime in the county.

The charity last month launched a national discussion on key crimes affecting the UK public and is now seeking out willing individuals to join its growing family of crime fighters. In Leicestershire alone, 1681 pieces of useful information about crime were received by Crimestoppers in the year 2012/13 leading to 152 arrests.

Whether your expertise is in business, the media, or maybe even fundraising, we’d love to hear from you – all we ask is that you have a passion for your local area and you share the same vision as we do – that everyone deserves to live in a community free of crime.

East Midlands Regional Manager, Kiran Dhanda, said: “Volunteering for Crimestoppers is a great way to make a difference and I’m really looking forward to growing our team to make Leicestershire and Rutland safer places to live and work.”

“You can dedicate as much or as little time as you like – every little helps and your efforts will be rewarded with the satisfaction that you are playing a part in keeping your community safe.”

“Roles could be anything from working with local businesses to gain financial support to promoting our Fearless message to 11-16 year olds. We are also keen to hear from anyone who might be interested in taking on Treasury or Secretarial roles.”

“Any help would be greatly appreciated. You really could make a difference.’’

Crimestoppers is an independent charity which helps the police to solve crimes, making communities safer. It does this by operating the 24/7 telephone number 0800 555 111 which people can ring to pass on information about crimes anonymously. They can also use our ‘giving information’ form via our website www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

Around 20 people are arrested and charged every day as a result of information given to Crimestoppers.

If you are interested in becoming a Crimestoppers volunteer in Leicestershire and Rutland, please visit www.crimestoppers-uk.org/ volunteer or call 020 8835 3700.

For more information please contact Crimestoppers Regional Manager Kiran Dhanda on 07827 995358 / email kiran.dhanda@ crimestoppers-uk.org or Media Officer Fiona Murton-Taylor on 0208 835 3752 / email fiona. murton-taylor@crimestoppers-uk.org.

Workforce – impacts of Domestic Abuse

Weight Management

Over the years I have talked about the impact of domestic abuse on the workforce many times and this has frequently fallen on deaf ears. Which is why I was delighted when Niche approached me asking me to do a small column in their publications, drawing on my expertise in the field of domestic abuse (DA) and starting with; DA impacts on the workforce?

The matter of weight management, as I believe

When we consider that 1 in 4 women & 1 in 6 men will experience DA in their life times and for our children its an estimated 3/4million – every year live with it. It is no surprise to learn of impacts on the workforce. As with all things DA what is seen is not always all that it is. Impacts can manifest in the form of regular lateness or needing to finish early, physical and emotional exhaustion which would impact effectiveness and productivity. Absenteeism, increased Sick Leave, behavioural changes in the individual and as always, low self esteem, pertaining to a lack of confidence.

I have over 20yrs experience with DA and there is a huge amount of data specifying common themes. If you look on the web there are reams of research, policies, magazines, books, newspapers – you name it, on how we need to manage or identify DA in the workplace.

So, if we’re all so well informed, how come this is such an enormous ignored issue within the workplace? The simple answer is; in our language, in our perceptions & in our beliefs.

Across all sectors of workforce DA will feature.

It is clear that terminology alone is key to our learning. Referencing faceless victims as opposed to speaking inclusively, as people, does not give us the tools or skills to identify where we sit on the whole spectrum of Human Behaviour. Whilst we continue to step aside from these ‘toxic topics’, we will never be able to wholly embrace and understand, the human

or financial cost, in our homes, communities, as well as in our workforces, specifically regarding retention, development & productivity.

For more information on this topic and others www.clarewalkerconsultancy.com

is a better way of putting it, is a very hot subject.

I do believe though that we are not approaching it in the right way. There is much information out there about dieting, but is that a sustainable way of obtaining weight management? Many of my clients know more about nutrition, exercise and dieting than I do, and yet they cannot maintain their weight.

Sustainable weight management is a long term process, and is about lifestyle change, but more importantly - attitude! Because we need food to survive, and we are surrounded by food, and marketing to get us to eat more food, we need to change our understanding of our behaviours towards food.

We must remember that ourselves as human beings, have not changed much over thousands of years. But our world has! In this country we are generally pretty lucky, and obtaining food is not difficult. Yet we are battling our evolution, which says if there is food available, then eat it, as we might not have anymore! Hence we can deprive ourselves of food in dieting. But when we stop its eat eat eat!

This is why we need to adapt our thinking process in the modern world. If you then add on to this the immense stresses and strains we find ourselves under in this modern world, its no wonder we can find comfort in eating all these wonderfuls foods we can now produce.

So what is the answer? Having treated many people very succesfully in weight management, it is all about behaviours and habits. And habits can be changed but its takes desire and motivation - not starvation. So start thinking about your thinking!!

0845 504 6477

www.the-mind-works.co.uk

NICHE 43

Wedding Belles Who doesn’t love a good wedding? We love them here at Niche and if you are planning one look no further than our wedding section for some of the very best in services and suppliers in the midlands. From the transport to the cake it’s all important and all part of the fun in planning isn’t it? So don’t stress, read on and we will do the hard work for you.

www.collegecourt.co.uk 42

HS jewellers has a luxury selection of beautifully crafted jewellery, specialising in Wedding and Engagement rings.

www.hsjewellers.co.uk Tell:0845 2000 314

Elsa Rose Boutique is a creative business based in Weston super Mare specialising in wedding accessories and bespoke gifts for all occasions. Set up in 2013 by Sarah Cammish after her own wedding, the business is dedicated to helping brides and grooms accessorise their big day in a way that is unique to them, rather than following the rule book. Designing bespoke bridal bouquets for brides-to-be, Sarah incorporates elements of something old, new, borrowed and, where it fits, blue to create sentimental keepsakes that will evoke memories for years to come. Brides are able to incorporate sentimental pieces into their bouquets, making it even more personal and for the grooms and bridal party, Sarah designs buttonholes and corsages to match the bridal bouquet. Don’t forget the clay cake toppers made to look like the happy couple, which can later be staged in a deep box frame, and you really have the icing on the cake! www.elsaroseboutique.wordpress.com

Jane’s Hair and Beauty We specialise in wedding hair...so let us pamper you on your big day! Either visit our salon or we will come to your home or venue. We provide all your hair and beauty needs including: - Hair - Make-up - Nails/Gel - Spray Tan

To see our portfolio come in and see us or visit our wesbite www.janeshairbeauty.co.uk NICHE 45

Hen & Stags on the loose Your hen or stag do plans are one of the most important and enjoyable aspects to your wedding planning, the perfect time for a bit of stress relief during the stressful lead up to the big day, a great way of getting old friends and new mixing together and really just a chance to celebrate your big day ahead! But, what do you do? Gone are the days where a simple trip to the local is suffice!

Here is our mini-guide to what you can do to celebrate…

Stags A good activity day is a great way to get things going on a stag do and there are some great locations right here in the Midlands. Stretton Circuit as featured in this very issue offers both gokarting and paintballing, both make for a great stag do out! Then there are some great clay pigeon shooting and outdoor training circuits in Leicester too for those that want to put their stags through their paces! Of course, these are all pretty much pre-pub suggestions, but at least they branch out a little from the usual pub crawl as the day draws to a close!

Hens The hens are usually a little easier to please and for those that prefer a quieter do a spa break is perfect, the ideal excuse to get together, to get pampered and relax before the big day. Or, there’s always a refined afternoon tea! Unless your crew are a little more active? You could always do as the boys have, go-karting and paintballing is open to the hens too of course! For the evening fun Bistro Live is a great option, entertainment, food and drink all under one roof (minimum damage to the feet in those heels walking from bar to bar!)

We are delighted to announce that our fleet of senior karts for 2014 is a return to the much loved prokart and are our fastest karts yet.

Corporate clients or larger groups are very well catered for at Stretton Circuit with a wide variety of Grand Prix or Team Endurance formats available. We offer a unique venue to host your event totally flexible in our approach we can tailor make the day to accommodate your business function. Fully licensed bar and catering are available.

Stag/Hen parties, children’s parties or simply a fastest lap shoot out with a few friends a great choice for all your social events.

Based in the Midlands only 10 minutes from J21 of the M1 Booking and General Enquiries call 0116 2592900 Email info@strettoncircuit.co.uk www.strettoncircuit.co.uk Stretton Circuit, Gartree Road, Great Stretton, Leicester LE2 2FG

46

The Perfect Hen Night It's the most important night of your single life and you need to make it memorable!

Our hen night specialist is on hand to make sure your party runs smoothly from initial booking through to looking at the pictures afterwards!

Give us a call 0844 375 2222 to book that memorable night

Bistro Live for a hen night to remember!

What do you look for when

choosing a place to host your

hen night? Great music, great

food, fun party atmosphere all

at affordable prices? Sound like

the ideal mix for a great hen do?

Well, there’s a place in the centre of Leicester City that has long been the favourite destination for Hens looking for a brilliant place to celebrate

receive hen party bags as well as a round of shots on top! The premium package meanwhile offers all of the above but a cocktail upgrade to a champagne one, delicious canapés and a personal waiter!

The Bistro Live team are so eager to ensure you experience the very best hen party you even have a hen party specialist at Bistro Live who will be your point of contact from enquiry right through to getting the pictures to you after! The Bistro Live guys are really keen at making sure a

- and it goes by the name of Bistro Live. Having

good time is had by all, and that means getting

how to ensure you and your hens have the best

party detail is hard to beat!

played host to hens for over 10 years and hosted all the key elements spot on, from food to service and quality of the entertainment their attention to the 15,981 hens last year alone, the team know time! Featuring a great mix of food, dancing and drinks Bistro Live looks set to remain Leicester’s premier Hen venue. A range of packages mean there will be something to suit with a tasty three

The Niche team went along to experience a night on the town Bistro Live style and loved every minute of it; “It was so much fun! The food was

course meal, decorations for your table and even amazing, really tasty and really fresh. The music was fab and the dancing and atmosphere more a cocktail on arrival as the basic package. To upgrade to the standard package you will also

than lived up to the hype that you often hear

about the place! Dancing on tables and brilliant music acts – what more could you ask for!?”

Operations Director Leanne Baker enthused.

So, to ensure your hen party is one of the funnest nights out you will ever have look no further than the hen host experts at www.bistrolive.com or call 0844 375 2222

NICHE 47

The professionals in photo and video booth hire!

Capturing memories to last a lifetime!

How do you inject some fun into your big day for your guests and create timeless happy memories and keepsakes of those guests? With a photo and video booth of course! Booth Mania offer a fantastic booth service for your wedding right here in the Midlands and their top of the range equipment and props have provided hours of fun for guests and bridal parties for years!

The booth can accommodate up to 6 at a time, and have loads of fun with fancy dress props provided! Each booth session provides your guests with a set of four pictures to take away as a memento on the day itself and of course after the big day you will receive a copy of all the photos or video messages taken for you to enjoy over and over again!

helen alborn cakes

Bespoke cakes, cupcakes & biscuits made for all occasions www.helenalborncakes.co.uk Email: info@helenalborncakes.co.uk Telephone 07506344376 Business based in Anstey, Leicestershire

Your booth package will also include a friendly attendant to help with proceedings, the use of a green screen for other images in the background if you wish a personalised message on prints, bespoke borders for the images, colour, sepia or back and white options and a wide range of props, hats and costumes!

You also have the option of adding a guest book service, a free Facebook upload service and even personalised key rings for a small extra cost. The fun booth team travel within Leicestershire and beyond and simply love to inject the fun into your big day! Contact the team to receive a quote working to your budget and inject some fun into your event with a photo and video booth call: 0116 2430628 Mobile: 07917 415560 or visit www.engravingmemories.co.uk

10% off when you quote ‘Niche’

www.topbananaweddings.co.uk 48

Jewellery for life with HS Jewellers Finding that perfect ring, whether for an engagement or wedding band it needs to be a special process, after all its jewellery that hopefully will be worn for life! It’s an occasion where you both deserve the best and with this in mind we would like to personally recommend HS Jewellers.

Founded in 2002, HS Jewellers are one of the most esteemed jewellers around with many delighted customers enjoying their commitment to high quality pieces all at surprisingly very affordable prices. Their expert knowledge and customer services, combined with their skills for seeking out pieces for their collections make them a jeweller whose reputation is growing in popularity and high regard amongst those seeking the perfect wedding rings.

Their truly unique wedding rings are created by them from the start, with HS Jewellers seeking out all the components, from the diamonds and metals through to the design and finish of each ring. The collections include stunning designs in engagement rings, bands and even eternity rings with all pieces at very affordable prices.

The small team of experienced jewellers can even create a bespoke piece for you and your budget!

“The service I received really was amazing. The level of communication was great, I knew what was happening at each stage, therefore the result I got was exactly what I asked for!”

Leigh Smith. www.hsjewellers.co.uk Tell: 0845 2000 314

A wedding party to remember…

Your wedding reception requires a DJ to get everyone moving and having fun, a wedding can be a tricky thing to pull off for a DJ as the crowd can be a real mixed affair, mixed ages and mixed tastes are hard to cater for. When the DJ gets the magic mix right though the party will leave guests whipping of their heels and ties and dancing til the very end; the desired effect for a wedding party surely? Midlands Pro DJ are the DJ’s who make it their music mission to ensure every wedding party goes this way.

A family run business Midlands Pro DJ is a duo consisting of identical music maestro twins Ian and Bryan McIntosh who began making parties epic back in 2004. Their desire to bring good music whatever its style to the masses has never faltered and they love to cater for all music styles encouraging guests and hosts to have as much or as little input into the selected play lists as they desire. The Midlands Pro DJ team is ever expanding with Ian and Brian now boasting a close knit team of outstanding DJ’s and artists to create a party to remember. The ever growing team are all trained to an exceptional standard; they are passionate about music and entertainment, have particular passions for specific genres and most importantly, are all adamant that your party is one you and your guests will never forget!

The Midlands Pro DJ team all have an infectious energy and enthusiasm means your wedding party or event will be nothing but fun!

Call: Bryan McIntosh : 07929452287 Ian McIntosh : 07875290818 Email: info@midlandsprodj.com www.midlandsprodj.com

50

Gabriella White Lace Bridal Bustier £42.00 Stretch lace bustier with padded cups and removable waist sash with rhinestone flowers.

Bustier features center back hook and eye closure, boning, elasticized waist, attached garters and removable straps.

Great for a Bridal Bustier.

The Ultimate Lace White Lingerie Corset UK 6 - 22, £79.00 Our stunning re-embroidered lace is lined with heavy satin and elegantly trimmed with floral patterned venice trim on top and bottom of our sweetheart neckline. Also designed with slimming boning. Hook and eye side closure and waist slimming and cleavage enhancing lace up back. Comes with detachable and removable garters and G string.

www.butterflycorsets.co.uk

Cakes by Minel

10% off your order when you Quote Niche Magazine

Wow your guests with Cakes by Minel Your wedding cake is one of the biggest things your guests will comment on, they can be real show stoppers, particularly

the creations at Cakes By Minel. With an emphasis on high quality ingredients and of course meticulous attention to detail,

a Cake by Minel is guaranteed to be remembered. Taking inspiration from a couple's personality, their hobbies, their colour scheme and even from the detail on the brides dress, Minel's passion for baking the wedding cake of your dreams means

the possibilities are endless! If your heart flutters for dots, diamonds, roses, and pretty much anything in-between, Cakes by Minel will make it happen! whatever you are thinking of contact Minel for a friendly cake-based chat!

Web: www.facebook.com/cakesbyminel

Mobile: 07957615741

Email: cakesbyminel@gmail.com

NICHE 51

www.sassandbelle.co.uk

Sass & Belle offer a shopping experience nothing short of delightful. Their gifts are bursting with charm and creativity. The wedding range is second to none with range of prices to suit every budget. Sass & Belle is a design-led gift and homeware company situated in the heart of London.

www.sassandbelle.co.uk 10% off Wedding Gifts and Decorations with the promotional code WEDDING10 exclusive to Niche readers

So Scrumptious Cake Designs is a family run business with over 10 years experience specializing in celebration cakes, wedding cakes and bespoke desserts.

Catering for all dietary requirements particularly eggless cakes.

Offering 'one to one' consultations where we will create a bespoke cake tailored around your special occasion.

Amaze your guests with a beautifully lit giant LOVE, HEART or NUMBERS! Great for the back drop at your wedding creating fantastic photo opportunities for all your guests.

Choose your illuminated HOLLYWOOD LETTERS to match your colours scheme!

So Scrumptious Cake Designs pride themselves on using the best ingredients available to them.

07792 220592 soscrumptiouscakedesigns@hotmail.co.uk www.facebook.com/pages/So-Scrumptious-Cake-Designs

Book now for your big day!

Mobile: 07966 368669

Email: enquiries@hollywoodletters.co.uk Web: www.hollywoodletters.co.uk

Delivery & Set-up fee includes delivery within a 50 mile radius of Bolton BL7.

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College Court: Your wedding venue For your big day to run smoothly you of course need a variety of elements ticked off the list, you need your dream outfits, perfect guest list, great music, delicious food, gorgeous rings, beautiful flowers and of course the right venue. The venue actually being one of the most important aspects needs to first be practical in offering an easy location for guests to get to, it needs to offer a variety of food options and of course some great locations for those all-important photographs.

However above all your venue should just feel ‘right’ in a similar way to when you said yes to your partner, and yes to that particular wedding dress, it’s a gut feeling as well as a practical one and the team behind the venue are amongst one of the most crucial aspects to a venue getting it right.

Leicester’s College Court is the ideal venue to host your special day. Boasting contemporary cool 60’s inspired surroundings, excellent hotel facilities, great transport links and exceptional food the team at College Court provide the kind of stress free wedding a couple can usually only dream of, it’s a venue that definitely gets it right. You can choose from one of the three beautifully appointed rooms and three price packages to ensure that everything is covered and every guest is looked after, the team are approachable, warm and friendly whilst remaining professional and ensuring the day

runs smoothly so you don’t have to.

The refurbished Grade II listed College Court is fast becoming Leicestershire’s premiere events venue and that’s all thanks to their winning combination of luxurious rooms and attentive staff. When it comes to your wedding day you can expect nothing less than for everything to run perfectly. The packages are great for a variety of budgets and include everything from cake knives to three course meal plans and consider those details which can easily mount up onto any couples ‘to do list’ …. They can even arrange for a DJ at your evening reception!

The accommodation for your guests is more than ideally positioned, with the rooms adjacent to the event facilities. The hotel has 123 luxuriously appointed bedrooms and all the amenities your wedding guests to hope for as they join in the celebrations for your big day. Perfect for guests traveling from afar or simply for those local to the venue wanting to feel part of the big day even at breakfast the next day.

Boasting the very best in cool contemporary city surroundings, beautifully prepared food and a team committed to giving the happy couple and their guests a wonderful day to remember, College Court is proving to be a wonderfully unique and chic city wedding venue for Leicester.

A visit to the venue would be a great place to start, have a look round and a chat with a dedicated member of the team and discover how College Court can give you the wedding day venue of your dreams. www.collegecourt.co.uk/events/weddings Call: 0116 244 9669 to discuss your plans and requirements.

NICHE 53

Bouquets to last a lifetime Creating beautiful handmade button bouquets, brooch bouquets and unique vintage wedding bouquets Ditsy Bride make their fabulous bespoke button and brooch bouquets to order and offer something special and unique for every bride. You can order a custom made bouquet by browsing the beautiful collections and using the easy to use order page at www.ditsybride.co.uk. Alternatively, if you would prefer, they have some readymade designs for sale in their Etsy Shop. If you have a particular theme in mind or a piece of jewellery that is special to you they are more than happy to work with you and your ideas. The two sisters at Ditsy Bride are passionate about creating a bouquet of your dreams and draw from their years of experience in floristry to create beautiful bouquets that last a lifetime. www.ditsybride.co.uk www.etsy.com/shop/ditsybride Tel: 07938 138 793 Email: info@ditsybride.co.uk Beautiful new bridal bouquet boutique opening on the 1st May 2014 9 The Arcade, Market Street, Colne, Lancashire, BB8 0HR

Vi n ta g e Tre a t s Traditional sweet cart hire Pink package: includes cart hire plus all glassware, scoops and sweet bags Lilac package: As above and also includes traditional sweets White package: Everything included as above plus delivery and collection to your venue Get in touch for a quote!

Tel: 07966 001186 Email: Vintagetreats@hotmail.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/vintagetreatskatie

Bebalicious Cakes With incredible history and a fairytale setting, Coombe Abbey Hotel is the perfect venue for your Wedding Day. We invite you to hold your Wedding or Ceremony, Reception and Evening celebrations in our unique surroundings.

Are you getting married or planning a big party?

We are here to make your sweet dreams come true.

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Whether you are planning an intimate gathering or larger celebration, we are sure that our magnificent Reception Rooms will not fail to impress. An exciting blend of heritage and splendour, superb food and outstanding service will make your day one to cherish and remember forever.

Our Latest All Inclusive Wedding Package starts from ÂŁ89 per person

Exceptional cakes for weddings and special occasions in Leicester.

Now enjoy Afternoon Tea in beautiful surroundings at Coombe Abbey.

Served 7 days a week.

Call: 01162531591 Mobile: 0771 2458408 Email: beba32@hotmail.co.uk www.facebook.com/BebaliciousCakes

For more details please contact us on +44 (0) 2476 450 450 or email weddings@coombeabbey.com www.coombeabbey.com

Geoff makes your wedding day dreams a reality…

Geoff the VW Camper would like the general public to be aware that he has emerged from his extensive makeover more handsome than ever and ready to whisk you off to the venue for your big day in true style! Geoff is a 1966 converted split screen camper that wooed his owners into buying him a few years ago now, and he has been lovingly restored ever since. Business partners and great friends Samantha and Carla joined forces (along with their husbands) to make it their mission to share the beauty of Geoff with the world; “We just fell in love with him and he was the perfect project to become a shared holiday maker, it was only really as we started to have him refurbished that we decided he was too handsome to keep to ourselves, wedding hire seemed like his

forte and so VW Wedding Hire was born!”

Sam told us.

touches such as tissues and plasters to help your day go without hitch!

It wasn’t as easy as some new curtains though with Geoff undergoing a completely new engine (making break downs a lot less likely!) as well as new paint job, panels, interior and accessories to give him that comfortable modern feel whilst retaining his cool classic status. “He was a real labour of love for all involved but it’s all worth it to see him now! To make a wedding that extra bit special for a couple and to be part of their big day is huge for us, a real honour.” Sam explained. With a tailored service, Geoff’s driver takes care of you and your driving needs and Geoff provides you will champagne and a care package featuring lovely, thoughtful

To see Geoff is to fall in love with Geoff and not only does he make everyone smile but he’s reliable and lovely for your pictures too! You can decorate with a choice of bunting and ribbons and pull down the back blind to reveal a ‘Just Married’ sign…that Geoff, he’s so thoughtful!

Geoff’s family welcome you to call to discuss how he can help make your day complete and picture perfect!

Call: 07796 074959 www.facebook.com/Vwwedding

Weddings Ltd

The perfect way to arrive in style Contact Carla: 07796074959 Email vwweddings@btinternet.com www.vwweddings-hire.co.uk

The perfect way to arrive in style!

Geoff, the 1966 split screen VW Camper Van, will ensure you arrive to your ceremony on time & then have time alone after you are married to enjoy time together.

Geoff is ready for hire now and covers the whole of the East Midlands!!

vwweddings-hire.co.uk 07796 074959

vwweddings@btinternet.com

NICHE 55

Same sex weddings With same sex marriages now finally legal here in the UK happy couples all over the country are now rightfully able to tie the knot and live in wedded bliss! Hurrah!

We love a good wedding as you know and equally love to tell you pre-nuptial couples all about our finds in the world of weddings. From good suppliers for all your dĂŠcor, photography and venue needs to discovering the perfect jeweller to make the wedding bands you will wear for the rest of your life - you can count on us to help you out with all our recommendations!

College Court

Crystallized bottles of champagne made to order for any special occasion info@crystaleleganceonline.com @Crys_Elegance

www.facebook.com/Crystal-Elegance

After studying sugar craft for several years, I decided to follow my heart and set up Deborah's Adorable Cakes. Each cake I design is made to order and my passion is creating true-to-life sugar flowers to give your cake the wow factor, every design is unique and personal to you. All my cakes are baked fresh to order so they will taste as good as they look.

You can find me 10 minutes from the National Exhibition Centre.

www.deborahsadorablecakes.co.uk info@deborahsadorablecakes.co.uk Gli Archi

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A jewel of a boutique in the heat of the Midlands!!

Pink Confetti is an award winning independent boutique offering gorgeous bridal gowns and accessories from carefully selected UK designers and we know that for one of the biggest days of your life it deserves to be perfect in every single way!

Tel: 01455 283311 or 07516 374919 www.pinkconfetti.co.uk Join in the fun! Follow us on Facebook and Twitter!

17 Dunton Road, Broughton Astley, Leicester, LE9 6NA

Sweet Ideas Nottingham Ltd

Events and Wedding Suppliers & Planners

Gli Archi

07463 395017

sales@sweetideasnottingham.co.uk 122 Derby Road, Stapleford, NG9 7AD

The perfect choice for a sophisticated event, Gli Archi string quartet creates an elegant atmosphere for your wedding ceremony or reception. We offer a high standard of music in a range of styles, from classical favourites to jazz and the latest popular music.

For more information contact: 07814 231795

07969 019617

sarahjherbert@aol.com

NICHE 57

The stress of planning a wedding is never easy…

Sweet Ideas Nottingham Ltd

Events and Wedding Suppliers & Planners At Sweet Ideas Nottingham we are committed to providing a first class service from start to finish.

Our packages include the full set up of your chosen items at your venue. We will make sure you will not be disappointed with our service!

Bronze Package Endless decisions Pressures of Family and friends expectations of your special day Worry of how good you'll look Effect of stress on worrying about how good you'll look!

Lack of sleep

Siân from Top Banana Weddings is an

experienced, creative, affordable Wedding

Planner based in Worcestershire. If you are looking for inspiration help and advice with planning and coordinating your Big Day then get in touch with Siân to arrange a

consultation to see how having a wedding planner can take away a lot of the stress.

Siân specializes in tipi/marquee weddings There is something that you might have overlooked that could ease all of the above: Yoga, whether its Bikram, Flow, Power, Dynamic or just simple Hatha.

A regular yoga practice, will not only calm your mind. It will give you an hours empty mind. Where you can just focus on you.

As you work through the postures, the stimulation that the movements give to your organs as well as your muscles will in turn give you better sleep, more energy, great looking skin, more toned body & utterly clear mind leaving you better able to do what must be done for the big day.

where there is no in-house wedding

coordinator to ask for help and be behind the scenes making sure everything is just

how you want it. It takes a lot to organise a wedding, so call on a professional to help you through the planning process and

Siân will also be there on the day, from first thing to the first dance!

‘Every Wedding needs a Siân, she was the glue that held all our crazy plans together’ Rob & Hannah Tipi Wedding 2013

www.bikramyogaleicester.co.uk or

Chair covers and organza sash in your chosen colour x5 Balloon cluster centrepiece Place name cards Table number/name cards Swagging to top table Organza favor pouches Post box Guest book 50 Guests £350 75 Guests £500 100 Guests £650 125 Guests £800 150 Guests £950

50 Guests £450 75 Guests £600 100 Guests £750 125 Guests £900 150 Guests £1050

www.urbancityyoga.co.uk

Telephone or email to arrange a consultation 0781 259 7039

sian@topbananaweddings.co.uk www.topbananaweddings.co.uk

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Silver Package

Chair covers and organza sash in your chosen colour Table Runner x5 Balloon cluster centrepiece Place name cards Table number/name cards Swagging to top table Organza favor pouches Post box Guest book Sweet Cart

For regular Yoga Classes to suit you go to

Intro offer £30 for 30 days

50 Guests £300 75 Guests £450 100 Guests £600 125 Guests £725 150 Guests £875

Gold Package

Having detoxed your mind and body you will then be more productive and better able to cope and enjoy this special time. Not too mention looking good on it too!

Where we have 36 classes a week waiting for you

Chair covers and organza sash in your chosen colour x3 Balloon cluster centrepiece Place name cards Table number/name cards Post box Guest book

07463 395017 sales@sweetideasnottingham.co.uk

Sprinkle of Magic Wedding Planners

We are NCFE qualified and award winning Wedding Planners.

Helping you create your magical day. We remain focused on your requirements, we are completely flexible and you remain in full control. Giving you full support and taking stress away enabling you to enjoy other aspects of your wedding planning.

Contact Sarah Tugwell on 07961 477081 www.sprinkleofmagic.co.uk

Perfect party accessory!

Wow your guests with these delicious mouthfuls of pure cake bliss. Suitable for any event, cake pops are also an excellent marketing tool for corporate events as they can be customised with your brand logo.

An ultimate edible gift and with next day deliveries directly to your door it could not be easier!

To order call: 0800 145 5515 Email: info@popkakery.com or visit our online shop: www.popkakery.com Sprinkle of Magic

Fort hos eofuswi t hal i t t l emor et ol ove. . .

Ar eyou' Rubenes que' ,' cur vac eous ' , ' vol upt uous 'ors i mpl ya ' Bi gBeaut i f ulWoman' ?

Letushel pyout odi s c over Thedr es sofyourdr eams !

Tr yonas el ect i onofc out ur ecr eat i ons es peci al l ydes i gnedt of i t& f l at t er f r om t hef ol l owi ngc ol l ect i ons : Beaut i f ulBr i desPl us ' Femme'byKennet hW i ns t on ' Her i t age'byAmandaW yat t ' Sons i e'byVer omi a VenusWoman W hi t eRos ePl us Al ls t ocks ampl esar ebet weens i ze1 830 Weal s os t ock: Br i des mai dsgowns Fl ower gi r l& pageboyout f i t s Ul t i mat e( For malSui tHi r e)

Something Blue Bridal 1 022Ches t erRoad Er di ngt on Bi r mi ngham B240LL

01 213 823 000 or 0795 85 02286 www. s omet hi ngbl uebr i dal uk. c om Fac ebook:s omet hi ngbl uebr i dal

Sundayandeveni ngappoi nt ment savai l abl e

Set in 7 acres of its own grounds and within a peaceful village location this Warwickshire hotel is the perfect venue for any celebration or event. Weston Hall the ideal location for meetings and special occasions.

Our dedicated and experienced banqueting team have extensive experience of Weddings, Banquets and celebratory events to draw from. And with licensing for civil wedding ceremonies you can enjoy your special day without need of worry.

Weston Hall Hotel,Weston Lane, Bulkington, Coventry, Warwickshire, CV12 9RU Contact 02476 312989 for more information or visit www.bw-westonhallhotel.co.uk

NICHE 59

Don’t Move,Improve They say that moving house is one of the most stressful things you can do, well ‘they’ are right, take it from us! So if you’re not moving why not get improving? Add a few accessories from Beulah Home with their beautiful hand loomed cushions, discover the right furniture from Charlie’s Pine & Oak or if this all sounds too tough then seek out an expert in the shape of an interior designer!

www.chrysalisinteriordesign.com

Spring has finally sprung and as we head into May out thoughts turn to summer colour.

Here at Organic Effects we love using herbaceous perennials to liven up the borders. Perennials are perfect for anyone who wants colour year after year. Dying down over winter and bursting into life in the spring. If you choose carefully there is something to flower all through the summer into early autumn. Easy to care for too, and as part of our garden services we can come and tidy them up before winter and prune things back so they give you the very best show next year.

Here are some of the team’s favourite herbaceous perennials: Astillbes: Beautiful plumes of fluffy flowers reminiscent of candyfloss, in red, white or pink. Perfect for a moist shady spot.

Echinacea magnus (Cone Flower): This plant loves the sun and will tolerate heat and drought well. Elegant pink/ purple daisies so named because of the cone

centre which is a delight for bees and butterflies. Leave seed heads on for dramatic frost covered spikes in winter.

Scabious: If you’re after value for money this is the star of the show. It’s best in

the front of a border in sun or partial shade. Dead head frequently and it will keep flowering from May through to autumn.

So if you’re looking for colour in your garden this summer give herbaceous perennials a try.

Organic Effects is the Professional Garden Service that YOU have been looking for. Offering one-offs, weekly, fortnightly, monthly & seasonal, all our work is fully insured and all waste removed!

What we do: Clearances & Tidy-ups Pruning Trees & Shrubs Hedge-trimming & Topiary Mowing, Edging & Lawncare

Now spring is here we turn our attention to the garden, weeding, planting & mowing but what about when all that is done and you want to sit on the patio to enjoy a nice glass of wine (or beer) how do you extend that summer evening?

Here at Countesthorpe Blinds Ltd we have the answer, Patio Awnings & Terrace covers. Both of these products not only give shade against harmful UV rays but improve the ambience of a summers evening.

Cold air drops at night, so sitting under one keeps the chill off and now with the addition of Quartz Heaters that heat you and not the air, enable you to enjoy a drink long into the night.

Patio Awnings come in a wide range of models, from a Basic manual awning to fully motorised cassette awning, With the addition of lighting and heating you can totally transform the area.

All awnings are fully retractable and and self supporting when extended.

So if this sounds like a great way to enjoy the summer, call Countesthorpe Blinds Ltd for a free no obligation quotation on : 0116 277 6749 or 0771 833 7048 or visit our website at. www.countesthorpe-blinds.co.uk

Weeding Beds, Paving & Drives Water-feature maintenance Planting, Dividing, Lifting Feeding & Mulching Beds Cleaning & Jet Washing Repairs & Construction

Call us for a free quote: 07896109377, or E-mail us: Enquiries@Organic-Effects.co.uk Or visit our website: www.organic-effects.co.uk

NICHE 61

Roof Specialists to Trust How many of you have muttered the saying ‘At least we have a good roof over our heads!’ Quite a few of you we expect. But, how many of you really have a good roof over your heads?!

The impact of a good roof on the look and feel of your property is huge, not to mention the fact that a good one provides rewards that go on for years and years, should you get the job done right. Mono Roofing have been providing roof repairs, replacements, installations and any other of the public’s roofing needs for over 25 years right here in the Midlands; whether your roof is a pitched roof or a flat roof, or you are looking for work on facias or soffits, gutters or chimneys, or even decorative lead work, they are the exerts to call on. New to the many roofing strings in their bow are the flat roof fibre glass and rubber roof formats; being new to market they are an advancement of materials used before and are great when it comes to price and efficiency!

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Of course, with the Mono Roofing team being highly experienced (with over 180 year’s worth between them!) what they don’t know about roofs isn’t worth knowing so with each and every client the team will visit you and your roof for expert advice on all your requirements.

An obligation free quote from a team member will let you know where you stand right from the start and their knowledge means they can answer pretty much any query you might have (of the roofing kind at least…!) Being solely roof specialists you can be assured of their expert skills and knowledge of the job in hand.

This leading roof specialist team of Leicestershire is led by husband and wife Vicky and Jason who encourage you to give them a call for a friendly, no-obligation chat or quotation to look at how they can help you improve your home by fixing up your roof without taking your budget through it; “We are happy to have a chat about which products would work best for you and your budget, it’s all about finding suitable solutions so that you the client are completely

happy with the roof over your head!” Victoria told us.

Over the years Mono have built up a brilliant reputation within the area, with many of their clients in particular coming to them through word of mouth from satisfied customers; “It’s always great when clients come to us because they have seen or heard about the work that we do in Leicestershire, and we think is testament to the professionalism and friendliness of our staff. After 25 years in roofing we like to think we know what we are talking about and our clients like the fact that we are honest from the start.” Victoria explained. It’s this experience and honesty that helps to make Mono stand out from the crowd, not to mention their range of excellent products and commitment to high levels of customer service.

Call: 0116 267 7177 www.monoroofing.co.uk

I N V E S T I N Y O U R H E A LT H A N D R E L A X AT I O N

SUNDANCE ® SPAS AUTHORISED DEALER:

With over 10 years experience, MySpaUK guarantee to bring you the best hot tub experience available.

To find out more, visit our showroom or call to book a ‘wet test’ and experience the Sundance heritage of innovation and features such as Fluidix™ jets and Bentleys Garden Buildings, Loughborough Road, Wanlip, Leicestershire. LE7 4PN Phone: 01530 460643 Website: www.myspashop.co.uk

CLEARRAY® water purification.

Open 7 days a week we have hot tubs available from £3,595. We also service and repair all other makes of hot tub and offer a spring cleaning service from just £79.

NICHE 17

A new look...

for a warmer climate

With the change in season it’s likely you are

pieces and ideas which will last through trends

scale of assistance, with the home makeover

getting the urge for a spring clean, a fresh

- which ultimately will save you money in the

and moving in services Samantha and her

start and a chance to breathe new life into your

long term! An experienced and passionate

experience can add those touches to your

home. This is easily done, a few brighter licks of

interior designer Samantha is keen to share her

home that will make all the difference to your

paint and some lighter fabrics to let more of that

contacts and home visions with you; “Over the

comfort and its style, at a fraction of the cost for

lovely light in, or even to transform a couple of

years I have built up some great relationships

a complete space design.

rooms in the house to give your home that lift it

with suppliers and can help you achieve a

needs and to perhaps utilise a space previously

luxury look for your home at affordable high

However, should you really be feeling the desire

unused. It can be hard to know where to start

street style prices. The healthy trade discounts

to move rather than improve Chrysalis can

though and some of us can feel daunted by

I get are always passed onto my clients and I

help with that too. Home Staging by Chrysalis

the idea of transforming a space, this is where

can vary how I work with a client so I can simply

presents your home for sale in the best possible

enlisting a professional really can make all the

consult on a project on an hourly basis, leaving

light. Before putting your house on the market

difference to your home.

the client to implement my advice themselves

Chrysalis will come and professionally stage

and I can just come in near the end of the

your property helping you sell your home more

project again to help finish it off.”

quickly and for as high a price as possible.

as expensive as you might think! Samantha,

Meeting with you and discussing your likes and

So, whatever your home styling requirements,

owner of Chrysalis Interiors, offers luxury home

dislikes, your budget, lifestyle and personality

whether you are looking for a complete design,

transformations at affordable prices; “Having

Samantha transforms your home with your

a few tweaks to make it home or bring it back to

an interior designer isn’t just for the rich and

personality and lifestyle as a guide. Chrysalis

life or simply to present it in its best light to sell

famous of this world, far from it. My aim is to

really does turn your home from a caterpillar into

or rent out, Chrysalis are the experts for you.

provide decorative advice and refurbishment

the butterfly it ought to be! Chrysalis’ services

ideas for your home using carefully selected

are available to you whatever your budget or

Bringing a fresh designer look to your home with the help of an interior designer really isn’t

64

A room with a view your outdoors a holiday feel and give you the

if they are looking to undertake a big project

opportunity to relax and socialise in your garden

but this isn’t the case with Chrysalis, far from

through these warmer months. With just a few

it in fact! I can gladly assist in anything from

additions and tweaks you can make the most

sourcing a particular piece of furniture to

out of an often neglected space. Chrysalis

transforming your entire home and outdoor

Interiors can show you how; “Whilst I am not

living!” Samantha enthused.

a landscape gardener or expert on plants I

As the warmer months approach our thoughts turn to the long- neglected outside space, perhaps you have been freshening up the garden with some new bulbs, given the lawn a mow or even given the outside of your home front a spruce up. But we wonder if you have considered adding pieces to your garden which will encourage you, your family and friends to get outside and appreciate the outdoors more? Perhaps creating a room environment outside? Some well-placed seating, heating accessories, statues, awnings, fire pits or even a conservatory build/revamp can give

know a thing or two about how to transform

So, whether you are looking for a bit of advice,

your outdoor space during the summer months

to source that perfect piece of furniture or

and would love to work with you. With the right

to completely transform your home from the

furniture and accessories we can create a great

inside out contact Chrysalis for a friendly,

space for you, your family and friends to enjoy.

approachable and affordable interiors service.

Whether it’s assistance in sourcing the perfect seating or a complete redesign of a kitchen and outdoor eating area I have some great ideas and contacts to help make the most of your outdoor space.” Samantha explained.

Chrysalis is happy to consult in whichever way suits you, over the phone, through email or in

Web: www.chrysalisinteriordesign.com and www.chrysalishomestaging.com Tel: 0121 6476709

f: Facebook.com/ChrysalisInteriorDesign

person you will get a professional, experience interiors (and exteriors!) service to suit you and

t: @ChrysalisID

your budget; “Often people assume they can only enlist the services of an interior designer

NICHE 25

Leicester’s Best Kept Secret

Rattan and Solid Oak Showroom now open 7 Days a week 10am- 5pm

- Rattan Furniture on a Niche reader offer - Over 20 sets on display - Aluminium Frame UV protected, fade resistant, tempered glass, shower proof & washable covers - Maintenance FREE - Free Delivery across Leicestershire

- Free parasol & cover with every set purchased when you quote Niche Magazine

Unit 6, Queniborough Ind Estate, Queniborough, Leicester, LE7 3FP (behind BP service station)

Landline - 0116 367 0635 www.homeandgardenfurnitureuk.co.uk

Nature in your home

Small Wonders

Capturing the beauty of the sea Having truly never met a soul who doesn’t love the sea I find it hard to believe that anyone would not appreciate “small wonders cornwall”.

A husband and wife team, with a deep love for the shore-line, have turned their passion for the Cornish shores into a work of art for all to enjoy. With a collection of stunning pressed seaweed fine art prints which can be admired and purchased by visitors to the “Blue Mist” co-operative gallery space in beautiful St Ives, and, UK wide at their boutique website. Their collection of little wonders are drawing quite the crowd of interest in those with a love of nature and the sea.

Each piece is a team effort with Clive and Anne combing the beaches in the perfect conditions (post–storm is ideal, but not too stormy mind!) to discover nature’s abundance of natural seaweed art. The colours are striking and the detail fascinating. However, it’s certainly not as easy as plucking from the shore line and framing. No, no. Clive has been known to work through the night to ensure the seaweed is preserved quickly and correctly, to keep it at its best. To frame the seaweed itself would mean that the colours would quickly fade in natural light, so, each carefully selected piece is given the fine art print treatment and then framed within the very best materials. It’s quite a labour of love with only a select few making the grade and Clive and Anne are both thrilled to be bringing their love for the shoreline to the public. The collection is growing, with the design duo keen to bring their artwork to everyone; unframed pieces and prints are in the pipeline and greetings cards too, helping to make the art accessible to all.

Butterfly Domes

My name is Charlotte Proudlove and I make Butterfly Domes - glass domes filled with butterflies. You can choose the butterflies you would like me to use in your butterfly dome or select from a range of domes I already have on my website.

I started making my butterfly domes about two years ago and haven't looked back. My inspiration initially came from a beautiful Victorian glass dome filled with antique taxidermy birds which my father had given me for my birthday. I thought butterflies would be an unusual, and beautiful, twist on that idea.

I love to visit antique fairs and have now collected a large selection of Victorian and vintage glass domes. I also have a good range of modern glass domes which help to make my butterfly domes more suitable to all budgets. My butterflies are from The Lepidoptera Association who breed butterflies to help encourage an active interest in conservation. No harm has come to any of my butterflies and non of the species used in my work are endangered.

If you would like to discuss a butterfly dome please call me on 07951 110147 or visit www.butterflydomes.co.uk for details.

Visit www.smallwonderscornwall.co.uk or call 01209 843117 to enquire and purchase from this lovely collection.

NICHE 67

Hinckley & Rugby serves up great mortgages If you want an affordable mortgage at highly competitive rates backed by oustanding service delivered by a local mutually owned building society, take a look at Hinckley & Rugby.

Leicestershire’s largest building society, Hinckley & Rugby offers modern mortgages backed by traditional service.

The Society’s highly trained and experienced staff will personally assess your application – we do not use automated credit scoring – and help you pick the mortgage that best suits your individual circumstances.

It could be a discount mortgage, a fixed rate or a tracker. And valuations are free too, for properties up to £1 million in value. Some of our mortgages have no fees and others go up to 95 per cent loan to value (LTV), which can be a real help to first time buyers and for growing families needing a bigger home.

SLM Builders: Professional, Friendly and Reliable When you think of getting building work done to improve your home what are your concerns?

That there will be mass chaos? Masses of mess?

Dust everywhere and lots of people coming and going? The list of worries could go on but you want that dream home. SLM Builders can help give you that home but with minimal levels of chaos! Good to know isn’t it?

SLM Builders are renowned for their above and beyond commitment to excellent customer service and with all building work undertaken they are the perfect team for the job. Specialising in new builds, extensions, conservatory construction, conversions and any ideas you might have about what you want to achieve for your home the team always welcome a conversation regarding your plans and want to help you achieve your perfect home. You can expect the following commitments every time from SLM no matter how big the job is at hand; their high levels of workmanship, their can-do attitude, their open and honest communication and, perhaps most importantly, they will turn up on time on the day they say they will with a friendly, experienced, respectful workforce!

Because Hinckley & Rugby does not have a call centre, all its mortgage staff can be called at its head office in Hinckley. You can usually talk to your named mortgage services assistant straight “What a quick and professionally finished away. If they are on another call, they’ll ring you build! We all were shocked at how quickly the extension was completed and not only was straight back. the finished project of such a high standard, but all staff on site conducted their work with Hinckley & Rugby chief executive Chris White such consideration, always working to the said: “Great service is at the heart of what we given instructions and also considering our do every day. We have no shareholders to pay needs. Each and every day the site was left in – we are dedicated to working for our savers a clean, safe and secure manner. Due to your and borrowers - so we can make our mortgages professional manner you made what could more affordable for more people.” have been a stress full time into an enjoyable experience. I for one would not hesitate in recommending your company for any type of Please call into one of our ten branches or building work.” Jason Mallaney. call 0800 434 6343. Details of all the Society’s mortgages are also at www.hrbs.co.uk www.slmbuilders.co.uk TEL: 0116 276 5333

68

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE Paying too much for your utility bills?

Jenny Cross, Niche Company Director, was…

With three children and a busy, bustling family home Jenny’s bills were not only high but pretty confusing too; juggling paying out to various different providers isn’t easy, as many of us know. However, when she discovered Utility Warehouse everything changed…

Utility Warehouse offer home and business customers substantial savings on utilities, all under one ‘roof’, making communication easier.

They provide a host of services which include the UK’s most generous CashBack card, an Online Shopping service which also offers CashBack, single and simple statements for all your utilities, award-winning customer service, competitive energy prices with a unique price guarantee compared with the ‘Big 6’ providers, no minimum contract on most services… and a generous £200 to help you switch towards early termination fees charged by your previous telephony providers!! What’s not to like?! Choose from bundles which include home phone, broadband, mobile and energy.

“I can’t believe how much money I am saving already, at the moment I am saving at least £60 a month! It’s so much easier than trying to work everything out. I love the simple statements and all the other benefits! I just wish I had found them sooner.” Jenny enthused.

Of course there are some terms and conditions to the benefits above. For full details, peace of mind and an altogether clearer way to get your utility services for your home or business visit the website of Utility Warehouse Authorised Distributor, David Goadby: www.save-earnmoney.co.uk.

Great Value, Great Service Over 28 Years Experience

- Old carpets disposed of - Wide choice & genuine advice

- Expert fitting guaranteed

- Axminsters - Carpet Tiles - Laminates - Solid Woods - Vinyls - Sisals Shop online at www.astleycarpets.co.uk astleycarpets@yahoo.co.uk

01455 285214

75 Main St, Broughton Astley LE9 6RE (free parking)

Specialists in design, manufacture and installation of bespoke furniture

NEW SHOWROOM: Charnwood House, Waterworks Road, Coalville, Leicestershire, LE67 4HW T: 01530 835 834 F: 01530 813 352 E: enquiries@charnwoodkitchens.co.uk

www.charnwoodkitchens.co.uk

NICHE 69

SLM Builders: Professional, Friendly and Reliable

Experienced and family-run building contractors with over 25 years experience.

Stress free service new builds, extensions & refurbishments including commercial & industrial construction works.

20

37 Melrose Street, Leicester LE4 6FD T: 0116 276 5333 F: 0116 261 1919 E: slmbuilders@btconnect.com

Carpet Cleaner Dry in 1hr

*

- email or call Stuart for

FREE ADVICE Before

After

• Carpet Cleaning • Suites - Leather and Fabric • Oriental Carpets/Rugs • Curtain Cleaning Stuart Simpson carries out the cleaning himself with all the care and skill you would expect from someone with a wealth of experience and knowledge.

call 01509 412797 0116 298 7082 *when patented Texatherm cleaning system used

email stuart@the professionalcarpetcleaner.co.uk visit www.theprofessionalcarpetcleaner.co.uk

NICHE 71

Colourhub Electrical Services

Commercial Services

Electrical services for business Electrical products for your business Landlord services Facilities management services

Domestic Services

Storm washed seaweeds from Cornish shores; pressings and prints, displayed on cards, and in hand painted box frames.

Using a fascination with the the natural world to create something that captures a little of Cornwall’s coastal beauty.

Perfect for that special & unique gift! smallwonderscornwall@yahoo.co.uk www.smallwonderscornwall.co.uk 01209 843117

UK MADE - SOLID OAK - SOLID ROUGH SAWN MADE TO MEASURE If you are looking for beautiful hand-made solid wood furniture that lasts for two lifetimes and doesn't cost the earth then visit Kubek furniture in Northgate street, Leicester.

We have over 40 years’ experience in the furniture industry and pride ourselves on providing quality, timeless furniture along with a family friendly personal service. A warm welcome greets you and nothing is too much trouble as we offer a truly bespoke service giving YOU, the customer, the power to choose the size,

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Electrical services for your home Electrical products for your home Domestic electrical legislation & Part P

Energy Saving Specialist Energy saving electrical installations

Call 0116 2246212

Mob 07967 127627

email dave.h@colourhub.co.uk

colour and finish of your furniture. Our solid wood ranges are complimented with a choice of upholstered chairs and sofas.

Our ethos is simple....start with key pieces of quality furniture but there are no rules, create a home not a 'show house' and just 'dare to be different' by mixing styles and colours to give your home the 'wow' factor, compliment with our range of 'quirky' accessories for you're own unique look!

Don't just take our word for it though 'seeing is believing' but, we are confident you won't be disappointed by what you see (or by our prices ) and when you tell us you are 'just looking' we know you will soon be 'just buying'.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank our continually loyal customers over the years and say to our new ones....

Where have you been? www.kubekfurniture.com

0116 251 9509

47-55 Northgate Street, Leicester, LE3 5BZ Mon-Sat 10-5 & Sun 11.30-4 FREE PARKING

The Violet Cafe The Violet Café, NOW OPEN in our Grimsby Store

Give your home a facelift!

The appearance of the outside of your house

in a variety of trades and are more than happy

Visit the large showroom on Kenilworth Drive,

is important, every time you walk up to it that

to offer their assistance in products you might

Oadby Industrial Estate and discover how you

shabby finish will get to you every time and

need and how to go about the job in hand.

could give your home the face lift it deserves!

whilst you can shut the door and decide to ‘think

“All of us here at OBP can offer advice to

about it later’ it won’t leave you feeling good

our customers and we each have an area of

about your home in the long term. Whether it’s

particular expertise, we can help you to find

the leaky guttering that can’t possibly be put

what you are looking for even if you didn’t know

off any longer or a front door that has certainly

you need it for the job. Our advice is always

seen better days, by investing in just a few

honest and drawn from real experience. Always

tweaks here and there you can give your home

has been and always will be!” Director Dean

a ‘facelift’ without it costing the earth and make

Marquis told us.

www.oadbybuildingplastics.co.uk counter2@obpltd.co.uk 0116 2719092 Opening Times Mon-Fri: 7.30am-5pm, Sat: 8.00am-12pm 47 Kenilworth Drive, Oadby Industrial

you proud of your home once again. Plus, with the right materials and advice you can do a lot

To accompany the great prices and advice,

of the work yourself (really!)

Oadby Building Products also offer free local

Estate, Oadby, Leicester LE2 5LT

delivery as well as weekly special offers and

Alternatively, there is a Coventry branch:

Oadby Building Products offer a huge range

products from leading brands such as DeWalt,

of high quality products to spruce up the

Velux and Stanley. A local, independent

Coventry Building Plastics, Unit 9, Henley

exterior and interior of your home and at very

business the team at OBP offer much more than

competitive prices. from UPVC products to

a high street DIY store and pride themselves on

Render, Timber, Guttering and Tools and

providing great products at great prices with

much more besides you can find a whole host

plenty of impartial advice to go with it…what

of ways to spruce up your home simply and

more could you ask for?

effectively. What’s more, the team at the new large showroom have a wealth of experience

Road Ind Pk, Henley Road, Coventry, CV2 1ST, 02476 709009, gary@obpltd.co.uk And a brand new branch in Beaumont Leys: Bradgate Building Plastics, Unit 31 Boston Road, Leicester LE4 1AW, 0116 2353333, info@bradgatebp.co.uk NICHE 73

7 3 St Jo h n s , E n d e r by, L e i c e s t e r, L E 1 9 2 B S

0 1 1 6 2 7 5 1 5 8 6

Leicester’s furniture treasure trove…

As a well renowned family run business,

traditional Victorian style tables with hand turned

is home to an ever growing range of high

and bookcases which will stand the test of time.

established in 1995, Charlie’s Pine & Oak quality furniture available online and from their

showroom and workshop in Enderby, Leicester.

The oak, pine and painted pine ranges are

perfect for giving your home stunning finish that will last for years; from beds and wardrobes to

legs, the chunky perfectly- worn- in wood beds

These special pieces are all made right here in Leicester with the team always on the lookout

for antique and contemporary items which bring inspiration and innovation to their designs.

sideboards and impressive dining tables there is Charlie’s Pine & Oak are also more than happy something for every taste. Sourced carefully and

to create bespoke pieces for you from the range

for affordable prices with many of the collections

approach them with your ideas and see them

selectively the collections offer a timeless look

working well together or separately due to their classic, well-made appeal.

However, with the family team so passionate about wood it’s not only the oak and pine

furniture ranges that Charlie’s offers. With the brothers using their specialist skills to

create bespoke pieces, their own ranges and restoration work from the workshop onsite.

Sourcing reclaimed wood in the UK the brothers

create one offs from carefully selected reclaimed pine, which so far has included the industrial look inspired hairpin leg table and benches,

74

of reclaimed pine furniture available. Simply

come to life! So, whether you are looking for a

one off original design, a bespoke piece from an idea you have or a whole house full of new, well-made designs visit

www.charliespineandoak.co.uk or the showroom at 73 St Johns, Enderby, Leicestershire,

LE19 2BS. Free delivery and installation.

Call: 01162 751 586

w w w. c h a r l i e s pi n e a n d o a k . c o. u k

1.

2.

Inside Out & Outside In

3.

Winter is now well and truly behind us and Spring has sprung! All this extra sunshine and warmer weather makes us itch to get outside and enjoy what nature has to offer.

This doesn’t mean we should neglect our homes inside. On the contrary, celebrate the

4.

new season by having vases of freshly cut flowers on display, especially in hallways, living and dining rooms to naturally fragrance the space and make your home feel fresh and inviting. Switch heavier curtains for lighter sheer fabrics and swap accessories in deeper shades for brighter ones. It’s amazing the difference that switching out a few cushions and throws can make!

On the flip side of bringing the outside into our homes, we can also bring the inside out!

Creating “outdoor rooms” is a great way of adding value to a property whilst maximising its potential. With the amazing range of furniture types out there to choose from it is so easy to have an outdoor lounge, or

5.

dining room or even kitchen! Having that specialised space means you are much more likely to actually get outside and enjoy the great outdoors and with sunny days in the UK sometimes few and far between, an outdoor room which provides shelter and warmth means you can nip outside more often than you otherwise might.

Samantha x 76

1. White Heart Garland, £9.99 by Village Chic www.chrysalisinteriordesign/hotpicks “These pretty garlands make for an attractive decoration either indoors or out. Use to embellish your dining table when entertaining, or hang from branches or pergolas in your outdoor space for a vintage vibe that is very desirable.”

2. Swan Necked Outdoor Kitchen Tap, £179 by inGarden www.chrysalisinteriordesign/hotpicks “For those budding masterchefs among you, a properly equipped outdoor kitchen is a must and no kitchen is complete without a statement tap. This one is cold supply only and fully weatherproof. Oh-so-stylish and practical at the same time.”

3. Fatboy Rockcoco Outdoor Chandelier, £439 by Design55 www.chrysalisinteriordesign/hotpicks “An essential part of an outdoor room is to treat like any indoor room, complete with stylish lighting. This lovely glass-look chandelier is modern and will add elegance to any garden living or dining space.”

4. Benni Rug, £300 by Rose & Grey www.chrysalisinteriordesign/hotpicks "I love Bedouin rugs, they're so chic and glam in an understated way. This new take on the Berber rug features a luxurious thick pile which is gorgeous."

5. Sheepskin/Cowhide Director’s Chair, £325 by SpiritBoutique www.chrysalisinteriordesign/hotpicks “How much fun are these? Soft and comfortable and well made these are perfect for sitting in the garden or for taking to a local Sunday afternoon cricket match. Also available in a cowhide finish. Adorable!”

NEW oom ing ROadby d d e W en in Op

Gift, Baby & Home accessories

Jewellery East of India Handbags Scarves Clocks Greeting Cards Hultquist Emma Bridgewater Gisela Graham One Button Ashleigh & Burwood Jellycat Pilgrim and much more..

Our fantastic new store in Oakham will be opening on April 5th 45 The Parade Oadby Leicester LE2 5BB t: 0116 2719105 Opening Times Monday - Saturday 9am - 5.30pm Free Parking 12A High Street Sileby Leicester LE12 7RX t: 01509 815659 Opening Times Wednesday - Saturday 10am - 4.30pm Free Parking 18 Church Street, Oakham, LE15 6AA Opening Times Tuesday - Saturday 9.30am - 5pm

www.chrysalisinteriordesign.com www.thebeaconmagazine.co.uk

the room interiors

84666_GIFTbox_FP.indd 23

23 26/02/2014 12:27

T: 0116 2707909 E: elizabeth@theroominteriors.co.uk 3-4 Rose Farm Business Park, Leicester Road, Countesthorpe, LE8 5QW

Image by David Cadzow for Bluebellgray

Beautiful curtains,blinds and upholstery.

NICHE 77

homeware Gift Guide Method is all about clean. Clean air, clean homes, clean living.

Available from all ma jor retailers or www.methodproducts.co.uk

New from ICTC and C’est Ça!

– The beautiful Vintage Bird Cage kitchen textile collection.

Gauntlet £ I4.75

Caroline Gardner bright sunshiny day tea towels, 100% cotton, screen-printed, £10.00 www.carolinegardner.com

The Bonnie Marcus Collection, “where fashion meets paper” from Parragon.

Available from http:// bonniemarcus.com & on Amazon.

Space saving spice system that will keep your herbs fresh! Typical in store price £25 for boxed set 6, filled with 12 herbs. www.judgecookware.co.uk

Electric Kitchen Garden Set, 67cm growing tray, a propagator cover, a 12 watt heater matt, five flower pots and two seed trays. £34.99 from www.stewart-garden.co.uk

The Heritage Radio from Goodmans is a nostalgic redesign of the classic radio with advanced DAB features. Available for £129 from www.goodmans. co.uk and www.amazon.co.uk

Strong, lightweight, wipe clean, foldaway, practical, versatile, efficient Space Savers from The Camouflage Company. £24.00 www.thecamouflagecompany. com

The Beautiful Blooms collection embraces spring with its three new floral fragrances; Pink Hibiscus, Lovely Kiku and Champaca Blossom.

Large White Discus Vase £10.79 www.countrybaskets.co.uk

Gone Crabbing - British Seaside Clothing & Gifts To Float Your Boat. Big Crap Apron £15.50 from www.gonecrabbing.co.uk/

VINTAGE STYLE CHALLOCK RED CLOCK, £39.99 from www.charliespineandoak.co.uk

Simple, clean and space-saving Vegetable Chopper from Judge.

Typical in store price £10 www.judgecookware.co.uk

Kyoto is a striking range of serve ware made from sustainable Bamboo with a hard wearing colour coating. Prices start from £5.99 from Amazon

Classic Mirror Vintage £6.47 www.countrybaskets.co.uk

Welsh Herringbone throw, made from 100% pure new wool. Soft, warm and cosy. £45 from www.housekeepingstore.co.uk

Hampson Woods Chopping/ Serving Boards £35 from www.housekeepingstore.co.uk

Gone Crabbing - British Seaside Clothing & Gifts To Float Your Boat. Cocktails At My Place Tea Towel £7.50 from www. gonecrabbing.co.uk/

£3.49 for Slate Coasters.

Available from Amazon

Enamel Baking Pans £32 from www.housekeepingstore.co.uk

78

the room interiors Image by Bluebellgray

NICHE 79

the room interiors

From drab to fab with Plush!

Do you have a chair or sofa in the family that could do with a little TLC? Tired of turning to the same Swedish-chain store?

With so many of us tempted to reach for the flat pack option, it’s a sad story for the all too often neglected time-honoured pieces, from that chair that has been in the family for years, to that maybe not so old favourite sofa that is looking a little tired at the edges.

This needn’t be the case though, you can give those treasured possessions a new lease of life and unearth a world of furniture that has a personality and style all of its own.

Ali at Plush Designs has been rescuing and transforming upholstery pieces for many years and finds great joy in breathing new life into old treasures.

All you need to do is let Ali take a look at your “seen-better-days” chair or sofa and she will take care of the rest, bringing a wide range of fabrics for you to choose from, as well as her own design input and experience. At consultation stage Ali takes into account everything from your budget, the chairs particular era and of course your personality and tastes; it’s from here that Ali sets about restoring the chair and giving it a new lease of life.

Re-upholstering isn’t as costly as you may think; especially when you consider that bespoke pieces retain their value and last a lot longer than their mass produced alternatives!

Not got a favourite chair or sofa, but would still like an individual piece creating?

No problem, Ali is also more than happy to seek out those vintage or retro pieces and re-invent them for you.

So, if you have a favourite chair that could use some love, a beloved sofa that has seen better days, or would like Ali to find that special piece, get in touch with Plush Designs on Tel: 07771 962543 Email: ali@plush-designs.com www.plush-designs.com and Facebook at www.facebook.com/ PlushDesigns

Image by David Cadzow for Bluebellgray

Colourhub for Electrical Services you can trust When it comes to electrical work being undertaken in your home or business there of course is no way to cut corners and rightly so, without the correct training and qualifications electric work can be very dangerous. So, what do you look out for when choosing an electrician?

There are a host of ways to ensure the electrician you choose will be the right person for the job. For example, do they come with good recommendations? What type of qualifications do they have? And when you speak to them do you feel assured of their capabilities and approachability?

David Hall of Colourhub Electrical Services has all the credentials and qualifications you would possibly need, he comes highly recommended and perhaps most notably he has the right commitment to good customer service that makes you feel at ease with any work carried out. He is first and foremost Part P registered (a vital box to tick!) and is an expert in electric services for both commercial and domestic properties. Both aspects of his work include electrical products and services for your business and home as well as landlord services and facilities work. On top of this work David is also a specialist in Energy Saving products and installations in your home!

“It’s really important to me that my clients have confidence in any work that is to be undertaken in their home or workplace, I am always honest with clients and keep them informed every step of the way, no matter how big or small the job. I think it’s important also to help a client understand the work that is being done to an extent so aside from qualifications of course, communication is key to making sure I give good customer service.” David explained.

Perfectly Imperfect Painterly Painterly: A style of painting that does not hide the art of creation, but rather embraces and celebrates the medium it’s created in, be it oil paints, acrylics, pastels or watercolour.

Interior fashions always closely follow the catwalks and this trend is no exception, with Chanel’s spring/summer 2014 ready-to-wear collection showcasing the love for artistic expression to the full.

With spring finally sprung and warmer days just around the corner, we all find ourselves wanting to inject some sunshine into our homes and there is no more perfect way than with the beautiful new range of painterly fabrics and wallpapers that are available this summer.

Paint splodges, splashes and brushstrokes form a striking artistic impression, and small or overblown florals gently create an uplifting mood and feel good factor. Mix the light, airy watercolours with a hint of graffiti to give this look some attitude, a technique perfected by British contemporary impressionist Jessica Zoob.

These new innovative printing methods allow artists such as Zoob for Romo Black and Fi Douglas for Bluebellgray to bring their artistic talents to us all in the form of fabrics and wallpapers. A simple way of adding this look to your home is through accessories in the form of cushions, rugs or an accent chair. If, like me, you have fallen in love with these dreamy painterly watercolours and vibrant brushstrokes, then new curtains and blinds are a must.

To discuss your electrical requirement contact David for an obligation free chat on Tel: 0116 2246212 Mob: 07967 127627 Image by Romo Black

Elizabeth Archer, The Room Interiors E: elizabeth@theroominteriors.co.uk T: 0116 2707909

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Sometimes all you need is to accessorize

Quote Niche Magazine to get 20% off your first order!

Beulah-Home for pieces you will admire forever Decorating your home needn’t mean a whole

inspired by vintage knitted patterns to create

and colour themes with each design working

new re-think and huge budget, a few key well

contemporary designs using traditional knitted

well with each other, perfectly complementing in

placed pieces can transform a space and the

manufacturing machinery. Each design is

a non-matchy matchy way!

high quality, handmade designs at Beulah-

made using the highest quality materials such

Home provide the ideal opportunity to inject

as luxurious cottons, metallic threads and a

Aside from the beautifully individually named

some fresh style into your home at great value.

fusion of natural and man-made yarns. Created

cushions the Beulah-Home collection also

With a stunning collection of unique cushion

in the UK, one of Beulah- Home’s goals from

includes throws, fashionable knitted pet

and throw designs, their home ware pieces

the outset was to create products that would

blankets and perfectly soft children’s blankets.

can transform a room with the subtlety of good,

revitalise the British knitting industry providing

The throws make ideal gifts and will last a

lasting design and high quality pieces. Their

new jobs and investing in traditional skills and

lifetime, perfect for snuggling up with on a cosy

excusive range is updated and refreshed

it’s certainly something they have and continue

evening in or to give your sofa a new lease of

continuously as a natural progression to reflect

to do so as the business thrives. Owner Simone

life! Each piece makes the perfect addition to

a vast range of styles, patterns and textures yet

Harris endeavoured to make Beulah-Home a

your home and the ethos of the company is

their high quality and classic designs means

means to promote the creation of skills and jobs

somewhat refreshing in that it respects and truly

each piece stands the test of time in the style

within Britain, and not just a brand.

supports the skill and craftsmanship that goes

stakes and can complement a huge range of colour schemes.

into creating a Beulah design. Beulah-Home’s The company uses a wide range of skilled

collection adds those finishing touches or

manufacturing technicians, with over 25

provides the ability to rejuvenate a room in your

Each item offers a blank canvas interior the

years of experience. Beulah-Home’s business

home in an instant with timeless, stylish design

perfect accent in vibrant design or, for houses

philosophy is to combine creativity and

that you and your guests will admire.

with interior colours and more décor pieces

innovation with the highest levels of quality:

Beulah-Home will have a design to complement

quality of design, product, service and people.

perfectly. The knitted home ware pieces are

There is something for a wide range of tastes

www.beulah-home.com

NICHE 81

After many years in the pet industry, working with major manufacturer’s, Scott charnock who is well known in the industry particularly from his time as Group business director for Supreme petfoods bought the fledgling Igloo brand with his manufacturing partners and formed Igloo Pets Ltd.

A loo fit for your kitty!

It’s natural to want the best for your pets, whether it’s the food they eat, the location of their toilet or their mode of transport as you take them to the vets or on a holiday!

Igloo Pets are suppliers of unique pet products and accessories. The clever and attractive Igloo is a combined litter tray and carrier which will look great in any home but is also useful as a carrier for trips to the vet by simply removing the privacy plate and locking down the door, as cats are used to using the litter tray they are happy to travel in it as a carrier.

Available in nine attractive colours it’s also ideal for use with the eco-friendly Igloo Snow pet litter which is another handy and affordable product from the team at Igloo Pets. The cool kitty carrier comes with five eco-friendly liners as well replacement carbon filters to help keep your home odour free and your pet happy as can be!

Visit www.igloopets.com to buy one of these eco friendly carriers, email sales@igloopets.com or call 02392 474 676 for more information. facebook@igloopets.com Twitter: igloopets

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Their first task was to find suitable premises and they are now settled in Havant, Hampshire in a 5,500 sq. ft. warehouse where they have their offices and distribution centre. All their products (with the exception of Snow Litter) are proudly manufactured in the UK. “Having our own manufacturing site allows us to experiment with new product ideas across the industry particularly in plastic and silica and has allowed us to also manufacture bespoke colour Igloo`s as own label, we believe there is still room to have fun in this industry and we have many innovative unique products at prototype stage, unfortunately we faced an 18 month period of just coasting due to difficult personal circumstances but are now back on track and excited for the future.”

A life of luxury…

As a nation we adore our pets and rightly so, therefore it’s only natural to want to spoil them. Chi Ki Paws’ range of four poster dog and cat beds, wardrobes and accessories allow for the kind of luxury that our furry friends will love. The unique beds are handcrafted by an experienced joiner right here in the UK and each bed is a unique creation. Luxury is certainly the word that springs to mind, with each piece made using the highest quality in wood and fabrics; 100% cotton covers in a variety of stylish designs, thermal mattress inners and even a removable, washable cover to keep the bedding fresh too. They make a great gift for your pet and for you, they provide luxurious sleeping for them and make a stylish addition to your home, they can be custom made to fit your homes colouring and style for example and the curtains give your pet just the right level of cosiness when it comes to nap or night-time. These beds are not only made from the highest quality materials in the coolest designs but they also offer loads of practicality too, a designated pet bed rather than your cream sofa or Egyptian cotton bed sheets can only be a good thing for your home surely? Washable covers and giving them a place in your home to call your own provides a host of benefits – it’s not all about the spoilt factor!

The Chi Ki Paws boutique is also home to a wide range of accessories including clothing, harnesses and colours for the pooch who loves to be pampered. Chi Ki Paws is owned by couple, David and Helen who are long term pet owners, they know the level of high quality product they would expect for their own pets and bring only the best to their customers as a result; “We have a lovely customer base, with many of our customers regular ones. We feel it’s only natural to want to give your pets the little luxuries in life and so love to supply the products that allow the public to do this for them!” Boutique owner (and pooch lover) Helen told us.

Providing that little bit of luxury in our pets lives makes us all the happier for it...after all, if they are happy so are we!

Visit www.anypaw.com to spoil your pet for life.

NICHE 91

Talk Business Leicester is fast becoming one of the UK’s biggest locations for business talk, with some of the best conference centres around, our fabulous transport links and regular networking events it’s the business place to be! Read on to discover just some of the best conference centres, networking events and businesses Leicester has to offer.

www.collegecourt.co.uk 60

8 Words That Will Make You More Money!

Every business needs to use the written word, every day, and for every medium. But are you using the right words, in the best way? Here are 8 words that will change the way you write everything for your business….

Whether it’s a website page, a blog, a sales letter, or a social media post, using these 8 simple rules, you will get more enquiries, and close more sales – Guaranteed!

1. TARGET: Think about your client base and where they are to be found. If you are selling Pensions to over 50’s, they probably won’t be found on Twitter.

2. HEADLINE:

Grab attention with a killer Headline... You’re reading this right now, and how many times have you seen this one? ‘It’s A Ticking Time Bomb’ and did you read it? That’s because it works..

3. RAPPORT:

Show that you are human and even have a personality. Leave out all jargon and technical terms. People just expect you to know the technical stuff, after all, they are engaging you as the expert; otherwise they would do it themselves..

4. FAB: Features, Advantages, Benefits (yes, that old one) but people don’t buy a drill because they want to own a drill, they buy an easy way to make a hole in the wall. Tell them how their life will be better with your product, not that it comes in blue or brown…

5. EVIDENCE:

or service for you.

Always back up your claims with an example. A good story sells your product

6. OFFER: What's the deal? I know I need it, but why do I need it NOW? Tell them, but always give a time limit or close date.

7. CALL to ACTION: What do you want people to do next? Don’t assume they know. Tell them to ‘click here’, or ‘visit the gallery to choose’, or ‘’book an appointment’. You would be surprised at the number of quotes that people send without a call to action at the bottom!

8. RESPONSE: How should people contact you? Don’t forget that some people prefer to email,

some prefer to speak on the phone, and so don’t lock out half your responses by not including both options.

So now you have all 8 boxes ticked; you have the perfect written text for every occasion – except for the spelling and grammar that is..

A family law firm with real expertise in its field as well as a heart….

Family Law requires a special kind of solicitor. It requires a solicitor with a humane touch as well as legal acumen. A solicitor who understands people and who can provide information in a professional and personable way. After all, if you need to approach a family law firm for advice it probably means that you are going through one of the most difficult times of your life and getting the right family solicitor can make such a difference to how you cope with the dramatic changes you are likely to be facing.

Glynis Wright Solicitors are a very highly regarded family law firm who pride themselves on recruiting family solicitors who are enormously experienced but also sensitive to the needs of their clients. The practice is based in the City Centre of Leicester. They are absolute specialists in family law matters and family mediation. Since Glynis Wright set up the practice in April 2011 as a sole practitioner, her practice has grown rapidly as a small and trusted team of family law experts.

Glynis says; “I believe that the success of my practice is due to the strong reputation that we have built up as specialists. Unlike most legal practices, we choose not to diversify into other areas of law such as conveyancing or probate work. We live and breathe family law and also believe strongly that all family solicitors should try to resolve family law cases out of court and amicably where possible. This is very attractive to members of the public who prefer civilised divorces to the alternative which is a stressful and costly court battle. Each team member brings something different to the practice but we are all united in this core value of managing divorce and relationship breakups for our clients in a better way. This is one of the reasons why the practice has grown so quickly despite the economic difficulties facing most businesses.”

If you have any enquiries about any family law issue such as divorce, cohabitation breakups, disputes over children or family mediation, you can contact Glynis or any of her team at Glynis Wright Solicitors on enquiries@glyniswright. co.uk or telephone on 0844 225 2790. The team will welcome the opportunity of speaking with you personally. You can also visit the website of Glynis Wright Solicitors at www.glyniswright.co.uk or the mediation website at www.familymediationleicester.co.uk

NICHE 85

What are the benefits linked to social media?

One of the common problems is that some small businesses still aren’t clear of the benefits of social media and this can see them trailing behind their competitors. A recent study found that only around 65% of SMEs use social media!

There are numerous benefits linked to businesses using social media, including: • Improved communication with customers; • Increased brand awareness and customer loyalty; • Driving relevant, targeted traffic to your website.

• Building trust - people are now much more likely to check out your social media profiles before making purchases from you!

Used correctly, social media can create more leads and drive more sales for your business!

What are the best social networks for small businesses?

• •

It really depends what sort of business you’re in.

For professional services, Twitter and LinkedIn are very effective. For an artist, Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram might be more appropriate.

Once you know this, you can use tools like Google Analytics to track the number of leads you’re getting. We can help you to set up goals in your analytics account to help you track your leads.

It’s not all down to the big social networks either – there are hundreds of niche sites out there that could really help you to target your key audience very effectively, especially if your competitors aren’t using those same niche sites.

If you want to track leads coming from contact forms on your website, it’s worth setting up a separate folder so that all those emails go to one place making it much easier to see how many leads you’re getting.

Our key tip: It’s really important to understand what’s of interest to your target audience, which networks they are using and when.

Our key tip: Define what a lead is to your business and setup the necessary processes to track where they are coming from.

Why invest in social media when I'm already investing in Google AdWords?

If employing a company such as Tiernan Marketing, does my business still have to dedicate time to promoting the business online?

There isn’t a ‘one size fits all’ answer to this. For some businesses, using Google AdWords is the right choice – as long as it’s used effectively and you’re really making it work for your business.

However, there are benefits to using social media that go above and beyond what Google AdWords and other pay-per-click (PPC) advertising can do for you: 1.

You can monitor what is being said

about your business and respond quickly; 2.

You can connect with your customers

on a personal level; It’s not really about just choosing one channel for your marketing and here at Tiernan Marketing we tend to work on integrated campaigns – making sure that any AdWords, social media and search engine optimisation (SEO) channels all work together to maximise your opportunities.

Our key tip: Use the data from your PPC to strengthen your social media activity rather than seeing them as individual channels to be managed independently of one another.

How do I know if social media is generating leads for my business?

In order to answer this, you first need to define what ‘leads’ are to your business. Are they: • Phone calls?

86

Completion of contact forms?

Downloads?

• • •

It’s essential that you have clear goals for your social media, which should be tied to your overall business aims. For example, if your overall goal is to increase sales, have a think about what percentage of those sales should come through social media.

Our key tip: Remember the 80/20 rule – only 20% of the content you put out on social media should be promotional, with the other 80% being thought leadership, tips, industry news, etc.

Why should I choose Tiernan Marketing?

Here at Tiernan Marketing we endeavour to create long lasting relationships with our clients through an honest and open dialogue. We are proud to offer flexibility in our pricing as we understand that small businesses don’t have huge budgets.

When you’re employing a company to manage your social media, there will always be an element of input required from your own business. The online marketing process is a two-way street – the more information you can provide, the more we are able to help (after all you know your business and your customers best).

We are small enough to care about your business and big enough to cope with your requirements.

We never charge for consultations to discuss your requirements and from there we will create a tailored proposal that suits your needs and budget. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us and let’s arrange a chat to see how we can help you.

We create content calendars for our clients which are then populated with information from both myself and from them. This helps to plan out what events/news/etc. we can put out over a 6 month or 1 year period, as well as allowing us to see where the gaps are. This gives us a great starting point for content creation – whether that’s blogs, infographics, videos, imagery, etc.

Phone: 07828 052516 Web: www.tiernanmarketing.co.uk

Our key tip: Give your social media consultant as much information as possible for them to ensure an effective campaign. For example, if you have an event coming up you need to let your consultant know so they can advertise it on the relevant social media platforms.

What should my company aim to achieve with social media?

Each business is individual in their needs but the overall general goals for social media include: • •

Increasing brand awareness Increasing leads/sales

Improving customer service Being seen as a ‘thought leader’ Building trust

Which social media platforms are right for your business?

With so many social media platforms out there it can be difficult to select the right ones to use for your business. For small businesses, it can be difficult to manage more than two or three platforms effectively. We’ve pulled together some key statistics for the top social media sites to help you decide which ones to use and when…

Facebook

Twitter

Google+

Key statistics: • Over 31 million users in the UK • Largest age group is 25-34 • 49% of users are male | 51% of users

are female

Key statistics: • Over 15 million users in the UK • 80% of Twitter users are active on

mobile devices

When to post: • Between 1pm and 3pm weekdays and weekends

Key statistics: • Around 4 million active UK users • 62% of users in the UK are male • Largest age group is 25-34

When to post: • Between 1pm and 4pm Tuesday to

Thursday for promotion • Thursdays and Fridays gain most engagement What to use it for: • Engaging with your audience by

creating conversations • Telling your business story (make use

of the timeline features) • Creating competitions and special

offers for your fans • Promoting events

What to use it for: • PR and networking • Customer service and support • Customer testimonials Top tips: • Although there are 140 characters

available, try and stick to 120

characters to allow for retweets; • Use a link shortener like bit.ly to give

you more room for what you want to say.

Top tips: Pinterest • Don’t over-promote your products and services.

Key statistics: • Use photos and images in your posts • Over 2 million UK users (July 2013)

and keep updates short and snappy.

• In the UK, the majority of users (52%)

are male LinkedIn • Most popular categories are food

& drink, home décor, DIY & crafts, Key statistics:

art and design, although UK users • Over 10 million users in the UK

are searching mostly for venture • Largest age groups are 25-34 and

capital, blogging resources, web

35-44

statistics, SEO, marketing and public • 52% of users are male | 48% of users relations!

are female When to post: When to post: • Between 2pm-4pm and 8pm-11pm • Weekdays between 7am-9am, • Peak time for posting is Saturday

lunchtimes and 5pm-6pm What to use it for: What to use it for: • Promoting products • Acquiring new customers through • Promoting projects or ideas

word of mouth and recommendations • Driving e-commerce sales • Sharing your expertise • Personal expressions – giving an • Building your network

insight into the personalities behind • Getting ‘warm’ introductions to people your business.

you want to connect with Top tips: Top tips: • Share industry-relevant information • Use Pinterest as a visual shop window

and news;

for your business; • Answer questions in groups to • Particularly useful for driving

demonstrate your expertise.

e-commerce sales.

When to post: • 9am-11am • Evening hours should be avoided What to use it for: • Building a network of relevant people • Participating in communities • Boosting your SEO efforts • Getting found locally via your ‘Google Top tips: •

•

Use the ‘Circles’ feature to segment your audience; Having a Google+ account means you can ensure you retain authorship of your original content.

If you need some help creating your online marketing strategy or selecting the right social media networks for your business, get in touch for a free consultation by calling 01664 434854 or emailing us at info@tiernanmarketing.co.uk.

NICHE 87

Earn Extra Income!

Working From Home

Catalogue distributors & team leaders needed Part time hours to suit £50 - £500+ per week Opportunities throughout the UK and Ireland Full member of the DSA & OFT

Call - 0116 298 6859 www.letsearnmore.co.uk

Anna Padfield is is an independent Kleeneze distributor with her husband Nick, they have been doing it now for nearly 6 years, at first they joined to earn a bit of extra cash for Christmas and earned nearly £1000 in the 3 months running up to Christmas, job done Nick thought but Anna thought they had built a little customer base, why let it go?

So with a bit of prompting Nick agreed to carry on and was he glad they did, in the next year in one 4 week period near to Christmas they earned £1200 and this was around other work commitments.

So now they show other people this very simple business helping them to earn extra, the nature of the pay plan Kleeneze has put in place id brilliant as it ensures you help the people you introduce to Kleeneze and Kleeneze reward you for doing it. They have been rewarded with a colour TV and an all-expenses paid trip to New York.

There is free full training at all stages, whether you just want to retail or team build. They love the flexibility of it and the fact that you do not have to be a sales person as the catalogue does that for you, making it an opportunity for absolutely anyone over the age of 18. There are retired accountants, civil servants, nurses, firemen, carers, single mums and students all running their own independent Kleeneze businesses from home.

For more information go to www.letsearnmore.co.uk or call 0116 2986859

Give your event the edge Sometimes it’s best to call in the experts and when it comes to pulling off an event successfully the experts we recommend are the professional and friendly folk at Hi2Events. An experienced and innovative company which specialises in the planning, production and management of bespoke events, the team pride themselves on attention to detail and providing a high quality of service.

Bringing Events to Life We specialise in the planning, production and management of creative, tailor-made business events from start to finish.

Hi 2 Events had great contacts in the Algarve and Italy for Conference and Incentives.

Working closely with both customers and suppliers, our team delivers creative, tailor-made solutions from start to finish.

Tel: 0116 240 2330

Email: info@hi2events.co.uk

Hi 2 Events, Fleckney, Leicestershire, LE8 8UH

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Hi2Events are a team made up of dynamic, talented and committed individuals who all have a wealth of planning and event management experience ensuring your event will be a resounding success. By working closely with both customers and suppliers, their team delivers creative, tailor-made solutions from start to finish.

“We create effective business events and memorable incentives. We know that every event is as individual as our customers. The programmes that we create are unique and based on each projects profile, objectives and budget. We are happy to work with you and your ideas, or come up with our own entirely, it’s up to you! From the initial enquiry through to the event itself we provide dedicated managers to ensure that every aspect of your event runs smoothly –allowing you to be free to concentrate on enjoying the event along with your guests.” Company Director Elaine Vandelli comments.

About our Portuguese Events: It can be difficult to put together an event that leaves all the delegates excited about what’s going to happen and where they are going. But there is one part of Europe that will make any Meeting, Incentive, Conference or Exhibition really stand out. We can create an event that everybody will remember – in Portugal. With custom built venues, world class accommodation, a great all year round climate, beautiful views, coastlines and golf courses; the Algarve has everything you could ever want from a conference or incentive destination.

Established partnerships. We have established partnerships in both public and private sector within the Algarve and work closely with a range of suppliers to co-ordinate marketing and promotional activities.

So, if you are planning an event and would like to discuss how Hi2Events can help you contact Elaine at info@hi2events.co.uk or call 0116 240 2330 or visit www.hi2events.co.uk

John Power - MAAT, ACCA Torr Waterfield: A Business Built on Trust When it comes to seeking out an inspirational business duo who have built their business up from scratch you won’t find many more inspiring than Mark Torr and Mike Waterfield of Torr Waterfield Accountants, Leicester.

Having worked together for over 24 years now Mark and Mike know their business and as a result are recognised for their refreshingly human approach to your business accounts.

The duo took the plunge to start their own firm over 14 years ago now and have built a strong business with great integrity whose firm roots as a business built from the bottom up have helped make them one of the most respected accountancy firms in the Midlands.

With an emphasis on building positive and lasting relationships with clients Mark and Mike know the challenges businesses face, having been at the helm of their own business from the start they can appreciate the people and the difficulties behind the numbers. Torr Waterfield started life with a base on London Road and a small tight knit team of accountants and staff; they soon outgrew this property but ensured they found a suitable new home for the business with plenty of parking within the city centre close to the action. The team has now grown to 28 staff and the client list is ever expanding as their reputation for good, professional, approachable and honest accounting grows with it.

Their service repertoire includes audit, accounts preparation and support services such as payroll, bookkeeping, tax advice and business start-ups. So, if you are looking for an accountancy firm that is not only top of their game professionally but is friendly, approachable and understands your business too contact Torr Waterfield today: CALL: 0116 242 3400 Email: info@torrwaterfield.co.uk Park House, 37 Clarence Street, Leicester LE1 3RW

Discover the power of social media for your business….

Thinking of starting your own business?

As a business (and human being on this planet!) you will be aware of the prevalence and importance of social media in this modern age. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest… the list of technologies and ways at which modern communication and socialising can occur is ever expanding - the good news is these platforms are a cost effective way to reach your target audience. However, how many of you businesses feel a little out of touch when it comes to Social Media? This is an all too common problem, it may even leave you feeling that social media presumes everyone knows how to use it! Plus, it’s one thing to use it in some form for your business but whether or not you use it effectively is a very different matter… here are some benefits of how I can help your business.

There is nothing quite like being your own boss,

What are the benefits for your small business?

Many small business owners are still unsure about the benefits of social media, SEO and PPC. We hope to change that! Here are just a few online marketing benefits:

about it? This is a vital reality check before you

•

in place to support both you and the business

• • • • • •

A bespoke strategy that suits your specific business; Learn more about your customers and clients; Use the knowledge of your clients to build better relationships with them; Gain relevant, targeted traffic to your website; Improve your reputation; Build brand awareness; Increase customer loyalty.

For more information of how I can help your business then check out my Q and A on page ..

Or why not call us for a chat about how an online marketing strategy could benefit you.

Phone: 07828 052516 Web: www.tiernanmarketing.co.uk

but with up to a third of new businesses failing within the first three years, proper research and planning are the keys to success.

Here are a few tips to help avoid being one of those failures: Start with making sure the market exists for the product or service you are going to provide, at the right price and in the right location. Consider why customers would want to buy from you and not your competition – what is your unique selling point, and how are people going to hear go any further.

Prepare a business plan. A cash flow forecast is vital – make sure you have adequate funds through the early days. Have an experienced advisor to look through your business plan with a critical eye. Adjust the plan and forecast as you move forward. Remember you are not Mystic Meg - things never go exactly to plan and you will need to adapt.

Manage your time – try to work smart, not hard.

Ensure you have ticked all the regulatory boxes – speaking to a good accountant and solicitor makes this the easy bit! www.powerthompson.co.uk

NICHE 89

World class conferencing facilities Let College Court exceed your expectations.

bedroomed luxury hotel. Each conference

are also able to offer private dining in Lady

room offers its own unique style and purpose

Hester which boasts opulent surroundings and

building gives a stylish nod to its 60s roots

with staff dedicated to finding the right room for

seating for up to 14 guests where you can enjoy

in a contemporary way. Close to the vibrant

you and your delegates. Guests will be able to

a sequence of dishes capturing the delight of

city of Leicester and its ideal transport links

enjoy three acres of botanic gardens in addition

great food, flavours and aromas with a theatrical

College Court has fast become Leicester’s

to the landscaped grounds and courtyards

feel to your dining experience.

leading location for business meetings. You can

within College Court, creating a Leicester City

also relax within its fine dining restaurant and

Centre venue with the tranquil and serene feel

For an informal surrounding at the end of

luxurious hotel.

of a countryside escape. The restaurant, or

your conferencing day the College Court Bar

The Knighton as it’s called, is wonderfully

provides an ideally relaxing and social setting.

The newly reinvented Grade II listed ultra-cool

Accommodating your conferences, business

unique with the menu often featuring innovative

Complete with a wide range of drinks and

reinventions of 1960’s food and drink. The

bar menu as well as a bespoke wine list and

two of you or 160 the facilities are more than

dedicated culinary team love nothing more

mouth-watering homemade specials, the bar’s

ideal for you and your business. With its

than to create dishes that are not only mouth-

Garden Lounge has comfortable seating with

meetings or event needs whether there are

professional yet welcoming atmosphere, and the wateringly delicious but also uses local seasonal big screen television, board games and a location being ideal, College Court is surrounded produce that gets their diners talking. Beautifully

stunning view over the extensive landscaped

by established trees, landscaped gardens and

presented a Knighton dish is always flavoursome gardens. For overnight guests the hotel has an

quiet residential streets providing a relaxed

and modern.

impressive 123 bedrooms, so is more than ideal

atmosphere.

As you enjoy The Knighton’s gastronomic

if your conference requires attendees having

delights you will be thrilled at your surroundings,

a relaxing and comfortable overnight stay.

With standard executive rooms and 9 individual

Benefiting from a wide range in different

the unique yet cool 60’s décor is a light and

conferencing suites College Court is home to

vibrant ambiance created by the wooden

suites, all guests, whichever room required,

18 conference rooms, a 166 seat restaurant,

panelling, leather seating and warm and

experiences an immaculate level of service and

welcoming hospitality. However College Court

elegantly designed rooms. You can expect free

bar and business lounge as well as a 123

Wi-Fi, fast speed broadband; telephone, tea

tranquil surroundings and a wonderful dinner

and coffee making facilities, iron and ironing

and overnight stay in the hotel. The world class venue.

board, and all executive rooms and suites have private balconies. Guests can also experience

venue is located within easy reach of the M1

and M69 motorways and is only 1.7 miles from

free access to two state of the art nearby leisure

Leicester Train station. East Midlands Airport

clubs further enhancing

is also located less than 30 minutes away

their stay.

and Birmingham International Airport only 45 minutes - all making it the perfect place for your

The hotel is gaining quite a reputation both in

conference or stay in Leicester.

the area and across the UK, located onsite next

A flexible, friendly team are at the helm at

to the conference centre it offers the ultimate in

conference or event at Leicester’s most iconic

Look no further than College Court’s four star standards to provide you with exceptional levels of service and facilities for a wide range of conferences and events in the heart of the UK.

College Court who are more than than happy to

convenience, as well as epitomising the same

discuss the different conference packages and

high standards as the conference facilities so

options they offer to ensure your conference

however far your guests have travelled they

or event is exactly as you would want. Please

can enjoy a stress free conference in luxurious,

contact a member of the team to book your

www.collegecourt.co.uk TEL: 0116 244 9669

NICHE 91

Up, up and away?

As your business grows our accountancy knowledge means that we can maximise your profits and minimise your tax liabilities to ensure that you rise to the highest level.

To have a chat about how we can help you and your business give us a call on our free advice line.

FREE ADVICE LINE:

0800 652 1614

info@torrwaterfield.co.uk www.torrwaterfield.co.uk Park House 37 Clarence Street Leicester LE1 3RW

92

The Future of Pre-Nuptial Agreements Sushma Kotecha, Family Solicitor & Mediator at Glynis Wright Solicitors based in the City Centre of Leicester says:

“Prenuptial agreements are going to become more common moving forwards and should not be seen as a tool for the wealthy elite”.

The Law Commission proposes that Pre-nuptial Agreements should become legally binding.

Currently Pre-nups are not strictly enforceable or legally binding in the UK. So, if the marriage breaks up the Court will not be bound by the terms of the Agreement and may overturn the same in the interests of fairness. The existence of Nuptial Agreements (Pre or Post marriage) will be only one of the factors the Court will have regard to when determining financial claims between spouses upon separation/divorce.

UK judges have a wide discretion under the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 and currently that discretion cannot be fettered.

Pre-nups, Post nups and Pre-Civil Registration Agreements cannot exclude the jurisdiction of the Court to deal with financial issues on marriage breakup or the breakup of a Civil Partnership.

The possibility that Prenuptial Agreements may become enshrined in Civil Law is causing concern for some who believe that this will undermine the sanctity of marriage and the vows that are taken, “For better or for worse ... in sickness and in health...”

However, Pre-nuptial Agreements have already become part of the matrimonial finance landscape as result of the landmark case, Radmacher V Granatino in 2010. In this case a German heiress persuaded the UK Courts to enforce her Pre-nuptial Agreement securing wealth inherited/built up prior to marriage Since this Supreme Court decision, lawyers should be advising that the existence of a properly drafted Pre-nuptial Agreement will determine an application for financial remedies subject to the three conditions:

1. The Agreement was freely entered into; 2. Both parties had a full appreciation of its implications; and 3. To uphold the Agreement will allow for fairness.

There is now an assumption that a Marital Agreement freely entered into by a couple with full understanding of its implications, will be upheld by the Court unless it would be unfair to do so.

The old philosophies that such Agreements are void as contrary to public policy because it envisages the end of marriage are outdated and no longer current law.

The report from the Law Commission, Matrimonial Property Needs and Agreements, includes a draft Bill that if made into law would bring legally recognised 'Qualifying Nuptial Agreements' into effect. This would enable married couples and civil partners to make binding agreements about how their property or finance should be shared if the relationship breaks down. This will save separating couples the uncertainty and extortionate costs of legal proceedings.

Prof Elizabeth Cook, Law Commissioner for Property, Family and Trust law has stated: “Qualifying Nuptial Agreements would give couples autonomy and control, and make the financial outcome of separation more predictable”.

The Commission has proposed safeguards to make sure that the Agreements cannot be used to impose hardship on either party, or to escape responsibility for dependent children or to burden the State.

We at Glynis Wright Solicitors welcome the Law Commission’s recommendations and concur with Prof Elizabeth Cook. If the draft Bill is accepted it will turn case law into law and provide certainty and clarity in this area of law that is long overdue.

Glynis Wright Solicitors is a highly successful niche family law practice situated in the heart of Leicester on Bowling Green Street. If you would like more information about Nuptial Agreements or any other family law related issues, please call Sushma Kotecha on 0844 225 2790 for an initial free telephone consultation or visit www.glyniswright.co.uk or www.familymediationleicester.co.uk

NICHE 93

We are Xact Display, the exhibition and marketing specialist.

We can provide you with everything you need for an event or exhibition, from glass showcases for a product launch to AV and stands for an exhibition, we have it all. We specialise in giving you the tools and resources to market your business online and offline. whether you are on the road exhibiting or need help and guidance with your online marketing we are here for you.

01455613418

JLo Logistics provide freight forwarding and shipping by sea, land and air. In today’s competitive JLo we Logistics freight environment believe provide that it is vital to listen to forwarding and shipping by our clients needs, fulfilling them effectively sea, land and air. In today’s and competitively.

competitive environment rner to aroun the co d th to werobelieve that it is vital und ew a orld m o listen to our clients needs, r F fulfilling them effectively and competitively.

1 Holmes Close, Groby, Leicestershire LE6 0BU

info@xactdisplay.co.uk

0116 2874624 1 Holmes Close, Groby, Leicestershire LE6 0BU www.jlo.uk.com Phone- 01162 874624

www.xactdisplay.co.uk

www.jlo.uk.com Help to stop abuse… arm yourself with knowledge

FREEDOM PROGRAMME FACILITATOR TRAINING 15th & 16th May Venue: 1325 Project, Leicester Freedom Programme Facilitator Training is a Domestic Abuse training course for professionals.

The course consists of 2 days training on the Freedom Programme model, looking at: • • • • •

Persona’s of the Dominator Tactics and beliefs Society’s reinforcement Beliefs held by victims The impact of domestic abuse

Enter our Give us your best NO MORE face competition SEE WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION TWEET WITH

#NOMORE

BOOK NOW email: clare@clarewalkerconsultancy.com See website for more information and testimonials.

www.clarewalkerconsultancy.com Clare Walker Consultancy 07910371045 • 0116 2202001 T: @clarewalker3 F: Clare Walker Consultancy L: uk.linkedin.com/in/clarewalkerconsultancy

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Clare Walker has made it her personal mission to provide the right form of education for those working with abused people through the groundbreaking Freedom Programme. As one of only six licensed trainers in this programme in the world Clare and with years of her own personal abuse behind her she has certainly got her work cut out but is undeterred in the fight to get professional people armed with the right knowledge to provide the right level of important care and assistance for those who need it that she didn’t have.

Through training days across the country Clare has been providing life changing information which essentially peels back the many layers to the human mind and behavioural set in order for professionals to understand the root causes and effects of certain behaviours - thus enabling them to do their jobs well. The training is ideal for a host of professionals with varied backgrounds such as lawyers, care providers, healthcare professionals and just about anyone else that works with humans!

Despite the very difficult subject matters at hand Clare works to provide vital training in a relaxed and open atmosphere. The value of attending a course for any professional in the field is huge, with many previous clients who have received extensive training in other forms expressing just how life changing it is to be aware of the information within the Freedom Programme. However it’s not only training days that Clare uses to get the right message across, she recently did a stand-up comedy act at Leicester’s finest comedy festival and it was an astounding success so much so that Crimestoppers have successfully sourced funding from PCC (Police Crime Commissioner) to take the successful stand-up comedy event; Black & Blue Monologues on the road locally.

Upcoming training days in the Midlands: 15th & 16th May 2014 Visit www.clarewalkerconsultancy.co.uk to book now and for further information.

Revolution Birmingham: The Grand Re-Launch The UK’s favourite cocktail bar, Revolution has

impressive Globots quite literally lit up the room.

and a quirky yet elegant finish making it the ideal

brought change to Birmingham after choosing

The lucky guests in attendance got a taste of

setting for long lunches, after work cocktails and

its venue in the Five Ways Leisure Complex

what to expect from the new-look venue and

late night fun.

on Broad Street as the latest bar to receive a

were treated to canapés and cocktails with

complete overhaul. A six-figure investment has

hostess table service throughout the night.

The bar’s general manager, Nav Singh, said:

transformed the existing site to enhance its offer

Furthermore, Revolution showcased its largest

“We are looking forward to welcoming back

as a premium drinking and dining venue.

ever cocktail menu to date, with its expert

existing customers to our new-look venue, and

mixologists inviting guests to take part in their

we hope the refined concept in this busy leisure

own mini-cocktail making master classes.

complex will also encourage new custom. The

The bar officially re-opened on Saturday 12th April with a grand party where 1,200

re-launch party was amazing and we’ve had

guests received a VIP welcome as they were

Located in the heart of Birmingham city centre,

some great feedback already. We’re proud of

greeted by paparazzi on arrival, and given

the site, in the prominent Five Ways Leisure

all the changes that have been made, but the

complimentary cocktails and premium bottle

Complex has been completely renovated and

pièce de résistance has to be our brand new

beers. Entertainment included live music by

offers a brand new bar complete with VIP

mezzanine bar!”

The Retrozettes, local saxophonist aka ‘Dax

booths on the balcony – providing the perfect

on Sax’, showgirls and hypnotist magicians. A

spot for private parties and intimate groups.

For further information, please call

photo booth on the balcony bar provided the

The impressive new-look venue offers plush

perfect opportunity to capture the moment, and

surroundings throughout, hostess table service

0121 665 6508 or email

birmingham@revolution-bars.co.uk

NICHE 95

A unique venue for a unique event The Athena Leicester is one of the city’s premier venues providing excellent facilities and attention to detail right in the heart of the city amongst the cultural quarters finest. Refurbished and maintained to meticulous standards Athena welcomes you for your events, whether to cater for your corporate functions or your big wedding day the Athena is the place for you.

Weddings of all sizes are a particular specialty of Athena’s with Asian weddings their forte and the team are more than happy to help with anything from sourcing decorations and entertainment and of course catering to a huge variety of culinary delights. With an emphasis on what you would like to help make your wedding a day to remember, whether the whole day’s proceedings or for your evening reception the

Stretton Circuit Team Fun! It’s good for your workforce to get out of the office every once in a while. The opportunity to give everyone a chance to let off steam and bond as mates can do wonders for team morale and ultimately their productivity after. Stretton Circuit provides the perfect opportunity for your team to do exactly that!

With a floodlit 850m Go-Karting circuit you can race your colleagues and have a stack load of fun in the process! The Niche Team went along to test out their new 60mph twin engine prokarts….here’s our verdict….

“A few members of the team had expressed a strong desire to do something altogether that was fun and gave us a chance to let off some steam, when we discovered the championship circuit at Stretton we knew we had found the perfect fun day out! They offer both Go-Karting and Paintballing but we chose the Go-Karting as only one of the team had ever had a go before. We arrived for our session and were greeted by a friendly team who took us off for some training. We watched a clear and straightforward DVD which explained the use of different flags amongst lots of other safety advice and then

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team will advise and assist is any way which suits you so that everything goes according to plan. All the cutlery, glasses and a great deal in the way of table the venue even has its own bridal suite so that the happy couple can relax in their own space for their big day.

Facilities at your disposal include a great deal of space for dancing and dining, state of the art sound systems, large projection screen, DVD connections, Microphone usage and when it comes to the all-important catering for your event the possibilities are endless with a dedicated team offering a selection of food of your choice for up to 1,000 guests. Three bar areas and on site free parking make it the perfect venue right here in the heart of the midlands for your event, for anywhere from 100-1,000 guests!

got changed into our gear. After a quick photo with the team it was time for our test drives – which were really good at showing us just how much fun was in store! We chose to do a race with our team to give us a competitive edge to it all and then it was time for the real deal! The real deal was amazing! So, so much fun. Speeding round the track, overtaking each other all whilst avoiding near crashes was all a lot more high energy and fast paced than I imagined, it’s like real life racing car driving. We had such a laugh and the time went so quickly, as it does when you are having fun. We can’t recommend it enough and all want to go back for round two. We are definitely making it a regular thing!

Loved it.” Sally Smith Niche Editor Comments.

Arranging an event at Stretton Circuit is easy.

Simply call the team on 0116 259 2900 and they will discuss the best format for your group.

There is no minimum number although many of their events cater for groups between 10 and 80 drivers. If you don’t have a need for speed and go karting isn’t for you there’s always paintballing at Stretton too!

Visit www.strettoncircuit.co.uk to find out more!

“We welcome any potential hosts to come for a visit and a chat at our venue, take a look around and find out how we can help make your event one to remember. We pride ourselves on finding ways to make your event unique…just like you!” Athena’s ethos.

So, whether you are looking for a premier venue to host your corporate or charity event or a location for your dream wedding day visit www.athenacb.co.uk or call 0116 262 6556.

Athena Queen Street Leicester LE1 1QD

Dance the night away with Midlands Pro DJ The party element of your big day is what many of your guests will remember and talk about for years to come, and what makes a party get into full swing? The music of course!

You need to get your guests moving, get their arms in the air and their heels off…Midlands Pro DJ’s are the perfect music men to get the party started - and to keep it going til the end!

A family run business, Midlands Pro DJ was started back in 2004 by identical twins Ian and Brian McIntosh.

With a mission from the very start to ensure every party is enjoyed by all, the team at Midlands Pro DJ cater for all music styles, with guests revelling in the carefully selected play lists played out by expert DJs or one of the many musicians on their books. Delighting in diversity of music choice, the Midlands Pro crew can accommodate any music choice with their endless library of music and extensive musicians on the books.

Their repertoire of professional, friendly and approachable team members is very high, the ever growing team are all trained to an exceptional standard, they are passionate about music and entertainment and most importantly, adamant that your party is one you and your guests will never forget! “Our goal is to make your wedding as stress free, fun, and enjoyable as possible, allowing you free time to enjoy your special day. As it should be.” Midlands Pro DJ’s mantra.

A quick chat with the team will encourage you to book right away, you will quickly see that their infectious energy and enthusiasm means your party will be nothing but fun!

Call: Bryan McIntosh : 07929452287

Ian McIntosh : 07875290818

Email: info@midlandsprodj.com www.midlandsprodj.com

NICHE 99

Financial & Life Planning Investment Management Pension Accumulation At Retirement Income Solutions Savings & Investments Protection Mortgages Estate Planning & Wills

Information is abundant and free, insight is priceless.

If you are concerned about the performance of your existing pension plans or would like them amalgamating into one easy to manage arrangement, then you might be interested in our “Pension Performance Review�. This will provide an independent assessment of the performance and risk of any current plans, and where relevant recommendations as to how this might be improved.

We have access to market leading investment solutions offered by wealth management institutions or alternatively access to simple low cost solutions where appropriate.

Our passion is to truly understand what is most important to you in your life. We listen, understand, plan and deliver - turning your life goals into reality.

After all, its more than just money, it is your life. As our business strapline states...

90 72

Please contact us on 0116

216 8500 to start a new conversation.

Nursery Court

T: 0116 216 8500

Kibworth Business Park

F: 0116 216 8499

Kibworth Harcourt

E: info@dynamic-wealth.co.uk

Leicester LE8 0EX

W: www.dynamic-wealth.co.uk

Dynamic Wealth is a trading name of Fairstone Financial Management Ltd. Fairstone Financial Management Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority - FRN: 475973. Part of the Moneygate Group.

PLANNNG FOR SUCCESS DYNAMIC WEALTH – IT’S MORE THAN JUST MONEY

Self-employed?

This week I thought I would talk about investments and the challenge of making the right investment decisions.

Get Tax Savvy and Save!

There is no doubt that the impact of the credit crunch has created a climate of fear that challenges our ability to make long term strategic decisions and be truly confident in where your money is invested.

Salary £10,000 tax free. Company directors need to use this tax free amount in a clever way and think about the £2000 employer’s national insurance relief available this tax year. As well as benefits in kind which could use up some of the tax free money in a more tax efficient way.

The ability to stick to proven simple fundamental rules of successful investing and to avoid being dragged into fads or fashions is not easy. Neither is it easy when short term valuations are not what we would like.

Interest Interest charged on loans to your company during the recession can yield corporation tax relief at twice the rate of the personal tax charge. So ask yourself, ‘’does your business owe you!?’’

Our simple guidance would be to; •

Dividends If you take the full £10,000 tax free salary, you could take an additional £2,350 in dividends before being charged higher rate tax.

Select best of breed fund managers so that the management fees charged are justified through the management Child benefit tax Those of you with young children drawing more of performance and risk than £3,200 in salary and dividends per month, need to be mindful that anything over £3,800 • Understand the benefits of the per month could cost you child benefit tax. As

wide range of Managed Portfolio an example, for a 2 child family, every pound

Solutions (MPS) offered by Wealth

Managers and now available via good drawn over £3,800 per month will be taxed at 45%. Careful planning looking at the years to

Independent Financial Advisers come and what money you’ll require personally, can help you avoid losing too much in tax.

• Consider the use of simple low cost

“passive” portfolios where a simple Corporation tax and VAT

low cost easy to manage approach is Declare your profit’s this year while the tax preferred rate is lower and save your large investments Finally before you make any financial decision take the time to really understand your attitude to risk, capacity for loss and and how your specific planning objectives might influence the type of portfolio you might choose to use.

Tight Lines!

0116 216 8500 www.dynamic-wealth.co.uk

in plant and machinery until after 31 March 2015 to make use of the extra-large assets relief allowance. The VAT threshold this year is £81,000, but remember there is a Flat Rate Scheme for small businesses with a turnover between £81,000 - £150,000, this may prove more tax efficient.

Xact Display: Helping you display your vision.

The way you put your business across is everything, whether it’s through direct to customer marketing, advertising or at exhibitions or events, how people perceive and remember you will ultimately shape how successful your business is. Important stuff. Xact Display know the importance of this and are one of the UK’s leading exhibition stand, display equipment, technologies and accessory providers, their mission is to help you stand out from the crowd with over 20 years experience and expertise that is unrivalled in the field.

“We found that many of our clients needed more than just the equipment for their exhibitions and events, they needed some support too. We found that so many of them simply didn’t have the time or resources to put together the kind of stand or exhibition that would show them in the best possible light. We knew we could help them with all of it, from as little or as much input as they like and help them to put themselves out there in the most effective of ways.” Company Director Craig Sparrow told us.

Saving you time and resources the Xact team take the pressure off you and provide each of their clients with a tailored solution based on your vision. You can be assured of their strong capabilities in getting it right for you every time.

With so many exhibition organisers advising clients to use their resources for a fee, many clients simply aren’t getting the choice or personal service that’s out there, the chance to make their exhibition stand that extra bit special, that extra bit more noticeable, with Xact you are getting high a quality personalised package that will ensure that you and your company stand head and shoulders above the rest.

The above points should be used a guide and if you feel there is some tax to be saved, please contact Dominic Payne to review the situation in full and advise accordingly.

Contact Xact Display to chat about what they can offer you and your company today :

www.whitehallaccountants.co.uk

www.xactdisplay.co.uk

0116 288 99 99

01455 613418

NICHE 99

Prestige Specialist Cars: A Team to Trust How do you feel about buying a car? Worried about your credit rating? Feel like you aren’t sure who to trust? If this sounds familiar look no further than the brilliant Prestige Specialist Cars Ltd- a family run business right here in Leicester who have a huge range of high quality vehicles as well as a team with the very best support and advice.

Established in 2009, Prestige has helped so many people to gain car credit facilities from their conception. The close knit team of financial experts can provide the right finance package for every customer, even if your credit rating is

experience in the automotive retail industry and have gained an excellent reputation for delivering a quality service. We appreciated that when it comes to purchasing a car many customers are nervous about the process, the money, getting credit or simply from knowing what it the car for them. It’s our job to put our customers at ease, to show them their options and give them space to make sure they are choosing the right option for them. I think that’s why people keep coming to us over the years, they know that we operate on an honest and open policy, they know that they can trust us basically!”

poor or you’ve defaulted on previous payments,

You can find the very best in Audi, VW, BMW,

or even had CCJ’s, the name of the game for

Land Rover, Jaguar and pretty much any other

Prestige is to help in any way that they can.

major car make with a team offering great

Owner Mr Pender comments; “We have years of

prices, great service and therefore customer

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satisfaction every time. Once your identity is verified, the team will find a respected lender with Close Motor Finance, VTG and VOSS accreditation, they then tailor a package to match your needs.

Visit the showroom to see the great value for your selves or call today and their team will be more than happy to assist you in finding the right vehicle for your lifestyle requirements!

787 Uppingham Road Leicester LE7 9RQ tel: 0781 556 4836

info@prestigespecialistcars.com Find us on Facebook!

PROTECTING YOU, YOUR HOME OR YOUR BUSINESS Extinguish Fire Solutions Ltd • Extinguisher Sales & Service

• Fire Alarm Systems

• Fire Safety Signs

• Free Full Site Surveys • Domestic Home Vehicle Packs Available • 24/7 Emergency Call Out

• Hose Reels • 5 Year Guarantees • Fire Training

• Fire Risk Assessments

Fire Extinguishers To Kite Mark BSEN3

☎ 0800 013 1666

www.extinguish-fi re.com Email: info@extinguish-fire.com www.extinguish-fire.co.uk Email: info@extinguish-fire.co.uk Fire Safety: Who is responsible?

Many of us thankfully know the dos and don’ts when it comes to fire safety in our own homes, but what about when it’s a shared space?

Like flats or a work place for example? Who’s responsible for what and what can you do to ensure its done right? We decided to take a look at Leicestershire’s Fire and Safety website to find out more...

People living in rented or shared accommodation are seven times more likely to have a fire. About 400 people die a year in house fires and not having a smoke alarm doubles your risk. So with this in mind, who’s responsible for the right equipment in a communal place? If you live in a privately rented accommodation your landlord has to meet certain safety obligations by law. This includes that all gas and electric is safe and all furnishings are fire resistant, they should also supply certification for your gas and electricity appliances and the checks as well as carbon monoxide testers provided. If you are unsure whether or not your landlord is doing things right contact your local environmental health officer through www.direct.gov.uk to check.

What about Businesses? What should they be doing to keep employees and visitors safe?

Well, businesses are all under the Fire Safety Order 2005 and its one of Leicestershire Fire and Rescue services responsibilities to ensure that all businesses fall under the requirements of the act. The key to compliance is to undertake a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment and to review it regularly (or as and when circumstances change). The act itself provides guidelines for businesses for such things like fire extinguishers, fire escape plans such as evacuation, correct alarms in place and regular drills and tests to take place. The act is ordinarily maintained by specific ‘responsible’ individuals who are given the role of Fire Safety Officers by a workplace.

Further guidance and information relating to enforcement and regulations contained in the Fire Safety Order can be found by visitingwww.gov.uk/dclg or should you have a specific query or concern relating to a business and the act contact Leicestershire Fire and Rescue on : 0116 2872241. www.leicestershire-fire.gov.uk

Welcome to Power Thompson, Chartered Accountants in Leicester, providing a personalised service to local

business owners and individuals. For help with any of

your accountancy and tax needs, please give us a call. All initial consultations are free of charge.

Would you like...

•

Fixed competitive fees;

•

All work 100% guaranteed;

•

Unlimited phone support;

•

To make more profit;

•

Unlimited free meetings;

•

To pay less tax;

•

A free tax review;

•

Someone to sort all your paperwork;

•

Work on time, every time;

•

An accountant who speaks plain English.

www.powerthompson.co.uk 0116 270 9228

info@powerthompson.co.uk NICHE 101

A venue for all to enjoy St Martin’s House of Cathedral Square in Leicester is a venue whose open house policy means that everyone can enjoy its splendour, whatever the event you have in mind. The Grade II listed building enjoys a rich history that was for over 130 years a place where the youth of Leicester were educated, and so with major refurbishments taking place in the building in 2011 the venue has a wonderful mix of original features with contemporary design all helping to create a warm yet cosmopolitan feel to the building. Its location makes it one of the most sought after venues in the city, especially with the area gaining a great deal of regeneration work just recently. The Historic quarter of the city is a vibrant place to be and with the building standing on the foundations of the fort that was the basis for Roman Leicester, its Leicester’s Heritage at its finest!

Welcoming you into the venue to host your charity event, business conferences or indeed for your special wedding day, a small team of expert planners and event co-coordinators work closely with you to ensure your event is exactly as you hope it could be. The Grand Hall provides the perfect backdrop for your event and can accommodate up to 200 people! Its vaulted ceiling, stained glass window and massive 12 meter ceiling height means your event will have all the grandeur you could hope for whilst retaining just the right level of a welcoming and somehow intimate atmosphere. The flexibility of the hall means it can accommodate a variety of purposes and can easily be used and adapted for conferences, meetings, exhibitions and of course those special occasions.

Fully equipped with all the latest audio-visual equipment and providing free Wi-Fi, The Grand Hall is serviced by its own bar facility enabling your guests to relax in comfort and style. When it comes to the all-important dining, St Martin’s House have a variety of catering options so

that you can choose to eat pretty much what your heart desires and your budget allows! “We take great pride in providing quality catering using local caterers wherever possible. From a small, simple yet sumptuous sandwich buffet through to a complex sit down three, four or five course gala dinner banquet (and everything in between!) Our team will work closely with you to ensure that your specific requirements - and budget - are fully considered in the caterers available to you. We will provide the right catering for your event, brief and budget. We are also more than happy to provide catering to cover specific dietary requirements. Please just let us know what you need and we’ll make sure we find the right caterer for you!” Nick Quinn, General Manager.

Nick explained. Catering for a small, intimate gathering or a grand affair, the commitment from the team is exactly the same; to help to give you the day that surpasses all your expectations!

The team are committed to providing all you could possibly need and with a great, reliable contacts list they can recommend and arrange for everything from your decorations to your chair covers for you, meaning you can sit back and enjoy the event build up worry free.

conferencing equipment, you can be assured your guests or delegates will be more than impressed. From a small meeting for four up to a 200 delegate conference or press event St Martins are committed to ensuring the day is a success.

All events at St Martins are handled with the utmost of care with the co-ordinators keen to help your event make the most of this exceptional building. Upon enquiring or visiting The nearby Cathedral Gardens are currently the centre you will immediately be struck by going through some really wonderful the feeling that it’s a venue for all of us to rejuvenation, which provides the perfect enjoy, whatever your event right in the heart opportunity for your wedding photos and a place of Leicester; that it’s a true community venue for your conference delegates to get some fresh that is an exciting addition to our continuously air and to relax during breaks. The gardens improving city centre. make this prime city centre location even more Ideal for your big day, the venue sits right next to special with their unique mix of city edge and relaxing, picturesque green space.

St Martin’s Cathedral and Guildhall, so whether Speak to the team to discover how they can you are having a religious ceremony or civil help make your event one to remember for all With Leicester fast becoming one of the UK’s one you and your guests can enjoy just a short the right reasons. stroll to their reception at St Martins House. Your prime locations for conferences, perhaps due dedicated co-ordinators will be on hand as point to its excellent transport links and thriving www.stmartinshouse.com businesses, St Martin’s is the fitting for your of contact from your initial enquiry right through CALL: 0116 261 5200 conferences, meetings and even charity gala’s. to after the event itself, with near enough no Email: nick.quinn@stmartinshouse.com With great parking rates at the nearby Holiday request too big or too small! “There is no detail too small and no challenge too big and with our Inn car park and exceptional conferencing facilities such as a wide range of suitable rooms 7 Peacock Lane proven expertise and professional service you Leicester are guaranteed a bespoke wedding experience, to choose from including of course the Grand LE1 5PZ Hall and state of the art sound systems and tailored to surpass your highest expectations.”

NICHE 77

Cathedral Gardens Taking Shape Guests at St Martins House and indeed visitors to the city centre can soon enjoy one of Leicester City’s most exciting developments.

Cathedral Gardens are being transformed in a £2.5 million project to transform this communal area at the heart of Leicester’s Cathedral Quarter. The garden marks an exciting chapter for the historic story of Leicester. City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “Cathedral Gardens is a wonderful vision for a calm oasis at the heart of the city centre. I am delighted we have been able to work in such close partnership with the Diocese to help deliver this fantastic project.

Along with our investment in the new King Richard III Visitor Centre, the development of Jubilee Square and improvements to Guildhall Lane and Applegate, Cathedral Gardens and the improvements to Peacock Lane will represent another major step forward in our plans to make this historic part of the city centre even more attractive. We want to create a setting for our city’s wonderful cathedral that everyone can enjoy and be proud of, and I am delighted that work is nearly complete.

Cathedral Gardens will create an attractive, new public space in front of Leicester Cathedral, with areas of lawn, trees and flowerbeds, new seating and a water feature, and incorporating the much-loved and beautiful cobbled walkways of St Martins East and West running alongside the Cathedral. When complete, the gardens will combine the cathedral precincts with the grounds of St Martins House, to create a space large enough to host outdoor events with seating for up to 800 people.”

The exciting development of the Cathedral Gardens is a wonderfully positive approach to providing both residents of Leicester and visitors with somewhere to relax in green space and to enjoy this historic area of Leicester. www.cathedralgardens.dioceseofleicester.com www.stmartinshouse.com

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THE CHANGES IN THE BUDGET MEAN GOOD NEWS FOR SAVERS! Julie Langton brings Niche readers the latest from the Budget and what it could mean for you….

Chancellor George Osborne announced “We are backing a Britain that saves” and delivered a budget that, from the onset, looks to do just that. The great news means thatyou will be able to increase your tax efficient savings and have greater flexibility over your pension.

I have summarised the budget highlights for you below. However I recommend that you contact me to discuss what these changes mean to you.

2014 Budget Highlights ISAs

• The annual ISA allowance will be increased from £11,520 to £15,000 from 1st July 2014 • This increase will apply to a single ISA, which combines the current Cash ISA and Stocks & Shares ISA allowance • The Junior ISA limit will also be increased to £3,600 from 1st July 2014 Pensions • As of April 2015, pensioninvestors that are 55 or over will be able to take the whole of their pension in cash with the first 25% being tax free and the remainder taxed at their marginal tax rate • The minimum income requirement for flexible drawdown will be reduced from £20,000 to £12,000, effective 27 March 2014 • The maximum income limit for capped drawdown will be increased from 120% to 150% of the Government Actuary’s Department calculation of an equivalent annuity, effective 27 March 2014 • There will no longer be a requirement to buy an annuity from April 2015.

I believe it is important for you to be able to monitor the performance of all your investments through the use of the award-­‐ winning technology at True Potential Wealth Management.

If you wish to learn more, please speak to myself on Tel: 0116 2711031 Mobile: 07753 190899, julielangton@tpllp.com, www.julielangton.tpllp.co.uk. ​ I will also be having a Cheese & Wine Open Office on Wednesday 11th June 2014 from 5.30pm­‐8pm at my delightful office at Stoughton Grange Farm, Gartree Road, Oadby Leicester LE2 2FB.

The Perfect CV Trust me, as some-one who views hundreds of CV’s every week, CV’s are easily taken for granted.

Your CV is your only chance to make your first impression. It is a snapshot of you, so your experience and personality must shine through.

It tells your story, highlights your achievements and sets your aspirations.

Start by tailoring your CV to every opportunity you are applying for. Read through the job description / advert, highlighting qualities required. Where will you add value? How can you evidence those crucial skills? Use positive language throughout, be proud of your CV, your achievements and confident in your own abilities.

Keep the layout clean, sharp and professional, ideally on two pages, with no long paragraphs.

Do not include photographs or your DOB. Ensure correct punctuation, grammar and spelling throughout. Proof read several times, and then give to a trusted friend to check too.

A Personal Statement must be a short, succinct paragraph to grab attention. What are you looking for from your new role? What personal skills / qualities will you bring? Avoid generic, meaningless “power phrases” such as, “A motivated, hardworking team player with the ability to also work on own initiative”!

For work experience, start with your most recent employment and work back. Create bullet points to highlight your key responsibilities and skills. Evidence your significant achievements, including how that benefitted your business.

Cover any gaps in employment with a brief description of how that time was utilised.

Use the personal interests section wisely. Avoid the old “Reading, going to the gym and socialising with friends”. Keep it simple. Two lines highlighting your interests and what really motivates you in your spare time can be an interesting conversation point in an interview!

It may seem time consuming to review your CV for every application, but after all, if you don’t use your CV to its full potential, then how will a prospective employer use it to establish your potential?

SimkissGuy Logo.pdf

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Building your team in the right way Finding the right people to join your business is no easy task, it can be challenging and incredibly time consuming. All too often simply putting in the hours alone to find that all important new team member is just not feasible for so many businesses. Then there is the danger of simply not getting the right person for the job; the effects can be devastating on individuals and the culture of the business as a whole.

Office & Graduate recruitment specialist Director led service, from start to finish

SimkissGuy Recruitment accept nothing less than getting it right for you and your business, in fact they believe this so strongly that they offer a 12 week 100% guarantee period if something unexpectedly goes wrong! Providing the right staff for you all starts with developing true partnerships at SimkissGuy, allowing them to be there for you and your business whenever you need to recruit; “Our approach is very simple. No sales, just outstanding service. We have never “cold called” businesses to offer our recruitment services, it’s always been about being there for businesses and being able to really understand our clients even when they aren’t needing any recruitment, then, when they do need us we already have a strong working relationship; we know our clients and what they need.” Becky Simkiss and Richard Guy told us. To ensure this, SimkissGuy always meet you in your workplace so they can get to know you, understand the culture of your business and the dynamics of your working environment.

Allowing them to build a full profile of not just the immediate job opportunity, but the attitude and ambition needed for your vacancy.

This personal touch is so important for you and your business, the value of knowing that your recruitment firm simply understands your business means they can find the perfect match for your team, saving you time, money and an awful lot of angst! SimkissGuy develop equally strong relationships with their candidates too with considered, in-depth consultations to really understand individual career paths and aspirations for the future, so much more than form filling! They even personally deliver 12 cupcakes to each successful candidate in their new job making that first day with their new colleagues a smoother one!

0121 262 4070 simkissguy.com

“At SimkissGuy we like to think that we are a part of your existing team and our working relationship is so very important to us, ultimately we are thankful that our clients choose us time and time again and in return we ensure they get the very best from us.” Becky enthused.

Contact SimkissGuy today to receive a friendly, professional approach to your recruitment needs.

Visit www.simkissguy.com, call 0121 262 4070 or email: hello@simkissguy.com

NICHE 105

Improving lives for people with sight loss Vista is a registered charity providing a vital network of services to people with sight loss across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, from rehabilitation, social groups and befriending through to specialist residential care.

The charity works hard to support vulnerable people within local communities, tackling loneliness and isolation to make sure that every person they work with experiences real human contact. They run a number of social groups across the city and county, and have a dedicated helpline offering information, advice and support.

One of Leicestershire’s longest standing charities, Vista supports almost 6,000 blind and partially sighted adults and children, and their families, each year.

In the past year alone, they have supported almost 400 children, providing specialist leisure activities, holidays, music therapy and offering much-needed support to families both at home and in the community.

Losing your sight is a life changing experience, and many people can feel isolated or lose their confidence. Vista is there from the point of diagnosis, working in hospitals and clinics to provide information, advice guidance and support when it is most needed. Their friendly, experienced teams work to teach people with sight loss new skills and provide specialist equipment and tools to help them continue to do the things they love.

Vista has two homes for older people, which offer a specialist service for people with sight loss and dementia. The charity is passionate about the care they provide and dedicated to improving the lives of their residents with sight loss or dementia and their families. Their highly trained team are committed to providing the highest standards of care in a safe, comfortable, ‘home from home’ environment.

“Vista has changed my life and made me feel that I am part of a community. Who knows what the future holds, I know I’m 96 years old – the future is not always top of my mind – but what activity I can do next is.”

Vista is the leading provider of services to blind and partially sighted people in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. Call our helpline on 0116 249 8839 or visit www.vistablind.org.uk.

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The Vista shop, based on Hotel Street in Leicester, acts as a city centre hub for anyone requiring information, advice or guidance about sight loss and offers a wide range of specialist equipment and products from daily living and mobility aids to talking clocks and watches, mobile phones and assistive technology.

Fundraising and donations are vital to help Vista ensure that every local adult and child who is blind or partially sighted can receive the specialist care and support they need. Whether people would like to fundraise on their own, with family or a group of friends or colleagues, there are plenty of ways to get involved!

The charity has places available for the Leicester Marathon on 26 October and would love to hear from any runners interested in joining them.

To find out more, call 0116 249 0909 or visit www.vistablind.org.uk.

Julie Langton

Wealth Management Partner True Potential Wealth Management

Discover your True Potential Wealth with the help of Julie Langton When it comes to your finances how many of

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Testimonial

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NICHE 107

Fantastic F-TYPE Coupe ENZO Ferrari described the E-Type Jaguar as the most beautiful car in the world. Yet the E-Type that Jaguar founder Sir William Lyons first showed off at the Geneva Motor Show back in 1961 was a fixed head coupe while the open top roadster waited in the wings.

It took more than 50 years before Jaguar was to produce another two seater sports car when the F-TYPE arrived last year – a sensuous convertible with awesome performance. Now comes the F-TYPE Coupe and it has even more venom.

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

It is an interpretation of all of Jaguar’s heritage in a car that is bang up to date. Made entirely from aluminium the coupe is not only light in weight – the R tips the scales at 1.6 tonnes which is little more than a MINI – but it is also very rigid.

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

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

The coupe is available in ultra high performance R specification with an astonishing top speed restricted to 186mph and supercar acceleration of 0 to 60 in four Perhaps it looks its best in bright salsa red with seconds dead. chrome detail in the side vents and around the windows highlighting the smooth lines. A spoiler pops It is a firebrand in every way and described by Jaguar up from the tailgate at motorway speeds adding the as the most dynamically capable, performance focused equivalent of 18 stones in weight to the downforce car it has ever made. That’s a big claim but the F-TYPE while the design of the rear window is a straight R lives up to it by demonstrating amazing agility and flashback to the E-Type. balance. Fitted with torque vectoring control and an electronic active differential it manages the huge Inside, as with the F-Type convertible the cockpit amount of power the 550ps supercharged five-litre is intimate yet high tech and functional. Golden V8 engine pumps through the rear wheels with finishes on the starter button and drive mode selector complete composure. separate them from the other controls while an eight-inch colour touchscreen for the sat nav, onboard Shod with carbon ceramic brakes – a £7,400 option computer and communications systems sits below a on top of the £85,000 asking price – the new Jaguar bank of retractable vents which emerge from the top showed its mettle when put through its paces on a of the dash when the climate control race track in central Spain. The stopping power is is activated. immense reining in the car surely and swiftly from speeds in excess of 150mph while through the Although the coupe has a much more practical boot sharpest of bends and cruel cambers the handling was than the convertible – 315 litres to the parcel shelf faultless as the systems kept the car in check. which translates into enough space for three flight The noise from the four exhausts – artificially cases – it is still purely a two seater and side vision to

the rear is limited. A parking camera is a must and the power operated tailgate is another useful option.

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

The coupe is available now with the R model being the flagship of a range that also includes two three-litre supercharged V6 versions priced from £51,235 for a 340ps model or £60,245 for a 380ps F-Type S Coupe.

While not quite as devastatingly quick as the F-Type R they are still out of the top drawer of Jaguar performance cars. Both V6s hover around five seconds 0 to 60 and all F-Types have eight speed quickshift auto gearboxes with a stop/start system.

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

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

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

It’s British sports car motoring at its best. www.sturgess.jaguar.leicester.co.uk 0116 416 1081

445 Narborough Road, Leicester, Leicestershire, UK, LE3 2RE

NICHE 109

enables microscopic clarity during biopsies.

As well as changing the face of treatment, the funding from LFBC has seen the Breast Unit attract the best medical teams from around the UK. Who's involved?

LFBC began with a dedicated and passionate group of volunteers back in 2000, and still boasts the same dedication 13 years later.

Veronica Kumeta remains Founder and Chairman of Ladies Fighting Breast Cancer and was awarded 'Most Inspirational Woman of the Year' at the 2013 West Midlands Women of the Year Awards. This comes following her nomination as Pride of Britain Local Hero back in 2011. The charity is also shortlisted for ‘Excellence in Contributing to the Community’ in the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce Awards 2014.

Veronica is supported by three influential Patrons; Lord Digby Jones, Katie McPhilimey (Editor, Live 24 Seven Magazine) and Martin King (Managing Director, Signia Wealth).

These Patrons continue to act as the ultimate Ambassadors for the charity; raising awareness for the disease and cause, as well as bringing new fundraising opportunities to the team.

An introduction to the UK's only regional charity for Breast Cancer Where it all began Ladies Fighting Breast Cancer was established in 2000 by Veronica Kumeta and the late Sue Macmaster, after their friend Carol Knaggs was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. Having raised money for Breast Cancer before the idea was to control where the money went, rather than giving it to national charities, so they contacted the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham. With a packed calendar of fundraising activities, all of the money stays within the West Midlands, helping Breast Cancer patients within a 70-mile radius of the hospital.

Sadly, Carol lost her battle with cancer, as did Sue when she was later diagnosed with the disease. But their legacy lives on and despite losing two close friends, Veronica continued with the charity and recruited a group of local female volunteers in 2000, with the aim of raising both funds and awareness of the disease.

Since 2000, Ladies Fight Breast Cancer has given over £1 million to the QE's Cancer Unit, which has helped fund new medical equipment and create a 'centre of excellence'. This equipment includes a Mobile Mammogram Trailer to allow up to ten women an hour to be x-rayed in their local area; an Ultra Sound Scanner for diagnosing breast disease; a Cooling Cap to reduce hair loss during treatment; and a Faxitron X-Ray Machine that

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The charity activity is led by a team of proactive and passionate people that form the Appeals Committee. This group is made up of charity Trustees and a number of hand-picked volunteers that bring contacts and expertise to LFBC. Supporters LFBC boasts a wealth of supporters – both businesses and individuals – that have helped to raise over £1 million and now form part of a crucial team to raise the next £1 million by June 2015.

Harvey Nichols, The Mailbox, Quilter Cheviot, Jury's Inn Birmingham, Edgbaston Priory Club, Symphony Hall, Genting, Birmingham Chinatown Lions Club, LTA, Got2Sing, Symphony Hall, Henry Wong Harborne, HCB Solicitors, Birmingham Business Breakfast Club, HYPOXI, and many more.

The support provided by these businesses ranges from employee donations and fundraising activities, to FOC venue hire and raffle prizes.

How is money raised?

LFBC hosts a packed calendar of events every year, which will include lunches, dinners, awards dos, quizzes, shopping showcases and high profile sporting events. The ticket prices for events will cover costs (although costs are always kept to a minimum) with all other profits going directly to the charity pot.

In addition to this, companies and individuals often choose to support LFBC through their own activities. Whether that be the Charity of the Year, a bake off, skydive, marathon or dress down day. The charity is now also looking at corporate opportunities such as Payroll Giving to drive further donations.

People can donate to LFBC in a number of ways, including cheque, JustGiving and by the 'text to donate' number, which automatically donates £5 to the charity.

As the charity is run solely by volunteers, costs are kept to a minimum and the maximum amount of money goes to the QE Hospital, rather than contributing to employee wages and other unnecessary overheads. Even the rent for the charity's office – situated at Birmingham Chamber of Commerce – is privately sponsored.

Some of the great brands and businesses on board include: Selfridges, House of Fraser,

Paradise Pillows The Paradise Pillow has been designed and especially shaped to relieve pressure on the under arm and breast region following surgery.

For further information please contact Linda on 01492 582819

www.paradisepillows.co.uk

Venus Awards are Launching in Birmingham and Niche become official Sponsors!

The Venus Awards are newly launching in Birmingham this year - their inaugural awards event makes a splash in November 2014 - and then they will roll out northwards across the rest of the northern regions. The event was founded

by Tara Howard in Dorset and has spread across the South of the country during the past five years.

A launch event for Birmingham will be taking place in May, following which nominations will open and you will be able to nominate and vote 'online' on the Venus Awards website for the various categories. Event Group UK are the Regional Partner for the awards in Birmingham and next year for the North of the country.

The event is all about recognising women in business and what sets it apart is that the planning team want it to be fully-inclusive of a variety of sectors; some of which aren't recognised in business award ceremonies currently.

I attended the Bristol awards on March 21st with Julie Smith from (New Hall Hotel & Spa in Sutton Coldfield) The Venus Awards Launch Venue.

Julie is one of the 'Venus Awards Ambassadors' we both had an amazing evening and the feeling's experienced we could not prepare for. The emotion and a real feel good factor! It was so inspirational to hear the women's stories that had been nominated and see the finalists and Winner's receive recognition not only for themselves but also for their team and working partners who were all elated. It was so lovely to be a part of. The atmosphere you really can’t help but get caught up in which was just electric for the Ladies and Gents! We all can't wait for the Birmingham awards…..my advice: take the tissues!

‘Johnson’s VW Tamworth’ have sponsored the awards and are an associate sponsor! A ‘Venus Beetle’ will be driving around Birmingham very soon! Facebook a picture of the beetle and go on to Venus awards Facebook and / or Event Group UK and go into a draw each to WIN a meal for 2 at New Hall Hotel and Spa. E info@eventgroupuk.co.uk for further details.

Want to know more: www.venusawards.co.uk E: joanne@eventgroupuk.co.uk

Together with the charities they have formulated a list of categories that are inclusive of women in all stages of their career path across both the private and public sectors as well as the Academic, Medical, Arts, Volunteers, Retail, Engineering also Charity and CarerRoles to mention just a few.The Business Mother category is sponsored by Heart FM, The New Business category is sponsored by NatWest, PA of the year by Simkiss Guy Recruitment and we at Niche Magazine are proud to be sponsors of the Inspirational Woman category!

“With a majority of our team comprised of women we feel honoured to be sponsoring the Inspirational Women in Business category it really is, in our opinion, such a strong category and one of great importance. So many of us women manage to balance it all, working life, family life and social and its these women who help us to feel inspired and encouraged by to keep going on those manic days when the balance is a little tricky! It’s great that these women are recognised in this way and great that we get to show our support for them by becoming a sponsor. We are thrilled to be sponsoring this category!” Jenny Cross, Cross Productions Director. Other sponsors include The Chamber of Commerce and X2 Print to mention a few!

The main charity is 'Ladies Fighting Breast Cancer' Vanessa Kumeta 'LFBC' and Tara Tomes East Village Agency are Venus Ambassadors and together with the other members of the Venus Ambassadors are the driving force behind the Venus Awards.

Midlands Air Ambulance (Jo Bailey) and Edwards Trust (Stephanie Bradbury) have the opportunity to receive a percentage of the sponsorship packages that will go directly to them, which is a great CSR opportunity for companies/ organisations with only one business per sector they are going quickly!

We have the Feel Good Factor! Regional Partner for The Venus Awards in Birmingham, Event Group UK, Joanne Gilbert-Lewis.

NICHE 111

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Travel in Style Whether it’s a weekend’s break away from it all or a full on family holiday you are after there’s nothing like a change of scenery or culture to rejuvenate! Our mini guide to some of the best locations to travel to, whether at home or abroad should get your travel bug juices flowing…

www.drakesofbrighton.com NICHE 33

Top places to stay Top areas to stay in the UK!

1. Brighton

cultural capital, it is also a great place to visit.

Glasgow has a vibrant nightlife so is perfect for the night owl who can visit any number of restaurants, pubs, clubs and cafes in the city.

Brighton is our top spot this issue, by the sea and culturally pretty much one of the coolest places we have on our shores it’s one of the most cultural cities in Europe. Oozing creativity and cultural kudos from every pore, Brighton entertainment offers a hotbed of Festivals, galleries, museums, film, nightlife, comedy and theatre making it the ideal area of choice when looking for a place to spend a weekend away.

2. Glasgow Glasgow is often slightly forgotten about as so much is said about Edinburgh yet Glasgow has long been established as an excellent place to live, work, rest and play. As a major European

3. Lake District For a calmer and more outdoorsy feel The Lake District is world renowned for its stunning landscapes so perfect if you love the fresh air.

Views of glittering lakes against a backdrop of rugged mountains have inspired poets, writers and artists for centuries, and continue to attract thousands of visitors today who visit in search of scenic inspiration and outdoor adventure.

4. Truro, Cornwall Newquay gets a lot of the Cornwall chatter so we have picked Truro for our number 4 spot!

Centre stage is Truro’s impressive gothic revival cathedral that towers over the town. In its shadow a warren of back streets are home to dozens of independent traders selling all you need from funky fashions and cool surf wear to locally made bread and Cornish cheeses.

With a yearlong festival programme, weekly food markets and several art galleries, Truro is a cultural gem.

5. Sark Sark is just brilliant for the nature lovers amongst you, for those who truly want to get away from it all. The island of Sark, fourth smallest of the Channel Islands, nestles in the English Channel just off the Normandy coast. Part of the Bailiwick of Guernsey, but with its own parliament and laws, Sark is unique: British but somewhere completely different.

Boutique Brighton drakes of Brighton is a stunning boutique hotel situated on the iconic seafront. Its décor is perfectly matched to the town’s cool edge and their warm and friendly welcome make it a top four star hotel with true personality. The building is an attraction in itself, with two Georgian Townhouses in one and an array of stunning period features combined with contemporary designs making it one of Brighton’s most exciting accommodations. The 20 bespoke rooms provide far more than a bed for the night; with breath taking design and sharp attention to detail, a drakes room effortlessly creates the atmosphere of a stylish and luxurious home from home. Most rooms benefit fantastic sea views and all boast the utmost in luxury and comfort with handmade beds dressed in Egyptian cotton and velvet throws, monsoon wet rooms or deep free standing baths ensuring total relaxation. A favourite haunt of the presenters and performers of this world, (to name drop a few…Woody Allen, Kylie Minogue, Benedict Cumberbatch) drakes has the feel of a Members Only Club but is open and available to all. At the very heart of the drakes philosophy is the desire to see guests as friends coming to stay. drakes is never stuffy or formal, but is about an escape from everyday life in an ambiance of relaxed glamour.

The restaurant provides one of Brighton’s most acclaimed fine dining food experiences (having received the highest score of all Brighton restaurants in The Good Food Guide 2014, for the 5th consecutive year). Head Chef Andy MacKenzie is passionate about delivering an accomplished range of Modern European dishes, specializing in local and seasonal menus in the superb surroundings of their intimate 40-cover restaurant. The strong wine selection complements the regularly changing and evolving menu with an excellent selection of New and Old World wines as well as award winning, boutique grower and local English Sparkling wines.

Gourmet and Romantic Dinner, Bed and Breakfast Packages can be booked to fully indulge in both the fabulous rooms and restaurant – perfect for a relaxing getaway or to celebrate any special occasion.

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www.drakesofbrighton.com

01273-696934

info@drakesofbrighton.com

Brighton BN2 1PE

Relax and unwind at La Sablonnerie Hotel Want stunning views? Unpolluted air? To hear the calls of wild birds? To meander and explore a beautiful island?

If these sound like the items on your dream destination check list then look no further than La Sablonnerie hotel.

Nestled on the beautiful island of Sark, just a few miles from Guernsey and reached only by boat, La Sablonnerie is the perfect destination for those that want to get away from it all for a relaxing break.

This beautifully decorated 22 bedroom hotel offers its guests a break like no other. Having been established back in 1948 it has delighted many guests in its pretty surroundings and comfortable modern amenities ever since, whilst retaining its 400 year old Sark farmhouse charm. The La Sablonnerie restaurant offers some of the finest food on the island, with many customer a regular customer, you will delight, just like they do time and time again, in the fresh ingredients, lovely atmosphere and tantalising menu.

www.drakesofbrighton.com

Pulla Farm Holidays Truro, Cornwall.

Situated on the part of the island affectionately known as Little Sark, the hotel’s island is just 3.5 miles long and yet offers a wealth of opportunity to meander; explore the caves, do a spot of fishing, take a wild flower walk and even scuba dive if that is more your thing? Sark is simply perfect for those that want to take some time away to relax.

The hotel possesses a fabulous feeling of a true retreat, with no motor vehicles allowed on the island and the pace of life as it should be, unhurried and relaxed, the hotel provides the perfect destination for your slice of the idyll. Capturing the essence of good living and a warm welcome, La Sablonnerie is the kind of hotel that simply feels like a home from home the moment you step inside.

Visit www.sablonneriesark.com Contact: +44 (0) 1481 832 061 La Sablonnerie Hotel and Restaurant Little Sark Channel Islands GY10 1SD

Pulla Farm offers a self catering property in central Cornwall near Truro and Falmouth. It is just a short drive to the north and south coast beaches or coastline, National Trust properties and various attractions.

This one bedroomed ground floor property offers spacious accommodation for two with a lounge/diner, large kitchen and bathroom. It has private parking and a garden in a quiet rural location.

Open all year.

Tel: +44(0)1872 863143 Email: enquiries@pullafarmholidays.co.uk

Website: www.pullafarmholidays.co.uk Pulla Cross, Frogpool, Truro. TR4 8SA

NICHE 115

Luxury Five Star Bed and Breakfast Accommodation and Self–Catering Holiday Cottages in Cornwall, exclusively designed for couples.

Take a break….you deserve it!

You deserve a romantic, relaxing, luxurious break away! Well, we think you do anyway! Downs Barn Farm offers the perfect opportunity for this with their luxury 5 star gold awarded bed and breakfast and selfcatering properties in the beautiful area of West Cornwall. Designed exclusively for couples and situated on the south coast between Penzance and Land’s End; they are the ideal location for a relaxing or action packed break away.

Downs Barn Farm accommodations can be found on a working family farm, of which the current owners are the 5th generation to farm it.

Since the year 2000 the family decided their slice of idyllic country life needed to be shared and they have welcomed guests into the farmhouse bed and breakfast to high acclaim ever since, with glowing reviews from both guests and Visit Britain types alike!

New to 2014 are the two self-catering cottages designed exclusively for couples, boasting plenty of space and contemporary design as well as exceptional views and hosts who can tell you all you need to know about the surrounding area; it’s the perfect location to get away from it all and invest in some couple time.

www.downsbarnfarm.co.uk www.downsbarnfarm.co.uk

Downs Barn Farm, St Buryan, Penzance, Cornwall, TR19 6DG

Tel: 01736 810295

CALL: 01736 810295

Email: stay@downsbarnfarm.co.uk

Foxgloves Cottage Greenrigg Farm near Wigton, Cumbria & The Lake District

Resparveth Farm B&B Relax and unwind at a welcoming family-like farm B&B. Resparveth is a rural working farm in Grampound Road with wonderful field views situated between Truro and St Austell and is an ideal place to stay and is within easy reach for many local attractions. Resparveth Farm and B&B is run by William and Larisa. The farm holds a herd of Pedigree South Devon cows that are very friendly and 150 sheep and lambs. Guests are welcome to join in farm activities – from bottle-feeding lambs to putting feed in ewes’ troughs.

The Bed and Breakfast has tree en-suite rooms named after three William’s first most successful breeding cows – Kitty, Dahlia and Daisy.

Continental and full English breakfast included in the price using ingredients sourced on the farm when possible. All rooms have tea and coffee making facilities, TV/DVD, Wi-Fi, hairdryer, radio and alarm clock.

Resparveth Farm B&B is AA accredited and marketed by Farm Stay UK.

To make a booking please contact Larisa or William on 01726 882382, 07929 234 206, resparveth.farm@gmail.com; or visit www.resparvethfarmbnb.co.uk

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A spacious, well-equipped and comfortable cottage situated in a wonderful rural setting at Greenrigg Farm, just 2 miles from the small market town of Wigton. The stone-built property adjoins the owners’ farmhouse and has been fully modernised, whilst taking care to retain the original character, including a farmhouse kitchen with AGA. Visitors are free to explore the farm, subject to seasonal restrictions.

With 3 bedrooms ideal for families, the accommodation offers a spacious well-equipped farmhouse kitchen and a cosy sitting room with an open fire! The sunny garden is perfect for two wellbehaved pets.

01697 342676 kerr_greenwig@hotmail.com www.foxgloves.moonfruit.com

the oil paintings, tapestries and breath-taking ornamental ceiling – the work of outstanding Victorian architect George Frederick Bodley all help to make the Hall a thing of beauty.

Discover Hoar Cross Hall in all its luxury Hoar Cross Hall is nothing short of breathtaking to look at, gradeur at its best, its stunning, both on the outside and the in. Steeped in a rich and wonderfully dramatic history this stately home is now a place for everyone to enjoy. As you take in the Lofty gables, turreted water towers, 48 chimneys and mullioned windows are all excellent examples of the period and exude a level of grandeur that you can’t help but get swept up in it all.

It doesn’t lose its majestic feel as you step inside with the grand entrance hall and into the decadent oak-panelled Long Gallery, which spans more than 100 feet in length,

Commissioned by Hugo Meynell Ingram as a home for his family, it was completed in 1871 and has a distinctive Elizabethan style with Jacobean overtones. Thanks to a painstaking restoration programme, all the public rooms radiate the same sense of splendour as they did during the years when Hoar Cross Hall was a private residence. Many are still touched by the presence of the Meynell Ingram family, from the assertive family motto in the entrance hall to the hand-carved monograms in the Ballroom.

Now, the home in Staffordshire has become a place for all to enjoy with world class spa facilities, restaurant and hotel rooms it’s a wonderful slice of British Heritage at its best.

96 beautifully appointed bedrooms ensure you have the best possible night’s sleep in luxury whilst providing the opportunity to experience the stunning views of the extensive grounds.

The spa welcomes you to truly relax and enjoy a host of treatments and top of the range facilities to help you re-balance and unwind. The indulgences don’t stop there however, a dining experience courtesy of the Hall’s award winning Head Chef means you will get to indulge in local Staffordshire ingredients and a host of traditional yet exciting cuisines. The Hall also provides the opportunity for a more active pastime with golf, croquet, swimming and walking all available or, for those that prefer a more leisurely past time, there’s even board games or plenty of communal lounges to relax and read the papers in.

With regular event and offer opportunities, Hoar Cross Hall is an all year round retreat offering romantic breaks for couples or simply a space for you to indulge in some me time. Visit www.hoarcross.co.uk to find out how you can experience this beautiful home for yourself, go on… you deserve it!

BOOK ONLINE OR CALL 01283 575 671

NICHE 117

Welcome to Appin House Lodges

Appin House provides comfortable self catering lodges (and log cabins) near Oban and Fort William and is set amongst some of the most breath-taking scenery in the Scottish West Highlands. From its elevated position overlooking Loch Linnhe, to the South West can be seen Castle Stalker with the hills of Mull in the background, and to the West, the mountains of Morvern rise majestically from the loch.

Beautifully landscaped gardens of 3 acres, with many specimen trees, surround the house, and pathways through the lawn and shrubs lead the visitor to secluded resting places. In Springtime the scents and colours of the azaleas and rhododendrons are almost unbelievable.

If you are interested in taking an Appin House holiday or if you wish to make an enquiry please contact: Tel: 01631 - 730207 | Fax: 01631 - 730567 | Email: denys@appinhouse.co.uk Appin House, Appin, Argyll, Scotland PA38 4BN 118

Independent and residential living Signs of a good care home…

All care homes vary in their quality and it can be hard to know what qualities to look for when choosing a home. A good care or residential home ought to do the following: • Offer new residents and their families or carers a guide (in a variety of accessible formats) that describes what they can expect while they’re living there. Ideally, residents of the home would have helped to produce the guide.

• Have a majority of staff who've worked there for a long time. They know the residents well, and are friendly, supportive and respectful.

• Involve residents, carers and their families in decision making, perhaps through regular meetings with staff.

• Support residents in doing things for themselves and maximising their independence, including keeping contact with the outside community.

• Offer a choice of tasty and nutritious food, which residents may have helped to prepare.

• Take into account the needs and wishes of all residents, and provide a variety of leisure and social activities.

• Be in a clean, bright and hygienic environment that's been adapted appropriately for residents, with single bedrooms available.

A good environment encourages residents to personalise their room.

• Have staff who respect residents’ privacy and knock before they enter someone’s room.

• Be staffed by well-trained people, for example, nurses trained in dementia care.

• Respect residents’ modesty and make sure that they look respectable, while recognising residents’ choice about what they wear.

• Be accredited under the Gold Standards Framework for end of life care.

Setting the Standard for Senior Care

A home from home at Silver Oaks

Signature South Lodge provides outstanding

Finding a care home is never easy; it needs to

care in a welcoming, friendly and luxurious environment. Situated in the beautiful and leafy, residential area of Stoneygate in Leicester, South Lodge offers exceptional levels of care to its residents and respite guests.

It’s wonderful facilities include 99 housing options including studios, and one or two bedroom apartments, many of which include terrace gardens and garden views to be enjoyed. As a resident or guest at South Lodge you can also expect an emergency call system in each apartment, 24 hours day, wet room style bathrooms for easy access, a fully licensed restaurant serving a varied and high quality menu, which can even include room service and alfresco dining! Your laundry and housekeeping is taken care of, you also have access to a spa bathroom and many lovely lounge spaces and a library. Plus, with a wide range of activities for every day of the week there is plenty for you to ensure your social life thrives. On your doorstep you can take full advantage of the local community with easy access to shops, churches, the city centre and local sports venues too!

All care is tailored to the individual resident so that you can enjoy an ideal quality of life in an environment which allows for the privacy of your own front door and access to high levels of care too. Should residents require, South Lodge also has a specialist dementia suite so that they can offer services to all.

So, to discover this exceptional community for yourself contact through the following ways or book a visit online at www.signature-carehomes.co.uk/communities/south-lodge 307 London Road Stoneygate

tick so many boxes, from the level of care you require through to the surroundings and nearby amenities, it needs to really provide so you can spend your days comfortable, stimulated and cared for. Silver Oaks Care Home provides all this and so much more. For a start the home itself is stunning! Once the home of William Wordsworth’s son, who was the local parson for a few years is the newly refurbished, intimately characterful care home waiting to welcome you as its newest resident. Situated on the edge of the Charnwood forest, the lovely Grade II listed thatched home is a peaceful place in the heart of Whitwick with access to the local shops and facilities.

The accommodation boasts 19 single rooms, most with en-suite facilities and all with state of the art call unit, phone lines and television sockets as well as a communal quiet room, TV lounges, Dining Room, Family Room and a beautiful garden space. Silver Oaks understand what it means to make their residents feel at home, from freshly prepared full English breakfasts to fish supper Fridays and homemade nutritional meals throughout the day every day prepared with passion and attention to detail every time.

The style of care is centred around each individual and the small team will take care of all your needs, from your laundry through to hairdressing with medical attention taken care of at one of the local GP surgeries. Activities are part and parcel of everyday life at Silver Oaks with the team keen to ensure you live your life to its fullest and most importantly to its happiest.

To find out more visit www.silveroakshome.co.uk to view the full

brochure online or call 01530 815665 for a chat.

Leicester LE2 3ND

Telephone: 0116 2179736 Advice from www.nhs.uk

Email: enquiries.southlodge@signaturesl.co.uk

NICHE 119

NICHE 85

Registered Charity 1066869

Educating Africans to develop Africa A-CET, (African Children’s Educational Trust) is an independent responsive charity run by experienced, competent, caring & committed volunteers. Supporting vulnerable young Africans, principally Ethiopians, giving them hope, higher aspirations & selfconfidence to achieve their potential through education.

Working in partnership with the Education authorities and communities A-CET, through EYES, is supporting hundreds of vulnerable youngsters with long-term scholarships plus building and furnishing village-based elementary schools providing free education.

All locally selected scholarship students and their backgrounds are well known to us and, with dignity and symapthy, are assisted from kindergarten through to higher education and into gainful employment or self-employment.

For all the latest news, and to see how you can help, visit www.a-cet.org

NICHE 121

Baston House School

Anna Kennedy:

Education For All All the educational facilities at

Hillcrest Autism Services were created to provide the strong,

educational environment that the mainstream simply doesn’t offer to those with Autism. Anna has

poured blood sweat and tears into

creating environments in which it’s attending children thrive, learn and grow, providing a place in which they receive the education they

deserve. Hillingdon Manor School

and Baston House provide the kind of schooling which changes lives.

Baston House Student : Jasper 11 Mary McInerney lives in Lewisham with her two children. Jasper, 11, has been attending Baston House School for 18 months.

Desperate for an alternative Mary says: “My son Jasper was diagnosed with autism at the age of four. Unfortunately, he was unable to manage mainstream school and by the time he was nine he was extremely distressed and his attendance very poor. The school did not understand Jasper’s needs while the work and the environment were becoming impossible for him to manage. He was continually physically refusing to go to school and trying to hurt himself to avoid having to go.

His self-esteem was on the floor and the school responded by taking me to court for his poor attendance, thereby blaming me and ignoring Jasper’s needs. We had hit rock bottom and there was no choice but to take Jasper out of this inappropriate setting which was unable to address his needs.”

A positive response It took many months, a great deal of effort and a significant amount of money before Jasper was allocated funding for a place at Baston House but, Mary says, she does not begrudge any of it. “At long last, having struggled so hard for so long in the wrong setting for a child like him, he is able to engage effectively with his education, in a setting he can understand, and where he is understood.

His confidence and self-esteem have soared and he is learning much more than he ever has before; because his needs are being addressed so well he is responding very positively and his teachers have high expectations of his academic achievement, as well as his overall well-being.” www.hillcrestcare.co.uk/autism/bastonhouse-school www.annakennedyonline.com

Baston House School An important milestone in the Hillcrest success story Baston House School is an independent special school for children aged between 5 to 16 years, whose Statement of Special Educational Needs describes their Primary need as being on the Autism Spectrum and of a relatively high-functioning nature.

Our goal is to break down the barriers to learning that our students encounter and to help them equip themselves for as independent a life as possible outside of school.

Our approach is based on an eclectic fusion of child-centred and autismspecific strategies and techniques, with a clear focus on improving communication and interaction skills through positive interventions.

- Primary and secondary education - Study tailored to individual needs - Psychotherapeutic language structured environment - Ofsted approved “Baston House is a wonderful facility that is so desperately needed in our country and I am delighted to be associated with helping children with autism achieve their full potential” Esther Rantzen, Patron, Baston House School

Baston Road, Hayes, Bromley, Kent BR2 7AB

www.bastonhouseschool.org.uk Tel: +44 (0) 20 8462 1010 122

Cutting edge Flash Mob dances for autism awareness month in Croydon town centre Anna Kennedy OBE and her charity Anna Kennedy Online had yet more fun whilst raising awareness of Autism at the Whitgift Shopping Centre, Croydon on the 29th March 2014, in collaboration with Nuffield Health Club in Croydon.

Kick starting Autism Awareness month with a difference, both Charities worked together to perform an exclusive and surprise Flash Mob in Whitgift Square! A high calibre group of trusted individuals from both Charities danced spontaneously to a well-rehearsed performance choreographed and taught by Hannah Maxwell (Nuffield Health Studio Manager and also from Bird Gang Dance Group - the UK representatives in the World Hip Hop Championships in Las Vegas in 2012) whilst passers by were mesmerised and taken by a complete surprise – entertainment at its best!

Anna Kennedy Online and Nuffield Health members alongside the Bird Gang Dance Group had been secretly rehearsing at the Nuffield Health Club in Croydon for several months to perform the FlashMob routine, which also involved people with autism, the aim

Get ready for Autism’s Got Talent 2014!

Anna Kennedy Online are gearing up for what looks set to be their biggest Autism’s Got Talent yet on the 10th May at Mermaid Theatre London! Anna, as ever, is ready to power on and tap her way into another show with Lisa Robins at the ready to keep things on the straight and narrow. It’s a whole team affair with all hands on deck, Austin Hughes will bring his infamous humour to the stage and a stream of incredible talent will come from a bevy of entertaining folk. Expect singing, dancing, magic tricks, comedy and much more besides from a host of students and individuals who are eager to entertain.

was to raise awareness and place a positive perspective on autism.

Anna Kennedy OBE, Founder of Anna Kennedy Online said, “When we hear about autism related subjects on the news, it is always doom and gloom. The flash mob was a unique way to celebrate autism and showcase the capabilities and confidence that these remarkable individuals possess. April is Autism Awareness Month, so the Flash Mob was a fantastic platform to launch the range of activities that will be taking place throughout the month, not just from Anna Kennedy Online, but all organisations throughout the world.”

platforms and was filmed and produced by Avalanche-studio, a production company based in Croydon who also photographed the event. The video will send the key messages across the globe to raise Autism Awareness in a positive light throughout April and beyond.

The whole project was fully supported by The Whitgift Centre Management team supported this whole event in a bid to raise awareness and funds. www.annakennedyonline.com

The Flash Mob was a perfect introduction to the levels of talent, energy and positivity. With two sessions of the Flash Mob dance, and each session drawing hundreds of people to watch the cutting edge and perfectly choreographed routine, which included Anna Kennedy OBE who is always game to join in, it was an astounding success!

The professional video is now on social media

anticipation. The entertainment that followed as the curtains lifted was overwhelming, with performance after performance from children and adults on the Spectrum thrilling, moving and exciting us all! I couldn’t point out a single act that excelled – in my opinion they all did!

What a night! The joy of seeing individuals who aren’t typically expected to work together in a social way by society was overwhelming, and to see all of their hard work coming into fruition was a wonderful testament to the work of Anna

Kennedy Online, her entire team, including the cast and crew at The Mermaid, and the individuals themselves. Here's to Autism's Got Talent 2014....!” Cross Productions Managing Director Jenny Cross.

Book your tickets with lisa.robins@thevines.org.uk or call 01895 619736.

Doors open at 6pm.

We attended the show last year and were more than impressed, here’s Jenny’s review of the 2013 event to give you an idea of what to expect as you take your seats in 2014….

“I am always first in the queue to support the latest Anna Kennedy Online venture, and with this year's Autism's Got Talent I wasn’t the only one! The smash success of the talent event hosted by AKO and her 'A Team' of last year, meant that Autism's Got Talent could return in 2013 even bigger and better than before! And, as I took my place in the Mermaid Theatre, London, last night I knew I was in for a treat. The atmosphere was buzzing with an audience simply thrilled to be there and excited

NICHE 123

NICHE MAGAZINE AWARDS CELEBRATING BUSINESSES ACROSS THE MIDLANDS 2015 will see the first Niche Magazine Awards celebrating some of the finest businesses across the Midlands. With 13 categories there will be a whole array of companies entering to see who can make it to the final 5 in each sector. An award ceremony will be held on 9th October 2015 at the Athena in Leicester’s cultural quarter where the winners will be announced.

All categories which are sponsored by local companies open for nominations May 1st 2014.

With so much excitement about the awards there is set to be hundreds of nominations.

Companies can nominate themselves or have someone nominate on their behalf. Closing date for all nominations will be midnight Monday 1st June 2015. Any business or charity of any size across the Midlands may enter. The 3 finalists of each category will be announced Monday 3rd August 2015.

As an official sponsor of Rainbows 10% of all ticket sales will be donated to this local charity.

For more information or to purchase tickets which are priced at ÂŁ50 per person (includes arrival drink, 3 course gala dinner, glass of wine, the ceremony, live band and disco) please contact awards@crossproductions.co.uk or 0116 2712573.