Active Magazine // Stamford & Rutland // September 2025

ISSUE 147 | SEPTEMBER 2025

Leaping into new beginnings

Burghley is here, autumn is around the corner and the kids go back to school to start a fresh academic year

What is Ayurveda and can it help improve your health? Travel; a night at Champneys Coercive control; how to spot the signs Garden design, the process from start to finish FREE!

Editor and Publisher Mary Bremner mary@theactivemag.com

Deputy editor Kate Maxim kate@theactivemag.com

Art editor Matt Tarrant

Contributors

Will Hetherington, Jeremy Smithson-Beswick,

Advertisement Sales Director Lisa Chauhan lisa@theactivemag.com

Advertisement Sales Emily Stillman

Production assistant Gary Curtis Accounts accounts@theactivemag.com

Cover image; Defender Burghley

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ISSN 2059-8513

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EDITOR’S LETTER

‘September is all about new beginnings; children go back to school, to a new school or to start a different academic year, so that means the slate can be wiped clean and they start afresh.’

Welcome to the September issue, and how on earth did that happen? Where has the year gone? It seems quite extraordinary that autumn is almost upon us and the children are about to go back to school. But there are still hopefully some warm, sunny days to enjoy and what a summer we have had. I love a good summer and have relished this one. There’s no doubt about it everyone is so much happier, friendlier and more cheerful when we have a run of hot, sunny days. It almost feels like you can relax and enjoy it rather than have a frantic time trying to organise a bbq or get together as ‘today is the only sunny day for the next two weeks!’ Warm evenings sitting outside knowing that tomorrow is hopefully going to be the same is what a good summer is about. And when it rains you are happy as it o ers some light relief.

Saying that though, much as I love the heat and long days, September is a month I enjoy and not just because it’s my birthday. September is all about new beginnings; children go back to school, to a new school or to start a di erent a ademi year, so that means the slate an be wiped lean and they start afresh. For those that aren’t quite so keen about the return to the lassroom parent or hild Hannah Melville o ers some good tips to work round this.

September means autumn is just around the corner so it won’t be long before it s time to light the re and en oy a di erent type of warmth.

September also means it’s the Defender Burghley Horse Trials which is always a great event. e ve been hatting to them to nd out what s going on this year; and there’s lots.

Also in this issue is a very interesting piece about Ayurveda which originated in India and is a holistic system of medicine. Kate and Lisa had a consultation and simply by changing their diet slightly they have transformed their health, isa in parti ular, so m going to de nitely e plore this further. t s really fas inating stu .

Enjoy the last few days of the summer holidays and let’s hope the sun keeps shining.

Mary - Editor

ISSUE 147 / SEPTEMBER 2025

ACTIVE LIFE

19 GARDEN DESIGN FROM START TO FINISH

The masterplan and technical drawings of the design process

22 TRAVEL

Champneys is celebrating its centenary

24 DEFENDER BURGHLEY HORSE TRIALS

September means Burghley

26 AYURVEDA, ANCIENT WISDOM

What is Ayurveda and can it improve your health?

40 WILL’S WALKS

It’s a ‘proper’ walk this month with plenty of undulations and two pretty Rutland villages

ACTIVE KIDS

45 STAMFORD AFC YOUNG DANIELS

ACTIVE BODY

47 BACK TO SCHOOL

Advice on how to make it something to look forward to rather than dread

ACTIVE SPORT

56 THE ROUNDUP Jeremy keeps us up to date with local sport

ActiveLife

It’s Defender Burghley time. The garden design process from start to fi nish. A night at Champneys. Why too many snacks are not good for your dog’s health. A year at Welland School of Dancing

Ayurveda; what is it and can it help improve your health? Page 26

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Manor Walk Wellness – Your destination for extraordinary wellbeing

Manor Walk Wellness in Crown Walk, Market Harborough is the town s newest destination for total body and mind wellbeing. Founded by Tra y from lbany estheti s and aura from Essentially Blended, Manor Walk Wellness is a carefully curated spa e o ering e pert led treatments, therapies and e perien es all under one beautiful roof. fter years of working in di erent lini s and studios we knew it was time to reate something truly spe ial, a san tuary where people ould feel alm, ared for and ompletely at ease.

hether you re here for advan ed skin are with our medi al aestheti s nurse, gut health and nutrition support, degree led a upun ture, intuitive massage therapy or results driven beauty

and nail treatments – you’ll be welcomed by a team of trusted, highly uali ed professionals.

But Manor Walk Wellness is more than just treatments, it’s a ommunity. Their studio spa e hosts yoga, ilates, sound healing, seasonal workshops and even fashion and wellness events, all designed to nourish your body and uplift your soul.

This is a pla e to slow down, re onne t and put yourself rst in the hands of e perts who truly are. our ourney to e traordinary starts here and we re so e ited to be part of it. e an t wait to wel ome you.

Follow on Instagram @manorwalkwellness or email  manorwalkwellness@gmail.com or phone 07930 139672.

Bowthorpe Park Farm

Situated between the market towns of Bourne and Stamford, this familyrun traditional mixed farm which focuses on high welfare with farm assured beef, pork and lamb is also home to the Bowthorpe Oak - the UK’s largest girthed oak tree.

There is also a farm shop, butcher’s and delicatessen, with home-reared Lincoln red beef, traditional pork and lamb for sale, as well as local fruit, vegetables, bread, milk, yoghurts, beer, wine, takeaway o ee and so much more.

There is a farm park with picnic area where you can view some of the farm animals and the magni ent owthorpe Oak. The farm also opens for events throughout the year with lambing at Easter, a summer solstice music festival and pumpkin picking. You can also hire the grounds for your own wedding or event. Bowthorpe Park Farm is open Monday to Saturday from 9am -5pm and Sunday 10am -4pm.

Entry prices: adult 18+ £2.50, child aged 3-18 £2.50 and children aged 2 and under free. For more information visit bowthorpeparkfarm.co.uk

Empowering Gretton, enriching lives

The Susan Forsey Foundation is pleased to announce that it is now o ially open for grant appli ations. The newly established harity is dedi ated to supporting voluntary and non pro t groups within the Parish of Gretton, empowering residents and enriching the life of the community.

The Foundation invites applications from organisations working to promote community development, arts and culture, amateur sports, environmental protection and the relief of those in need. Grants will be awarded to pro e ts that demonstrate lear bene t to the people of Gretton and align with the Foundation’s core mission.

Applications can be submitted through the Foundation’s website at susanforsey.org.uk. The first round of funding is now open, and community groups are encouraged to apply early.

A Massive Thank You from Rutland Watermill

It’s hard to believe that we’ve already been open for over a month. We want to say a huge thank you to everyone who has visited, supported and become part of the Rutland Watermill family. Your energy, enthusiasm and smiles have made these rst weeks unforgettable and we couldn’t have done it without you.

utland atermill in outh u enham isn t ust a venue, it s a pla e for community, connection and creating experiences together. Every run club, yoga session, café visit or wellbeing moment you share with us brings this vision to life. We’ve loved welcoming people from all walks of life, seeing new friendships form and watching the space come alive with laughter, movement and conversation.

nd this is ust the beginning. ver the oming months, we have so mu h more planned, from wellbeing retreats, tness sessions and community events to delicious food, relaxing spaces and unique experiences designed to bring people together.

We can’t wait to continue growing with you, creating memories and building a pla e that truly refle ts the values of are, onne tion and community. Here’s to the next chapter — and we’re so glad you’re a part of it.

rutlandwatermill.co.uk

Time leaves a mark

Stamford Time & Co is now open in St Peter’s Street in Stamford. The team has a passion for horology, craftsmanship and excellent ustomer servi e and o er a full servi e, repair and restoration service for all makes and models of wristwatches and pocket watches; all clocks too. Your watch or clock will be treated with care and skill by experienced, trained technicians who can restore or repair your timepiece, be it modern or vintage. They are equally happy to change a battery or do a full restoration.

Within the premises is the Timekeepers Lounge - a relaxed, contemporary area where you can wait for a repair or chat all things horological. The team are very much looking forward to welcoming you all.

stamfordtime.co.uk

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What’s On!

Stamford Showstoppers are back with the musical Come From Away. They are the rst lo al group to have the performan e rights to this modern musi al whi h opened on roadway in . Ti kets are on sale now at the orn hange for the show whi h runs from September. stamfordcornexchange.co.uk/come-from-away/

orthants utland pen tudios returns in eptember. ith more artists than ever taking part it promises to be a great event. There is a pa ked programme of events, e hibitions, open studios and reative workshops to suit everyone. From eptember artists of all types will throw open their studio doors for you to visit. For more details visit nros.co.uk

The Hub at Mor ott is introdu ing a new evening menu whi h features all your favourites. There s also lots going on at The Hub at Mor ott in the ne t few weeks in luding lassi ar meet with live musi from The inyl D and a high end lothing sale in aid of lives at res ue on aturday eptember from . unset inema with live musi from Tom tone. Tom tone plays at pm and the Greatest howman frilm from . onwards on an all weather outdoor inema. nd to tie in with the open studios the atural For es rt hibition, in partnership with orthants and utland pen tudios runs from ugust to eptember, am pm daily. Featuring art by ve Marshall, lla enkins, isa ohnson and Tina Firkins.

Be Inspired

The Best of John Williams and Film Favourites will be at Peterborough cathedral on October 3. Enjoy music from 70 live musicians and singers along with a stunning light show and the cathedral lit up by candlelight. Tickets are on sale now at peterboroughsings.org.uk

Dogs are welcome at Easton Walled Gardens this August. On Sunday August 24 and 31 from 11-4pm you can bring your dog with you to enjoy the garden. The courtyard and shops will also be open. All dogs to be kept on a lead. visiteaston.co.uk

Also at Easton Walled Garden on September 10 is a watercolour and drawing workshop with Monty Cholmeley. The introduction to watercolour runs from 10-12.30pm and costs £65 per person followed by an introduction to drawing at 2pm which costs £45. All materials provided. You can do both workshops at a discounted price of £100 or one, it’s up to you.

Book now as spaces are limited at visiteaston.co.uk

Join the Golf for Rutland competition at Rutland Water golf course on September 10 to raise funds for the For Rutland charity which raises funds for Citizens Advice Rutland. This team competition is a great event that runs over into the evening to include dinner, prize giving, a ra e and au tion. ou an enter a team or sponsor a hole. Forrutland.org.uk

Ride and Stride Rutland takes place on September 13 this year. It’s a wonderful way to get out and about seeing local churches and, at the same time, raising funds to preserve them. You can walk, cycle or even ride between churches; unicycles welcome too! To register go to rhcpt.co.uk/ride-and-stride/

St Wolstan’s House in Wigston is open for the NGS on the evening of September 20 from 6.30 to 9pm. This half acre garden features a sunken Italian garden, a white garden and an Edwardian conservatory which will be lit up for the occasion. Ngs.org.uk

RECIPE

Chargrilled summer vegetables with ricotta and lemon

Salads at this time of year are in their element. You can keep them simple or add as many ingredients as you like. It’s so easy to eat seasonally; perhaps even picking some of these vegetables from your garden, or de nitely buying them from the market. This recipe is perfect as a side dish or I enjoy it with some crusty bread; just perfect for a light lunch.

Ingredients

• 100ml olive oil

• courgettes di erent colours if possible sliced into strips

• 1 thickly chopped leek

• g young broad beans still in their pods

• 300g runner beans

• lettuce

• 3 lemons halved and zested

• bulb garlic

• 500g soft ricotta

• alt and pepper

• 100g mixed herbs including parsley, basil, marjoram and fennel – fresh if possible, nely hopped

Method

• Drizzle some olive oil into a griddle pan and add the vegetables and lemons, cut size down. Wrap the garlic in foil and place in a hot oven until cloves are soft and gooey.

• oo the vegetables on the hob or bb if you prefer until softened and coloured and the lemon has blac ened urn o heat and leave in the pan to let uices settle

• Beat the ricotta, most of the chopped herbs, lemon zest and salt and pepper together until smooth and then put in the fridge.

• uee e the garlic cloves into a bowl and add some of the lemon uice and resting uices from the veg together then add the remaining olive oil beat together

• Pour half of the olive oil mix over the veg.

• o serve spread the ricotta on a platter arrange the veg on top scatter the remaining herbs over them and add the dressing

GARDENING

Garden design, from start to finish

Garden designer T J Kennedy has got to Part 4 of her design series: the masterplan, technical drawings and site visit to a large rural landscape

By this stage the major decisions have been made and it is time to on rm all the agreed details in drawings. I’m introducing you to another rural property that has a large e panse of outside spa e.

Who are the drawings for?

hand draw my masterplan for the lient who then has a bespoke and individual opy of their design. The masterplan is also for the lands aping ontra tor to gain an overall view of the s ope of the pro e t. ut it is the te hni al pa k that ontains the key drawings for onstru tion.

The technical pack te hni al pa k of drawings in D is put together to over everything in luding setting out the design at the site, excavation depths and drainage details to how the paving should be laid, intri ate design details and olour of the pointing. t is thorough. And it needs to be to ensure that the ontra tor understands the detail within the design. ithout this it is not possible for them to a urately uote for the work. There is minimal onta t with the lient at this stage as it is a lot of desk based work to turn the design into reality. The e pertise of a designer is the ability to have the vision and the te hni al understanding to see it through. therwise it s ust a pi ture. n e a ontra tor is on rmed and the build starts lient intera tion starts again during site visits.

Site visits/project monitoring

ndoubtedly for me this is one of the best parts of the pro ess. lthough as an e lands aper am biased. ite visits aren t ust about turning up to see that the design is oming together as it should. t is about making further design de isions as the build progresses. These de isions an ome about for various reasons un overing something unknown that influen es the onstru tion work the une pe ted loss of a fo al point su h as a tree editing of the design be ause it feels like the right de ision budget hanges, and so on.

n this parti ular ase further stru tural elements were needed for the integrity of a retained wall. nd we tweaked some of the land s ulpting to improve the view to a large fo al point tree. This is really about evolving the design as it be omes a reality. strong relationship between designer and lands aping ontra tor will always mean the best out ome. ands aping ontra tors are e perts in their eld. emember this isn t ust

about building. t s about understanding plants, trees and materials and their relationship with outdoor elements. ou will have noti ed that haven t onsidered the planting plan yet. The main stru tural elements are integral to the work of the lands aping ontra tor and there are omple ities to bringing in the green elements. There is already a feel for the mood of the planting and this influen es material hoi es. ut it is not until the build gets going that start to on rm plant hoi es. That is for ne t time.

tjkennedy.design

Rutland Watermill A New Kind Of Countryside Escape

Tucked away in the heart of Rutland, our thoughtfully designed space invites you to reset, reconnect and revel in the good things – slow mornings, open skies, nourishing food and unforgettable stays.

Dine With Us

Our café is open daily from 9am to 5pm, serving feel-good plates and seasonal drinks designed to nourish and delight. Whether you’re fuelling up post-walk, catching up with friends, or after a solo moment of calm –you’ll fnd favour, comfort and creativity in every bite.

Padel Courts

A new way to play, connect and move.

Whether you’re serving casually or bringing the heat in a friendly match, our brand-new, state-of-the-art padel courts ofer the perfect blend of ftness and fun, all set against the backdrop of Rutland’s rolling countryside. Courts are open daily from 9am to 9pm, and are available to both members and visitors. Rally your crew. Game on.

Book our Wellness area, we have sauna, ice baths, hot tubs and more to book!

RUTLAND WATERMILL. THE WATER MILL, STATION RD, SOUTH LUFFENHAM, OAKHAM LE15 8NB

Horseradish

Rowan Gri ths tells us more about horseradish GARDENING

Although not native to the UK, horseradish (or known by other colloquial names; pepperrot, red cole and great raifort) has its origins in Eastern Europe and has ambled slowly westward across the continent, arriving in Britain in the 15th century. It is now ubiquitous and thrives on waste ground, in derelict gardens and wayside verges.

It is quite a distinctive plant, having large

vivid green leaves up to a metre in length which appear to grow vertically out of the ground. The leaves are roughly serrated at the edges and are veined in a shbone like manner. In the early summer a spray of small, white four petalled flowers emerge atop a tall spikelike stem.

There is a super ial resemblan e between horseradish and dock. But this becomes less distinct in September when dock leaves

take on a red tint and start to look tired. To be doubly sure, the leaf will give o its characteristic aroma when crushed between your ngers.

September is also the best time to forage for the root to produce horseradish sauce. As well as the consent of the landowner you will need a spade because the roots of the perennial plant can be quite deep and ngered.

Once extracted and the soil removed, the brown outer skin needs to be pared away. ow the funstarts The pure white flesh needs to be cut into chunks and grated. This is best done outside as the vapours from the root are sinus rippingly strong and relegates peeling onions to asissy’s job. It is worth the trouble though because when mixed with extra thick cream or créme fraîche and a pinch of salt it produces a sauce that is vastly superior to the commercial varieties available in the supermarket. And you will have a clear nose for days.

Champneys; 100 years young

While Champneys celebrates their centenary as the UK’s first health resort, Kate looks at why spas are such a good choice for a mini break

Lisa and were very kindly o ered a pla e at hampneys Tring this summer to help elebrate their entenary as the rst health resort in the UK and global pioneer in wellness. And hasn t the wellness industry taken o sin e then t is almost unrecognisable since naturopath Stanley Lief began a revolutionary Nature Cure Resort in 1925 that introduced the population to the transformative power of holism, nutrition and stress management. Originally it focused on physical health and recovery, nowadays it encompasses mental and physical wellbeing, personalised nutrition, digital tness, sustainable beauty treatments and mu h more. s they say: ‘Things we now regard as mainstream such as spa days, mindful eating and self-care were once niche and exclusive.’

While we wandered around, it was fun to look at old photos showing the rst guests, their a tivities and the treatments they were o ered. They ertainly didn t do ody ulpt lasses, eformer Pilates, take a dip in a plunge pool or play giant Connect 4 outside. Luckily Lisa and I were able to enjoy all of those activities plus plenty more.

Stunning grounds

Champneys Tring is set in a beautiful estate of 170 acres, once owned by the Rothschild family. You’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the grounds either by foot or bike during your stay, play tennis and badminton, or simply wander in the gardens, use the outdoor hot tub or, if the weather is inclement, enjoy the view from the comfort of the

Terrace café, restaurant and Hydro pool. There are plenty of places to rela with a book or you an hoose from up to daily tness lasses in the various studios and gyms. It’s your choice just how active you want to be.

e wanted to e perien e a mi of tness lasses, swimming and treatments. The 100 years young facial was absolute bliss, but there’s a whole raft of other treatments to choose from depending on your needs. You could be pampered from head to toe and plenty of people seemed to be doing just that. And one major draw for guests is the complimentary three course dinner, lunch and breakfast provided during an overnight stay. The motto is ‘good food, good mood’ and we can certainly vouch for that! Long gone is the sad lettuce leaf and arrot ui e o ered at health resorts at Tring we wolfed down beautifully cooked and presented dishes way beyond what we actually needed. You know how it is, you try a little bit of this and a soup on of that and you end up with an embarrassingly overflowing plate. A full stomach didn’t stop a restful night’s sleep though and much of that was down to the luxurious bedrooms. Ours had a fantastic view of the gardens, so it was hard to drag ourselves away from that in the morning. But drag we did, so we didn’t miss any opportunity to improve our wellbeing during our stay.

Multiple locations

Champneys own three other spa resorts: Springs in Leicestershire (closer to home for us), Forest Mere in Hampshire and Henlow in Bedfordshire. There are spa hotels in Cheshire and Kent, and city spas in London and St Albans. Each location has its own charm with di erent fa ilities pro level sporting fa ilities at prings, for e ample, or an 18 hole championship golf course at Mottram Hall. But what the sta at ea h spa wants is their guests to leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. We certainly did after just one night, and both agree we re de nitely going ba k. ou don t need a week away to wind down and re harge. Thankfully hampneys have been rede ning self-care for a century and apparently they’re ‘just getting started!’

champneys.com

'We wanted to experience a mix of fitness classes, swimming and treatments. The 100 years young facial was absolute bliss, but there’s a whole raft of other treatments to choose from depending on your needs.'

THE EVENT OF THE YEAR

September means the Defender Burghley Horse Trials so Mary has been having a look at what’s happening there this year

The prestigious Defender Burghley Horse Trials starts on September 4 and runs through until Sunday 7. This three-day event is a top class sporting event as well as the perfect place to socialise, eat, drink and enjoy some great shopping.

tamford is always abu when the event opens and the influ of so many people to the area brings a lot of wel ome e tra in ome to many businesses. And to have a top, world class CC15* sporting event right on our doorstep is a real privilege as there are only seven such events held worldwide. You really will be seeing the best horses and riders in the world.

I always enjoy going to see the trot up on the Wednesday afternoon, the day before the competition itself starts. This is free to attend and you get to see the horses and riders looking their best as it turns into a bit of a fashion show. nd to see these magni ent animals close up as they are inspected is quite a sight as they really are at their physical peak. You can also book an afternoon tea to enjoy beforehand if you wish.

And to have a top, world class CC15* sporting event right on our doorstep is a real privilege as there are only seven such events held worldwide.

As well as the main three-day event competition involving top class riders and horses, there are also many other competitions and masterclasses taking place. You can see younger horses and riders compete, enjoy a masterclass in dressage from Olympian Carl Hester and don’t forget the Shetland pony grand national. This happens on Saturday morning in the main arena and is always a fun event to watch.

Once you’ve seen the horses it’s time to head into the shopping village to enjoy a bit of retail therapy. Burghley is traditionally where everyone starts their Christmas shopping. Here is where you will nd some lo al retailers in luding Dawsons of tamford and ega y of Uppingham. I love visiting both of their stands to admire their sto k and to say hello to elly at Dawsons and Mo at ega y. There are many more local retailers with stands so do keep an eye out for them as well; Iris and Mabel is another favourite.

The food aisles are always worth a visit, they are one of my favourites, and here you can add some delicious delights to your picnic. Because, as we all know, if you go to Burghley, particularly on the Saturday, you bring a picnic and some people really go to town setting up a fabulous display. You can usually spot more than one candelabra!

burghley-horse.co.uk

Images: Defender Burghley

Ayuverda, ancient wisdom

What is Ayurveda? And could it help improve Kate and Lisa’s health? They had a consultation with practitioner Diane Roberts to find out

Diane became interested in Ayurveda because her husband had been experiencing severe health issues for many years. Conventional medicine wasn’t getting to the bottom of what was wrong despite warning signs of acute inflammation in his body. He ended up in a oma for two weeks, then spent six months in hospital with pancreatitis. Diane had retired but subsequently studied with The Ayurveda Institute in ondon and uali ed as an yurvedi ifestyle and utritional practitioner. She has since helped numerous friends and family to improve their health and is keen to edu ate people about its many bene ts. isa and wondered if she ould help us as have arthritis in my toes following an in ury, Hashimoto s thyroiditis and osteopenia. isa has e er ise indu ed asthma, heavy legs and hot flushes. uite a range of ailments between us

Origins of Ayurveda

Diane explained the origin and principles of Ayurveda. It is an an ient system of medi ine that originated in ndia more than , years ago and is based on the knowledge and wisdom of seers known as ishis who lived in the Himalayas. t was passed on orally until it was eventually written down in anskrit in the writings known as the edas. The rst medi al s hool was set up in and the tea hings spread to the Greeks in the west and the hinese in the east if you haven t heard of yurveda you will know about yoga, meditation, uddhism and a upun ture whi h all stem from ayurvedic teachings.

It teaches that just as everything in the universe is composed of energy, so are we. Therefore, energy and the ve basi elements that are present in matter also e ist within ea h individual ether, air, re, water and earth. n simple terms, ether en ompasses avity spa es like the heart, bladder and abdomen. ir is our lungs. Fire is our metabolism and digestive re. ater is our blood. nd earth, our bones, tendons and mus les.

hen these ve basi elements are manifested in the human body they are referred to as the Tridosha (the three doshas). The ether and air elements are known as the ata dosha re and water are the itta dosha, and earth and water make up the apha dosha.

FEATUREDSERVICES

Lisa’s experience

‘When I saw my list I was relieved to see there were lots of healthy foods I like to eat. I have had to reduce dairy so no more hard cheese. Instead I only have goat’s cheese and milk because it’s easier for my body to digest. ve ut out beef, pork, lamb, du k and sh. ow eat mainly chicken, turkey, venison and prawns. A strict instru tion was to ut out all a eine, so now drink bla k organi , de a einated tea. nd only o asionally eat small amounts of 70-85% dark chocolate, which I have adapted to very quickly.

‘Before I started to change the foods I was eating I ordered my last cappuccino and felt bloated and uncomfortable afterwards, something I realise I had been e perien ing for ages. didn t want another o ee after that, whi h was a relief as thought giving up o ee would be a struggle.

‘Almost straight away the results were really positive. My breathing, when exercising, is completely better and my heavy legs have disappeared. didn t really nd it hard to give up certain foods. I think that was because my mind and body were set to make a change from the start. I will de nitely arry on this path what a relief it s been by just changing a few things in my diet and keeping up my regular exercise. I do have one thing I won’t give up though, bags of hula hoops. You’ve got to have one vice!

Kate’s experience

‘Changes came about more slowly for me but the pain in my feet has de nitely redu ed. fter about si weeks I realised my big toes no longer stuck in one position and so the excruciating pain when that happened has almost disappeared. Also, the bones further up my feet feel much less sore so that has a positive kno k on e e t on my toes. think the coriander water is helping. Then one weekend I ate lamb and a bolognaise with lots of tomatoes in it. Tomatoes, being very inflammatory to people with a propensity to arthritis, had been a strict no-no. The low level pain in my toes started to increase again so it was back to the eating plan, but things are moving in the right direction.

‘Diane also advised me to eat warm, moist food not cold, dry ingredients being a cold vata type. That is easier in the winter as I love soup and stews. In the salad season it’s not so easy but m learning to adapt dri ling plenty of olive oil on salads which is no hardship. I also eat sweet rice porridge at least three times a week for breakfast made with coconut milk and cinnamon. It’s bearable! I’m on de a einated tea and o ee but don t mind that. More di ult is not eating bitter vegetables like bro oli and Brussels sprouts – I love them. But once my vata is reduced, the aim is to move onto the pitta diet and I’ll be able to eat them then. ut won t be able to have sh or dairy

Balance is key

According to Ayurveda, our individual basic constitution is determined at conception. In most cases one or two of the doshas naturally dominate, shaping our physical form, mental patterns and emotional inclinations.

We need all three doshas in our make up but they need to be in balan e. hen we are unbalan ed, we su er health problems. Ayurveda is holistic so treats the whole person - body, mind and spirit - rather than just addressing symptoms. It does this through nutrition, herbal remedies, yoga and massage.

o the rst re uirement is to determine your individual dosha. isa and lled out a hart des ribing our physi al onstitution su h as the shape of our nose, tongue and eyebrows. That was quite di ult it s easier if someone else does that for you. Then our physiological make up like our appetite, digestion, fertility and so on. Then how we’d describe things like our memory and intelligence. Finally our emotional state. Always an interesting exercise!

Then we completed a questionnaire giving examples of a typical day’s diet, past and current illnesses, family history, energy levels, skin problems, allergies and exercise levels.

From these Diane was able to as ertain our doshas. ot only do they de ne who we are, but they re also key to understanding our potential health challenges. It’s obviously simpler if you are predominantly one dosha but I was almost exactly half pitta and half vata, and Lisa was predominantly pitta with some kapha. Rarely is someone equal in all three.

Digestion and disease

After our consultation Diane drew up an individual eating plan for us both with a list of foods we could eat and those we should avoid. She also suggested herbs for me to take and sesame oil for me to rub on my feet. We were both advised to make coriander water daily to help boost our digestion and redu e inflammation. hen we eat, our digestive re agni breaks down our food and the nutrients go on to sustain our bodies. f our digestive re is weak it results in undigested food turning into to ins, known in yurveda as ma. nd this, in turn, will manifest as disease in our weakest points whi h vary depending on our individual dosha. Hippo rates, who was born in 460 BC and followed the teachings of Ayurveda is quoted as saying: ‘All disease begins in the gut.’ So following the right plan is crucial.

Lisa has been following the kapha diet to avoid increasing her kapha because one problem area with this dosha is the chest. Eating too many kapha foods, parti ularly dairy produ ts ould be exacerbating her asthma. I am now eating vata foods as despite being half vata, half pitta my ailments are more vata and need to reduce it.

For instan e, m often hilly. have aynaud s in my ngers and mentally my mind is always on the go, hopping from one thing to another. Arthritis is a particular vata complaint and it was this I wanted to focus on most. I may be able to switch to the pitta eating plan once I’m more balanced. And when you are balanced it doesn’t matter if you occasionally have food on your ‘no’ list as your body will be able to cope with it better. It can take a while as many people have been eating the wrong foods for a long time and have built up a lot of inflammation. was pleased to hear that the body will always try and heal itself and if we give it the right environment it will do so more easily.

Diane asked us to record how we were feeling before we started as it’s easy to forget the details when you begin to feel better. She

thought we would see a di eren e in a ouple of weeks and obviously the longer we sti k at it, the better. f we eat something that s not on our list, we would soon noti e. o, what was the outcome?

s Diane pointed out, it s a ourney and an eating plan for life. Don t fo us on the no foods, she told us. Fo us more on the yes foods from which there are plenty to choose from.’

You can have a follow up consultation after three weeks and she is always there at the end of the phone or email for advice. ‘If it’s not working, ome ba k to me, she says. There are ways round things to get the results and relief we’re after.’

Consultations are available face to face or online. An initial consultation is £80 and any follow ups (30 minutes) £30. For more information visit ayurvedaheal.co.uk

And to give you the basics, why not read The Little Book of Ayurveda: A Beginner’s Guide to the Art of Balancing Mind, Body and Spirit by Lucy Fleetwood? It’s the perfect introduction to Ayurveda offering simple tools to bring calm, clarity and vitality to your everyday routine. Price: £7.99 available from October 9.

Review; Knog Scout bike alarm

Gary Waterfall tests the Knog Scout bike alarm and has to admit he was wrong

I’ll be honest, I thought the Knog bike alarm would be a gimmick with limited use. But - for one of those rare moments - I have to admit I was wrong!

t s easy to t and onvert if tted under a drinks cage so it’s discreet (as pictured, don’t judge me on bike cleanliness please). It is easy to set up and use once the Knog app is downloaded. There is also an option to t it with a dayglo cover if deterrence is your mission. n e tted it an only be removed with a special tool. It’s lightweight and water-resistant so you don’t need to worry about it when you’re out on your bike.

t s easily turned on or o with the app. t triggers an attention grabbing 85db alarm and a corresponding alarm on your phone if the bike is moved. Moreover, there is a sensitivity setting to prevent false alarms. The system works on Bluetooth to activate and deactivate; however, if you move out of Bluetooth range, an automated text message lets you know your bike has been moved. Perhaps more importantly, it links into the nd my app and allows you to tra k your bike as the hapless villain makes o with your treasured bike. Like an Apple AirTag, the Knog Scout sends out a low-latency Bluetooth signal and uses other nearby devices on Apple’s Find My network (iPhone, iWatch and iPad) to transmit its location to iCloud.

I am very happy to be proved wrong with my initial thoughts. This is a very useful device which I am very impressed with. The only downside ould nd it is not android ompatible but who doesn t buy an iphone .

Knog.com £49.99 and stocked locally by georgehallscycles.co.uk in Market Harborough

Organic chocolate buttons

Perfect for gifting, sharing or simply to have as a sweet afternoon treat - not to mention they are palm oil free, additive free and gluten free too. In three irresistible varieties: deeply rich dark, deliciously decadent milk, and sweet, creamy white chocolate.

Price: £5.50 from montezumas.co.uk

PRODUCTS

From boots and biscuits to bread bins

We’ve got the lot this month

The House Book

Mer hant and Mills have made their rst foray into house furnishings. House is a collection of inspirations, ideas and patterns for the home including blinds, cushions and a bed topper.

Price: £20 from thestamfordfabriccompany.com

On Cloudrock Mid Waterproof Alloy Ice Walking Boots

Agile and supportive, this mid-cut waterproof hiking boot gives you on den e on mi ed terrain. deal for single-day hikes. Men and women’s boots in various colourways.

Price: £209.99 from tallingtonlakesproshop.com

Katana Saya

A kitchen knife roller sharpener to revolutionise the way you keep your knives sharp. Really simple to use with fantastic results.

Price: £95 from Stu Pots, Market Place, Oundle

Healthy Functional Dog Treats

Helps to improve gut health, alms an ious pups and helps them shine on the outside too! Popcorn Paws® functional treats are crafted with high-quality, natural ingredients and no llers, additives or preservatives.

Price: £9.99 from popcorn-paws.co.uk

Vintage bread bin

s vintage bread bin in a rare ornflower blue with black lettering. Lots of character and a useful item to have in your kitchen.

Price: £95 from iris-and-mabel.com

Marimo Moss Balls

Or, Cladophora aegagropila, make the perfect desk companion andthe most unique of gifts.Kept in water, these spherical balls of algae continue to grow each year and can live for over 100 years, meaning they can be passed down for generations to come!

Price: £14.99 from stamfordbotanics.co.uk

Ice bath

Ease muscle aches and pains, challenge your mental strength and aid recovery techniques with coldwater therapy, all from the comfort of your own home.

Price: £3,499 inc VAT, delivery and installation from oceanospools.com

Will’s Walks books

What could be more pleasant on a summer’s day than a ramble around our beautiful local countryside? Take inspiration from Will’s Walks – published monthly in the magazine and condensed into handy guides to take with you - volumes 2,3 and 4.

Price: From £8.95 from theactivemag.com

Menopace from Vitabiotics

All round menopause support. Comprehensive supplements to support nutritional balance, to be taken before, during and after the menopause.

Price: £25.95 from Boots, Sainsburys and Holland & Barrett

The most versatile and precise outdoor cooking oven with a range of cooking modes. In three sizes.

Price: From £850 from stamfordstoves.co.uk

Big Green Egg BBQ

Joatno40 High Street East Uppingham

workshops

Upholstery Workshop Dates

9.30-4pm each day £70 Upholstery

January 6th, 7th, 11th, 12th, 14th, 15th, 18th, 19th, 21st, 25th, 26th, 28th

Learn traditional upholstery, breathe new life into old pieces, in a fun environment with like minded people

February 8th, 9th, 11th, 12th, 15th, 16th, 18th, 22nd, 23rd,

March 4th, 8th, 9th, 11th, 12th, 15th, 16th, 18th, 22nd, 23rd

Inclusive Atmosphere

Open

Social Connection

A

Improve

40 High Street East, Uppingham 07415767826 joatno40@gmail.com www.joatno40.co.uk

April 1st, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 12th, 13th, 26th, 27th, 28th, 29th

One year at Welland School of Dancing

One year on since taking over the role of Principal at Welland School of Dancing, Victoria Fallow-Norton reflects on the last 12 months and looks ahead to the future

How did you first become connected with the school? I started teaching performing arts at the school in 2018, but my husband Phil, who owns the school with me, started as a student when he was three years old! I came to adult dance classes at Welland when it was still in the old Stamford Hotel when rst moved here in , so ve been known at the s hool for quite some time.

What made you want to become Principal?

t wasn t something had ever planned and when was o ered the position took a long time to think about it. understood the importance of the school and how much time and dedication it would take to maintain its high standards, so had to be sure that was the right person to take on the role. am honoured that have been entrusted to steer the ship as Ms Desbrulais alls it.

What has been the biggest challenge?

There have been many hallenges this year for the team. e have all su ered bereavements, a idents and in uries but everyone has been so supportive of one another. overing lasses last minute, adding in e tra lasses to at h students up and ensuring the families aren t disrupted. nd our families have been so in redibly kind, sending us messages of support and being so understanding when lasses have been hanged. e are so pleased that we have built up an even bigger team now and improved our timetable ready for eptember so that our classes can always be the best they can be.

What has been your biggest achievement so far?

For me, my biggest a hievement has been seeing the s hool ommunity grow not ust in terms of new lasses and new students oining us but the amaraderie between the lasses too. ur

experienced students delight in assisting our younger and newer ones and the whole s hool really elebrates ea h other s a hievements. e are planning on introdu ing some new ways to elebrate our students su esses and show o all of their talents in the new s hool year, so keep an eye out on our so ials for those.

Have you got any events planned?

es ur dan ers have on e again been asked to perform in the professional pantomime at tamford rts entre so we will soon be auditioning for that. ur tap students will be raising money for hildren in eed by hosting a Tap a thon in ovember and then we will host our rst ever hristmas Fair and Talent how in De ember. an t wait for that one fter that it will be in to rehearsals for our annual dan e show, this year alled and we are already horeographing and planning the spe ial e e ts for it.

Do you have classes for adults too?

e do and they are all su h friendly and supportive groups. e have adult classes in tap, modern, ballet and contemporary. And adults have the option of doing Drop ns so they don t always have to book for a half term.

All our class info can be found on our website wellandschoolofdancing. co.uk or on our socials @wellandschoolofdancing on Facebook and Instagram.

So long artificial ingredients Hello healthy dog biscuits

Healthy hounds

Are cheap dog treats fuelling our dog obesity crisis? Rising vet bills and shorter lifespans have been linked to junk treat culture

Britain’s beloved dogs are facing a weighty problem. Nearly half of UK dogs are now overweight or obese, with health consequences that include arthritis, diabetes and even a shorter lifespan. While many dog owners believe they’re simply being kind, experts warn that an abundance of treats, especially low-cost, ller pa ked options are silently fuelling a pet obesity crisis.

Iain Holburn, co-founder of healthy dog treat brand Popcorn Paws® and a veteran of the pet food industry, says it’s time for a rethink.

ve seen rst hand how treat ulture has become normalised - a biscuit here, a handful of cheap snacks there. But what seems like love can actually be harming our dogs in the long run,’ says Holburn. ‘The truth is, a lot of these treats are more about sugar and llers than real nutrition. We think it’s helpful to open people’s eyes to the choices they’re making and how small changes can mean more tail wags and longer lives.’

The hidden dangers of ‘Treat Time’

Most dog owners want nothing more than to see their pet happy, but what starts as an innocent indulgence can add up. A recent report from the British Veterinary Association warns that even a small human sna k an have the alori impa t of an entire meal for a dog. Treats are intended to make up no more than 10% of a dog’s daily calories yet surveys suggest many owners unknowingly exceed this, with almost half giving treats just to make their dog happy and 40% including them in the daily diet.

The consequences are serious: overweight dogs face far greater risks of joint disease, diabetes, heart problems and even certain cancers. Studies have shown that even a little extra weight can cut a dog’s lifespan by nearly two years.

The real costs of an expanding waistline

It’s not just a matter of health, obesity can also take a nan ial toll. et bills for weight-related problems such as arthritis or diabetes are rising sharply. Data from insurer ManyPets shows that claims for obesitylinked arthritis alone have more than doubled since 2020, with treatments like cruciate ligament repair often topping £1,500 per case.

Delving into the more emotive side, Holburn added, ‘It’s heartbreaking for families. We’re seeing dogs who are too heavy to play or who develop lifelong health issues simply because of a few extra daily

treats. It’s also incredibly stressful for owners, nan ially and emotionally.

What about Popcorn Paws®?

Popcorn Paws® treats contain real protein and functional ingredients like prebiotics, postbiotics and calming botanicals - a healthier alternative to sugar or ller heavy snacks. While they do contain a small amount of plant-based glycerine to keep treats fresh and moist, the brand is upfront about every ingredient.

‘We’re fully transparent about what’s in our treats, there’s nothing to hide. We believe long term pet health is a partnership between owners, brands and the industry as a whole.

‘Readers of Active Magazine can receive a free sample of our treats by visiting our website. A small fee is charged for post and packaging.’

COMPETITION

Win some Henry Wag products for your dog including a travel roll bed, glove towel and treats bag as well as six tubs of Popcorn Paws popcorn-paws.co.uk/-competition for more details.

WILL’S WALK

Braunston-in-Rutland and Knossington

By Will Hetherington.

A proper walk with plenty of undulations and two stunning villages in west Rutland and east Leicestershire.

Difficulty rating

The route

Park somewhere near the church in Braunston if you can. Enter the churchyard and walk around to the western end where you will see the path before you. Head out into the farmland beyond and ignore the rst left to keep bearing west. When you come to a small stream (the very early Gwash) after about half a mile make sure you take the left-hand option after crossing, otherwise you will go up to the road with nowhere to walk but tarmac.

From here keep heading south west for another mile. The path goes through South Lodge farm and then crosses over the stream before coming to a four-way junction with a bridleway running north/south. Cross over the bridleway and take the path which heads slightly north west on the opposite side. Stay on this path until you reach a country lane. Turn right here and head uphill on the road for about 500 metres until you get to the T-junction (crossing into Leicestershire on the way).

You will see the footpath sign straight ahead so proceed through the gate and follow the path through pastureland and then on to a track as you pass Preston Lodge to your left. Take the rst left hand turn after Preston Lodge to head downhill and over the stream. From here the path heads north over farmland for more than a mile on the way to Knossington. It’s remote, rural land and makes for peaceful walking.

High on a hill

You will arrive in the splendid hilltop settlement of Knossington via the Manor House on your left. Turn right on to the road and if you want to visit the Fox & Hounds for a light refreshment turn left at the next junction and follow the road around. The pub has a nice patio at the front and a beer garden behind but is not always open on weekday afternoons. If you want to skip the pub, turn right at the junction and walk along Main Street and then on to The Hollow. Go down through the dip and as you start heading uphill you will see the gates to Bleak House on the right in the trees along with a footpath sign. Turn right here and follow the footpath signs.

After Bleak House the path goes east through several sheep gra ing elds on the way to the large eld ust before ady ood Lodge, where it can be hard to see the path and the exit. Head to the north east corner of the eld and enter the farmyard. eep heading east and you will see a footpath sign or two on the side of the farm buildings as you pass through.

Stay on the path as it leaves the farm behind and then skirts along the bottom edge of Cold Overton Park Wood. You are now back in Rutland and just about to pass the highest point in the county (197m) to your left. There is a trig point here but it’s not actually on the footpath. Five minutes after the end of the wood you will come to a junction at the fence, where you will enjoy some ne views over utland ater and much of the county. Turn right here on to the bridleway and then left in approximately 500 metres on to another bridleway. Follow the signs and you will come to a right turn in the hedgerow. From here it’s one kilometre downhill all the way back into Braunston.

Images: Will Hetherington

All Saints Church in Braunston is the start point.

There is plenty of rolling countryside on this route.

ACTIVE INFO

The highest point (197m) in Rutland is on this route at Cold Overton Park. For comparison, the highest point in Leicestershire is 278m Bardon Hill near Coalville and Lincolnshire’s soaring peak is Wolds Top (or Normanby Peak) at 168m.

Essential information

WHERE TO PARK

Somewhere in the middle of Braunston near the church.

DISTANCE

Seven and a quarter miles.

HIGHLIGHTS

This is a proper walk with many undulations. A lot of it is over remote and peaceful farmland, but both Braunston and Knossington are attractive villages.

LOWLIGHTS

Some slightly tricky navigation – make sure you have an OS map or App.

REFRESHMENTS

The Blue Ball in Braunston and the Fox & Hounds in Knossington (not always open during the day).

DIFFICULTY RATING

Five paws; it’s a long way with a lot of contours and a few tricky stiles.

THE POOCH PERSPECTIVE

There are streams every now and again and you will see a lot of sheep and some cattle.

For your own safety and navigation make sure you have an OS map with you when you go out walking. You won’t regret it.

The dogs will enjoy this one but be careful around sheep and cattle.

Active Kids

The Daniels Pathway: A Proven Success

Stamford AFC Young Daniels offers a pathway for boys and girls, with talented players coming through the club’s junior and youth teams

The football club has been based at Borderville Sports Centre for just over a decade, having moved from Wothorpe Road in 2014, where the Daniels were based since 1896. Since then the club has expanded considerably, now with over 30 boys’, girls’ and mixed teams. The Young Daniels o ers football for boys and girls from the age of two.

Junior Daniels

Every Saturday morning the football club hosts its Junior Daniels football sessions, where kids aged between two and seven are invited to fall in love with the game. Coaches help children gain on den e, oordination, ontrol and a sense of amaraderie giving them a head start in sport. Email juniordaniels@hotmail.co.uk These sessions are hugely popular, so don’t delay.

Teams

This season, Stamford AFC Young Daniels will operate 31 teams ranging from under-7 to under-18 including girls-only teams too. ll oung Daniels teams are led by F uali ed and D he ked coaches, a basic requirement for any FA-accredited club. To register interest in joining any of the Young Daniels teams, please email guy.walton@stamfordafc.net.

Holiday Clubs

The oung Daniels also o ers holiday lubs. This summer, boys and girls aged between ve and en oyed e iting football and games days at Borderville. Holiday camp days are priced at £20 per day from 9.30am to 3pm. Dates are over for the summer but there will be more available soon. For players aged between 12 and 16 the lub hosts a three day progress amp led by F uali ed coaches in collaboration with The Training Ground. Sessions focus on technical and tactical development, including passing, movement, decision-making and match play. Book now at thetrainingground.info

Young Stoppers

Young goalkeepers can sign up for dedicated sessions delivered by an F uali ed goalkeeper oa h. ur oung toppers sessions have something for everyone. Each player will have the opportunity to work on goalkeeping fundamentals learning and practicing techniques. All sessions feature plenty of shots on goal, working in age and ability appropriate groups.

Sessions are open to all players and Young Daniels registered players will receive a discount. New players can enjoy one free taster session. Email aaron.gratton@stamfordafc.net

A Pathway to be Proud Of

The football lub is proud of the su ess of its pathway e empli ed by Peterborough Sports’ recent signing of former Young Daniels player Sam Bayly. The Young Daniels boasts an England international in its alumni with Will Palmer, capped by the England Deaf team, having played as a youth team member.

This same pathway continues to provide opportunities for the club’s current crop of youngsters. Last season saw multiple youth team players progress through the club’s pathway and enjoy success at the senior level. tamford F eserves have greatly bene tted from the success of the youth team with most of the squad made up of current and former Young Daniels players.

fter winning promotion in their rst season the young side made it back-to-back promotions in Division Three of the Peterborough & District Football League.

‘The players coming through the youth team have been pivotal to us winning back-to-back promotions,’ said Stamford AFC Reserves manager Jake Walton. The opportunities for Young Daniels don’t stop there. Several youth players have caught the eye of rst team manager Graham Drury who has not hesitated to include youngsters in his matchday squads competing at Step 3 of the non-league pyramid.

‘It has been great being able to include several of the youth lads in the rst team mat hday s uads this season, Drury said. The pathway at the club means that more will get those same opportunities.’

NEW MINIBUS ROUTES

From this September Spratton Hall School will be o ering ve morning minibus routes, with four heading from Market Harborough and the surrounding villages.

The new routes will make it even easier to get to Spratton Hall, an independent prep school for girls and boys aged 4 to 13, o ering an outstanding, all-round, rural education in 50 beautiful acres of Northamptonshire countryside.

Friday 3rd October 10am - 12pm

To book please scan the QR code or visit our website.

ActiveBody

EDITED BY KATE MAXIM

Back to the routine

It’s almost time to go back to school but not everyone, child or parent, views it with pleasure. Hannah Melville suggests ways to make it something to look forward to rather than dread

How is your child feeling about going back to school, counting down the days to the start of term? In excitement or in dread? And how are you feeling? Ready for the return to a routine or worried about any change that’s coming?

hatever emotions are flying around, every eptember brings change, and change can be unfamiliar. It can be hard, it can be exciting, it can be overwhelming…

o here are some top tips

S s hool means lots of di erent things to ea h hild there s no right or wrong

C onne t en ourage onversation about what is on their mind so you can alleviate any wobbles

H hold the spa e reassure your hild all their feelings are valid

O overwhelm and wobbles are totally normal and to be e pe ted there s no su h thing as a perfe t start

O organise visually he klists, pi tures, planners so they know what s oming up and when

L look to restart that morning routine in advan e of day one of school

S starting from s rat h again feeling That s ok, the summer break is long.They, and you, will get there

B balan e busy with hilled fun with downtime

A a knowledge the ups and downs that are normal in life

C alm model how you want your hild to be as emotions are contagious. Be calm and so will they be

K keep your own up full we re no use to anyone if we don’t also look after ourselves

Above all, breathe. You’ve successfully done change before, plenty of times, and so have they.

hannahmelvillecoaching.co.uk

The Oakham Experience.

OPEN EVENING

THURSDAY 18 SEPTEMBER

Join us at one of our upcoming open events to see how Oakham balances academic excellence, opportunity, and wellbeing. Discover how our pupils thrive through diverse pathways and a vibrant boarding and day community.

To book your place scan the QR code or call our Admissions team on 01572 758758.

OPEN MORNING

YEARS 7 - 11

SATURDAY 27 SEPTEMBER

Control explosion

Dr Naomi Murphy explains what coercive control is, how to spot the signs, and how victims might break free

It is a de ade now sin e oer ive ontrol be ame a riminal o en e in the UK. But unlike more physical forms of domestic abuse, it is often still barely understood. And that’s exactly the way that those who exercise control like it.

o often, it is family and friends who are the rst to spot the signs that one of their loved ones is being ontrolled. ut realisation an be slow and by the time the reality hits home, the abuser – because that’s what coercive controllers are – has the upper hand. Victims are separated from their support network and isolated from those who otherwise might o er help.

Too often the vi tim feels it is their unworthiness that is driving the situation, that it is their fault, and their inadequacy, which is to blame. i tims are e e tively stripped bare of their identity, their real self. t that point, family and friends are thwarted and feel helpless themselves.

Gaslighting – turning up the power

e ve all heard of gaslighting how someone is bullied, often by a partner, into uestioning their own reality, thoughts, feelings and memories. i tims of gaslighting are en ouraged by the perpetrator to

uestion their own sanity, giving the abuser ultimate ontrol.

Gaslighting is ust one form of oer ive ontrol. More broadly, oer ive ontrol is the abuse of power, with one partner using whatever powers they can apply to unreasonably dominate the other.

In a healthy relationship, each partner wants to help the other to shine, to be their very best. Good partners celebrate each other’s strengths and a hievements, en ourage ea h other to grow, and take pride in that process. Good partners are protective of each other in adversity they like to share their individual and oint oys and achievements with others.

n a relationship featuring oer ive ontrol one partner dominates the other, in reasing their own power whilst, often gradually, diminishing the power of their partner, eventually to the point where the person being ontrolled be omes totally sub ugated, powerless, enslaved.

nd the horror of it is that they are psy hologi ally browbeaten into believing it is their inade ua y that is the ause of any problems in the relationship. And made to feel that they have to work even harder, make more sa ri es, be more ompliant and subservient, in order to keep the relationship going. To make them feel this way, rst the abuser must isolate their victim from their support network. Because other relationships are a threat to their power.

Spot the signs

There are so many insidious ways in which, incrementally, abusers an gain ontrol. f you are a vi tim, this is what might be happening

Achieve peak mental and physical performance

The latest RoshiWave device is now available in the UK. Exclusively from Octopus Psychology.

makes RoshiWave Unique?

Roshi devices have been used by mental health clinicians, Olympic athletes and others invested in achieving peak physical and mental performance in the USA since the 1990s.

RoshiWave can help you gain the lasting benefits of meditation even if you find it hard to switch o your chattering mind.

• Induce calm and enhance sleep

• Help with pain management

• Enhance sporting performance

• Optimise brain performance

• Protect your brain health

Safe and easy to use, for young and old alike. Whether in a steady state of ‘flow’ or winding down to relax, RoshiWave helps your brain be at its best even during times of stress.

This simple, portable device, small enough for a pocket or handbag, can help deliver the inner peace you seek.

‘However deeply trapped you may feel in an abusive relationship there is always a way out.’

It may start with repeated putdowns, calling you names, shaming you in front of others, telling you that you are worthless, even encouraging your children to belittle you.

They will try to isolate you from friends and family. They may control how much money you have and what you spend it on. They might dictate what you wear or eat.

They may start monitoring who you meet and when, both physically and on line. They may be checking your emails and social media.

Look out for signs of unwarranted jealousy, and accusations of inappropriate relationships when there is no cause whatsoever.

They may continually humiliate you, even when there are only the two of you there. And question your memory of events to increase their mental control over your thoughts, memories and feelings.

Even though they may not hit you, they might threaten you with physical violence if you don’t go along with their demands.

And there remains that problem, that these things can happen gradually over time. Like a frog in a boiling pan you don’t realise the damage until it feels too late to address it, or to get out.

It’s never too late

However deeply trapped you may feel in an abusive relationship there is always a way out. And that way out does not involve trying even harder to meet the abuser’s demands. That will result in just getting further under their control.

But before we explore escape routes, it helps to understand what drives the controller. And understand too that it is not only women who su er as vi tims of oer ive ontrol. Men make up at least one third of domestic abuse victims. There is every reason to expect that one third of coercive control incidents are actually perpetrated by women.

The need to control a partner is usually compensatory behaviour for deep feelings of insecurity and anxiety about self-worth. Instead of being able to talk about and share their insecurity, they let it leak out in toxic behaviour. Controlling partners often have a history of abandonment or rejection and don’t believe they are lovable enough for someone to stay with them, unless they prevent them from leaving. If, as a child, they were constantly shamed or criticised, their self esteem may be fragile, so even being onfronted with a di eren e of opinion by a partner can feel like a threat.

Escape routes

t sounds harsh but vi tims of abuse need, if they an, to stand rm against the desire to appease. First and foremost they need to nd ways to protect themselves. And by ‘themselves’ I mean their ‘self,’ who they really are rather than what they have become at the hands of a coercive controller.

Tell someone, a friend or colleague, what you fear has happened to you. If possible reconnect with supportive friends and family. They will have seen what is happening and be yearning to help.

If you can, seek professional guidance so you can be validated as yourself by someone who can see the real you beneath the shadow you have be ome. They will help you fa e your own fears of onfli t or re e tion, rebuild your on den e and to nd a path forwards.

Ultimately, if all else fails, seek the safety and support of an organisation which can help you physically escape the prison of an abusive relationship and free you to start rebuilding your life. The full and rich life you deserve.

For a list of local and national organisations that provide help and support visit octopuspsychology.com

Monday 1st September, 4pm - Opera Kipling will be presenting Mozart’s opera ‘The Marriage of Figaro’ Northants and Rutland Open Studios Central Exhibition launch event Friday 5th September and then open every WednesdaySunday until Saturday 4th October

Saturday 13th September, 10am - Heritage Open Days - explore the history of the service quarters in this interactive FREE event

Oxford Rep Company presents Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night - evening performance Friday 19th September and matinee

Saturday 20th September

Taste of Game returns Saturday 18th October with award-winning local chef Danny Tompkins

Corporate Christmas parties now available to book for December

Tel: (01604)

THEATRE COMEDY MUSIC

Changing times

September and October are when Perimenopause and Menopause Awareness months take place which aims to raise awareness of both

Menopause o ially marks the end of a woman s reprodu tive years. This life stage is well known. ut there are di erent stages within menopause, su h as peri menopause, that are less well known, yet not without symptoms.

erimenopause is the preliminary stage of the menopause, and for many women, a time of onsiderable hange and emotional upheaval.

Medi ally speaking, perimenopause starts when the rstmenopausal symptoms are noti ed, typi ally mid s, and ends a year after the last menstrual bleed, or the point when menopause has been rea hed. iologi ally speaking, perimenopause marks a de line in the produ tion of hormones that drive the menstrual y le, spe i ally oestrogen and progesterone.

nly per ent of women ust wake up one day and never have another period. The other per ent noti e flu tuations in their y le as their ovaries lose steam. Their y les are longer or shorter than usual, heavier or lighter, or hara terised by intermittent spotting.

The identi er for menopause is lear ut months without a period a ording to most do tors, although you should allow to be sure. However, there s no sure re method to identify perimenopause.

lthough part of the same overall life transition, menopause and perimenopause an have di erent symptoms. During perimenopause you may start to e perien e symptoms of menopause, su h as hot flushes and night sweats. ut perimenopause symptoms an vary greatly, and in some women, are similar to symptoms of M . few more fre uently en ountered symptoms in lude irregular, painful periods or periods that are heavier than usual, breast pain, hair loss, an iety and irritability, dryness of various tissues skin, eyes, vagina , temperature irregularity, trouble sleeping and insomnia and onse uently tiredness , low mood and libido, and mus le and oint a hes and pains.

key point to appre iate is that your adrenal glands whi h produ e adrenalin when you are stressed are able to make ba k up hormones to bu er the fall of oestrogen and progesterone during menopause. ut they are less able to do this if you are highly stressed and therefore demanding adrenalin produ tion. est and

‘Only 12 per cent of women just wake up one day and never have another period. The other 88 per cent notice fluctuations in their cycle as their ovaries lose steam.’

rela ation are some of the most important treatments for keeping the transition from perimenopause to menopause a happy time. o matter how hard pushed for time you are, fa tor in some as a matter of priority.

The adrenal glands need plenty of magnesium and vitamin . Magnesium levels drop in the week before your period, so if you re de ient it tends to show up markedly during that week, as an iety, mus le tension, ramping and bloating. Monitoring how you feel during that time will therefore give a good lue as to how your magnesium levels are faring.

ome wonderfully ri h sour es of magnesium in lude dark green vegetables su h as spina h and hard, apples, arti hokes, avo ados, bananas, bla k beans, nuts almonds, ra il nuts, ashews and ha els , brown ri e, dates, gs, dried apri ots, the list goes on.

There are also a number of natural and herbal remedies that an help to smooth this transition for you.

erimenopause Fo us ombines assiflora with other alming herbs and minerals, providing plant based nutrients to support

the nervous system. tress redu tion is a key target during perimenopause as stress responses have su h a negative impa t on hormone balan e, and drain magnesium stores. nd erimenopause alan e supports the flagging energy that is often e perien ed at this time, restoring levels of important minerals and ele trolytes to improve energy and redu e fatigue.

f you are e perien ing hot flushes, sage helps to orre t sweat regulation fresh sage drops diluted in a little water three times a day an really help. nd for symptoms of M during perimenopause, it has to be gnus astus. This is the herb of hoi e if symptoms start after ovulation and disappear on e menstrual bleeding starts. t an also be very useful if symptoms also in lude painful periods and breast tenderness.

nd for trouble sleeping, leep ell Dissolvable Granules ontain e tra ts of lettu e, lemon balm, magnesium and Tryptophan, a ombination of plant based ingredients that work to promote a alm, restful sleep. t s non addi tive and fast a ting, and these ingredients won t leave you feeling groggy in the morning. Take minutes before bedtime, perfe t for if you tend to wake during the night and have trouble getting ba k to sleep.

For emotional support during any time of hallenge, nothing beats e er ise. t s a great way of produ ing happy hemi als endorphins , metabolising arbs, toning mus le whi h then burns more alories , and working o unhelpful or aggressive feelings. ny type of e er ise that takes your fan y is ne, so long as it gets you moving or toning.

For further information, visit Raj and his team at The Body Store, 13 Town Square, Syston, LE7 1GZ or call 0116 269 4348.

www.georgehallscycles.co.uk georgehallscycle@aol.com

The top of your game

Summer means tennis, or other racket sports, including padel and pickleball. Chartered physiotherapist Sarah Babbs suggests certain exercises can improve your game and keep you away from her clinic

As someone recently said: ‘the British love tennis, or do they just love Wimbledon?’ I know most people know their slice from their lob. And many of us take up our tennis rackets after Wimbledon inspired by watching the coverage from SW19. And quite often, as a result, they end up in clinic with me. And it’s not just tennis that’s the cause of their problems.

Padel has recently become the game of the moment. It’s a game of Mexican origin played in an enclosed court similar to a small tennis court and can be played both indoors and outside. Scoring is the same as tennis but using a softer ball and played with bats without strings. It is fast paced, similar to s uash with balls played o the walls and can be quite addictive.

Pickle ball is played on a smaller badminton type court. The ball is harder and again has a stringless paddle. The ball has less bounce in a smaller space and although played fast, I know a number of players who compete at a high standard, choosing it when they no longer wish to run about the larger tennis court. Both padel and pickle ball are played all year round.

Training for these sports, or any sport, at elite level is a long term plan. Obviously you need to have the skills and an enormous amount of time will be spent perfecting these with techniques practiced and drills throughout the on and o seasons. s with all sport there are elements of explosive action, power and mobility, balance and endurance required. The desire to compete at elite level must also be there as there will be a lot of sa ri es made. Those with the desire and commitment will always succeed over those with a similar skill set but with less determination and dedication.

The team around an elite sports person will include a coach, psychologist, personal trainer, physiotherapist, hitting partner, masseur, sports scientist, agent and of course family. As the stakes get higher, the team

seems to get bigger, and the costs involved. Training o ourt will involve work with a personal trainer or strength and conditioning coach. Training in the gym is imperative to improve the strength required, for instance to serve, in the men’s game, at 140mph. To strike the ball in any stroke, including the serve, one needs not just arm and shoulder strength but transference of power from the ground through the foot, leg, trunk and arm. This chain of events will require a stable base from which to work and for this, balance practice will be done. This may include simple drills from single leg work in standing to hop, lunge, skipping and drive work.

Tennis - and all racket sports - is a very rotational sport with enormous forces going

‘Padel has recently become the game of the moment. It’s a game of Mexican origin played in an enclosed court similar to a small tennis court and can be played both indoors and outside.’

through the body. So working in this rotation, or transverse plane, as well as in the saggital (longitudinal) plane is important. This can be movements overhead and across the body su h as a allo press or Turkish get ups, lifting weights or cables to mimic racket strokes in a controlled setting.

Power can come from exercises such as deadlifts and squats. Just watching how low players can go shows the importance of strength through the hips and knees.

orking with di erent weights and repetitions will be done to ensure di erent actions are supported. This is important for endurance in a long repetitive game and the power of the serve. Explosive power can be trained for with sprint work, jumping, skipping and other plyometric exercise as well as improving calf strength.

Balance drills can be as simple as single leg reach, Y balance tests, heel toe walking. Using balance boards while catching or hitting balls adds to the challenge. Endurance can be improved with aerobic exercise, running, swimming and circuit type sessions.

We don’t need to be elite sports players to bene t from this type of e er ise whi h an be taught and expanded on by working with your physiotherapist. Although to be fair, maybe not the actual racket skills, you may need those already.

To contact Sarah ring 07780 900201 or 01780 480889.

Summer is coming to an end but the sun is still shining so Jeremy Smithson-Beswick talks ‘leather on willow’

The sun’s still shining so, in spite of the football and rugby seasons just getting underway, we’ll dedicate some more column inches to cricket before yet another summer recedes into distant memory. We start with Burghley Park, a club that has one of the prettiest, albeit somewhat eccentric, grounds to be found for many a mile. Well worth a visit for its views across the dreaming spires of Stamford, late 19th century pavilion and the unique experience of watching sprinting fielders disappear from view into the cavernous abysses in their outfield. hey wouldn’t have it any other way.

heir premier league side having a pretty good season once again, had to make the tiring three and a half hour round trip to Grimsby but came back victorious and then, despite missing regular skipper Alex Ashwin, prevailed at home over Nettleham in a match that was something of a run-fest. A huge 672 were scored in total with three century partnerships. he Bears batted first and opener Laud went on to score his maiden century in this competition and was also joined on the honours board by Hobbis who chalked up an unbeaten 110. Alas that feat proved beyond team mate Logan who was promoted up the order with thirteen overs left with specific instructions to emulate them but, according to the club’s James Biggs, agonisingly ‘fell 100 runs short.’ No matter, the home side went on to make their highest score of the year, 366. After the first two overs of ettleham’s reply our hero ‘Lusty’ Logan was in prime position to suffer the penance of buying the first round of drinks at close of play adding to his duck with the bat by dropping a chance at backward point off opening bowler Biggs and then, bowling the second over himself, being hit for three consecutive fours by the same batsman. Fortunately for his bank balance fielder oungs at long came to his rescue with a cracker of a catch and, two overs later, keeper Billington held on to another difficult chance off the relieved Kiwi. Nettleham continued to press, notably through overseas player Dulsara who made 128. But ultimately the run rate required proved too much and they finished on 3 all out.

Next up were Woodhall Spa and there was to be another maiden century for the Bears, this time to opener Ryan Gilmour. Laud again opened well at the other end but looked unlucky to be adjudged LBW reverse sweeping on 30. He was at least given out to the famous name of ex-Sri Lankan international Jayawardene (Prasanna rather

than ahela but still . he hero of Nettleham, Hobbis, joined Gilmour at the crease to take the score into three figures before also falling LBW for 40. Partnerships with Billington (23) and Potter (22) helped Gilmour to his ton but he was the next out at 108 and thereafter the innings rather petered out to 269 all out with twenty balls wasted.

Images: James Biggs

‘That earlier win against Nettleham had seen Burghley leapfrog Bourne into fi fth.. The latter had recently been crowned champions of the Sixes competition - held annually at Burghley of course - beating holders Oundle in the fi nal.’

The tipping point in Spa’s response came at 101-4 with two internationals at the crease, the aforementioned Jayawardene partnered by Tayyab Tahir, who played for Pakistan against New Zealand as recently as six months ago. They put on nearly 50 before Laud had Tahir caught. But Jayawardene’s next partnership, with Caswell, was closer to the 100 mark and by the time Jayawardene was out for 50 the match was all but over.

That earlier win against Nettleham had seen Burghley leapfrog Bourne into fifth.. The latter had recently been crowned champions of the Sixes competition - held annually at Burghley of course - beating holders Oundle in the fi nal. But the Abbey Road side then had to suffer in the league with both a reverse to Scunthorpe and then a surprise defeat against bitter rivals, and relegation threatened, Market Deeping. Bourne’s opening innings was respectable enough at 268-9 but they had no answer to Deeping’s Josh Smith who made a Nelson (111; one eye, one arm, one leg for the uninitiated) nor indeed to Mahmood who plundered 66 not out in double-quick time. Deepings have an international of their own

returning to help them out in that battle to stay up as bowler Pat Brown, capped four times for England at T20, will now play for the side he represented as a junior for the remainder of the season when professional commitments allow. The side does seem to be having a late-season renaissance having also shocked second-placed Lindum in August.

Another club in a battle to stay up are Oakham’s Saturday first XI who are currently eleventh out of twelve in the Leicestershire and Rutland Premier, despite a recent quite unbelievable win at highflying Kibworth. Batting first they looked dead and buried at only sixty-odd runs for eight wickets down as Harry Tyler walked to the middle, but the number nine dispatched Kibworth’s bowlers to all points of the compass making 125 in all to help Oaks reach a more than respectable 237. A somewhat shell-shocked Kibworth then surrendered for just 138 all out, two of their wickets falling to Tyler. No need to enquire about man of the match then.

It would be good to see Oaks survive on merit but rumour has it that a close-season restructuring of the league may reserve the

top flight next year for those with the best-rated grounds, a criteria that would certainly favour the Lime Kilns which has hosted first-class matches and age-specific internationals a-plenty in the past due to its pristine wicket. Hopefully that possible route to salvation hasn’t meant that the players are more relaxed about the position they’re in than they should be. But the subconscious is a dangerous thing.

The angst in Rutland is also being felt by Uppingham - one tier down but in danger of dropping down further after having had a torrid season with four wins and twelve defeats and lying in last place.

Let’s hope for some end-of-season heroics from them, Oakham and Deepings. Stranger things have happened.

On your bike

This month Gary Waterfall heads to the Fens for a ride of two halves. It’s over 33 miles but only 900 feet of climb.

Start in Witham on the Hill and go downhill taking care crossing the busy road into Manthorpe. In Manthorpe turn right and follow the road through Wilsthorpe. This is where the flats start. Turning right into Greatford and then left before the village then left again at the T junction. You’ll wind your way to another T junction. Turn right here and you are now heading south on Kings Street.

At the major junction, turn left. The road is quite busy so be careful. Head towards Market Deeping now. Go over the roundabout into Market Deeping and turn left at the roundabout in the centre and head north until you hit the third roundabout. Go straight over and follow the road to Langtoft where you will turn right; now the real Fens start.

Follow a zig jag of left-right turns before a left turn at Tongue End to take you to Bourne. Head through Bourne and the inclines start again. Follow the road to Grimsthorpe, skirting around the grounds, until you go straight on to Swineshead. As the main road bends right head south to Creeton and Little Bytham before taking a left turn up the hill back into Witham.

For the route, follow this link or scan the QR code. https://www.strava.com/ routes/3355930560702973472

Distance: 33.46 mi

Elevation: 887 ft

LITTLE