Active Magazine // Stamford & Rutland // January 2019

How to eat, Caribbean-style Walk Ufford and Barnack New Year resolution advice Explore Mowsley and Saddington Open water swimming Triathlon training for kids

ISSUE 79 | JANUARY 2019

Ready.

Set. Go!

!

E E FR

Great healthy, active ways to win in 2019

Active

Kids

Rugby, netball, triathlons and more: inspiring children to get up and go!

01 9

772049 871309 w w w.th e a ctive m a g .co m

000_ACT_JAN19_COVERFINAL.indd 1

19/12/2018 14:01

SALE NOW ON

Huge savings in our best ever January Sale, in store and online.

ROAD

MOUNTAIN

0% Finance | Part Exchange | Cycle to Work

HYBRID

ELECTRIC

www.rutlandcycling.com | 0330 555 0080

Rutland Water | Peterborough | Cambridge | Grafham Water | Pitsford Water | Nottingham

E DI TO R ’ S L E T T E R Publisher Chris Meadows chris@theactivemag.com Editor Steve Moody steve@theactivemag.com Deputy editor Mary Bremner mary@theactivemag.com Production editor Julian Kirk julian@theactivemag.com Art editor Matt Tarrant matt@theactivemag.com Contributors Martin Johnson, William Hetherington, Jeremy Smithson-Beswick, Julia Dungworth Photographers Nico Morgan, Pip Warters Production assistant Gary Curtis Advertising sales Lisa Chauhan lisa@theactivemag.com Editorial and advertising assistant Kate Maxim kate@theactivemag.com Accounts accounts@theactivemag.com Active magazine, The Grey House, 3 Broad Street, Stamford, PE9 1PG. Tel: 01780 480789

If you have information on a club then get in touch by emailing editor@theactivemag.com. If you would like to stock Active magazine then email distribution@theactivemag.com. If you would like to discuss advertising possibilities please email advertise@theactivemag.com.

Active magazine is published 12 times per year on a monthly basis. ISSN 2059-8513 A Grassroots Publishing Limited company.

Company registration number 7994437. VAT number 152717318

Disclaimer

Copyright (c) Grassroots Publishing Limited (GPL) 2019. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, or be stored in any retrieval system, of any nature, without prior permission from GPL. Any views or opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of GPL or its affiliates. Disclaimer of Liability.

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the quality and accuracy of the information contained in this publication at the time of going to press, GPL and its affiliates assume no responsibility as to the accuracy or completeness of and, to the extent permitted by law, shall not be liable for any errors or omissions or any loss, damage or expense incurred by reliance on information or any statement contained in this publication. Advertisers are solely responsible for the content of the advertising material which they submit and for ensuring the material complies with applicable laws. GPL and its affiliates are are not responsible for any error, omission or inaccuracy in any advertisement and will not be liable for any damages arising from any use of products or services or any action or omissions taken in reliance on information or any statement contained in advertising material. Inclusion of any advertisement is not intended to endorse any view expressed, nor products or services offered nor the organisations sponsoring the advertisement.

“Going to the gym or buying a bike? You pay tax. Want to buy a helicopter or gamble?

No charge. It’s ridiculous” You must be delighted that when you buy your helicopter or your antique Louis XIV console table, or bung a load of cash each way on some horse in the 4.30 at Kempton, you don’t pay VAT. After all, there would be nothing worse than having forked out on a Bell Jet Ranger, you then have to give the government a further 20%.

Yet, VAT has to be paid on things such as gym membership, and all manner of items that demonstrably bring health benefits, such as bicycles (although you can get some deductions on the Cycle to Work scheme). Where’s the sense in this? Surely, for many people, 20% off a gym membership would make a big difference to whether they chose to sign up or not, and the country is facing an obesity crisis: it is the second biggest cause of early death in the UK, and responsible for more than 30,000 deaths in Britain every year, and the issue is especially stark in poorer homes.

Gary Lockwood, CEO of national chain 24/7 Fitness, is campaigning for this tax to be abolished, claiming gym prices have remained more or less static for a decade, while costs such as rent, rates and wages have risen – a situation that has seen many gyms struggle to survive.

I would suggest that when the government finally takes its head out the dark place it has currently stuck it, this is an issue it should look at carefully, and not just for gyms. Any business offering services, or product sectors (such as cycling) that clearly illustrate they make people healthier, should be exempt from VAT. The calculation of a healthier nation paying less VAT set against their lesser burden on the NHS would be interesting to see. Taxing fitness is patently ridiculous.

Enjoy the issue

Steve

FIND US ONLINE

FACEBOOK theACTIVEmag

TWITTER @theACTIVEmag

INSTAGRAM theactivemaguk

WEBSITE theactivemag.com

January 2019 / theactivemag.com

3 ed letter OK.indd 3

3

18/12/2018 18:36

Active_Proactove_ad_v1.indd 4

19/12/2018 13:23

I S S U E 79 / J A NUA RY 201 9

Contents

ACTIVE LIFE 13 WHAT’S ON

Great local events for all the family

15 HEALTHY EATING

A delicious and nutritious salad

17 GARDENING

Planning a courtyard garden

20 INTERVIEW

Local actor and director Bill Lindsay

22 EATING OUT

A taste of the Caribbean in Peterborough

26 THE FINISHING TOUCHES

28

Fashion and beauty advice

28 ACTIVE 2019

Exciting new things to try this year

34 GREAT WALKS

Ufford, Barnack, Mowsley and Saddington

22

ACTIVE BODY

41 A HEALTHY HIBERNATION

Nutrition advice from Dawn Revens

42 SEEING THE LIGHT

Maintain your mental health this winter

45 HEAL THE HEEL

Avicenna Clinic advice on foot problems

52

ACTIVE KIDS

49 SCHOOL NEWS

Focus on our talented young players

52 TRY A TRI

Get your kids involved with triathlons

ACTIVE SPORT

55 MARTIN JOHNSON

The impact of money on football

56 SQUAD GOALS

International wheelchair rugby returns

60 THE ROUND-UP

How local teams are faring

66 KITBAG

Essential sports equipment for the winter

32 January 2019 / theactivemag.com

5 contents.indd 5

5

19/12/2018 14:37

From the team behind : a new creative marketing agency that will give your business a competitive advantage Content

Advertising

Branding

Print

Digital

Email proactive@theactivemag.com to find out more

Active_Proactove_ad_v1.indd 6

19/12/2018 13:23

ActiveLife Wellness holidays | Turtle Bay - a taste of the Caribbean in Peterborough Meet King’s Cliffe Players’ director Bill Lindsay | Walks with Will The puffer – the coat to wear this winter | Exciting things to do in 2019 E DI T E D BY M A RY B R E M N E R

January 2019 / theactivemag.com

7 life opener OK.indd 7

7

19/12/2018 13:17

Active life

Happy Santas LUTTERWORTH SANTA FUN Run, held on December 2, was strongly supported by people from the town, with almost 550 racing and enjoying the unseasonably mild weather. The final amount raised hasn’t been verified yet, but looks to be about £5,000.

BRAND OF THE MONTH

Angel & Rocket

A

NGEL & ROCKET is a children’s clothing brand established by Kate Bostock in 2014. Kate has huge experience in retail, having had roles at Next and Marks and Spencer, as well as others. Kate said: “I’ve always wanted my own brand and business and with my background and experience in design and product development, I knew boys’ and girls’ wear was the right business for me.” Her husband, who has a background in manufacturing, joined her in the business and her two sons now

Running in the dark for Movember A FIVE-MILE race, The Tunnel Vision Night and Dawn Run, held in November has raised more than £1,000 for Movember the prostate cancer appeal. The run took place in darkness with runners navigating their way along the Brampton Valley Way wearing head torches.

See raceharborough.co.uk for details.

8

work with her as well. “We are very much a family team and have strong links to Leicestershire. I grew up in the county and my boys went to school in Leicester when I was working for Next.”

Angel & Rocket ‘is for kids going places’ aged between three and 12, and concentrates mainly on smart casual clothing. They also feature party wear, including bridesmaid’s dresses and suits.

Look out for their pop-up stores; they had one recently in Leicester, or see their entire range at angelandrocket.com.

Join the series FEMME CORRECTIVE BY Rebecca Wilson is a new fitness movement that bridges the gap between rehab and exercise and helps women face, and overcome, issues caused by some of life’s biggest events.

Based in Rutland and Leicestershire, it is a movement aimed mainly at women going through pregnancy, childbirth and breast cancer. The unique holistic approach includes functional and strength training, meditation, breath work, visualisation and lifestyle advice.

Rebecca offers four different series, each six-week programme incorporating different training techniques and exercises, costing from £45.

To find out more, go to femmecorrective.com

January 2019 / theactivemag.com

8 news OK.indd 1

18/12/2018 22:19

NERSHIP! U N D E R N E W OW Situated in Corby Glen, in the heart of the village.

We’re on great cycling and walking routes.

Just a few miles off the A1, near Stamford, Bourne & Grantham.

We use products from Grasmere Farm and Hambleton Bakery.

BREAKFAST / COFFEE & CAKE / LUNCH AFTERNOON TEA / SMOOTHIES / MILKSHAKES

OCTAGON

Open 7 days a week Monday - Saturday 8.30-4pm / Sunday 10-3pm Takeaway available

DE S IG N & M A R K E T I NG LT D

www.thepantrycorbyglen.co.uk 01476 550108 / aemeadows@sky.com Hawks Nest/Cottage, Great North Road, Bawtry, Doncaster, South Yorkshire DN10 6AB 01302 714528 |

www.octagon.org.uk |

admin@octagon.org.uk

Please see attached a copy of your advert booked into Options (Leicestershire & Rutland) Winter 2019

Bluebird Care

Providing Outstanding Care within Your Own Home...

Stamford and surrounding villages including Ryhall • Casterton • Bainton • Barnack • The Deepings • Peterborough • Rutland • Oundle • Empingham • Oakham • Uppingham

I confirm I own the copyright of any artwork/photos supplied and the advert is:

09.indd 1

o CORRECT and ok to print o INCORRECT and needs to be amended as specified o REDESIGN and will be supplying new artwork/photos/logos etc (Please email this form to admin@octagon.org.uk

IMPORTANT NOTE: Due to the time factor - if we don't hear from you by 20th December we shall assume your advert is correct and proceed to

19/12/2018 13:52

Active life

Award win for Rutland Cycling RUTLAND CYCLING HAS won the 2018 Family Business Award for Retail Excellence in the 2018 Midlands Family Business Awards.

Director Sally Middlemiss, daughter of founder Dave Archer, said: “This year has seen some challenging times for the bike industry, so it is particularly gratifying to win this award as we continue to grow and deliver our vision of inspiring more people to own and ride a bike.”

Now in their ninth year, the not-forprofit Midlands Family Business Awards are backed and run by The Wilson Organisation.

Men wanted

M

EN UNITED IN Song is back for 2019, once again raising money for Prostate Cancer UK, and they are looking for a minimum of 40 local men to join them. You can have no singing experience, or lots – all abilities are welcome. Rehearsals start in March and will culminate in a charity concert at The Cresset in Peterborough on Saturday, May 11. Over the 10 weeks of rehearsals firm friendships will be made – it’s not just about singing and fundraising, there’s a fantastic social scene too.

Men United in Song kicks off with introductory sessions on February 27 and 28, and on March 2 at the John Mansfield Campus in Peterborough. Rehearsals will be on Wednesday evenings. For further information contact Jo on 01733 425194 or email menunited@peterboroughsings.org.uk.

10

Time for tea in new venture THE MARCH HARE Tea Rooms at The Pantry in Corby Glen has been taken over by businesswoman Amy Roberts.

Amy has given the beautiful tea rooms a makeover, adding more variety to the menu and holding themed events; gingerbread house making was very popular just before Christmas.

The menu is varied, offering breakfasts, lunches and afternoon tea; the cakes are to die for. Suppliers include Grasmere Farm and Hambleton Bakery.

A range of gifts are also available to buy, along with pictures from local artists. Amy and her staff pride themselves on their warm welcome so pop along to say hello and enjoy some delicious food in a very comfortable setting. Tel: 01476 550108.

January 2019 / theactivemag.com

10 news OK.indd 10

18/12/2018 22:20

Master Stonemasons & Building & Restoration Experts

HARBOROUGH STONE

Unique holistic fitness movement focusing on corrective and preventative exercise.

•

Now registering for Pre and Post-Natal, Strength and, Breast Cancer Rehab.

• • • • •

•

Check your eligibility with our FREE

consultation at:

Woodburning & Multi-Fuel Stoves Hand Carved Masonry & Fireplaces Architectural & Restoration works Gas & Electric Fires & Stoves House Plaques & Date Stones Wooden Beams & Fireplace Surrounds Installations, Sweeping & Servicing

01858 41 00 33

1 Sulleys Yard, Adam & Eve Street, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, LE16 7LT

www.harborough-stone.co.uk

Policies designed with your specific business insurance in mind

Tradesmen & Contractors

Professional Indemnity

Hairdressers & Beauticians

Directors & Officers

Homeworking Professionals

Offices & Surgeries

Teachers & Tutors

Shops, Cafés & Restaurants

Call us for a FREE QUOTE 0333 366 0714

11.indd 1

www.policywise.co.uk

19/12/2018 12:02

Blinds and Curtains Made to Measure & Fitted Fast Locally We Supply Roller, Vertical, Roman, Curtains, Perfect Fit, Pleated, Conservatory sails

be inspired... the heart of your home The kitchen has evolved in style, look and technology, but it remains the heart of the home.

Like all our services, a Classic Kitchen will be supplied and installed with a level of care and expertise that matches your expectations.

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM VVI SI SI ITTvisit OOUour SS H H OOW WRROOOOMM URRshowroom 12 St Leonard’s Street, Stamford, Lincs PE9 2HN Open: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-3pm

Tel: 01780 654321 Email: sales@classicstamford.co.uk www.classicstamford.co.uk

12.indd 1

FOR A QUOTATION OR ADVICE Call Richard on 01572 759176 or 07967 383827

Fitting Blinds & Curtains Fast: Oakham, Rutland, Stamford, Melton & Bourne

Email rich@5dayblinds.co.uk (EMAIL US YOUR SIZES FOR A QUICK QUOTATION)

www.5DayBlinds.co.uk

www.conservatorysails.info

Uppingham Carpet Company

LOOKS CAN BE DECEPTIVE… THINK THIS IS WOOD? CARPETS • LUXURY VINYL • WOODEN FLOORS • RUGS STAIR RUNNERS • NATURAL FLOOR COVERINGS

01572 821581 www.uppinghamcarpets.co.uk

19/12/2018 14:41

Active life

What’s on...

J

ANUARY MEANS LOCAL restaurateurs are offering their Lunch for Less deal, and it’s a deal worth having.

Establishments include the Marquess of Exeter in Lyddington, the Wicked Witch in Ryhall and The Olive Branch at Clipsham, to name a few.

There are many more places offering Lunch for Less deals, so keep an eye out to spot them.

Gearbox Theatre Company will be staging Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night in Peterborough Cathedral from February 13-15. Set in the swinging ’60s, along with a skiffle band, this is a show not to be missed. Tickets are on sale now from www.peterborough-cathedral.org. uk/twelfthnight and do look out for their Valentine’s day special offer tickets.

Singer Michael Ball will appear at De Montfort Hall in Leicester on May 22. The double Olivier Award winner and multiplatinum recording artist is touring to support his Coming Home To You album. Tickets are on sale at www.demontforthall.co.uk.

There is a lot happening at Ferry Meadows in Peterborough throughout January. A monthly outdoor parent and toddler group, held on the 14th, includes a messy craft activity, time to explore the outdoors as well as a story and songtime. January 26 is Campfire Cooking for Kids, where they can learn to light a fire and try some campfire cooking. Or on the 27th join the rangers for some Volunteering Moments with trees. Visit www.neneparktrust.org.uk for details.

Finally, it’s panto season! Dick Whittington

by Polka Dot Pantomimes will be at Stamford Arts Centre between January 10 and 13. (Call 01780 763203 for tickets). And Cinderella is being performed by The Youth Theatre in Market Harborough at the Welland Park Academy from January 26 to February 2. Visit www.ticketsource.co.uk/theyouththeatre for tickets and show times.

January 2019 / theactivemag.com

13 whats on OK.indd 1

13

18/12/2018 22:21

‘They may forget your name, but they will never forget how you made them feel’ LOOKING FOR TALENTED, HIGHLY-MOTIVATED AND DYNAMIC PEOPLE • Flexible working patterns • Part time and full time positions available • Night shifts available • Competitive rates of pay

A job that makes a difference..

• Contracted hours available • Expenses paid and uniforms provided • Full training provided and individualised pathways

be inspired...

• Delivering care in the community of Stamford and surrounding villages Induction coming soon...

highly-motivated and dynamic people

Call us on 01780 489227 Email: info@wrightcareathome.com www.wrightcareathome.com The Grey House, 3 Broad Street, Stamford. Lincolnshire PE9 1PG

caring for your home Conservatory too hot in the summer and too cold in winter?

Classic have the answer to this problem and you do not even have to change the existing windows/doors, although you can. Structurally very strong which means your new sun room meets full Building Regulation Approval.

visit our showroom 12 St Leonard’s Street, Stamford, Lincs PE9 2HN Open: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-3pm

Tel: 01780 654321 Email: sales@classicstamford.co.uk www.classicstamford.co.uk

14.indd 1

19/12/2018 11:54

Active life

Round Corner opens up A NEW CRAFT brewery has opened in a former sheep shed in Melton Mowbray livestock market.

Called Round Corner brewery, it’s the culmination of a lifelong dream of brewer Colin Paige and businessman Combie Cryan, who has pulled together the funding to build the £1 million facility.

Colin has brewed all over the world, but for the Round Corner bitters and lagers he is sourcing ingredients very close to home, with hops from the Midlands, and is aiming to create beers of the highest quality.

The stylish brewhouse is open for visitors too, who can sample its range from the bar at the front of the building, and the owners are hoping it will provide a focus for the burgeoning artisan food scene in the Melton area.

Crombie said: “Great beer is a passion of mine, so to be able to open a craft brewery of my own, using the best ingredients with top quality brewing equipment, is a dream come true.”

Round Corner launches with three beers; a pale ale called Steeple Chase, a golden ale called Topside and Frisby lager. It is looking to supply pubs locally as well as farther afield, such as in the craft beer hotbed of London, but you can also buy it fresh in bottles if you visit the brewery.

For more information, visit roundcornerbrewing.com.

FOOD

Lentil, quinoa, olive and feta cheese salad Fight the festive flab and get back to sensible, healthy eating with this delicious salad

I

T’S THAT TIME of year when the thought of another mince pie, chocolate, slice of turkey or roast potato is too much. We have over-loaded on rich food and just want something simple and nutritious to eat to help calm the stomach and get us back to eating normally. Try this easy to make, delicious salad...

M ETHOD

I NGRE DI E NTS

3

200g quinoa 1 tsp olive oil ½ finely chopped onion 2 tbsp tarragon, chopped 400g puy or green lentils, rinsed and drained 100g crumbled feta cheese 6 spring onions Handful of chopped, pitted black olives 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

1 2

Simmer the quinoa in boiling water for 10 minutes, drain well and allow to cool.

Heat the oil in a small pan and cook the onion until softened. Stir in the tarragon, then remove from the heat.

Stir the onion and tarragon into the quinoa along with the lentils, feta, spring onions, olives and balsamic vinegar. Toss well together and chill until ready to serve.

January 2019 / theactivemag.com

15 recipe OK.indd 1

15

18/12/2018 22:21

Teresa Kennedy Creating & Styling Outdoor Spaces Since 2010

Launde Abbey

Open daily for morning coffee, lunch and afternoon tea

Cyclists and walkers very welcome Why not start your walk or ride at Launde then reward yourself with a delicious lunch at the end?

Visit our website for maps and routes at www.laundeabbey.org.uk

New Builds • Commercial Sites • Established Gardens

Launde Abbey, East Norton, Leicestershire LE7 9XB T: 01572 717254 I E: info@launde.org.uk

26 MAIN STREET, EDMONDTHORPE, LEICESTERSHIRE, LE14 2JU E TERESA@VIRIDISDESIGN.CO.UK T 07726 334 501

WWW.VIRIDISDESIGN.CO.UK

Charity No: 1140918

Terms & conditions apply. Normal membership rate thereafter. Offer available until 10th January 2019.

£20.19 THIS IS YOUR YEAR

INCLUDES GYM / SWIM / WORKOUT CLASSES Start your fitness journey this January & pay just £20.19 for your 1st month. Join online with the promocode NY19

CATMOSE SPORTS CENTRE Huntsmans Drive, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6RP 01572 490 030 enquiries.catmose@sll.co.uk find us online: www.sll.co.uk

16.indd 1

19/12/2018 11:54

Active life

GARDE NING

Plan a courtyard garden Teresa Kennedy gives tips and design ideas for courtyard gardens

T

HE START OF a new year tends to make you look back and see what you’ve achieved, which is what I’ve just been doing with this column. During the past year I’ve talked about many things to consider when looking at your garden with a critical eye. Moving into a second year of the column I’m going to delve deeper, looking in greater detail at particular garden types and styles and introducing more plant choices that suit particular settings or colour schemes.

To begin 2019 I’m going to focus on courtyards. This might be the only garden space you have, or an area within a larger garden. The most important thing to consider in any courtyard is its aspect – how much light do you get, is it a hot spot, or is it damp and dark?

If it’s hot you are definitely going to need some kind of shade. If you are surrounded on all four sides by walls or fencing then use these to erect a sunshade, such as a sail. If it’s damp and dark and you’re surrounded by walls then think about using wall lights, uplighters and reflective surfaces – mirrors are really easy and effective.

PLANTING

You can pick a style in a small space and work it to its maximum. I love to see a hot courtyard filled with tropical plants, great big leaves and vibrant red and yellow flowers.

Or in a shaded courtyard a green theme is perfect and creates a wooded feel. Use tall slender trees and underplant with bulbs and ferns, grasses and wild flowers.

In both circumstances, use your boundaries to plant upwards; either tall plants or wall-hung ones. Potted bamboos give great height, screening and movement. Ferns and ivy hang and cling, doing particularly well in the shade. Wall shelves allow you to change your planting using small potted plants which you can swap and change.

Consider going with a colour theme to suit the season: white, yellow and blue for early spring, and then ramping up the colours for summer.

N AT U R E

The blackcap ONCE REGARDED AS summer visitors, blackcaps may now be seen locally all year round and they regularly visit garden feeding stations in the winter.

Blackcaps are warblers and most species spend the winter in Africa, but many blackcaps winter around the Mediterranean.

Over the past 20 years, more have been present in Britain during the winter and ring returns have shown that these birds breed in central Europe.

At garden feeders, blackcaps are aggressive

EXTRAS

It’s really easy to pick up a courtyard table and two chairs, or consider other options. Built-in hardwood benches are sleek and minimal and work really well with big foliage. Fold-down seating attached to a solid wall is practical in a tight space. What about a big comfy outdoor sofa?

Or integrated seating that is part of a raised bed?

If you have two levels, use your steps. In general, a level change is a great addition. You could dig a sunken area for seating and a fire, and surround yourself with planting; or raise the eye-level up with a pergola structure swathed in climbing roses.

Contact www.viridisdesign.co.uk | 07726 334501

towards other birds. They will take a range of foods and are especially attracted to apples, peanuts, fat balls and suet.

Blackcaps are slightly smaller than a chaffinch, dark grey above and paler on the breast and belly. Only the males have the distinctive black cap; in females and young birds this is a reddish-brown.

As breeding birds, blackcaps are present from late March to October and are widespread in open woodland, spinneys and even in large gardens.

They have a rich warbling song, which often locates the birds as they skulk in cover, and a harsh ‘tacc-tacc’ call.

The nest is built in bushes or brambles and up to six eggs may be laid with two broods often being reared. Terry Mitcham

January 2019 / theactivemag.com

17 gardening OK.indd 17

17

18/12/2018 22:22

PERMANENT LASER HAIR REDUCTION Your local glazing specialists providing clear solutions in glass to the Stamford area since 1995.

Are you tired of plucking, waxing and using messy creams?

Visit our Stamford Showroom!

THE GRANARY LASER CLINIC HAS THE SOLUTION

• Windows • Composite Doors • Bi-Fold Doors

• Clinic managed by Registered General Nurse with over 19 years experience in Laser Hair Removal

• Conservatories • Glazed Roofs

• Free consultation and test area

• Splashbacks

• All treatments clinically proven - we guarantee it

• Mirrors

• No up front package payments - just pay for your treatments as you take them

• Shelving

• Honest and easy to understand advice • Quiet village location

• Shower Screens

Dec Mag.e$S:Layout 10/12/2018 14:36 Page 3 • Friendly 1and discreet dedicated staff

• GentleLase Plus

• Table Tops

Dec Mag.e$S:Layout 1 10/12/2018 14:36 Page 3 January 2019

• Sliding Glass Doors

January 2019

• Secondary Glazing

www.linkmagazines.co.uk Village Link 3

Designs for Living from

www.linkmagazines.co.uk Village Link 3

Designs Kitchens for Living from Estu Estu Kitchens

• Integral Blinds • Glass Floors • Balustrading

SI

ING QU ER

ITY AL

DELI V

SafeGuard is proud to supply the local area with a diverse range of glazing solutions as supply only or supply and install

N CE 1995

www.safe-guard.co.uk Contact us today on

01780 751442 PRICES TO SUIT ALL BUDGETS PRICES TO SUIT ALL BUDGETSBathrooms, Wet Rooms, Studies and Bedrooms.

Kitchens, Building works undertaken including removal of internal walls tiling,Wet flooring andStudies plastering Kitchens,electrics, Bathrooms, Rooms, and etc Bedrooms.

Building works undertaken including removal of internal walls All work fully project managed electrics, tiling, flooring and plastering etc

@SafeGuardGlass

enquiries@safe-guard.co.uk

01476All575 07885 591 814 work077 fully project managed

www.estu.uk.com Email: paul@estu.uk.com

Unit01476 9, Inner Street Grantham, 575Business 077 Centre, 07885 591NG31 8146HN

The team www.estu.uk.com at Estu would like to wish all of paul@estu.uk.com our new and existing customers Email: a happy and prosperous New Year

SafeGuard Stamford T: 01780 751442 Unit 3, Stamford Business Park, Ryhall Road, Stamford, Lincs, PE9 1XT

Unit 9, Inner Street Business Centre, Grantham, NG31 6HN

The team at EstuApproved woulddistributor like toin Lincolnshire wish allforofQuooker our boiling newwater andtaps existing customers a happy and prosperous New Year The deadline for the January 2019 edition is Monday 3rd December Approved distributor in Lincolnshire for Quooker boiling water taps

0153 - MAR18 - SAFEGUARD HALF PAGE AD (90MM X 256MM)_V2.indd 1 18.indd 1

02/10/2018 10:58

The deadline for the January 2019 edition is Monday 3rd December 19/12/2018 14:41

Active life

TR AV E L

Holidays with a focus Welcome to the world of wellness holidays – a break which offers the chance to nourish your mind, body and soul in beautiful surroundings

G

ONE, FOR MANY, are the days of sprawling out on a sunlounger for a fortnight, piling on the pounds, pouring drink down your throat and hardly moving. There is now a growing band of travellers who want more from their holidays. They are either already fit and active, and want to maintain, improve and hone their skills while away, be it yoga, running or meditating; or the not so fit who want to go on a boot camp/retreat holiday where they can kickstart their fitness and diet regimes, or even go for an extreme detox. Or there are those who wish to combine fitness and therapy, and throw in some spa treatments as well – all come under the wellness holiday umbrella.

A wellness holiday can be whatever you want – spa treatments, therapies, healthy eating, hiking, cycling; you name it, you can do it, anywhere in the world. It’s all about self improvement, enhancement and progression. And what’s more, a wellness holiday is also a perfect opportunity to travel alone, as you will always meet like-minded people.

Wellness holiday experts healingholidays.co.uk/retreats walksworldwide.com thehealthyholidaycompany.co.uk

January 2019 / theactivemag.com

19 travel OK.indd 19

19

19/12/2018 13:21

Meet Bill Lindsay Kate Maxim chats with the actor and director of the King’s Cliffe Players

Active: When and why did you move to King’s Cliffe?

Bill: In 1984. My job relocated from London at a time when Peterborough was attracting a lot of companies. In the end I worked for Caterpillar as a senior systems analyst, designing computers. I lived in the Middle East from the age of four to 18; I’m British but my father is half-Egyptian and my mother is French and Ukrainian. I went to a French school and we did half our lessons in French and half in Arabic.

I had to leave Libya in a hurry, three weeks into Colonel Gaddafi’s revolution, so I hitched through Europe and arrived in London where I knew no-one. I had five shillings in my pocket.

It was strange going from having servants in the tropics to cleaning offices and sleeping on London park benches, but over time my life changed and I worked all over London. I hadn’t done much acting in school but I found it was a good way of meeting people in London.

How did King’s Cliffe Players come about?

A local drama teacher started the King’s Cliffe Players and I joined as a founder member. We started working on our first production in late 1985. It was a music hall production which is the easiest thing to do because you can rehearse the different sketches separately, then bring them together. It sold out and involved a mix of new and old village people so it wasn’t a case of new people coming in and taking over. We moved on from that to do a pantomime, which is normally put on at Christmas, but everyone is so busy then you can’t get them to rehearse, so we do ours in February. We then started to do a straight play in September/October.

It’s enshrined in our constitution that we do at least one show a year that involves the kids.

This has worked really well in our favour because it brings the whole village together.

Some of the children are adult directors now.

They start at six years old and we have them until they go off to university. This year we have three generations in Peter Pan. The youngest is six, she’s one of the lost boys and will have a couple of lines so we can see what she’s like for next year. Tinkerbell is 11, Wendy is 12 and Peter Pan is 17 which is what you’d expect. We’re doing six nights altogether, from

February 21 to 23, a matinée on Saturday, February 23, then again from February 28 to March 2.

There can’t be many villages with such a group?

It’s quite unusual, but we have been doing it for a long time. It’s a big commitment – we rehearse three times a week on Tuesday and Thursday evenings and Sunday afternoons. We have choreographers, a small orchestra of five or six people; we take pride in our work and put on a good show. When we started, the village hall was like a hole in the ground and not many people used it. We got a grant and had it done up and also put money into it.

What is the director’s role?

You find the play and work on the script so it’s usable. A lot of plays are written for places such as The Theatre Royal with acres of space. We need to see if we can work with no flight, no headroom and only two entrances. The director also runs the auditions and rehearsals, does the casting, works with the actors and is responsible for everything that happens on stage. The producer is responsible for everything else including the printing, promotion and finances. We’ve been in profit for virtually every production so we’re always trying to expand our equipment. We’ve bought lots of lighting and stage extensions so we can extend the stage by two metres.

I’d been working on Peter Pan for a couple of months before we got started. I have to attend every rehearsal and performance and think about it all the time. You have to have the confidence of your cast. I try to imagine what questions people will ask me so I have the answers ready for them. We normally have a big cast: in this there are 13 named parts, nine in the adult chorus and 12 in the children’s chorus. This will be the 12th or 13th production that I’ve directed here.

Bill, on the right, as Oberon in a production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Tolethorpe

Are you always the director?

No. This is one thing we pride ourselves on, we have a number of people who can direct. If you have the same one all the time, it kills the group. It becomes formulaic, and it’s

At least one production a year involves children, helping to bring the whole village together

20 January 2019 / theactivemag.com

20-21 DILO OK.indd 20

18/12/2018 22:23

Active life

exhausting too as it takes three or four months out of your life.

Apart from straight plays by the likes of Alan Ayckbourn, and pantomimes, we’ve also tried musicals. We’re not a musical society but we do have some strong singers and decided to go for My Fair Lady. We surprised ourselves. I directed it and it was one of the most frightening things I’ve done.

A couple of years later I directed Oliver! which also went very well. I wanted to direct The Sound of Music last year but we couldn’t get a licence as there was a touring company doing it at the same time. They didn’t want competition, which we thought was a great compliment!

You have a lot of latitude with pantomimes as you can change things, but with musicals such as My Fair Lady people know what to expect and don’t like changes. Also, when you get the licence you’re given a sheet of instructions telling you what you should or shouldn’t do.

You’ve also acted and directed at Tolethorpe. What’s your favourite play?

“We take pride in our work and put on a good show”

I’ve done 12 seasons there since 1988 and I think A Midsummer Night’s Dream and The Merchant of Venice - which is very underrated – are my favourites. During my second season at Tolethorpe I played the Prince of Morocco – I was a bit typecast, that was in 1989. I blacked up, which was acceptable, wore a white costume, and it rained. The second time I played the merchant.

I did The Dream four times; first as Theseus, second as Francis Flute – the leader of the mechanicals; third time I was Oberon (who I’ve always wanted to play) and fourth time back to Theseus. It was fun, but a big commitment as we were doing 26 performances. You’re on stage until 10.30pm, then you scrape off all the make-up and have a couple of drinks, so you’re not home until 1am.

I co-directed A Midsummer Night’s Dream 12 years ago. I was also playing Oberon, which was not a good idea and not something I’d do again. It’s just too much and you can’t be objective. I love directing and used to really love acting, but now I’m losing my hearing and it is affecting my balance. When I played Theseus last summer I stepped on stage at the dress rehearsal and discovered it was like walking on a mattress so I spent the entire production making sure I wasn’t going to fall over. I don’t act anymore.

When you’re not directing what do you do?

I like travelling, gardening and reading. I’m finding my feet after retirement. I remember my grandparents in their slippers sitting in their armchairs doing nothing really, whereas 50 is young now.

Tickets for Peter Pan are available at King’s Cliffe village shop and kingscliffeplayers.org

January 2019 / theactivemag.com

20-21 DILO OK.indd 21

21

18/12/2018 22:23

“We were assailed by the sounds of reggae and the smells of Caribbean cooking�

22 January 2019 / theactivemag.com

22-25 food review OK.indd 22

19/12/2018 12:30

Active life

TH E ACTIV E R E V I E W

Turtle Bay Maris and Mark enjoy a taste of the Caribbean at Turtle Bay in Peterborough

‘W

hy?’ asked Mark, giving me the kind of puzzled look that normally accompanies my suggestion that he read a book rather than watch the television, ‘are we going to a Caribbean-themed chain restaurant in a shopping centre in Peterborough on a Friday night?’

He needn’t have worried, for while Turtle Bay is part of a nationwide chain it has a fresh and vibrant feel more evocative of a bohemian start-up than a corporate identikit. It certainly looked inviting as we approached its welcoming entrance next to St John’s Church on the edge of Peterborough’s Queensgate on a cold winter’s night. The outdoor seating was full of post-work drinkers enjoying two for one cocktails (all day, from 11.30am to 7pm) under the glow of outdoor heaters.

On opening the doors, we were warmly welcomed and assailed by the sounds of reggae and the smells of Caribbean cooking. The central bar and open-plan kitchen, along with wooden floorboards and brightly coloured chairs, all helped to evoke a Caribbean atmosphere without seeming overly contrived.

Settling in to our seats, we surveyed the menus (there are five of them in total, including lunch, vegan and vegetarian, dinner, rum and pudding and children’s) which are similarly themed and full of informative asides that can become irritating, but on this occasion were well-judged and helpful. I had a refreshing mojito to help me concentrate while Mark, with an eye on dry-January, surveyed the extensive mocktail and soft drink list, opting for a home-made ginger beer which had a hint of lime to offset a spicy kick.

We’re new to Caribbean cuisine and, despite our best efforts, were slightly befuddled by the array of options, a point that didn’t go unnoticed by Ava, our efficient and cheerful waitress. She took pity on us and patiently explained the menu, offering suggestions based on how spicy we liked our food. Choices made, we sat back and enjoyed our drinks in the relaxed atmosphere.

Our starters arrived quickly (if you want the courses delivered at a slower pace, just ask, as nothing will faze the team) and we tucked hungrily into rustic enamel bowls of crispy chilli squid, jerk glazed pit ribs and garlic chilli prawns (three for £15). Ava had warned us that the shell on prawns would be ‘hot’ and she wasn’t wrong, but the heat didn’t overpower the dish and was well balanced by the sweetness of the squid and the accompanying mango mole. We quickly polished off the flavoursome flame grilled ribs, which fell off the bone and benefitted from a 24-hour marinade, and sat back in eager anticipation of our main courses. We weren’t disappointed.

January 2019 / theactivemag.com 23

22-25 food review OK.indd 23

18/12/2018 22:25

NNOING

JOI E FE

Start 2019 with USSC January FREE Terms and conditions apply

01572 820830

ussc@uppingham.co.uk

www.sportscentre.uppingham.co.uk

Uppingham School Sports Centre, Leicester Road, Uppingham, Rutland, LE15 9SE

t `™@_ussc

Session Details: Fridays 1.00 - 2.30pm Audit Hall, Audit Hall Road, Empingham, LE15 8PH Starting Friday 18th January

Duration: 24 weeks

Contact Details: For more information and to book your place please contact: Name: Active Rutland Health Email: activerutlandhealth@rutland.gov.uk Telephone: 01572 758200 Website: www.activerutland.org.uk

24.indd 1

19/12/2018 11:54

Active life

“The meal was extremely good value. Portions were on the large side but quality never gave way to quantity”

Mark had plumped for Turtle Bay’s signature dish and was rewarded with a rich spicy bowl of goat curry accompanied by rice ‘n’ peas, sweet plantain and two dumplings (all for a bargain £10). Washed down with a moreish Jamaican pale ale, it was both plentiful and delicious.

I’d selected another popular dish, the Mo’ Bay chicken, with jerk seasoned chicken breast, coconut rice and salad (£10.50). Accompanied by a side order of soft flat bread and ‘smashed’ avocado (two for £5.40) and washed down with a glass of malbec, this was a lightly spiced meal that tasted wonderful. We were also treated to a taste of a favourite from the vegetarian menu: chickpea and callaloo curry. For the uninitiated, callaloo is a Caribbean green leaf similar to spinach (according to the menu) and the dish, with tomatoes, garlic and scotch bonnet peppers was intensely flavoursome and a hearty, healthy delight.

We were determined to try a pudding (all £5.30) and selected the spiced rum and chocolate pot along with the grilled fresh pineapple. Both dishes came with a generous dollop of coconut ice cream and continued the Caribbean theme perfectly. The dense rum ganache of the chocolate pot was a standout and we both fought over the last scraps.

Feeling decidedly relaxed by now, we couldn’t resist a warming tot of rum from Turtle Bay’s extensive list of more than 30 Caribbean rums (£4 to £6.50). Harry, the head barman, chose a fabulous Plantation pineapple rum for us to sip and it proved a great way to round off an enjoyable meal. Savoured neat, the rich, smoky drink had a hint of citrus and was reminiscent of a single malt rather than the fire-water we remembered from our youth.

The meal was extremely good value, with drinks and food at lower prices than we’d normally expect (set lunches are a steal at three courses for £15). Portions were on the large side but quality never gave way to quantity, and although the food was spicy it was never overpoweringly hot. Turtle Bay’s take on Caribbean cuisine has a broad appeal and, with children and vegetarians particularly well catered for, it makes a great change from the usual round of Indian/Chinese/pizza/chicken restaurants.

At 10pm the music turned up a notch and the bar began to fill up.

“Two for one cocktails are back on until we close,” confirmed Ava as we said farewell. Buttoning our coats up against the cold winter air we contemplated staying on for just one more drink but decided to save that for another occasion – after all, there’s only so much Caribbean hospitality you can take in one evening!

WWW.TURTLEBAY.CO.UK 01733 344818 46 QUEENSGATE SHOPPING CENTRE, WESTGATE, PETERBOROUGH, PE1 1NH

January 2019 / theactivemag.com 25

22-25 food review OK.indd 25

19/12/2018 22:57

Finishing touches FASHION

Puffer power January is the month for buying a warm coat, so what about a puffer?

T

he puffer, a duvet that is a coat, is the perfect way to dress as though you were still in bed; all snuggled up and warm, the ultimate antidote to the British winter. Everyone is wearing a puffer, whatever their age or sex, and every shop is selling them, from Prada to Primark. And we can see why. It may not be the most sartorially elegant apparel, but it most definitely is the warmest. Puffers are quilted with ‘puffy’ sections that are either filled with goose or duck down insulation or synthetic fibres.

Whichever filling, they are very warm. The synthetic filled jackets are incredibly light; so lightweight that they can be folded up into a small bag and shoved in a handbag to be donned when needed. Uniqlo, the Japanese clothing company, is a pioneer of this sort of jacket, and many companies have quickly jumped on the bandwagon. Down filled jackets can be slightly heavier than synthetic ones, and goose down is the most expensive.

But what is most unique about a puffer, whatever the filling, is that it is able to combine warmth and lightness. And that’s perfect, an ankle length one will do me for this winter…

26 January 2019 / theactivemag.com

26-27 fashion OK.indd 26

18/12/2018 22:28

Active life

And finally...

Women’s ultra light down hooded seamless parka £69.90 uniqlo.com

BEAUTY

Seeking Serenity after the party season Kate Maxim visits Serenity Loves for a much needed facial after extensive partying for her birthday and Christmas

H

aving recently celebrated a significant birthday, drinking and eating far more than usual during numerous lunches and evening gatherings, and having quite a few late nights, I was sorely in need of a pick-me-up. My skin was crying out for attention, and I know it now needs extra tlc after the frantic Christmas period.

So I headed to Serenity Loves for a Dermalogica ProSkin 60 facial with Hannah.

Serenity Loves’ ethos is to give working men and women time away from commitments. It even has a playroom run by a CRB-checked childminder which parents can choose – if they wish – to watch on an in-salon screen.

Hannah has a lovely manner, with a wonderfully firm touch during the massage.

She was informative about the products, but not overbearing. There’s a vast array of products on the market, which can be confusing, but she advises people to talk to a beautician about their specific skin problems and to experiment with different products.

If you’re not getting the results you want, try something else. Dermalogica offer lots of products but the facials are highly targeted to each client’s current problem. The main culprits are dehydration, oiliness, fine lines, redness and sagging skin, and even though people walk in with the same problems, different combinations of products will be used on them.

I thought my main problem was sensitivity as my skin can often be quite red but, in fact, it

was dehydration, highlighted by the sheen on my forehead as my skin over produces sebum.

Hannah started with a pre-cleanse followed by a second. One cleanse is often not enough, especially when you’re wearing make-up.

My skin suitably stripped for action, she applied the daily superfoliant, laying it on quite thick so the active enzymes and acids could get on with trying to combat the environmental pollutants that accelerate the signs of ageing.

She recommended using that every other day instead of my usual micro bead exfoliant, which may be too harsh on my skin. While it was on, she massaged my neck, shoulders and arms and later she massaged my face to allow the products to reach deeper into the skin. Hannah then applied a multi-vitamin power recovery mask which aims to rescue stressed, ageing skin – perfect timing for me then! While that was on, I was treated to a lovely scalp massage.

Some people nip in for the ProSkin30 facial during their lunch break but what I really enjoyed was having the various massage treatments in addition to having my face reinvigorated. Numerous toners, eye lifts and intensive moisturisers later, I came away feeling much less tense and my skin felt plumped and hydrated. Note to self: drink more water and remember to schedule in regular facials in 2019.

A Dermalogica ProSkin 60 facial costs £42 at Serenity Loves, 438 Oundle Road, Peterborough, PE2 7DB. Tel: 01733 687835. serenityloves.co.uk

Prada cropped quilted shell down jacket £1,390 net-a-porter.com

Down and feather jacket with stormwear £99 marksandspencer.com

Peak men’s down hooded jacket £96 tog24.com January 2019 / theactivemag.com

26-27 fashion OK.indd 27

27

18/12/2018 22:28

Active 2019

The year you triumph!

Bin your resolutions now – we’ve got a full year’s worth of brilliant activities to take up and new things to try which will make dry January or eating fewer biscuits look like small fry

28 January 2019 / theactivemag.com

28-31 main feature.indd 28

19/12/2018 12:23

Feature WALK

Just put one foot in front of the other more often: it’s easy! Try and walk 10,000 steps a day – one study found that walkers who achieved this lost 10 pounds after eight months of walking, along with dropping their blood pressure and losing two inches from their waist size. Use your phone or a wearable tracker to monitor your steps.

There are plenty of ways to walk more, from following our regular structured walks (see pages 34-39) to just doing things such as parking further away from your destination, or always taking the stairs rather than the lift.

Or you could take part in the Rutland Walking and Cycling Festival at the end of May. It showcases the beautiful countryside of Rutland with a range of exciting walks, taking in the beauty and diversity of the landscape, towns and villages.

During week two of the festival you can walk the 65-mile Rutland Round across seven days with its author, John Williams.

CLIMB

Climbing is great for fitness because it uses lots of muscle groups, both in the upper and lower body, with back, abdominal and leg muscles all getting exercised as well as your fingers, shoulders and arms. But it also has lots of mental benefits too: regular rock climbing can help develop concentration, determination, goal setting and problem-solving skills.

Lincolnshire, Rutland and Leicestershire are not exactly blessed with mountains, but you can still get a climbing fix at some excellent facilities. RockBlok at Rutland Water is a sheer challenge, while Peterborough Climbing Wall is ideal for any wannabe Spiderman or Woman, arcing up from the floor, over the roof and back down again. Corby Climbing Centre is an excellent new facility too, and worth a scale.

RIDE

Whether you’re a new rider or a seasoned cyclist, the sky is really the limit when it comes to what you can achieve on two wheels and the more you ride, the more you’ll feel the hugely positive impact that cycling can have on your physical health.

The good news is that if you don’t currently ride, it’s really easy to get started. Not only do we have some glorious countryside on our doorstep, but with Rutland Water and Ferry Meadows nearby we have a huge range of quiet, traffic-free cycle routes to get started on.

Plus, with cycle hire available from Rutland Cycling at these locations there’s no need to invest in all the gear until you’re a bit more comfortable.

But what if you’ve been riding for a while and you’re ready to really step things up in 2019? Now is the time to set a goal and go for it. Whether it be to lose weight, beat your best time up a hill, complete a big ride or nail an event, setting a goal now means you’re much more likely to stick to it over the course of the year.

Once you’ve set your goal it can help to line up some events throughout the year to keep you focused and provide some milestones for your progress. Fortunately for all the roadies out there, we have the Rutland CiCLE Tour sportive to take part in. Departing from the Giant Store Rutland Water at Normanton, the event offers three routes over 62, 78 or 100 miles to provide you with some of the very best cycling that Rutland and the surrounding counties have to offer.

Taking place on Saturday, April 27, the Rutland CiCLE Tour is a perfectly placed test of your training so far if you have bigger plans in mind for the summer – the shortest 62-mile route is ideal for those new to cycling, but hard enough to provide a personal challenge, while the longer 78 and 100-mile routes will provide a real test of the legs across the surprisingly challenging Rutland landscape.

To find out more head to https://www. itpevents.co.uk/event/the-rutland-cicle-tour, or visit Giant Store Rutland to pick up all your essentials for nailing your big cycling goals this year.

January 2019 / theactivemag.com 29

28-31 main feature.indd 29

19/12/2018 12:23

RUN

If you’re looking to start running, it can be a bit intimidating to head out and pound the streets alone.

Fortunately there are plenty of clubs that will help you get going.

In south Leicestershire, Race Harborough can help you whether you run like Mo Farah or Mo from Eastenders. They organise parkruns, fun runs, duathlons, triathlons and the Festival of Running.

If you’re really looking for a challenge to work towards, there’s the Rutland half and full marathons in September, which wind their way around some truly stunning scenery.

Then there’s the Rutland Park and Stamford Striders clubs too, who can all help get you up and, well, running.

DANCE

Dancing is a great way to raise your heart rate, and you can burn more than 400 calories in an hour doing it.

It also makes your muscles work hard, which helps to maintain and improve strength, and can help improve balance and keep the centre of gravity within the body stable. Since many dance styles involve posing, it is often compulsory for dancers to have a grounded centre of gravity in order to hold a pose for an extended period of time.

MAKE

Neurological research is looking into the ways we can take care of our brains, helping to protect them against ageing and some of the associated diseases that go with it such as dementia.

Scientists believe that partaking in intellectual activities and learning new skills keeps the brain active, improving cognitive function and increasing the complexity of the brain – in short, you’re exercising the brain rather than neglecting it and allowing it to become idle.

So why not take up some new craft skills this year? There are dozens of activities locally from the usual painting and sculpting classes to learning how to make sushi.

30 January 2019 / theactivemag.com

28-31 main feature.indd 30

19/12/2018 12:23

Feature

“Yoga is hard to beat when it comes to helping body and mind”

BOX

A good way to banish those winter blues is to punch them away. Boxing is great for fitness and stress release, and you don’t have to end up looking like Rocky at the end of a 12-round slugfest.

Qualified Amateur Boxing Alliance (ABA) coach, Marcus Stanier, runs iMPACT which provides private individual and small-group fitness training sessions and aims to make the extremely effective strength and conditioning methods used in modern-day boxing training by boxers such as Britain’s own heavyweight world champion, Anthony Joshua, accessible to all.

He explains: “I fully appreciate that the word ‘boxing’ may possibly be intimidating to some people so it is important for me to stress that I understand this and that, while the sessions are centred around modern boxing training techniques, they can be tailored to individual needs.

“Some wish to focus on boxing technique purely for recreational fitness purposes and have absolutely no desire to ever

compete. Some might have tried a ‘boxercise’ class elsewhere but found that it didn’t quite give them what they were looking for.

“Whatever someone’s reason for coming to me, I find that teaching correct boxing methods and techniques gives the best results in terms of fitness gains and in terms of pure enjoyment.”

Sessions can be run in the fully-equipped boxing gym, in the home, at work or even outdoors (weather permitting) and Marcus is offering discounts on a number of packages.

He can be contacted on 07739 040 248 or marcus.stanier@gmail.com

STRETCH

Yoga is hard to beat when it comes to helping body and mind. It is especially effective at reducing stress, but it also outperforms aerobic exercise at improving balance, flexibility, strength, pain levels among seniors, menopausal symptoms, daily energy levels, and social and occupation functioning, among other health benefits.

PADDLE

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a great way to explore waterways and, when you get even more confident, the UK’s coastline too. But best to take it calmly to start with, and Tallington Lakes or Adventure Rutland are good places to start because you can hire all the kit, and get lessons too. SUP really works your core muscles so you get a tremendous workout while you’re sightseeing, and skimming over the water is very relaxing. If you’re feeling social, you can even get boards for more than one person.

January 2019 / theactivemag.com

28-31 main feature.indd 31

31

19/12/2018 12:23

G R E AT BRITISH OUTDOOR SWIMS Open water swimming is becoming increasingly popular, so if you’re heading out into the unknown depths, why not try some of these challenges?

32 January 2019 / theactivemag.com

32-33 swims OK.indd 32

19/12/2018 11:33

Feature

XERCISE IS ABOUT challenging and pushing personal boundaries. Selkie Swim Co (selkieswim. com) is an open water swimwear brand that is passionate about doing just this with open water swimmers.

It has put together a list of 10 of the greatest swims that you can take part in in the UK. If you didn’t know about these, you do now, so why not sign up and take part?

1

THE SCILLY SWIM CHALLENGES

The Scilly Swim Challenge started back in 2014 when a Yorkshireman and a Scilly native (Dewi Winkle and Nick Lishman) came together to show off the beautiful Isles of Scilly. There are three options; either the one-day event, two-day event or the Spring Scilly Challenge, all in beautiful crystal clear waters.

2

POLKERRIS SWIM FESTIVAL AND 5K

Beautiful Cornish setting, fun and friendly, the Mad Hatters Sports Events were also started in 2014 by three athletes who have competed in events in the UK and Europe. After feeling a number of events weren’t good value for money or challenging enough they decided to organise their own events with these factors in mind.

3

SELKIE HENLEY CLASSIC AND THE THAMES MARATHON

Jeremy Laming and Tom Kean (also founders of Selkie Swim Co) thought it would be fun while also naughty to swim the regatta in the early hours, word got out and more and more people joined in on the Sunday morning swim.

By 2008 it became so popular that they made it an official event.

4

UK COLD WATER CHAMPIONSHIPS

The UK Cold Water Championships is a festival of shivers and fun with wild head gear and speedsters alike. The South London Swimming Club is one of England’s oldest swimming clubs, founded back in 1906, and the last event saw more than 800 swimmers from 17 nations take part. The races also offer entertainment, refreshments and attractions for both swimmers and spectators.

5

JUBILEE RIVER SWIM

One of the must-do UK 10km swims, dreamt up in a pub back in 2011, the Jubilee has since become one of the country’s favourite swims. The swim takes place in a man-made

“If you didn’t know about these swims, you do now, so why not sign up and take part?” flood channel between Boulters Lock, near Maidenhead, and Pococks Lane in Eton. There are feed stations that you will find along the three weirs of the river length.

6

BROWNSEA SWIM

The Brownsea Swim is in a beautiful setting, in conditions that can be challenging yet fun. Once you sign up you get a ferry trip to and from the island, and once you reach the finish line you are greeted with hot soup and a bread roll that is made fresh from the Brownsea Island Castle kitchens.

7

DART 10K

Dart 10K is one of the must do 10km swims on the year’s agenda; tide assisted at the end, fun and friendly. It is a unique journey punctuated by landmarks such as the Cormorant Tree, the white rock, Sharpham boat house and Bow Creek. It is not a race as people of all abilities come to take a dip in the river and it is supported by volunteers.

8

PLYMOUTH BREAKWATER SWIM Swimmers are taken out to sea on a boat

and swim 4km back to the beach with proceeds going to the Chestnut Appeal charity.

The swim starts early at around 8:30am and it can take anything from 40 minutes to two hours before swimmers reach the shore of Tinside beach where they are greeted with applause and soup.

9

SEAHORSE SWIM

A lovely and very popular swim which raises money for The Seahorse Trust, The National Trust, The Royal Life Saving Society and East Dorset Open Water Swimming Club.

It is held at Knoll beach in Studland Bay and consists of a 2km and 3.8km course around buoys. Wetsuit or non-wetsuit swimmers are welcome.

10

GREAT SCOTTISH SWIM

A mass participation event for all abilities with a range of distances in the wonderful Loch Lomond. The Great Scottish Swim consists of six different swims to choose from – family-friendly up to a hardcore 10km swim. The loch is surrounded by wildlife, forests and mountains that make it the perfect place to visit for an open water swim in the summer.

Fancy checking out other swimming events near you? Outdoor Swimmer has a list that is constantly updated throughout the year; you can check it out here: outdoorswimmer.com/find/events

January 2019 / theactivemag.com 33

32-33 swims OK.indd 33

19/12/2018 11:34

ACTIVE INFO The website www. greatenglishchurches. co.uk describes St. John the Baptist Church in Barnack, with its superb Saxon tower, as one of ‘England’s finest churches’. It elaborates: “Barnack is one of those few churches where just about everything within or without is either unique or exceptionally fine.”

Ufford and Barnack One of England’s finest churches and an equally good pub are just two of the attractions on this stroll Words and images: Will Hetherington

The path between Ufford and Barnack

Difficulty rating TH E ROUTE

I parked on Main Street in Ufford near The White Hart pub. From here walk west along Walcot Road away from the pub. You will have the church on your left, and when you get to the end of the high stone wall on your right turn right into the entrance for Ufford Park Cricket Club.

When you reach the large new house on its own take the footpath to the left of the house and follow this gradually downhill. Stick to the path as it goes around the edge of a large arable field, passing a strategically placed bench along the way. From here you can see the rather grand Walcot Hall to the west.

The view back to Barnack from the bridge into The Synhams Wood on the Torpel Way The path goes along the south side of Ufford Oaks, a well-established block of woodland, before joining a larger farm track/footpath running north-south at the bottom. Turn right here and stay on the track for 500 metres until

you reach the left turn towards Barnack. But make sure you look back and enjoy the view of Ufford along the way.

Follow the path into Barnack and turn right when you reach the edge of the village. This path will bring you out on Main Street right by the impressive church. Turn right and follow Main Street until it reaches the B1443 – the main road running through the village. Turn right again and follow the road out of the village.

When you leave Barnack you will very shortly come to the Torpel Way footpath leading off into the fields to the right.

Take this path and follow it round as it takes you to The Synhams Wood via a small wooden bridge. Go through the wood and then turn immediately right to walk around the two sides of the field until you reach the footpath running south to the road back to Ufford. Walk up the very gradual incline back to your car or, more importantly, The White Hart.

34 January 2019 / the activemag.com

34-35 walk 1 OK.indd 34

18/12/2018 22:30

Active life

Why not pay a visit to the charming White Hart pub in Ufford?

St. John the Baptist Church in Barnack

Essential information WHERE TO PARK On Main Street in Ufford near The White Hart pub.

DISTANCE AND TIME Three and a half miles/one hour HIGHLIGHTS There are a number of good views of Barnack, Ufford and Walcot Hall from the path between the two villages. Barnack church and the White Hart in Ufford have their own strong, but differing attractions…

LOWLIGHTS The B1443 is a busy road but you won’t be walking on it for more than five minutes.

REFRESHMENTS The White Hart in Ufford and the Millstone Inn in Barnack.

START

DIFFICULTY RATING One paw. There are no hills to speak of and very few stiles, and it’s pretty easy underfoot.

©CROWN COPYRIGHT 2019 ORDNANCE SURVEY

THE POOCH PERSPECTIVE This is mostly arable land so there’s not much livestock around. There’s limited water but it’s not a long walk so that shouldn’t be too much of a problem.

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.

January 2019 / the activemag.com 35

34-35 walk 1 OK.indd 35

18/12/2018 22:31

FOREMARK GARAGE We can service any make or model of car under manufacturers warranty save money and keep your warranty ask us for a quote

LOYALTY CARD 10% Discount and FREE MOT for life of the vehicle fo only £59.95 - ask for details

Puppy Pack Clear Ridge Veterinary practice aims to help your new puppy settle in as quickly as possible and to help with this very important time in their lives.

Take a look at the details of our ‘Clear Start Puppy Pack’. This starter pack caters for all of your puppies needs and includes vaccinations, health assessment, flea treatment, worming treatment, microchip, nurse appointments, information folder and free insurance*.

INTERIM

FULL

MAJOR

Up to 1300cc

£89.95

£169.95 �

£199.95 �

1300cc - 2000cc

£99.95

£179.95 �

£209.95 �

Above 2000cc or Diesel

£109.95

£199.95 �

£219.95 �

Commercial & Motorhome

£129.95

£229.95

£249.95

MOT only £25 with Major Service. All prices include labour, materials, consumables & VAT. 10% extra for 6 & 8 cylindar cars. � 20% extra for replacement of platinum plugs 9-10 Station Approach, Oakham LE15 6QW

OA STATION APPR

RO

N

Clear Start

SERVICES

Travis Perkins

CH

Railway Statio

01572 757 254

AD

Opening times: Mon - Fri: 8am - 5.30pm Sat: 8am - 12.30pm. Sun: Closed

n

T MEL

We also offer great discounts off future consults and treatments.

CAR & LIGHT COMMERCIAL SERVICING

APPROVED DEALER LEVEL SERVICING

IO AT ST

SERVICING & MOT SUSPENSION TOW BARS SUPPLIED & FITTED BRAKES & CLUTCHES PAINT & BODY REPAIRS AIR CONDITIONING ENGINE DIAGNOSTICS MOTORHOME SERVICE & REPAIRS WELDING TYRES LIGHT COMMERCIAL SERVICE & REPAIRS 4X4 SERVICE & REPAIRS

ON

RO

AD

www.foremarkgarage.co.uk

The Clear Start Package covers all of your young puppy’s essentials for three months: • First full course of standard primary vaccinations - We offer Lepto 2 vaccinations.

We recommend puppies are vaccinated from 8 weeks of age. The course consists of 2 vaccinations given either 2-4 weeks apart.

Your puppy will then be vaccinated against Canine Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvo virus and Para-influenza virus and Leptospirosis.

Yearly booster vaccinations will then be recommended to maintain immunity.

• A general health check - You will have a 20 minute consultation with one of our vets which will enable you to discuss any questions or problems you may be experiencing.

• Nurse consultations - As your puppy grows and develops into a young dog, you are sure to have questions.

Our nurses will be there to help and advise you along the way. They can discuss: Diet, weight, suitable play/ toys, behaviour & training tips, exercise requirements, preventative dental care and neutering.

• • • •

One worming treatment One flea treatment Microchip 10% off subsequent flea & worming treatment for 1yr • 10% off 1st annual booster vaccination (at 12 months) • 10% off your next consultation • 4 weeks free insurance*

All for just £50.00. For more information or to discuss any part in more detail, please call and speak to any of the Clear Ridge Team at our Stamford practice: Tel 01780 764333 or Orton Wistow Tel: 01733 230000

www.clearridgevets.co.uk

36.indd 1

19/12/2018 11:54

Active life

ACTIVE INFO Saddington Reservoir is just to the south-east of the village and was constructed in 1802 to feed the nearby Grand Union Canal.

Peashill Farm occupies an idyllic spot on this charming walk

Mowsley and Saddington This is a peaceful stroll in rural south Leicestershire, as Will Hetherington discovers Images: Will Hetherington

Difficulty rating TH E ROUTE

I parked on Main Street in Mowsley just in front of St Nicholas’ Church. Walk north on Main Street for 50 yards and you will see the footpath heading off between two houses on the left where the road bends round to the right.

Very shortly you will come to a footpath junction where you ignore the left-hand option and head straight on. Walk downhill diagonally across the first field and you will find the previously unsighted route marker on the field boundary.

From here proceed through a number of small fields as you head north through classic rolling Leicestershire countryside. You will pass idyllic looking Peashill Farm on your left and then enjoy some big views to the north, before dropping down a few contour lines into the vale beneath. Follow the path as far as Saddington Lodge Farm where you will find the right turn towards Saddington.

After a couple of fields the path splits into two. I took the left-hand option, which was very pleasant, but they both go to the same place at the top of the hill so it’s your choice.

When you reach Saddington the path joins the road and it’s a short walk to the church and the Queen’s Head just beyond. The return footpath goes down the side of the church and through a farmyard before a short fenced-in

section leads to the Mowsley Road crossing.

Cross the road and follow the path downhill to the bridge over the brook in a small piece of woodland. Keep following the path as it skirts along the eastern side of Mowsley Brook, but be warned as I found it quite overgrown and boggy for a short stretch here. (If you want to miss this section there is a footpath which joins the road slightly beforehand. It will mean more time on the road but it might be worth it and it’s a fairly quiet country lane.)

Ultimately the path heads uphill and then joins the road half a mile north of Mowsley after some farm buildings which, unusually, are not marked on the OS map. From here it’s a 10 to 15-minute walk back to the village along the road, and the The Staff of Life pub awaits you there if you need some refreshment.

January 2019 / theactivemag.com

37-39 walk 2 OK.indd 37

37

19/12/2018 14:30

SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1975

www innerwolf co uk online and in-store

Healthy from the

Inside Out

GEORGE HALLS CYCLE CENTRE 01858 465507 10-12, NORTHAMPTON ROAD, georgehallscycle@aol.com MARKET HARBOROUGH, www.georgehallscycles.co.uk LEICS LE16 9HE

A

n e e r dG

o bout o W sk ga hin a pet t y n a ing own

We offer free pet advice We can help you: find your perfect pet care for your pet improve your relationship with your pet.

Call 0300 303 9333 or visit woodgreen.org.uk #askwoodgreen

Wood Green – bringing pets and people closer together Wood Green, The Animals Charity, Registered Charity No. 298348

00396 Ask Wood Green Dog 188 x 125.indd 1

38.indd 1

00396JJ1118

14/11/2018 15:37

19/12/2018 11:54

Active life The view on arrival in Saddington at the halfway point

This path will take you south-west out of Saddington just before crossing Mowsley Road

The Queen’s Head in Saddington might be a good halfway option for you on this walk

Essential information WHERE TO PARK I parked on Main Street in Mowsley.

DISTANCE AND TIME Four and a half miles/an hour and a half HIGHLIGHT Very pretty rolling Leicestershire countryside and two pleasant little villages.

LOWLIGHTS The final off-road section is quite overgrown and boggy (but can be avoided).

REFRESHMENTS The Staff of Life in Mowsley and the Queen’s Head in Saddington.

DIFFICULTY RATING Three paws. It’s rolling countryside with a fair few stiles.

©CROWN COPYRIGHT 2019 ORDNANCE SURVEY

START

THE POOCH PERSPECTIVE There is quite a lot of livestock on the way round this walk including cattle, sheep and horses, so it’s not ideal for the dogs if you don’t have complete control over them.

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.

January 2019 / theactivemag.com 39

37-39 walk 2 OK.indd 39

18/12/2018 22:32

FREE

asses consu sment ltation

The latest laser and injectable cosmetic procedures performed by fully qualified GP or Nurse Practitioner Laser Treatments Include:

• Laser tattoo removal • IPL photo-rejuvenation • Hair removal • Rosacea & facial redness • Facial & leg veins & vascular lesions • Pigmented skin lesions & sun damage

All in addition to our usual range of Medical Aesthetic Treatments: • Muscle relaxing injections for lines & wrinkles • 8 point non-surgical face lift • Non-surgical 15 minute Rhinoplasty • Volite & Restylane Vital skin rejuvenation • Juvederm & Restylane dermal fillers • Silhouette Soft Thread lifts • Treatment for excessive underarm sweating (hyperhidrosis) • Minor surgical procedures including mole removal & non-scalpel vasectomy

www.glen-edenmedical.co.uk 01476 550056

The Market Cross Surgery, Bourne Road, Corby Glen, Lincs NG33 4BB

40.indd 1

19/12/2018 11:54

ActiveBody How to succeed with new year resolutions | Dealing with heel pain E DI T E D BY ST E V E MO ODY

A healthy hibernation Nutritionist Dawn Revens reveals five ways to reduce body fat gain during the winter months

T

HE CLIENTS I have been working with over the past few weeks are worrying about the damage that the winter will do to their body fat levels and weight. In the northern hemisphere, this is the time of year when there are fewer races and training volume and intensity drops. It’s also Christmas time and if you’re office based then it can be really hard to ignore the endless chocolates, yule logs and mince pies.

Guzzling these treats with a cup of coffee means that your body has to produce lots of insulin to keep your blood sugar under control. If you’re sat doing nothing, the insulin will drive fat storage, particularly around your middle. Not surprisingly the average person is around 1kg heavier at the end of the festive season. That means that some people gain very little and some people gain a lot more.

So how can you make sure that you are one of the ones that doesn’t pile on the pounds?

Here’s my top five tips to help you:

For a few weeks, use an app such as My Fitness Pal (MFP) to track your calorie intake. Are you eating more than you need to in light of your reduced activity level? If so, eat smaller portions and if you still feel hungry increase your veg intake.

1

2

MFP will also give you a feel for the macronutrient profile of your food – i.e the percentage carbohydrate to fat to protein. If your training volume and intensity levels are lower, you can reduce your carbohydrate intake to reflect that. Once your muscle and

liver glycogen stores are full, excess carbohydrate will typically be stored as fat.

3

If you’re doing shorter training sessions of 90 minutes or less, you won’t use up a high number of calories so you won’t need to eat a lot of additional food. Just eat good quality foods at meal times to ensure your body gets the protein, good fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals it needs to repair and rebuild your muscles and skeleton.

4

If you feel hungry mid-morning, ask yourself what you had for breakfast? If it was cereal and a couple of slices of toast with jam, you are likely to spend the rest of the day on a blood sugar and insulin rollercoaster. To avoid this make sure you eat enough protein at breakfast. Research has shown that people who do eat less during the rest of the day.

5

Are you drinking enough? We sometimes mistake thirst for hunger so always try a glass of water first before reaching for a snack.

A glass of water drunk 30 minutes before you eat can be used tactically to make you feel full before you eat, meaning you should eat less.

By following these tips it’s likely you will put on fewer pounds over the festive period, meaning there are less to lose when you start to ramp up your training from January.

Dawn Revens is The Compeater and works with endurance athletes to optimise their nutrition so they can get amazing training in racing results.

January 2019 / theactivemag.com

43 body opener OK.indd 41

41

19/12/2018 14:29

Dark matters How to limit the impact of winter on mental health and well-being. By Cathy Lawson

C

HRISTMAS HAS COME and gone, over for another year. For some it was a time of great joy, merriment, over-indulgence and pleasure. Others, however, found it an endurance, a challenging period of family conflicts, financial hardship, deep sadness and high stress levels. And while stress in itself is not a diagnosable mental illness, it can definitely exacerbate existing, or contribute to, common mental health issues and illnesses such as anxiety and depression.

Winter brings less daylight hours and the endless dark mornings and nights can bring about feelings of anxiety, loneliness and isolation. Even when surrounded by other people, a lack of connection, interaction, meaningful communication or not feeling understood or cared for can lead to loneliness. It has been said that nowadays we spend more time working out how to speed-up communication with people in Australia than we do checking on our neighbours!

And like stress, loneliness is not a mental illness, but it has been shown to have a negative impact on mental health. The mental health charity Mind (mind.org.uk) has some useful ideas for coping with and overcoming loneliness. They talk about it being ‘helpful to think of feeling lonely like feeling hungry. Just as your body uses hunger to tell your body you need food, loneliness is a way of your body telling you that you need more social contact’, so consider the following: › Making new connections and increasing social contact – consider what interests you from sailing, knitting, running to yoga, and join a club, group or class where you can interact with others. › Volunteering is another good way of meeting new people and making new friends –do-it.org is a charity that recruits volunteers for good causes. › If face-to-face interaction is too much to start with, try joining an online community – there is a list of options on the Mind website with guidelines for staying safe online.

Spending less time outside and a lack of sunlight can reduce the levels of a hormone called serotonin which is associated with boosting mood and helping us to feel calm, focused and energised. For anyone already feeling low this can tip them into major depression triggered by the changing season, commonly known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Approximately 10 to 20% of people with depression report that the seasons affect their mental health.

Limited exposure to sunlight on the skin can also affect the production of vitamin D, commonly known as the ‘sunshine vitamin’.

We need vitamin D to keep our bones and muscles healthy; however, it has also been discovered that reduced levels can contribute to mood disorders, poor sleep and depression.

To keep well and healthy throughout the winter period, consider… › Getting more vitamin D by eating a diet rich in oily fish such as tuna and mackerel, red meat, liver, egg yolks and fortified cereals. If you are vegetarian or vegan then consider taking a supplement, something that doctors are also now prescribing. › Spend time outside between the hours of 10am and 3pm for as little as 10 to 15 minutes to generate healthy levels of vitamin D. › Make sure you keep up exercise in the winter, ideally outside. The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week so get those walking/running shoes on. › Invest in a Lumie Lamp which mimics the natural light at sunrise and sunset, helping to increase serotonin levels. They have been shown to boost mood, raise energy levels and increase concentration. These are particularly helpful for shift workers and those working at night when the body assumes it really should be asleep.

Winter is naturally a time for hunkering down, hibernating, rejuvenating and reflecting more, so go with the flow of the season, take time to consider how to keep yourself well and happy and remember to check on those around you.

Cathy Lawson, approved Mental Health First Aid instructor cathy@maestrowellbeing.com maestrowellbeing.co.uk 07771 550541

42 January 2019 / the ctivemag.com

42-43 body spread OK.indd 42

19/12/2018 11:37

ActiveBody

Resolve your resolutions Thinking about making changes in 2019? If you’re going to set goals, do it properly to maximise your chances of succeeding, says therapist Lisa Johnston

Three keys to goal success

T

HE DAWN OF a new year acts as a motivator for many to set resolutions or think about aspirations for the year ahead. It’s that time where we draw a line under the way things have been and consider how we would like things to be.

Typically people target their new year resolutions around diet and fitness aspirations, but people are also placing more emphasis on self-development and improved well-being.

These well-being goals could look at better managing stress levels, working on selfconfidence, overcoming a fear or finally addressing that one thing you have been putting off year after year.

To give ourselves the best chance of success we need to change the way we approach setting the goals themselves and then ensure we create helpful habits and put in place a support framework to give us the opportunity to succeed.

New year resolutions shouldn’t be seen as the big list of changes that we know we will never get around to completing. By knowing our values and setting ourselves a smaller number of realistic and well considered targets, we can give ourselves the best chance of succeeding. Make 2019 the year you reach your targets and thrive.

Here are my top tips for achieving your targets and establishing good habits that will help you to reach the levels you set yourself...

Know your values well

Before committing, ask yourself ‘why is this so important to me?’. Often people choose goals that actually hold no ultimate value to them and set themselves up for failure from the off.

Pick targets that really matter and you have a

1

LESS LEADS TO MORE Consider setting yourself fewer goals this year. With less to focus on, your energy levels and commitment to achieve them becomes less diluted. Set yourself no more than four.

2

FIND A GOAL BUDDY When we share our goals and how we plan to achieve them, the process of sharing and regularly checking in with another person ensures greater accountability in continuing to move forwards with them.

genuine interest in progressing or achieving your target. Then every three months, ask yourself ‘is this goal still really important to me?’. This regular check-in helps keep your goals aligned with the values you hold. If the goal no longer seems important, simply drop it and re-focus on ones that do.

SMARTen up your resolutions The SMART acronym has a few variations, but generally stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound.

Specific goals are well defined and have a much greater chance of being achieved than general ones. You should put enough detail down so that there is no indecision as to what exactly you should be doing to succeed. An example would be: ‘spend less time on social media’, but a specific goal would say: ‘reduce time spent on social media by putting my phone on charge at 9pm downstairs’.

It should clarify what your behaviour should be, what action should be carried out, where this takes place, how often it takes place and who else is involved.

Your goals should be measurable to allow you to track your progress against them. This is important because noticing progress

3

DON’T BE TOO HARD ON YOURSELF! The most negative or critical voice can often be our own.

Rather than thinking about the things you should have done better, get into the habit of acknowledging what you have done and celebrating it, however small it may be.

increases motivation. Your goals might be measurable on a sliding scale between one and 10 or they could simply be a hit or miss measure. In our social media example, we could say: ‘spend at least one hour a day less on social media’ and then measure it.

Achievable means be realistic. Reducing our social media time by one hour a day should be achievable, but setting a goal of not accessing any social media at all may be less so.

Relevant goals are those that you have chosen in line with your core values. As I mentioned earlier, value-based goals are far more motivating and far more likely to be achieved.

The Time-bound nature of goal setting ensures we give ourselves a timeframe for each to be achieved. It attaches a sense of urgency to our behaviour. Try to set your goals with a shorter time-frame, as immediate goals often see better performance than longer-term ones.

Lisa Johnston is the co-founder of My Therapist Online and connects people who want to better their well-being and happiness with the right therapist. Visit www.MyTherapistOnline.co.uk for more information or get in touch at info@MyTherapistOnline.co.uk

January 2019 / theactivemag.com 43

42-43 body spread OK.indd 43

19/12/2018 11:37

Open MRI

44.indd 1

19/12/2018 11:54

ActiveBody

Heel pain Can’t stand the discomfort in your ‘hindfoot’ area? Dr Hany Elmadbouh, senior consultant at Avicenna Clinic, explains what might be happening

T

HE ANKLE AND foot are made up of multiple complex networks of bones, tendons and ligaments. The ankle and foot carry the body weight and its damage can affect other body structures and lead to additional problems which can be quite disabling.

The hindfoot is the most posterior portion of the foot, and is formed by the heel and ankle.

The talus bone, together with the leg bones (tibia and fibula), forms the ankle. The calcaneus (heel bone) is the largest bone in the foot and it is connected to the talus at the subtalar joint. Muscles, tendons and ligaments run along the surfaces of the feet, allowing the complex movements needed for motion and balance. The Achilles tendon connects the heel to the calf muscle and the plantar fascia is the ligament that connects the heel bone to base of the toes and supports the arch of the foot.

Pain in the heel can be caused by many conditions. The most common cause is inflammation of the plantar fascia, called plantar fasciitis. Other causes may include fracture of the heel bone (calcaneum), arthritis in the ankle or heel (subtalar) joint and irritation of the nerves on the inner or outer sides of the heel.

Strenuous activities that involve the plantar fascia can cause micro tears, which may result in degenerative changes, inflammation and pain. Plantar fasciitis may result from chronic trauma, such as running in unsupportive shoes, standing for prolonged periods, especially on a hard surface, or for no apparent reason. The condition is more common in overweight people and those who suffer a rheumatological condition or have a high arched or flat foot.

Plantar fasciitis is characterised by pain with weight bearing that is worse in the morning but the pain will typically go away after a short period of walking later in the day.

The diagnosis is based on the location of the pain: tenderness where the ligament attaches to the base of the heel. The diagnosis can be further confirmed by ultrasound or MRI.

About Avicenna Clinic Avicenna Clinic in Peterborough has a range of specialist consultants, an operating theatre for surgical procedures and superior in-house imaging facilities – including state-of-theart MRI, ultrasound and X-ray scanning equipment. The team can assess and diagnose all cases of acute and chronic pain quickly and deliver comprehensive treatment plans tailored to you. To book a consultation or for more information on treating your pain, and to explore the other available services to help you, contact Avicenna Clinic on 0330 202 0597.

Usually plantar fasciitis eventually gets better by itself, but this can take months or even years. This injury can be especially difficult to manage because it can only heal with a period of absolute rest, which is difficult to achieve. A patient who suffers plantar fasciitis once has a higher chance of having it again.

Physiotherapy is the primary treatment for the condition. Exercises include stretching to relieve tension in the plantar fascia and can include pulling back on the toes while massaging the tender area, as well as doing a

‘runner’s stretch’ of the calf muscle, which in turn decreases tension in the fascia. Rolling a tennis ball or a frozen bottle of water along the bottom of the foot may also be helpful.

Sometimes the use of a night splint which holds the calf in a stretched position may be needed and there may be also benefit from orthotics to distribute pressure to the feet more evenly.

Pain relievers such as ibuprofen may ease the pain and inflammation associated with plantar fasciitis.

Ultrasound guided injecting of a steroid and more recently platelet-rich plasma into the area can provide pain relief. Extracorporeal shock wave therapy is usually used for chronic plantar fasciitis that hasn’t responded to more conservative treatments. The technique involves sound waves directed at the area of heel pain to stimulate healing.

More than 95% of patients with plantar fasciitis get better without surgery. Those who fail conservative treatment and continue to have symptoms may undergo procedures that reduce tension on the plantar fascia by detaching the ligament from the heel bone.

January 2019 / theactivemag.com 45

47 avicenna OK.indd 45

19/12/2018 12:41

Running Shop Run by Runners Large Shoe Range I Gait Analysis Friendly Service I Clothing Accessories 146A Clarendon Park Road, LE2 3AE 0116 2708447

54.indd 1

www.leicesterrunningshop.co.uk

19/12/2018 11:55

Active Kids Catmose disability athletics | Stamford and Rutland Junior Netball League finals | Charlotte’s golden finish | Eddie Jones visits Stamford E DI T E D BY ST E V E MO ODY

Image: Dorte Kjaerulff

GIVE A TRI A TRY – H O W T O G E T I N V O LV E D p. 52

January 2019 / the activemag.com

47 kids opener OK.indd 47

47

19/12/2018 12:41

For Kids going places...

New Spring/Summer 19 collection launching Febuary 1st 2019

Enjoy 30% OFF Enter promo code ACTIVE30

3

*Please note Promotion code only applies to Spring Summer Collection

[] [] [] [] [] [] [] [] [] []

Back To School

astros trainers gum shield & scrum cap hockey stick netball stuff shorts and skort squash racket base layers rugby boots shin pads

BOURNE - 26/28 North St. 01778 426482 OAKHAM - 20/22 Catmos St. 01572 722675

48.indd 1

19/12/2018 14:43

Active Kids

Dominic cooks up a storm

Netball finals THE FINALS OF Stamford and Rutland Junior Netball League’s very first mini-league took place recently, in which 12 junior teams played for final placings after the initial group stages which took place throughout November.

Teams from Stamford, Ketton, Uffington, Yaxley, Bourne and Gretton battled it out over four weeks at Copthill School, and were able to experience competitive netball in a friendly, fun and supportive environment.

The league played host to an under 10 and under 12 section. The overall winners of the under 10 section were Shooting Stars 2, while Gretton’s Blue Belles took the under 12 title.

The league is now planning its spring competition, with under 9, under 11 and under 14 sections planned.

Interested teams or players can find the league on Facebook, or can contact Tina Sayers on 07789 923960.

STAMFORD HIGH SCHOOL played host to the annual Rotary Young Chef competition organised by the Stamford Rotary Club.

Ten pupils from the Stamford Endowed Schools, along with pupils from Stamford Welland Academy, were challenged to produce a two-course meal in line with the healthy eating guidelines in 90 minutes. Stamford School year 8 pupil Dominic impressed the culinary competition chefs from RAF Wittering with his menu consisting of: • Tenderloin fillet of pork with a lemon, mint and garlic crust served on a bed of mashed potato infused with olive oil • Petit pois à la Francaise • Roasted butternut squash • Tangy lemon soufflé with fresh raspberries.

Dominic will now progress to the District Young Chef Competition in the spring.

Leicester Grammar’s morning mile LEICESTER GRAMMAR JUNIOR School’s morning mile took on a festive theme in December. Every Tuesday morning before the school day begins, pupils, staff and parents are invited to join in with the school’s ‘morning mile’.

Attracting up to 50 runners of all abilities, the route, set around the school grounds, takes in views of the local countryside and leaves participants feeling invigorated and inspired for the day ahead.

January 2019 / theactivemag.com 49

49 kids news OK.indd 49

19/12/2018 12:49

琀㨀 ㄀㜀㜀㠀 ㌀㐀㘀㘀㄀㄀ 攀㨀 椀渀昀漀䀀欀氀漀猀攀渀⸀挀漀⸀甀欀 眀㨀 眀眀眀⸀欀氀漀猀攀渀⸀挀漀⸀甀欀 昀愀挀攀戀漀漀欀⸀挀漀洀⼀欀氀漀猀攀渀甀欀 䬀氀漀猀攀渀Ⰰ 吀栀攀 匀琀椀爀氀椀渀最 䌀攀渀琀爀攀Ⰰ 䴀愀爀欀攀琀 䐀攀攀瀀椀渀最Ⰰ 倀䔀㘀 㠀䔀儀

䄀氀甀洀椀渀椀甀洀 䈀椀昀漀氀搀 䐀漀漀爀猀 簀 圀椀渀搀漀眀猀 簀 䘀爀漀渀琀 䐀漀漀爀猀 簀 刀漀漀昀氀椀最栀琀猀 簀 匀氀椀搀椀渀最 䐀漀漀爀猀 簀 倀爀攀洀椀甀洀 甀倀嘀䌀 圀椀渀搀漀眀猀 ∠䴀愀渀甀昀愀挀琀甀爀攀爀猀 愀渀搀 䤀渀猀琀愀氀氀攀爀猀 漀昀 琀栀攀 瘀攀爀礀 戀攀猀琀 愀氀甀洀椀渀椀甀洀 最氀愀稀椀渀最 猀礀猀琀攀洀猀 昀爀漀洀 愀挀爀漀猀猀 䔀甀爀漀瀀攀 ∠䠀椀最栀氀礀 琀栀攀爀洀愀氀氀礀 攀昀昀椀挀椀攀渀琀 愀渀搀 椀渀挀爀攀搀椀戀氀礀 猀琀礀氀椀猀栀⸀ 倀愀猀猀椀瘀栀愀甀猀 挀愀瀀愀戀椀氀椀琀椀攀猀Ⰰ 眀栀攀渀 爀攀焀甀椀爀攀搀 ∠䠀椀最栀氀礀 欀渀漀眀氀攀搀最攀愀戀氀攀 猀琀愀昀昀 眀栀漀 漀昀昀攀爀 攀砀挀攀氀氀攀渀琀 愀搀瘀椀挀攀 ∠䔀砀挀攀瀀琀椀漀渀愀氀氀礀 栀椀最栀 猀攀挀甀爀椀琀礀 爀愀琀椀渀最 漀渀 愀氀氀 瀀爀漀搀甀挀琀猀Ⰰ 洀愀渀礀 愀挀栀椀攀瘀椀渀最 倀䄀匀 ㈀㐀

Bleed Template.indd 118

15/12/2016 17:27

Active Kids

Charlotte ends 2018 on a high with another gold

Catmose success in Disability Athletics STUDENTS FROM CATMOSE College recently took part in the Disability Athletics Competition.

KS3 students competed at Crown Hill Academy at the end of November and came sixth out of 27 teams. KS4 competed the following week at Aylestone Leisure Centre and again came sixth out of 18 teams this time.

One year 11 pupil, Amy, took part in all events – target throw, javelin, speed bounce, hi stepper and shot put – and was ranked the overall wheelchair athlete of the day.

The scores from the first round are calculated depending upon the severity of the disability

and the top five scorers from each team go through to the next stage. Team Catmose qualified for the regional round of the competition which took place on December 7 at Aylestone Leisure Centre The students performed brilliantly at the regional round with the KS3 team achieving fourth place and the KS4 team placing third, and all received bronze medals.

Special mentions to Harvey, from year 8, who gained a National Standard Silver Award, and Harry from year 10, who gained the highest score on speed bounce out of all competitors – an amazing 73 jumps in 30 seconds.

England rugby head coach Eddie Jones visits Stamford

Mark Nasey, director of sport and performance at the Stamford Endowed Schools, said: “On behalf of Stamford School and the local community we would like to thank Eddie for giving up so much time to support grass roots rugby.

“It is remarkable that someone of his standing would happily give up his time and share his knowledge of rugby in schools with our community.

“His visit will live long in all our memories and will ensure even more support for the England team heading into the Six Nations and Rugby World Cup this year.”

AFTER BEING NAMED as one of the country’s top five rugby schools (according to ‘Fifteen’ – a national online rugby commentary for the first XV’s victory over Rugby School the previous week), Stamford School enjoyed a visit from England rugby head coach, Eddie Jones.

Both the under 15 and under 16 teams had the opportunity to display their skills as they took on Loughborough Grammar School in their Saturday afternoon matches. Parents and students were honoured to welcome Eddie Jones to the sidelines as they took the chance to take a selfie and get an autograph.

Around 300 parents and students were then invited to the Oswald Elliott Hall for a Q&A session with Eddie. He spoke about the importance and value of sport and answered a variety of questions from the audience.

In the evening, Eddie joined a fund-raising event in aid of the next school rugby tour to Australia and New Zealand.

CHARLOTTE BOLTON ACHIEVED a gold medal and set a new GB record in the mixed junior relay at the British Rowing Indoor Championship (BRIC) held at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London.

Charlotte, a Stamford High School pupil, was one of 1,500 competitors, from elite Olympians to student novices, taking part in the event at the iconic Olympic velodrome in London.

After being crowned women’s junior national champion with her partner, Poppy, at the junior national rowing championships in the spring, Charlotte is going from strength to strength in the sport.

This latest win is the culmination of a year of hard work with the GB Rowing Development Programme and shows how far she has come since her bronze medal at the indoor championships last December.

January 2019 / the activemag.com

51 kids news OK.indd 51

51

18/12/2018 23:20

Image: Dave Tyrell/British Triathlon

Try a tri Swimming, running, cycling... all things kids love, so why not combine them in a triathlon? Caroline and Justin Hattee have written a book to get you and your family started

Club, has won the prestigious East Midlands Series as well as several Active Rutland Awards. Here’s some excerpts from their book...

Kids

“This book is for you, not your mums and dads.

We all know your parents can be daft sometimes, mess things up and put you under unnecessary pressure. Oh, and they can be really embarrassing too. So, this book aims to give you the knowledge to develop your triathlon skills and the confidence to train and race sooner rather than later. You don’t need to rely on your parents – you can take control!

“We want to give you the knowledge and confidence to enter your first race, together with ‘tri hacks’ and advice that will help you to improve. We promise you’ll get better – but you’ll need to put a little effort in.

“If you’re already racing, then you’ll find the ‘racing hacks’, ‘developing’ and ‘what next’ sections of the book most useful. These sections are aimed at those of you who have already got

the triathlon ‘bug’ and are taking your triathlon more seriously.

“We hope you practice, have fun learning from your mistakes and enjoy triathlon for the rest of your lives.”

Parents

“Whether you’ve raced a bit (or even a lot) or know next to nothing about triathlon, except once seeing a clip of Alistair Brownlee pushing

Image: Tom Hattee

T

RIATHLONS ARE BECOMING increasingly popular for children, not least because they involve three activities most children love: running about, riding a bike and swimming.

It’s also an easy sport to get involved in because you probably have the kit already: swimming cap and goggles, some trainers and a bike, and while you can of course spend heavily on the latter, it’s not necessary to begin with – any bike that fits them will do the job.

To help you and your children to start, local triathletes Caroline and Justin Hattee have produced a book on the subject, explaining what you and your kids need to do, alongside great training regimes.

Caroline and Justin are Triathlon England medallists and have both won Triathlon England’s East Midlands Children’s Coach of the Year awards. Caroline has also won the Triathlon England National Children’s Coach of the Year and Rutland Coach of the Year awards.

The club they set up, Ketton Panthers Triathlon

52 January 2019 / theactivemag.com

52-53 kids tri OK.indd 52

18/12/2018 22:34

Active Kids

Image: Dave Tyrell/British Triathlon

“We hope they’ll be inspired and develop a love of swimming, cycling and running that will last them forever”

Want to start triathlons?

Try Ketton Panthers Justin and Caroline set up Ketton Panthers, spurred on by the glory of the London Olympics, on a quiet lane outside their home in Rutland. Word quickly spread and when 30 kids turned up they realised that they’d upset the neighbours if they kept closing the road.

Moving to the local sports centre, obtaining British Triathlon coaching certificates and benefitting from the superb support of coaches, committee members and parents alike (all giving freely of their time), the club expanded quickly to more than 150 members and gradually took over their lives.

The club now also runs a ‘minis’ group (for 4 – 7 year olds), an ‘academy’ (for older, developing triathletes) and sessions for kids with Down’s Syndrome and those on the autistic spectrum.

Visit: ketton-panthers.weebly.com

his barely conscious brother, Jonny, over the finishing line in Cozumel in 2016, it doesn’t matter. Kids’ triathlon is different in one massive way – you are not racing, your kids are. So ‘back off mum’, ‘shut up dad’; let them get on with it, in their own way. Yes, they will make mistakes, even the professionals make errors that result in penalties and disqualifications, but they will learn from their experience and ultimately enjoy it.

“Most importantly, don’t be the mum on the bike route urging seven-year-old Mavis to ‘put the hammer down’ or the dad on the run route shouting ‘stop throwing up Colin, hurry up, Archibald is catching you’ (yes, we’ve seen and heard it). They will be going as fast as they can at that point. What they need is your calm support pre-race, positive encouragement during the race and honest congratulations post-race, no matter how well they perform.

“Only through this positivity will your kids develop a love for triathlon that will last them their lifetime. Racing is stressful enough as adults, so imagine what it’s like for a sevenyear old about to start their first swim leg.

Please don’t put them off by placing too much pressure on them at such a young age. Put your

energies into ensuring they have the right support network.

“By empowering your young triathlete we hope they’ll be inspired and develop a love of swimming, cycling and running that will last them forever. They will still need your support and encouragement, but with a bit of luck you’ll also realise that they know what they are doing, so you can stop worrying... and enjoy the race.”

Kids’ Triathlon – The Essential Guide is available on Amazon at £19.99: amazon.co.uk/dp/1790535212

January 2019 / theactivemag.com 53

52-53 kids tri OK.indd 53

18/12/2018 22:34

GUN SHOP MARKET HARBOROUGH EST.1974

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

01858 466616 SHAUN@SHOOTERSSUPPLIES.CO.UK 32 ST. MARY‘S ROAD, MARKET HARBOROUGH, LEICESTERSHIRE LE16 7DU

46.indd 1

19/12/2018 15:44

Reader challenges | Local club updates | Essential sports kit

ActiveSport No mad dogs, just poodles Obscene amounts of money has dampened the passion of some of the top footballers

S

carcely a day went by in the run-up to Christmas without David Attenborough popping up on the telly to offer dire warnings on global warming. Time, it seems, is running out. Otherwise, all the parts of the globe currently occupied by polar bears and penguins will shortly be populated by scorpions, lizards and Easyjet passengers fresh off the plane from Luton airport.

The finger is being pointed at the usual suspects – diesel engines, fossil fuels and vast acres of rainforest being turned into soya bean fields – but neither should we under-estimate the twin threats of a cow’s bottom and Manchester United’s football manager; between them delivering, in industrial quantities, a lethal cocktail of methane gas and hot air.

It is a while now since José Mourinho anointed himself ‘the special one’, and who could argue? When you’re put in charge of the world’s most glamorous football club, and then spend shed loads of money to get them playing with all the flair of Hartlepool United, let’s be honest... that’s special. But does José acknowledge that he might have played some small part in his club’s stewards having to go round shaking people awake after the final whistle? You must be joking. How can it be, he argues, when you’ve won as many trophies as me? No. It’s the players’ fault for being fat and lazy. There are, he laments, no ‘mad dogs’ in his team, by which he means players who spend all 90 minutes running themselves into the ground.

Strangely, the two obvious reasons they don’t appear to have escaped him. Firstly, why would you shed any sweat for a bloke who continually slags you off in public? And secondly, why would you not develop an aversion to hard work when you’re paid such ridiculous amounts of money that you end up like that bloke in Downton Abbey. Unable to dress yourself for dinner without a valet and incapable, when you get to the table, of passing the marmalade without ringing the butler’s bell.

It’s a wonder all Premiership footballers don’t end up like Gorgeous Gus, centre forward for Redburn Rovers in the Victor comic who, as a member of the aristocracy, really did have a butler. The Earl of Boote, to give him his hereditary title, would hand his cloak to his faithful manservant just before kick off, and refuse to break into so much as a trot.

Demanding that the ball be delivered precisely to the business end of his right boot. Which would then propel the ball, from anywhere up to 50 yards away, into the goal with such ferocity that play would then have to be halted while they repaired the net.

Gus’ shirt was so free of perspiration that it only went to the laundry at the end of the season which, you suspect, is much the same

with Paul Pogba’s number 6 jersey. José expects him to run around occasionally, but why would you when someone plonks £290,000 in your bank account every week? Taken another way, Pogba’s form this season saw him relegated to the substitute’s bench for United’s match against Arsenal in December, and after spending 75 minutes sitting down, by the time he got up he was £2,000 better off.

Pogba, though, is horribly underpaid when it comes to an Arsenal player not even amongst the subs that evening, Mesut Ozil. This chap, in the opinion of most Arsenal fans, is the nearest thing to Gorgeous Gus in the entire Premier League, and he earns £300,000 a week.

Some of you, though, might be less surprised by what Pogba and Ozil are earning, than what some of the players lower down the Premier League’s celebrity food chain are on. Alex Pritchard of Huddersfield Town for example. Take a guess. Paid to score goals, Alex found the net once in his first 20 games for the club, for which he is being remunerated to the tune of £110,000 per week.

No wonder Mourinho looks around his dressing room for mad dogs and spots only poodles. I don’t know what England’s winning World Cup players were on in 1966 – more than a lollipop lady, but probably no more than a dentist – and that side was full of players who ran till they dropped. Alan Ball, Nobby Stiles, Martin Peters, Geoff Hurst, Roger Hunt – they were picked not just for their flair, but for their work rate. Jimmy Greaves couldn’t even get into the team because he didn’t run enough.

Oddly enough, if there is any connection between what players get paid and an absence of mad-doggism, it doesn’t seem to apply to managers. Mourinho’s salary may be the kind of cash that Pogba keeps to tip his bin-men at Christmas, but for a bloke on £6 million a year he remains passionate enough to trash a crateful of drinks bottles when his team scores a goal. As he did in a Champions’ League game in November.

And what about the equally well remunerated Jürgen Klopp? When his Liverpool team scored a late goal to win the Merseyside derby, he ran from dug-out to centre circle as though his underpants had been invaded by a colony of Martin Johnson ants. It cost him an £8,000 fine, which he’d have has been a sports paid off in the time it took him to go to bed and journalist and author since 1973, writing for get up again for work the following morning. the Leicester Mercury, Further evidence that money seems to have The Independant, The the reverse effect on managers is Alf Ramsey’s Daily Telegraph and reaction to his assistant Harold Shepherdson The Sunday Times. jumping off his seat when Geoff Hurst crashed He currently writes home England’s fourth goal to clinch the World columns for The Rugby Cup. “Shepherdson!” barked Alf. “Sit down!”

Paper and The Cricket And what was Ramsey on? In today’s money it Paper, and has a book was worth £81,000. And that’s not per week. out called ‘Can I Carry Your Bags?’

That’s per annum.

January 2019 / the activemag.com 55

55 johnson OK.indd 55

19/12/2018 14:23

56 January 2019 / theactivemag.com

56-57 wheelchair OK.indd 56

19/12/2018 10:28

ActiveSport

Squad goals International wheelchair rugby returns to Leicester in March thanks to sponsor King Power

By Chris Meadows

Images: Osborne Hollis

S

INCE ITS INVENTION in Canada in 1977 by a group of quadriplegic athletes as an alternative to wheelchair basketball, wheelchair rugby has continued to grow in popularity, helped considerably by high profile events such as the London and Rio Paralympics along with the European and world championships.

Last year saw more and more clubs popping up across the country, something the governing body was keen to promote, especially given the more challenging news of its loss of centralised funding.

The news from GB Wheelchair Rugby remains positive though, following the announcement at Leicester City Football Club in December that the King Power Quad Nations tournament will return to the city in March.

With the majority of competitive sides such as Canada and Australia being a long-haul flight away, there haven’t been many chances in the UK to go and watch our elite athletes at work, so this will be a great opportunity.

Supporters will be able to watch some of the top wheelchair rugby teams in the world on home soil. The supercharged tournament, which is described as ‘brutal’, will be bringing together three incredible days of the world’s best ‘Murderball’ teams for this intense competition. Fast paced and violent, players compete in specially designed, manual wheelchairs and must meet a minimum disability criterion, classifiable under the sport classification rules. All athletes were either born with physical disabilities, or have suffered illness which has affected their mobility, or else experienced life-changing injuries through accidents, including those serving in the armed forces.

Leicester lends itself well to host the event, especially with the Leicester Tigers Wheelchair

“Fast paced and violent, players compete in specially designed wheelchairs”

Rugby team providing a number of the current GB squad, including vice-captain Gavin Walker.

Gavin’s story, like many in the squad, is one of great courage, following a slip in his back garden eight years ago that left him wheelchairbound. Gavin is looking forward to the event, although it will have meant a restrained Christmas for him and the rest of his teammates in preparation.

The event shares further ties with Leicester, with Thai duty-free giant King Power continuing its support as title sponsors. City players Kasper Schmeichel and Shinji Okazake were on hand at the launch to offer their support too.

Great Britain will host teams from Japan,

who won the gold medal at the World Wheelchair Rugby Championships held in Sydney last summer, Canada who are currently ranked fourth in the world and France, who are ranked seventh.

David Pond, CEO of Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby, said: “We are delighted to return to Leicester for this fantastic tournament.

All teams were overwhelmed by the warmth of the welcome we received by the people of Leicester when we played the first King Power Quad Nations in the city and we are hoping for even bigger crowds this time.

“We’re also really appreciative of King Power which has come forward again to sponsor the event. Spectators will see the game at the very highest level and it’s fantastic that the world champions, Japan, will be joining us.”

Following crowds of more than 5,000 in 2018, the squad is hoping even more supporters get behind them this year. The timings of fixtures on the Friday have been scheduled especially to encourage school children to visit.

The Quad Nations takes place from Friday, March 1, to Sunday, March 3, at the Morningside Arena in Leicester. Tickets are on sale now at wrquadnations.com. There are also a number of sponsorship opportunities still available – for more information contact info@wrquadnations.com.

Wheelchair rugby: the basics > The game is played with an official IWRF ball on a hardwood basketball court marked with sidelines, baselines, mid-court line, centre circle and two key (goal) areas > The object is to carry the ball over the opposing team’s goal line to score > Each team is allowed up to 12 mixed players, but only four are allowed on the court at one time > All players are assigned one of seven

numerical sport classes, which is a measure of their functional ability. This number ranges from 0.5 (the least function) to 3.5 (the highest level of function), and is calculated in 0.5 increments. > The total value of the sport classes on court for each team must not exceed 8.0.

Teams are allowed an extra 0.5 points for each female player on court

> The game is played in four eight-minute quarters > On each possession of the ball, teams have 40 seconds to score a goal, unless there is less time than this left on the game clock > No player on the team in control of the ball may remain in the opposing team’s key area for more than 10 seconds > The player in possession of the ball must dribble or pass

the ball at least once every 10 seconds > Wheelchair rugby is a contact sport in which chair to chair contact is permitted, but physical body contact between players is not allowed.

However, players may not strike another player’s wheelchair anywhere behind the axle of the rear wheel in such a way as to cause the chair to rotate horizontally or vertically

January 2019 / theactivemag.com

56-57 wheelchair OK.indd 57

57

19/12/2018 10:28

CHALLENGES

Not every cloud has a silver lining Simon Davies tells us how he got on during his final challenge in the Ice Desert Jungle Ultra series, and sadly it didn’t go to plan

T

HIS HAS BEEN a tough article to write. Last week I failed to complete the Desert Ultra – the final race in the Ice Desert Jungle Ultra challenge. I’d completed the Ice and Jungle races, but the race in the Namib defeated me. I put everything into training and I felt strong on the start line. I’m beyond gutted to have failed.

I felt great for the first 20 miles and was enjoying the running and the incredible scenery. At check-point three I took on some fluids and instantly started vomiting. I carried on for another seven miles to check-point four, walking and jogging slowly so I could try and get some food and drink inside me. Even with the reduced effort I was throwingup even a sip of water. The medics kept me at this final check-point for a couple of hours until I stopped vomiting and managed to keep a little water down. Eventually, I managed to get back on my feet and compete the final six miles, and was confident I could recover for the next day.

I woke up on day two still unable to eat or drink. It was disheartening to be sat staring at my breakfast unable to keep any of it down and knowing I had a 55km stage ahead of me. I started with a plan to move slowly and steadily. I was confident I could get through the day without food as long as I could drink enough water. However, despite my best efforts it took me four hours to walk the first 10 miles, vomiting every time I took even a sip of water. I was determined to finish, but if you can’t drink in the desert heat things aren’t going to end well. Eventually, after speaking to the race director and medical team I took one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made; and quit.

After being withdrawn from the race I decided to stay and help the crew. I’m so glad I made that choice. I spent the rest of the week filling-up water bottles, helping the medics at check-points, and even running alongside some of the athletes for a few kilometres to keep them company at the end of each stage. It was so rewarding to see a little of what goes on behind the scenes.

In all the races I’ve done I don’t think I’ve ever seen such a close-knit group of runners and, despite my personal disappointment, it was awesome to spend the week with such a diverse range of incredible and inspiring athletes. I’ve made some lifelong friends and memories.

As soon as I withdrew I also made the decision to sign-up for next year’s race. I’m determined to finish my Ice Desert Jungle journey and I’m taking the positive that I now have extra time to continue to fund-raise for Rainbows Children’s Hospice. I’ve doubled my original target to £50,000 and I’m going to do everything I can to find out what went wrong so I can do as much as possible to ensure a better result next time.

I’d like to use this opportunity to say a heartfelt thanks once again to everyone that’s supported me during this incredible year; my team at the Training Shed, the sports science team at Loughborough University, my corporate sponsors – Training Shed, RS Components, Effect and Second Sight – and everyone else who has donated their time, energy and money to help raise an incredible £35,200 for Rainbows. Your generosity will have a huge impact on the children and families who rely upon the invaluable work that Rainbows provides for our community.

58 January 2019 / theactivemag.com

58-59 challenges OK.indd 58

19/12/2018 12:50

ActiveSport

Charlie’s charity challenges Charlie Reading has set himself two challenges this year; to run a marathon and to tackle an IronMan. And he’s roping in some work colleagues to help

The road to recovery Iain Downer plans to take part in the Blenheim Palace Triathlon in June. But first he’s got to recover from a rugby injury...

I’VE ALWAYS LOVED sport and started playing rugby at the age of seven.

Unfortunately, I have been plagued by injury over the past few years; a fractured ankle and torn ligaments in the other, a broken hand and a broken nose.

Most recently, in October, I suffered a shoulder injury while playing for Oakham. The x-ray showed no signs of fractures but subsequent scans revealed a tear to my rotator cuff, the muscles and tendons which stabilise the shoulder.

It is likely to take another six to eight weeks of physiotherapy before I will be fit to return to rugby and by that time the season will be almost over.

Not content with sitting around and moving my right arm around in circles for an hour a day, I have been looking at other challenges to keep me focused. I’ve competed in endurance events in recent years but I have always wanted to do a triathlon, and this year I’m entering the Blenheim Palace Triathlon that takes place in June, which should give me time to get over my injury.

Training will likely be an uphill struggle but will be worthwhile as completing the event will represent a milestone for me, will raise funds for a fantastic charity, Bloodwise, and will ready me for the new rugby season.

My experience in open water is limited to a few beach holidays so swimming is the discipline I will struggle with most, and need to do the most work on. But that will have to wait until my shoulder is fully recovered. So for the moment I’m cycling and running.

I’ll keep you up to date with my recovery and training over the next six months. 200 days and counting…

I AM A FIRM believer that growth is the key ingredient to life’s journey. A few years ago I attended a Tony Robbins lecture, which was an event that changed my life. Tony, who is a life coach and innovator, taught me how crucially important it is to continually challenge your current situation and to dedicate yourself to bettering your existing position. I also learnt how important it is to look after your health. So, a few years ago I vowed to change the way I ate and increase my exercise. And I’ve never looked back.

I absolutely love a challenge and thrive in a competitive environment. That’s why it was no surprise to my family and friends that I started my fitness journey by purchasing a bike and signing up to compete in a 100-mile charity bike ride from Rutland to Norfolk. Over the years I’ve done different activities and have competed in the 142-mile Dragon Ride through the Welsh mountains, completed a swim around Cornwall’s St Michael’s Mount, and took part in The Vitruvian Half Ironman.

And now, at the age of 42, I’m preparing myself for my biggest sporting year yet. I’m intending to run the Brighton Marathon, having never run one before, and complete a full IronMan in Cervia, Italy – that’s three marathons in a day; one swimming, one cycling and one running.

The Brighton Marathon is not just a personal

challenge for me, but will also be a charitable event for a few members of my team. At my company, the chartered financial planning firm Efficient Portfolio, we try to inspire a healthconscious company culture, and also advocate giving back to our community. I’m delighted that three other members of my team, Tim, Dan and Katie, are all joining me on this journey.

Efficient Portfolio’s charity next year will be the Motor Neurone Disease Association, a charity that is very close to our hearts.

However, we will also be supporting some other causes when running this marathon, with Tim (23) and Dan (26) running for the Alzheimer’s Society and Katie (25) taking part for Breast Cancer Care. Over the next few months I’ll introduce you to the team and let you know how we are getting on with training and preparation. www.efficientportfolio.co.uk

Join a marathon team In his 70th year Christopher Davies is cycling the Pyrenees, climbing the Three Peaks and running a marathon to raise £70,000 for disabled children WITH THE PYRENEES a fading memory I’m taking a pause in my training for the Three Peaks and marathon as I am having some treatment for prostate cancer.

The hormones I’m on have the unwelcome side effect of me putting on weight (nothing to do with the croissants, obviously) which will have to come off in the new year after radiotherapy. So I’m preparing myself for a six-month intensive training schedule in January.

In the meantime we are recruiting for the marathon, which is a team event, and will be run around 10 laps of Leicester Racecourse on June 22. There are already five companies, with teams of between two and 10 runners, and several individuals signed up; if you’d like to join us and get your business or a group of friends involved get in touch (call me on 0116 255 2065 or email natasha@bamboozletheatre.co.uk).

The reason we are doing this is to raise as much money as we can for disabled children. Bamboozle Theatre in Leicester offers a safe and miraculous imaginary landscape where the emphasis is not about what children can’t do, it’s about developing what they can do.

Most important though is the extra special light that comes from the children after they’ve been to a workshop – the excitement, joy and eagerness to communicate tells us all we need to know about how much they value Bamboozle.

January 2019 / theactivemag.com 59

58-59 challenges OK.indd 59

19/12/2018 12:51

RUGBY

Oakham’s struggles continue

By Jeremy Smithson-Beswick

O

AKHAM’S DIFFICULT SEASON continues to be a matter of concern for all at the Showground, with those worries having been only temporarily assuaged by a narrow 30-29 win over Bugbrooke. It was a rousing away victory against a mid-table side, having been nine points adrift with only a few minutes to go and scoring the winning try in injury time.

Alas, they then went on to lose at home to Coalville, which was particularly disappointing as they’d been set for victory with two minutes left before not one, but two tries to the opposition worsened their relegation plight.

Ex-president and club mainstay Keith Crellin told me: “It’s the defence which seems to be our Achilles’ heel. After 70 minutes we’ve been ahead in so many games before conceding tries late on. I don’t think it’s a matter of fitness but of confidence. It’s as if there’s a feeling of ‘here we go again’.”

One positive is that they are scoring freely with bonus points accruing in many recent ties and Crellin detecting encouraging signs of progress. In addition, coach Alan Meadows is confident they’ll improve.

Oakham are one place above the relegation slots but will have two key players return in January – Nick Houghton and John Mitchell – but they will have to do without winger Zak Smale until around March as he’s recently had an operation on a badly broken ankle.

With challenging games against Market Bosworth and Market Harborough to come immediately after the break, their third fixture in the new year will be crucial – it’s against fellow strugglers Vipers over whom they have a narrow three-point lead.

Market Harborough will be confident of beating Oaks at home in mid-January. Their season has been in stark contrast to their

visitors and they are currently second, four points behind leaders Olney. They defeated Coalville this month in the same manner that Oakham had lost to them – by coming from behind late on.

“They’re a good side with lots of physicality and an abrasive pack,” said Harborough’s director of rugby Richard Bowden. “But our levels of fitness are really good and we’re able to maintain a high tempo in the last quarter.”

Harborough also recently played Huntingdon and the gulf between them and Oakham was underlined by the result, a 52-12 win with tries from Harvey Slade, Milkha Basra, Chris Bale, Laurence Joel, Josh Purnell and George Lee as they raced into a 40-point lead inside the first quarter. Sponsorship chairman David Nance describing their play in that period as “rampant”.

They did suffer a setback at Long Buckby with a 17-5 defeat but will surely be there or thereabouts at the end of the season. They continue to field three senior sides each weekend and Bowden told me they’re looking for some additions to the front row at all levels, so would welcome any locals who want to give it a try.

Down one tier, Stamford Town’s run of good form continues and they’ve now won their last five and, like Harborough, are second in their table. A clean sweep in December was a great way to go into Christmas and their month was also notable for the visit of England coach Eddie Jones who came to Hambleton Road to spend time with the under 11s.

The first XV did their best to inspire the young ones too with victories over St Neots (27-7, with tries from Toby Anderson, Rees Burns, Jack Jones (2) and Martin Bagnell),

followed by Stockwood Park (36-19, Ben Murphy, Mike Kendall, Sam Hillary, Jack Jones, Rees Burns and John Murphy) and finally Biggleswade by 24-5.

Well though Market Harborough and Stamford are doing, the stand-out side from the first half of the season is Oundle. Playing in only their second season up in Midlands 1 East they are in a three-cornered fight for the title with Kettering and Paviors, with a mere two points separating the trio.

After crushing Melton Mowbray 52-13 away with eight tries, they landed another seven against Northampton Old Scouts, their first coming after only four minutes from Luke Marston in what coach Peter Croot called “a dream start”, followed by Robb Shingles and Dan Page before half time. Shingles’ second and third tries sandwiched one from Toby Snelling and scrum-half Harry Winch rounded off their 48-13 win.

Even better was to come away at fourth placed Oadby Wyggs. Croot called it “their best team performance yet” as Shingles opened the scoring after seven minutes. Oadby pulled them back but Oundle went on to dominate the rest of the half but with only a second try from Harry Winch to show for their superiority.

Croot noted that, to this point, “The game had been as intense and as fast as any witnessed at this level this season,” and 10 minutes into the second period Lewis Robinson sprinted over to extend their lead.

Will Carrington added the conversion and then a penalty to make it 10-24 but back came Oadby with a score in the corner before Chris Humphrey secured the bonus point. They then showed “ruthless resolve” to keep the home side locked out for a 29-17 win.

60 January 2019 / theactivemag.com

60-61 rugby.indd 60

19/12/2018 14:33

The Roundup Scrum-half Ben White in action for the Tigers, one of the few positives this season

Tigers talk Steve Moody hopes Geordan Murphy’s confirmation as head coach on a full-time basis will spark a revival at the club

S

O, AS WE have been advocating for a couple of months, Geordan Murphy has been given the Tigers’ coaching job full time. Being the Tigers’ board though, they couldn’t even manage to do that with any sense of timing, announcing the appointment after the worst run of defeats in living memory. At the time of writing, Leicester had fallen to eight defeats in a row, many of them heavy.

As we wrote in the last issue, late November and December could be a season-defining period for Leicester, and so it proved to be in the sense that losses home and away to Racing 92 have effectively dumped them out of Europe, while going down to Gloucester away, Saracens at home (in which they were a little unlucky) and a proper stuffing at Bristol has seen them staring at a relegation battle for the rest of the season.

Bright spots have been few and far between, although the emergence of scrum-half Ben White has been one. He seems to have quite a bit about him, not least that if trouble is occurring, he’s quite often first on the scene; reminiscent of a young Harry Ellis. Otherwise there hasn’t been much to shout about.

Quite how it could come to this is hard to fathom with the talent available, but a hint perhaps was given in some brilliantly

Carpet cleaning Upholstery cleaning Rug cleaning

eccentric and brutally honest interviews given by Ellis Genge in which the constant hiring and firing of coaches, and especially getting rid of players mid-contract, has caused huge instability, and possibly even insecurity in the club.

So the appointment of Murphy is intended to shore up that shakiness and show the players and fans that the club now has a long-term goal, rather than one dreamt up in whatever week we happen to be in.

In some ways, giving him the job at this point is counter-intuitive, in others it makes sense. It all depends on your perspective, I suppose.

“We’re working incredibly hard, day in, day out, and that’s the only way we will get better”

Speaking to Murphy, he recognises fans have been frustrated, but he said: “Nobody feels this more than myself, the coaches and the players. I hate losing more than I love winning. But we can’t wallow in it. We’re working incredibly hard, day in, day out, and that’s the only way we will get better. Just like all Tigers teams, the basic requirement is to work harder than anybody else, and only by doing that will results come.”

Part of the issue has been around defence, and for supporters who see gaps in the line it can be hard to understand how this comes about.

But flanker Guy Thompson explained the issue: “Defence is about making split-second decisions that are based on an instinct that has been drilled into you after hours and hours on the training field, and Brett Deacon, who wasn’t in charge of it at pre-season, is doing that with us now. So there are long periods in games where the defence works and then shorter ones where individual errors take place that mean we let in tries.

But it’s definitely coming together, we can feel it and I think we’ll see improvements over the next few weeks.”

Show your support for local sport Tel: 01572 503123

www.rutlandcleaning.co.uk

Email advertise@theactivemag.com January 2019 / theactivemag.com

60-61 rugby.indd 61

61

19/12/2018 14:33

// MARKET PLACE Accommodation

Builders

Agricultural Engineers

D.G NORMAN AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERS

Horticultural and Agricultural Repairs 4 BED HOLIDAY HOME TO LET IN GRETTON 5* reviews

contact@windhovers.co.uk 07568 533168

Lawnmower and Chainsaw Repairs TEL: 01536 770966 MOBILE: 07860 373465 Cottons Farm Buildings, Rockingham, Market Harborough LE16 8TF

www.dgnorman.co.uk

Cleaning

Friendship

ARE YOU READY TO MAKE NEW FRIENDS?

Peterborough and all surrounding areas 01733 286305 Stamford, Bourne and all surrounding areas 01780 429086

Then this is for YOU

Meet new people who share your interests and want to increase their circle of friends – for outings – joint activities – holidays – or just for a coffee

www.findafriendtogo.com annie@findafriendtogo.com tel: 07976 379729

To advertise on the Market Place page please call 01780 480789

Restoration

Garden Design

B Freeman

Taxi

Tel: 01162791517 Mobile: 07889 014078

• Hard and Soft Landscaping • Groundwork • Land Drainage • Turf Supplied • Top Soil and Various Aggregates

DC TAXI OAKHAM Airports, Stations, Local & Long Distance

CALL US NOW ON:

TAXI

07703 337128 or 01780 238376

Prebook your journey now

Stamford, Bourne, Oakham, Market Deeping, Spalding and surrounding areas.

Private Hire

07528121560

EMAIL: info@benfreemanuk.co.uk Find us on Facebook of visit www.benfreemanuk.co.uk

Taxi

Fox Taxi Airports Stations Local & Long Distance

01572 720 200 07884 385312

Email: foxtaxi@hotmail.co.uk

dctaxioakham@hotmail.com

Toilet Hire

Wood Supplies

WEDDINGS • PARTIES • CORPORATE

Lodge Farm

WEDDINGS• •PARTIES PARTIES• •CORPORATE CORPORATE WEDDINGS LUXURY TOILET HIRE

01858 882176

www.lodgefarmluxurytoilethire.co.uk A Luxury Loo for your Posh Do!

LodgeFarm Farm Lodge

LUXURYTOILET TOILETHIRE HIRE LUXURY 01858882176 882176 01858 Market Place S&R Template SEP18.indd 116

24/10/2018 16:33

The Roundup FOOTBALL

Daniels’ season stutters, but others in fine form

By Dean Cornish

A

LTHOUGH STAMFORD’S league campaign has faltered over recent months, and the FA Cup run didn’t really get out of the starting blocks, there had been a glimmer of hope for some sort of celebration this season with an impressive FA Trophy run that lead Graham Drury’s side to the verge of the first round proper.

Unfortunately though, that light at the end of the tunnel has been turned off this month, with Barwell from the division above winning their final qualifying round tie after a replay.

It’s not much consolation for Stamford fans that the initial game saw a famous late equaliser for Stamford from Joseph Boachie, nor that the replay was a humdinger of a match that finished 3-3. Alas, penalty heartbreak saw Stamford drop out of the competition and all but consign the Daniels’ season to ‘mediocrity’.

Maybe I’m being too harsh; Stamford are, of course, still in the league, but following defeat to Loughborough Dynamo just before Christmas, they are now 17 points off the top of the division and nine points from the play-offs.

With an excellent second half to the season the play-offs are still possible, but a distinct lack of consistency and a revolving door of players doesn’t inspire any confidence that the last four months of the season will be much better than the first four.

Last month, I was talking up the return of last season’s player of the season Henry Eze as maybe the catalyst to change Stamford’s fortunes. While his signing definitely made a difference to defence and fan morale, sadly it was only short lived with Eze becoming another player to be lured to Barwell with a big money offer just four weeks after he had re-joined the Daniels.

MADE IN THE UK

Drury does have experience of getting promotion from this level and overall he’s not done a bad job during this stint in charge.

Remember that the other season Stamford got to the FA Cup first round for the first time ever and, of course, the Daniels were only defeated in the play-off final last season in the last few minutes of extra time, but questions will need to be asked if Stamford don’t at least challenge for the play-offs this year.

They should be playing in the level above where they are now, so it’s a big four months for Drury.

In the United Counties Premier Division, Harborough Town have had a mixed period, with impressive wins over Newport Pagnell (5-1) and away at Boston Town (3-0), followed up with defeat at home to Daventry and a home draw to Rothwell Corinthians. The Newport Pagnell win saw an Aaron Preston hat-trick and a double from Tony Bartlett. The Bees are 14th in the division, with mid-table obscurity the only realistic aim.

In the UCL Division 1, Stamford-based Blackstones are fifth but remain too inconsistent to be serious title challengers. Player-manager Lee Clarke bagged a late hat-trick with two goals coming in injury time in their 3-0 win over Irchester United, before two weeks later

managing to mastermind an incredible 9-1 away win at Burton Park Wanderers. Between those two memorable wins though, they lost 3-1 at home to Melton Town. Consistency is the key now for them to finish as strongly as their talent suggests they should.

In the Peterborough League Premier Division, Stamford Lions are roaring into the new year with six straight league wins in November and December seeing James Sheehan’s side move up to sixth position with games in hand.

Hot shot Jake Showler bagged a hat-trick in the 5-2 away win at Sutton Bridge.

In the same division, Ketton have had a big change of fortune, with four straight wins pushing them up the league after an indifferent autumn period. Recent victories have included scoring six goals away at Langtoft, and an impressive 3-2 victory over Peterborough Sports.

In Division One, Uppingham Town are now second in the league. They are 11 points behind Parsons Drove, but with two games in hand it’s still possible for them to overhaul them at the top. The boys from Todd’s Piece have now won six league games on the bounce, and haven’t conceded in their last three games. Impressive stuff.

In the same division, Stamford Bels are up to seventh. Lewis Morley’s side had an impressive recent win over FC Peterborough (3-2) and confidence is high in the club, with Iain Evans’ reserve side unbeaten in three months and looking to mount a title challenge in Division 4.

“Stamford’s lack of consistency and a revolving door of players doesn’t inspire any confidence”

Triathlon Sports Apparel High performance triathlon wear and associated clothing for the multi-sport athlete

/tenolasport

TenolaSports t: 01778 487676 www.tenola.com

January 2019 / theactivemag.com 63

63 football OK.indd 63

19/12/2018 10:16

logos with rider element clipping .tif

Traditional values of care and service combined with cutting edge technology and expertise

Fellowes A4 Advert 15/11/16 17:01 1 Fellowes A4 Advert 15/11/16 17:01 PagePage 1

The equine veterinary team at Fellowes Farm, based in Cambridgeshire, includes a Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) and European Specialist in Equine Surgery, RCVS Advanced www.fellowesfarm.com Practitioners in Surgery, Medicine and Dentistry alongside multiplewww.fellowesfarm.com RCVS certificate holders.

Traditionalvalues valuesofofcare care Traditional

Whether its keeping your elite equine athlete at peak performance or caring for your well loved pet andservice servicecombined combinedwith with and we’ve got it covered.

cuttingedge edgetechnology technology cutting andexpertise expertise and

Acupuncture ● Artificial Insemination ● Scintigraphy (Bone Scanning) Being XLVets Equine practice allows us share to share Being an an XLVets Equine practice allows us to Dentistry ● Endoscopy ● Gastroscopy ● Pre Purchase Examinations experience, knowledge, ideas skills with over experience, knowledge, ideas andand skills with over 100100 equine nationwide in order to define deliver equine vetsvets nationwide in order to define andand deliver Digital Radiography ● Orthopaedic Surgery ● Laser Surgery Ultrasonography highest standards of equine health, care thethe highest standards of equine health, care andand welfare.

Our clients, therefore, benefits welfare.

Our clients, therefore, getget all all thethe benefits of of ACPAT Physiotherapist ● Shockwave ● Lameness Investigations scale access to professional expertise, along with scale andand access to professional expertise, along with independence provided private practice. thethe independence provided by by private practice.

We Visit forFREE! Free!* FREE! FREE! FREE!

your Zone DayEvery Every Week Day OnOn your Zone Day Week Day On your Zone Day Every Week Day Peterborough Market Peterborough

10

0

0 A1

Ely

1

1 1

1

Hun Huntingdon Hun Huntingdon A1 4 4 Cambridge Cambridge

A1

A1

M11

M11

Tuesdays Tuesdays

A1 RoystonRoyston

Somersham Somersham Bluntisham Bluntisham

A1

Ely

Ramsey Ramsey Forty Foot Forty Foot HolmeHolme Thurning A141 A141 Thurning A1 (M) A1 (M)

Market

10

41

A1

A1

42

Milton Milton Keynes Keynes

A1

42

A1 BedfordBedford

A1

*Terms and conditions apply please see www.fellowesfarm.com for details

Wednesdays Wednesdays

A1

)

41

gh Wellingborough gh Wellingborough Northampton Northampton

Shop Online

)

A14

A1(M

A14

A1(M

Market Market Harborough Harborough

StiltonStilton

Mondays Downham Mondays Downham

Thursdays Thursdays

A1

A1

Spalding Holbeach Spalding Holbeach Stamford 6 Stamford A1 6 A1 OakhamOakham WisbechWisbech A1

Free “Recommend to a Friend” £10* Voucher Existing clients recommend a friend and we will give you both £10 each each off your next purchase.

SaffronSaffron WaldenWalden Stevenage Stevenage

A1

Old Weston Old Weston A14

A14

Huntingdon Huntingdon Tilbrook Tilbrook CaxtonCaxton GibbetGibbet St Neots St Neots A1

A14

A1

A14

Tel: 01487 773333 Tel: 01487 773333

Abbots Ripton, Huntingdon, Cambs. PE28 2LL Email: vets@fellowesfarm.com Email: vets@fellowesfarm.com 01487 773333 vets@fellowesfarm.com

www.fellowesfarm.com

Active Mag 2017 copy.indd 1

Abbots Ripton, Huntingdon, Abbots Ripton, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire PE28 2LL Cambridgeshire PE28 2LL 22/08/2017 11:48

logos logos withw clippin clipping .ti

The Roundup EQUESTRIANISM

Indoor success at Keysoe

By Julia Dungworth

K

EYSOE EQUESTRIAN HELD its large CSI2* in the newly-revamped indoor school over the last week of November, again attracting a large number of competitors from all over the country and Europe. Many of the classes were live-streamed so that everyone could still get their equestrian fix, wherever they were.

The two main classes were the YH1* five-year-old Grand Prix which was won by Michaela Webb riding Infinity, while YH1* six-year-old was taken by Crowland-based Chloe Coward on H Blokx.

Local rider Holly Smith took the big 1.45 CSI2* Grand Prix on Rosemary Preston’s Claddagh Iroko, taking home just over £7,300 in prize money from that one class.

The competition was a huge success and Keysoe will be adding lots more dates for next season.

JumpCross has had another successful year and the eagerly awaited league tables are out.

Thirteen-year-old Lizzie Selby topped the table in the Grassroots on Maggy II, 19 points ahead of her closest rival Emma Cooper. She was followed in third place by Annabelle Pick.

Lizzie was also second in the Intro section, but couldn’t quite catch Alice Smith who took first spot – Alice also went on to win the Group 3, six points ahead of Miranda Brooman-White on Bourbon, which just goes to show that most riders must jump two rounds each time.

JumpCross is growing in popularity and the organisers will be announcing future dates very soon, take a look at the website for more details.

The Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials has announced its charity of the year for 2019 is to be the Jon Egging Trust, which was founded after the death of the Rutland-based Red

Arrows pilot Flt Lt Jon Egging. The charity has made a real difference to young people’s lives through its pioneering work. Event director Liz Inman said: “We are very grateful for the time and effort that so many charities put into their applications and are thrilled to be supporting the Jon Egging Trust this year.”

The Burghley box office will be open for members on April 25 and for all other sales the following day with the event taking place from September 5-8.

Dodson and Horrell is again hosting several Masterclasses in January; they will be compered

by Spencer Sturmey and aim to inspire and educate riders with the opportunity to meet the stars.

The first is at Arena UK, with famous father/ son show-jumping duo Michael and Jack Whitaker on January 16. The second with eventers Richard Jones and Tom McEwen will

be held at Keysoe on January 21.

Tickets are £20 and are available via their Facebook page. There will be a goody bag for all attendees and the opportunity to speak to the expert nutritionists from Dodson and Horrell.

The Melton Hunt Club ride is set to run on February 3 at Long Clawson at noon. It is the turn of the Belvoir Hunt this year and they have a new sponsor, Chestnut Horse Feeds.

The race will be a sight to behold as 50 riders race over the cream of the Belvoir’s hunting country. The race itself is about three miles long and there is little guidance bar a few turning flags to get from the start to finish.

With very undulating ground and some massive hedges in the way, watching it really is the best way to inspire you (or make you want to hang your boots up) for the rest of the season.

“The Melton Hunt Club ride will be a sight to behold as 50 riders race over the cream of the Belvoir’s hunting country”

FASTER STRONGER FURTHER LONGER January 2019 / theactivemag.com 65

65 horses OK.indd 65

19/12/2018 10:17

Active Gear 1. Tenola swimsuit

3.

Using the latest advanced fabrics from Italy, this swimsuit is ultra-chlorine resistant for 240 hours-plus, offers good breathability, excellent coverage, two-way stretch for comfort and fit, and reduces drag in the water.

PRICE £45 FROM tenola.com

2. Therm-ic heated gloves

Designed for those always fighting the cold in extreme conditions or suffering from bad circulation, these gloves offer three levels of heat provided from the ultra light and imperceptible lithium-ion batteries providing an extra boost of warmth for up to 10 hours.

PRICE £199.99 FROM tallingtonlakesproshop.com

2.

1.

3. Therm-ic heated socks

These socks come with a battery which will provide an extra boost of warmth for up to 16 hours. All managed from an easy-to-use button system located at the top of the sock, and with Bluetooth technology you can adjust the heat settings remotely using your smartphone.

PRICE £199.99 FROM tallingtonlakesproshop.com

Kit Bag January’s sporting essentials

4.

4. Muc-Off bike care kit

Cleaning your bike during the winter is essential for keeping it running smoothly and this kit combines a bike cleaner, spray, component brush and micro cell sponge for an effective clean, while the storage bag keeps everything together when not in use.

PRICE £26.99 FROM rutlandcycling.com

5. Saris Bones 2 bike rack

6.

Featuring an arc-based design that separates bikes on different levels and fits over most car spoilers, the Bones’ injection-moulded arms and legs are one of the strongest on the market.

The car rack’s rubberised feet protect your vehicle, while its coated straps protect all of your bicycles, and it weighs just 4kg.

PRICE £84.99 FROM rutlandcycling.com

6. Selkie Swimskin pants

5.

Offering extra warmth and buoyancy without the restrictions of a full length one-piece traditional wetsuit. Body hugging with super stretchy side panels and legs.

PRICE £85 FROM www.selkieswim.com

7.

7. Specialized Crosstrail hybrid

The perfect bike for every type of rider.

Combining a performance aluminium frame with fitness specific geometry and a host of reliable yet affordable components, the Crosstrail is crafted from Specialized’s own A1 premium aluminium, with smooth and responsive mechanical disc brakes.

PRICE £449.00 FROM rutlandcycling.com

66 January 2019 / theactivemag.com

66 kitbag.indd 66

19/12/2018 10:30

We invite you to join us for:

Discovery Day

10.30am-11.45am Thursday 31st January 2019

Book your place online to experience the School on a working day (for ages 3-13 only)

Open Day

09.30am-12.30pm Saturday 9th March 2019

Register online to experience the everyday magic of life at Wellingborough School (all ages)

www.wellingboroughschool.org - 01933 222427 admissions@wellingboroughschool.org Northamptonshire’s leading Independent Day School for Boys and Girls Age 3 to 18

000_ACT_JAN19_AD_WELLINGBOROUGH.indd 1

19/12/2018 13:46

e nt Fe tme d xe in T Fi ppo +VA t A 00 rs £1 Fi ‘Thank you for your unwavering support and kindness. You have been wonderful and knowing you have been behind us all the way has been a real comfort.’ Family Client

Fixed Fee Divorce Advice We understand how difficult it can be seeking legal advice when a relationship breaks down or you are considering divorce.

You may wonder what will happen to the family home or whether you will have to make or be entitled to maintenance payments. Or you may be concerned about the effect it will have on your children.

Pet erborough • St amford • Oakham We can offer help and advice to resolve financial issues and put agreements and arrangements in place.

To discuss your situation or to make an appointment call 01780 752 066 or email info@hegarty.co.uk. See more at www.hegarty.co.uk/family.

For business, for you, for life .

Active Magazine Ad Jan 2019.indd 1

Peterborough • Stamford • Oakham

06/12/2018 12:30:00