Active Magazine // Stamford & Rutland // July 2019
85 | JULY 2019
Walk the Jurassic Way Compass and map reading tuition
Sunny day shades, sunglasses for all Bikepacking advice for cyclists Meet netball aficionado Sam Griffin Benefits of real food and regular exercise
If you are considering any home improvements please contact us for advice and for a competitive quote
•7 Display Kitchens’
•Over 20 Composite Doors
•French Doors/Patio Doors/Bi-Folding Doors
•3 Working Garage Doors
•Windows and Doors in UPVC, Timber & Aluminium in Various Colours
•Sliding Sash Windows
•Rubber Covered Flat Roofing Display
•Roof Showing Fascia’s, Soffits and Guttering
•White and Coloured Cladding
•Warm Roof with Velux and LED Lighting
EDITOR’S LETTER
Editor and Publisher Mary Bremner mary@theactivemag.com
Deputy editor Kate Maxim kate@theactivemag.com
Art editor Matt Tarrant matt@theactivemag.com
Contributors Will Hetherington, Jeremy Smithson-Beswick, Julia Dungworth
Advertisement Sales Director Lisa Chauhan lisa@theactivemag.com
Production assistant Gary Curtis Accounts accounts@theactivemag.com
Active magazine, Eventus Business Centre, Sunderland Road, Northfield Industrial Estate, Market Deeping, PE6 8FD
If you have information about a club then please get in touch by emailing editor@theactivemag.com.
If you would like to stock Active magazine please email distribution@theactivemag.com. Active magazine is published monthly 12 times per year.
ISSN 2059-8513
Published by Triangle Publishing Ltd
Printed by Warner’s of Bourne www.theactivemag.com
Disclaimer
Copyright (c) Triangle Publishing Ltd (TPL) 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 TPL. Any views or opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of TPL 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, TPL 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. TPL 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.
‘Lifestyle, activity, wellbeing, health and happiness is what the magazine stands for’
WELCOME TO MY first editor’s letter. Kate, Lisa and I are delighted to be taking on the mantle of being the new owners of Active magazine and are very much looking forward to engaging with you all, hearing about what you are up to and what is happening within our very busy, active communities; do get in touch, we are a friendly bunch. We have long been stalwarts on the magazine, the three of us joining the team not long after its inception, so are very familiar with what Active stands for: lifestyle, activity, wellbeing, health and happiness.
Being active, and all it encompasses, means different things to different people. For some it’s team games, for others it’s a regular visit to the gym, or going out for a run or cycle. But for many it’s the more contemplative yoga, Pilates, walking, gardening, baking, sewing, going to the theatre or visiting a spa. Whatever it is we do, getting up off our sofas and out and about, leaving the phone behind, is the ethos of Active magazine.
This month deputy editor Kate Maxim learnt how to use a map and compass and is now so proficient she could have led Will Hetherington on the walk along the Jurassic Way that is featured this month. Our weekends have 48 hours in them, and in this issue we recommend how to fill them. You don’t have to go away to feel refreshed and invigorated; a change of scene and direction can have just the same effect. Read our article for a few recommendations that will help you meet Monday with renewed vigour.
I am a great believer of ‘use it or lose it,’ and my father, who turns 90 this month is a perfect example of this. He’s someone who has been active all his life as a keen walker, gardener and ‘doer’ who was caravanning well into his 80s, and has only recently given up his monthly excursions with his bird watching group; by being active throughout his life he has enjoyed good health up to a grand old age. Encouraging children from a young age to get outside to enjoy their surroundings, and keep fit and active will hopefully become second nature to them as they grow up.
My time away from being glued to the computer is precious. I find an early morning walk with the dog is a great time to plan the day, clear the head and listen to the skylarks, as well as getting a good blast of fresh air and exercise. And a cheery good morning from a fellow walker often sets me up for the day. Being out and about interacting with people, however slightly, often gives us a much needed boost and a more positive perspective. So feel free to greet me when I’m out. I’m usually the one walking briskly, accompanied by a dog on a mission to get into a field to run.
Enjoy the issue
Mary - Editor
Your new Active team: Kate, Mary and Lisa
ISSUE 85 / JULY 2019
ACTIVE LIFE
13 WHAT’S ON
Great local events for all the family
17 GARDENING
Create natural play areas for children
19 TRAVEL
Join the England Lionesses in Nice
20 48 HOURS OF FUN AND RELAXATION
How to enjoy your weekends to the full
24 THE FINISHING TOUCHES
Sunglasses to suit every face shape
26 WILL’S WALKS
Will tackles the whole of the Jurassic Way
35 MAP READING
Kate learns to read a map and use a compass correctly
ACTIVE BODY
41 NUTRITIONIST DAWN REVENS
Enjoy the benefits of real food and regular exercise
43 PHYSIOTHERAPY
How physiotherapy has changed over the years
ACTIVE KIDS
45 SCHOOL NEWS Pupils’ successes celebrated
ACTIVE SPORT
49 CYCLING
Bikepacking advice
54 CHALLENGES
Updates on adventurers
60 NETBALL EXPERT
Meet Sam Griffin, netball aficionado
66 KIT BAG
The latest sports equipment
Weddings • Parties • Events • Festivals • Fayres
Keeping your products fresh and cool for every occasion.
FRESH WHEELS REFRIGERATION WILL DRIVE YOUR EVENT FORWARD.
At Fresh Wheels Refrigeration we understand the challenges of delivering exceptional service at high quality events. Let us take the strain and ensure that you can store, prepare and serve food and drink at just the right temperature delighting your customers and guests.
Our modern, reliable, temperature controlled refrigeration and freezer trailers take the stress out of your event freeing you up to concentrate on those wow factors that keep customers coming back and win you new business. T:
ActiveLife
48 hours of fun | Compass and map reading lessons Gardens for kids | Explore Nice
EDITED BY MARY BREMNER
Will walks the Jurrasic way p.26
Cake For All
CAKES + CO HAVE just opened in Stamford Walk and, if you like cake, are a must to visit. They’re not just about cake, serving light lunches and brunches, savouries, tarts and pastries as well as excellent coffee and teas and fresh veg juices. They have outside courtyard seating offering extra space, and a bit of a suntrap in the nice weather. We’ll see you there! www.cakesandcostamford.com
Robbie’s Rugby Festival
LOUGHBOROUGH GRAMMAR SCHOOL will be hosting Robbie’s Rugby Festival on 27 July. This charity rugby tournament, now in its eleventh year, has already raised more than £81,000 for the Robbie Anderson Cancer Trust and The Jake McCarthy Foundation. This year two Leicester Tigers icons, Ben and Tom Youngs have been announced as Event Ambassadors.
Visitors on the day can expect to see lots of exciting rugby, fun activities for all the family and plenty of delicious food and drink followed by The Party on the Pitch, a full evening of entertainment, live music and fun.
www.robbiesrugbyfestival.com
Tania Tackles the Peak Mighty Hike
TANIA, A CARE Ambassador for Wright Care at Home, is taking on the 26.3 mile Peak Mighty Hike at the end of July to help raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support. She’s also been holding cake sales, all in memory of her father.
Rotary Disability Games Success
STAMFORD ENDOWED SCHOOLS hosted the Rotary Disability Games 2019 recently and welcomed more than 200 competitors from the region. They took part in nine disciplines including swimming, rifle shooting, kurling, table tennis and darts. Two local heroes, Rachel Williamson, Invictus Games 2018 six-time medallist and Ali Waddie four-time medallist at the 2018 Warrior Games supported and encouraged the competitors throughout the day.
Bluebird Care spreads its wings
Award winning Bluebird Care Peterborough & Rutland, based in Stamford, are launching a further care hub for their customers and team in Peterborough and Oundle
STARTED IN 2011 by couple Leisa and Tim Carey, Bluebird Care is a highly professional organisation with care at its very heart. The couple, and their team, are passionate about their work and determined to offer the best care any one of us would like to receive.
Bluebird Care offers a full and comprehensive range of individually tailored care services for any adult, couple or family who require support. They work with the customer, their families, and where necessary, other professionals such as GPs ensuring care is holistic and tailored to each customer’s individual needs and preferences. Services range from companionship, personal care and support, medication assistance, with visits starting at 30 minutes upwards, night care, right through to a full 24 hour comprehensive live-in service.
With a growing team of over 60 care professionals, supporting more than 120 customers throughout Stamford, Rutland, Peterborough and Oundle, Bluebird Care have transformed the way care and support is provided in the area achieving award winning standards. In November 2018 Bluebird Care achieved a rating of ‘Outstanding’ from the Care Quality Commission (CQC), and are the only care provider to achieve this in Peterborough,
Oundle and Stamford.
Director Leisa MacKenzie says, ‘Tim and I started Bluebird Care in Stamford nearly eight years ago, both of us donning our uniforms and delivering the care ourselves so we really know what we are doing. The role of carer is a true profession and vocation, and our team makes a positive difference to each customer. I am so proud of the dedicated, professional care team we have at Bluebird Care and the excellent feedback we receive from our customers is reward enough.
‘We are totally dedicated to meeting the values and standards of excellence daily; the satisfaction of knowing we are making a real difference to peoples lives and leading the
change in our industry is our reward. We all feel very privileged to be able to help.
‘Care at home doesn’t just mean helping people to get up, go to bed, or wash, but includes shopping, domestic help, companionship, appointments and day trips to help maintain an independent, enriched life.
‘Our care allows people the choice to remain at home, keeping their independence, and offers great peace of mind. We help people retain their dignity, keep active in their community, be discharged home from hospital and to combat loneliness, as well as in some cases, to die at home.
‘Our strength is that we make the whole process as easy and stress free as possible. We take pride that the care we provide for our customers is the best we can possibly deliver. To ensure the highest quality service, a Community Care Manager visits every customer to understand the level of care needed and wanted.
We offer bespoke packages including dementia support, stroke care, personal care, support with medication, end of life care and much more.’
Michelle Inwood, Registered Care Manager says, ‘we are so excited and delighted to be able to offer greater service to the population of Peterborough and Oundle and dedicate our growing team to the needs of people requiring care in this area. We bring the highest quality care to those in need in the area as well as providing those who wish to be care professionals, a career in care.”
To enquire about the support and care that Bluebird Care provide, or if you would like to have a rewarding career contact 01733 459907/01780 480 881 or email: peterborough@bluebirdcare.co.uk www.bluebirdcare.co.uk
Facilities available
• 50m 8 lane main pool splits into 25m pool and 2 additional pools with variable depths
• 20m 4 lane learner pool
• Fun pool with pirate ship (for under 8s)
• 63m aqua tube body ride
• Diving boards: 1m and 3m spring and 5m fixed
• 70 station gym • Studio classes
• Health suite with sauna, steam and spa pool
• Crèche • Cafe
Membership
Leisure membership and junior leisure membership available
•Swim fit
•Swimming lessons
•Surf & turf
•Deep and shallow water workouts
•Supervised diving sessions
•Disability and additional needs sessions
•Parent and toddler sessions
5 Star Google Review
‘First time there, grandchildren
What’s on...
Great things to see and do in the region
SACREWELL FARM IS hosting The Great Food and Farm Festival on July 27. This is the perfect opportunity for all foodies to connect with farmers and local artisans and celebrate everything that is home grown, and locally sourced. There will also be local arts and crafts stalls, lots of activities and fun for all. www.sacrewell.org.uk
It’s your last chance to enjoy Burghley Film Festival this year as plans are changing for 2020. The Film Festival will be held between July 24 - 28 with a line up of 20 well known films. Tickets are available now. www.burghley.co.uk or 01780 752451
The National Garden Scheme Open Gardens season is well under way. A few more gardens open this month in our area are: Stoke Albany House, open every Wednesday in July. Tresilian House near Melton Mowbray will be open on July 6 and Harborough Allotments will be showcasing their wares on the 7th. Not to be missed is the Blatherwycke Estate which will open its doors on the 21st. www.ngs.uk.org
Colette, starring Keira Knightley will be showing at Lyddington Village Hall on July 5 and a date for your diary is September 6 if you want to see Bohemian Rhapsody. Films start at 7.30pm and tickets are £5 on the door.
Would be sailors; the Nene Park Trust is hosting a taster session for adults (16+) on July 19. A session costs £25 for two hours. www.nenepark.org.uk
To mark the 50th anniversary of the first man on the moon Wistow Maze has been designed in the shape of an astronaut and opens on July 20. The huge eight acre maize maze has a fun quiz trail hidden amongst its three miles of pathways. There are lots of games and mini mazes to enjoy as well as the Wistow Rural Centre with its café, deli, garden centre, art gallery, shops and model village. www.wistow.com
No-cook
Strawberry Jam
JULY IS THE month for strawberries, juicy English ones, and whilst Wimbledon is under way everyone’s thoughts turns to them. Try this incredibly simple, quick and easy strawberry jam; there’s no cooking involved.
INGREDIENTS
250g English strawberries, hulled and quartered
300g caster sugar
Lemon juice to taste
40ml liquid pectin
METHOD
Crush the strawberries in a bowl then mix in the sugar and lemon juice. Leave for 30-40 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes.
Slowly stir in the liquid pectin and leave for 5 minutes. Then pour the jam into a jar and leave overnight in the fridge to set.
Serve with scones; the perfect afternoon tea.
Tartiflette
WHILST THE ENGLISH Lionesses are battling it out in France at the World Cup I hope they get the chance to sample this delicious French classic. A French dish that originated from the Alps, it’s the ultimate comfort food and absolutely delicious. There are lots of different versions, here’s mine.
INGREDIENTS
1kg new potatoes, unpeeled
250g bacon lardons
1 pack shallots
1 garlic clove
Tub crème fraiche
Salt and pepper
Whole Reblochon cheese
METHOD
Wash and cut the potatoes into quarters. Boil for 5-10 minutes until tender, drain and set aside.
Fry the bacon, shallots and garlic until a light golden brown. Then stir in the potatoes, followed by the crème fraiche.
Season to taste. Pour into an ovenproof dish. Layer the Reblochon cheese on top, thickly, and bake in an oven at 200 degrees until the cheese is golden brown and bubbling, for about 20 minutes.
Serve with a green salad
FOOD
be inspired...
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
Uppingham School Sports Centre, Leicester Road, Uppingham, Rutland, LE15 9SE
GARDENING
It’s Child’s Play!
Garden designer Teresa Kennedy suggests simple ways to create a natural play area in your garden, offering hours of fun and adventures
CREATING GARDENS THAT become part of your day to day living space is often about simple, effective design and nothing could be truer when planning how to entertain children outside. These ideas will appeal to any child, of any age, and be in harmony with your natural space rather than in contrast to it. This is the alternative to shop-bought, age-specific equipment, you don’t need to do too much, keep it simple.
Grassy mounds – shaped to lie on, clamber over, roll down. They don’t need to be big, (I have two in my garden which are about half a metre tall, but try and make them wide. Shape natural seats. Leave the grass to grow long as it creates play opportunities for miniature worlds and allows daisies to grow; hours of fun! Any earth from previous levelling or surplus soil and hardcore can be used to create mounds of earth.
Tunnels, arches, tepees – work with hazel or willow which are perfect to push into the ground to create a shape. If you’ve not worked with these before they are light,
NATURE
The Hobby
THE HOBBY IS a falcon, and a summer visitor to Britain, spending the winter in central and southern Africa. Hobbies arrive from late April and are usually seen at Rutland Water and Eyebrook Reservoir, where they feed over the water on dragonflies and other insects. At this time of year, and earlier in May, several can be seen acrobatically hawking insects together, especially at dawn and dusk.
No nest is built, the birds take over empty carrion crow’s ones when their young have
flexible, long and ideal for making simple structures in the garden. Secure in place with string if needed. There is a local hazel wood on the outskirts of Corby where you can buy bundles.
Hidden obstacle route – Wood balancers, stepping logs, raised plank walkway; all fit brilliantly at the back of big borders, hidden and much more fun! Mulch underneath to preserve the moisture in the bed. The bigger the garden, the bigger the course.
Raised tree platform – even a small elevation from the ground has the desired effect of being ‘up high’. Go higher for older children, with a rope ladder to reach for. The simpler they are, the more creatively children will use them. They will make shelves on branches, hang things from sticks
fledged. Two or three eggs are laid in late June. The young hatch a month later and fledge at the end of August. They are then very noisy, and often the only sign that breeding in an area has been successful. During the summer adults often visit the Egleton reserve to hunt swallows, swifts and sand martins which breed there. The birds remain over the reservoirs until mid-September and by early October have left on their autumn migration south.
Hobbies are striking birds, often likened to kestrel sized wifts with long, narrow dak grey wings - and back - and white, dark streaked underparts. A good view will reveal the white neck with a black moustachial stripe and reddish thighs.
Terry Mitcham
and make seats from cushions leant against the trunk.
Miniature gardens – create places to build with mud and stone, and plant miniature gardens with cuttings from the garden, plus a place for making spells, potions and mud pies. Old cups and yoghurt pots tend to come in handy.
Now is the perfect time to try some of these as the summer holidays are just around the corner.
But of course, do think of the obvious dangers such as tripping or falling, and remember logs can become slippery, so tack some chicken wire to the tops to give a bit of grip.
www.viridisdesign.co.uk 07726 334501
All our windows are manufactured to BSI to your own specific requirements giving you a choice of profile, colour, style, size and beading to perfectly match and compliment your property.
The Classic Range of front and back doors, french doors, in-line patio doors and bi-fold doors ensures that total symmetry with the windows is achieved.
Follow the Lionesses, but stop awhile to enjoy Nice in all its glory
THE LADIES FOOTBALL World Cup is being held at the moment, and the host nation is France; so a very easy hop across the channel to see our Lionesses in action. And hopefully they will do well as they came third in the 2015 championships and are full of confidence, and ability.
Nine stadiums have been chosen throughout the country including Lyon, Nice and Montpellier with the final being held at the Parc des Princes in Paris. Whilst in Nice I would suggest you stay awhile.
Nice, on the French Riviera, is the quintessential city of the South of France. Beautiful and elegant, the city oozes French glamour and chic. The Promenade des Anglais is a wide pedestrianised thoroughfare that lends itself to a relaxing stroll alongside the beach and stretches 7km in total from one end of the city to the other. And
do pop down to enjoy some of the beach bars and restaurants which are not as expensive as you think. An early evening glass of the local Provence rosé whilst watching the world is a moment to savour.
The flower market in the old part of Nice, Le Marche aux Fleurs, is a must. It’s held daily from Tuesday to Saturday from 6am to 5.30pm. The pretty striped awnings shade hundreds of beautiful blooms whose fragrances will enchant you. And whilst you’re at the market do explore The Old Town with its beautiful buildings, abundant cafes and delicious Italian ice cream and, of course, you must try the great classic of Nice, the Salade niçoise.
www.easyjet.com
www.eurotunnel.com
48 Hours of Fun
How to fill your weekend to the brim, and there’s no time for washing the car
Canoeing from Oundle Wharf with Nene Extreme adventures
THE WEEKEND:
48 hours for us to fill as we wish, longer if you consider Friday evening as well. But it’s very easy to spend all your time fiddling about doing very little, or household chores, or slumped in front of a box set so that when Monday morning comes around you feel as though you’ve achieved very little, and not had much fun either. You don’t need to pack your bags and go away to enjoy a break. There’s plenty to do locally, and much of it you can do with friends so you get a double whammy; socialising and having an invigorating time as well, feeling refreshed and ready for the week ahead after a weekend of fun.
Rutland Sailing School at Edith Weston on Rutland Water specialises in dinghys and catamarans. The professionally trained staff offer everything from introductory sessions to personal lessons in your own boat, for both children and adults. If you know what you are doing you are also able to hire a boat, along with all equipment necessary, including wetsuits and buoyancy aids. Facilities are shared with the Rutland Sailing Club so there is a friendly clubhouse, and everyone is welcome.
www.rutlandsailingschool.co.uk
“We are spoilt in our area with so many cycle paths to follow”
Everybody’s favourite, cycling. You don’t have to don lycra to ride a bike, but feel free to do so if you wish. The wind in your hair, out in the fresh air, moving under your own steam at a pace when you can enjoy your surroundings; cycling at it’s best. We are spoilt in our area with so many cycle paths to follow, away from the traffic and pollution. Riding around Rutland Water on a designated track is one of life’s pleasures, and stopping off for a bite to eat with a view over the reservoir is hard to beat. If you don’t own a bike don’t worry, Rutland Cycling have two stores, one on the north, the other on the south shore where you can hire bikes, including kids’ bikes, tandems or even an electric bike.
www.rutlandcycling.com
If you fancy cycling the 17 mile long Brampton Valley Way and Grand Union Canal heading out of Market Harborough there are plenty of places to stop and enjoy the view, or take in a pit stop whilst watching the canal boats sail past. One local bike shop within striking distance is George Hall Cycles www.georgehallscycles.co.uk and Julie’s Cycles is not too far away. www.juliescycles.co.uk
Talking of canals, what about hiring a canal boat and attempting to navigate Foxton Locks yourself? You can hire a boat for the day with www.foxtonboats.co.uk or if that sounds a bit scary they offer boat trips as well. While you’re there sit in the beer garden at the Bridge 61 pub and enjoy the scene.
While still on the water Nene Extreme Adventures offer all sorts of exciting treats for adults and children; canoeing and kayaking as well as climbing trips, parties and holidays. Boats are available for hire from their Oundle Wharf base. You can hire one for an hour, a day, or even longer. www.neneextreme.co.uk
If faster paced watersports are more your style, Tallington Lakes has water skiing, wakeboarding and jet ski hire along with more sedate windsurfing and dinghy sailing. And, of course, you could always try the dry ski slopes. www.tallington.com
Get ready to Rumble and release your inner Rambo. A new live-action gaming experience has just opened at Graffham Water and offers hours of fun. Suitable for ages eight to eighty it’s the perfect outing for groups of friends or families. Rumble is a one hour immersive gaming experience where you use laser-sharp guns and sensors to score points, but don’t worry it doesn’t hurt and you don’t need any protective clothing. It’s clever combining the virtual world with the real one, including woods, hides and bases along with air strikes and weapon upgrades. Players can work in a team but sometimes it’s each person for themself – you have been warned… www.rumblelive.co.uk
After a day of energetic fun, thoughts turn to the more cerebral, calm and tranquil for the next 24 hours.
A visit to the theatre can be entertaining, stimulating, educational and often amusing. Kilworth House Theatre is presenting a new and exciting production of Cats. Based on T S Elliot’s Old Possum’s Books of Practical Cats, and
“A visit to the theatre can be entertaining, stimulating, educational and often amusing”
set to music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, Cats is running from July 23 to September 8.
Built in a beautiful wooded area close to the lake in the grounds of Kilworth House Hotel the open air theatre is protected by sail-like canopies so if the weather isn’t kind, it won’t matter. Guests are encouraged to enjoy a picnic in the grounds before the show, or dine in the Victorian Orangery. And why not make a night of it by staying in one of the hotel’s gorgeous rooms. www.kilworthhousetheatre.co.uk
Another open air theatre to consider is Tolethorpe. The renowned Stamford Shakespeare Company is performing Twelfth Night, Julius Caesar and Noel Coward’s Blithe Spirit this season. www.stamfordshakespeare.co.uk
For the more creative try your hand at working with clay. The Paint Pottle in Market Harborough host Have-a-go Wheel Throwing experiences. You get two hours of guided tuition to throw a small pot which will then be fired and glazed for you. Vouchers are available for this experience. If the wheel throwing inspires you join The Paint Pottle Clay Club which meets weekly. www.thepaintpottle.co.uk
The Wicked Wick, based in Stamford is offering candle or soap making courses, or you can do them both. You will learn how to make candles or soap as well as create your own signature fragrance. For more information email thewickedwick@outlook.com
So there you have it, 48 hours filled to the brim. And we haven’t even mentioned a trip in a hot air balloon, horse riding, clay shooting, yoga retreats, cookery courses, spa days, arts and craft courses, antique hunting, dog agility, the list goes on. You name it, you can find it going on in our area. But sadly, we’ll have to keep all that for another weekend…
We’ve
all been hair
Kate Maxim gets to grips with the science of colouring your hair
YOU KNOW THAT scene in Fleabag when she storms in to see her hairdresser Anthony and he tells her, ‘hair isn’t everything.’ After the palpable gasp has finished echoing around the salon she says: ‘Hair is everything. We wish it wasn’t so we could actually think about something else occasionally. But it is. It’s the difference between a good day and a bad day. We’re meant to think that it’s a symbol of power, a symbol of fertility. Some people are exploited for it and it pays your bills. Hair is everything Anthony.’ Well, I wouldn’t go quite that far. But it can certainly affect your mood in the morning when you wake up and find it’s just too far gone: it’s been ages since your last hair cut; it’s fallen completely out of shape and the colour seems to have drained off onto the pillow. I’m probably the worst kind of client as I don’t make regular appointments, I phone up at the last minute and ask my very accommodating hairdresser Nikki from Good Hair Days to fit me in. And bless her, she does her best every time.
The problem when you’re born blonde and gradually go darker – as is the case for many of us – is you’re always chasing the blonde. I first used peroxide on my hair when I was 14, then had very blonde full head highlights throughout my twenties and thirties. Gradually, as I became more time and cash poor, I went for a much more ‘natural’ look, and that’s how it’s stayed. At the moment I have two colours: a dual purpose lightener and an 8.0 natural colour which is essentially a mix of two different strengths of peroxide: one at 9% and one at 6%. The science of it always baffles me and the colour is even meticulously measured out using scales.
The key is to build up and maintain a good, long standing relationship with your
hairdresser. They should advise you on what suits your colouring and style, because it can change over time. Nikki offers a free consultation service and says it’s important to treat everyone individually. The same base colour can look completely different on two people. It depends on your canvas (your hair) and the hairdresser’s palette (the paint pot). Also you should have a patch test a few days before your appointment if you’re having an on-scalp treatment with a new hairdresser, or trying a new brand.
Nikki recommends having an Olaplex treatment which is an in-colour treatment that stops the hair breaking down during the colouring process. We are talking about putting chemicals on your hair after all. It’s
also very relaxing as you have to lie on the reclining chair for just that bit longer to let it sink in.
I decided on a ratio of two lighteners to one colour as it’s summer time so, in theory, I should be more naturally sun kissed. More people opt to go lighter than darker as it gives you more of a lift and, as you get older, it’s a good way of hiding the grey. I haven’t quite got there yet, but when I do, no doubt I’ll start to book more regular appointments. I’m sure Nikki will be pleased if I do!
For a free consultation with Nikki Thorpe of Good Hair Days phone 01780 238280/ 01572 823370 or visit
www.goodhairdayseveryday.co.uk
FASHION
Sunny Day Shades
The shape of your sunglasses can transform your face, get it wrong at your peril
IAM WRITING this having endured our fifth day of heavy rain, so sunglasses don’t really seem relevant. But ever the optimist, surely the sun must reappear soon, and then we will need sunglasses. Flaming June turned out to be a damp squib, hopefully July will be kinder, particularly when you think back to last summer when we were enjoying such wonderful temperatures; maybe it was foolish to expect the same this year.
Anyway, back to sunglasses. One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to sunnies. A style that suits your face shape can transform you, but get it wrong and the glasses could do the opposite. They can swamp you if too
large, and think about cheekbones. I often find that sunglasses catch my cheekbones, particularly when I smile. And consider the weight of a pair; some are so heavy they can slip down a small nose.
First of all pick your frame. Choose the frame that suits your face shape, don’t follow trends here. Consider your nose and brow bone. Sunglasses are not a purchase to make online. Go to the shop, preferably taking someone with you for a second opinion, and try on lots of pairs until you find the perfect one. Make sure you buy a good quality pair. The aim of sunglasses is to protect your eyes from UV rays, so make sure they do this.
Consider your skin tone. Black glasses and lenses can be very harsh and severe, tortoiseshell is usually more forgiving and will match everything you wear. If you are prone to redness avoid red frames, try greens and blues instead. Take a hair bobble so you can tie your hair back. Don’t pick a pair that hides your eyebrows as this can make your face look much longer. The ideal pair will sit just above, or on, the brow bone.
And don’t stop at one pair. Different styles suit different outfits; sporty won’t look right with formal wear and - of course - you may lose a pair, or sit on them, so it’s always good to have a back up.
www.marksandspencer.com
Good for oval and heart shaped faces
Henrietta £120
Good for pear shaped faces
round faces
faces
WILL’S WALK
The Jurassic Way
This beautiful 88-mile route has a terminus in Stamford so it was too tempting to resist for Will Hetherington and friends. But it was more of a challenge than they expected…
Images: Will Hetherington
Mention the Jurassic Way to most people and they usually make a lame joke about dinosaurs and Richard Attenborough, or assume it’s a reference to Dorset’s famous coastline. Both understandable but it’s actually a little closer to home and refers to the 88-mile path which connects Banbury in north Oxfordshire to Stamford.
When I was out on duty for this magazine in September 2017 I discovered a plaque on Honey Hill (just south of the A14 between Elkington and Cold Ashby) commemorating the opening of the Jurassic Way on September 19, 1994. The way is reasonably well marked by a distinctive fossil logo (kallirhynchia sharpi) on a black and white disc and supposedly has its origins in an ancient trading route.
It was opened by three members of Northamptonshire County Council and largely follows the limestone ridge through that county apart from starting in Oxfordshire and brief encounters with Leicestershire, Rutland and Lincolnshire in the north.
Stamford or bust…
Once I realised this long distance path has a terminus in my home town of Stamford I couldn’t shake the idea of walking it, but it’s not a well travelled path and I couldn’t find many (or any) people who had walked it. Having walked 530 miles across northern Spain on the Camino de Santiago last year I wasn’t deterred by the distance, but it was hard to get an idea of reasonable stage lengths. There is a fairly detailed guide (produced by Northants County Council in 1994) available online but other than that there is scant information.
However, I mentioned it to a few friends with whom I had done the Yorkshire Three Peaks last September and everybody seemed keen, so I suggested we give it a go over the late May Bank Holiday this year. If we could do it over four days it would mean only one day off work. Originally I thought about doing it over three days – thinking 30 miles a day didn’t seem impossible. As you will see it’s a good job I didn’t persevere with that plan.
Anyway I settled on four days and booked accommodation for us in Staverton on the edge of Daventry, Market Harborough just off the route and Rockingham Forest. In theory this would mean days of 22, 28, 17 and 24 miles respectively (including minor detours to find accommodation).
DAY ONE - 22 miles
Banbury to Staverton
I asked two kind people to drive us the 68 miles to Banbury on the Friday morning and we left Stamford at 6am to arrive at the start
point on Banbury lock at 7.40am. There is something undeniably peculiar about driving less than two hours to start a walk back to where you came from which will take four days.
We couldn’t see a marker at the beginning of the Way but the weather was kind so we set off south down the Oxford Canal. Regular walkers will know the hardest part is often finding the start, so I was relieved to see the first fossil sign within 100 yards of the lock, but I was slightly surprised when some members of the group ploughed on at some pace leaving me way behind. Long distance walks like this are not a race, and I thought they must realise we were heading south and would have to turn east at some point. But they missed the left turn (admittedly it wasn’t marked) to head east and under the M40. So within half an hour of starting I was already calling ahead to tell them to turn around.
However, good spirits prevailed and we soon got through Little Warkworth and skirted behind Overthorpe. There were seven of us on Day One and at 41 I was the youngest. I had no doubts about any of their fitness or determination, but obviously it’s interesting to see how the formation develops. We discovered everybody splits up and talks to each other in twos and threes, but the combinations change regularly after stiles, refreshment breaks, and any other stoppages.
Late May is a glorious time to be out in the English countryside with many wildflowers in bloom, most of the trees in magnificent leaf, crops growing fast and lambs and calves providing even further examples of new life in every other field. I knew from the start I wouldn’t be taking my two labradors. Firstly it’s too far for the older one, secondly livestock makes it awkward, thirdly accommodation is a problem, and finally I had enough to worry about.
After Overthorpe we encountered a surprisingly steep hill to approach Middleton Cheney and, after crossing the bypass on a bridge, soon found ourselves at a convenient coffee and cake shop next to a little supermarket in the middle of the
“There is something undeniably peculiar about driving less than two hours to start a walk back to where you came from which will take four days. ”
village. After a 5am wake up in Stamford that coffee sat on a wall at 10am was verging on essential. It’s so important to stop together every now and again to have a rest, take the shoes and socks off, eat something and just take stock. On a long distance walk like this it’s too easy to pass through village after village so fast that they all blur into one. Occasional stops really help to provide some punctuation points in the memory when the job is done.
Shades of Jane Austen
Following the caffeine boost we cracked on and passed through idyllic little Chacombe and then Wardington. When we were moving we were doing a decent three miles an hour and we covered good ground as we passed the rather stunning 18th century Edgcote House with its nine bay front, pretty church and tranquil surroundings. We felt like we had dipped into a scene from Pride and Prejudice for a few minutes at this first day highlight.
After Edgcote it’s a gentle climb to Chipping Warden where we took a half hour break to eat sandwiches and rest the feet. We had walked 11 miles and all felt pretty confident so the next stage to remote West Farndon was not a problem, although some more serious hills probably started to take their toll on the legs as we then walked into the next settlement. If Edgcote felt like something from Jane Austen then it was a bit of a surprise to discover Woodford Halse is more reminiscent of Royston Vasey from The League of Gentlemen. It’s a community which developed around the railway and it sticks out like a sore thumb amid the series of other beautiful villages in the area. But it does have a shop so we were able to buy more water which was necessary.
Tiring legs took us north past eerie Church Charwelton, which was abandoned hundreds of years ago but has piles of ancient charm. Then Charwelton passed in a blur before a series of undulations brought us to the warming sight of the Red Lion pub nestled into the dip at Hellidon. A pint of shandy and a look at the map suggested our
Banbury
THE ROUTE 91 miles (including minor detours to accommodation)
Market Harborough
“A pint of shandy and a look at the map suggested our day was nearly done, but we overlooked the contour lines between this little honeypot and Staverton, our final destination.”
day was nearly done, but we overlooked the contour lines between this little honeypot and Staverton, our final destination. It was a tough but really quite stunning end to Day One, passing Catesby viaduct, and we reached our accommodation at striking Staverton Hall B&B at 5.45pm, 10 hours after departure. A hearty dinner in the Countryman Pub helped to replace some of the day’s expended calories and bed beckoned before 10pm for us all
DAY TWO - 28 miles
Staverton to East Farndon
After breakfast with a stunning view to the west we set off at 8.15am. The first stretch to Braunston is a good farm lane and three and a half miles go quickly before reaching the picturesque Grand Union Canal on the edge of the village. There are some good shops here which are handy for buying lunch, water and the essential sweets.
From Braunston the path heads east for a couple of miles to Ashby St. Ledgers, which is one of the most perfect villages you are likely to see. It’s packed with thatched cottages and every lawn, tree, shrub and house is immaculate. In a jolting juxtaposition of ancient and modern, within a mile or so of leaving the village you will go under the London to Birmingham railway, across the A5 and under the M1. And if that’s not enough the Jurassic Way also briefly marches with the Watford Locks on the
Stamford
Corby
Grand Junction Canal.
Passing all these transport links certainly makes it feel like one of the thresholds on this walk, and there’s a wonderful sense of slow motion for the walker watching so many other people rushing from A to B.
After the village of Watford we briefly lost the path and then walked into the farm at Silsworth Lodge without realising the Way has been re-directed here. So we lost a bit of time and used some valuable energy as the late May sunshine started to increase the temperature.
Eventually we reached West Haddon, a good sized village with a well stocked village shop, and we found a shaded place in a field beyond the church to sit and rest at 1.20pm. I was starting to realise how much further we had to go, and I knew daylight was on our side but I could see it was unlikely we were going to make our 7.30pm table reservation at an Indian restaurant in Market Harborough. So I made my first call to delay the table.
The toughest time
This was the start of the toughest period of the whole four days. It was warmer than we realised and the heat certainly took its toll, but the truth is that 28 miles in a day was always too ambitious. When we left West Haddon at 1.50pm we still had more than 15 miles to walk and we had already done 13 miles that day. Morale could have dipped even further when I missed a left turn on the approach to Honey Hill, the highest point of the walk at 210 metres. After some discussion we decided to retrace our steps down the hill to find the right path across Cold Ashby golf course, and up to the hill which bears the Jurassic Way plaque. Perhaps the others didn’t realise how far we still had to go but thankfully they didn’t seem too dispirited. But a mile long stretch along the Grand Union Canal between Elkington and the Hemplow Hills was less pleasant than I imagined. There’s something a little spirit crushing about a towpath. The view never really changes and fatigue seems to give the canal water a menacing quality.
The Hemplow Hills is one of the prettiest spots on the whole Jurassic Way and there’s a convenient (if wobbly) picnic bench in a grassy meadow on the north side of the hill where we stopped at about 5pm. From here
Daventry
www.leicscountryparks.org.uk
/leicscountryparks
Serving Cambs, Lincs and Rutland
Walkrite incorporates the best clinical care and technology to alleviate painful foot and ankle conditions of all descriptions. Expert clinical knowledge and the latest techniques are combined to alleviate your symptoms and get you on the move again.
You should definitely take five if not six days. If you are thinking of doing the Banbury to Stamford direction (which works with the prevailing westerly wind) you could follow this accommodation plan to ensure you don’t have any days of more than 20 miles: first night: The Red Lion at Hellidon, second night: West Haddon, third night: The George at Great Oxendon, fourth night: Rockingham.
We carried our spare clothing for the whole walk and found shops for supplies along the way at: Middleton Cheney, Woodford Halse, Braunston, West Haddon, Welford, Market Harborough, Fineshade Top Lodge and Easton on the Hill.
It was late May and we knew it was dry underfoot so we all walked in trail or walking shoes from the likes of The North Face, Salomon and Mammut. And we all carried a waterproof jacket.
To cover the whole route you need six OS maps and you can download the OS maps on to your phone too so you can determine your position in relation to the map should you get lost.
Make sure you do some training on hills and long walks beforehand to know your legs and footwear won’t let you down.
we had a very long (eight mile) trudge through Welford and Sibbertoft to East Farndon. In fact the last stretch from Sibbertoft to East Farndon is almost four miles. As the clock ticked I called twice more to delay the curry and reconsidered the original plan to walk the two miles into Market Harborough (a slight detour from the Jurassic Way in order to get to the Angel Hotel). I managed to order a minibus to collect an exhausted group from the church at the top of the hill in East Farndon when we arrived at 8.15pm. Twelve hours of walking almost 30 miles was far more than would have been sensible and made me realise the Jurassic Way is most definitely a five or six day walk. In fairness to the team they didn’t complain much and maintained impressive high spirits as we trudged through the evening. And the cold pint of Cobra and curry that night were both as good as it gets.
DAY THREE - 17 miles
East Farndon to Rockingham
After a good night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast in the Angel Hotel we started off in steady rain from East Farndon at 10am on Sunday. Apart from the inconvenience of putting our hoods up, which makes conversation more difficult, I don’t think anybody was remotely concerned. After the energy sapping heat of the previous day it was a welcome relief, but it soon cleared up and we didn’t see any more rain that day. The route goes through Great Oxendon and over the hill to Braybrooke, where the
diminutive River Jordan gives England rugby fans a terribly cheesy photo opportunity.
From Braybrooke the route continues in conjunction with the Macmillan Way underneath the railway line and past Park Hill Farm and The Hermitage before a long and hilly stretch to Stoke Albany. Even on a reasonably well-marked route like this it’s very important to concentrate on navigation, as we discovered again here when we headed off down the wrong path. On this occasion instead of retracing we decided to take a shortcut over a ditch and one of the group ended up in the water. Wet socks then led to blisters and ultimately he had to miss the last day so the moral of the story was: “It’s better to retrace your steps than try and cut the corner.”
Aiming for the castle
After Stoke Albany the Jurassic Way sticks to the north facing side of the escarpment through Wilbarston, East Carlton and Middleton. We passed quickly through these villages and then the path takes a turn to the north and approaches the hilltop hamlet of Bringhurst. This ridiculously pretty little place might only be 90 metres above sea level, but it’s a steep climb and the views are a fine reward, with Nevill Holt to the west and Rockingham Castle to the south.
From Bringhurst it’s less than a mile to Great Easton where we found the pub closed for refurbishment which could have been a serious blow on a warm Sunday afternoon, but we knew the Sondes Arms in
Rockingham was only a mile across the Welland valley. In fact the Jurassic Way pretty much enters the beer garden and we were happy to take this as a sign we should rest the weary legs and take on some cold refreshments.
That night we were staying at the Best Western Rockingham Forest at the top of the very steep hill in Rockingham. We walked up the hill once and I’m very pleased to report a couple of very good value taxis ferried us back down the hill for dinner in the Sondes Arms and then returned us to our beds to get some rest before the final day.
DAY FOUR - 24 miles
Rockingham to Stamford
The path from Rockingham to Gretton along the escarpment and then from Gretton past Harringworth Lodge over the top to the Welland valley is one of the most peaceful and enjoyable sections of the whole walk. And I don’t write that lightly because the Jurassic Way is full of glorious stretches, but there is something innately calming about these six miles. There’s a steep hill on the way into Gretton, and the path goes through some lovely woodland as it heads east to Harringworth Lodge before it turns north
and drops down to Shotley and the Welland Valley. On this pleasant descent the grand view of the valley and the magnificent viaduct within gradually unfurls.
Barrowden could be the most attractive of all the villages we passed (although Ashby St Ledgers would be hard to beat) and it’s always a pleasure to take a rest down by the duck pond in this Rutland gem. It’s from here that the Jurassic Way takes one of its strangest detours to head south to Wakerley and then Fineshade before it heads north again to Duddington. You will find a well-stocked café at Fineshade Top Lodge but I think this is an unnecessary extension to the walk. There’s a very pleasant path which heads east from Barrowden to Tixover, and I would advise anyone considering the Jurassic Way to skip the Wakerley/Fineshade section and take the obvious route instead. Yes you will miss Duddington but it’s a small price to pay.
After Duddington you accompany the River Welland under the busy A47 and then walk into Ketton via Tixover Grange and head up the hill to Easton. You might want to stop at the Blue Bell for a drink before the final two miles but we were keen to get the job done so headed on down on to Stamford
“ The walk goes through the very heart of England and even now in 2019 these ancient towers and spires dominate the rural landscape.”
Meadows and over the Welland one final time before finishing at Bath Row. As in Banbury there is nothing to mark the terminus of the Jurassic Way which is a little disappointing, but trust me we knew we’d done the miles…
England at its finest
There are many points on the Jurassic Way where it’s possible to stop for a moment and survey the churches on the horizon. The walk goes through the very heart of England and even now in 2019 these ancient towers and spires dominate the rural landscape. Of course there are modern additions, like wind turbines, cement works, motorways, railway lines and new housing estates, but this walk showcases everything rural England is famous for; green fields, ancient woodland, beautiful stone houses with impossibly idyllic thatched roofs, and the odd strategically placed watering hole.
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
Clear Ridge Veterinary Surgery has always had a great interest in Cats and the Cat owner’s world, and feline medicine in particular.
We welcome all ages of cat from the tiniest, to the more revered and ancient.
Simple Boosters to Renal Failure and Complex Internal Medicine cases, to Involved Operations.
Heart and Chest Problems to Abdominal Surgery, to Feline Fracture Repair.
We want to get them all back to treating their owners like servants again. For more information or to discuss any
please call and speak to any of the Clear Ridge Team at our Stamford practice: Tel 01780 764333 or Orton Wistow Tel: 01733 230000
Orthopaedic Service
Lameness Assessments
X-Ray
+Ultrasound
Assessment
Fracture Fixations
Treatment/Surgery for Traumatic Injuries/ Wounds
Cruciate Ligament Disease/Injury
Stabilisation
Meniscal(Cartilage) Assessment. Patellar Luxation(Dislocation) Surgery
Tendon Injury Repairs
BVA Hip Scheme and Elbow Scheme
Radiography
Map it out
Kate Maxim learns how to navigate her way around the county using a map and compass
THE SAYING, ‘YOU never fully explore your own backyard’ is so true. If I were to chart my journeys on a map, I’d draw deep repeated grooves from home to work, to the supermarket, and daily, functional walks with my dogs. Then there would be the odd journey to visit friends, the cinema or to the pub. But what about the vast tracts of countryside I never step foot in as I whizz by en route?
When you have dogs, it’s often easier to walk on paths you’re familiar with as you know where they’re welcome, what livestock is about, and where the streams are they can dip into along the way. And if, like I often do, you walk with friends and their dogs, you don’t want to have to concentrate too hard on where you’re walking, leaving you free to chat.
Will Hetherington, who writes our extremely popular Will’s Walks, is much more intrepid than that. He likes nothing more than getting his local OS map out and planning a new route. He’s criss-crossed Rutland and Leicestershire from east to west, north to south, and back again on numerous occasions. And we all benefit from it with a huge back catalogue of Will’s Walks to choose from. All we need to do is decide on the distance we fancy, the level of difficulty, pick one of his walks then follow his clear instructions.
However, when Emma Martin from First 4 Adventure UK suggested I go on one of her navigation days I jumped at the chance. As well as running Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expeditions and residentials, Emma, and business
partner Andy, take adults on adventures all over the UK and abroad, to give them a taste of the great outdoors. I joined her on one of her navigation days in Rutland, which would teach me how to properly plan a route, and be able to pinpoint where I was to the exact hedge or gate post. One thing that’s always worried me is straying off an unfamiliar footpath onto farmers’ land and ruining crops. Not any more.
Plot your route
My friend Grey and I, met up with Emma in Knossington, to the west of Oakham; fully kitted out with a laminated map, Silva compass, picnic and waterproofs, as instructed. The first thing Emma did was to remove the covers on our maps and leave them in the car, making it easier to fold them. Who knew life could be so simple? Our first lesson was to make a plan of our route. Deciding on the distance you want to walk is important - you can measure that by using your compass and grids on the map. Then you plot your route on the network of footpaths, bridleways and permissive paths, using a permanent marker so you can easily see where you are on the map as you go along. Top tip: nail varnish remover gets rid of the pen marks once you’re finished; although it has to be a laminated map.
The next lesson was how to orientate the map. The top of the map always points north so we learnt to align that with the north needle on the compass, and to turn the map accordingly, depending on what direction we wanted to face. We started off the morning doing a convoluted dance, moving our bodies around to face the right way; two hours later we were doing it automatically. Throughout the day Emma kept asking us to orientate the map as it’s vital to know exactly which direction you’re walking in. She suggests picking short legs of the map at a time so that you pinpoint exactly where you are, and where you want to get to. Once you’ve ascertained where you’re aiming for you can relax a bit and have a chat and look at the sights, then when you get to your next marker you stop and take stock again.
Bearing up
Emma always uses the four Ds: distance, direction, destination and description. This could entail heading north, walking 200m to the fork in the footpath, keeping a wood on your left. When you think you’ve reached a particular field boundary, see if you can give three explanations to justify your reasoning, both visually and on the map. It’s really easy to think you’ve pinpointed exactly where you are, to then fi nd you are, in fact, 100 metres further on. Later, we measured out how many steps we each took to cover 100 metres in case we one day found ourselves in thick fog and needed a way to gauge where we were. Another way to guide yourself in low visibility, or if you’re faced with a crossroad of paths, is to take a bearing with the compass. You lay the side of the compass on the map along the path you want to take, turning the dial so the lines inside the compass match up with the northings (blue lines) on the map; then removing the compass from the map, putting ‘Fred in his bed’ (covering the red grid on the compass with the north needle) you follow the direction. It sounds complicated - and it did tax the brain somewhat! But once we got the hang of it, it was liberating to know we could do that anytime we felt a bit unsure about which way to go.
“The top of the map always points north so we learnt to align that with the north needle on the compass”
One of the main lessons of the day was if you get lost, always go back to a spot where you knew exactly where you were. Don’t go ploughing ahead. Despite making that very clear, when Grey and I did get lost (having missed a turning as we were chatting) we thought it would be a good idea to continue round the corner to see if the way we wanted was up ahead. Emma let us carry on, just as she had when we sailed past the marked way when we were again chatting; and she did have a slightly smug look on her face when we conceded defeat and retraced our steps. There’s nothing embarrassing about studying your map, and don’t glibly follow other walkers, as they may be lost too.
Knowing how to pinpoint your exact location allows you time to take photos, identify flora and fauna, listen to the birds, and enjoy the many beautiful views in our area without having to worry about getting lost. And, of course, learning a new skill is always satisfying, and the sense of achievement we felt at the end was one to savour.
www.fi rst4adventure.co.uk
Top tips
Always follow the countryside code
Use a 1:25 laminated OS map and Silva compass
Be prepared for all weathers: Everyone in the party needs to be able to stay warm and dry in the case of emergency
Plot a route and always orientate the map so you know the direction of travel
Retrace your steps if lost
ActiveBody
EDITED BY KATE MAXIM
Sugar High
Advanced nurse practitioner Aly Dilks suggests ways to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes
ACCORDING TO DIABETES UK, recent figures suggest one in ten people over the age of 40 have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. The latest statistics show there are 4.7 million people in the UK living with diabetes, with this figure expected to reach 5.5 million by 2030. Even more concerning is that there has been an increase in the number of children being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in recent years. While it is not the sole cause, obesity accounts for over 80% as the likely cause for developing the condition.
Insulin is produced by the pancreas and is essential to enable us to live. It allows the glucose in our blood to enter the cells and provide fuel for our bodies. When you eat, your body breaks down carbohydrate and turns it into glucose. Our bodies respond by releasing the correct amount of insulin to allow us to utilise the glucose as fuel and keep the level of sugar in the blood stable. With type 2 diabetes, people develop resistance to the insulin they produce causing blood sugar levels to rise so the pancreas has to release more and more insulin. For some people their pancreas has to work so hard that eventually it produces less insulin, and is unable to control the blood sugar levels.
If your body is unable to get enough glucose into the cells to function, a common symptom is tiredness. Other symptoms
include needing to wee a lot, extreme thirst and recurrent infections such as thrush. For many people the onset is slow and they do not experience any symptoms at all, so continue to function without being diagnosed. However, high sugar levels over a long period of time can cause serious damage to the kidneys, heart, eyes and the circulation to feet. With the correct treatment and care, the effects of type 2 diabetes can be managed, and often reversed.
Early diagnosis is essential and anyone who thinks they may be at risk of developing type 2 diabetes should book an appointment at their GP surgery for a blood test, or a health check with the nurse. Sometimes this blood test comes back as borderline meaning you are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes if you do not make lifestyle changes. Your GP surgery can offer diet and lifestyle advice, or refer you to a national diabetes prevention programme (NDPP). NHS England and Public Health England are both working with the National Diabetes Prevention programme to provide ‘Healthier You’. This gives personalised support to help individuals achieve a healthy weight, improve their diet and become more physically active which, taken all together, has been shown to reduce the risk of developing the condition. Since it started, more then 300,000 people have been part of the service. You do not need to be part of an organised
programme to reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. We can ALL reduce our risk simply by eating a healthy diet with more fresh fruit and vegetables, less carbohydrate and processed foods, moving about more and losing weight. That sounds very simple but the reality is often very different. Most of us are aware that we need to make lifestyle changes but often we need help to get started. Some simple tips are:
> Remember, you are not alone - there is lots of support out there to help you.
> Set realistic goals that work for you and fit into your everyday lifestyle.
> Choose healthy food and activities that you enjoy as this will help you to stay on track.
> Change one thing at a time and make that change part of your daily routine. Once you have achieved this you can add other changes.
> Exercise does not necessarily involve costly gym membership - cycle to work, or get off the bus a stop early, take the stairs instead of the lift and a brisk 30 minute walk in the evening, five times a week, is enough for you to soon start to see changes in both your weight and energy levels.
> Don’t keep putting these changes off until tomorrow. Remember there is no better time to make healthy lifestyle changes than TODAY.
•
•
•
•
Real Really is Best
Nutritionist and personal trainer Dawn Revens begins her series on health and nutrition for women over 40 by looking at the benefits of real food and regular exercise
ALL WOMEN OVER 40 years old go through the perimenopause and the menopause which are natural phases in our lives. Paying special attention to what we eat, and the exercise that we do during this time can help manage any symptoms that might occur. Eating food packed full of nutrients, keeping active, and minimising weight gain, will reduce the risk of early disease and help maintain your quality of life for longer.
Eat real food and pay attention to certain nutrients:
Protein
As you approach and enter middle age, extra protein is required to maintain muscle mass and strength, bone mass and prevent skeletal degeneration which increases the risk of osteoporosis. As a rough guide you need to eat 1-1.2g of protein per kg of body weight spread over three meals to optimise absorption. Roughly speaking this equates to a fistful of good quality protein at each meal.
Carbohydrates
Many carbohydrate-rich foods are packed with nutrients and fibre, but as the body ages the way it processes carbohydrates, specifically glucose, changes. If you eat high levels of refined carbohydrates, these will cause blood-sugar spikes that can contribute to both weight gain and insulin resistance. By consuming good quality carbohydrates, eg vegetables and small amounts of whole grains, you will have more stable blood sugar levels which will lessen weight gain as you age.
Calcium & Vitamin D
Your calcium needs may increase after menopause. Be wary of over supplementing though as calcium can’t be absorbed in large doses, and too much inhibits absorption. Calcium is best taken when food sources, and supplements, are spread throughout the
day in smaller amounts, or a slow-release supplement is taken. As we live in a country with lower levels of regular sunlight it may be worth taking vitamin D supplements to preserve bone strength, particularly as you get older.
All nutrients should ideally be obtained from real, whole food. Before supplementing with vitamins and minerals, it is always worth having a blood test to see if you are actually deficient.
Exercise regularly to maintain muscles and bones.
The rates at which you lose both bone density and lean body mass accelerate around the time of the menopause. To reduce the rate at which this happens start strength training, if you don’t already, to help to preserve bone density and muscle mass. You don’t need to lift very heavy weights, and you are unlikely to build large muscles by doing this as women have lower levels of testosterone than men. The ladies who train with me find that training with weights regularly really helps with both muscle tone and their ability to do basic tasks such as lifting and carrying.
Minimise the accumulation of fat around your middle
Fat accumulation around the midsectionvisceral fat - is associated with elevated health risks, particularly cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and dementia. It’s not unusual to gain more belly fat as you approach your menopausal years; this is due to the decrease in oestrogen levels which changes how you metabolise fat. Other factors which can cause increased belly fat include a decreased resilience to stress which elevates cortisol levels and a decreased sensitivity to insulin. Eating real, whole food, and exercise will help to lower stress and cortisol levels, as well as improve insulin sensitivity.
Paying attention to exercise, nutrition and weight is even more important as we age helping us stay disease free for longer. What changes to your lifestyle could you make over the next month to contribute to a healthier you?
Dawn is a Personal Trainer who specialises in exercise and nutrition programmes for women over 40.
www.dawnrevenshealthandfitness.com
FOREMARK GARAGE
Our OFSTED registered Camps, which have been running in the area for over 2 5 years, offer a wide range of over 30 fun activities to keep your child entertained in the holidays.
Some of the activities that we offer include bouncy castles, arts and crafts, sports, food making, crossbows, orienteering, computer games and quad biking.
All staff are DBS checked and have the necessary experience and training to deliver the wide range of activities we offer. We pride ourselves on the quality of our childcare and our excellent staff ratios.
Weacceptpaymentby childcarevouchers.
Easter Camps Easter Camps Summer Camps
8th-12th April 22nd-26th July
15th-18th April (4 day) April (4 day) 29th July- 2nd August
May Half-Term Camp Summer Camps
MULTI-ACTIVITY HOLIDAYS FOR CHILDREN AGED 4-14
MULTI-ACTIVITY HOLIDAYS FOR CHILDREN AGED 4-14
28th-31st May (4 day)
Summer Camps
8th-12th July
15th-19th July
Our OFSTED registered Camps, which have been running in the area for over 25 years, offer a wide range of over 30 fun activities to keep your child entertained in the holidays.
22nd-26th July
Our OFSTED registered Camps, which have been running in the area for over 2 5 years, offer a wide range of over 30 fun activities to keep your child entertained in the holidays.
29th July- 2nd August
Our OFSTED registered Camps, which have been running in the area for over 25 years, offer a wide range of over 30 fun activities to keep your child entertained in the holidays. Some of the activities that we offer include bouncy castles, arts and crafts, sports, food making, crossbows, orienteering, computer games and quad biking.
15th-19th July
22nd-26th July
Some of the activities that we offer include bouncy castles, arts and crafts, sports, food making, crossbows, orienteering, computer games and quad biking
5th-9th August
All staff are DBS checked and have the necessary experience and training to deliver the wide range of activities we offer. We pride ourselves on the quality of our childcare and our excellent staff ratios.
Some of the activities that we offer include bouncy castles, arts and crafts, sports, food making, crossbows, orienteering, computer games and quad biking
Summer Camps
8th-12th July
All staff are DBS checked and have the necessary experience and training to deliver the wide range of activities we offer. We pride ourselves on the quality of our childcare and our excellent staff ratios.
12th-16th August
We accept payment by childcare vouchers.
19th-23rd August
All staff are DBS checked and have the necessary experience and training to deliver the wide range of activities we offer. We pride ourselves on the quality of our childcare and our excellent staff ratios.
15th-19th July
22nd-26th July
29th July-2nd August
5th-9th August
12th-16th August
Camps
Summer Camps
15th-19th July
22nd-26th July
29th July-2nd August
Summer Camps
22nd-26th July 29th July-2nd August
5th-9th August
We accept payment by childcare vouchers.
12th-16th August
19th-23rd August
Camps
8th-12th April 8th-12th April
August 12th-16th
Tel. 01572 868 304
9.30 am – 4.30 pm (early and late care available)
CAMP COST - £165
Camps
July
We accept payment by childcare vouchers
15th-18th April (4 day) 15th-18th April (4 day) 29th July-2nd August May Half-Term Camp Summer Camps
9.30 am – 4.30 pm (early and late care available) CAMP COST - £165
We accept payment by childcare vouchers Tel. 01572 868 304 Email: info@churchillsummercamps.co.uk www.churchillsummercamps.co.uk
15th-19th July 5th-9th August
22nd-26th July 12th-16th August
Peterborough
Oakham BROOKE PRIORY SCHOOL
Physiotherapy and Physicality
Physiotherapist Sarah Babbs looks at how physio has changed over the years, and how treatment works
PHYSIOTHERAPY HAS CHANGED so much since I qualified 30 years ago (she whispers). A great deal of research and study has been done in those years and physiotherapy is now very much an evidence based discipline, and all the better for it.
Described as helping to restore movement and function when someone is affected by injury, illness or disability, physiotherapy can be used to help people in many situations. Most of us know of it having received physiotherapy treatment for back and neck pain, sporting injury and other pain in what is known as musculoskeletal care.
But physiotherapy is used across an enormous range of situations. Some will have received physiotherapy in and out of hospital following joint replacement, abdominal or cardiac surgery. Others will have received therapy following a stroke, head injury or for Parkinson’s Disease or other neurological conditions. Another specialty is working with children with developmental problems such as Cerebral Palsy. And others will have sought help from a pelvic floor specialist physiotherapist following childbirth, gynaecological or prostate problems. So physiotherapy covers many, many, aspects of health and wellbeing and its aim is to help regain, restore, or just retain the fullest life possible.
In the past physiotherapy was often seen as a fairly passive intervention. The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, our professional body, was started in the late 1800s. At that time women - and it was an entirely female profession then - worked alongside nurses using massage techniques, particularly with wounded servicemen, and this continued throughout the First World War. Electrotherapy was then introduced to
“As time and research has gone on, we understand far more about the healing of tissue and now movement and exercise is often the base of physiotherapy”
reduce pain, stimulate muscle and promote healing of tissue. Exercise therapy was really started by the Remedial Gymnast profession using a more rehabilitative approach through exercise, though ultimately most were under the physiotherapy umbrella.
As time and research has gone on, we understand far more about the healing of tissue and now movement and exercise is often the base of physiotherapy. Many people believe - often from past experience - that physiotherapy is something done to them, and are often surprised when exercise is introduced early in treatment. Hands on techniques such as manipulation of joints and massage are used, but these generally have a short term effect, so when your physio suggests exercises to do, it really is worth doing them.
To restore the tissue and prevent pain and
weakness returning, physiotherapy uses exercise to improve movement; this could include Pilates and Yoga type exercise, and sometimes fairly heavy weighted work. Research has shown that the effect of what is termed ”mechanotherapy,” tissue loading, is the best way to promote healing. Historically, those suffering from chronic tendon problems were advised to rest from the aggravating activity and use antiinflammatory medications or ice. The symptoms would settle so the person would resume the activity, only to find that the problem resurfaced. Today the treatment is to use ‘appropriate rest’ ie resting from the aggravating activity but maintaining fitness so, for example, cycle instead of run, along with ‘loading exercises.’ These literally load up the tendon using weights in a specific way, promoting sustainable tendon strength enabling it to cope, be it for sport, gardening or walking the dog.
Physiotherapy has changed hugely as our understanding of our bodies, minds and general wellbeing has developed. Many studies have shown that simply walking can help those with long term back pain as much as specific exercise programmes. For long term benefits I would advise that maybe it is time to get outside, especially now that summer is here, walking in the fresh air could just be what is needed most.
Tel: 07780 900201
Active Kids
EDITED BY MARY BREMNER
Hockey Awards Evening Success
THE LEICESTERSHIRE YOUTH Hockey
Schools and Youth Presentation evening saw Oakhamians pick up plenty of awards for their successful 2018-2019 season.
Evie, Harry, Violet and Harry all picked up awards on behalf of their successful teams - the U12 Girls’ and Boys’ teams for reaching the Regional Finals, the U13 team being National Finalists, and the U18 Boys Indoor squad reaching both the National Finals and the U18 Outdoor National Quarter Finals.
Oakham’s Director of Hockey, James Bateman, was also presented with the Neil Mullinger Award for Sporting Endeavour, recognising his support given to young athletes throughout their hockey journey.
Maddy wins Anglian Water’s Pipe Challenge
YEAR 7 STAMFORD High School student, Maddy, has today been awarded a Samsung Galaxy after winning Anglian Water’s Pipe Challenge at the Big Bang fair in Birmingham. The challenge from Anglian Water’s Future Water Zone was for young people to accurately assemble pipe fittings attached to a water meter in the fastest possible time. Maddy won with an impressive time of 13.98 seconds, with an average time of around 40 seconds.
Head of Year 7 at Stamford High School, Lynette Harte, said: ‘We are incredibly proud of Maddy for her exceptional performance at the Big Bang Fair. In Year 7 we have focused on lifelong learning skills such as determination, aiming for accuracy, questioning and thinking differently. Maddy has demonstrated these qualities and they have led to a well-deserved exceptional result.’
Oakham School Activity Camps
Come and join in the fun this summer at our Oakham School Activity Camps.
Open to all children aged 8 – 15 years old. Early drop off and late pick up available. Individual day prices available upon request.
Activities and sports included are:
● Kwik Cricket ● Hockey
● Football ● Tennis
● Rock Climbing ● Swimming
● Dodgeball ● Pilates
Monday – Friday
29 July – 2 August
5 August – 9 August
12 August – 16 August
FROM
MONDAY w/c 29/7/19, from 9a.m /week 8 –15
(individual day prices available on request)
Oakham School Sports Centre, Kilburn Road, Oakham LE15 6QN CONTACT: osel@oakham.rutland.sch.uk 01572 758754
oakhamschoolenterprises.co.uk/leisureclub
Morris Mile at Stoneygate School
IT WAS A brilliant afternoon of active fun as Stoneygate School Year 6 pupils hosted their annual Morris Mile for Leicester Grammar Junior School. Pupils had a smashing time traversing the assault course set up around the fantastic grounds of Stoneygate. Racing around a course of hay bales stacked to daring heights, scrambling over giant tyres and negotiating tricky cargo nets, pupils supported and encouraged each other beautifully throughout the event, and were rewarded with a yummy afternoon tea for their endeavours!
Swimming success for Stoneygate pupil
STONEYGATE YEAR 6 pupil Jacob, competed in the East Midlands Regional Swim Championships in April. He won six gold medals in 50, 100 and 200 metre Freestyle and Backstroke. His next challenge is a meet in Cardiff where he will be working towards qualifying for the Nationals next year.
Jacob has recently been awarded the school’s coveted Sports Scholarship Award (available for pupils in Years 7-11); Jacob demonstrated excellent leadership, commitment and sportsmanship, whilst also excelling in swimming and rugby
Oakham School Activity Camps
OAKHAM SCHOOL LEISURE Club are running their first Oakham School Activity Camps this summer. All children aged 8 – 15 are welcome to come and join in the fun, utilising the School’s excellent facilities: the ‘Crista Cullen’ Astro hockey pitches, the 25m (3.2m deep) indoor swimming pool, the refurbished sports hall, squash courts, Pilates room and extensive outdoor pitches suitable for football, rugby and cricket, plus multiple tennis courts.
The beautiful BAF Smith Pavilion will be used as a permanent base for the Oakham School Activity Camps. There will be dedicated, highly qualified sports staff who will keep the children entertained and engaged throughout the day. Activities run from 9am – 5pm with early drop off and late pick up available. Prices start from £180/ week, with individual day prices available on request.
Dates run from Monday July 29 to Friday August 16.
For more information, contact Oakham School Sports Centre on 01572 758 754 or email osel@oakham.rutland.sch.uk
County Golf feat for Teddy!
OAKHAM SCHOOL PUPIL Teddy landed a hat trick of titles, winning the U14, U16 and U18 Lincolnshire County Golf Championships. This remarkable feat is not known to have been achieved since the competition started in 1937.
Teddy, an integral Junior member of the Burghley Park Golf Club, has only been playing golf for two years and has already reached a handicap of 3.6. Last September he was selected for England Golf U18 Regional (East Midlands) training squad, and he also plays for Oakham School’s 1st team.
Reader challenges | Local club updates
Meet netball guru Sam Grif n | Essential sport kit | Pack your bike
ActiveSport
A beginner’s guide to bikepacking
Bikepacking is on the rise, here’s our guide to help you dip your toes in to a whole new world on your bike
MORE PEOPLE ARE using their bikes for adventures - big and small - and hotels, B&Bs, hostels and campsites are now well equipped to cater for bikepackers as the surge in numbers continues. It’s becoming increasingly popular to leave the tent at home and stay within the comfort of four walls. This so-called credit card touring makes bikepacking accessible to those who wish to dabble before committing to a night in the wild. But you’ll still need to make sure you’re relatively self-sufficient and carrying everything you need for a few days away.
. Bike
You might think you need a new bike for this kind of riding, but experience tells us that you should ride the bike you’re most comfortable on. Comfort is the operative
word in this entire section: you might be riding for longer than you expect, and for multiple days, which you’re probably not used to. Ensure you’ve got a fairly easy gear, you’ll be carrying more luggage than usual so hills will be harder work.
Accessories
Of course, the terrain on which you ride will dictate if this is a road, or off-road adventure, but you don’t need to go out and buy a brand new bike specifically designed for bikepacking. You may wish to have a dedicated bikepacking bike equipped with panniers in the future but for starters, it’s not necessary.
A useful adjustment for bikepacking and touring is pedals and shoes: you’re more likely to be walking around, so MTB shoes with a recessed cleat will come in handy, and if you try gravel biking, they’ll be even more worthwhile.
If you’ll be away from home for a couple of days, you’d be wise to have a set of lights (and maybe a backup set) on your bike in case you find yourself riding into the night, planned or otherwise.
If you’re travelling to more remote areas, make sure you can carry enough water. SiS bottles are perfect if you can fit them inside your frame. Or consider a hydration pack which can double up as a backpack for when you’re off the bike.
Tools and repairs
Take everything you ordinarily would on a normal bike ride: multi tool, spare tube, tyre levers and pump, but remember you’ll be out for longer than your usual steady spin with friends. A couple of tubes won’t go amiss, as well as a puncture repair kit. If the weather
turns sour, your chain will be grateful for some lube
A couple of essentials are zip ties and gaffer tape - both great for securing things to your bike.
Kit and clothing
You’ll need your experience of cycling in all conditions to decide what kit you need to go on a bikepacking adventure. As is the case with most things cycling, you’ll learn along the way and make changes based on last time.
Cold weather
Unfortunately, the UK climate isn’t as warm as we’d always like so for most bikepacking trips you’d be wise to take an extra layer or two, particularly for the end of the day. Thermal baselayers are great for both on and off the bike, and can double up as pyjamas. Preparation is key for bikepacking. Check the weather forecasts and pack accordingly. You can still have a great time in the rain! You’d be wise to take warm gloves, a beanie, a packable down jacket and neck buff.
Wet weather
The rain is part and parcel of living in the UK so you will need a good waterproof jacket. This offers an extra layer for warmth as well as a barrier against wind and rain.
Warm weather
It’s easier to pack for warm conditions than cold and wet, but remember you’re likely to be sweatier and exposed to the sun for a long time. Lightweight moisture wicking fabrics are crucial for drawing sweat away from the skin and keeping you cool. These garments are also quick to wash and dry. Footwear is much easier when the weather’s warm, flip flops are lightweight, easy to pack, and great for airing your feet after a long day in the saddle.
Temperatures are likely to drop in the evening if you’re in the mountains, or it’s a clear night, so don’t forget to take a jacket. Remember your sunglasses, sunscreen and a cap to keep sun exposure to a minimum.
Other bikepacking essentials
• Credit card: you never know when you might need to get yourself out of a pickle or have to shell out for an unexpected repair to your bike mid-adventure.
• External battery pack: if you use a GPS for navigation it’ll probably need a power
top-up before your final destination. You might also need to charge your phone so make sure you pack the correct USB cables with a small battery pack.
• First-aid kit: this needn’t be a paramediclevel satchel but a few plasters, paracetamol, aspirin and bandages are useful in case of any tumbles.
• Wet wipes: repairing on the move sometimes results in mucky hands. A packet of wet wipes doesn’t weigh much and will clean up the mess in no time.
Luggage
Once you’ve got your kit together, you’ll need somewhere to stash it while you’re riding. You could install pannier racks on your bike, but frame bags are easier initially. Ortlieb and Topeak have fantastic ranges that attach to the handlebars, seat-post and top tube of a bike. The Ortlieb range is waterproof and both brands’ bags are lightweight, durable and deceptively spacious.
A handlebar roll can be fiddly to access on the move so keep things such as off-bike clothing, sleeping bags etc in here. A seat-pack is useful for items you’re likely to need during your ride like extra layers, a rain jacket, or food. A frame bag is a useful place for tools, smaller snacks and other things you might want to grab without stopping. Don’t overfill the frame bag as it could rub on your knees as you ride.
Practice packing your bags in advance and take your loaded bike for a short spin before you leave. The bike will handle differently, particularly up and down hills, so it may take some getting used to. There is no right or wrong when it comes to packing bikepacking bags, do what works for you.
Where to go bikepacking
The world really is your oyster, but adventures
can begin close to home. You don’t need to go far to have a great time or need to book weeks off work. We have a few ideas to get you started:
• Visit family or friends: You’ll have the luxury of a warm bed, shower and a cooked meal at the end of a day’s cycling and will be spending time together.
• Ride to a National Park: The UK has 15 National Parks each with its own unique appeal. Go to one you’ve never been to before and discover something new.
• Stay in a Youth Hostel: they’re cheap and cheerful and are often well-equipped for guests arriving on bikes. A lot of YHAs are in beautiful locations around the country and you may meet some fellow bike tourers.
Planning a bikepacking route
You know the mileage you’re capable of in a single day, but factor in that the weight of your luggage might slow you down slightly. If you’re planning a trip over a number of days, ensure you’ve made a note of the more difficult terrain and schedule in an easier day afterwards to recuperate. Work out your estimated timings for each day and your arrival time at your accommodation. It’s always useful to be aware of bike shops en route should you need their expertise mid-adventure.
Useful resources
• Ortlieb YouTube channel for tips on packing your Ortlieb framebags
• Sustrans has an extensive National Cycle Network perfect for planning a route
• Booking.com or Airbnb apps are useful for booking accommodation on the move www.rutlandcycling.com
On your bike!
Rutland Cycling’s Sally Middlemiss suggests a longer distance route where you can camp on the way
This month’s cycle route is a longer distance ride, starting and finishing in Oakham. Tackle it in one epic day or split into a 2-day mini bikepacking tour. Country Bumpkin Yurts, at 32 miles, is a great café or stopover option. This pretty route uses minor roads, though crossing the A47 on the way out and back is unavoidable, so do take care on these sections.
Get a detailed map, route notes and download a GPX file for your GPS computer at https://ridewithgps.com/routes/30240228
Enjoy the ride!
Distance:
64 miles / 102km
Elevation: 3753 ft
Ride type: Road
Head out of Oakham on Braunston Rd
- 0.2 mi
Continue onto Oakham Rd - 1.4 mi
Continue onto High St - 1.9 mi
Continue onto Knossington Rd - 2.1 mi
Slight left onto The Wisp - 2.5 mi
Continue onto Oakham Rd - 3.8 mi
Turn left onto Leicester Rd/B60478.1 mi
Turn right onto Tilton Ln - 8.6 mi
Turn left onto Coplow Ln - 10.2 mi
Turn left onto A47 - 11.2 mi
Turn right onto Coplow Ln - 11.3 mi
Turn left onto Leicester Rd - 11.5 mi
Turn right onto Church St - 11.6 mi
Turn right to stay on Church St - 11.8 mi
Turn right onto Gaulby Rd - 11.9 mi
Continue onto Billesdon Rd - 13.2 mi
Continue onto Main St - 13.7 mi
Turn right onto Stoughton Rd - 13.9 mi
Continue onto Gaulby Ln - 14.4 mi
Turn left - 14.8 mi
Turn right onto Gartree Rd - 15.5 mi
Continue onto Stretton Rd - 16.4 mi
Turn right onto Oaks Rd - 17.8 mi
Turn left onto Main St - 17.9 mi
Turn right to stay on Main St - 18.1 mi
Turn right onto London Rd - 18.1 mi
Turn left onto Station Rd - 18.3 mi
Keep left to stay on Station Rd - 18.4 mi
Slight left onto Leicester Rd - 20.3 mi
At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto High St - 21.0 mi
Continue onto Saddington Rd - 21.3 mi
Continue onto Fleckney Rd - 21.8 mi
Continue onto Kibworth Rd - 22.1 mi
Turn left onto National Cycle Rte 6/
Weir Rd - 22.3 mi
Slight right at Foxton Rd - 24.9 mi
Turn left onto Laughton Rd - 25.9 mi
Turn right onto Foxton Rd - 27.5 mi
Turn right onto Main St/A4304 - 27.5 mi
Turn left onto Westgate Ln - 27.5 mi
Slight right onto Rushes Ln - 27.7 mi
Continue onto Farndon Rd - 27.8 mi
Continue onto Lubenham Rd - 28.4 mi
Continue onto The Lealand - 29.1 mi
Turn right onto Harborough Rd29.2 mi
Continue onto Main St - 29.4 mi
Continue onto Clipston Rd - 29.8 mi
Turn left onto Oxendon Rd - 30.0 mi
Continue onto Farndon Rd - 30.5 mi
Turn left onto Main St - 31.2 mi
Turn left onto Harborough Rd/A508 - 31.5 mi
Turn right - 31.9 mi
Turn left onto Harborough Rd/A508 - 31.9 mi
Turn left onto Braybrooke Rd - 32.3 mi
Turn right - 33.7 mi
Turn right - 33.7 mi
Turn left at Desborough Rd - 34.7 mi
Continue onto Arthingworth Rd34.9 mi
Turn right onto Braybrooke Rd - 36.2 mi
Turn left onto Linley Dr - 36.6 mi
Turn right onto Harborough Rd/B576 - 36.8 mi
Turn left onto Nichols St - 36.8 mi
Slight left onto Gladstone St - 36.9 mi
At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Station Rd - 37.0 mi
Continue onto Rushton Rd - 37.1 mi
Turn left onto Pipewell Rd - 37.2 mi
Turn left to stay on Pipewell Rd - 39.6 mi
Turn left at Oakley Rd - 39.7 mi
Continue onto Pipewell Rd - 40.5 mi
Keep right to stay on Pipewell Rd41.4 mi
Turn right onto A427 - 42.1 mi
Turn left onto The Hill/B670 - 42.2 mi
Turn left to stay on The Hill/B67042.7 mi
Turn right onto Main St/B670 - 42.9 mi
Continue onto Mill Rd - 43.2 mi
Continue onto Middleton Rd - 43.8 mi
Continue onto Great Easton Rd44.7 mi
Turn left onto Drayton Rd
CHALLENGES
Tri-Success
Iain Downer tells us how he got on during his first attempt at a triathlon
WHAT A DAY! I had an early start on the morning of the race as I was put in one of the first groups with a start time of 9:40am. You had to be at the palace 90 minutes before the race starts to rack your bike and ensure everything is set up in the transition area.
When I arrived, one of the earlier groups had already completed the swim which gave me a chance to watch some of the other competitors fight through the sea of bikes and complete the first transition. You don’t get a dedicated bike rack so it is important to remember where yours is to avoid wasting precious minutes during T1.
Once I’d racked my bike, I put my wetsuit on and headed down to the start line. The temperature was already up at around 18 to 20 degrees and thankfully the water wasn’t too cold. Once the klaxon sounded it was quite chaotic but I quickly settled towards the middle of the pack. It wasn’t too crowded but I did get the odd kick and the occasional swimmer cut across me, seemingly having lost all bearings.
The swim took approximately 16 minutes and I was feeling quite comfortable when I reached the finish, but the weight of the
wetsuit made the 400 metre uphill run back to the transition area a bit of a slog. I ran past my bike but realised immediately so only lost about 10 seconds. Then it was a quick change out of the wetsuit before jumping on the bike. It was an immediate uphill climb and proved the most challenging part of the day. My legs became quite heavy early on but after the first lap I started to feel quite comfortable. The sun was bright and it was getting hotter so made things tough as I got towards the end of what ended up being a 45 minute ride.
After three laps, I was pleased to get off the bike and it was a quick transition from ride to run. My pace was consistent over the
course of the two-lap (5.4km) run and it wasn’t long before I was on the home straight heading for the finish line. Both sides of the straight were lined with people which provided the motivation for one last push and I crossed the line with a time of 1 hour and 41 minutes, slightly slower than I’d originally hoped but not too bad.
I’ve definitely picked up the ‘triathlon bug’ and can’t wait for the next one but first, if I’m going to make it back onto the rugby pitch next season, a trip to the doctors is on the cards in order to get the shoulder sorted out.
www.justgiving.com/fundraising/iain-forgold
Catherine Keeps Running
Catherine Searcy told us in April that she was going to run at least a mile a day in 2019 to raise funds for The Brain Tumour Charity. She tells us how it’s going
THE 2ND OF July is the half way point of 2019 – and for me is 183 days of running at least one mile each day in memory of my brother in law Steve, whilst also fundraising for The Brain Tumour Charity.
Since the April edition of Active magazine I’ve completed a 5k race at the beautiful (and flat!) Stanwick Lakes in Northamptonshire, a 5:30am 5k run around Leicester city centre along with a few hundred other early risers, and my first ever 10k race as part of the Carnival of Running event through Market Harborough and surrounding villages. Embracing the friendly and welcoming approach to running, I’ve joined the local Harborough Athletics Club which has supported my progression from the couch to 5k. Now I’m on a 10k training plan, with weekly interval, sprint and hill sessions, something I was struggling to build into my training.
As the summer approached, and the evenings became lighter, my early morning mile on particularly busy days has moved to late evening runs which I definitely prefer. In the colder weather I’ve struggled to feel sufficiently warmed up, but now as we experience some warmth my muscles struggle to perform in the heat, even at 9am at a Saturday morning Parkrun. The ability to judge appropriate clothing, how far I can, or should run, and when to push myself, are all things that as a runner I feel I’m still very much learning. It’s a constant reminder that sometimes it’s about endurance and distance rather than speed.
Friends and family, Great Bowden WI, a local mountain bike race series and complete strangers have all continued to generously donate towards The Brain Tumour Charity in Steve’s memory. Whilst running I find that this generosity and my memories of Steve push me on.
The remainder of 2019 includes at least one race each month, a Twilight 10k walk around Rutland Water in November with friends and more volunteering opportunities both locally and for The Brain Tumour Charity event. I’m still toying with the idea of a half marathon too…Email: RUNaMILE365@hotmail.com
An Italian Adventure Awaits
Following the marathon success of the Efficient Portfolio team last month, we caught up with their Director, Charlie Reading, to hear about his next endeavour
‘THE BRIGHTON MARATHON was a fantastic challenge for me, and I’m really proud that all of our team made it across the finish line; however, it was only one part of my fitness and fundraising goals for 2019.
This year, my firm Efficient Portfolio, vowed to raise funds and awareness for the Motor Neurone Disease Association. Every day six people in the UK are diagnosed with the disease and, very sadly, this diagnosis is also a death sentence as there currently is no cure. As a team, we want to help fund the Motor Neurone Disease Association, so they can find a cure and put a stop to this cruel illness.
‘For me, the most enjoyable way to raise money is to take part in a variety of sporting events. I am a keen triathlete, so anything that involves any of the three disciplines, running, cycling and swimming, really appeals. Over the last few years I have gone from being a relative novice to competing in events such as the 142-mile Dragon Race
through the stunning Black Mountains and Brecon Beacons in Wales; the Century Cycle Challenge through local Leicestershire, and the Rutland Vitruvian. With these tests, relatively comfortably, under my belt I really wanted to push myself in 2019, so I have entered a full Iron Man in Italy on 21 September.’
An Iron Man is a long-distance triathlon race consisting of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile
bicycle ride and a marathon 26.22 mile run, raced in that order and without a break. So how is Charlie training for this?
‘I focused on running in the lead-up to the marathon, but May and June have been about getting more time in the saddle. At the end of May I completed a three day cycling weekend in Cornwall, cycling 220 miles over the long weekend. I then ‘upped the ante’ when I returned to Rutland and cycled 100 miles in a morning on the first Saturday of June.
‘The cycling part of the triathlon is my favourite, so I’m very motivated to jump on the bike. I have also been using ‘Training Peaks’ software to track my fitness, using a scoring system. Last year I completed a half Iron Man and my fitness was at 52; for completing the full Iron Man I have set myself the target of reaching a level of 95. Thanks to the Brighton Marathon training, regular morning swims, and plenty of miles on the bike, I have taken my score from 25 in November up to a current level of 90, so am on track to achieve that target.
I tend to use a weekly ratio of 8:2:1 for weekly hours spent cycling, running and swimming, but now need to build back some longer runs, so that I’m ready for September.’
Time To Get on My Bike
Old Stamfordian Jarred Lester has decided he needs to get in better shape so is planning to cycle from Lands End to John O’Groats to do so, and raise money for Macmillan Cancer at the same time
EVERY SO OFTEN you see a photo of yourself taken from a strange angle, one that you don’t see in a mirror, and one you would hastily delete if it was on your phone. I saw one of these earlier this year, and had the; ‘Surely I can’t have let myself go that badly?’ moment.
I decided I had to do something, something big, to get myself back in shape, particularly as I’m getting married next year so have to think of the photos! Therfore I am going to cycle 980 miles from Lands End to John O’Groats, as part of the Deloitte Ride Across Britain, that takes place between September 7th and 15th.
I will average over 100 miles a day, for nine days straight. With a century on a bike generally considered the equivalent to running a marathon this is an enormous challenge, but I’m determined to do it. Oh yes, I will also be camping every night, but hopefully will be so tired that I won’t notice any lack of creature comforts.
One of the biggest incentives to the ride is that I will be raising money for a fantastic charity, Macmillan Cancer support. This has really spurred me on during training.
And Stuart Too
My goal is £2500.
I have done a bit of cycling before as training for my motorsport. I race a Mallock Sports Prototype, with my father, in the BARC Clubman’s Cup. We not only race, but built the car ourselves. I have to be reasonably fit to do this as the racing is pretty intense and fatigue can quickly set in; but I’ve never done any more than a handful of 80-100 mile sportives, and certainly never anything back to back.
Since I decided to take on ‘LeJog’ I’ve lost about a stone, but more importantly I feel stronger and fitter. Most of my initial training has been indoors on a turbo trainer and Zwift (a virtual cycling platform.) This has been brilliant as it meant I could train during the wet and dark winter evenings in safety and (relative) comfort. It also simulates hills such as the fearsome Alpe D’huez climb,
Stuart Hill is another reader who is taking on the Land’s End to John O’Groats Deloitte Ride in September.
IT’S A JOURNEY that Stuart has been thinking about ever since he cycled from Wales to Norfolk back in 2013. He will also ride for nine days covering 980 miles and climbing the height of Everest roughly 1.6 times and is training hard at the moment, who knows Jarred and Stuart may actually meet en route.
Stuart lives and works near Stamford and aims to raise £2200 for Prostate Cancer UK. He is riding in memory of his uncle who was also a keen cyclist. He has already been enthusiastically raising funds for Prostate Cancer UK joining his company, Urban Edge Architecture, on their charity golf day when they raised £11,000. https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-display/ showROFundraiserPage?userUrl=StuartHill19&pageUrl=2
something we don’t have much of in our flattish terrain. Now we are into the summer months I try to do a couple of 100 mile sportives a month plus two or three shorter, high intensity, rides a week.
I recently tackled the ‘Dulux Ride London’ which is a 200 mile circuit of the capital held over two nights, with a night’s camping in-between. I was very nervous about a two day ride as it was unchartered waters for me. Thankfully all went to plan. Only central London’s horrible roads, and constant traffic lights, slowed me down. But of course, the bits you would expect to be sore were still pretty sore!
The next few months are where the real hard work begins. I look forward to keeping you up to date with my progress. https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ jarred-lester
CHALLENGES
Alpine Highs and Lows
Uppingham School teacher
Tim Worthington and eight of his cycling pals are planning to cycle across the Alps to raise funds for Crohn’s and Colitis UK
TIM HAS BEEN teaching at Uppingham for 11 years and during this time got married and had two children. His wife, Emily, also a teacher has most recently worked at UCC in Uppingham teaching English. Tim is inspired to raise money for this particular charity as Emily suffers from ulcerative colitis so he has first hand experience of the disease and wants to do his bit, as well as celebrate his 40th year. The ride takes place between June 29 and July 6.
Tim has roped in eight fellow cyclists to join him on his quest. Four colleagues are from Uppingham, three teachers and one office-based friend as well as cycling friends from all over the country.
The Route des Grandes Alpes is an alpine cycling route starting in Thonon-les-Bains on the shores of Lake Geneva and finishing on the Mediterranean coast in Menton near Nice. The ride should take them seven days and includes 18 of the most famous climbs in cycling including Izeran, Balibier and Izoard to name a few. They will cycle over 700 kilometres of alpine passes and hairpin bends, climbing 18,000 metres in total.
Training is going well so far including a training trip in the Yorkshire Dales. But they have managed to accumulate a broken collar bone and dislocated finger so far between them. Hopefully the ride will go well… www.justgiving.com/TRWorthington?utm_id=27
Biking to Berlin
Two intrepid friends are planning to cycle from Gretton to Berlin this summer
ANDREW HARTLEY, A languages teacher from Gretton and jeweller
James Firmin, who lives in Uppingham, plan to cycle 600 miles from Gretton to Berlin to raise funds for two local charities, The Travers Foundation and Integrated Cancer Therapies.
They expect to average 70 miles a day and will leave Gretton on 21 July - do go along to wave them off – and arrive at The Brandenburg Gate in Berlin six days later to be met by Terry Forsey, The Travers Foundation chairman.
They have been training hard for months including joining the Gretton Charity Sportive a couple of weeks ago. Next month they will tell us more about their plans, training and the logistics of the trip. https://www.travers-foundation.org.uk/gretton-to-berlin-sponsoredcycle-ride-2019.html
The sport with the three second rule
Mary Bremner meets Samantha Griffin, who lives and breathes netball and knows that the three second rule has nothing to do with dropping food on the floor, it’s how long you can hold the ball for
Tell us exactly what you do.
I am a PE teacher and netball coach at Loughborough High, that’s my job. But I am also head coach at Charnwood Rutland Netball Club which is based across Rutland and Leicestershire as well as U19 Loughborough Lightning head coach.
Why is the team based across the count y, rather than in one town?
It’s slightly complicated! I used to play for Charnwood Sapphires who were based in Loughborough. When I moved to coach in Oakham I set up another club, Rutland Rockets. I coached one club, and played for the other so it got really tricky as the two teams were competing against each other in the major junior competitions. Neither club was strong enough to compete at National level so we decided to amalgamate the clubs to become Charnwood Rutland Netball Club, hence our split location. I knew we had excellent players in both.
It was the right decision to make as we are now in the National Premier League and have come third two years in a row with our U16 team at National Club Finals. Historically, East Midlands was not the strongest area – not any more!
We practice at Catmose in Oakham, as well as Loughborough with our premier team based at the new facilities at Brooksby which is about equi-distant between the two towns.
It sounds like you are a very successful team;
how many players do you have? 250, ranging from 8 year olds to the ‘ladies back to netball’ team, some of whom are in their fifties. Some of our teams are playing in lower leagues, many just playing for the fun of it and enjoying the chance to compete. Other teams are very successful and playing at the top of the game. We have four teams in the Leicestershire league; four in the Loughborough league and four junior teams - all playing for the fun of it. Then we have the Performance Pathway teams who are in the East Midlands Regional Leagues, you have to qualify for this league, as well as another team in the National Premier League.
So which do you do for the team; coach or play?
I play in the National Premier team, at goal attack. I also coach this team as well as run all the development sessions and coach the U16 performance team. Luckily we have some very talented girls coming through, so keeping your place can be tricky. The club is now bringing through coaches and umpires as well as players.
That all sounds like it should keep you very busy, but you also have something to do with the England academy pathway don’t you? Yes, I’m one of England’s development coaches for the U19s and U17s academy. I started doing this last September and was lucky enough to experience netball Europe in March with the U17 squad.
So is the aim one day to be the England teams’ coach?
Ultimately yes, it’s something to aim for.
And you have one more team under your belt too don’t you?
Yes to progress as a coach it’s important I coach all levels to gain lots of experience. I coach a Franchise team, the Loughborough Lightning U19 squad who are based at the uni. This way I get more coaching and management experience at a higher level and learn from coaches more experienced than myself. The Franchise teams have players whose ultimate aim is to play netball at a professional level.
We start building performance squads at the age of 15. Within the pathway we have U17, 19 and 21 teams. Many of the girls stay in the area and go to university locally so they can carry on playing for the teams as they get older. A 19 year old could be playing in the super league, which is the top tier of netball if they are strong enough. The age group teams play in the NPL league and summer tournament which is a national pathway competition.
What makes a good netball player? Someone who is talented, with the ability to read the game and have essential skills such
as hand-eye coordination. But what I believe is important is someone who is prepared to work hard and train hard, with a willingness to learn and be part of a team. I sometimes get some very gifted players but they won’t put the effort in off the court which is very frustrating. I would much prefer to have a team member who is prepared to work really hard to get better, improving all the time. There is no room for prima donnas in my teams!
I assume that players have to be very fit, and what are the risks of injury?
Yes they do. As well as playing lots of matches our club runs a fitness programme. We have strength and conditioning sessions three times a week, run through the club, which the whole team do together with a coach. Then there is an individual programme for each player. It takes a lot of commitment and dedication.
Ankles and knees are the traditional injuries, with ACL injuries becoming more common across all standards of netball. Netball is a high impact sport so tough on the joints.
How did you get started playing netball, what do you like about it and did you want to play for England?
I started playing aged seven at my primary
well at the World Cup which is being held this month in Liverpool?
Yes, interest was created by that win which was very exciting. Netball is a growing sport and becoming really popular. You can now have a career as a player and it’s just going to get bigger and bigger. It’s a huge sport in Australia, with many professional players. They are the favourites to win the World Cup, but we are ranked second.
school in Frisby and was scouted by the county aged 12. I played for the Melton Club and then moved to Charnwood Sapphires aged 14 who were in a higher league. I played for Leicestershire in the county system and experienced National club competition with Charnwood. Every competitive player aims to play at the highest level possible and wants to play for England, but I wasn’t tall enough. I’m still a very keen player, but I love coaching.
I love the team element of the sport. You build up some really good friendships and learn some excellent skills: communication, commitment, confidence and resilience –losing is hard! Netball teaches you to work hard and keeps you very fit – it’s also great fun.
You have a very successful team at Loughborough High as well don’t you?
Yes we have made the National Finals with the school for the last five years, and coming fifth this season with the U16s is our highest achievement to date. Charnwood is made up of lots of girls from Loughborough High and Oakham School, another school team that makes the Nationals regularly.
Since the England team won gold at the Commonwealth Games last year has netball become more popular? And are we going to do
Do you have any potential England players? Yes, we have two or three who are pushing for it. They are a bit young yet but if they keep playing the way they are, keep fit, work hard and are committed they may have a chance.
Your life sounds incredibly busy, and stuffed full of netball. Do you do it every day? And what about other sports?
I do something netball-related every day apart from Fridays; I love it. But I do try to have a life as well and catch up with friends during my time off.
I also ride. I was brought up with the Quorn pony club and used to compete. But I got to the age of about 19 and decided I couldn’t compete in both sports successfully. I opted for netball, but still ride at least twice a week, giving me time to clear my head and relax.
What are the future plans at Charnwood Rutland?
We are always looking for new recruits: players, volunteers and sponsors and would be delighted to hear from anyone interested. We are also very keen to engage with local primary schools and bring netball to them. We have a tots netball team that plays on Saturday mornings for 8-10 year olds. We want to bring netball to primary schools and engage with the girls. Once a girl has fallen in love with netball, we’ve got her for life, which is just what we want.
www.charnwoodrutlandnc.co.uk
Jake Hilder
EQUESTRIANISM
Where to compete this month
Julia lists some upcoming events in the horse world so would be competitors get your diaries out. Spectators are always welcome, and entry is often free for them.
By Julia Dungworth
Buckminster Horse Trials
July 6-7
Buckminster Park, Nr Grantham, NG33 5SD
Spectators: Admission free
The most local affiliated horse trials in the area, Buckminster’s long standing horse trial is always a lovely summery outing. They predominantly host Novice and 100 classes along with a hotly contested five year old section as well as an under 18s competition. The course is run over old parkland with a good ‘pull’ up the first hill as you near the house, which then offers stunning views over the Tollemache estate. They have added six new fences this season and their aim is to encourage, rather than frighten, the less experienced. There are a few trade stands to have a look round and as always the essential ice cream van!
www.buckminsterparkode.co.uk
Burghley Pony Club One Day Event
July 13-14
Burghley Park, PE9 3JY
Spectators: Admission free
This year the One Day Event should be bigger than ever as it’s hosting the Area 6 team, and individual qualifiers. They also have their lovely new water complex at the top of The Dell, where the old steps were. Five classes are on offer, from 80 all the way up to 110cm with an open 90 section. There’s not quite the trade stand village that is at the big horse trials in September, but there’s always a homemade cake stand with some delicious goodies on sale. www.burghleyponyclub.co.uk
Lycetts Festival Of Hunting
July 17
East of England Showground, PE2 6XE
Admission: £20 per person on the gate, children under 13, free, concessions for advance tickets
This historic and prestigious event is the annual showcase for the world of hunting and has the greatest gathering of hounds in the country. It is also an important day in many social calendars. 2019 will celebrate the 131st Peterborough Royal Foxhound Show, as well as the popular Inter Hunt relays where opposing teams of riders race each other over a mirror image set of jumps. There will also be a variety of showing classes.
Harriers, beagles, basset hounds, draghounds and bloodhouds will be competing and there will be displays of Fell hounds, coursing dogs and the popular Sealyham Terrier. The shopping village is definitely worth a visit.
www.festivalofhunting.com
BSJA Second Round Show
July 17-21
Arena UK, Grantham
Arena UK again hosts the second round Scope Qualifiers, National Amateur Qualifiers and normal jumping classes up to 1.40m.
This is a brilliant opportunity to go and see a lot of big name show jumpers competing some of their talented youngsters, and stars of the future. You can also rub shoulders with them in a few select trade stands and the on-site restaurant. www.arenauk.com
Rutland Riding Club Unaffiliated Dressage wwJuly 28
Grange Farm, Wittering, PE8 6NR
A great opportunity to see some lower level dressage; this is where we all started. You will always get a good mixture of horses coming through the levels. Classes from Prelim up to Medium level, and even a Pick Your Own test in one of the Grange’s newly surfaced arenas.
www.rutlandridingclub.co.uk
www.grange-farm.co.uk
Burghley Pony Club One Day Event
Jeremy Smithson-Beswick tells us what’s happening at some of our local clubs this month
IF YOU’RE WONDERING how to entertain your family, and yourself, this summer, there are a whole host of local sports clubs who’ll welcome you with open arms. The good folk at Leicestershire and Rutland Sport have put in place a number of events for all the family to get active. As they point out: ‘It’s sometimes hard to decide what to do simply because you can’t find the right place to look’ so use their search engine www.lrsport.org/ getactive which is chock full of clubs, groups and activities.
Coming highlights are the Race for Life Leicester on July 7 and, on the same date, Nature Valley Big Tennis Weekends at Hinckley and Narborough – a free day for all.
Market Harborough tennis club at Great Bowden are always welcoming to newcomers and offers free coaching for the disabled, and Oakham’s equivalent is equally convivial. Then there’s National Parks’ Week from July 23 – 29 where you can enjoy a whole host of activities such as adventures for beginners, walking routes, trail running, cycle routes, camping and star gazing.
If badminton’s your thing then Market Harborough Leisure Centre is offering pay as you play for juniors in the summer holidays with coaching sessions and both competitive and fun formats, or get yourselves over to Great Glen on August 31 for the annual wheelbarrow race in aid of LOROS with
showground, stalls and live entertainment in the evening.
Or why not try cricket? Kibworth Ladies CC has flourished since we first featured them in 2016. At that time they’d been around for two seasons but were just starting to play competitively in the league. Three years on and Chair Alison Wall tells me they’ve already claimed silverware this season, landing the women’s softball Indoor ”World Cup” trophy against five other teams from the area, an event run by Leicestershire CCC.
That led to an invitation to the Regional Finals, up against other winners from Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire and they prevailed there too, beating Belper Meadows in the final and were the only team to break the 100 runs mark in their eight overs.
Alison runs the girls’ section as well as the women’s and both are actively recruiting, so whatever your age or ability it’s really worth considering. Several members of the first team hadn’t ever played before pitching up at Fleckney Road for the first time. The coaching is first class and has recently been improved even further by the recruitment of Tom Flowers’ outfit. The facilities at Kibworth are amazing, certainly the best for many a mile. All of the women I met those many months ago are still playing, so it’s obvious that they find it rewarding. Perhaps you would too.
If you live too far from Kibworth, then Market Overton has a thriving side with free taster sessions, and Ketton Sports CC has
“Kibworth Ladies CC has flourished since we first featured them in 2016”
Kibworth Ladies CC
been named one of thirteen ‘cluster’ clubs for women and girls in our area. They tell me their Thursday evening sessions are ‘based on fun and getting a feel for cricket, even if you are a complete novice and regardless of your age’. Former player Zara Wildsmith now plays for Leicestershire CCC Girls and congratulations are due to her for good performances this season against Northants and Nottinghamshire.
Their three men’s sides have all had positive starts to their season with brothers Mat and Will Bird playing a leading role. Mat carried his bat for the firsts against Narborough and Littlethorpe for 103 not out whilst Will scored what the club called a ‘match winning’ 91 for the seconds against Wakerley and Barrowden. Their Pit Lane ground will be hosting a number of county games – both male and female – this season too. Next dates are July 3 and 9 with Hunts vs The RAF and Leicestershire U15 Girls vs Durham. There will be a bar and a barbecue and they say, ‘we hope to see supporters to watch as many of these fixtures as possible... we can’t wait to see you’.
Oakham’s first XI have got off to a flier this season with six wins from seven. Ex-county player Wes Durston heads the batting statistics with an average just short of a century followed by Rob Taylor with around eighty. These two have only been able to play around half the games, and amongst the
(almost) ever-present the plaudits go to Cameron Flowers and skipper Richard Martin. Shaun Morris has been the pick of the bowlers so far with eighteen wickets at just under 14 runs apiece. In the same division, Uppingham have steadied the ship after a shaky start and sit in mid-table but Market Harborough seem, alas, to be in free-fall after relegation last season and prop up the table with no wins to date.
Stamford, meanwhile, over in the Cambs and Hunts League, are having every bit as good a start to their season as Oakhamwhich is remarkable given their flirtation with relegation last year. They sit in second place having also won all of their games with one exception.
Although it’s of course the close season for football, Stamford AFC – The Daniels – have
been busy recruiting backroom staff and negotiating behind the scenes. They recently announced a new two year kit sponsorship deal with Chromasport, who will supply both home and away kits for all of their teams from the first XI to the juniors. Chairman Dave Whitby professed himself ‘delighted’ with the news.
The club’s Richard Curtis also reports that they’ve appointed a new commercial manager, Andy Barham, latterly of Peterborough Pirates ice hockey, and Stuart Craig as development officer. Young Daniels chairman Guy Walton said, ‘Stuart has a keen eye for football development and club structure on and off the field and joins us after a successful spell as Director of Adult Football overseeing five promotions in six seasons, two league titles and six cup semi-finals’.
Andy Barham and Stuart Craig of Stamford AFC
Action at Oakham CC
Image: John Butcher
1. BUFF® Pack Run Cap
Designed for long distance runners, this high tech sports cap offers vital UV protection and breathability, with moisture management properties and an inner sweatband.
PRICE £26.50
FROM www.buffwear.co.uk
2. Ortlieb Handlebar-Pack 9L
Ideal for riders who don’t have luggage mounts and who want luggage that can be completely removed from the bike when you reach your destination.
PRICE £81.99
FROM www.rutlandcycling.com
3. Giant Defy Advanced 1 2019
The all-new Defy is purpose-built to help you tackle long-distance road rides in all types of conditions. Constructed of Advanced-Grade Carbon Composite and D-Fuse technology it strikes the balance of weight, aerodynamics and compliance.
PRICE £1,999
FROM www.Juliescycles.co.uk
4. High Density Bamboo Cycle Shorts
Bamboo fabric absorbs three times its weight in water, keeping sweat away from skin, but also locking in warmth when the temperature drops.
PRICE £45.00
FROM www.carrotbananapeach.com
5. Ortlieb Rackless Seat-Pack 11L Grey
A well engineered seat post mounted bike bag that is easy to attach, lightweight, waterproof and has a load capacity of 11 litres.
PRICE £97.99
FROM www.rutlandcycling.com
6. Ortlieb Back Roller Classic QL2.1 40L Pannier Pair
Crafted from durable polyester, this is tough enough to withstand years of use and still be fully waterproof. It includes an integrated internal pocket for quick storage of items you’ll often need to hand.
PRICE £102.99
FROM www.rutlandcycling.com
7. Muc Off Matt Finish Detailer
Make fingerprints and glossy marks a thing of the past. The premium-grade formula will leave any matt surface with a streak and gloss-free protective finish that reduces dirt adhesion.
PRICE £12.99 for 750ml
FROM www.georgehallscycles.co.uk
8. Soybean Long sleeve Wrap
A wrap top made from hypoallergenic, UV resistant and moisture wicking light weight Soybean fabric. The breathability and stretchability of this fabric means you can warm up and perfom in style and comfort.
PRICE £55
FROM www.carrotbananapeach.com
Kit Bag
As the weather improves, it’s time to get on your bike!
