Active Magazine // Stamford & Rutland // May 2018

Editor’s Letter

EVERY NOW AND AGAIN, LITTLE OLD

Leicestershire County Cricket Club pops up out of nowhere and wins something. Then, it disappears for a while. Such has been the fate of this most likeable of cricket clubs, one that has produced wonderful talent which always seems to have a bit more class or something a bit different about them: Gower, Agnew, Whitaker, Balderstone, Birkenshaw and Broad spring to mind.

But county cricket has changed, and the counties that have test grounds seem increasingly to dominate, plucking the best talent from the others at will. To survive, you need a conveyor belt of young talent committed to their county. Fortunately, the Foxes have a leader now who knows no other way than 100% commitment: Paul Nixon.

The ex-Leicestershire keeper is back at the club he served with such distinction as a player and such is his passion, enthusiasm and energy for LCCC, you can only see it going one way: up.

So if you’ve got a spare day (or evening, for that matter), try to get over to Grace Road and support our county because I predict big things are about to happen there, and it will be great to be along for the ride right from the start.

As cricket heralds the start of summer, so we can finally put that interminably long, arduous winter to bed at last. To help you make the most of whatever the next few months have in store, we’ve created a ticklist of all the things you could get up locally, whether it be sport, food, travel and entertainment.

There is so much to do around here, and we couldn’t possibly get everything in here so keep an eye on our regular What’s On pages for more detail each month.

Enjoy the issue.

Steve

Publisher Chris Meadows chris@theactivemag.com

Editor Steve Moody steve@theactivemag.com

Deputy editor Mary Bremner mary@theactivemag.com

Production editor Julian Kirk julian@theactivemag.com

Art editor Mark Sommer mark@theactivemag.com

Contributors

Martin Johnson, William Hetherington, Jeremy Beswick, Julia Dungworth

Photographers

Nico Morgan, Pip Warters

Production assistant Gary Curtis

Advertising sales Lisa Chauhan lisa@theactivemag.com

Amy Roberts amy@theactivemag.com

Editorial and Advertising Assistant Kate Maxim kate@theactivemag.com

Accounts accounts@theactivemag.com

Active magazine, The Grey House, 3 Broad Street, Stamford, PE9 1PG. Tel: 01780 480789

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Disclaimer

Copyright (c) Grassroots Publishing Limited (GPL) 2018. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, or be stored in any retrieval system, of any nature, without prior permission from GPL. Any views or opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of GPL or its affiliates. Disclaimer of Liability. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the quality and accuracy of the information contained in this publication at the time of going to press, GPL and its affiliates assume no responsibility as to the

ACTIVE LIFE

13 WHAT’S ON

Great things to do for all the family

19 TRAVEL

Visiting Canada and its stunning scenery

21 HOW TO...

Cook a delicious sweetcorn chowder

23 GARDENING

More great tips from our expert columnist

26-27 FASHION

Stylish trench coats

FEATURES

14-17 SUMMER FUN

Great things to see and do locally

24-25 A FITTING MONUMENT

We meet designer Harvey Gardiner

60-63 GENERATION GAME

The new boss of Leicestershire cricket ACTIVE BODY

30 HIP HOPE

Avicenna Clinic on treating hip pain

33 FIVE STEPS

TO BETTER EATING

Nutrition advice from Dawn Revens

35 MARATHON SESSIONS

Running tips from Function Jigsaw

REGULARS

36-38 CHALLENGES

Updates on our intrepid fund-raisers

45 MARTIN JOHNSON

More wry observations

46-51 GREAT WALKS

Maxey and King’s Norton

64-73 ROUND-UP

How clubs in the area are faring

74 KITBAG

Running, cycling and walking gear

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Active life

● Explore Canada ● Create rooms in your garden ● Why everyone should invest in a trench coat ● Meet designer Harvey Gardiner

Edited by Mary Bremner

DESIGN COMPETITION FOR RUTLAND POPPY PROJECT

The Rutland Poppy Project is a community artwork event to commemorate the centenary of the end of the First World War.

Communities throughout Rutland have been busy making ceramic poppies and are well on their way to completing the 10,000 required for the display in the grounds of Oakham Castle to be shown during October and November this year.

The organisers of the project are now holding a competition to decide who will design the final display. The competition is open to everyone –children, adults and professional designers. Just be aware of the remit – poppies cannot be attached to the buildings. Designs should be submitted by May 25.

To find out more, and to enter, email RutlandPoppyProject2018@gmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/rutlandpoppyproject

BELL RINGERS WANTED

Around 1,400 bell ringers died during the First World War. Bells were silent during the war but rang out to celebrate the armistice in November 1918. Bells will ring again this November across the country to celebrate the centenary and you could be one of the people pulling the ropes.

There is a national shortage of ringers so as part of the Armistice 100 commemoration there is a campaign to

recruit 1,400 new ringers, and St Martin’s Church in Stamford is looking to recruit some. Ringers come from diverse backgrounds and are of all ages, and everyone is welcome.

Practice sessions are held at St Martin’s on Tuesday evenings from 7.30-9pm. If you would like to join a practice evening, email stamfordbaron@sb.ldgcb.org.uk or ring 01780 752156.

CYCLISTS WANTED TO SUPPORT RAFA

To help commemorate the RAF’s centenary year, serving officer Gary Waterfall is trying to gather together a team of 100 cyclists who will each ride 100 miles and raise £100 for the Royal Air Forces Association (RAFA).

The ‘4x100’ will start and finish at Café Ventoux in Tugby on Sunday, June 11. The event is part of an ITP event (www.itpevents.co.uk/event/ the-rutland-border-epique).

Gary aims to lead the team of 100 (from behind) and hopes to raise £10,000 for RAFA to help the RAF family of yesterday, today and tomorrow.

RAFA is a membership organisation and registered charity that provides welfare support to the RAF family including all serving and ex-serving personnel and their dependants. Anyone can ride, there is no need to be part of the RAF, or indeed RAFA.

To sign up, go to www.rafa.org.uk/get-involved/ events/rutland-border-epique-raf100

GRETTON SPORTIVE AND FAMILY FUN DAY

Whether you’re an experienced rider or enthusiastic beginner, The Gretton Charity Sportive offers something for everyone and raises money for local charity The Travers Foundation.

For cyclists there is the option of a 30-mile route which offers 1,800ft of climbing, or the more challenging 4,100ft climb of the 64-mile route. The start is at the playing fields in Gretton with a staggered start for the long course from 9am and the shorter route from 9:30am.

Both rides follow the same route to Glapthorn near Oundle before heading back towards Gretton. At Lyddington the long route then heads west and allows you spectacular views of the Eyebrook reservoir. The route then winds its way through the beautiful Welland Valley, with the

SHOP OF THE MONTH

ASHER SWIMPOOL CENTRE

Asher Swimpool Centre, based in Fulbeck, is celebrating its 50th year in business. This family-run business is now run by Claire Asher and builds and maintains indoor and outdoor pools, working mainly within a 50-mile radius of their base.

Their expertise is second to none so they are able to offer loads of advice. As well as pools they offer a DIY package, exercise pools, hot tubs, and even hydrotherapy pools for animals! Their showroom has a demo pool on show, including all the mechanics. www.asher-swim.co.uk

big test coming at approximately 50 miles up to Neville Holt. There you are rewarded with some spectacular views across the Welland Valley.

The first feed station for both routes is at approximately 22 miles and the second at roughly 50 miles. Showers are available at the Gretton sports club and the licensed bar will open at 11am.

To make this a great family day out, at 1pm the kids will have their turn with an off-road fun bike route around the playing fields.

At the same time there is a BBQ sponsored, by the Blue Bell Inn in Gretton, selling food to replenish your energy levels before the Top Banana Band start at 2pm. www.travers-foundation.org.uk

Rutland on film

A new video showing Rutland as it has never been seen before, made by Tom Wragg of Stamford company Helium Media, has just been launched by Discover Rutland.

The video, filmed over nine months, gives a flavour of what Rutland has to offer visitors to the county, including Aqua Park Rutland which is opening for the third year running this month. The film aims to attract more families to the local area.

Discover Rutland membership is open to all businesses who would like to help promote Rutland as a visitor destination. www.discover-rutland.co.uk

Support for the Travers Foundation

The Travers Foundation, a volunteerrun charity that helps local 13-30-year olds improve their sporting and performing arts skills, has received a generous donation from Northamptonshire-based Lamb & Holmes Solicitors.

This money will help 19-year old Gretton golfer Callum Farr, who has been playing golf for 10 years. Last year he competed in UK and European amateur events, winning the Royal Birkdale Silver Goblet and other competitions.

The donation from Lamb and Holmes will help towards coaching and competition support.

The foundation supported 151 young people in 2017, helping them win an amazing 96 gold, 25 silver and 18 bronze medals. www.travers-foundation.org.uk www.lambandholmes.com

Crowdfunding yurts

Great Oxendon-based Country Bumpkin Yurts has successfully launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise £3,500 to set up a canvas café and event venue which champions fresh, organic and free range local food and drink in a quirky country setting.

The money raised will fund the seating and go towards the catering equipment. Nearly 50 pledges were made in just two weeks.

As well as the funding, owners Lara and Jen have also won £1,000 towards a crowdfunding project in the She Means Business Female Entrepreneur category. They were delighted with this win and said: “Winning has given us the confidence to take a step forward with our business idea. We’re hoping that the project will encourage people to get together with friends, eat great food and spend more time outdoors.”

After this success the café is one step closer to launching. www.countrybumpkinyurts.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

There’s lots going on in your area this month, why not try some of these?

● Round three of the mountain bike Friday Night Summer MTB race series is being held at the disused Stibbington quarry on June 1, sponsored by Velo Wheels. The course has been designed to provide some interesting technical challenges and proceeds from the event will go to Alzheimer’s Research UK. www.facebook.com/groups/FNSSMTB

● Cold War Jets are holding an open day on May 27 at Bruntingthorpe Airfield near Lutterworth. Gates open at 9am.

● The 12th National Watersports Festival takes place at Rutland Water (Sykes Lane), between June 8-10. This event celebrates world class watersports and showcases Rutland at its best. www.nationalwatersportsfesitval.com

● Active Rutland is holding a health action day at Catmose Sports Centre in Oakham on May 12. There will be lots of activities, demonstrations and fun for everyone.

● Celebrate the centenary of the Royal Air Force, and support the RAF Benevolent Fund,

by watching the Central Band of the RAF in concert at The Cresset in Peterborough on Saturday, June 9. The concert will also feature choirs including the Peterborough Male Voice Choir. Tickets cost from £16. www.peterboroughsings.org.uk

● St Ives antique fair is being held at Burgess Hall on May 27 and 28. www.stivesantiquesfair.co.uk

● The Cottesmore Military Wives choir will be performing at the Harringworth festival concert on June 9. Tickets are for sale through the village website and cost £10. The concerts ties in with the flower festival.

● Stamford Amateur Musical Society will be

performing the musical 9-5 at the Corn Exchange between June 13-16. www.stamfordcornexchange.co.uk

● There is a gin and jazz festival at Water Newton on June 2. Funds raised will go to The Nene Valley Care Trust, a charity that supports young people leaving local authority care. Proceedings start at 5pm. www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/gun-jazz-river-nenecottages-tickets-43503204255

● Hambleton village is holding an open day on Monday, May 7. Many residents will open their gardens and there will be lots of stalls, supercars on display and lots of lovely cake.

PLAN YOUR BEST SUMMER

Make sure you don’t waste this summer with our list of the best things to do and see this season

PLACES TO GO

Gorse Hill City Farm, Leicester

Situated on a 20-acre site on the outskirts of Leicester city centre, Gorse Hill City Farm is a registered charity, a working farm and community project dedicated to the welfare of animals and to providing a fun and educational experience. There are self-led visits and tours available, and plenty of ‘meet the animals’ days. www.gorsehillcityfarm.org.uk

Richard III Visitor Centre, Leicester Cathedral

A fabulous modern museum featuring interactive exhibits on King Richard III’s life, death and grave discovery in the city. www.kriii.com

Botanic Gardens, Leicester

The University of Leicester Botanic Garden is a breathtaking site close to the halls of residence for the university in Oadby, with arboretum, herb gardens and sculptures. www2.le.ac.uk/institution/botanic-garden

Garden of Surprises, Burghley House

The amazing contents of this area are inspired by the original Elizabethan garden and are hidden from the outside – waiting to reveal their (often watery!) surprises to those who enter. www.burghley.co.uk

Althorp food festival

On May 12 and 13, the Althorp Estate is hosting the fourth annual Althorp Food and Drink Festival, celebrating quality producers and suppliers in Northamptonshire and the surrounding counties. www.spencerofalthorp.com

Easton Walled Gardens

Lincolnshire’s own ‘lost’ garden in which, 15 years after restoration, you can see meadows, roses, sweet peas, vegetables and cut flowers. www.visiteaston.co.uk

Belton House

The National Trust’s Belton House in Lincolnshire is a country estate with formal Italian and Dutch gardens, a historic deer park and an epic adventure playground. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/belton-house

New Lodge Farm

Why not nip away camping for a few days at New Lodge Farm, set in an attractive rural location at the heart of Rockingham Forest, just outside the 17th century village of Bulwick. It has an award-winning farm shop, butchery and eatery too. www.newlodgefarm.com

Nene Valley Railway

The Nene Valley Railway allows you to step back in time as you climb aboard a heritage steam or diesel train, relaxing in restored wood panelled coaches or compartments, and you can even board a trip on the legendary Flying Scotsman at certain times of the year. www.nvr.org.uk

MUSIC

New Texfest Music Festival

Leicestershire is set to welcome a brand new major music festival this summer as Texfest lands at Market Harborough Showground from June 29 – July 1. Texfest will welcome a host of acts, including a Nick Grimshaw DJ set and the Fratellis. www.texfest.co.uk

Oundle International Music Festival and Food Festival

With the International Festival, an annual arts festival which incorporates music, theatre, film and Party at the Wharf in July, and the Food Festival throughout June culminating with a street market, Oundle has plenty of great things going on this summer. www.oundlefestival.org.uk

Nevill Holt Opera

This year the feature performance at the Nevill Holt Opera is Mozart’s Le nozze di Figaro. The comic opera has four acts and was composed in 1786. The main theatre at Nevill Holt has undergone a renovation and it will be open for the first time. Performances begin at 5pm. www.nevillholtopera.co.uk

SPORT

Fishing at Rutland Water and Eyebrook There is plenty of superb coarse and fly fishing

locally, including useful beginner’s courses, at Rutland Water and Eyebrook, among others. www.go-fish.co.uk, www.anglianwater.co.uk

Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre

Canoeing, climbing, yoga and paddle boarding are all on the menu at Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre, and there are lots of courses and training you can take, whether you’re a child, beginner or getting back into sport. www.lopc.co.uk

Rutland Water cycling

One of the best cycle routes in the country, why not hire a bike and circle the water, taking in any of the cafés and peaceful spots on the way. www.rutlandcycling.com

Stop at Café Ventoux

Café Ventoux is far more than just a café, it’s a ‘destination café’ that celebrates cycling, great food and coffee, shopping, glamping and the outdoor life all in one place, on the Route 64 cycle way. www.cafe-ventoux.cc

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Fineshade Wood bike trails

Fineshade family cycle route is a five-mile circular trail starting and finishing at the top of the car park. This green-graded trail has some gentle to moderate hilly sections, and takes you through most of the main woodland areas and their varied habitats.

www.forestry.gov.uk

Tallington water sports

Tallington’s lakes are fed with spring water, so it’s a pleasure to participate in any water sport activity. These range from water skiing on its tournament standard lake to wakeboarding and knee-boarding, under the watchful eye of its water ski and wakeboard school. www.tallington.com

Virgin hot air balloon flights

Why not get a new perspective on where you live from the basket of a hot air balloon? Virgin offers flights from Market Harborough, Lutterworth, Stamford, Oakham and Bourne. www.virginballoonflights.co.uk

New infinity pool at Ragdale Health Hydro

Ragdale Hall, nestled in the rolling Leicestershire countryside, combines state-ofthe-art facilities with the charm of traditional Victorian architecture to create one of the most luxurious and relaxing health spas in the country. And now there’s an incredible new infinity pool too. www.ragdalehall.co.uk

EVENTS

Kelmarsh Country Fair

Traditionally held on the Easter weekend, the Kelmarsh Country Show was postponed until June 16 and 17 because of the incessant rain.

However, all the usual country competitions and activities will take place, and hopefully the weather will be better too! www.kelmarshcountryshow.co.uk

Peterborough CAMRA Beer Festival

One of the biggest beer festivals in Britain, the Peterborough CAMRA event sees two vast marquees lined with every imaginable brew. And there’s some pretty good food to try too. www.peterborough-camra.org.uk

Rockingham Castle jousting

Medieval jousting is once again brought to you by the Knights of Nottingham on June 17. Exciting displays of swordsmanship, pike drills and skill at arms combat will all be before you as you witness the knights’ battle for supremacy amidst the thunder of hooves and clashes of steel. www.rockinghamcastle.com

Kilworth Theatre

There are always fabulous productions on at Kilworth House, and May to July this summer sees a production of Guys and Dolls, followed through to September by Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. www.kilworthhousetheatre.co.uk

Oakham Cider and Sausage Festival

The eighth annual festival celebrates all that’s great about the British summer: cider and barbecued sausages! Held at the Grainstore Brewery in Oakham from May 25-28, there is plenty of live music too. www.grainstorebrewery.com

Castle Bytham Midsummer Festival

Food, stalls, country activities and a mini music festival all combine for a surprisingly big and buzzing event over the weekend of June 23-24 in the pretty Lincolnshire village of Castle Bytham. www.midsummerfestival.co.uk

AND A BIT FURTHER AFIELD…

The Game Fair

Celebrating British field sports and country life, the event at Ragley Hall in Warwickshire boasts a comprehensive itinerary for the whole family, including gun dog handling, clay shooting, archery, fishing, falconry and ferreting.

Goodwood Festival of Speed

The Goodwood Festival of Speed takes place at the Goodwood Estate near Chichester and is motorsport’s ultimate summer garden party, an intoxicating celebration of the world’s most glamorous sport as you get close to the cars and bikes as they blast up the hillclimb track.

The Royal Windsor Horse Show

The Royal Windsor Horse Show runs from Wednesday through to Sunday and there are different equestrian competitions taking place on each day. Highlights for the showjumping include the Rolex Grand Prix which takes place on Sunday afternoon and the King’s Cup which takes place on Saturday evening. And there’s incredible shopping, obviously.

RHS Chelsea Flower Show

From Tuesday through until Friday this famous show is open from 8am until 8pm. The Chelsea Flower Show closes earlier on the final day, finishing at 5.30pm. Guests can browse a wide-range of garden designs, which are positioned outdoors and in the grand pavilion area. Prized floral displays are also on show and there is a shopping village, champagne bar and various areas for lunch within the show grounds.

Glyndebourne

Running from May to August each year, Glyndebourne is an opera festival that offers a programme of six operas. Glyndebourne is as much about the opera performances as the setting. Visitors can explore the beautiful gardens and the White Cube, which is a temporary art gallery, before arriving into the 1,200-seat indoor auditorium.

Henley Royal Regatta

The Henley Royal Regatta is undoubtedly the best-known regatta in the world, a highlight of both the summer sporting calendar and the social season. The regatta attracts thousands of visitors over a five-day period with more than 200 races of an international standard.

Launde Abbey

Open daily for morning coffee, lunch and afternoon tea

Why not start your walk or ride at Launde then reward yourself with a delicious lunch at the end?

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

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TRAVEL

CANADA, THE COLOSSUS

To see where Labradors, Newfoundlands and Chesapeakes originated from, visit Canada –a vast, stunning country with a varied landscape, cosmopolitan cities and amazing wildlife

Canada is a vast country, the world’s second largest by total area. It extends from the Pacific to the Atlantic and north into the Arctic Ocean. Because of its vast size it has a very varied topography including huge forests, large plains and, of course, the Rocky Mountains and Niagara Falls. Despite being sparsely populated it is highly urbanised with large metropolitan cites including Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver and Quebec. Hot summers and extremely cold winters are what it’s known for, as well as excellent skiing, fishing and spectacular scenery. Because Canada is so huge, when visiting it is probably best to concentrate on either the east or the west or you will be constantly travelling. Ottawa, Toronto and Montreal are well connected by train. Toronto is only 90 minutes from Niagara Falls, a must if visiting. Enjoy the French influence in Quebec, where it is the first

language. But if you wish to see the wilder side of Canada, head west to Banff and Jasper, both on the doorstep of the Rockies. And head to Vancouver Island where you can go whale spotting and enjoy the elegance of Victoria, the capital of British Columbia.

Another way to see Canada, and to travel coast to coast, is to go by train. There are many trips available travelling through the Rockies and across the vast plains.

For all Canada Tours, cruises and rail journeys contact Canada specialist, Destinations, who are based in Oakham. They have lots of offers with free home taxi pick-ups on certain tours plus free parking on all holidays. They are also Alaskan cruise specialists. Email ktatum@my-destinations.co.uk for the latest offers and find them on Facebook @destinationstravelagencies

HOW TO MAKE… SWEETCORN, BACON AND WILD RICE CHOWDER

This recipe is easy to make and absolutely delicious

To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and add another vegetable, such as carrots

Ingredients

75g wild rice

1 can (200g) of sweetcorn

1 knob of butter (about 15g)

1 large onion finely chopped

250g bacon, diced

1 stick diced celery

1 litre chicken stock

300g potatoes, peeled and cut into small cubes

150ml double cream

Salt and pepper

Method

Cover the wild rice with water in a saucepan, bring to the boil then simmer gently for 30 minutes.

Melt the butter in a saucepan and cook the bacon until well coloured. Remove from the pan and set aside. Add the onions and celery to the same pan and cook gently until soft, but don’t let them colour. This will take about 10 minutes or so. Add the stock and bring to the boil. Season to taste.

Turn the heat down and simmer for 10 minutes. Add the bacon, potatoes and sweetcorn and continue to simmer for another 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender.

Add the cream and bring to the boil before reducing the heat and simmering for another 10 minutes.

Drain the wild rice, rinse it under boiling water and then add to the chowder and heat through. Add more seasoning if desired and serve.

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GARDEN SOMEWHERE TO PUT YOUR FEET UP

Our gardening columnist, Teresa Kennedy, offers some tips about seating areas in your garden

It doesn’t matter if you have a garden, terrace, courtyard or rooftop, it is ultimately an extension of your indoor living space, and this column is designed to make you love it more. But where to start?

The first and best thing to do to incorporate your outside space into your life is to begin with somewhere to sit – it’s as simple as that. Pick out the best spots for sun basking, views and peace. Make these three separate areas if

you have the space. These will offer you a different perspective and experience every time you venture out. And then think about what type of seating is best for these places: a lounger, a chair and footstool, a hammock, bench, table and chairs? Make that decision, and now you can create…

BASKING

This is going to be mainly about the seat, but

THE HOUSE MARTIN

Sometimes mistaken for the swallow, the house martin is also a summer visitor from Africa, starting to arrive in early April and present at its nesting sites from the end of the month. The birds build their mud nests beneath the eaves of houses and will nest colonially. Most local colonies now comprise

think what else can help make you more comfortable. You need somewhere to rest a drink and a book, and possibly some shade for if it gets too hot. Approach your planting with heat in mind; hot colours, reds, oranges, yellows. Summer bedding really comes into its own here with its bright and reliable shot of colour. Next month I’ll focus on the best ways to use it.

VIEW

If you don’t have one, then make one. A feature tree, a collection of planted containers, a water feature, a sculptural piece... all of these are easy to do and provide a focal point for the eye.

PEACE

You’ve got to bring scent in, or movement, or sound, with delicate lighting. Remember, different flowers give off their scent at various times of the day. If it’s your morning coffee area, or your evening tipple seat, then your choices will be different. I adore the heady spicy perfume of dianthus and the simple sweet evening delight of honeysuckle; but the rose (try rosa ‘buff beauty’) is your classic performer, giving off a heady scent.

Movement and sound can be water, of course, but it can also be tall, floaty grasses. Miscanthus and pennisetum with their tufty seed heads will react to even a gentle breeze and offer a contrast to your more structured plants.

Lighting can be as simple as candlelight, which is probably my favourite because of its simplicity. But there is a huge choice of solar-powered options giving you the opportunity to drape string lights or strategically placed uplighters, which can create a beautiful setting and atmosphere.

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CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW

The end of May brings us the 2018 Chelsea Flower Show, where designers showcase their latest ideas. TV coverage is fabulous and it will definitely inspire you, so do take a look.

of fewer than 10 nests. A reliable supply of mud is essential for nest building and dry summers reduce breeding success. Some householders remove nests but this is illegal as occupied nests are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

Terry Mitcham

MEET HARVEY GARDINER

Kate Maxim chats to the designer of the Leicester Tigers’ heritage monument about players lost during the World Wars and plans for the Tigers Foundation

Active What is your association with Leicester Tigers?

Harvey I’ve always enjoyed rugby. I played for Preston Grasshoppers and Fylde while I was at Preston Polytechnic. More locally, I played with Old Bosworthians, which is now Leicester Forest, Oadby Wyggs and a bit for South Leicester. I’ve been a longstanding fan of the Tigers and always watch them when I’m at home, which is not a lot at the moment as I design museums and visitor centres all around the world.

I’ve been working in this field for 25 years and recently have been in New Zealand where I was in the final, with 46 designers worldwide, to design the New Zealand pavilion for the World Expo 2020 in Dubai, but I lost to the locals. Haka practice with the Maori was a very interesting experience! I was involved in the Dubai Museum @Al Fahidi Fort and more locally, my team designed the first King Richard III visitor experience, a temporary exhibition that had 800,000 visitors and was shown on live television in 36 countries. We designed it in a month with hardly any budget with the whole world’s eyes on us and thankfully there was not one spelling mistake in it.

I got involved with former player, captain and president Mike Harrison when I redesigned the Wheel pub in Oadby, which was a staunch Leicester Tigers pub for years, that then went into disrepair. It’s the Wheel Inn now and gives a potted time-line history of the Tigers and the Leicestershire regiment.

Chris Rose, head of brand at the Tigers, set up a time team to protect their heritage and history and to research those who played for them and paid the ultimate sacrifice, and I was delighted to be asked to be part of it.

Active Where did the idea for the Tigers monument come from?

Harvey I came up with the idea and the concept design and we hope to unveil it on Armistice Day to mark the centenary of the end of WWI, fund-raising permitting. If not we will find

another suitable date in the calendar. There were 47 players who played for the Tigers who lost their lives in the two World Wars. They weren’t all from the Leicester Tigers Regiment; Obolensky was in the RAF, for example. So lots of different regiments, people and families are linked together.

We also approached the Barbarians because of the close ties between the Tigers and the Barbarians with the Christmas games. There were 100 Barbarians who died during the conflicts, they came from all over the world and have no permanent ground. So we’re connecting everyone and recognising international communities, rugby and showing respect.

There’s more to the project than just the monument. We will also have an app linked to a website that will show the Tigers’ and Barbarians’ names, images and information about their backgrounds and achievements. We’re having to do a lot of research. The Tigers Regiment is now combined with the Anglian Regiment and a lot of different schools’ players went on to play for the Barbarians so they all need to be researched too. It’s a great story to get people inspired through education back into sport. We don’t want people to forget what the generations before sacrificed for us.

Active How much will it cost?

Harvey We have to raise £180,000 for the statue and a further £70,000 for the research for the website and the app linked to it. We’re waiting for a lottery grant but it’s mainly being funded by the Leicester Tigers Foundation, which is a charity, and – despite popular belief – doesn’t have lots of money. It has to fund itself.

We’re still looking for main sponsors and we’ve minted limited edition crowns for people to buy as a donation. For £110 you buy into the project and become part of history, as your name will be forever laser etched on to the base of the monument. So far 1,000 crowns have been minted, but we could mint another 1,000 if necessary. We also aim to produce a book about the project post launch.

Active Can you describe the statue?

Harvey It will be 27.5-feet tall. One tiger represents the regiment and the other tiger represents the club. The idea is that they are two fighting tigers and from above they look like they’re binding together and engaging. The little man is dressed as if in 1914, and is there to give you scale, and the fans will be able to have their photo taken with him.

Steve Winterburn is the artist. From my designs and the presentation book I created which details the theory and the concept behind it, Steve was able to create the maquette. We moved the pose around and tried different bases. The base we decided on is designed in an Art Deco style which was in vogue in the 1930s between the wars. It can be lit for different events in the evening and at 11am, with the sun in the right direction, it should cast a V shape for victory on to the floor.

We looked at various siting options and it will go to the right of the main entrance near to the new hotel being built next door to the Tigers’ ground.

We’ll cast it all in sections and weld it back together. There’s a long armature that runs from deep below ground through the foot up into the head and then splits off into a supporting cage; another armature will go through the tail so it doesn’t break off. Once it’s welded back together Steve will chase in all the detail on top so we don’t lose the quality of the movement.

Active What about plans for the future for the foundation?

Harvey This is an on-going project rather than just a figurative monument to the past. It expands forward to things such as the Invictus Games for injured personnel from armed conflicts and also to people with disability

resulting from sports, which involves the Matt Hampson Foundation. It will also link in with other things, such as women’s rugby which we want to promote. It’s about being positive about the present and future, inspired by the past. It will be a fantastic monument for rugby and for Leicester but also internationally as so many Barbarians players came from New Zealand, Australia, France, Samoa, Tonga and South Africa.

The team’s heritage needs to be conserved and there’s a whole project there that needs getting hold of. We want people to see what we’ve got stored in boxes so the foundation will be working on making that accessible.

I have also provided the concept to design an interactive space in the bar in the Mattioli stand. The space will change from a bar on match day to an education space with an interactive board to train people on the different elements of play.

Eventually we’d like to design a proper museum heritage experience but currently space is of a premium.

Leicester Tigers is a really active community club engaging with more than 50,000 members through a full range of programmes and events throughout the year.

The aim is to teach the disabled and ethnic minority groups independence and mobility skills through rugby, and the foundation delivers over a million coaching hours across eight counties, with a central focus on Leicestershire.

But we’re always looking at different ways of getting under-represented sections of society more engaged and involved in sport.

For more information about the Foundation, commemorative crowns or fundraising contact alec.brown@tigers.co.uk or phone 0116 217 1368.

THE FINISHING TOUCHES

Edited by Mary Bremner

NICE WEATHER FOR DUCKS

The wet spring has got everyone moaning, so why not brighten things up by investing in a stylish trench coat?

I probably should be writing about summer clothing by now but, with winter still very much in control, thoughts are still with wet-weather gear.

And by the looks of the way spring is going so far a good raincoat is going to be a necessary evil this year. And what better than a trench coat? Always a classic, they seem to be having something of a renaissance this spring so designers and retailers are probably the only part of the population who have greeted the wet weather with glee.

Enough of moaning about the weather, let’s concentrate on the trench. It’s a classic, usually in neutral shades, or navy, and about knee length with a tie belt that gives everyone an hourglass figure.

The Burberry is the absolute classic, but comes with a high price tag. Today the trench comes in all shapes and sizes, can be dressed up or down and is versatile enough to cross the seasons as well as socially.

Today trenches are everywhere in all different types of fabric. PVC is the fabric of the moment and can look really smart. You can invest in a classic that will last you for years or a more avant garde one that is bang up to the minute, trend-wise, and is a bit of fun.

And hopefully by the time you read this we will all be basking in sun and not needing a mac! Fingers crossed.

THE BENEFITS OF REFLEXOLOGY

In the fi rst of an occasional series, award-winning therapist Helen Mary Perkins highlights the benefits of complementary therapy

Complementary therapy, as the name suggests, can be used as a ‘complement’, or in addition to, more conventional medical treatment. Often based on centuries of traditional knowledge, therapies such as acupuncture and aromatherapy should not be confused with ‘alternative’ therapy which, some would argue, has negative connotations.

Of the many recognised and generally accepted forms of complementary therapy, one of the most popular is reflexology. Once known as press point or zone therapy, it works on the reflexes in the feet, hands, face or outer ear – sensitive parts of the body which are said to mirror various organs and areas of the anatomy.

Using fingers and thumbs to press on these tender or gritty spots alerts the reflexologist to your aching back or recurring headache. A highly experienced therapist can also use their intuition to identify problem areas.

In my own practice I offer a unique form of sound and intuition reflexology (Reflex Resonance Technique) which I developed in part after studying in Australia, where healing through sound is integral to the beliefs of the indigenous Aborigine people.

Reflexology has been shown to aid relaxation and relieve stress while also giving the feet some much needed TLC after being stuck in shoes that are too high or trainers that rarely get a proper airing. It

is not the same as a straightforward foot massage, although some massage-type movements may be incorporated. Regular sessions can improve mobility around a stiff toe joint, especially if bunions are a problem, while minor ailments such as sinusitis and indigestion can also benefit from this non-invasive approach. Aching neck and shoulders, from an intensive workout or too much time bent over a laptop, can also be helped.

As we put away socks and boots ready for the summer months and walks along the beach, the ancient art of reflexology, first practised by early Egyptians and later the Chinese, really comes into its own. If you are planning a pedicure to remove unsightly hard skin, take the opportunity to ask if your therapist can combine the treatment with reflexology to help relax you into holiday mood.

It has been well recorded that therapeutic touch of this kind can bring comfort and relief in many situations and even in the absence of any specific health problems a reflexology session with a qualified and experienced practitioner can leave you with a deep sense of wellbeing – almost as if you are walking on air!

To find out more, visit www.helenperkins. com or check out the Association of Reflexologists to find your nearest practitioner at www.aor.org.uk

Khaki suedette mac

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ACTIVE BODY

How to recover from a marathon, combat hip pain, find out how our challenges are going, and start your nutrition revolution

Edited by Steve Moody

HIP HOPE

Struggling with hip pain? Mr Araz Massraf, consultant orthopaedic surgeon at Avicenna Clinic, discusses a common cause and treatment

Pain in and around the hip is a common complaint – the pain could arise from the joint itself or from the tissues surrounding the hip including what is known as greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS).

GTPS is a term used to describe pain overlying the lateral aspect of the hip and radiating along the thigh to the knee, and trochanteric bursitis is the most common cause of GTPS. Bursitis is an inflammation of a bursa, a fluid-filled sac that functions as a gliding surface to reduce friction between tissues of the body. The hip bone has a bony prominence that can be felt on the side of the hip which is known as the greater trochanter. The trochanteric bursa is located over this bony prominence and it is the bursa that is most commonly inflamed around the hip.

Trochanteric bursitis pain typically occurs when sleeping on the affected side, upon getting up from a deep chair or after prolonged sitting (eg. in a car), climbing

stairs, sitting with the legs crossed and increased when walking, cycling or standing for long periods of time.

The trochanteric bursa may get inflamed by friction between the tendons against the hip bone. This may follow an acute injury, for example from a fall or sport-related impact trauma. However, it is more commonly the result of repetitive trauma to the bursa from sporting activities such as running, walking into fatigue, or cycling. Other factors which may contribute to the development of trochanteric bursitis include deformity of the spine (scoliosis), unequal leg length, weakness of the muscles with pelvic imbalance, inflammatory arthropathy (rheumatism) and degenerative conditions.

Trochanteric bursitis diagnosis is suspected during the clinical assessment including medical history and physical examination of the hip, pelvis and back. A hallmark sign is tenderness over the bursa

or greater trochanter (hip bone) when pressure is applied. The diagnosis is usually confirmed by imaging including ultrasound and MRI scans.

Most cases of trochanteric bursitis are self-limited and are treated by simple measures. In the acute phase, daily application of ice packs is recommended to reduce the pain and swelling.

Anti-inflammatory drugs, commonly known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (usually abbreviated as NSAIDs or NAIDs) are used primarily to treat mild to moderate pain associated with the inflammation.

Injection of a corticosteroid together with a local anaesthetic into the bursa may be required to relieve the pain and stimulate the healing response. It also will serve to confirm the diagnosis of bursitis if relief of pain is obtained after the injection. It is preferable to have the injection performed using ultrasound guidance to ensure accurate injection into the bursa.

Physiotherapy plays an essential role in the management of trochanteric bursitis. The hip joint is a very deep joint surrounded by almost 30 muscles. Physiotherapy aims to strengthen these muscles, increase flexibility, maintain range of motion of the joint and decrease the associated inflammation. Other treatment options include acupuncture and shock-wave lithotripsy.

In chronic resistant cases when conservative measures fail to relieve the pain, surgery may be required. The surgical techniques used may include excision of the bursa (bursectomy) or removal of the bony spurs (osteotomy).

It is important to recognise that trochanteric bursitis may recur following successful treatment. Engagement in a rehabilitation program to strengthen and condition the pelvic muscles, wearing appropriate footwear to support any biomechanical imbalance and addressing any weight issue may help to prevent recurrence of the pain.

Trochanteric bursitis is a common cause of pain lateral to the hip joint. The pain management requires a multi-professional approach. At Avicenna Clinic, we have a range of specialist consultants and a state-of-the-art imaging department including the only open MRI in the area to deal with all cases of acute and chronic pain quickly and to deliver tailored comprehensive treatment plans.

To book a consultation or for more information, contact Avicenna Clinic on 0330 202 0597.

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FIVE REASONS TO GET YOUR NUTRITION SORTED

In the first of a new series on eating better, sports nutritionist Dawn Revens looks at the five basic steps to eating well for better performance

In the years that I’ve been working with endurance athletes, I’ve noticed that they’re really, really good at getting their training plan sorted, but the nutrition bit tends to go in the ‘too hard’ box. It gets forgotten about, or maybe on race day they say “oh yes, I need to take a few of those gel things, and my friend told me that maybe two or three would be good”.

The race is the obvious time to think about fuelling but actually, the majority of the nutrition work needs to go on when you’re doing your training. The racing is at the end of the journey.

Let’s start by looking at five reasons why I think you need to be really serious about getting your nutrition sorted this year...

1. By eating well on a day-to-day basis you provide your body with all the nutrients and vitamins and minerals that it needs to build a strong skeleton, your blood gets well oxygenated and muscles are maintained,

repaired and rebuilt. This is the body that you take to your races.

2. By eating the right foods, you supply the right vitamins and minerals into your body that will help your energy pathways work properly. And let’s face it, when you’re training and racing you need quite a lot of energy.

3. Eating the right foods optimises your metabolic health and efficiency. This helps you burn fat at lower intensity and carbohydrate at higher intensities, helping you stay leaner and decreasing your risk of running out of energy and ‘bonking’.

4. You need to plan your race day nutrition and practice it in advance. It’s no good turning up on the day and just hoping that those few gels in your back pocket are going to work. They won’t. You need a plan tailored to you and your needs.

5. The final reason for getting your nutrition sorted is to help with your recovery. It’s important that you rehydrate, refuel and repair your muscles. If you don’t, you put yourself at greater risk of injuries and that’s not going to be great either for your training or on race day.

If your performance has plateaued, or you can’t get the results you think you should be getting, make this the year you sort out your nutrition to support your training and get the race day results you deserve.

Dawn Revens and her business The Compeater works with endurance athletes to optimise their nutrition so they can get amazing training and racing results. Her blogs will inspire you and give you some easy-to-implement ideas that you can take action on so that you have a fantastic race season this year.

MARATHON SESSIONS

Function Jigsaw’s Lauren Dobson tells you how to recover in the aftermath of a marathon

It has crept up on us extremely quickly, but marathon season has arrived. As a result, most of the marathon athletes are panicking because they’ve not done enough training, are not feeling confident and are cramming in the last few long runs before tapering their training up to the big day. However, your recovery after the race is just as important as the build-up.

Firstly, you need congratulating on completing your event. Not only is it the 26.2 miles on the day, but the training involved running up to the race is one big commitment to be proud of. It’s now time to recover suitably. If you get that right, the whole race will have been a complete experience for you as an athlete.

You have earned the right for some serious down-time and the ability for you to recover will determine the real long-term outcome.

Initially, there are a few simple steps to follow. Change your clothes and put on some loose footwear, as your clothes will be wet from either rain or the sweat and fluid released from your body, and your feet will be swollen.

Your body will immediately go from feeling very hot, to cold in a very quick time period. You will be cold and clammy so get a blanket on to prevent your temperature dropping rapidly.

Then, you need to put your feet up, because the body needs blood flow. Make sure you are stable enough to be on your own and lie on your back and put your feet up for 10 to 15 minutes.

While you are resting, you need to take on calories/recovery food. Your body has just lost an awful lot of fluid, nutrients, minerals, anti-oxidants and enzymes which

need replacing to help your blood sugars return to a normal rate.

However, take into consideration that during the race blood flow is pushed away from your stomach to working muscles, so it is important to give your digestive system some time to return to normal before you sit down and have a large meal.

Grabbing a bag of chips or fast food before going home to sit on the sofa can slow your recovery for days. Replace with a small amount of easily-digested carbs and protein either in the form of a solid or a liquid, little and often. Take snacks to the race with you and, if you can, arrange for someone to meet you at the finish line as you probably won’t be the only athlete that wants food in a hurry.

Once your stomach feels ready and has had time to recover, fuel your body with nutritious food and hydrate.

Next you need to look after your body. Realise whether you need to seek help or whether you can self-manage the strains that your body has just gone through.

Look after your injuries, treat your blisters, ice any inflammation, deal with any pain and get a light massage in the next 48 hours if you can – but make sure the therapist knows what you have just participated in so they are aware of what pressure is necessary.

If that’s not possible, self-massage will be effective but, once again, being gentle will be the key as the aim is to help your body relax, flush out the toxins and aid blood flow to enhance your recovery.

When you are back home or back at the hotel, relax, replenish, rehydrate and have a shower or bath. A cold or hot bath is proven to promote recovery.

A good sleep will be hard on the first night as you’ll be shattered but sore. Keep plenty of fluids beside your bed and keep your feet slightly elevated.

The following day is normally when the fatigue and soreness will start. We are still in recovery and while frequent rest is needed, total rest is your enemy. The tissue needs to repair and it’s important to stay active. An easy swim, a short spin on the bike, a casual walk or a very light jog.

No matter how good you feel, limit yourself to three to four miles maximum, providing you didn’t pick up any bad blisters or muscle strains. An altered gait on walking and running will create more harm than good so be sensible in your choice of activity.

It is important you can differentiate between acute injury and muscle soreness and if in doubt, seek professional medical attention. Light activity will improve circulation and help flush out metabolic waste, aid oxygen and nutrients flowing to your muscles again.

Initially it would be wise to avoid heavy stretching techniques especially if not warmed up, your muscles will be tight and delicate and over-stretching will lead to micro tears, light stretching when warm is advised.

Maintaining mobility, replenishing with good nutritious food, rehydrating, looking after your body and resting is the key to your recovery.

So when can you return to running?

The recovery phase is always underestimated and rushed with your drive to get back running and reach your next goal. Sticking to your recovery plan is crucial. Mobility exercises, stretches, self-massage tools or sports massage will help overcome the tightness and stiffness before you start running again once the body is ready for it.

When you return to full training protocols is purely down to your body, your level of activity, the stage of injury, your history and your personal needs.

Two main things to consider is to mix your activities. Involve a combination of sports to avoid the pounding impact on the ground and when starting to run again, start off on a flat incline, softer surface and begin at a lower intensity with slow progressions.

Interval training, swimming, cycling, deep-water running, yoga and pilates will all help mix it up and get you back on track.

Function Jigsaw’s therapists are available by calling 0116 3400 255.

FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE

Ash Routen has completed his challenge to walk across Lake Baikal. Here he tells us how he got on

On March 18, after 19 days, my team-mate Phil Sturgeon and I walked into the town of Severobaikalsk after completing our walk across a frozen Lake Baikal in Siberia.

At nearly 400 miles, the route we took is equivalent to walking from London to Edinburgh, or doing 15 back-to-back marathons, and to the best of my knowledge the successful crossing makes me the youngest Briton to have walked Baikal entirely on foot.

We had a truly amazing experience. The scale, extremes of weather, and creaking and groaning of the ice on Lake Baikal were mind-blowing. It’s an extremely beautiful place, and the Siberian people were so welcoming. It was difficult and humbling, and we now know a lot more about ourselves and our own capabilities.

We had many interesting moments and challenges including blister-ridden feet, disintegrating boots, locals plying us with vodka, a glimpse of a bear and bad weather days – it certainly made for the trip of a lifetime. To top it off, I was born in Salisbury, which is

named on my passport – so there were a few anxious moments when first hearing of the much publicised Skripal assassination attempt!

Departing from the southern shores of Lake Baikal at a small settlement called Listvyanka, we walked along the western coast of the lake, before negotiating an island, and finishing in

Severobaikalsk at the top. From here we took a two-day train journey across Siberia back to the city of Irkutsk and our departure point.

The train journey was quite an experience by itself.

Walking for 8-12 hours per day, we experienced temperatures down to -35C and below with wind chill. We consumed around 5,000 calories per day to maintain the necessary strength to pull the two sledges each, which contained around 80kg of supplies.

We walked across large areas of uncovered ice (no snow cover), and negotiated small sections of open water, as well as ice rubble formed by colliding sheets of ice.

We also stayed in a series of remote huts, and one morning Phil saw a bear slope in to camp near our hut, but luckily it was scared off with gunfire by a local ranger.

I hope you’ve enjoyed following our Russian adventure. I’m publishing photos and video from the trip on my website, so if you want to know more, head over to www.ashrouten.com.

I’m also getting around to local schools and charities to talk about our adventure, so if this is something that interests you, do get in touch via my website – I’d love to hear from you.

GO CHARLIE!

Racing driver Charlie Martin’s first race in the Ginetta GT5 Challenge is only days away

With less than a week to go, the first round of the Ginetta GT5 Challenge is literally round the corner. I’ll be lining up on the 36 car grid –hopefully not too far from the front – at Oulton Park.

The question I keep getting asked is, do I feel ready? My reply is a firm yes. The snow did cause a fair bit of havoc with a few tracks shutting down, but I’ve managed around 600 miles of testing in the last few weeks, which has definitely increased my confidence hustling the GT5 to the limit.

It’s very different to the cars I’ve raced in the last three years as it has no downforce so moves around a lot in the corners! It’s a huge buzz though when you have the whole car over the limit of grip, and I imagine the first race will feel pretty intense.

As well as track time, I’ve also been focusing on another key part of my performance – my fitness.

Richardson Racing has just set up a driver

programme with the Training Shed in Market Harborough concentrating on everything that affects our ability to perform under pressure. From diet and nutrition, to DNA screening and sleep patterns, it’s by far the most thorough and advanced approach I’ve ever seen and I’m seriously excited about hitting new fitness goals.

The DNA element is fascinating... we all have a pre-disposition to different types of exercise – some of us have more stamina, strength, quicker recovery time, agility, etc. By analysing your DNA it’s now possible to see exactly what the best areas are to focus on, and design a programme that’s scientifically tailored to you as an individual. It’s all fascinating.

One thing is for sure, the NGK liveried red and white Ginetta will definitely stand out, so if you tune into ITV4 you’ll hopefully see car number 71 pushing hard – please wish me luck and give me a cheer from the sofa!

www.gocharlie.co.uk

THE SHORT HOP

Harry Brooks reports from the second leg of The Clipper Round the World Race

The race from Sanya to Qingdao is short – 10 days, in theory, but it took us 13. But short does not mean easy. We had to deal with extremes of temperature from searing heat to just a couple of degrees above freezing. The route took us mainly with the currents around Taiwan, but the headwinds are in the opposite direction and with a water depth of only 20 metres in the Yellow Sea you are in for some choppy sailing! The waves were up to 20 metres high, the hull of the boat slamming down into the trough on the other side. We experienced the ‘perfect storm’ of a gust of wind, a huge wave and a downward angle of the boat, and so much water hit the sails that it ripped the staysail, leaving it irreparable. But we had one much more scary thing to negotiate, the notorious Chinese fishing fleets. Hundreds of boats, thousands of buoys, massive drag nets several miles long, lobster pots and markers. The sight of such a mass of fishing boats was incredible. For me it was another exhilarating ride, but not without its moments. I was sorting the ropes on deck when a wave hit. I lost balance and my elbow hit the deck first – and it hurt. Morphine injections and three days in bed, followed by light duties for a couple of days, was the result. Luckily, once back on dry land, a scan revealed no major damage.

The 28-day marathon to Seattle is the next stage, known as the ‘big one’ – 5,600 nautical miles across the North Pacific where, at half way, the nearest human habitation will be the International Space Station!

www.clipperroundtheworld.com

MARC WALLER

JAKOB EBREY

SUCCESS IN THE ARCTIC!

Simon Davies tells us how he got on in the cold in the first of three ultra marathons

I’m thrilled that I managed to complete the first leg of my Ice Desert Jungle challenge by successfully finishing the Ice Ultra – a 150 mile self-sufficient race through the Arctic Circle.

It was a brutal and unforgiving week with lots of snowfall and record low temperatures of -40˚C, making the event a challenging prospect for all the competitors. In the end only half the field completed the race, dropping out mainly due to terrible frostbite injuries. Somehow, I managed to finish in sixth place which I’m pretty happy with considering my lack of experience and not being able to train as much I would have liked before the race.

For me the hardest part was dealing with the solitude and the incredibly long days. Progress was difficult on the snow and the days would last anywhere between nine and 13 hours. This inevitably meant that most of the day was spent running alone without even being able to see any of the other runners. Only the checkpoints every couple of hours gave a chance to see a friendly face and help break up the monotony. I found I needed to divide the race into manageable chunks to be able to cope. One step at a time, one checkpoint at a time, one day at a time. While running I would play endless mind games working out the distance to the next checkpoint then breaking this down into segments – 25% complete, 50% left to go, etc.

For every kilometre I completed I would promise myself a small reward of something to drink or a bite of food. Every 500 metres I might change my pace or alternate between running and marching. In this way it was possible to deal with the distance ahead. But I also had to be careful not to simply wish the time away. It was all too easy to get into the zone, stare at the ground and tick off the kilometres one-by-one and not be aware of how lucky I was to be visiting this incredible part of the world.

At some point during every stage I would force myself to stop, forget about the race and just look around me to take in the incredible beauty of the wilderness. When I did this all I could see was an uninterrupted blanket of frozen lakes and snow covered mountains. Nothing man-made interrupted the view; no roads, no communication masts, not even a plane in the sky. Even the wildlife was non-existent. It’s rare to experience such total silence and isolation and it’s what I’ll remember most about my time in the Arctic.

Despite the incredibly low temperatures I mostly felt okay, apart from my hands. A couple of times during the race I lost all feeling in my fingers and had to bang them against my legs

and chest repeatedly to get the blood circulating again. Thankfully I’ve returned home a little battered and bruised, but pretty much in good shape.

The Jungle Ultra begins in May so I need to get back training soon and start organising the equipment and logistics for the next event.

The fund-raising for Rainbows Children’s Hospice is going well with RS Components coming on board as a partner just before I left for the Ice Ultra. Thanks in part to their generous support we’ve now raised an incredible £17,850, so my £25,000 target is finally starting to feel achievable.

www.icedesertjungle.com

TRAIN, TRAIN AND TRAIN

Mark Smith explains why he’s running from one end of the country to the other

The enormity of what I’m planning to do has really sunk in as training increases. I am thinking more and more about my challenge, and the boys who I am doing it for who suffer from the life limiting disease Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, for which there is no cure. Alex’s Wish, the charity I am raising money for, is raising funds to find a cure.

Over the last couple of months I have become physically stronger and learnt to run in a different style, and at a slower speed.

I have slowed my running pace down to 10 half minute miles, dropping 2.5 minutes off, with an even slower pace on very hilly routes. This has changed my running posture, stride lengths and breathing patterns, all to help run 895 miles in 30 days this September. Yes in six month’s time! We have received some amazing support and sponsorship – Uppingham School Sports Centre is the latest on board which is allowing me to use the facilities to train. It’s great to get support from the local community, particularly as the charity, Alex’s Wish is also local, based in Leicestershire.

https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/marksmith6

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COMING EVENTS IN STAMFORD

COMING EVENTS IN STAMFORD

DIARY NOTE FOR FORTHCOMING EVENTS 2018

DIARY NOTE FOR FORTHCOMING EVENTS 2018

Stamford Town Hall, St. Mary’s Hill, Stamford PE9 2DR E-mail: townhall@stamfordtowncouncil.gov.uk Web: www.stamfordtowncouncil.gov.uk

• Food and Drink Festival, Saturday 09 – Sunday 10 June on Meadows

• Stamford Town Hall Open Day Saturday 23 June Town Hall

• Stamford Festival Parade of Floats, Saturday 23 June starting on Recreation Ground

• Stamford Festival, Saturday 23 June – Sunday 1 July

• Mayor’s Sunday and Armed Forces Flag Raising, Sunday 24 June – All Saints Church

• Stamford Festival Family Fun Day – Sunday 1 July –Recreation Ground

• Music Festival, Friday 6 to Sunday 8 July on the Meadows

• Stamford Dog Show and Family Fun Day – Sunday 9 September on the Meadows

• Battle of Britain Parade & Service – Sunday 16 September Town Centre

• Autumn Fair Monday 08 – Saturday 13 October on Recreation Ground

• French Market, Sunday 14 October Town Centre

• Armistice Day & Remembrance Sunday – Sunday 11 November, War Memorial

• Stamford Christmas Festival and Lights Switch-On, Sunday 25 November Town Centre

If you require further information please contact: Stamford Town Hall, St. Mary’s Hill, Stamford PE9 2DR Tel: 01780 753808 E-mail: townhall@stamfordtowncouncil.gov.uk Web: www.stamfordtowncouncil.gov.uk

SHAVE 10 MINUTES OFF MY HALF-MARATHON TIME

AMY ROBERTS, ADVERTISING SALES

“Well, after what was a very long week with my husband having a knee operation, poorly children and lack of sleep, I knew this half-marathon was going to be a case of ‘mind over matter’.

On the Wednesday before the event I hurt my back, but thankfully Nina from Redlands Chiropractic Clinic squeezed me into her busy schedule to relieve the pain. I also used doTERRA deep blue rub to help soothe all the muscles.

I was prepped with my nutrition and warm-up routine thanks to my personal trainer Dani K, so I was determined nothing was going to stop me from getting to the start line.

The Rutland Water Half Marathon was a very well organised event with easy parking, and great communication before and on the day. We registered and got our chips and numbers with ease, stretched and warmed up in the rain but everyone was in great spirits despite the weather and were raring to go.

Counting down to 10am we were off.

Starting at the bottom of a hill was tough, but we got to the top and carried on the course from Whitwell around the peninsula and back.

The course was hard with lots of hills, but it was a fantastic sense of achievement to sprint downhill to that finish line with my running mate Paul Phillips, despite every part of me hurting.

A medal, t-shirt and lots of food and drink at the end was a good sight indeed. After leaving the finish tent we went to get the print-outs of our times and I couldn’t believe it – I did it in two hours 21 minutes, which is nine minutes quicker than my last halfmarathon time. I didn’t think I’d make it to the start, let alone finish and beat my time. I would like to thank everyone who supported me and listened to my moans and groans.

Is there a second challenge of the year? I’m not so sure, but maybe by the time of our June issue I might have come around to the idea of a new one!”

Climbing back to the top of the eventing ladder

JULIA DUNGWORTH, EQUESTRIAN CORRESPONDENT

“With the cancellation of our next run, Gala and I managed to sneak a cross-country lesson with Caroline Moore at Vale View. This was a first for me and only the second cross-country lesson of my life.

Gala took it all in his stride and really impressed Caroline with his boldness and his willingness to jump between the red and white flags. However, his exuberance can still make distances very short, so after a conflab we agreed that we should teach him to take life a bit slower and that I should continue to run him slowly so that we can achieve our ultimate goal of Blenheim 8 & 9 CIC*** next year.

Then it was on to Belton for his first big run. Finally the weather was on our side and despite all our blizzard training through the winter, he still behaves much better when there is no wind. Belton was amazingly still and he produced his best test to date for a score of a 34, with still so much more to give as I felt that I rode him too politely.

The showjumping was a little disappointing, having

an early rail made him shoot off and caused him to be a little flat collecting another two rails. On to the cross-country, where Caroline’s lesson earlier in the week made him a lot calmer and rideable for a lovely clear over a very tough track.

Gala jumps very powerfully over fences so we also decided after seeing the above photo from Belton that maybe it was time for a new hat as I spend half my round one handed pushing out it of my eye line – well it was my birthday after all!”

WANT TO TAKE UP A CHALLENGE?

Just email steve@ theactivemag.com with the subject line ‘TeamActive Challenge 18’ with what you are planning to do and when, and then we’ll give you some dates when we’ll need short monthly updates, and we will feature you in the magazine, and hopefully give you some much needed inspiration to keep going! It can be a fitness, wellness, sporting or self-improvement goal – we’d love to hear about your challenge.

LOSE HALF A STONE AND DO A PARKRUN

KATE MAXIM, EDITORIAL AND PRODUCTION ASSISTANT

“I did it. Hooray! I’m so pleased, particularly as the last few times I’ve been running I’ve pulled a muscle in one or other of my calves. I suppose I should have warmed up a bit more, but – rookie error – I didn’t do much of that.

So I’d never gone more than two-and-aquarter miles without stopping before the Saturday when I took the plunge and took part in the Rutland Water parkrun.

It’s a simple concept: parkruns are held at 9am all over the country, manned by volunteers and you can walk, jog or run the 5k. With the help of a barcode to zap you in and out, your time is recorded within a few hours on the website along with details of any previous runs.

People of all abilities take part, some with dogs, some with children running or in pushchairs and the atmosphere is really friendly and inclusive. As the course at Peterborough was under water, there were record numbers (364 participants!) in Rutland which was a sight to see.

I had my friend Emma and her two children Daisy and Fliss in tow for support and it was invaluable. My target was to complete the course in under 35 minutes without stopping, which is obviously a doddle for many of the people there – they barely looked out of breath, but as a complete beginner to this running lark, it wasn’t easy for me.

Once I’d rounded the bollard three quarters

Halve my handicap

STEVE MOODY, EDITOR

“Through the winter on the golf course, when it’s cold, and the ball plugs in mud and there’s a wind that would send a polar bear indoors by a roaring fire, you can excuse yourself for not scoring well.

Thing is, the weather has improved so the ball is flying through the air further, and is running when it lands too, while the greens are becoming more consistent. Now, there’s no hiding place.

Over the past month, I’ve had an average score of 85, which in itself doesn’t exactly sound like I’m about to be ripping it round in 76 or 77 any time soon.

But the work I’ve done with Mark Jackson at Burghley is definitely paying off. I have a swing which now uses all of my body, and I’m in a much better position at impact, the result of which is I’m hitting the ball way straighter, further and more consistently than I was.

If I may be so bold, I feel like I’m hitting it like

of the way along the dam at Rutland Water, that was psychologically encouraging, but I did find the last third of the route particularly challenging.

Emma was brilliant at encouraging me to keep going at a suitable pace so in the end I managed to complete the course in 31 minutes and three seconds. What a relief! I would never have achieved that without the box fit classes and training with Andy Chambers from Fighting Fit in Gretton as my fitness levels have improved so much.

Unfortunately I haven’t lost half a stone, but I’ve lost a few pounds and toned up so I’m happy with that. I’d like to say I’m keen to do the run again and improve on my time, as it was such a positive experience with a great community spirit but, right now, I’m not too sure. Watch this space.”

TRY A TRIATHLON

CHRIS MEADOWS, PUBLISHER

“Training has been full-on for the past month – I’ve been swimming, running and cycling three times a week. There are times when I leave work and wish I didn’t have to head to the pool or don my trainers, but afterwards I’m always glad I did. The weight continues to drop off, which seems to be making things a little easier.

Now the weather is improving I’ve been able to get out on the bike on the road. I’ve managed to complete training runs of the distance for all elements of The Dambuster: a 1,500m swim, 42km bike and 10km run. It’s now a case of being able to do all three consecutively, on the same day.

I’ve been back to see Mary Hardwick from Inspire2Tri, who worked on my running style. It’s been a revelation thanks to some simple technique changes. Spurred on by the success of Kate and Amy completing their challenges, I took part in my first Rutland Water parkrun. My time was 23m 10s for the 5km route across the dam; I surprised myself with the result. I’d be unlikely to maintain that pace for 10k but it warranted a high-five from Mary afterwards.

Nutrition is something that I’ve continued to focus on with Dawn Revens from The Compeater. She is keen to ensure that I’m eating enough protein, and especially after training to aid my recovery.

a golfer who could get down to single figures.

Then comes the ‘but’. Those scores in themselves are OK, if not spectacular, but there is a hidden statistic which might shed more light on my plight. In those four rounds, I’m averaging 36.75 putts (I can’t bear to round it up to 37). As an example of the problem, I had an 82 in one round, with 39 putts.

Now this could be a function of not getting close enough with my approach shots and giving me long first putts, but I know speed is my issue, and specifically lack of it: getting the damn thing to the hole which in turn leaves horrible second putts.

As the old saying goes, ‘drive for show, putt for dough’, so this month will be dedicated to practising poking that ball along the ground. How hard can it be?”

As I’ve been diarising all my food it’s easier to track if that’s the case or not. I’ve changed my eating habits considerably and I am managing to stick to the new regime the majority of the time. Everyday life sometimes prevents and I’ve not cut out alcohol completely, although I have tried to limit it to weekends.

While I was with Dawn she carried out a body composition test with her equipment. Dawn is one of the few facilities in the country where the test can be carried out. The kit allows her to compile a much more accurate result than an off-the-shelf version.

Despite all the training, my BMI didn’t show a favourable result – in fact the majority of the outcomes weren’t great but I’d like to think there would have been a big difference between when I started to where I am currently.

We have also discussed an ideal training weight. I’m 4kg away from where I need to be so more training and healthy eating ahead. Bring it on.”

ACTIVE SPORT

Leicestershire cricket’s candid new head coach Paul Nixon tell us his ambitious plans ● Will’s Walks ● Leicester-Shire and Rutland School Games ● The football and rugby seasons draw to a close

The Empire strikes back

Martin Johnson is unimpressed with the Commonwealth Games, and has some suggestions to improve them...

There are certain sporting events which can raise your pulse rate to dangerous levels, and there are others which make you wonder whether your pulse is still registering. I’ve tried, I really have, but I’ve never been able to shake off the feeling that a Commonwealth Games golf medal is only marginally more prestigious than bagging first prize in the school egg and spoon race. I realise that not everyone feels this way, and it was only prompt administration of the smelling salts that brought me round after watching several thousand people jumping up and down with excitement at the clay pigeon shooting. Why? You’d need the eyes of a sewer rat to see a clay take off, and the only clue that someone has hit one is when there’s a puff of smoke.

However, the hardest evidence that the Commonwealth Games is an event somewhere at the bottom end of the sporting food chain, is the fact that it’s on the BBC. A sure sign, given that the Beeb’s entire sports budget is kept inside a biscuit tin, that noone else wants it. The games just ended on Australia’s Gold Coast is an event which began in 1930 as the British Empire Games, when half the globe was covered in red.

Of the 71 countries taking part, some are so small that anyone practising their hammer throw is liable to run out of island and lose it in the sea. Nauru, for example, covers an area of eight square miles, and now makes a living out of housing turnedaway Australian asylum seekers.

Then there is Norfolk Island, a pinprick in the South Pacific that might still be undiscovered if Captain Cook’s lookout had nodded off for 10 minutes, and which has one roundabout and one set of traffic lights. And, brace yourself, no McDonald’s. Like Nauru, they are medal no-hopers, with the games dominated by Australia, England and, a tad surprisingly, India.

If there is one thing the games have in common with the Olympics it is the inclusion of so many events that masquerade as sport. Things like synchronised diving. It’s skilful, no doubt, but what’s it doing at a sporting event?

Personally, I’d chuck out anything that required a judge. Which means gymnastics. Jumping up and down on a trampoline for a gold medal? It’s a kind of grown-up version of the bouncy castle. And another thing to get the chop would be the shot put. Whoever hit upon the idea of calling this a sport? And where does it come from? Maybe it dates back to the ancient Greeks, when the Spartans were about to scale the ramparts, the cannon was on the blink and someone heroically caught the baddies’ cannonballs and threw them back at them. Using a technique that could barely propel it far enough to prevent all your toes getting squashed. And then there’s netball. OK, I know England won a gold

medal. Hoorah! Give them an open topped bus ride around Trafalfar Square. But come on. One stationary girl lobs a ball to another stationary girl, and it eventually arrives unapposed inside a semi circle in which two designated people are allowed to try and throw it through a hoop. It’s about as exciting as watching a game of pass the parcel at a kiddies’ party.

However, I have a plan which will elevate the games to the world’s most prestigious sporting event. It involves chucking out the likes of netball and synchronised diving and replacing them with the kind of events which will grab the public imagination.

Did you know, for example, that there is a world pea shooting championship? It’s been going since 1971, and is held annually in the Cambridgeshire village of Witcham. I’ve never seen it, but it surely can’t be as boring as clay pigeon shooting.

And how about chess boxing? Which is just as it sounds. You move your bishop, or rook, call check, and then you jump off your stool and plant a right hook on your opponent’s nose. Or the high heel race. It’s normally for drag queens in Washington DC, but you could tweak the rules, making it OK for the men to run in a vest and shorts rather than a wig and a cocktail dress. It’s hard to know which would send Clare Balding and co into a bigger lather of excitement. This, or the World Wife Carrying Championships, held in Finland since 1992. The absolute blue riband event, however, will be modelled on the Tunarama Festival held in Port Lincoln, Australia, which is a competition to see how far someone can throw a frozen tuna.

But the one thing guaranteed to send the ratings through the roof will be to get rid of those opening and closing ceremonies.

A sun-kissed paradise was the theme of the opening ceremony, and in marched the athletes to the kind of weather than prompted Noah to build his ark. Oh, and I’ve been to the Gold Coast, which is tackier version of Blackpool. As for the closing ceremony, a series of bigwigs delighted with the sound of their own voice emptied the stadium long before the end.

Then there’s the expense to consider. With 390 athletes and 198 support staff, the England party sent to the Gold Coast was the largest ever sent from home shores to any sporting event, comfortably eclipsing the 2016 GB Olympics team, and all at a cost of £5 million of taxpayers’ and lottery money.

Under my plan, however, we can shave about four and half million off that – and the cost of turning the water cannon on the animal rights activists should more than be outweighed by the saving on a support staff consisting of no more than a couple of patriotic fishmongers.

 Martin Johnson has been a sports journalist and author since 1973, writing for the Leicester Mercury, The Independent, The Daily Telegraph and The Sunday Times. He currently writes columns for The Rugby Paper and The Cricket Paper, and has a book out called ‘Can I Carry Your Bags?’.

TOP STAT

The River Welland which passes through Market Deeping is the old course of the river, with the bulk of the Welland actually flowing through the Maxey Cut.

MAXEY AND MARKET DEEPING

A surprisingly rural route along the River Welland in Market Deeping makes this an unexpected gem for Will Hetherington

Photography: Will Hetherington

THE ROUTE

I parked on the eastern fringe of Maxey along the main road as it heads out towards Northborough, but you can park anywhere in Maxey as the route brings you back all the way through the village.

Just before the last houses on the right, the footpath heads out diagonally on the left across the fields towards Deeping Gate. Head out on this clearly marked path and you will soon come to the horse paddocks around Fox Cover Farm. Follow the signs and take care crossing the A15, then keep heading east, crossing Lincoln Road which was the old A15 and then coming to Deeping St. James Road.

This first section is across flat arable land and, apart from the two roads, is surprisingly peaceful and features some typical fenland big skies. When you get to Deeping St. James Road turn left

and carry on until you get to the bridge over the Welland in Deeping Gate.

Just before you get to the bridge, and unseen until you reach this point, there is a footpath off to the left. Take this path which runs all the way along the southern bank of the Welland as it passes through the Deepings. Initially you will have a row of attractive older houses on your left but after you pass Deeping High Locks it starts to open out and you will soon be in a more rural setting, even though Market Deeping is just over the river on your right.

There’s a surprisingly rural feel to a footpath which essentially goes through the middle of a town. Keep following the path and you will recross the old main road just south of Market Deeping Bridge. When you cross the road here there is an option to take a shortcut back to Maxey by bearing left and picking up a farm track which will have you back in Maxey in about 20 minutes but you will be missing out on a lovely stretch of the walk if you do. So I recommend you keep right and follow the path

as it meanders along near the south bank of the Welland.

You will walk underneath the new A15 and only here did I find a disappointing reminder of the proximity to a bypass and urban laziness in a pile of recently fly-tipped bathroom and kitchen fittings. But that memory was soon overshadowed by the idyllic view of a Water Mill and its gardens from the other side of the river.

With a number of small footbridges dotted around crossing the various tributaries there is more than a touch of the impressionist in this vista and it was another pleasantly unexpected feature. From the mill, keep the river on your right and head south-west for a mile until you come out on Mill Road in Maxey.

Turn right here and, when you almost immediately get to the impressively grand Maxey Mill, turn left on the footpath which takes you into Maxey Lakes and fisheries. You will soon come to a clear left turn down a wide path which will take you back into the village and you can make your way back to your car from here.

©CROWN COPYRIGHT 2018 ORDNANCE SURVEY. MEDIA 027/18

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

Where to park

Anywhere in Maxey near the Blue Bell pub or further along the main road as it leaves the village on the eastern edge.

Distance and time

Five and a quarter miles/an hour and three quarters.

Highlights

The surprisingly rural route along the south bank of the Welland through Market Deeping. The water mill on the western edge of Deeping, Maxey Mill and some fenland big skies.

Lowlights

If you feel the cold I wouldn’t recommend this walk with a cold easterly. Some unsightly fly tipping near the A15 at Market Deeping.

Refreshments

Take your pick in Market Deeping, and the Blue Bell in Maxey has a reputation for good beer.

Difficulty rating

Two paws. It’s flat and, provided it’s not been raining too much, very easy under foot.

The pooch perspective

You won’t see a lot of livestock on the way round and it’s by the river for more than half the walk so your dogs will love it.

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

Clockwise, from above

Maxey Mill; the River Welland between Maxey and Market Deeping; Deeping High Locks

KING’S NORTON AND BURTON OVERY

One of the most striking churches in the area is the standout feature of this gentle rural stroll. By Will Hetherington

Photography: Will Hetherington

Difficulty rating (out of five)

THE ROUTE

You can park anywhere on the road near the church in King’s Norton. Then head south out of the village on the road and take the footpath on the right after about 50 yards.

From here the path passes through a series of four grazing fields as it bends round to the south. At the bottom of the fourth field you will come to the junction with Gartree Road. This was once part of the Roman Road known as the Via Devana which ran from Colchester to Chester. But you will only be on it for a matter of seconds because it’s a quick left/right turn to pick up the footpath

TOP STAT

St. John the Baptist Church in King’s Norton is a Gothic Revival building started in 1760 and completed in 1761 by John Wing the Younger of Leicester. The spire took another 14 years to complete.

Below

The stunning St John the Baptist Church in King’s Norton is an architectural gem

which heads south to Burton Overy. But even in that brief section you will cross Burton Brook, a nice little stream for the dogs to have a decent dip.

When the dogs have cooled off it’s only another 10 minutes to Burton Overy. You can have a little wander around the village if you are feeling curious, but if not you take the first left turn you come to on the northern edge of the village, which heads out eastwards towards Burton Overy Lane.

It goes gradually uphill for half a mile before reaching the lane but you stay on the field side of the hedge for another 200 metres before crossing the Roman Road again. Then turn left on to the clearly marked Byway which heads north to King’s Norton. From here it’s a straight line for about a mile back but, with a good contour or two along the way, it’s a decent opportunity to stretch the legs and get your heart pumping.

Once you return to King’s Norton you can explore the inside of the church if you are of an ecclesiastical bent.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

Where to park

On the road anywhere near the church in King’s Norton.

Distance and time

Three and a half miles/an hour and a quarter.

Highlights

It’s claimed that St John the Baptist Church in King’s Norton is the most beautiful church in the whole of the Midlands and ‘one of the finest parish churches in the whole of England’. You can be the judge of that but it’s definitely an impressive sight. And the Roman Road conjures up some interesting thoughts. For instance, legionnaires were expected to be able to march 24 miles in five hours.

Lowlights

It’s not the longest of walks but you can extend the route.

Refreshments

The Bell Inn at Burton Overy.

Difficulty rating

Three paws. It’s quite undulating and muddy in places.

The pooch perspective

You cross the Burton Brook twice so the dogs can cool off on a warm day. There are sheep on the way round so you will have to keep them under control.

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

GRAN FONDO

The second part of the Tour of Cambridgeshire-inspired route.

This month, we bring you the second part of our Tour of Cambridgeshire Gran Fondo-inspired route. Last month’s route traced the first part of the Gran Fondo race; this month, we include sections from the second part of the race, starting in Peterborough and heading south towards Alconbury, then back up via Pondersbury and Norman Cross. Get route notes and download a GPX file for your GPS computer at https://ridewithgps.com/ routes/27274466. Enjoy the ride!

WHAT IS THE GRAN FONDO?

The Tour of Cambridgeshire Gran Fondo is a closed-road cycling event taking place on Sunday 3rd June 2018. Being the only closed-road cycling race of its kind in the UK, we are privileged to have the Gran Fondo right on our doorstep. Whatever your ability, you can take part in the Gran Fondo and feel like a pro for the day, with the route completely free of cars, plenty of feed stations along the way, and the crowds cheering you on!

There’s an event for everyone, from the full 79-mile Gran Fondo race or sportive, where the top 25% in each age/gender category qualify for the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships, through to the Mellow Velo, a relaxed-pace sportive, and the Family Fondo, with distances from 4-12 miles and a winners’ medal for everyone who completes the course.

Distance

52 miles

TOUR OF CAMBRIDGESHIRE TRAINING RIDE

If you’re thinking of taking part in this year’s Gran Fondo, or are training for a sportive or challenge ride, then join Rutland Cycling’s Sally Middlemiss and Tour of Cambridgeshire founder and champion cyclist, Malcolm Smith, for a led training ride at a steady pace (12-15mph), along our featured 52-mile route. This training ride is free to join and places are limited, so advance booking is essential.

When: Sat May 12, 10am start

Where: Rutland Cycling Peterborough, PE2 5UU (parking available).

Book at: www.rutlandcycling.com/rides

THE ROUTE

● Start point: Rutland Cycling Peterborough, PE2 5UU (parking available). Exit the store and at the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Oundle Rd/A605 0.1 km

● At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Oundle Rd/A605 0.0 mi

● Turn left onto Bullock Rd 3.4 mi

● Turn right onto B660 9.6 mi

● Turn left onto Bullock Rd/ National Cycle Rte 51 9.6 mi

● Turn right onto Milking Slade Ln/National Cycle Rte 51 10.2 mi

● Continue onto Chapel End 11.4 mi

● Turn left onto Back Ln 11.8 mi

● Continue onto Winwick Rd/B660

12.0 mi

● Turn left to stay on B660 15.2 mi

● Turn left at Main St 15.4 mi

● Turn right 18.3 mi

● Turn left at Hamerton Rd 18.4 mi

● Turn left onto Buckworth Rd

20.0 mi

● Turn left onto North Rd 20.5 mi

● Continue onto Vinegar Hill

20.8 mi

● Turn left onto Walton Hill/B1090

23.8 mi

● Turn right onto Bridge St 24.2 mi

● Continue onto The Green 24.7 mi

Slight right onto Raveley Rd

24.8 mi

Turn left onto Huntingdon Rd

27.8 mi

● Turn left onto Ramsey Rd 29.1 mi

● Continue onto Longholme Rd

29.3 mi

● Continue onto Ugg Mere Ct Rd

30.5 mi

● Continue onto Herne Rd/B1040

32.7 mi

● Turn left onto B1095 35.4 mi

● Turn left onto Wrights Drove

37.4 mi

● Turn right onto Straight Drove

37.8 mi

● Continue onto Main St 39.4 mi

● Turn left onto Broadway/B1091

39.8 mi

● At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Mere Vie 41.1 mi

● Continue onto Main St 41.7 mi

● Turn right onto Church St 42.5 mi

● Slight left onto Waterslade Rd

42.9 mi

● Continue onto London Rd/A15

43.1 mi

● Turn right onto Roman Rd/ National Cycle Rte 51 44.0 mi

● Turn left onto New Rd/National Cycle

Rte 51 44.0 mi

● New Rd turns slightly left and becomes Haddon Rd/Route 53

45.7 mi

● Turn right onto Route 53 46.8 mi

● Turn right onto Bullock Rd

48.1 mi

● Turn right onto Oundle Rd

49.2 mi

● At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Ham Ln to complete the route

TOUR OF CAMBRIDGESHIRE CYCLING FESTIVAL AND

CAMBRIDGESHIRE BIKE SHOW

JUNE 1-3 AT PETERBOROUGH ARENA

75

The Tour of Cambridgeshire Festival is an annual fixture for thousands of cyclists across the UK and beyond. Rutland Cycling have been retail partner of the ToC since 2015 – the largest cycling festival in the East Midlands. This year the festival will see the addition of the Cambridgeshire Bike Show, organised in partnership with Rutland Cycling and Golazo Cycling, with more than 50 exhibitors including the world’s top cycling brands showcasing their products and services, including Specialized, Trek, Scott, Cannondale, Bianchi, Cube, Whyte, Frog, Brompton; with clothing and accessories from Endura, Kask and Chapeau, Oakley and Lezyne.

Entry to the festival is free, so a great opportunity to bring the family along for an exciting weekend of cycling events, with latest products from the world’s biggest brands on display, plus exclusive offers - a fantastic weekend, with a carnival atmosphere designed to bring everyone with a passion for cycling together. With over 12,000 cyclists taking part, ranging from professionals, ex-professionals, club riders and beginners. Add some medical support, pit stops filled with volunteers serving snacks, energy products and drinks, completely traffic-free roads to ride on and the Bike Show and you’ve got all the ingredients to create an amazing Tour of Cambridgeshire Festival!

Cycling events over the weekend start on June 2 and include, The Gran Fondo Race and Sportive, Mellow Velo Ride, Tour Classic, Team Chrono and Family Fondo - a great spectacle to see, cheer the riders and soak up the atmosphere. Rutland’s team will again be on hand in the Chrono warm-up area, providing and managing the turbo trainers for riders competing in the individual and team time trials – the vibrant humming sound of turbo trainers fills Peterborough Arena and adds to the exciting build up to the start of the racing.

Want to get the family into cycling and be part of the cycling events? Join the Family Fondo - a fun event for families and beginners. Held on a traffic free circuit, with three distance choices: 4 miles, 8 miles and 12 miles. The event is accompanied by a DJ playing motivational tunes. Tour of Cambridgeshire medals will be presented to all children completing their distance. To find out more and book places visit: www.tourofcambridgeshire.com.

DON’T MISS! RUTLAND CYCLING E-BIKE DEMO DAY

MAY 28 AT RUTLAND CYCLING WHITWELL

Free event with over 50 electric bikes available to test ride in a safe, traffic-free location.

When: May 28 10am to 4pm Venue: Rutland Cycling Whitwell, Rutland Water, LE15 8BL

Cost: Free of charge, but pre-booking essential

To Book: For more information and to book a place visit: www rutlandcycling.com/rides

For more information contact: kathy.yallop@rutlandcycling.com 01572 737624 ext 51

BRONZE FOR FORMER OAKHAM DUO AT COMMONWEALTH GAMES

Old Oakhamian Kathryn Lane and Ellie Watton were part of the women’s hockey team which secured England’s 100th medal at the Commonwealth Games, after their 6-0 victory against India.

Kathryn, who left Oakham School in 2013, has been representing England for many years now.

She was playing and captaining the U18 squad while at Oakham, and then moved on to play and captain the U21 squad before being invited to join the senior squad.

Ellie worked as a PE teacher at Oakham for four years while also training and playing internationally. Ellie taught Kathryn before she left to focus full time on her hockey career and to take up her place on the GB squad, as a travelling reserve, for the Rio Olympics.

“Oakham hockey continues to go from strength to strength – with our players winning key titles and medals across the world,” said director of hockey, James Bateman.

“It’s particularly heart-warming to see Kathryn and Ellie stand side-by-side together on the pitch – showcasing the exceptional talent we have at Oakham, not just our students, but also our coaching and teaching teams who pass on their exceptional skills and knowledge to inspire future medal winners.”

Kathryn and Ellie now return, with the England squad, to focus on the World Cup which is being held in London this summer at the Olympic Park. With a Commonwealth Games bronze medal now under her belt, Kathryn also has her eye on the Olympics.

She has been named as part of the Centrally Contracted Squad in preparation for Tokyo 2020 and if she reaches her goal, she’ll be following in the footsteps of another Old Oakhamian, Crista Cullen, who won gold at Rio.

Everybody at Brooke Priory School took part in the ‘Sport Relief Mile’ this year on a variety of courses.

The younger children headed for Brooke Priory House in the village of Brooke to tackle a course through farm land, which was undulating and sticky under foot. The older children were inspired by the support of former pupil Mathilda Holland, a school crosscountry captain and current county athlete, who returned to run with the children in the prep department.

SPRATTON SUCCESS

Spratton Hall had a clean sweep of gold medals at the Warwick cross-country relay competitions last term.

Spratton Hall’s years 3,4,5 and 6 girls’ cross-country teams all managed to come first in their age groups.

JUNIOR TIGERS TAKE OVER AT SAINTS MATCH

Staff at Welford Road handed over the reins to young Leicester Tigers fans as youngsters took over matchday roles around the ground for this season’s annual Junior Tigers Club Takeover Day.

More than 20 Junior Tigers went behind-the-scenes at Leicester’s Premiership fixture against local rivals Northampton Saints.

The club welcomed the youngsters from across the East Midlands to take on matchday roles as a photographer, reporter, social media assistant, stadium announcer, kitman, DJ, interviewer and designer.

Dom McGeever, marketing and promotions executive at Leicester Tigers who runs the Junior Tigers Club, said: “Each season, we give

lucky youngsters the chance to go behind-the-scenes and get as much out of the Takeover Day as possible.

“A huge well done to all our winners and a big thank you to their parents who helped. The Junior Tigers Club has over 40,000 members and offers access to the club’s VIP area on matchday with plenty of activities for all.”

Oakham School’s Elli Watton and Kathryn Lane at the Commonwealth Games

LEICESTER,

1,500 PUPILS TAKE PART IN BURGHLEY RUN

Celebrated as a major annual fixture in the Stamford Endowed Schools’ calendar, the Burghley Run was held in March bringing over 1,500 pupils from all three schools together at the same time running the same route.

Pupils from Stamford Junior School were joined by boys and girls from Stamford High School and Stamford School all starting and finishing in the same place with different routes designed for different age groups.

The run takes place on a specific route around Burghley Park and whilst it is a test of endurance and determination it is, more importantly, a celebration of the enjoyment of outdoor sport and running in the stunning surroundings of Stamford.

Director of sport for the Stamford Endowed Schools, Mark Nasey, said: “The Burghley Run is a fantastic example of pupils coming together as one to enjoy sport no matter what age or ability.

“We believe that sport at the Stamford Endowed Schools can play a significant role in the overall happiness, health and well-being of all our pupils, which is so central to all we do here.

“To learn the enjoyment and reward that can be gained from a healthy lifestyle from as early as reception years can be hugely beneficial in later life.”

REGIONAL SUCCESS FOR DEEPINGS

Deepings Swimming Club enjoyed a successful weekend at the East Midlands Regional Championships, making 18 finals, winning two medals and breaking one club record.

Standout performances came from Isabel Spinley and Bethany Eagle-Brown. Seventeen-year-old Isabel brought home gold in the 100m butterfly and silver in the 200m butterfly, while Bethany Eagle-Brown, 15, produced a club record in the final of the 100m freestyle, finishing just outside the medals in fifth.

The squad of 16 swimmers also achieved 24 long-course personal bests at the championships, which were held at Ponds Forge in Sheffield on April 14-15. The second weekend of racing takes place on May 7, shortly after the age-group championships for younger swimmers on April 28-29.

Ten swimmers qualified for

finals in their events:

• Holly Leggott in the 100m and 200m backstroke

• Jessie Spooner in the 200m butterfly

• Harry Cardell in the 200m butterfly

• Bailie Harrison in the 100m butterfly

• Isabel Spinley in the 100m backstroke, 200m IM, 100m & 200m butterfly

• Bethany Eagle-Brown in the

200m IM and 100m freestyle

• Tom Adams in the 100m and 200m butterfly, and 200m IM

• Lorna McGill in the 200m breaststroke

• Louis Metselaar in the 100m freestyle and 200m breaststroke

• Kallum Penman in the 200m butterfly

Also representing Deepings at the championships were Emma Wilde, Lexy Cooper, Jake Jungmann, Thomas Neal, Joseph Lund and Kelda McKnight.

Head coach Lynn Chapman said: “We took a strong squad to the first weekend of the Midlands competition and the team produced some outstanding performances. I was particularly proud of Lorna McGill and Emma Wilde who were competing in their first regionals. Both came away with excellent personal bests.

“Once again, Isabel showed

why she is one of the country’s most promising young swimmers with her two medals, while many of our other swimmers have a chance to join her on the biggest stage at British nationals later this year if they continue their strong progress.”

Isabel was competing at the championships fresh from her latest selection for Great Britain at the international open meet in Marseille on April 6-8.

The Deepings ace competed in four races. She finished third in the 200m butterfly A final, second in the 50m butterfly B final and was eighth overall in the 400IM. Isabel also made the A final for the 100m butterfly as the sixth fastest qualifier.

Lynn said: “It’s the second time Isabel has been selected for Great Britain and she did both the club and herself proud with her performances.”

Above

SES principal Will Phelan and SJS head Emma Smith with some of the younger pupils who took part in the run

Above

The Deepings squad

Lower School Saturday 19 May 2018

Middle School Saturday 28 April 2018 and Saturday 9 June 2018

Upper School Saturday 12 May 2018

School Boys & Girls, age 4-13 Boarding & Day

Feeder school to Oundle, Uppingham, Oakham, Eton, Rugby, Repton & others

Witham Hall, near Stamford withamhall.com

GENERATION GAME

New Leicestershire CCC head coach Paul Nixon talks to Chris Meadows about building a new generation of cricketers at the club and plans for the season

Photography: Neville Chadwick

Chris Meadows: How’s the job going so far? Are you enjoying it?

Paul Nixon: I’m loving it! I was really surprised as to what it has involved. We don’t have a director of cricket, so in a way I’m almost doing two jobs.

It’s a great honour and responsibility. Taking the job at Leicestershire is like going home, but it’s refreshing how much the club has changed off-field since I’ve been away. Financially, the club is in a brilliant place and I think we’re the only club that has made a profit for four years on the trot.

The new floodlights are in and there are more ground developments planned. It’s exciting off the field, which is wonderful. It’s time now that we reflected that on the pitch. One of the mantras at the club is to be the hardest working in a caring cricket environment. Everything we throw at the lads they love, embrace and take on board. We’ve been working with psychologists to explore character insights in order to understand how players communicate, looking at areas of strength or where possible development is required.

CM: Player development is very important to you. How is that going?

PN: People from Leicestershire want to see Leicestershire players coming through the system. I get 10 emails a day from people who want to come and have trials. Getting the academy pathway programme right is key. We want to bring our own youth players through a lot more, so it’s an area we’re really focusing on.

There are 250 kids in our age group programme. It’s exciting, the talent is amazing. The lads have had a tough time over the last few years, but it’s really made them stronger as a group. It blew me away how together they all are, which is really amazing.

Now we’ve just been tweaking things and have been looking to get some high-class coaches in too. Matt Mason had been a pro at Worcester for 17 years, he’s a high-class bowling coach and has been been working with the

England fast bowling program this winter with the likes of Zak Chappell, which is exciting. He’s a professor of his industry now. To have him, along with Tom Smith, a new up and coming coach, adds great value to the coaching group.

CM: I hear you’ve been pushing the players hard in pre-season. What does that involve?

PN: Tuesdays we have a fatigue session, it’s a hard day for the players – heavy lifting in the morning for an hour, where they might do five sets of three weights, the heaviest they can lift, five sets across the whole body. Then we come in and they do a 30-minute batting session split into 10-minute chunks. In one net I’ve got Matt Mason bowling with a flicker, at up to 94mph. We use indoor balls, the yellow ones, which are not quite as hard as a cricket ball, so if it hits you it hopefully doesn’t break anything. In another net there’s a prowler, a big sled type contraption with weights on it. In the middle net we’ve got a spin net. Bowlers aim for shower mats, which help exaggerate the turn and then in the final net we’ve got a left arm over bowling at up to 85mph, swinging the ball in to the batsman. When they’ve come out they’ve got a skipping rope or a medicine ball against the wall. Ten minutes in each net all with the heart rate monitors on.

Every time any batsman is out they all have to run a six. Every couple of minutes we shout ‘prowler’ and the guy in the spin net has to push it, whilst the other batters are boxing or running on to a crash mat.

CM: That sounds horrible! What’s the thinking behind it?

PN: I know. It’s to highlight decision-making skills when players are under pressure and fatigued.

As coaches, we go into a character to build the pressure on them too. It’s normal to see heart rates anywhere between 188 and 210 for 30 minutes, so it’s hard work. We’ve all felt the benefits.

CM: How do you see the 2018 season panning out then?

PN: It’s a squad I’ve inherited, and quite a big squad, but I’m quietly confident for the 2018 season. We need to win cricket matches though. Leicestershire has always been a good side in one-day cricket so if we could get close to T20 finals day and a one-day competition finals place that would be a good achievement.

CM: You know what’s required on the pitch as a player, does that help you get the most out of the players?

PN: Yeah, absolutely. I speak to Stuart Lancaster, the ex-England Rugby coach who I’m very close with, quite a bit too, and we’ve talked about breaking the coaching role into thirds; leadership, management and coaching. Having played I know what it’s like, and takes, to be in the mix and compete at the highest level. As a player I know where they are in their journeys, the biggest challenge I have is being able to step back and set my boundaries and those of the team.

CM: You’ve already named a couple of players; who do you see standing out this year?

PN: Michael Carberry, the captain – I believe he’s in a good space, he’s going to have a good year. As long as he starts well, he’ll fly. I believe Dieter Klein’s going to have a top-class year. We’ve really worked on his mind-set, his routines and just tightened his batting up a little bit. He’s very exciting, swings the ball back in at 90mph, he’s got a good bouncer too. He ticks every box, I promise you he is an amazing guy. He’s gone through a lot mentally the last few years but he’s in a really good space now, mentally and physically, so that’s good. I think he’s going to have a good year. I think Callum Parkinson is going to have a good year as well, and the same with Richard Jones, we’re going to see the best of him. Gavin Griffiths is a young lad coming through, he and Matt Mason have just clicked. He’s grabbed everything that Matt’s offered him, and he’s seeing great results.

CM: You mentioned local player Zak Chappell as well, what are your plans for him?

PN: Zak’s got great ability, he’s been earmarked by the ECB for their fast bowling program, although he currently lacks experience. He’s got a natural gift, he’s a good, tall lad, he’s strong and enjoys the gym so he’s a good physical specimen.

He’s a genuine all-rounder and hits the ball seriously hard without even trying. I see his role as a dynamic one, with short, sharp, explosive spells.

CM: County cricket seems to be facing a lot of challenges attracting crowds. What are Leicestershire doing to encourage more interest in the longer format game?

PN: There have never been the crowds at county cricket because people have to work. We’re trying to schedule matches over weekends to help bring people to the ground.

Ultimately, we want to build strong foundations at the club. The county has been very proactive about that as well. We’ve had great support from David Wilson, our president, and the banks too.

CM: Is there a temptation to build a squad designed to compete more in T20s rather than the longer format matches?

PN: No, we want to be in the first division. My long-term vision is about the culture at Leicestershire, creating a culture that’s the hardest working.

We want to be the table at the wedding where everybody else wants to sit. I want The Fox to mean as much as the All Blacks Legacy, to be as much as the SAS. When you come in to be a Fox, it’s very special.

That’s where we’re going, it’s going to take time but I want that to be in place in 50 years’ time. We want to be the best of the best. We’ve

got to work harder, be more honest and our attention to detail has got to be better than everyone else. It’s an exciting journey for the club to be on. We want to be the forefathers and make our predecessors proud, that’s really important. I’m asking ex-players to come and talk to guys about what it meant to them to be a Fox. We want to make sure that the foundations that we set in place are still being driven.

CM: How are Leicestershire encouraging more participation at grassroots level?

PN: At Leicestershire we now have hundreds of schools coming through our doors on a daily basis, whether they come to look around, have an indoor school session or go in the gym.

We’re often having meetings and all of a

sudden 30 kids come and knock on the door of the boardroom, which is good fun. We’ve got to show them how fun cricket is, that’s what it’s all about. It’s getting boys and girls involved at a young age.

We see how well England girls are doing. There needs to be a lot of money put into English cricket in the girls’ section and in women’s cricket, and rightly so. Cricket is a deeper thinking game than the likes of rounders which is offered at school. I’d love every school to get rid of rounders and play cricket instead.

The more we can bring kids to first class grounds, make them see the pace of the game, make them have fun the better. Coaches have a huge role to play in making it a safe environment, making it fun and keeping the cohesion of their unit, making them feel like they’re part of a community.

CM: Do you have any general tips you can give to club cricketers?

PN: Keep it simple. Some of the things that we look at are, ‘Do you have a back lift?’, ‘Are your hands just above your hip?’, ‘Is your head going towards the non-striking batsman?’ and ‘How’s your balance?’. Your first option is to look at the best play and if you can do that consistently and you’ve got good ability then you’ve got a chance.

For bowlers, it’s about straight lines and alignment. Running in relaxed, with your hands relaxed, just like you’re out running. Have one ball that you can go to under pressure. Some bowlers try too many things.

Keepers, it’s about making sure that you read the height of the pitch. Don’t be too low, have your hands about shin height as the ball’s being delivered and then you can move. Have a mental routine every ball and expect every ball to be an edge so it’s not a surprise when it comes to you.

CLUB TIES

As our local cricket teams start this year’s campaign, Jeremy Beswick brings us up to date with developments during the close season in our A-Z (or to be honest, B-U) club-by-club guide

BILLESDON

Billesdon’s aspiration for this season is for both senior sides to be promoted, according to the club’s Paul Miles. The second XI particularly deserve to fulfil that promotion wish, having escaped relegation in a dramatic last match of the 2017 season only to find out when the new season’s fixtures were published – without prior warning – that they’d gone down after all due to a newly-formed club joining the league and replacing them in their division (see Ketton).

A traditional village side with most of their players living locally, they’re one of the most successful around of that ilk, competing in Division 2 of the Leicestershire & Rutland League and having been in the semi-finals of the National Village Cup in their time as well – or

“one step from Lords,” as Miles put it, adding “We’re a local community-based club”.

BURGHLEY PARK

Burghley Park has recruited young Kiwi George Holmes for the forthcoming season and are hoping for great things from the 18 year-old all-rounder. “To be honest, the club had a largely disappointing time of it on the field last year, mostly down to player availability,” said bowler James Biggs, “so we’d like the first team to be in the top third of the table this time around. The seconds and the Sunday side were both relegated so they’ll be looking to bounce straight back”. As ever, a highlight of their – and everyone else’s – season will be the ever popular Sixes cricket week festival at their quintessentially English ground.

KEGWORTH

Kegworth finished a very creditable third in the Premier League last year and will look to kick

on from that success this regime. Jordan Holmes continues to lead the 1st XI and overseas player Brent Williams is vice-captain. Charles Morris takes charge of the seconds in Division 4 West, who will be looking to improve on last year’s fifth place finish. The thirds under Daryl Cockerill were also fifth – in Division 9 – and share the seconds’ ambition to go one better this time around.

KETTON

The good folk of the village will have two first XI sides to watch next season, not one, as Rob Vitas’ band of talented minstrels break out on their own as Ketton Sports CC, playing alternate Saturdays on the same ground as the existing Ketton CC, who were Cambs Division 1 winners last year. The most tactful explanation we’ve heard for the split is there was a difference of opinion as to how the club should develop –with the best possible first XI populated partially by talented incomers, or as a village

club where the local juniors have a realistic chance of progressing into the side. That difference proved irreconcilable. As the new club puts it: “Relationship breakdowns and disagreements do happen in life,” and that sometimes “things stop working”. It’s not for us to take sides, but don’t expect Billesdon’s second XI to be cheering.

KIBWORTH

Kibworth’s facilities are probably the most extensive and impressive around and they are fully justified in considering themselves one of the area’s elite clubs. Expect to see players on the fringes of the Leicestershire county side regularly guesting for the first team. Having finished second in the Premier Division last season, they’ll be fired up to win it this time around –a title they consider theirs almost as of right. Rob Taylor, once of Scotland and Leicestershire, has arrived to help from...

MARKET HARBOROUGH

Market Harborough who, as well as losing Taylor as their director of cricket to Kibworth, have a new first team captain. Their mainstay for many years, Joe Gordon, has decided that he’ll have insufficient time to devote to the role as he’s getting married this year. Although Joe will still be playing, the reins of skipper will be picked up by Tom Leonard. Tom started appearing for the side last season and will combine his role with being cricket development officer at Leicestershire CCC. The captain’s job will be of increased importance and have more responsibilities following Taylor’s departure. Harborough have one of the prettiest grounds around and, with a newly refurbished clubhouse and bar, it’s a great place to watch cricket. It’s also got a particularly vibrant junior section under Mick Ingram.

OAKHAM

Oakham struggled last season, partly because of a lack of outright wins as many opponents opted not to chase the total posted by their all-star batting line-up on their motorway-like track. The club’s Malcolm Rawlings expects them to be helped this season by the new league rules which reward what would have been ‘winning draws’ last year with more points. While the batting line-up has been weakened by the withdrawal of Calvin Flowers with a back injury, the return of Ed Tattersal who’s been away playing grade cricket in Australia will be a boost to the bowling – as will the signing of Shaun Morris from Sleaford. Malcolm describes Morris as “quickish” – which is fast in anyone else’s language. Sounds just what the side need.

OUNDLE

Oundle have a new chairman in the form of Andrew Radd and will also be joined for the new season by ex-Northants and Glamorgan pro James Kettleborough as player/coach, and by Liam Fresen, a 19-year old seam bowler from

South Africa. Director of cricket Ben Smith said: “With myself, new recruit James and, of course, Merwe Genis who returns for his 20th year at the club, I believe Oundle’s players, young and old, have an unrivalled opportunity to develop their games.”

STAMFORD

Stamford’s first XI captain Tom Williams helped them to promotion last year and they will now be playing in the Cambs & Hunts Premier. Tom told me: “It’s a step into the unknown as we’ve never played at this level before. The key will be our home fixtures – we were unbeaten here last year – and we believe if we play to our ability we can give anyone a game.” He’s looking to youngsters such as Alex Birch, Ben Peck and Scott Chamberlain “another year older and another year wiser” to help them consolidate their place, alongside the older hands such as Liam Dave and Andrew Hulme.

UFFINGTON

Uffington continue to thrive and will have a third team this year, only a few years after establishing a second XI. The new Saturday team will play in the South Lincs and Border League 2 and will be a development squad for youth players and an opportunity for occasionals to take to the field. James Genever, who runs the side, said: “It’s six years since we started the juniors and now they are ready for the step up. Alongside them will be adults who want to play a bit of cricket without making a huge commitment.” If you’re a junior or adult looking for some relaxed league cricket, call James on 07813 199434. On a Sunday in the Rutland League, the firsts will looks to cement their position in Division 2, while the seconds were promoted to Division 3 West, which has some quality teams in it. Survival will be seen as a success.

UPPINGHAM

Uppingham will also play at the highest level in their history in the Leicestershire Premier after yet another promotion. Secretary Claire Cox told me: “We’re very excited to be there and, although we can’t announce who yet, we’ll be strengthening the side in preparation, especially the bowling. I think the boys will be happy to stay in this league and consolidate at the new level in the short term. Come down and join us to enjoy great cricket and warm hospitality.”

YOUR CLUB

Lastly, Y is for your club. Not mentioned? If you’d like to be included in our monthly Cricket Round Up feature, starting next month with a dealine of May 21 for all copy, please get in touch with jeremy@theactivemag.com

The George and Dragon, Seaton

This quintessentially English village pub has undergone a complete transformation, with three months of hard work creating an interior that is best described as snug country pub with an industrial twist – think bare brick and luxurious tweed, enhanced with thoroughly modern metal accents such as the spider web light fitting that illuminates the main bar.

The downstairs area has been extended to include a welcoming sitting room completed with cosy armchairs and a piano – the perfect place to while away

an evening with a good bottle of wine. Ralph has put his wine knowledge to good use, creating a comprehensive drinks list including over thirty wines, as well as a selection of local ales, lager and spirits that ensures there is something for every taste.

Upstairs, luxury awaits in the form of three individually themed guest bedrooms; Pheasant, Stag and Hare. Each has its own unique, elegant look which is coordinated down to the last mug and towel, and complemented by extra little luxuries such as Moulton Brown

toiletries. One thing that the rooms all have in common are stunning views over the picturesque Rutland village of Seaton, with the village church and rolling hills beyond creating a perfect panorama to wake up to in the morning.

However, the main attraction is the new fine dining menu, masterminded by chef Omar Palazzolo. After seventeen years spent working in some of London’s best kitchens, including Nobu and Tom’s Kitchen, Omar has big plans for his own menu at the George and Dragon. He describes his take on food as ‘purist’, with

a focus on simple flavours and quality, locally-sourced ingredients which offer both great taste and nutrition for the body and soul! Expect a creative, ever-changing selection of dishes with influences from many of the cuisines that Omar loves, from modern Italian to Japanese.

The George and Dragon is undoubtedly the perfect country destination for anyone looking for a great meal, a warm reception and a good drink. Ralph looks forward to welcoming you through the door!

FOOTBALL Daniels faltering at the finish

BY DEAN CORNISH

OVER THE PAST FEW MONTHS, Stamford AFC have been imperious in their pursuit of the play-off positions that could lead to promotion back to the Evo Stik Premier Division.

They’ve held a place in the top six for months, and at times looked like they could even challenge for a top two position and automatic promotion. However, just when it really matters it looks like it could be falling apart for Graham Drury’s men. After looking superb in the winter months, a poor April means Stamford could finish outside of the top six come the end of the season.

April started poorly with a goalless draw away at Spalding, with the Daniels dominating against a side intent on spoiling the game on a boggy pitch. Drury’s men just couldn’t capitalise on their possession once again, and drew another blank in front of goal, which has been the main issue all season.

Following that, the Daniels had another derby draw, this time away at a foggy Corby Town (1-1) with Corby equalising with just three minutes to go. Derby draws can be forgiven, but the next two games against basement dwellers Loughborough Town and Romulus you would expect to yield six points.

However, a 1-1 draw with Loughborough was followed by capitulation against bottom side Romulus who dominated the Daniels and won 3-1. Daniels manager Graham Drury was handed a new longer

term contract a few weeks ago, and since then it seems Stamford are in free fall. If they do make the play-offs, the semi-final will be on May 1 (probably away) and the final on May 5 (likely also away). If they don’t, there will be an inquest that is likely to centre on the goals scored column. Too few goals, and numerous strikers that haven’t worked out, will be the main cause of ire amongst the Zeeco faithful.

One division below in the United Counties League Premier Division, Harborough Town are now in eighth place and remain out of form. The Bees were thrashed in their last league game (6-1) away at Leicester Nirvana, and drew their previous two games against Deeping Rangers and Eynesbury Rovers. Harborough did beat Kirby Muxloe at the end of March, but preceding that lost four games on the bounce.

In the UCL Division One, Blackstones have dropped to seventh after a worrying dip in form. Blackstones were the division’s form side until recently, but defeats to Harrowby (3-0 at home), Olney Town (2-1 away) and a draw against Rushden and Higham mean that French/Clarke have their first managerial ‘crisis’ to contend with. Let’s hope they turn it back around and potentially challenge for the title come next season.

In the same division, Oakham United’s mini revival continues. The Tractor Boys had a disastrous campaign until recently, but recent wins against Thrapston (2-1) and a whopping 9-1 thrashing of Buckingham Town have boosted morale. Oakham remain in the bottom two, but at least there has been something to cheer during the spring after a horrific winter.

In the Peterborough League Premier Division, Stamford Lions have fallen out of the title race now, after recent defeats to Moulton Horrox and Thorney, and a draw with Peterborough Sports Reserves. It’s still been a good season for James Sheehan’s men, and they’ll be pleased overall with a third placed finish if they can stay ahead of Whittlesey Athletic. Favourites for the title are now Netherton, although Moulton could still catch them with a perfect end to the season.

Ketton have dropped to 12th in spite of good recent wins over Sutton Bridge and Leverington,with both those games seeing Ketton score five goals, which bodes well for the new season. Ketton are still looking for a new first team manager for next season.

Stamford Bels remain in mid table in Division One, recently having lost 4-0 to Moulton Horrox reserves. The Bels have made a cup final though, after a 3-0 win against FC Peterborough in the semi-final. The Bels will certainly be well supported in the final, and I suspect the bar may do well out of it too. Exact details of the final to be confirmed soon.

Graham Drury has been given a new, longer-term contract at Stamford

Roundup

Tough times for Stamford as Stoneygate continue to build

BY JEREMY BESWICK

CONGRATULATIONS ARE DUE TO Stamford’s youngsters who have enjoyed an outstanding month. Their under 10s not only had the opportunity to play at Tigers’ Welford Road in the Prima Cup but also emerged victorious in a competition that had started with 70 rivals. Not to be outdone, the Colts also had a stirring victory over Sleaford; Jonathan Buck with the winning try.

Those good news stories would have been very welcome at Hambleton Road as it’s been a difficult season for the first XV. Only Pinley lie beneath Stamford in the league table, but they showed that they’re not to be taken lightly with a surprise victory over promotion hopefuls Market Harborough.

Alas, they were unable to build on that performance, going down to Stewart & Lloyds and then to Oadby Wyggs in their next two fixtures to leave them mired at the bottom of the table.

The defeat to Stamford rather took the wind out of Harborough’s sails in their valiant pursuit of Oadby Wyggs and Luton for one of the top two league slots. However, the club were defiant: “Supporters and players alike will share the pain this evening but we’ll move on stronger, battle hardened and more resolute for future encounters.”

Nevertheless, the loss meant that, realistically, they had to defeat table-topping Oadby away in their next fixture to keep their promotion hopes alive – a tall order. Wyggs took first blood with a converted try within the first 10 minutes but Harborough came back with one of their own through Ed Parker after Josh Purnell showed good awareness with a quick tap penalty.

After another Harborough try was somewhat unluckily disallowed, Wyggs added a penalty to make it 10-5 at the interval.

The home team was to add two more tries in the second period without response but the final score of 24-5, according to 1st XV manager David Nance, “did not reflect the closeness of the game,” although he acknowledged that “the win was deserved”. He added: “So for this season Harborough’s push for promotion is almost certainly over as, although mathematically possible, it would need some unrealistic results to go their way.”

Their last home match of the season was against Oakham who, having been rather chastened by a 64-7 defeat at second-placed Luton, having “lost our

travelling legs once more,” according to club president Steve Beanland, had nevertheless recovered from that trouncing to beat Market Bosworth the weekend afterwards and thereby ensure they would not be relegated.

As Nance noted: “With Harborough no longer in the promotion hunt and Oakham well above the relegation places there was little to play for except the annual bragging rights of these close rivals.”

Ed Sumpter’s try put the hosts into the lead within a couple of minutes of the start but Oakham came back to 7-5 as Will Armstrong went over, somewhat against the run of play.

There then came a period when Harborough dominated possession and Sumpter was to score again with Josh Purnell adding his second conversion to make it 14-5 and a third try from Laurence Joel gave them what appeared to be a comfortable cushion.

Yet a switch of positions in the Oaks side had an immediate positive impact on their play and they pegged it back to 19-12 at half time with Henry Wills’ try. To be that close at the break was a very creditable performance from a weakened Oaks side with nine changes from the previous Saturday.

They were to go one better and draw level through Jimmy Rossillo whose try was converted by Callum Crellin, before the match was transformed by the withdrawal of Oaks’ hooker Martyn Stimson with an injury.

That led to Harborough dominating the scrum which in turn eventually resulted in a yellow card for their prop after a number of scrum penalties.

Although Stimson was to return to the field he was clearly not 100% fit and Harborough then rather ran away with things; Purnell, Joel and Purnell again breaching Oakham’s defence to make it at 38-19 at full time.

Stoneygate continue to build firm foundations at Uppingham Community College in what is their fifth campaign at their new home.

Club captain Cillian Brugha told me they’d had a good year and will finish second in Leicestershire Merit B although, alas, that’s not a promotion slot at this level of rugby.

“We’re also through to the Leicestershire President’s Cup final and, having attracted several new recruits at the beginning of the season, are enjoying playing more RUGBY

TIGERS TALK

Jeremy Beswick hears tributes paid to club legend David Matthews as he celebrates his 81st birthday

Tigers’ season has been full of the usual trials and tribulations and last month included a particularly disappointing local derby result for the dedicated fan.

Who would have guessed that, after a five-match winning streak, they would contrive to lose at home to the club with the worst away record in the Premiership – Northampton Saints – for the first time in 11 years.

It was even a much-weakened Saints side, who then also lost their captain to injury in the opening seconds and one that had conceded 48 points without reply in the second half of their previous match.

At times like these it’s a relief to gain some perspective in spite of the inevitable frustrations that come with the territory of being a rugby supporter, and remember how fortunate we all are to be part of such a great club with an amazing heritage.

As the cliché has it, form is temporary but class is permanent and there is no classier Tiger than David Matthews (pictured).

A farmer born in Barrow, five miles from Oakham, he appeared 502 times for the first XV from 1955 to 1974 – a record that still stands today – and scored 119 tries, which is a spectacular return for a flanker. He also served as

coach and club president.

To mark his 81st birthday in April, Ian ‘Dosser’ Smith and a small group of other ex-players took the cameras down to see him.

As he’s known as ‘the legends’ legend’ it was fair enough that Dosser opened by putting it to him: “You are regarded by us all as the greatest Tiger of all

games – around 18 as opposed to 12 last time which helps build continuity and consistency,” he said.

The club’s mini and juniors section is thriving, with around 160 kids on Sunday mornings which will stand them in good stead in the future, although currently the oldest are only 13 so it will be a few years yet before they start to filter into the first XV.

Bourne have had a tremendous season and, despite losing narrowly to St Neots 16-15, put themselves back into contention for the title by giving Stamford College Old Boys a right tonking – 96-7.

Adam Binns and George Venables both got hattricks but it was scrum-half Sam Evison who was named man of the match, having scored 26 points with

time,” to which Matthews responded: “No, we’re not having that sort of language if you’ll excuse me. I’m part of a wheel that’s still rolling and it’s been rolling for a long time and it’s always going to continue. Yes I was part of that wheel but no bigger a part than Peter Wheeler, Gary Adey – you name it.”

He continued: “At Tigers football club you have your strengths, you have your weaknesses, but there’s that something there, underneath the ribs, that gives you – at times when the chips are down – that little bit extra when it’s needed... Tigers were a very difficult side to beat because when it got down to it we didn’t bend the knee. We wouldn’t give in”.

An eloquent summation of what Tigers are all about from a true gentleman.

Club chairman Peter Tom put it perfectly, saying: “He gave his all, as a player and a coach, and he remains a highly influential figure at the club, epitomising all that is so special about the Tigers.”

There is no better antidote to the disheartening feeling that follows one of those disappointing results that are bound to come our way from time to time than to watch the video, which you can find in full at the club wesite.

the boot and covered every inch of the pitch. Wherever the title goes in the end they are sure of promotion.

Just missing out below them in the table are Deepings, whose chairman Micky Pearce summed up their year by saying “on the whole it has been a successful season throughout the club,” noting how the first XV’s form has improved markedly since November and that they are still in the running for two cup competitions.

Up a few levels in National League 2, South Leicester are set to finish mid-table and will be delighted to see Leicester Lions a couple of places below them after the latter’s season tailed off somewhat with four consecutive losses at time of writing.

THE PETERBOROUGH SCHOOL

29 MAY - 1 JUNE, 9 JULY - 13 JULY, 16 - 20 JULY, 23 - 27 JULY, 30 JULY - 3 AUGUST, 6 - 10 AUGUST, 13 - 17 AUGUST

STAMFORD JUNIOR SCHOOL

9 JULY - 13 JULY, 16 - 20 JULY, 23 - 27 JULY, 30 JULY - 3 AUGUST, 6 - 10 AUGUST, 13 - 17 AUGUST, 20 - 24 AUGUST

BROOKE PRIORY SCHOOL 23 - 27 JULY 30 JULY - 3 AUGUST

EQUESTRIANISM

Belton gets the season going

BY JULIA DUNGWORTH

FINALLY THE EVENT SEASON feels like it has got underway with a sudden change of weather, which timed perfectly with Belton International.

I have to admit I was one of the sceptics – as I drove in to Belton first thing on the Friday morning I was greeted by a stream running across the road and then had a half-hour wait to get in to the lorry park. However, Stuart Buntine and his team had made an amazing job of re-routing the course and with Belton’s loamy land, it made for the best (if not one of the only) event of the year so far!

As usual the Grantham Cup drew in some of the best horses in the country, many of which are aiming at Badminton. Jonty Evans on the crowdfunded Cooley Rorkes Drift were the very worthy winners, finishing on an impressive score of 32.40, narrowly beating Burghley runner-up Piggy French on Vanir Kamira, who finished just over one penalty behind.

There is a new co-efficient being used in the dressage this year, which also caused much confusion as this made riders’ scores lower.

Locally, Willa Newton had a good run on Chance Remark. Eliza Stoddart riding Priorspark Opposition

Free finished in an impressive eighth place in the other CIC3* section, beating Richard Jones on Alfie’s Clover into tenth.

What a fantastic day for Burghley Hunter Trials, which ran on the last weekend of March. Again there was a very short break in the weather to produce by far the best ground all season and the sun shone all day for more than 200 competitors. Lily Dodds had a fantastic result, winning both the 90 and 100cm classes for Burghley and Issy McEuen also won the Open 110cm on Murf.

As this year is the Burghley Pony Club’s diamond anniversary, they will also be running a black tie ball at Wittering Grange on October 27 for all members family, friends and supporters with the proceeds going to the new water complex which will contain water falls, fountains and even flamingos!

Harry Lee, son of vet Roger Lee from Tower Equine, won 138cm and under Novice Race at The Pony Club Raceday at Ascot on April 5 after having their first run of the season the week before at Cheltenham. Harry and Grey Janice also won the best turned out prize.

Kelly Davies from Stamford has put last year’s run of bad luck behind her to win the KBIS British Riding Club Winter Championships held at Arena UK on her own Cruising Rocks. They put their best foot forward to win on a very convincing 72.96% for Howden and District RC. Kelly won various prizes including a sash and proudly got to do her first lap of honour! The combination then carried on the lucky streak to win their first British Novice at Elms Farm the next day.

We have a few local riders heading down to Badminton this month, namely Simon Grieve on Drumbilla Metro, Richard Jones on Alfies Clover and Emilie Chandler on Coopers Law. We wish them all the very best of luck over one of the toughest courses in the world – please keep an eye out for them and show them your support.

Willa Newton in action in the Grantham Cup at Belton

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HOCKEY

Promotion for Dragons’ seconds

BY STEVE MOODY

IT’S BEEN A GREAT MONTH for Bourne-Deeping Men’s second team.

The Dragons went into the game against Ely knowing that their fate was in their own hands, with a win guaranteeing them the runners-up spot in the division and promotion into Division 2.

A fast paced start with some slick passes saw the home side on the front foot early, with the ball being transferred confidently around the back line through the ever available Ollie Browne, and some neat interplay between midfielders James Tavernor and Andrew Fletcher creating chances for the forwards.

Ely were here to spoil the party though and some dogged and at times just down right stubborn defending and goalkeeping kept the Dragons off the scoresheet.

A rare Ely break caught out the Bourne-Deeping back line but they were given a reprieve when the striker fluffed his lines having rounded the ‘keeper but put his shot just wide.

With a 15-man squad the Dragons’ forwards were rolling on and off effectively, causing constant headaches for the 11 men of Ely.

Tom Mayhew, Andrew Dodds and Treve Wagstaff all came close to opening the scoring but blazed their chances high, wide, or both!

Ollie Vartan blasted one into the top corner from a tight angle; the ‘goal’ initially given, but then rightly ruled out as the ball had ripped through the side netting of the goal, such was the ferocity of the strike.

The response from Ely was spectacular; winning possession from a poor clearance at the back, the Ely forward drove into the circle, but isolated and rapidly running out of pitch there didn’t seem to be much danger until he cracked a sublime shot across both defender and goalkeeper into the far top corner from a ridiculous angle.

The Dragons were undoubtedly rocking, but cometh the hour, cometh the man, and Jonny Allen proved to be the coolest head in a crowded and frantic D to smash home the loose ball after yet another string of saves from the evergreen Chris Purllant in the Ely goal.

Belief restored, the Dragons began to hunt for the go ahead goal, and Browne duly obliged with a penalty corner strike which sneaked into the bottom right corner past an unsighted ‘keeper.

The second half saw Bourne-Deeping thoroughly dominate the game in terms of territory and possession but as has so often been the case this season, failing to put away their chances to kill the game off.

Fittingly, it was the captain Tavernor who finally calmed the nerves, forcing home a rebound off the goalie’s pads with 10 minutes to go to make it 3-1 and secure the three points needed to get his team promoted.

Above, from le The Dragons second XI which secured promotion: Ollie Vartan, Harry Fontaine, Andrew Fletcher, Jamie Cooper, Johnny Allen, James Tavenor, Graham Brewer, Joe Wray (goalkeeper), Treeve Wagstaffe, Tom Mayhew, Scott Downie, Matt Clarkson, Robin Edlington, Ollie Browne, Andrew Dodds

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