If you are tired of waiting for treatment, or can not get a particular treatment in your local area, Fitzwilliam Hospital can offer you the choice to be treated at your convenience. Contact us today on 01733 842 304 and our friendly Hospital Service Advisor will help you choose your Consultant and book an appointment for you.
IN THIS ISSUE KATE MAXIM INTERVIEWED adventurer and TV presenter Simon Reeve, and it makes fascinating reading. Not just for his escapades in some of the remotest parts of the world, but his advice that has a more local flavour. He makes a great point: an adventure doesn’t have to start in Mogadishu or Mongolia. It can start the minute you step out of your front door.
It got me thinking. How much do I know about my local area? I have two dogs so I do a lot of walking with them, but like most things in life I get into a routine and we tend to do the same routes which are easy and we know. There’s nothing wrong with that in one sense, but what am I missing just under my nose, by not exploring a bit more.
So in a future issue, we’re going to launch an Active Adventures page, with ideas for fascinating spots and interesting places locally that you can go and explore. They don’t have to have peril involved, they don’t have to be ambitious and require strength and fortitude to visit. They just need to be interesting, quirky, novel, different or enjoyable – somewhere to find, whether it requires a short jaunt or a long trek.
It might be a place or object that has an interesting history, or a spot that is secluded and beautiful, or a building or location that has a fascinating tale to tell. I’d love to hear your ideas from places you’ve been, so email me at editor@theactivemag.com, and we’ll start publishing them 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
If you have information on a club then get in touch by emailing editor@theactivemag.com. If you would like to stock Active magazine then email distribution@ theactivemag.com. If you would like to discuss advertising possibilities please email advertise@ theactivemag.com Active magazine is published 12 times per year on a monthly basis. ISSN 2059-8513
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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
Are you suffering from the following?
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In Rutland we have one of the seven MBST centres which are in the UK. Situated in Tinwell is a Physiotherapy centre which carries out the award winning treatment for Osteoarthrtitis, Osteoporosis, sports injuries, disc problems and general aches and pains for all ages.
MBST is getting more and more renowned for its benefits across the world as the success of its treatment is non-invasive for a patient, it is quick to work and has huge benefits. In some cases even prevented the need for operations and enable people to stop pain relief medication. What is so great about it is it has no side effects and the process is simple for the patient and entirely risk and pain free.
15 WHAT’S ON
Great things to do for all the family
17 TRAVEL
Visiting Australia’s Gold Coast
27 NATURE NOTES
Including our new gardening columnist
28-31 EATING OUT
The Jackson Stops at Stretton
32-33 PEOPLE
Wright Care at Home’s Sammy Wright
34-35 FASHION
Essential footwear advice
18-21 ADVENTURE CALLING
We meet TV explorer Simon Reeve
44-48 GREEN LIVING
How to be healthy and eco-friendly
50-53 ON YOUR BIKE
The growing trend of using e-bikes
38 ALL IN THE MIND?
Avicenna Clinic on the psychology of pain
43 PHYSIOTHERAPY
Advice from the Fitzwilliam Hospital
54-55 CHALLENGES
Updates on our intrepid fund-raisers
60-64 GREAT WALKS
Horninghold and Nassington
66-67 CYCLING
Get involved in the region’s biggest race
69 KITBAG
London Marathon-inspired fitness gear
71 MARTIN JOHNSON
Wry observations from The Times writer
76-82 ROUND-UP
How clubs in the area are faring
The original style icon has been reimagined for exploring the city with your friends in tow. So, you get all the trademark attitude with more doors and more legroom.
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Meet traveller Simon Reeves and Sammy Wright, founder of Wright Care at Home ● Visit Australia’s Gold Coast ● Eating out at The Jackson Stops in Stretton ● Fabulous foliage tips from our gardening columnist ● Why cheap shoes are chic
Edited by Mary Bremner
Jackson Buildbase in Stamford is a long established business that specialises in kitchens and bathrooms. A visit to the large showrooms in Scotgate is an eye opener in itself; there is so much to see and some inspiring ideas to be gained from the displays on show. No project is too small – or too large – and the team will help you from start to finish with your project, designing from scratch and offering a free quotation and design service. For kitchens they will design and fit, and for bathrooms they will design and recommend fitters. The staff are extremely friendly and helpful with many years’ experience and will guide you through picking tiles, units and fittings. You name it, they know it. And to cap it all, there’s parking next to the showroom, which is open from 7am during the week.
www.buildbase.co.uk 01780 764782
Sing for Life is back and raising money for the Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice. The group is looking for 40 local women, with a range of experience (including absolute beginners), who will rehearse for 10 weeks culminating in a concert at The Cresset in Peterborough on July 21.
Over the years hundreds of women have joined in, made new friends and raised thousands for the charity.
Sing for Life launches with sessions at the Key Theatre in Peterborough on May 10-12. No previous singing experience is necessary, just a willingness to join in while reaping the benefits of new friends, having great fun, and raising money for the Thorpe Hall Hospice.
For further information, and to register, email info@peterboroughmvchoir.org.uk or telephone 01733 425194.
Grimsthorpe Shooting Ground has opened its new clubhouse and in doing so has introduced a new era for the shooting ground. To celebrate the opening, the club held an open day last month where guests could have a go at shooting and be shown around the new facilities. Renowned for its excellent shooting layout and competitions, the club is now able to offer catering facilities, a bar and a beautiful rural venue for parties of up to 40 people. Take note of the excellent art on display from two local artists, all of which is for sale. The shooting ground is open from Wednesdays to Sundays so you can go and shoot a round at your leisure, or compete, and then enjoy a tasty lunch. Corporate events will also be held along with many competitions. Shooting lessons are also available. www.grimsthorpeshootingground.co.uk 01778 591128
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Anna Couture, the bespoke couturier, special occasion wear and bridal shop in Cheyne Lane, Stamford, is celebrating its first birthday.
The shop has carved a name for itself because of owner Anna-Maria D’Amato’s tremendous dressmaking skills and excellent customer service. As well as making you a wedding dress or bespoke garment, Anna is also very skilled at alterations and has lots of prom dresses on sale, and you’ll always be guaranteed a warm welcome. 01780 765174
Agri International, which launched in February, is the brainchild of Stamford based Alex Stephens.
The company is a classified adverts website for farm machinery, but offers a greater service than just placing an advert on a website as Alex and his team will work hard to match your machine to one
of their many contacts, nationally and internationally. With many years’ experience, Alex is looking forward to helping customers sell their machines at the best price. “We want Agri International to be known as the world’s local machinery advertiser,” says Alex. www.agriintl.com
Housebuilder Lovell Homes has donated £300 of book tokens to two Rutland schools to mark World Book Day. The two lucky schools – St Nicholas CE Primary School and Cottesmore Millfield Academy, both in Cottesmore – were delighted to receive the money so they can buy new books for their libraries. www.lovellnewhomes.co.uk
There’s lots going on in your area this month, why not try some of these?
● Fit2Fab is running new classes. Fitsteps is being held on Mondays at 6pm in Stamford at the Welland School of Dancing on Broad Street, and on Thursdays at Oakham Studios. Fit Mummas is on Wednesdays at 10.30am at Oakham Studios and Bootybarre on Thursday evenings at Oakham Studios. www.fit2fab.co.uk
● A flower arranging demonstration by Sue Spencer is being held on April 9, hosted by Stamford Flower Club. The event starts at 7pm at Barn Hill Methodist Church. The Flower Club is also holding a flower arranging workshop on April 11 at Borderville Sports Centre where you will create at least two arrangements. stamfordflowerclub@gmail.com
● Easton Walled Gardens is now open for the summer season. Open on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays, go and enjoy the beautiful 12-acre gardens and sample the excellent cakes, cream teas and light lunches in the tea rooms. www.visiteaston.co.uk
● Postponed because of the snow, the varsity rugby matches will now be held at Leicester Tigers’ ground on April 30. More than 60 teams of students from the Leicester and De Montfort universities will compete in nearly 30 sports over eight days to be crowned Varsity Champion – a title that the University of Leicester has won every year since records began in 2000. Tickets are available through the Tigers ticket office.
● Nagarjuna Kadampa Meditation Centre has relocated from Kelmarsh to Thornby Hall, which has re-opened after being closed to the public for 24 years. The 17th Century Jacobean mansion is set in 17 acres with its own lake. The World Peace Café is now open along with a gift shop. The centre holds meditation and mindfulness classes, family meditation classes and relaxation weekend retreats and a parent and tots group. www.meditateinnorthants.com/thornby-hall
● The Rutland Poppy Project has two workshops coming up where you can drop in to help make ceramic poppies. The first is on Friday, April 6, at Tesco in Oakham between
11am and 3pm; the other event is on Saturday, May 5, at Northfield Farm in Whissendine, again between 11am-3pm.
Tel: 01780 654321
Email: sales@classicstamford.co.uk www.classicstamford.co.uk
Take in the Commonwealth Games in Australia’s sunshine, party and surf paradise
The Commonwealth Games is being held in Australia this month, on Queensland’s Gold Coast where the weather promises to be an improvement on the last games in Glasgow!
The Gold Coast is renowned for its fabulous beaches and party atmosphere. Just over the border from New South Wales and 40 miles south of Queensland’s capital Brisbane, the Gold Coast is Australia’s sixth largest city. It’s a 14-hour drive from Sydney, or about an hour from Brisbane. Originally known as the South Coast (being south of Brisbane), in typical Aussie fashion it was renamed the Gold Coast in 1950 because of inflated property values and high prices charged to tourists.
Incorporating the suburb of Surfers’ Paradise, the area boomed in the 1980s and is a major tourist destination today for Australians as well as international visitors. Known as The Glitter Strip, this coastal stretch of Queensland boasts a sub-tropical climate, renowned surfing beaches, theme parks, nightlife, a large system of inland canals and waterways and a rainforest just on its doorstep. The Gold Coast is also known as Australia’s Hollywood, being the heart of the nation’s entertainment industry.
If all the brashness of the Gold Coast wears a bit thin, and you want a break from the
Commonwealth Games, head inland to the national parks of Mount Tamborine and Lamington. Here you can enter the rainforest to go hiking and see some of the world famous waterfalls in the Gondwana Rainforests, part of Australia’s World Heritage Area. You can also see avocados, kiwi fruits and macadamia nuts being grown as well as many wineries and fabulous restaurants. There is certainly something for everyone on Australia’s Gold Coast, with glorious weather guaranteed.
WEBSITES
www.destinationgoldcoast.com www.greyhound.com.au www.freedomaustralia.co.uk
Kate Maxim chats with explorer and TV presenter Simon Reeve about dangerous expeditions, saving the environment and starting an adventure at your front door
HAVING TRAVELLED THROUGH 120 different countries in the past 15 years, many in the most remote and extreme corners of the planet, Simon Reeve is undertaking a tour of the UK to talk about his experiences and to inspire other would-be adventurers to start their travels to far-flung places.
Or if that doesn’t appeal, he suggests walking out of your own front door and exploring the local area to see what adventures you may find closer to home.
Active You’re obviously a very active person. How did you start out life as an explorer?
Simon I fell into it in a way. I didn’t grow up in a family which travelled; I didn’t get on a plane until I started working. I just said “yes” quite a lot and volunteered for things, so even though I basically left school without any qualifications I was able to go from being a post boy on a newspaper to working on investigations to writing books which then ultimately led to working on the telly. I’ve had to build my life through lots of hard work, a bit of luck and, no doubt, having a good head of hair!
Hopefully my experiences will inspire a few people who haven’t had the greatest starts in life or who are feeling a bit lost, as I have done at times in my life. On the tour I’ll tell a few tales of inspiring people I’ve met around the world and if people don’t leave feeling better about their own life and inspired to be more adventurous, I’ll be a bit surprised.
Active Why do you think your TV programmes are so popular?
Simon It’s been a bit of a surprise how popular they are, but I’m glad. I’ve just done a programme on Russia which has been quite dark in places but we were getting five million viewings per episode along with the repeats. People like the mix of light and shade and the fact we go on proper adventures with long journeys where lots of weird and wonderful things happen.
I don’t have a script and usually no-one goes ahead to check things out so we make it up to some extent as we go along. It means that spontaneous things can happen and things do go wrong, but thanks to our brilliant team they are able to capture it on camera. Going on a journey where you have experiences that surprise and challenge you is a really exciting and memorable thing to do but it’s also what we’ve been doing since the beginning. It’s the way humans learn about and understand the world.
Active Were you inspired by other travel writers?
Simon I didn’t read a lot that inspired me but I did watch a lot of the great man Michael Palin and what I really loved about his programmes was just how respectful he was towards people who, until that time, had just been viewed as funny foreigners.
British presenters had often just talked down to them or about them but Palin sat down and engaged with people as fellow human beings, as our brothers and sisters on this planet, and I think there’s something beautiful and wonderful about that. We’re lucky to have what we have just because we’ve been born where we are and we share many common values with people all around the world.
Of course there are differences, but I feel very at home in strange parts of the world and although I don’t speak any foreign languages, I know that if you go with an open mind and heart you can really connect with people and they’ll welcome you in.
Active Do you have a favourite place you like to visit?
Simon There are so many. One of my favourites is Bangladesh, which is a very poor country with lots of challenges but the people are very warm and welcoming and interested in the outside world, always crowding round asking questions. I love the food and sense of adventure when I travel but meeting wonderful, memorable people is the biggest joy for me.
Active You’ve been in some very difficult situations. How do you react in a tight corner?
Simon I panic! No, often there’s not a lot you can do. I was in a situation in Mogadishu in Somalia, for example, where people were pointing anti-aircraft guns directly at me and I knew if they pulled the trigger my little anti-flak jacket was not going to stop their large rounds and I’d be toast. I didn’t freeze, I was still able to think, but most of my thoughts weren’t very helpful. I had to quickly accept that I must sit there and look unthreatening as whatever I said would have made things worse.
I hoped and prayed in my head – I had quite a lot of faith – that it would end safely and it did. Thank goodness it did, otherwise everyone involved would have been completely riddled with bullets as the mercenaries who were protecting us and another gang we’d encountered were screaming and pointing Kalashnikovs at each other.
Active When you’re not travelling for work, where do you go on holiday with your family?
Simon We’re lucky in that my wife speaks fluent Greek and she knows Greece very well so she takes us there. Although it’s not the other side of the planet, it’s still very exotic and I love the food and outdoor life. We go to an island called Symi a lot, which is just off Rhodes, and it’s a beautiful place with lots of steep stairs to climb and places to explore which my son is very keen on. He’s always asking “What’s over there? What’s behind those buildings?” So we go and have a look.
Active In the magazine this month we’re looking at how we can get out and about in a sustainable way. You’re interested in conservation. How do you feel about the state of the planet?
Simon This is one of the aspects of the job I struggle with. Over the years I’ve seen the world changing but I still think there’s enormous value in getting out there, exploring and learning about the planet. Whether it’s a national park in the UK or a national park in Africa these places are kept going by the fact that people keep visiting them, so if travellers don’t go to the Serengeti or scuba dive in a marine protected area in the Indian Ocean then these places will be fished to death or levelled and turned into a palm oil plantation.
If we want to keep iconic life alive on this planet then one of the best chances we’ve got is making sure national parks around the planet can survive. Every time we go to these places we pay an entrance fee so in that way we help keep them going. That fee pays the salaries of the park wardens and the anti-poaching patrollers which helps ensure that life is sustainable and wildlife is conserved.
Putting money back into communities that live next to elephants in India or lions in Africa is also important. If we want to protect our wild areas closer to home then people need to get out, embrace and enjoy them otherwise people might think they could build a light industrial zone on there.
I’m hugely in favour of people getting up and getting out there and embracing an active life. Life is very short and we have such incredible opportunities now to do wonderful, exciting things and travel gives us memories. Anyone who is not selling their grandchildren or mortgaging their grandparents needs their head examining.
I realise I’m a bit of a TV ponce saying “go on, get out there,” so if you can’t afford to travel across the world or around the country, fair enough, but we can all start outside our front door. If you’re struggling to get the dosh together for something more far-fetched, then get a map of your home area, take a glass, turn it upside down, centre it on your own home and draw a circle around the rim. Then go and explore that area.
It’s important to know your own patch before you go off and explore the planet because then you’ve got reference points and you know what’s around the corner. So often people don’t. They don’t go down different roads or look at what’s over that hill. So start with that if you’re a bit pushed for cash but I really think people need to try and have memorable experiences. The big wide world is a wonderful place to be and nothing you can see on the telly or computer can possibly match the thrill of actually being there.
‘The big wide world is a wonderful place to be and nothing you can see on the telly or computer can possibly match the thrill of actually being there’
Active Do you have any top tips for travellers?
Simon Always wear a seatbelt but go a bit wild and take risks. Push yourself out of your comfort zone and do things your grandchildren or grandparents wouldn’t approve of. Drink in local bars, eat in local restaurants and always try the crazy, local food. Don’t eat in restaurants that have pictures of the grub outside. Instead ask what’s the most interesting thing they have on the menu; it’s very rarely going to kill you and will almost certainly gift you some really powerful memories. Often weird food tastes brilliant... roasted sheep’s eyes are delicious.
The key thing is to always push yourself a little bit further. That’s how you wrap up some memories and really have something to talk about, not just on the day you get home, but for the rest of your life.
An Audience with Simon Reeve is at De Montfort Hall, Leicester, on 22 October at 7.30pm. www.simonreeve.co.uk or www.demontforthall.co.uk. 0116 233 3111.
Conservatory too hot in the summer and too cold in winter?
Classic have the answer to this problem and you do not even have to change the existing windows/doors, although you can. Structurally very strong which means your new sun room meets full Building Regulation Approval.
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12 St Leonard’s Street, Stamford, Lincs PE9 2HN
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A quick and easy mid-week one-pot supper
Ingredients
65g butter
1 small leek, finely sliced
100g kale
35g flour
500ml chicken stock
100ml single cream
200g cubed chicken breasts
100g peas
250g potatoes, sliced thinly Salt and pepper
Method
Stir-fry the chicken until just browned. Fry the leeks in 40g butter, then add the kale cooking until wilted. Stir through the flour, cook for a minute and then add the stock, cream, chicken and peas. Stir well and season to taste.
Put everything into an oven-proof dish
and place the thinly sliced, unpeeled potatoes on top, overlapping to completely cover the chicken mix. Cut the 25g of butter into even cubes and scatter over the potatoes.
Pop in the oven at 200 degrees C and cook for 40 minutes until golden brown on top.
Our new gardening columnist Teresa Kennedy tells us how to make use of foliage
I’m a sucker for foliage. I love it, but I think you’ve got to go big with it, really make it zing. Vibrant greens, big showy leaves, height and dense planting make for a great display however big or small your plot.
The three stalwarts listed (right) will start you off with structure and it’s easy to underplant in their shade with ferns and creepers.
How do you bring this to your own garden?
Courtyard – create a border and densely plant; you need differing heights of plants to give depth to your small space. Go tall. Pots and containers are everywhere, buy as many as you can, as big as you can, and fill them. It is really important to get your soil mix correct so check each plant carefully.
Large garden – create a sanctuary area, a garden room. A pergola is a great focal point and a base around which to build your foliage scheme. Be creative with the heights of your plants, hiding parts
of the structure will give a feeling of intrigue and romance. Sculptural pieces will be perfect in this setting.
The current trend for indoor plants can inspire you to do the same to your outside space. There is nothing to stop you putting up an outdoor shelf and adorning it with pot plants, natural ornaments and candle holders. And then change it all about to vary things. It creates mood and is especially effective near to an eating or sitting area.
Your outdoor space does not have to be about flowers. It also doesn’t need to be about grass, especially if you have a small plot; don’t be afraid to dig it up.
Sometimes with gardens, especially a blank new build patch, or one you’ve inherited from a previous green-fingered expert, you feel either dictated to by what currently exists or totally uninspired. I cannot encourage you enough to not feel like this. You move into a new house and you instantly put your furniture in, paint the walls, change the lights etc.
A garden is the same, make it yours.
Fatsia japonica (Castor oil plant)
An absolute must – reliable and happily pruned to achieve what you want. It is a valuable plant for height and producing a canopy. Great branches if left exposed.
Tetrapanax papyrifer (Chinese rice paper plant) Wonderfully architectural in leaf shape, statuesque and, if your garden’s relatively sheltered, then evergreen.
antarctica (Tree fern) Provides feathery frond foliage on an impressive trunk and offers a contrast to palmate leaves. www.viridisdesign.co.uk http://viridisdesign.co.uk 07726 334501
Wheatears pass through our area in spring (March to May) and autumn (August to October) migrations. They nest in upland regions from the Peak District, north to Scotland, and west to Wales and south-west England. Winter is spent in tropical Africa. Some birds passing through in May are en route to breed in Greenland.
Male wheatears are very distinctive with a blue-grey back, sandy coloured breast and black cheeks and wings. Females are duller and lack the black cheeks. Both sexes show an obvious white rump. The call is a harsh ‘weet-chack-chak’. Look for wheatears on open areas – sheep
grazed pasture, farmland, golf courses and even suburban playing fields all attract birds on migration. Perhaps the most reliable site is the Rutland Water dam, where they perch prominently on the stonework and drop down to collect insects from the cycle track. At such times the white rump is easily seen and several birds may be present on good days.
On their upland breeding sites the nest is concealed in a hole in the ground, in a drystone wall or a drainpipe. Six eggs are laid in late April or May and incubated for 14 days with the young fledging at 15 days. Terry Mitcham
steve and Dunmore check that a place which has been at the top of the local culinary charts is still performing FOOD
You know that feeling when you find an old jumper hiding at the back of the cupboard, put it on, feel how comfortably it fits and looks good still, and wonder how on earth you had forgotten about it for such a long time?
I had that feeling with the Jackson Stops. It’s been ages since I came here, and yet I pass it nearly every day, hiding in plain sight in Stretton just off the A1. Part of the local furniture, serving people for generations while lots of other pubs and restaurants launch with ambitious chefs, colourful menus and high concept décor, and then often disappear as quickly as they came. But the Jackson Stops, a Grade II listed country pub, with its reputation for good food and an interior that has barely changed in decades, is the exact opposite.
Run by Rob, Mandy and son Richard Knowles, the family has been serving food, drink and a warm welcome to people in the area for more than 30 years and that knowledge shines through in the Jackson Stops.
First off is the front bar, which is barely big enough to get more than a couple of tables in, but with its tiled floor and walls cluttered with ephemera, you can imagine local farmers half a century ago clumping in after a day’s work and the place would not have looked much different, although the smell of pipe smoke is a long distant memory.
What the Jackson Stops does brilliantly is authenticity and Dunmore and I settled in at one of the tables for an
excellent pint of Oakham’s Grainstore Brewery Cooking beer while we mulled over the menu.
The Jackson Stops has a reputation for good food, and has been recommended by the Michelin Guide for the last four years, but it’s a reputation not won with fancy displays of cooking artistry but good honest food made really well. The menu illustrates that, where the most exotic starter was a prawn and crayfish tian and the mains had a confit duck surrounded by Asian flavours.
Indulging in some vintage flavour, I went for a smoked haddock, lobster, spring onion and brown shrimp fishcake with pickled cucumber and pea puree, while Dunmore chose buttered spinach, Parma ham, poached egg hollandaise and Rutland rapeseed oil.
We moved through to one of the many dining rooms, all of which are small and cosy and dotted throughout the building, and settled in.
My starter was good, although it was a little hard to distinguish each of the various seafood ingredients, which I suppose is part of a fishcake’s make-up, while the pickled cucumber had a fabulous kick to it. Dunmore was very impressed with his dish, which had a rich hollandaise that fairly glowed and an egg with a yolk of volcanic intensity.
For mains, for some unfathomable reason, I went for more haddock, in the shape of the beer battered variety with chips and more peas. Why, I can’t quite say. Obviously I was in a pea and haddock mood.
WEDNESDAY 11
Stamford Arts Centre’s Festival of Poetry and Spoken Word returns for another year, bigger and even better than before. This year’s festival brings some more big names to the towndon’t miss LEMN SISSAY MBE’s masterclass and renowned live show ‘SOMETHING DARK’ as well as ROGER MCGOUGH with his band LiTTLe MACHiNe!
With something for adults and children, beginners and experts alike, Verse 2018 has something for everyone to enjoy. Tickets are on sale now-pick up a festival brochure to discover more including the festival’s fringe events!
27 ST MARY’S STREET STAMFORD PE9 2DL BOX OFFICE 01780 763203 WWW.STAMFORDARTSCENTRE.COM
27 ST MARY’S STREET STAMFORD PE9 2DL BOX OFFICE 01780 763203 WWW.STAMFORDARTSCENTRE.COM
Dunmore went for a meal that felt suitable for the last knockings of winter: steak, ale and shallot pie with flaky pastry, chips and creamed peas. They were working hard, those peas.
It’s fair to say I did a triumphant job finishing off the fish and chips, for the haddock was a veritable shoal on the plate, coated in a batter that was so crispy yet light it was almost tempura, while the homemade chips were crisp and golden. It was very good indeed. Sometimes fish and chips can be too oily and you can almost feel the oil seeping out of your pores by the end, but not these.
Probably the highlight of the evening was Dunmore’s pie, which he got a bit emotional about, declaring it one of the best he’d had in years and expounding something very complimentary about the pastry and the quality of the steak and richness of the gravy, but it was hard to entirely understand what he was saying in the few seconds when he didn’t have a mouthful.
Then we moved on to pudding, just to make certain the standard was as we had expected, and I had a locally picked blackberry and apple crumble with vanilla custard and clotted ice cream while Dunmore opted for torched homemade pavlova, glazed banana, mango coulis and
rum and raisin ice cream. Swimming in a sea of custard, all I have to say about my crumble is that it reminded me of the ones my mum would make for Sunday lunch when I was a kid, and I can’t really give much higher praise than that. Although I don’t think she was much cop at sugar work, as that was sadly lacking from her repertoire. The pavlova got the thumbs up too and we finished it off with a good strong coffee.
It felt, as the wind rushed by in the dark outside, like a season-ending sort of a meal: good hearty, wintry fare.
It certainly is the sort of food that will never leave you disappointed, at a price that is entirely reasonable, and proves that while time marches on and food trends and fashions come and go, it is great that some things stay the same, and top quality food at the Jackson Stops is one of them.
The Jackson Stops Rookery Lane, Stretton, Rutland LE15 7RA 01780 410237 www.thejacksonstops.com
Kate Maxim talks to the care director at Wright Care at Home about promoting health and independence for the elderly
Active What did you do before setting up your company?
Sammy When I left school I worked in retail. I moved around and climbed the ladder to become manager, but I didn’t get much reward from it. I had also wanted to be a nurse so did some work experience in hospitals but I decided that wasn’t for me because I felt a bit imprisoned. And the bits about nursing I liked were the companionship side of things, and having a good bedside manner, but nursing has changed and it’s so rushed with lots of paperwork. I then worked in care companies as a carer for five to six years seeing really good care, and really poor care. I decided I wanted my own business, focused in just one area, that wasn’t over-stretched, wasn’t corporate and has a family feel where you treat people as you would your own. I had management experience and skills and I knew how it felt to be a carer, out and about in the community. You can feel quite isolated at times as you’re a lone worker and you don’t always know what you’re walking into, but the rewards are massive. My gran was the one who came up with the idea to set up on my own, then my dad came on board, and my stepmum does all the administration. Originally we had an office at home, now there are 23 employees and the business is two years old in April. There’s a massive demand for care as we’re an ageing population, so we have a waiting list all the time. We’re based in Stamford and cover the surrounding villages as far as Essendine, Tallington and King’s Cliffe.
Active Do you have a ‘typical’ customer?
Sammy We can support anyone classed as a vulnerable adult from 18 years upwards, although we’re not registered for people with learning disabilities. We predominantly look after the elderly who may have conditions such as dementia, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and multiple sclerosis. We have a lot of customers who want one to three visits per week, mainly for reassurance. They build a relationship with the carers, and if they then don’t feel well, or as things decline, the relationship is established.
Active What’s the most common support people need – emotional or physical?
Sammy It’s both. We support people with reduced mobility where we use equipment to help get them up and about. We provide personal care getting people washed and dressed and help prepare freshly cooked meals so people are not stuck just eating ready meals. And we help with medication, taking them to appointments, shopping and laundry. Everything but gardening and cleaning chimneys! Our focus has always been to try and stop loneliness as it’s the biggest killer in the elderly. They can get very depressed and often their families live a long way away and the grandchildren are busy, so they don’t see many people. We run a voluntary service where our carers give up a few hours of their own time per month and take their customers out to places
such as garden centres, the market, for afternoon tea or they may just stay in to do a jigsaw. That’s made a huge impact on their lives.
Active How do you keep your clients active?
Sammy We work with occupational therapists and physiotherapists, so if someone is struggling to get around the home we’ll help support them so they can stay at home rather than going into hospital or residential care. We encourage people to go out and about and we always promote independence. If we know someone can do something for themselves we won’t try and do it for them. As soon as people stop moving around that’s when problems begin. I go to a piloxing class in Bourne which is a mix between pilates and boxing. The owner, Danielle, works with people with dementia in care homes as they can do a lot of exercises while sitting in a chair. We’re hoping to join forces and bring that to our clients.
Active What are the essential attributes of a carer?
Sammy Compassion is the biggest thing. It’s not a task-orientated job and every visit is different so you have to make it personal and holistic. As you don’t know what you’re going to walk into, you have to be able to deal with difficult situations and work under pressure using common sense. And you must treat people as you would your own family.
Active Do you still go out on visits?
Sammy Everyone in the office does visits on a weekly basis. And we turn up regularly to do spot checks when carers are with customers to ensure care is being given as it should be. We’re all very hands-on people and so don’t like being stuck in an office. In our first Care Quality
Commission report last year we were given an overall rating of good, which is fantastic for our first inspection, and outstanding for being well-led which we’re really proud of. We’re always doing charity events and work a lot with Marie Curie because we do a lot of end of life care. We’re starting to look at more local charities as well. We do lots of coffee mornings – Macmillan and Dignity Action day – and we’ve got Cake Break soon for MS. All carers love cake. If they don’t they can‘t have the job!
All the office team did a half marathon, The Great Eastern Run, last year. We decided to sign up for it only three months before, so with hindsight probably didn’t give ourselves enough time to train properly, but we raised just under £1,000 for the Stroke Association in memory of one of our customers.
Active What plans do you have for the future?
Sammy There’s talk of doing the Great North Run this year but I’ve got an injury so haven’t been running recently. I have a personal trainer twice a week which is my way of burning off steam. This job is 24/7 and as it never stops, it’s nice to have a bit of light relief. I go to Clubbercise, which is dancing with glow sticks, and now I drag the team along too.
In terms of the business, we do want to grow, but not grow the area just yet. In the future we may have another office in Oakham and another in Bourne. We are always recruiting because of the demand and that’s the hardest challenge. We have 15 carers and in the next six months we want to increase that up to 20. We will grow but don’t want to lose the personal touch we’ve had from the beginning.
Wright Care at Home: 01780 489227. www.wrightcareathome.co.uk
Edited by Mary Bremner
We were always told to look after our feet and wear ‘proper shoes’. This meant shoes should always be leather and the best quality you could afford.
And in some circumstances this is still the case. I’m a great believer in investing in a good pair of leather shoes or boots, particularly if they are going to get a lot of wear pounding the pavements daily. If this is the case you can justify spending more as ‘cost per time worn’ is minimal the more you wear them, so it’s money well spent. But this is not always the case. Sometimes pretty, impractical and parsimonious is the way to go. And even the snootiest fashionistas who would look
down their nose at anything ‘cheap and nasty’ are in agreement when it comes to decorative footwear.
Pretty shoes and boots that are impractical and fun are everywhere and you don’t have to spend a fortune on them. Shoes that are highly decorated, frivolous and fun, and don’t break the bank, are being embraced by everyone. And it makes sense... why spend a lot of money on shoes that won’t be worn a great deal and, if high fashion, probably won’t see the light of day next year?
Don’t misjudge a cheap shoe – they aren’t always excruciatingly uncomfortable, or will fall apart after a week. Marks and
Spencer often uses liners with insolia that redistributes weight away from the balls of your feet, making the shoe comfortable all day long. And its pretty velvet slingback kitten heels have it (see panel far right). The shoes are pretty and impractical, being a textile upper, but they will brighten any outfit up, making you much more cheerful – just don’t go out in the rain.
Zara, Mango and River Island are three more retailers who are bang up to date with fabulous shoes, and don’t forget New Look either. Footwear fashion is fun so go and try the latest sock boot, cocktail shoe or pointed toe kitten heel – they will definitely be a conversation starter.
Amy Roberts visits the Granary Laser Clinic in Tugby
I was intrigued by the idea of permanent laser hair removal and wanted to find out for myself how it really works. I’ve spent a lot on razors over the years and the thought of no hair forever sounds too good to be true.
To find out more, and experience it myself, I visited Lucinda and Hayley at the Granary Laser Clinic in Tugby. They’ve been in this very discreet setting for four and a half years and make you feel very welcome.
The laser only works on hair it can see, so dark hairs are the best. Before my first treatment I went for a patch test to check my body didn’t react in any way to the laser, and then it’s all systems go. As there are numerous hair growing cycles, to be completely hair free usually takes four to six sessions (although everyone is different). So I would have to go back every three months to have a treatment, four to six times, depending on how my hair grows. So realistically for all the hair to be completely gone, and not growing back, will take about a year.
I decided to have my underarm hairs removed as I hate being on holiday and having to keep remembering to shave. Before we began the treatment, Hayley explained how the laser works. Melanin is what gives hair its colour, so when the laser is fired it’s the melanin that carries the laser light down to the blood supply. This means that anything above the surface of the skin is vaporised, leaving the stubble to die off. Then during the next two to three weeks the hair will be expelled. I will be hair free for six weeks before the hair starts to grow back. This is
the time to book my second appointment. With waxing you have to wait for the hair to grow, with laser treatment it’s better when the hair is stubble. You work around holidays so you get your hair lasered four weeks before, or four weeks after your holiday to prevent the skin burning. It’s a very safe and non-ionising energy.
We went through all the dos and don’ts before the treatment. Deodorant was washed off, I was given goggles to wear to protect my eyes, and then I was ready. I was a little anxious about it being painful but I was pleasantly surprised. I found it less painful than waxing, and it was over before I knew it – nothing to worry about! Hayley advised me to have a cool shower that evening, but not to do any exercise. And then to follow this up with warm baths and to moisturise the area to help the hairs come out. Since my treatment the hair has been coming out every day so it’s going in the right direction. Laser treatment has really opened my eyes to a new way of hair removal, and I would highly recommend this for anyone who wants to throw away their razor.
I plan to go back to have another few treatments so my underarm hair gradually disappears for good. The treatment is relatively expensive, but just think how much you will save on razors over the years, and how much time you will save not having to defuzz.
One underarm treatment at the Granary Laser Clinic cost £75. For full details visit www.thegranary.uk.com. 07921 261763.
Investigating the psychology of pain, plus three rules to help you train efficiently
Edited by Steve Moody
Wattbike is described as the best indoor training bicycle by the British Cycling Team. But what are they and why are they so popular? Function Jigsaw’s Lauren Dobson explains
What is a Wattbike?
The Wattbike was created and launched in 2008 to provide an affordable indoor bike for training and testing that is suitable for everyone and can be used effectively in different sports.
It is used by cyclists and other athletes in professional environments, loved by Olympic champions, endorsed by athletes including Jessica Ennis-Hill and Saracens and England rugby player, Billy Vunipola. It is becoming very popular in the sporting world of gyms, training studios and local clubs.
A Wattbike measures your speed, force and power as well as analysing your pedalling technique and performance. Each and every rotation is stored in the bike’s software, illustrating where and when you apply power through your legs, allowing you to improve your power output at the end.
This is incredibly instructive, as you can save a huge amount of energy just by pedalling efficiently.
The Wattbike is perfect for those:
• returning from injury – functional rehab
• maintaining fitness during injury
• improving performance
• improving cardio and interval fitness
• working on strength and conditioning.
Use of a Wattbike for injury management
Its static nature and the fact that it allows the ability to exercise at low intensities and low load bearing, make this a crucial piece of equipment.
But most of all, its immediate visual feedback makes the Wattbike much preferred by practitioners over any other indoor bike and other rehab equipment on the market.
It is widely used by clinicians for injury rehabilitation, particularly after knee injury,
surgery or weakness. Very commonly used post-knee arthroscopy, ligament surgery, lower limb fractures and Achilles’ tendon repairs.
“My injury means I can’t run for eight out of the 12-week rehab period, so I needed an alternative to maintain my fitness. The Wattbike, and the functions it is capable of, are the closest thing I can do to replicate the ‘running week’ of pre-season training that the rest of the team will be doing,” explains David Jones, competitive marathon runner.
What is functional rehab?
Advanced functional rehabilitation is about getting a client back to more than normal daily activity. It involves performing controlled movements in an area of dysfunction, where the improvements in strength, coordination, flexibility, mobility and conditioning are all components used directly to have an effect on performance.
How can a Wattbike help functional rehab?
Rehab specialists can use the Wattbike to offer detailed fitness testing and performance analysis, not only for cyclists but for people in other sports who are keen to progress and take the steps necessary to reach their upcoming goals.
The Wattbike gives reliable data and with this assessment and feedback, areas which need attention can be highlighted.
What if I’m not injured, can exercise on a Wattbike help me?
There is no doubt that with the information produced by the Wattbike, individuals will be looking at improvements, injured or non-injured.
The key difference between the Wattbike and every other indoor bike is that the Wattbike accurately measures your training strengths and weaknesses with immediate
results. Within seconds it can measure numerous key factors which can be analysed and interpreted easily.
Wattbike sessions give cyclists, triathletes and other disciplines including rowers and rugby players, the opportunity to train smarter; like the pros do. It’s training by numbers.
A structured approach to training immediately improves efficiency and fine-tunes your performance. Then with that information you can pick out which areas need work, monitor progressions and regressions and set your new goals and targets whatever they may be.
“Within a minute of starting to ride the Wattbike, it was obvious that I was favouring my left leg, roughly 53/47, left to right. I had no idea I did this, and I suffer with no injury. With the feedback loop displayed on the screen, it was 50/50 within five minutes – hopefully my muscle memory will do its job next time I’m out on the road” said one of Matt Bottril’s cycling team members.
Wattbikes at Function Jigsaw can be used as an open-ride session for you, or you and your friends, you can attend classes, come for an induction or performance analysis testing.
This piece of equipment might be your way forward into making some new progressions in your physical activity, don’t be put off with how technical they can sound.
Why not give it a try?
For more information or to book your induction, don’t hesitate to contact the team at Function Jigsaw on 0116 3400255.
Dr Soumya Ghosh, consultant psychiatrist at Avicenna Clinic, explains the psychology of pain
You are said to suffer from chronic pain when it persists beyond the time (usually three months) that tissue healing would normally be expected to take.
Dr John Bonica started the first pain clinic in Tacoma, Washington state, in 1949 and wrote the first textbook on pain treatment in 1953 – until then, chronic pain was not considered to be a medical condition that required special evaluation and treatment.
It was recognised early on that no single specialist could address all the complexities presented by these sufferers. The multidisciplinary pain clinic is now considered the ideal facility for the treatment of pain.
Specialists in pain clinics assess whether or not the sufferer needs any medical or surgical intervention for pain before accepting the sufferer in the clinic. This is important because if the sufferer believes that a surgical or medical procedure is likely to be of benefit, he or she will be less inclined to co-operate with psychological techniques in the pain clinic.
Sufferers engage in a wide range of pain-related behaviours, such as taking medication, careful movement and
avoidance behaviours. Such ‘pain behaviours’ are often considered maladaptive since they not only result in negative avoidance and increased passivity (eg bed rest, complaining), but also reduce more positive adaptive behaviours, such as exercising and socialising.
A psychological assessment is needed for all sufferers attending the pain clinic to determine whether a psychiatric or psychological treatment is necessary. Psychiatrists are trained medical doctors who can prescribe medications, and spend much of their time with patients on medication management as a course of treatment, while psychologists focus extensively on psychotherapy and treating emotional and mental suffering in patients with behavioral intervention. Psychologists and psychiatrists often work together with a common goal: helping people feel better.
Psychiatric approaches
The psychiatric assessment will obtain an accurate account of the circumstances surrounding the onset of the pain, intensity of pain and if there was exceptional mental or physical stress just before the painful
event as this may accompany the painful symptoms and contribute to their maintenance. It is known that sufferers who are in distress from physical or psychiatric factors tend to rate the intensity of their pain as higher than when they are not in that state.
One third of sufferers have a psychiatric illness, the most common of which is depression. Anxiety disorder is also common. A number of other psychiatric problems are associated with chronic pain. Depression and anxiety predict a range of negative outcomes, including greater pain, disability and longer time to get back to work. Anxiety and depression are associated with lower pain threshold and tolerance levels.
The majority of pain sufferers have a measurable degree of psychological distress. Pain is not just a sensory experience but also has a psychological component. What we think, what we feel and how we behave can all influence the experience of pain. Indeed, such cognitive, emotional and behavioural processes are believed to moderate pain sensation.
The fact that pain experiences can have little to do with tissue damage and much more to do with how sufferers respond to pain has important implications for pain management. Various psychological therapies are being used in pain management like behavioural therapy where both physical and psychological gains in treatment are rewarded appropriately.
Sufferers who complete such programmes usually find that although their pain is not greatly reduced, they are better able to manage their pain.
Cognitive therapy deals with thoughts and beliefs of sufferers which are not always justifiable, like if pain interferes with a desired activity, the activity concerned should no longer be carried out under any circumstances. In addition, most sufferers with chronic pain can benefit from relaxation procedures.
Hypnosis is often a sought-after option by the sufferers although the main aim of this technique should be to encourage selfrelaxation procedures.
Pain management requires multiprofessional approaches. 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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Post-training recovery is vital to any athlete’s fitness programme, not least as we enter marathon season. For those who enjoy running or sport at any level, aching muscles, swollen ankles and similar injuries can interrupt training and affect motivation.
The treatment of choice for many is Bexters crystals, a natural, safe and effective way to reduce swelling and relieve aches and pains after exercise or strenuous activity, and so accelerate recovery. Sports physiotherapists also report positive results in terms of post-operative rehabilitation, for example reducing swelling around an injured knee enabling a faster return to fitness.
Bexters can be used in a bath or with a purpose-designed applicator wrap for localised relief. Wraps are available for different parts of the body. Both methods proved invaluable for Stamford marathon runner and triathlete Emma Sowden, as she prepared for her first Ironman UK last summer. Having suffered from swollen ankles and puffy feet, Emma wrapped crystals around one foot overnight, for comparison, and was thrilled with the result.
“There was no swelling and no pain, a fantastic result in comparison to the untreated foot,” she said. “I found wrapping both ankles, especially after
intensive or longer training sessions, brought massive benefits in terms of recovery coupled with a relaxing crystal bath whenever I could find the time!”
Originally from Australia, where Bexters is partnered with Ironman, the crystals are now available direct from Peterborough-based Bowen Supplies by Helen, which celebrates its 10th anniversary this year as exclusive distributor for UK and Europe.
Bexters is one of two specialist health and wellness products discovered by founder Helen Perkins while living in Australia, where she worked as a reflexologist and Bowen technique therapist. The other product is awardwinning Bowtech Ease, an ayurvedic aromatherapy oil for relief of bunions and other painful joints.
Having seen the benefits first-hand in her own clinical practice, she was determined to make them more widely available on returning to the UK, which led her to set up Bowen Supplies by Helen.
“Marathon season is always a busy time as runners ramp-up their training and better weather entices joggers of all ages to take to the road,” said Helen. “However, even less sporty types can enjoy a relaxing crystal bath after a busy day or give tired feet a treat!” www.bowensuppliesbyhelen.com
Readers can take advantage of Helen’s ‘try me’ offer at www. bowensuppliesbyhelen. com and using code AM0418 at checkout. Purchase any applicator wrap of your choice and we will supply a 200g sachet of Bexters Soda Crystals free (RRP £4.99). Offer expires April 30.
3 - 6 APRIL, 9 - 13 APRIL, 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 - 13 APRIL, 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
Fitzwilliam physiotherapist Miriam Rivotti advises on improving performance in athletic competition
The role of strength and conditioning is to use exercise to improve performance in athletic competition. It also helps athletes with injury prevention and proper mechanics within their performances.
Strength and conditioning encompasses the entire development of the athlete and what is needed to improve physical performance. This includes plyometric, speed and agility, endurance and core stability.
Strength training for runners – recent research findings
Top three rules on how to manage training effectively
1 Always prioritise your training goals (or, don’t try to do two things at once). It’s possible to maintain strength and power while boosting conditioning, just like it’s possible to maintain your conditioning while boosting your strength and power.
2 Use complementary training methods (or,
don’t use methods that conflict with each other).
3 Organise your training effectively (or, separate different types of training based on fitness level. Depending on your fitness level, you’ll need to organize the training program in a way that allows full recovery).
The exact details of what to strengthen and how to do it are likely to be highly individual depending on your goals, strengths and weaknesses.
Common muscle groups to target include quads, hamstrings, calf muscles and glutes. Strengthening these muscles may prove effective but building a programme based on the assessment of a physiotherapist or health professional will achieve better results.
The Fitzwilliam Hospital has an amazing team of experienced physiotherapists who can help you make the best out of it!
The Fitzwilliam Hospital offers a range of services such as expert consultants in orthopaedics and sports injuries, access to
radiology, physiotherapy and podiatry. Your physiotherapist can help you assess your pain, range of movement, muscle strength, balance and stability.
A progressive program may be tailored for you and get you back to the activities you enjoy as quickly as possible.
For more information contact the Fitzwilliam Hospital on 01733 842304
There are lots of local businesses at the forefront of sustainable, environmentallyfriendly living. We highlight some of the best for travel, food, holidays and homes
There are few ways of travelling which are more friendly to the environment than cycling, and throughout the area we are blessed with routes and venues that provide sustainable pathways and low carbon footprint destinations.
Café Ventoux at Tugby is just such a place.
Founder Brian Jordan explains his philosophy: “We believe the best way to experience Café Ventoux is by bike – not only is cycling a perfect way to keep fit while seeing the surrounding Rutland and Leicestershire countryside, but it is also incredibly environmentally friendly and a great way to cut carbon emissions.
“Every week, we encourage our visitors to cycle to the café and take part in our Saturday social ride in order to reduce the carbon footprint for the local area.”
To get people started Café Ventoux is partnered with www.cyclescheme.co.uk (offering financial incentives to get a bike) which can be used on any of its bikes as well as many of its accessories. Then to keep them riding safely it has a fully equipped cycle workshop that offers a range of services, from an annual service to a full bike build.
Brian adds: “We take great pride in all of our products, many of which were specially selected due to their low environmental impact. Our new range of B.Fresh vegan smoothies and juices are farm pressed and made with farm sourced ingredients in Shropshire. Not only is this partnership bringing vegan and vegetarian products to our visitors but it also shows our dedication to supporting British brands.
“When it came to selecting the packaging for our new ‘grab & go’ food menu, we opted for both biodegradable and fully recyclable packaging in order to minimise our impact on
the environment.”
And riding a bike will give you more appreciation of the environment around you. Neil from George Hall Cycles in Market Harborough says: “Just like an electric car, bicycles pay no vehicle excise duty to be on the road, but unlike in a car, you notice so much more. You can ride your bicycle for fun, fitness or commute and watch the wildlife all around.
“What’s even better is when you discover green lanes and off-road riding and then you can really appreciate nature. The air is so much cleaner and wildlife so much closer. We are blessed in our area with the Grand Union Canal and the Brampton Valley Way – two very safe routes open to families, walkers and cyclists alike. We have a fully equipped workshop on site where we repair and service any make and model of bicycle.”
If where you’re going is too far to cycle, then electric cars are increasingly impressive and practical. BMW makes some of the best in the
form of the 170hp i3, a full electric hatchback city car that has a real world range of around 140 miles, and can be charged quickly at home or at the charging network which is rapidly growing around the UK. There’s also a Government grant to help you buy one.
Because electric motors deliver instant power and torque, the i3 is surprisingly quick off the line too, and being a BMW handles very nimbly. It is made of recycled and sustainably sourced materials too, and even the factory where it is made is powered by alternative energy.
Only when you’ve driven an electric car, and whooshed along quickly and silently, do you come to realise how advanced they are and how noisy traditionally powered cars are. To test drive one of these amazing cars, visit Sycamore BMW in Peterborough.
www.georgehallscycles.co.uk 01858 465507 www.cafe-ventoux.cc 01162 598 063 www.sycamorebmw.co.uk 01733 707070
Tradesmen
Hairdressers
Homeworking
Aaron Patterson has been head chef at Hambleton Hall for 26 years so has got to know lots of local suppliers.
He says: “The kitchen garden really helps to reduce our carbon footprint. It’s been revamped this year so we have an amazing new greenhouse which is three times the size of the last one and overall we should get two to three times as much from it as we did last summer.
“I love utilising everything we’ve got so we grow our own flowers for the table and I make handmade flavoured chocolates from our massive bay leaf tree, herbs such as sage and our rose petals. I even use the eucalyptus tree, which is menthol, as it makes great chocolate. We have an indoor barbecue in the kitchen to finish the meats on which uses local wood and gives a terrific flavour.
“Instead of using loads of packaging such as polystyrene and plastic, I send boxes to some of the suppliers which they send back full and then we wash them out and do it all again.”
Julian Carter is head of Hambleton Bakery and its basic principle is to make long fermented bread using local ingredients. Julian says: “We’re a local bakery supplying the East Midlands and we’re spoilt for good produce in the area. We use
cheese such as red Leicester, Lincolnshire poacher and Stilton, local butter, eggs from Melton and milk arrives in churns from the dairy at Belvoir. The meat comes from a butcher in Oakham.
“We try and keep everything in the local economy so that what we buy supports another business. We use the Whissendine windmill as well as Boston windmill for the flour and there’s a spelt farmer in Leicestershire producing flour.
“We have to buy some things from abroad such as chocolate and olives. And as we’re not good at growing bread flour in this country we’re a big believer in using French and German wheat, as it’s only across the Channel, not Canadian or American, which is more usual.
“We only use packaging when customers buy the products so there’s no waste there and we only use plastic bags for sliced breads. The rest of the time it goes into a cardboard box or a waxed paper bag which is compostable.
“We have a wood-fired oven which runs from offcuts from our local estates and costs about £15 per day to fire, which is much cheaper than an electric oven and better because that would be powered by coal somewhere down the line.
“We don’t use additives or preservatives in our products so we make them from scratch and we only bake for the day so any bread left goes to local farmers for their pigs and cows. Nothing goes to landfill.”
Having a wood-burning stove is one of the most cost and energy efficient ways to heat a home and is one of the best types of renewable power you can incorporate, making the most of what is often thought of as waste material.
Kiln dried, seasoned or locally sourced wood used for fuel can easily be replaced by simply growing more trees.
If more people used a stove to heat their home, the UK could become completely self-sufficient in supplying wood fuel harvested from a sustainable source (once our woods were properly managed, maintained and coppiced)
with no net increase in CO2 emissions – the most significant greenhouse gas.
Wood-burning stoves cost around £700-£900 but can start at as little as £450 (Flavel Arundel stove - 4.9kw available from Harborough Stone) and can be installed in the home relatively easily by a Hetas qualified installer. During the winter months they can keep an entire house warm for minimal fuel costs and make a great interior statement all year round.
With so many developments, constantly improving the efficiency of stoves and how they burn, some stoves are now up to 89% efficient, in comparison to an open fire, which averages around 20% efficient. Kim from Harborough Stone says that wood -burning stoves are the
Another thing to think about is where shops get their supplies. Teresa Andrew from Sandalls Butchers in Bourne says she sources her meat and poultry locally – from no more than 40 miles away.“Beef, lamb and pork come to us from farmers or livestock markets, via Lincolnshire Meat Company, our abattoir in Grantham. Where possible we always buy whole carcasses which guarantees the provenance of the meat and means no packaging is used to deliver the meat to our shop,” she says.
“Our chicken is all English with no added water and comes to us via a supplier in Peterborough. We are running down our stock of plastic bags and actively seeking sustainable ways of wrapping up our meat products for the consumer.”
www.sandallsbutchers.co.uk 01778 423301 www.hambletonbakery.co.uk 01572 812995
most efficient in the world, using less fuel and making less of an impact on the environment. (Burley Stoves start at £690, available from Harborough Stone).
Bespoak Timber Frames prides itself on using traditional methods in a modern day world, made by hand in its Leicestershire workshop.
At Bespoak Timber Frames the oak it uses is sourced only from properly managed forests. All the oak is PEFC certified which means it is farmed in a sustainable and ecologically sound manner adhering to the PEFC guidelines.
It builds traditional and contemporary oak frames which are carbon neutral because they are born out of a sustainable source. As the trees grow they absorb carbon from the atmosphere and once harvested into an oak framed building the carbon is locked within the structure.
A green oak frame has a low carbon footprint due to the low energy required in the manufacture to finish process.
Bespoak Timber Frames create living spaces that are sustainable and beautiful, and its frames are designed to be enjoyed for generations to come. The oak frame needs no chemical or preservative treatment which means it is better for you and the environment.
It takes great care as it selects the oak on each project using every part of the beams, even to hand draw the oak pegs from the best knot-free straight grained offcuts, so nothing is wasted.
www.harborough-stone.co.uk 01858 410033
www.bespoaktimberframes.co.uk 01858 443519
Owner Tim Hart reckons he will never turn Hambleton Hall into a spa.
For exercise and relaxation, his philosophy is that the hotel is perfectly placed for guests to venture out to walk in the stunning local countryside around Rutland Water, then settle in after a locally sourced meal beside the log fire or in the gardens, depending on the season.
They have two charging points for electric cars, too. A charmingly old-fashioned, yet also thoroughly modern and sustainable, view of hotel management.
Country Bumpkin Yurts and Waterloo Cottage Farm in Great Oxendon also have healthy living and eco-friendliness at their very core. That’s why they work so well together.
Waterloo Cottage Farm specialises in pasture fed, naturally reared and happy animals that produce the highest quality meat.
They are champions of good health through good food!
Lara and Jen at Country Bumpkin Yurts have created a glamping site that enables you to have an eco retreat you can really feel good about.
By using solar panels, composting toilets, and a wood burning hot tub, the environmental impact of your holiday is tiny.
This Spring, Country Bumpkin Yurts will be
launching the Canvas Café where you can enjoy delicious locally produced food and drink.
Leicestershire and Northamptonshire boast an abundance of high quality produce and they will celebrate and showcase this with their menu in the café. They are passionate about food that is fresh, seasonal, organic and free range.
You can also find them along The Brampton Valley Way, so why not dig out your bicycle and head down the track. Turn off the track just before the Great Oxendon Tunnels and stop off
for lunch in their café. Coffee and cake is amazing fuel.
You can also buy the ingredients for your dinner at Waterloo Cottage Farm. That way you will have a healthy day with super local food, good exercise and the knowledge that you have reduced your carbon footprint.
www.waterloocottagefarm.co.uk 07976 263311
www.hambletonhall.com 01572 756991
www.countrybumpkinyurts.co.uk 07375 024672
We may have moved around a bit, but our philosophy has always been the same – to provide our customer with the best quality, locally reared meat at sensible prices. We are generally cheaper than the supermarkets, which surprises many new customers, plus we have the advantage of knowing exactly where our meat comes from – local farms and livestock markets.
Electric bicycles are not only good for your health, but also for your wallet and the environment too. Lily Canter tests out the latest e-bikes at Rutland Cycling
MANY PEOPLE WISH they could cycle to work but the distance is just that bit too far or there is one horrendous hill they cannot manage. Similarly, going for a leisurely ride at the weekend sounds idyllic but if you are recovering from an injury or find it difficult to keep up with others, then this becomes a non-starter.
But with so many different electric bicycles now on the market, it has never been easier to get on your bike.
Sales of e-bikes have been rising in the UK in recent years with more than 16% of all bicycle purchases now being electric, meaning the country is finally starting to catch up with its European counterparts.
Essentially, e-bikes are the same as an ordinary pedal bike but with an additional electric motor to help you pedal. The brakes, gears and steering all remain the same but you can be given a boost to ride faster or get up hills. UK law restricts the power supplied to the
motor at 15.5mph, meaning the assistance stops when you reach this speed, but you can go faster using pedal power alone.
The bikes are heavier due to the battery and motor, although this is counteracted by the assisted power they give the rider.
Most e-bikes have three or four boost settings and the higher the setting, the more battery you use. On average models can be ridden between 40 and 70 miles on a moderate setting before they require charging and up to 125 miles if used economically.
Charging is straightforward as the battery can be removed from the e-bike and then plugged into the mains for around four hours.
Using an e-bike to cycle to work instead of driving can save you thousands of pounds a year as you have no fuel, insurance, tax or MoT to pay out for.
A recent study published in the British Medical Journal also shows that cycling is fantastic for your health and commuting by bike is
associated with lower risks of cardiovascular disease and cancer. It also means you are not pumping vehicle emissions into the atmosphere, improving air quality for everyone.
And e-bikes are not just for commutes or gentle leisure rides, as there is now a large range of high spec mountain e-bikes. The motor helps you ride up over rocky terrain and then you can simply switch it off and go hell for leather downhill, getting your heart rate up in the process and burning off a few calories.
Due to their increase in popularity e-bikes are now easier to find and are stocked in many of the region’s cycling stores but note: you have to be aged 14 or older to ride one.
Rutland Cycling has six dedicated e-bike centres, including at Whitwell, Normanton and Fineshade Wood, open seven days a week with more than 100 e-bikes in stock. Their prices range from £1,000 to £9,000 to buy, or you can
hire one from £19.99.
The centres also offer free 30-minute test rides or the option to try before you buy by borrowing an e-bike for 48 hours for £49.99.
On May 26 the Whitwell centre will be hosting an electric bike demonstration day where visitors can join a led ride incorporating different terrain and surfaces before having their questions answered by representatives from the world’s best bike brands.
The taster, which runs from 10am to 4pm, is free of charge but booking is essential.
Other stockists in the area include Oakham Cycle Centre which sells Peugeot and Wisper e-bikes which come with a 10-year warranty, including the battery.
Cafe Ventoux in Tugby stocks Forme e-bikes for all purposes including commuter, hybrid and mountain bikes. Prices range from £1,100 to £1,825.
George Hall Cycles in Market Harborough does not stock electric bikes but is able to order them for customers from the Merida, Raleigh and Orbea e-bike ranges.
It is also possible to get retro-fitting kits to convert a normal pedal cycle into a wheel power assisted e-bike which will help you along, but it will not be as powerful as full power assist which magnifies the power you put through the pedals.
And although e-bikes come with a heftier price tag than pedal bikes there is remittance under the Green Commute Initiative. If you are on PAYE and your employer agrees to run the scheme you can save up to 42% on an e-bike by paying for one via tax-free monthly instalments.
For example, if an e-bike costs you £2,452, as a higher rate tax-payer your net monthly cost will be £79 over 18 months, saving you an impressive £1,030.
As for where to ride your e-bike, the beauty of the design is that you can take them anywhere you would take a normal bicycle.
It could be a cycle around the perimeter of Rutland Water or testing out a mountain e-bike on the three-mile trail loop at Wakerley Woods, near Corby.
Further afield there are some excellent trails at Cannock Chase in Staffordshire or you could sign up to a guided ride in the Derbyshire Peak District.
But the best fun can be discovering your own routes closer to home and as long as you stick to roads and bridleways and keep off footpaths you can ensure your ride is legal. So what are you waiting for?
The Old Mill | South Street Oakham | Rutland | LE15 6BG www.cavells.co.uk
The experts at Rutland Cycling suggest six bikes to suit all needs and budgets
KALKHOFF JUBILEE B7 ADVANCE 7G £1,998
This hybrid is a great starter e-bike which will see you through a day’s riding. Whether you want to cycle to the cafe and back or circle around Rutland Water it will provide a comfortable ride. It is ideal for riders who favour comfort over speed and is easy to mount and dismount due to its step through frame.
RALEIGH STOW-E WAY £1,099
KALKHOFF INTEGRALE EXCITE 18 £3,398
Ideal for the fast commuter, this hybrid has a slim, firm seat and suspension to help navigate potholes. The battery will last up to 125 miles allowing you to commute long distance. Pannier racks, lights and mudguards make this bike an ideal commuter / tourer.
SPECIALIZED TURBO KENEVO EXPERT £5,499
This folding e-bike is ideal for commuters who travel partly by train or bus because it is designed to fit into a small space. It is also handy if there is limited storage space at work or you are travelling in a motor home and need a compact bike for nipping to the shops.
This beast of a mountain e-bike can handle almost all terrains and is designed for big jumps and rocky rides. It has adjustable shock and you can custom control the power settings via a ‘mission control’ smartphone app.
TREK POWERFLY 4 WOMEN’S £2,299
This versatile mountain bike can also be used for commuting as it has no suspension at the back, making it a relatively smooth road ride. It is great for travelling to work on but at the weekend you can use it for riding out on trails.
TREK POWERFLY 5 £2,699
This is the next model up from the Powerfly 4 e-bike (left) and the frame’s geometry is more suited to men with different shaped handlebars and a higher crossbar. For an extra £500 you can have the battery integrated into the bike for a more aesthetically pleasing finish.
Six friends (and marathon virgins) are running the London Marathon in Wendy Hetherington’s memory
Six friends from the Stamford area are running the London Marathon on April 22 to raise funds for mental health charities in memory of Wendy Hetherington, who died last year aged 39. Wendy went to school in Stamford and, after university and a period working as a critical care nurse in the Royal London Hospital, returned to Stamford in 2006. She married Will in 2011. Having battled with intermittent bouts of depression over many years, she tragically took her own life last April. But this team of runners are determined to take the London Marathon by storm in memory of an extraordinarily determined and strong lady, who ran the London course herself in 2005. Will said: “Wendy was a beautiful person inside and out who lived life at 100mph and would stop at nothing to help a friend in need. My time with her was far, far too brief, but it was packed full of love, friendship and adventure, leaving me with thousands of happy memories. And when I see the sheer determination of these six incredible people, I
know that Wendy’s warrior spirit is being channelled in the right direction to help many more people in the future. I can’t wait to watch them take London by storm.”
The runners, who are all marathon first timers, are led by Wendy’s sister, Kerry Tanner,
and four of them ran the Stamford Striders Valentine 30km on February 11. This is a notoriously difficult run and Kerry, Simone Ashley-Norman, Zoe Wurfel and Sophie Cornish met the challenge head-on. In freezing temperatures and high winds all four of them exceeded their expectations and showed impressive determination and fitness levels. Also running the marathon will be Ellie Evans and Felix Cunningham, who were unable to run the Valentine event due to illness and injury.
Kerry added: “Wendy was quite simply ‘my amazing wee sister’, a passionate and determined character with a very kind and thoughtful heart. She was so full of life and purpose that it is hard to believe I won’t see her cheeky grin again. I feel incredibly privileged to call this team my dear friends. We have all come together to run the London Marathon for Wendy. She has never left our side, she has given us all the courage to tackle this head-on and keep going. It’s the way she would have wanted it, leading us from the front.’
The intrepid team are raising funds for Mind, YoungMinds, The Mental Health Foundation and the Cavernoma Alliance (Ellie’s daughter Ffion suffers from cavernoma, a rare brain condition).
If you would like to support them, please search for them individually on virginmoneygiving.com
Brooks tells us how he got on when he competed in the Clipper Round the
The Forever Tropical Paradise race from the Whitsunday Islands to Sanya in China is the official name for race seven of the Clipper Round the World 2017-18 series yacht race, and this was the leg I was sailing in.
Race rules meant no sailing until we had cleared the Great Barrier Reef. We then got under sail and were at the head of the fleet as we set a course north-east across the Coral Sea towards the Solomon Islands before entering the doldrums to the east of Papua New Guinea.
Flat seas and a gentle breeze meant slow progress towards China, but nothing prepared me for the heat. It was 40°C outside, and hotter below deck, 24 hours a day with very little wind to cool us down. But it was truly amazing to be out sailing at long last. The race was expected to take 26 days to travel 4,800 nautical miles.
Tactically, we decided to take a more easterly course, a longer overall route but with the hope of picking up the north-easterly trade winds more quickly. Other crews had a similar plan so a tactical race was developing.
We had been experiencing problems with the kite (spinnaker). Bob the skipper decided that we needed to change the spinnakers. So I volunteered to go up the mast to retrieve the halyard. With the rope secured that was going to hoist me up the mast and with climbing harness on, I set off up the 98-foot mast with the boat moving at 11 knots in a 17-knot wind. While I was at the top of the mast, about an hour before sunset, I looked around. It was a magnificent sight. Looking down and seeing the majestic tear-drop shaped outline of the hull against the darkness of the ocean, and the blue of the sky with the red hint of the sunset was breath taking. I attached the halyard that was to be retrieved to my harness and prepared for the
descent. This was the tricky bit. On the grinders you are brought up at a constant rate. A person on the deck easing the line off the winch to bring you down is slow and jerky. I was only down seven or eight feet when I started to swing. On the way up this isn’t so bad, but on the way down the opposite is true. Gravity pulls you vertically down. But with the boat on a heal, this was about 20 foot leeward of the deck. Needless to say it proved difficult and I managed to wreck my knee, wrench my ankle and lose a shoe into the ocean. Getting me back on took about 30 minutes, and I can tell you it seemed much longer than that!
We started the ocean sprint, to the north-east of the Philippines in fourth position. We got extra points being the third fastest in the fleet to complete the sprint. Now for the final push across the South China Sea.
The South China Sea is well known for two things, frequent wind-holes where boats can suddenly become becalmed, and some of the busiest shipping lanes in the world. The next five days were spent trying to dodge both!
The constant sail changes needed to maintain boat speed was a challenge, we failed to drop a lightweight spinnaker in time before a squall hit the boat, damaged the sail, and lost all momentum. From then on we were playing catch-up. Eventually we crossed the finish line in fifth, completing the race in 23 days, exhausted, but proud to have competed so well with only 12 crew.
It was amazing to have completed my first ocean race. I was exhilarated and emotional that I had done this. Now it’s time to catch up on some much needed sleep.
www.clipperroundtheworld.com
Runner Mark Alderson and his two team-mates, are tackling the toughest footrace in the world this month
Do you remember Mark Alderson who was going to run the Marathon des Sables, and then had to put it on hold for a while? Well, he’s back and along with two running mates, estate agent Emma Sowden and Andy Dennis, is heading to Morocco to run in blistering heat starting on April 8. “We will run, walk or even crawl if we have to,” says Mark, as they are absolutely determined to finish. And they might have to. The Marathon des Sables, known as the toughest footrace in the world, is a gruelling multi-stage multiple marathon race across one of the hottest spots on Earth – the Sahara Desert. Competitors carry their own gear over 156 miles for six days, and will have to endure blistering heat, run up and down desert dunes and cope with raging sandstorms in possibly one of the hardest physical races they have ever run. The intrepid trio have been training hard and are proud to be part of the Walking with the Wounded team raising funds for the Head Start programme which provides therapy for ex-service personnel with mental health difficulties. They also intend to raise money for Sue Ryder’s Thorpe Hall and the Royal Marsden cancer charity, two charities close to Mark’s heart. They are determined to finish and raise as much money as possible, and next month will tell us how they got on.
To support them please go to https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ MarkAlderson
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Induction
Being unable to swim, cycle or run under doctors orders wasn’t the best start to my training for The Dambuster. Thankfully, I’ve now at least been given the go ahead to swim and cycle.
While I can get from one end of a pool to the other, I resemble more that of a fully-loaded container ship struggling to stay afloat in a rough sea than a triathlete. So having done a few solo sessions in the pool, I headed back to see Mary Hardwick at Inspire2Tri for some vital technique advice. Her endless pool has vents that push out a regular current and there are cameras pointing in all directions so she can really pin down what you’re doing right and, more so in my case, wrong to help rectify any bad habits.
After confirming she wasn’t going to set the vents at a rate that would see me pinned to the back of the pool, I jumped in. In what seemed like no time at all Mary had me looking like a swimmer. Her suggestions quickly saw my stroke driving me forwards and lifting me higher in the water, which also helped my breathing, handy when under water.
Since then I’ve been swimming three times a week at Stamford School Sports Centre, in their 25m pool. My times are coming down too. A 1,600m swim at the start was taking well over 40 minutes. After seeing Mary, and having put in the regular training, I’m already seeing my times improve to around the 34-minute mark.
Cycling is something I’ve done a bit of, but normally just the odd steady ride around Rutland Water, stopping at the various watering holes en route. I’ve never actually sat on a road bike before, let alone owned one.
Having kindly been lent a bike by a friend, I headed to Rutland Cycling to work out what I needed to do from there. I’d been on the Watt bikes at the gym so I knew my first requirement was a pair of padded shorts. After a brief chat with Chris in store I left the bike with him as he
Due to the physical and mental demands of the challenge ahead I’ve decided to raise money for Mind to help raise awareness of mental health, in memory of a close friend.
If you’d like to donate please go to www.virginmoneygiving.com/ ChrisMMeadows. Thank you in advance.
politely suggested it needed a little TLC before I took it on the road. When I returned to collect the bike, Chris took me through the bike fit
AMY ROBERTS,
ADVERTISING SALES
With the half-marathon only a few weeks away I’ve upped the training regime.
With a few long runs under my belt I’m building up my ability to get around the Rutland half marathon.
With the snow recurring and living on country roads it’s been difficult, but I’ve been trying to not let it affect me too much. I got out for some lovely 6.30am hilly runs, and it was pretty cold, so definitely time for layering up.
My real downfall is the nutrition side and making sure I eat the right foods at the right time, so I’ve booked personal trainer Dani who’s going to really help me in up my fitness levels
and nutrition to give me the best chance of getting round. I may even plan another challenge if I get through this one.
With the Swayfield Stragglers attacking personal bests at the Rutland Water Parkruns it really gets you motivated to push the boundaries – thanks to Ross who runs with me to make sure I don’t have a cheeky walk. Having done the Great Eastern Run, which is a flatter, this is going to be a tough challenge with the ups and downs of Rutland Water’s terrain.
So with my family’s support I’m ready to attack the Rutland half-marathon.
process to ensure it was set-up to my specific physiological characteristics, which I’m sure will make a big difference to the comfort and enjoyment when out on the road. I’d fully recommend the process to all.
Now I’ve got the bike, I’m fully kitted out in lycra and road shoes and am ready to become Rutland’s newest member of the Mamil club.
Nutrition is still key too and more visits to Dawn Revens from The Compeater, cutting-out refined carbohydrates and the training I’ve been doing to date have seen me lose four kilograms already. I’m sure with the training ramping up nutrition will become key. Dawn has more tests to unleash on me, all non-invasive apparently thankfully though.
I now just need to start doing some running…
JULIA DUNGWORTH, EQUESTRIAN CORRESPONDENT
After a very long hard winter, finally Gala and I have managed to start our competition season, with our first run being at Oasby.
We were one of the lucky ones that got to run before the event was cancelled. Gala has settled really well over the winter with a lot of schooling: he has a rather overactive flight mechanism which has been subdued by adding soundproof ear covers into the mix, however this was clearly not quite enough to cope with first competition of the season, where I can only describe my dressage as
STEVE MOODY, EDITOR
An interesting thing has happened to my golf game. I am hitting the ball miles better than I ever have, but my scores aren’t really coming down. This is not the time to panic though.
I’ve been working through the mechanics of my swing with Burghley Park pro Mark Jackson, getting into stronger and more consistent positions, and although it’s been tough, required hitting thousands of balls, and early on I actually started playing worse, the overall effect has been stark: every iron and wood is now travelling higher, straighter and longer. I feel I can repeat my swing and know the outcome every time. In the last few rounds I can count the poor tee and fairway shots on one hand.
My driving’s been transformed: especially as I’ve corrected a bowed left wrist that was making me flip my hands at the ball and smack it to all parts of Lincolnshire, and now I am hitting it straight, long and true.
So there is hope, because the foundation feels like it is there to start scoring low. Thanks
dreadful! Riding a horse which you cannot put your leg on, means you are only steering a ship (and hanging on for grim death at some points). Show-jumping was much the same, with a disappointing three rails down.
Then on to the cross country, and it suddenly occurred to me in the warm-up that I haven’t jumped so much as a twig all winter! But that was no problem for Gala; we had a lovely steady clear round, which made me remember exactly why I think he’s destined for the top.
The following weekend, we were straight back up to Lincoln for our second run, which was very similar, but much improved in all three phases.
Bizarrely we were given a worst mark for our dressage, but we were far from last, one show jump down on a much bigger track and again awesome cross-county which meant we narrowly missed the prizes by finishing eleventh.
Then the following day, we went straight on to arena UK for the Dodson and Horrell Masterclass, where Gala and I were guinea pigs for paralympian Sophie Wells. We managed to impress quite a few people with our ability to do many 8-10m circles and then did a few jumps with a psychologist to talk through what I think about while jumping fences.
The main thing to take from the day was that everyone got to see Gala’s amazing potential and what a beautiful horse he is.
KATE MAXIM, EDITORIAL AND PRODUCTION ASSISTANT
One side effect of this challenge is that it’s making me get out and do some exercise when, ordinarily, I’d probably put it off and I’ve lost a few pounds as a result.
During the weekend of The Beast from the East I was happily ensconced in front of the fire when my friend Emma, who has recently moved into my village, invited me out on a run, knowing I needed some encouragement.
“You’re mad,” I said. “The roads are closed and there are snowdrifts as high as the hedges in places.”
Seemingly nothing fazes Emma so off we went into what felt like Arctic conditions. The route she’d planned was blocked with the drifts so we changed direction and ran across ploughed fields. With rasping breath and plenty of walking I made it home to dry my feet in front of the fire. But I did feel energised an hour later! Similarly I wouldn’t normally run when I stay with my mum in the Fens but I need to increase my distance and my pace if I’m going to do 5K in 35 minutes or under. So she dropped me off on the way back from the shops and I ran 1.5 miles in 16 minutes.
to Mark, I know what I do when I get it wrong, and I know what right feels like. If you play golf regularly and haven’t gone through a structured programme like the one Mark lays out, I can thoroughly recommend it. The odd lesson trying to correct a problem can help, but a process over a few months is transformative. Problem is, I’m not scoring low. My short game has been dreadful, and it’s costing me. Wedges from 70-90 yards are all over the pace, my chipping is guesswork and the putting can be OK one day and appalling the next.
But as I say, there is hope. Playing in the muddy conditions of the first three months of this year’s terrible weather is hardly conducive to a consistent short game but as the weather improves this should improve too, and Mark and I haven’t touched this side of my play yet.
If he can have the same effect on my short game as he has had on my long, there’s a chance by the autumn I might just (just!) get somewhere near my goal of playing to 7.
I do still find it tedious but looking over hedges into people’s gardens kept me occupied for most of it – I obviously haven’t quite got into the zone yet. The problem is the Fens are flat and the route at the Rutland Water Parkrun isn’t, and I’ll need to keep up that pace for the second half to finish in the time.
Where to park
On the spur road off the main street opposite the church in Horninghold.
Distance and time
Four and a half miles/an hour and a half.
Highlights
It’s claimed Horninghold is the prettiest village in Leicestershire. That’s subjective but there’s no doubt it’s a beautiful village, as is Blaston. And the views from Burn Hill and Belcher’s Hill are pretty special too.
Lowlights
The villages might be pretty but neither of them have a pub. It’s an exposed route so perhaps not one for a cold and windy day.
Refreshments
The Bewicke Arms or The Fox at Hallaton.
Difficulty rating
Three paws; it’s quite hilly but generally it doesn’t feel too challenging.
The pooch perspective
There were a lot of dogs barking at Knob Hill Farm, so be warned. Other than that I didn’t see a lot of livestock the day I did this walk. There’s not much in the way of fresh water so be prepared if it’s a hot day.
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.
These two pretty villages are neatly linked by the sweeping Nene Way as it follows the river from Oundle to Peterborough. By
Photography: Will Hetherington
Difficulty rating (out of five)
THE ROUTE
Park near the Black Horse pub on the southern edge of Nassington, or in the pub car park if you plan on spending some money here. Almost directly opposite the pub the Nene Way heads east so take this path and you will come to a raised bridge over the river within 200 yards.
From the bridge there are stunning views of the Nene north and south as it meanders through the flood plain. Follow the path as it gradually
Will Hetherington
curves round to the north and briefly passes along the side of a smaller tributary of the Nene. There are plenty of opportunities for the dogs to take a cooling dip here. Keep heading north through a small patch of woodland and you will very quickly come to Yarwell Mill and the lock. This area has been a popular holiday site for many years and the mill has recently been completely renovated and there are an increasing number of park homes surrounding it.
When you reach the mill turn left and left again to the start of the exit road from the complex and near the bottom of the hill you will see the footpath heading off to the right towards Yarwell. Take this path and you will enjoy a raised view of the holiday park below, before passing some
horses and alpacas on the way into Yarwell. When you reach Mill Road in Yarwell you will see a footpath going between some houses almost directly opposite. (If you have time and want to do an extended route you can turn right into the village and take a stroll up to Wansford and seek refreshment in the Paper Mills).
Take this footpath and go past the playground before turning left on to the main Wansford Road for 200 yards. You will then see the obvious bridleway heading off on the right south-west towards Nassington. Take this path and cross the stream at the ford and dismantled railway before re-entering Nassington.
Make your way back to the pub past the grand church of St Mary the Virgin and All Saints and the Grade I listed Prebendal Manor, which is the oldest surviving residential dwelling in Northamptonshire.
Either near the Black Horse pub or in the pub car park if you intend to spend some money there when you have finished.
Distance and time
Three miles/approximately one hour. But you can extend this walk easily by either heading up to Wansford and back from Yarwell or taking a longer loop to the west between Yarwell and Nassington on the way back.
Highlights
The impressive Nene meandering through the floodplain. Yarwell Mill and lock. Nassington church and the Prebendal Manor. There are plenty of pubs around here. And it’s a pleasing loop.
Lowlights
At three miles this route is not the longest but there are a number of ways you can extend it if you wish. One look at the OS map should make that clear.
Refreshments
The Black Horse and Queen’s Head in Nassington. The Angel Inn and the Riverside Cafe in Yarwell and the Paper Mills in Wansford.
Difficulty rating
One paw; there’s nothing tricky here, except the bridleway back to Nassington can get a bit muddy.
The pooch perspective
Your dogs will love this walk. They can cool off down by the Nene and run freely in the pastures nearby. They will have to go on the lead through Yarwell Mill and the village but they can enjoy the bridleway back to Nassington.
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.
Rutland Cycling’s Sally Middlemiss traces the first half of the Tour of Cambridgeshire route, before taking a short cut back to the start
This month, Rutland Cycling’s Sally Middlemiss has collaborated with Tour of Cambridgeshire co-founder Malcolm Smith to bring us a 50-mile road route inspired by the Tour of Cambridgeshire Gran Fondo, a closed-road cycling event taking place on Sunday, June 3.
The gran fondo is the only closed-road race of its kind in the UK and has been growing in profile since its inception three years ago. This ride traces the first half of the Tour of Cambridgeshire before taking a short cut through Holme to return to the start point. Get route notes and download a GPX file for your GPS computer at https://ridewithgps.com/ routes/27026546. Enjoy the ride!
THE ROUTE
Start: Rutland Cycling Peterborough, PE2 5UU (parking available)
● Exit the store and at the roundabout, take the 3rd exit on to Oundle Rd/A605 0.1 km
● At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit and stay on Oundle Rd/A605 1.2 km
● Continue straight on to Oundle Rd 3.0 km
● Turn left on to Bullock Rd 5.4 km
● Turn left on to Washingley Ln 11.7 km
● Turn right on to Washingley Rd 14.5 km
● Slight right to stay on Washingley Rd 14.9 km
● Turn right 15.0 km
● Continue on to Redhill Rd 15.8 km
● Turn left on to Bullock Rd 17.9 km
● Turn right on to B660 20.4 km
● Turn left on to B660 28.9 km
● Turn left at Main St 29.2 km
● Continue on to Buckworth Rd 36.7 km
● Turn left on to North Rd 37.5 km
● Continue on to Vinegar Hill 37.9 km
● Turn left on to Alconbury Hill 39.7 km
● Turn right on to Ermine St/B1043 40.0 km
● At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit on to B1090 44.0 km
● Turn left on to Bridge St 47.3 km
● Continue on to The Green 48.2 km
● Continue on to Raveley Rd 48.2 km
● Turn left on to Huntingdon Rd 53.2 km
● Turn left on to Ramsey Rd 55.2 km
● Continue on to Longholme Rd 55.5 km
● Continue on to Ugg Mere Ct Rd 57.5 km
● Turn left on to Holme Rd/B660 61.0 km
● Turn right on to Church St 68.5 km
● Turn left on to Station Rd/B660 68.7 km
● Turn left on to Short Drove 69.1 km
● Turn right to stay on Short Drove 69.2 km
● Turn left on to Hod Fen Drove 69.6 km
● Continue on to Holme Rd 73.3 km
● Turn left on to Church St 73.8 km
● Slight left on to Waterslade Rd 74.4 km
● Slight left on to London Rd/A15 74.7 km
● Turn right on to New Rd 76.2 km
● New Rd turns slightly left and becomes Haddon Rd 78.9 km
● Turn right 80.6 km
● Turn left 80.8 km
● Turn right on to Bullock Rd 82.8 km
● Turn right on to Oundle Rd 84.5 km
● At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit on to Oundle Rd/A605 88.7 km
● At the roundabout, take the 1st exit on to Ham Lane to complete the route.
RIDE WITH SALLY AND MALCOLM!
If you’re thinking of taking part in this year’s gran fondo – there are a number of distance options aimed at all cyclists – or are training for a sportive or challenge ride, then join Sally and Malcolm for a led training ride at a steady pace (12-15mph), along our featured 50-mile route. These training rides are free to join and places are limited, so advance booking is essential.
When: April 28 and May 12, 10am
Where: Rutland Cycling Peterborough, PE2 5UU (parking available).
Book at: www.rutlandcycling.com/ rides
WOMEN’S CYCLING EVENINGS: PREPARING FOR A GRAN FONDO OR SPORTIVE
Ladies, if you’re considering this year’s gran fondo (or another sportive) and would like some top tips from those who’ve been there and done it, then head along to these free evening seminars, jointly led by Golazo Cycling (the Tour of Cambridgeshire organiser) and Rutland Cycling. In an informal setting, Malcolm, Sally and Jess will cover items such as your bike and essential kit, training and nutrition, and how to maximise enjoyment on the day.
When/where: April 11, 6-7.30pm at Rutland Cycling Histon, CB24 9JD, or April 18 at Rutland Cycling Peterborough, PE2 5UU Book at: www.rutlandcycling.com/ rides
WOMEN’S BREEZE RIDES
Breeze is British Cycling’s campaign to get more women riding bikes for fun!
In the Stamford and Rutland area, there is an active group of volunteer Breeze Champions (trained British Cycling ride leaders), who organise regular women-only Breeze rides, including traffic-free rides, mums and tots rides and road training rides. The rides are all free to join and go at a steady pace. With distances ranging from 6 to 45 miles, there’s a Breeze ride for you, whatever your ability or fitness level.
Find out more at www.letsride. co.uk/breeze or check out the local Breeze Facebook page: www. facebook.com/breezebikerides
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Martin Johnson thinks it might be time to put a limit on the amount alcohol at games. And possibly a limit on Americans too…
The opponents of capital punishment are nothing if not well intentioned, and I’d normally give considerable latitude to their belief that only the Great Architect should have the power to decide between life and death. I’m willing to bet, however, that none of them has ever been to an American golf tournament, where it is virtually a condition of entry that – one nanosecond after a player has struck his ball – some chump in the gallery will shout “go in the hole!” In such moments the only struggle with your conscience is whether to plump for the electric chair or lethal injection.
And the airheads were in the news again at the recent Arnold Palmer tournament in Florida when Rory McIlroy complained about spectator behaviour – even worse than usual in the zoolike environment accompanying Tiger Woods’ latest comeback. “There was one guy out there who kept shouting my wife’s name,” said McIlroy. “I think it’s gotten (sic) a little much. I think they need to limit alcohol sales on the course, because every week, guys are complaining about it more and more.”
American golf galleries have always sailed close to the boundaries of etiquette, and when a tubby bloke with a crew cut started beating their hero Palmer back in the 1960s, Jack Nicklaus would look up to see a group of spectators by the side of a water hazard with a placard that read: “Hit It In Here Fat Boy!”
As for the alcohol issue, no-one can quite work out why there are restrictions at American football and baseball matches, but not at golf tournaments... where the problem is exacerbated by the fact that spectators are very often within touching distance of the players. So close, in fact, that many of them have taken nasty blows to the head – although in America this is not thought to involve much of a risk to brain cells.
The golfer who’s had more grief from American golf fans than anyone is Scotland’s Colin Montgomerie, and the abuse once got nasty enough for his Ryder Cup opponent, Payne Stewart, to concede their match. Albeit with the USA already having won. It had as much to do with the way he looked than anything else. When Monty wobbled on a golf course, it was not so much a reference going through a bad patch with his golf as his ample figure, and when he was unhappy with his shot – and no-one did unhappiness like he did – there would be an inevitable cry of “keep your chins up Monty!” Ironic really given that most of his tormentors were the size of one of the overhead camera blimps.
You could argue that most sports have become more spectatorunfriendly down the years, especially football. If you take a look at some of those old black and white FA Cup final newsreels, the height of unruly behaviour appears to be whirring a rattle and
throwing your trilby in the air when someone scored, and there was a time when there wasn’t a single soccer fan who arrived home with the same hat he set out with. These days, though, opposing fans have to be segregated, and sexual and racial abuse is by no means uncommon.
Cricket spectating has changed appreciably as well, although not to the extent that players are demanding alcohol restrictions. You run the risk, it’s true, of permanent damage to the inner ear should you stand too close to the Barmy Army trumpeter, and not everyone derives enjoyment from a day at the Test match when he’s sandwiched between half a dozen blokes dressed as bananas, and a crowd of bearded St Trinians’ schoolgirls. Sit there dressed in your normal gear these days, and someone will eventually say: “Go on then, I give up. What have you come as?”
It’s probably more to do with dwindling attention spans rather than anything else, and I was reading the other day that humans (eight seconds on average) now rank above goldfish (nine seconds) in the length of time they need to send a text message. Or whatever the piscatorial equivalent is.
I enjoy rugby matches less than I used to, ever since the Premiership clubs decided that the half-time interval was an ideal opportunity to hand over a microphone to a nitwit – usually from the local radio station – with a masters degree in talking non-stop twaddle in a very loud voice. Whatever happened to the notion that a trip to the pie stall, and a chat to your neighbour about the ups and downs of the first half, was an integral part of the match day experience?
Even in the old amateur days, however, when rugby was the kind of game that had international prop forwards ending up in hospital after swigging aftershave at the post-match dinner, it had never had an alcohol issue on the terraces. There can’t be too much wrong when the only serious breaches of etiquette involve people whistling when a goal kicker is lining up a penalty.
As for the American golf fan, limiting alcohol intake would be a step in the right direction, although the main problem – given that most them have never left the country – is that they have no idea of what’s going on in the rest of the world, and therefore no concept of acceptable behaviour.
I have heard it said that Americans are so insulated from the outside world that they think the Second World War was won by John Wayne, at which point I feel I must spring to their defence. Only half of them think the war was won by John Wayne. The other half believe it was Tom Hanks.
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?’.
WAINWRIGHT
& others
Witham Hall, near Stamford withamhall.com
Stamford School celebrated more success at representative level on the rugby pitch this year.
England Counties U18s: Harry Clayton and Ed Cox have been selected to play for a tour to Ireland in April. They gained their places after competing for the Midlands U18 team in a number of trial matches.
Netherlands U18s/U20s: Dave Koelman and Lodi Buijs have been named in the Dutch youth squad, with Dave selected for the European U18 Championships being held in Poland at the end of March.
England Lambs U18s: Byron Van Uden has gained selection to the England Lambs side who play a number of regional and academy fixtures before heading off to tour Italy and Croatia.
Leicester Tigers Academy: Shaun Allsop, Zack Godfrey and Dave Koelman were part of the
Leicester Tigers Academy side which won Premiership Rugby’s U18s Academy Championship for the first time following a huge win against Gloucester. At the U16 age grade, Joey Evison has been playing in the Leicester Tigers Academy Player Development Group with some success while
also playing for Nottingham County Cricket Club Academy. Joey joined the NCCCA for its pre-season training camp in Oman.
Senior coach Austin Kersey said: “The lads deserve a massive pat on the back for the work they have done off the field and should enjoy their opportunities.”
Ten sailors from Oakham School and two from Stamford are flying to Florida to take part in the RS Feva World Championships this Easter – the only school team on the roster.
If this wasn’t impressive enough, half of the UK’s representation at the event will be from Rutland. A total of 50 boats are taking part from countries all over the world, with 13 boats from the UK – an impressive six of which are from Rutland.
“Oakham has a national reputation for sailing,” says director of sailing Nick Neve. “We have an incredible pool of home-grown sailing talent – with pupils who tried sailing for the first time as part of our activity programme now representing Great Britain at a world championships.”
The young sailors will arrive a few days before the
opening ceremony, on April 3, to acclimatise and spend some time getting used to the sailing conditions. Racing begins on April 4.
The U16s hockey squad from Stamford School have been crowned East Champions and are through to the England Hockey Schools Championships national finals.
With a 5-0 win against The Leys and a 3-0 win against The Perse in a terrific final demonstrating strong skill, the Stamford School U16s hockey squad gained automatic
qualification to the England Hockey Schools Championships national finals. The U16s qualified for the East Regional Finals at the end of February, winning four games out of four, scoring 16 goals and conceding none in the process. They are clearly a very capable team.
Coach Brendan Morris was full of praise for the team saying: “This
Witham Hall’s biathlon team has qualified for the National Schools’ Biathlon Championships in London.
Eliza Mardon, Matilda Halford and Ffion Trundell competed in freezing temperatures and driving snow out on the track.
Eliza was the top placed competitor on the day, despite being one of the youngest in the U12 age group.
On the Sunday Angus McKay and Jack Braddock both competed in the U11 boys’ category, despite being an academic year apart. Jack came home eighth overall.
North Luffenham Golf Club is running an inter-sports club competition for clubs with junior and youth sections.
The nine-hole stableford competition will require a team of three golfers, preferably with handicaps, although anybody who does not have an official handicap will receive the maximum allowance. A club member will join each team and will act as host and scorer.
The date for the competition is Saturday, May 12. Any clubs interested should email club captain Andrew Boyce (andrew. boyce4@btinternet.com).
achievement is testament to their efforts, dedication and willingness in hockey but more importantly, doing the hard yards for the team. To score 24 goals and keep six clean sheets is utterly fantastic.
“The team’s aim was to get to the nationals and they have not wavered from this aim. I challenge the team now to go for gold at the next stage.”
Spratton Hall attended the Warwick Prep School cross-country event with their Years 3 and 4 girls teams, and were overall winners in each race, beating eight other schools to gain each title.
The school then achieved a double when both the U13 and U11 netball teams qualified for the National IAPS netball finals.
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Charlotte Bolton secured third place at the National Junior Indoor Rowing Championships held at the Lee Valley Athletics Centre, London, in the Year 10 sprint race rowing 1,313 meters in five minutes.
In her first year with the GB Rowing Development Programme, Charlotte, who goes to Stamford High School, has gone from strength to strength with her commitment and training paying huge dividends.
London Youth Rowing launched the National Junior Indoor Rowing Championships (NJIRC) in 2007 in partnership with the famous Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race, and it has grown rapidly into a very popular event with thousands of rowers from across the UK participating each year.
FAMILIES and young children are being invited to join a charity mile-long fun run to support the work of the Joe Humphries Memorial Trust (JHMT).
Joe’s Jog, now in its fifth year, will take place before the Mattioli Woods Rothley 10k running event which takes place in the Leicestershire village on June 12.
Joe was 14 when he collapsed and died suddenly while out jogging near his Rothley home. Since Joe’s death, the JHMT continues to raise awareness of SADS and sudden heart deaths. The charity provides free CPR training, helps to fund community defibrillators and campaigns for better understanding of SADS.
Steve Humphries, chairman of the JHMT, said: “Nearly 250 runners took part last year and
there was such a great community spirit. There was a real buzz to the evening and everyone had a fabulous time. We are hoping for a huge turnout as the event is becoming more popular every year.”
The event will start at 6.15pm. Advance entry costs £5 for adults
and £3 for children (minimum age 7). On-the-day entry costs £10 for adults and £6 for children.
All funds raised from Joe’s Jog will go towards JHMT’s vital work to create a heart safe community for all.
To take part in Joe’s Jog, enter at: http://jhmt.org.uk/joes-jog
This has been a phenomenal season for Oakham School’s rugby players who have accrued an impressive tally of successes, from international honours to championship title wins.
Three students have been selected to play for their country:
• Cameron Jordan, a sports scholar, has been called up to the England U18 squad.
• Sam Costelow has been called up to play for the Welsh U18 squad.
• Isaac Thompson, who is sport award holder at Oakham, has been called up to the England Counties U18s.
Both Cameron and Sam have also enjoyed team success, helping the Leicester Tigers U18 team become championship winners. Cameron captained the unbeaten Academy team to a 43-21 victory over Gloucester at Allianz Park.
“Rugby at Oakham continues to go from strength to strength,” says director of rugby, Andy Rice.
“We have a strong rugby heritage, with alumni including Lewis Moody, Alex Goode, Tom Croft, Matt Smith and Hamish Watson. What we are clearly seeing is the next generation of rugby players coming through and we will certainly be watching them with interest over the coming years.”
Isabel Spinley was in exceptional form at the British Swimming Championships, making two ‘B’ finals against the country’s top swimmers and smashing two Lincolnshire long course county records.
The 17-year-old represented Deepings Swimming Club in four events, which were held at the 50-metre Royal Commonwealth pool in Edinburgh: 50m, 100m and 200m butterfly, and 400m individual medley.
Isabel’s best performances came in the longer butterfly events. In the 100m, she finished third in the ‘B’ final in a new age-group Lincolnshire long course county record, while in the 200m fly ‘B’ final she went one better, touching in second place and setting yet another county record.
The butterfly specialist also swam well in the 50m heats, breaking the age-group county record but narrowly missing out on the final.
Isabel now holds the county records for 100m and 200m butterfly at the 15, 16 and 17 age groups and for 50m butterfly at 16 and 17.
Deepings’ Bailie Harrison also qualified for the 50m butterfly, but the recent snow disruption meant she was unable to travel.
Lynn Chapman, Deepings Swimming Club head coach, said: “Isabel is a great role model for our swimmers. We’re disappointed for Bailie, but I’m sure she’ll be back to compete in the future.”
BY JEREMY BESWICK
THE INTERNATIONAL BREAK – and the snow –were jointly responsible for a shorter local fixture list than usual this month but there is still much to report.
Despite losing away to those bruisers Belgrave 45-7, Oakham seem to have secured their place in Midlands 2 East (South) by defeating Long Buckby at home the following weekend.
Oaks drew first blood after some good work from Steve Dachtler enabled Owen Smith to touch down; his try converted by the ever-reliable Callum Crellin However, Buckby would have felt they were back into the match as Dachtler saw yellow a quarter-of-an-hour later. Following a long spell of the opposing forwards dominating play, he was controversially deemed to have lifted in the tackle. The penalty that ensued made it 7-3 and it took all of the home side’s grit and determination to keep the score that way until half time.
Despite Oaks being back to full strength a couple of minutes after the restart with Dachtler’s return, Buckby continued to dominate possession, albeit limiting their attacking threat to one-dimensional use of brute force.
The predictability helped Oaks stand firm and, indeed, they were the ones to come closest to a try with a rare break out from defence, Crellin’s clever kick and chase down being disallowed by the referee in what was a marginal decision. He awarded a penalty in consolation, however, and Crellin again made no mistake.
Back came Buckby with more of the same, but heroics in defence from Oakham – with skipper Will Armstrong leading from the front as ever – kept them at bay until the visiting forwards finally ran out steam.
The match ended with Oaks on the ascendancy as a result although there was to be no further score. They currently sit ninth in the table but, more importantly, 14 points clear of the drop zone.
Six places above them, Market Harborough are very much in contention for promotion, a single point behind second placed Luton and only five off leaders Oadby Wyggs.
They opened March with a home fixture against sixth-placed Market Bosworth and started strongly with early tries for Ed Parker and Loz Joel which gave them a 14-0 lead at the break but, like Oakham, they needed some resolute defending to keep the visitors out.
Tim Brown, in particular, was to the fore including “a galloping run that hit a maul with such intensity that it probably got picked up by the British Geological Survey seismology team,” according to the club.
After a start to the second period that continued in the same vein, Harborough gradually worked their way back into periods of possession and were rewarded with a third try as Joe Whitworth went over and a fourth came from half-time substitute Michael Woodford.
The Bosworth forwards were still in the ascendancy but failing to create clear chances and another breakaway try from Harry Durham completed Harborough’s scoring.
Bosworth nearly landed a consolation at the end but were held up on the line to make the final score 35-0.
A trip to promotion rivals Luton followed for a game that had been postponed from two weeks before.
The home side had just defeated leaders Oadby so were plainly in fine form but Harborough started brightly and scored an interception try through Laurence Joel
Josh Purnell slotted the conversion continuing his 100% accuracy from a week earlier, although he was later to miss a penalty on the half hour, a period that had seen the Black Cats probe for openings and twice gone close with nothing to show.
With 40 minutes gone they threw the ball into touch
believing time was up but, as the referee disagreed, that proved to be a huge miscalculation. In the resulting confusion, Luton scored from a line out to give them a somewhat fortunate parity going into the second period.
Nevertheless, Harborough were once again on the front foot for the first exchanges that followed including some barnstorming runs from Jack Digby but Luton held firm and gradually began to forge chances of their own.
Their fly-half Rik Hobbs was at the centre of much of their more inventive play and it was his kick that led to them taking the lead as an unpredictable bounce led to Luton scoring a try of their own.
Ed Sumpter then came close for Harborough after a 50 yard run, only to be denied close to the line by the cover defence.
With time up they launched one final assault on Luton’s line but were ultimately repelled to make the final score 14-7 and leave the promotion race wide open.
After playing bottom-placed Stamford, Harborough will travel to table-topping Oadby in a fixture which may well define their season.
Both congratulations and commiserations are due to Bourne. They will play in Midlands 3 East (South) next year having clinched promotion in the best possible way with a demolition of local rivals Deepings in front of their fans at Milking Nook Drive.
Rob Bentley opened the scoring almost straight from the kick off, Dave Maudsley added a second on the stroke of half time and two penalties from Sam Evison early in the second stretched their lead.
With Deepings rather letting the occasion get to them, and losing their discipline, full back Jack Berry added two more tries and, as the teams tired, there were another brace before the final whistle to make it an emphatic 46-0.
Alas, the perfect month escaped them as they were unable to land the Junior Vase, losing in the final to Eccleshall 13-27 in arctic conditions.
Coach Maudsley said: “Regardless of the result we’ve had a great season and I couldn’t be more proud of the lads. They’re growing as a side and they’re growing as individuals, both as rugby players and young men, and I consider myself very lucky to be involved with them.”
Despite that reverse at Bourne, Deepings themselves have had a successful season. They narrowly missed out on promotion and, with two cup semi finals yet to come, will feel they’ve performed well.
Club chairman Micky Pearce also highlighted their women’s side Deepings Devils, noting they are “training twice a week and recruiting hard for new players”.
Captain Jess Robinson will be delighted to hear from potential new recruits and can be contacted via the club’s website.
Jeremy Beswick finds the Tigers camp in a happier mood after a series of morale boosting wins
Last month Tigers press conference had been one of the most tense we’d experienced but this month’s was a far happier, more relaxed affair.
The difference was striking. Victories over Harlequins, Saracens and Worcester – and a climb to fifth in the table and to within striking distance of the play-offs – had evidently done wonders for their confidence ahead of the crunch match with Wasps.
Captain Tom Youngs was in a particularly buoyant and defiant mood.
“We let ourselves down around the Christmas period but we also know we’re a really good side,” he said. “Wasps may have beaten us the last five times we’ve played but the group is confident and everyone knows what’s expected of them.”
That analysis was shared by coach Matt O’Connor who observed: “Defensively we have to be accurate and limit the opportunities they get. Last time we gave them too much possession so we need to look after the ball better and set the tone of the game ourselves, not have it dictated to us.”
He acknowledged the improved atmosphere saying: “The positive vibe from the past few wins has given the boys a kick along”.
Having been able to maintain that momentum, their win will certainly stand
them in good stead as the season reaches its sharp end. The visit of fourth placed Newcastle at the end of April is already looking like a decider.
They’ll be helped in by the return of Ellis Genge and, shortly, Ben Youngs who O’Connor told us hopes will be ready for the Saints game later this month. Brother Tom also feels Mark Bakewell’s recent appointment as forwards coach has made a difference.
“He’s a great guy. Honest with an edge to him,” said the skipper. “He’s made us accountable for that extra one or two percent which is enough sometimes to make the difference. He gets the English game and is a good guy to have a frank conversation with.”
The Tigers wheelchair team has been crowned Division One champions for the first-time in the club’s history. Wins against Gaelic Warriors and LWRC Crusaders set them up for what proved to be the decider against West Coast Crash, in which they prevailed 47-44. They then went on to win their remaining ties to complete a clean sweep.
Captain Jamie Stead said: “We are the only team in the league history to win both Division One and Division Two so to do it within a four year period just shows how far the club as progressed.”
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BY JULIA DUNGWORTH
THE EVENTING SEASON has finally started, albeit a bit slowly.
Oasby made a valiant effort of trying to run – they put a lot of stone down in the car parks and on the course, but alas even they couldn’t cope with the final deluge of rain.
Thursday and Friday ran well and they had a good number of starters, and it was great to see Oliver Townend out running last year’s Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials winner, Ballaghmor Class.
He did a lovely steady double clear and it looks like they will definitely be one to watch for this season. Even with the cancellation Oliver still managed to have 10 other rides, and eight out of the 10 were placed!
Piggy French’s name could also be heard repeatedly over the PA system. She had eight rides and had three wins including winning one of the hotly contested open intermediate sections on Cooley Monsoon on a very good finishing score of 22.6.
Piggy also had Burghley runner-up Vanir Kamira running, and they also posted a good solid double clear. Izzy Taylor and Ibby Macpherson took the other two open intermediate sections.
Lincoln Horse Trials suffered much the same fate as Oasby; they managed one good competition day on the Friday, then were forced to abandon part-way through Saturday when the blizzards set in.
Etti Dale had a good run on her second string Samwise, for a fourth in the 100 section. Ros Canter on Grafics also posted an impressive double clear to be placed second in their first event of the season. Grafics was bred locally by Sue and Ian Story from Belmesthorpe.
Luckily the Dodson and Horell Masterclass at Arena UK wasn’t as badly affected by the weather – in fact I think they had a few more spectators than they thought they would.
What else do you do on a snow day, other than watch
the likes of Richard Davidson, Piggy French, Sophie Wells MBE, and Geoff Billington entertain you? They had nearly 400 spectators brave the cold to watch their brilliant masterclass.
The Belvoir point-to-point had also been scheduled to run the same day; they fortunately had the foresight to take note of the impending horrific weather and cancelled a few days beforehand.
The Cottesmore point-to-point was one of the lucky events this year that managed to have a break in the weather. It ran on the last Sunday of February, and they got away with just a hard ground frost on the morning. They had a very good turn out of hardy spectators with 76 runners evenly spread over the eight races.
Gerald Bailey’s team enjoyed a double victory, winning the men’s open and the nine-year olds and upwards races.
Rutland Riding Club was determined to run its dressage event, having postponed it once already, and it made a valiant effort of running on the same bitterly cold day.
Unfortunately the warm up could only be described as frozen solid, but the dressage judges were very accommodating and allowed riders to warm up on Grange Farm’s newly surfaced arena, which fortunately coped very well with the weather. There were still good entries over the six classes; Tamsyn Iveson pulled off a double – winning one of the preliminaries on Dougie on an impressive score of 74.23% and also winning the Novice 27.
The end of season’s hunting can only mean on thing: the Cottesmore Hunt Ball! Held at the Rutland Showground (also in a blizzard), it was a brilliantly organised event this year and had the added interest of Craig Revel Horwood being in attendance. Most famously known as one of the Strictly Come Dancing judges, he was also seen throwing a few shapes on the dance floor!
