Active Magazine // Stamford & Rutland // September 2018
Autumn 2018 Open Mornings
Lower School Saturday 15 September 2018 / Saturday 6 October 2018 Middle School Saturday 29 September 2018
Autumn 2018 Open Evening
Upper School Thursday 20 September 2018
With a proud heritage and progressive outlook, Oakham is a high-achieving independent school where opportunities are both inspirational and obtainable. A shared belief in making the most out of any opportunity and to be the best you can be sets us apart from other schools. With a welcoming and friendly support structure, Oakham offers an ideal environment for boys and girls aged between 10 and 18 to learn, thrive and prosper in our modern world.
EYEBROOK HOUSE, STOKE DRY
Eyebrook House is a handsome stone built residence with land in the region of 3 acres and a substantial barn that can easily be converted for equestrian usage. Set in one of the county’s most commanding positions overlooking Eyebrook Reservoir, with stunning views over the area’s undulating countryside. Currently consisting of three principal reception rooms, large breakfast kitchen, six bedrooms and five bathrooms. The property would benefit from a programme of refurbishment and potentially extension, subject to necessary consents £1,195,000
Editor’s Letter
IN THIS ISSUE WE ARE LAUNCHING OUR new Active Kids section, which has been started in reaction to a lot of discussion we’ve had with readers about children and how they approach life.
As with everything in Active, you’ll notice that it’s not just endless listings of stuff to be sold, all linked to advertising, but is a series of stories and features looking at how we can bring our kids up better – advice from experts and suggestions for ways to help them (and their parents, for that matter) through an increasingly complex world.
Lily Canter has written a fascinating piece on how we should assess risk with children when they play, and how allowing them to discover what hurts helps their development.
Unlike a few decades ago, when kids could head out on their bikes and just come home for tea, we seem surrounded by scares and danger, and this inevitably feeds into how we view what our kids do. In some cases, this concern may well be justified and worth heeding, but in others, are we keeping them too wrapped in cotton wool? And how will this affect how they perceive the world and react to it as they grow up. Is it time to put a bit of steel into the snowflake generation?
So we will be looking over the coming months at lots of issues that affect children, and how they can be healthier and happier. We’ll also come up with suggestions of how to drag them away from the screens they spend so much of their life in front of.
On another note, it’s the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials this month, which always signals the beginning of the end of summer. It’s been a staggering season, full of endless wonderful hot days and a constantly shining sun. Hopefully Burghley won’t mean a turn in the weather: I’ve got rather used to it, and a prolonged Indian summer would be no bad thing.
Enjoy the issue
Steve
Publisher Chris Meadows chris@theactivemag.com
Editor Steve Moody steve@theactivemag.com
Deputy editor Mary Bremner mary@theactivemag.com
Production editor Julian Kirk julian@theactivemag.com
Art editor Mark Sommer mark@theactivemag.com
Contributors
Martin Johnson, William Hetherington, Jeremy Beswick, Julia Dungworth
Photographers
Nico Morgan, Pip Warters
Production assistant Gary Curtis
Advertising sales Lisa Chauhan lisa@theactivemag.com Amy Roberts amy@theactivemag.com
Editorial and Advertising Assistant Kate Maxim kate@theactivemag.com
Accounts accounts@theactivemag.com
Active magazine, The Grey House, 3 Broad Street, Stamford, PE9 1PG. Tel: 01780 480789
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Disclaimer
Copyright (c) Grassroots Publishing Limited (GPL) 2018. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, or be stored in any retrieval system, of any nature, without prior permission from GPL. Any views or opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of GPL or its affiliates. Disclaimer of Liability. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the quality and accuracy of the information contained in this publication at the time of going to press, GPL and its affiliates assume no responsibility as
ACTIVE LIFE
15 WHAT’S ON
Great local events for all the family
17 HOW TO.
Cook a tasty sausage and lentil dish
19 LAST OF THE SUMMER VINES
Keep your garden looking its best
20 HEAD SOUTH
In search of late summer sun in Europe
24 EATING OUT
We sample The Old Pheasant in Glaston
28 GREAT WALKS
Essendine and Wittering
35 PET PAGE
Choose the right puppy for you
ACTIVE BODY
38 CARBS: FRIEND OR FOE?
Nutrition advice from Dawn Revens
42 TEAR IT UP
Avicenna Clinic advice on knee injuries
45 MENTAL HEALTH
De-stigmatising the illness in the office
FEATURES
46 BRILLIANT BURGHLEY
Looking ahead to the horse trials
REGULARS
73 MARTIN JOHNSON
Age is no barrier in some sports
76 CHALLENGES
Updates on our intrepid fund-raisers
81 ON YOUR BIKE!
A Stamford-based 24-mile ride
83 ROUND-UP
How clubs in the area are faring
90 KITBAG
Great sporting and leisure equipment
NEW! ACTIVE KIDS
59 SWEET DREAMS
How to get kids to sleep better
61 COOKING FOR KIDS
The art of concealing vegetables
62 RISKY BUSINESS
Why kids must be allowed to take risks 62
Active life
● Catch some late season sun ● Plan a great day out with our what’s on guide ● Sample the delights of the Old Pheasant at Glaston ● Get out into the countryside with Will’s Walks ● Enjoy the last gasps of summer in your garden
Edited by Mary Bremner
SHOP OF THE MONTH
ANNA COUTURE IS EXPANDING
Exciting news for brides to be – Anna Couture is expanding and opening a second shop, Anna Couture Brides, at 8 High Street St Martin’s in Stamford in early September.
Anna has taken on the Chanticleer label, a 30-year old English brand with stockists all over the country, so will be designing under that name as well as still having her own bespoke label. She will still have her original shop in Cheyne Lane, also in Stamford, where she will carry on doing bespoke clothing, mother of the bride dresses, prom dresses and luxury ladies wear and accessories, as well as alterations.
Anna has been building a talented new team, many of them with costume, design, film and theatre experience, as well as being talented seamstresses. She will also still be making costumes for Tolethorpe.
Under her new label, Chanticleer, Anna will be designing a new collection yearly, starting with a capsule collection of six dresses that will be available in 2019. Pop in and see her fabulous new shop and large selection of wedding dresses. www.thehouseofannacouture.co.uk
Defibrillator donated
Stamford Tennis Club is thriving, with more than 350 members, and is delighted that Fitzwilliam Hospital, part of Ramsay Health Care, has sponsored the club this year by donating a defibrillator as well as kit for the team players. The defibrillator was delivered recently and members were given a training session about how to use it. If you would like to join the tennis club, or find out more information, visit https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/StamfordTennisClub
NEW GARDEN OPENED
A labyrinth and peace garden in the newly extended churchyard of All Saints’ Church in Easton on the Hill has recently been officially opened by village stalwart Harold Gregory, and dedicated by Bishop John Flack and Rev Philip Davis. The garden is a result of four years of planning and boasts a sculpture by local artist Michael Moralee, kindly sponsored by the family of the late Sandra Watson, a much missed villager. Everyone is welcome to visit and enjoy the peace and tranquility offered by the labyrinth and peace garden. www.eastonlabyrinth.co.uk
FORGET ME NOT
Market Harborough-based marketing agency, The Ideal Marketing Company, has invested in wrought iron flowers for all of the team to support the LOROS Hospice’s Forget Me Not flower appeal. Hundreds of the wrought iron flowers were displayed in Leicester’s Jubilee Square recently. LOROS Hospice is a charity that provides free high quality care and support to more than 2,500 terminally ill patients and their families every year across Leicestershire and Rutland.
COLOUR SPLASH
Prestwold Hall in Leicestershire was home to the second annual Colour Splash, held in July. 170 runners took part, raising more than £800 for the Barrow and Wolds Church Group’s work with children and families.
Organised by the Barrow Runners Club and sponsored by chartered accountants Mark J Rees everyone had a great time in glorious weather.
We would be delighted to welcome
to an Informal Open Morning on Thursday 4th October 2018 from 9.00am - 11.00am Our Year 6 pupils will be on hand to give
the heart of your home
The kitchen has evolved in style, look and technology, but it remains the heart of the home.
Like all our services, a Classic Kitchen will be supplied and installed with a level of care and expertise that matches your expectations.
Providers of professional live-in care for those who wish to stay in their own homes and need assistance due to the limitations of age or illness.
We offer professional and caring help with long term continuing care, companionship, dementia care, palliative care, respite care and ‘end of life’ care.
Pet Blood Bank, a charity which provides a canine blood bank service, is looking for dogs to donate blood. So if your pooch weighs more than 25kg and is aged between one and eight years old, register them to become a donor. One 450ml donation of blood could save up to four dogs’ lives. Donor sessions are held at Stamford Veterinary Centre. To find out more about donor sessions, donor criteria and to register your dog, go to www.petbloodbankuk.org.
Sophie Allport and the National Trust
Homeware and lifestyle brand Sophie Allport has joined forces with the National Trust to produce the Woodland Collection, featuring oak trees, acorns and woodland creatures. Featuring 26 different products, at least £10,000 will be donated to the trust from sales of the collection. www.sophieallport.com
There’s lots going on in your area this month, why not try some of these?
Village Hall on September 22. Tickets are on sale now costing £10, (£5 for under 16s). To buy a ticket call 01476 550909. www.remiharris.com
Comedian Rhod Gilbert is touring again after a six-year break from stand-up. He will be appearing at De Montfort Hall on March 29. www.demontforthall.co.uk
Easton Walled Gardens is holding a range of autumn workshops during September and October, including willow weaving courses on September 12 and 13. Workshops range from smartphone photography to botanical art. If you book two or more full-day workshops at the same time you will receive a free lunch with your second workshop. www.visiteaston.co.uk
inspired...
caring for your home
Conservatory too hot in the summer and too cold in winter?
Classic have the answer to this problem and you do not even have to change the existing windows/doors, although you can. Structurally very strong which means your new sun room meets full Building Regulation Approval.
There’s lots going on in your area this month, why not try some of these?
● Equilibrium in Stamford is moving to new premises this month at 21 St Mary’s Street, (what used to be The Little Surgery) and to help celebrate it is holding a Fertili-Tea to raise money for the charity Fertility Network UK. Local fertility nurse consultant and coach Kate Davies will be there to offer advice. There will be fertility tea, coffee and delicious cakes made by Caroline from The Kitsch Hen as well as mini beauty treatments, all for a donation, to help raise awareness and money to support couples struggling with infertility. www.equilibriumstamford.co.uk www.the-kitsch-hen.co.uk
● Dove Cottage Day Hospice in Rutland is holding a lantern walk on Saturday, October 13, starting at 6pm at Oakham Castle. All participants receive a free lantern to carry with them during this three-mile sponsored walk. Fun for all the family, and raising money for a good cause. www.dovecottage.org/lantern-walk
● A three-day flower festival is being held by Stamford Flower Club at St John’s Church between September 14-16. Entry is £3 and
funds are being raised for the Evergreen Care Trust and Churches Conservation Trust.
● A new production of Calendar Girls The Musical, written by Gary Barlow and Tim Firth, will be at De Montfort Hall in Leicester on October 16-20. Tickets are now on sale. www.demontforthall.co.uk
● Deborah King has a new yoga course beginning on October 13 at Ryhall Village Hall. Focusing on back health, and unique to the area, there will be six half-day sessions, held monthly to manage back ache and strengthen your body.
www.do-yoga.co.uk
● Cancer Research UK is asking keen cyclists to cycle 300 miles this month to help raise funds for research. How many miles you cover each ride is up to you, just complete 300 in the month. To sign up for the challenge, for more information and useful tips go to www. cruk.org/cycle300. Or if you prefer walking to cycling, Shine Leicester held on October 20 is Cancer Research UK’s first 10k night walk, around the city of Leicester. https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/supportus/find-an-event/charity-walks/shine-nightwalk/leicester
● The South Lincolnshire Walking Festival takes place between Saturday, September 29, and Sunday, October 28. The festival offers 61 walks throughout the south of Lincolnshire’s countryside through The Fens, marshes, woodland, parks, towns and hills. Walks vary from a mile to 26. Harlaxton Manor holds the grand opening on September 29 so pop along to enjoy the house and grounds, and a few walks. To find out more, pick up a copy of the festival brochure from local libraries and tourist information centres or email slwf@heritagelincolnshire.org
Moving stationery
Fine quality personalised notebooks, journals, and leather accessories, handmade in Stamford.
Clear Ridge Veterinary practice aims to help your new puppy settle in as quickly as possible and to help with this very important time in their lives.
Take a look at the details of our ‘Clear Start Puppy Pack’. This starter pack caters for all of your puppies needs and includes vaccinations, health assessment, flea treatment, worming treatment, microchip, nurse appointments, information folder and free insurance*.
The Clear Start Package covers all of your young puppy’s essentials for three months:
• First full course of standard primary vaccinations - We offer Lepto 2 vaccinations. We recommend puppies are vaccinated from 8 weeks of age. The course consists of 2 vaccinations given either 2-4 weeks apart. Your puppy will then be vaccinated against Canine Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvo virus and Para-influenza virus and Leptospirosis. Yearly booster vaccinations will then be recommended to maintain immunity.
• A general health check - You will have a 20 minute consultation with one of our vets which will enable you to discuss any questions or problems you may be experiencing.
• Nurse consultations - As your puppy grows and develops into a young dog, you are sure to have questions. Our nurses will be there to help and advise you along the way. They can discuss: Diet, weight, suitable play/ toys, behaviour & training tips, exercise requirements, preventative dental care and neutering.
• One worming treatment
• One flea treatment
• Microchip
• 10% off subsequent flea & worming treatment for 1yr
• 10% off 1st annual booster vaccination (at 12 months)
• 10% off your next consultation
• 4 weeks free insurance*
All for just £50.00. For more information or to discuss any part in more detail, please call and speak to any of the Clear Ridge Team at our Stamford practice: Tel 01780 764333 or Orton Wistow Tel: 01733 230000 www.clearridgevets.co.uk
HOW TO MAKE…
This one-pot meal is delicious, easy to make and is the ultimate comfort food
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
8 good quality Lincolnshire sausages
1 finely chopped onion
2 diced celery stalks
2 diced carrots
275g puy lentils
3 finely chopped garlic cloves
100ml dry white wine
500ml chicken stock
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper
Method
Heat the oil in a heavy bottomed pan and brown the sausages all over. Lift out and set aside.
Add the onions, celery, carrot and garlic and cook gently until soft.
Add the lentils, wine and chicken stock along with the bay leaf. Bring to the boil and season.
Now add the sausages and simmer for about 25 minutes, uncovered, until the stock and wine is absorbed. Serve with crusty bread and a green salad.
GARDEN
ENJOY THE LAST GASPS OF SUMMER
Garden designer Teresa Kennedy encourages us to carry on enjoying our gardens even as the nights start to draw in
The unfortunate thing about late summer is that everything we were excited about in the early part of the season has gone, and the garden is now looking tired and a bit messy.
The fresh new look is over and anticipation for the forthcoming long, relaxing days spent outside has passed. It is late summer now and a container filled with bright annuals is not going to cut it! But late season summers can bring some of our best weather and we should cherish these last weeks of outdoor living as we know the weather will turn soon.
It’s easy to feel that now summer is almost over the outdoors will be shortly closed up for
NATURE
the year, but it’s not. My outdoor space works for me right up until late autumn and even into December. I still light the outdoor fire, snuggle under a blanket, watch the stars and eat chocolates.
Below are a few things to think about to help enjoy the last gasp of the season...
Scent – this is still a particularly important part of your outdoor experience late in the year. Oriental lillies give out a powerful scent in late summer; yes they’re big and blousy, but soften them with some neat green, such as a hebe, if you want the scent rather than the display. One of my favourite roses (rosa buff beauty) is my
One of our smallest birds, the wren is equally at home in a suburban garden, woodland or exposed heather moorland. Its presence is often announced by its warbling song, which is loud for such a tiny bird. Flight between patches of cover is direct and rapid, giving little chance of seeing the bird clearly – dark brown above and paler below, with a short tail and a whitish stripe over the eye.
top choice for this time of year. It has a soft, honeyed colour with a slightly rich red tint to the leaves, as well as a soft perfume. Colour – concentrate on rich, warm reds and browns, with a splash of tall white or tall yellow. You’re going to be seeing earlier sunsets so using these colours connects your space seamlessly with nature. Sedum purple emperor is one of my favourites and it’s sturdy. Dahlias are at their best now – look at dahlia happy single first love for a dark foliage and rich apricot/brown tones.
Structure – solid rich greens are the perfect backdrop for colour. The obvious choice, which is readily available, is buxus. The smooth lines help bring order to the garden as it goes into its messy time of year. Pittosporum tom thumb with its purple leaves will tie all your colours together.
Seating – one of the first things I talked about in this column was finding a seat and building your garden from that point. If your seat doesn’t work for you, then I can guarantee you will find one at a bargain price as the season draws to a close.
www.viridisdesign.co.uk, 07726 334501
The wren’s fine bill is perfect for collecting the insects and spiders which it feeds on. The male builds several domed ‘cock’s nests’ of moss and grass, well hidden in shrubs or vegetation covered banks. The female chooses one where she lays a clutch of around six eggs, lining it with feathers. Incubation lasts for 14 days with the young generally fledging 17 days later.
As an insect feeder, wrens are very vulnerable during cold winters when they struggle to find enough food during the short daylight hours, so the population can fluctuate greatly. On a farmland survey plot near Uppingham, the number of territories over 25 years has varied between six and 32. Numbers soon recover following a successful breeding season. Terry Mitcham
TRAVEL
EXTEND THE SUMMER SUNSHINE
Grab your passport and head to southern Europe for some late season warmth
This summer perhaps some of you have had enough of the sun and heat with our exceptional weather, but there’s nothing better than a late top up to see you through the winter.
A last gasp of autumn sun can top up the vitamin D levels, give a sun-kissed look and keep the feelgood factor going for a few months longer before the drab British winter kicks in and takes its toll.
But you’re very unlikely to get really warm weather in late September in the UK. Luckily most of southern Europe, a short flight away, will still be basking in sunny, warm (even hot) weather throughout most of the autumn, even early winter, so grab your passport and head south. The advantage of holidaying in September or October is that prices are cheaper, resorts and beaches are less crowded, hotels have more availability and, if you like child-free holidays, the children are back at school.
But where to go? There is a huge choice varying from beaches to beautiful cities and superb countryside and mountains for walking. A dead cert for good weather is most of Spain, particularly the southern part. The average temperature in Marbella in September is 26
degrees. Head inland to places such as Granada and it’s 27, dropping to 26 in October, and in Seville it’s still a hot 33 degrees in September.
The Greek islands are still warm with average temperatures of about 24 degrees and the sea temperature is at its warmest in September and early October. The summer season draws to a close on the Greek islands in mid-October with most bars and restaurants closing at the end of the month and some flights from the UK stopping.
The weather can become unpredictable towards the end of October with night time temperatures dropping and winds getting stronger, so don’t leave it too late.
And do have a look at Croatia, Malta and Portugal which are all still holding their own in September.
The South of France might cool down slightly more quickly but average temperatures are still a respectable 25 degrees in September. You could always head to France to help with the grape harvest, or at least to observe it, if picking grapes sounds a bit strenuous.
The slightly cooler temperatures mean it’s a better time to go for a walking holiday, or to
concentrate on the sights as climbing over ancient ruins in the mid-August heat can be taxing. And what’s more, a late season holiday, particularly this year, can be a bonus. You’ve been able to enjoy an unbelievable summer at home; you’ve got something to look forward to as the nights start to draw in, and all your friends will be very envious of your late season tan. Perfect.
THE FINISHING TOUCHES
Edited by Mary Bremner
CLEAN BEAUTY MAMA MASSAGE
Lucy Meadows enjoys a pregnancy massage
Absolute bliss! A chance to relax and have a massage in your own home; what more can you ask for after a long day at work in the heat, especially when pregnant?
Clean Beauty Mamas founder and owner Laura travels to your house and offers a range of personalised treatments to help relieve pregnancy symptoms (and stress) for mums-to-be, and also to help relax tired mums. The aromatherapy-based treatments not only leave you feeling blissfully relaxed from head to toe, inside and out, but the house was also left smelling of the gorgeous essential oils, allowing the soothing calm atmosphere to continue long after the treatment had finished.
As well as the massage and aroma of essential oils, the soothing music relaxes your mind, body and soul while deep breathing techniques, recommended by Laura, help focus your attention on yourself, helping you to drift away from the stresses of everyday life and symptoms of pregnancy. The full body massage released stress and left me feeling relaxed and at peace.
I had my massage in the evening, and being in the comfort of my own home meant I was able to remain in my tranquil state until bedtime; and I then had the best night’s sleep I’ve had for a while.
I would strongly recommend anyone who is pregnant to have a massage with Laura so you too can experience this level of relaxation in your own home, even if you are having a fairly easy pregnancy.
You do not have to be suffering from pregnancy related symptoms to benefit from Clean Beauty Mama’s expertise. I could feel my baby’s movements during the massage; clearly showing that my relaxed state was calming and positive for the baby, benefitting the baby, as well as myself.
Clean Beauty Mamas not only offers treatments for pregnant mums to be, but also offers a range of stress reduction massages to relieve various postpartum concerns and to help regain strength.
Prices start at £30 for 30 minutes, £50 for 60 and £70 for 90 minutes. www.cleanbeautymamas.com
The Old PheasanT, GlasTOn
steve and hannah visit a newly reopened village pub, which is looking to the future
The Old Pheasant at Glaston, sitting on the road to Leicester near Uppingham, looked to be going the same way as many other village pubs.
Boarded up and the business closed, there was a good chance this pretty stone building would end up as an interesting character house or a set of flats.
However at the start of the summer, unlike so many of its type, it got a second chance. Steven Sands has taken over the business and is setting about transforming it into the pub it always should have been.
That means, he says, turning it into a place that’s welcoming for the local villagers, and a popular stop on a busy road. It’s got rooms too, so ideal for visitors looking to stay near to Rutland Water.
Steven, who has worked in the hotel trade for years in London at some very prestigious venues, and now runs another pub and hotel has had his work cut out, not least in turning round the reputation of a place that has taken a bit of battering. And it’s not just locally you have to do that these days too, it’s on site like TripAdvisor where you are shouldered with a legacy that is nothing to do with you. So will he get there? We went to find out.
The Old Pheasant is a big building with plenty of potential, and there’s a separate bar and eating area. We found a table near a window and settled in to look at the menu. It has two sides to it: one is traditional pub food, sandwiches and very good value kids food, the other
something a little more fancy.
Being fancy myself, obviously I went for that side, and to my surprise so did Hannah, opting for pan fried chorizo, stuffed baby red peppers and rocket salad (£6.50) while I chose crayfish tails, mango salsa and lime mayonnaise (£6.00).
It should be noted at this point that we were waited on by extremely friendly and helpful staff: just the sort of thing you should get in a village pub. Although it’s surprising how often you don’t. I spoke to Steven about it afterwards and he said that having such a good and efficient team has been one of the biggest plusses of restarting the pub.
Hannah’s starter arrived and looked especially vibrant with the red peppers popping off the plate. It tasted like it looked, with smoky chorizo, peppery rocket and peppers with a kick to them.
Mine was especially summery, and the succulent crayfish went well with the mango, although the mayonnaise could have done with a hint more lime than what was on display.
For mains, there was a choice of duck breast, cod loin and steak, but I chose the whole poussin, with spring onion mash, baby carrots, tenderstem broccoli and red wine jus (£15) and Hannah plumped for an early taste of autumn with a wild mushroom ravioli in a white wine cream with croutons and parmesan (£13).
I think it’s fair to say that both of us were not going to
Above
A selection of real ales are always on tap from local brewery, The Grainstore.
PRIORS HALL GOLF COURSE
Northamptonshire’s Hidden Gem
18 Hole Course in scenic rural countryside
Bar & Restaurant
Competitive Green Fees
Annual & Direct debit season tickets available
Society days available
Golf Shop
Open 7 days per week
Trolley & buggy hire available
Home of ‘Priors Hall Golf Club’
The Old Pheasant Hotel in Glaston is situated in the picturesque heart of Rutland, providing the perfect escape for some relaxation.
15 MAIN RD, GLASTON, RUTLAND, LE15 9BP 01572 822326
RESTAURANT TIMES:
MON - FRIDAY: LUNCH: 12 - 2PM DINNER: 6 - 9PM
SATURDAY: LUNCH: 12 - 3PM DINNER: 6 - 9PM
SUNDAY: ALL DAY DINING FROM 12 - 7PM SUNDAY ROAST FROM 12 - 4PM
Off the A47, this traditional grade 2 listed stonebuilt country pub with rooms attached is close to the market town of Oakham, Uppingham and Stamford. It is located just a stones throw away from Rutland Water Nature Reserve.
The well set out rooms have contemporary furnishings and decor, and come with free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, and tea and coffee making facilities. The hotel serves breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week. Breakfast is open to the public and
our lunch and dinner menu has some great pub classics along with some tantalising dishes sourced locally. The menu has been designed by our chefs. They have designed the menu to suit a variety of different tastes.
Whether your stay is for business or simply to relax and enjoy the beautiful surrounding countryside, our dedicated staff will take care to ensure your every need is catered for, leaving you to simply enjoy yourself and unwind.
go home hungry. For the price, there was an impressive amount of food. My poussin was certainly on its way to be a grown up chicken and Hannah’s ravioli was very generous too. Tasty and plentiful, it was just the sort of food a village pub should offer its patrons.
Somehow, we had to find space for pudding, this being a review after all, and the sight of cheesecake with Maltesers on the menu was too much for me to resist and Hannah succumbed to panna cotta with poached strawberries.
In keeping with the general theme, my cheesecake was a towering thing, surrounding by fruit and with a nice crumbly base and topped with Maltesers I managed to bring it down to size in no time, while Hannah’s panna cotta was light and airy, with a lovely sweet strawberry coulis to complement it.
For a pub looking to make it way back, it was all very impressive – it could not be faulted for value and service – and it sits in that middle tier where you get exactly what you expect. There’s no pretentiousness and you will come away feeling like you’ve had an honest, well-cooked meal. It’s what local pubs should aspire to, and we should support businesses like The Old Pheasant, because they are doing a sterling job. Hopefully this is the beginning of successful future for Steven and his team.
15 Main Rd, Glaston, Oakham LE15 9BP
Phone: 01572 822326
Below
Well located, not far from Rutland Water and Uppingham, The Old Pheasant offers honest and well-cooked food.
ESSENDINE AND THE WEST GLEN RIVER
ACTIVE INFO
Essendine railway station opened in 1852 and closed in 1966. On July 3, 1938, north of Essendine at Milepost 90¼, the
This short, easy walk takes in water, the railway and open countryside offering stunning views of two local villages. By Will Hetherington
Photography: Will Hetherington
Difficulty rating (out of five)
THE ROUTE
I parked on the main road in the middle of Essendine where the northbound A6121 turns sharp right after crossing the east coast mainline. There are a few parking spaces here in front of the post box and it’s as convenient a place as any. To do the clockwise route, head out on to the playing field on the left and you will see the footpath cutting diagonally across it. Take this path across the field and through a small housing estate and you will soon find yourself on a narrow fenced in footpath passing a farm on your right. Keep going across the private road
and the next field and then when you come to the woods turn left.
Follow the winding track down to the railway line and then turn right. This is not marked on the OS map as a public footpath but there is a permissive right of way. You will very shortly come to the West Glen river where you turn right again and follow the river for nearly a kilometre until you reach the bridge over the river.
If you want you can head up to Carlby for a wander around, but otherwise turn right and head gradually back up the shallow incline towards Essendine. This route will take you through Broadholme Farm and on to Manor Farm Road.
Mallard set the land speed record for a steam locomotive, reaching 126mph.
Clockwise, from above Stunning views of Carlby church; the dogs will enjoy the water and open countryside; the view back to Essendine
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
Where to park
On the main road in front of the post box next to the junction with Manor Farm Lane.
Distance and time
Two miles/40 minutes
Highlights
The path by the West Glen River. The surprising tranquility of the countryside. Pretty little St. Mark’s church and the views across to Carlby.
Lowlights
This is not a long walk but you can extend it a bit by going for a look around Carlby if you wish.
Refreshments
There is no pub in Essendine but if you want good food you can head to the Six Bells in Witham or the Wicked Witch in Ryhall for a serious lunch.
Difficulty rating
One paw. This is a very gentle walk with no stiles and, apart from a bit of mud in wetter weather, I can’t see it presenting many challenges.
The pooch perspective
The dogs should love this one with plenty of open countryside and the West Glen River to cool off in. Also I didn’t see any livestock when I did this walk.
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.
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ACTIVE INFO
From 1968 until 2010, RAF Wittering was known as the home of the
the
and landing plane was
WITTERING AND THORNHAUGH
This surprisingly peaceful walk is tucked away behind RAF Wittering airfield and to the west of the A1. By
Photography: Will Hetherington
THE ROUTE
Park on Boxer Road on the very south-west fringe of Wittering village and take the footpath which leads south west diagonally away from the road. You will immediately come into a suprisingly steep-sided little valley with a gentle stream running through the bottom.
Even in the height of the summer heatwave there was water running here, so I assume it runs all year around. After about half a kilometre you will come to the bridleway which runs to Bonemills Farm on the Old Oundle Road to the west. If you want a longer walk then I suggest you turn west here and enjoy the bridleway and
Will Hetherington
the views, but when you get to the road you will have to turn around and retrace your steps.
When you get back to the original junction where you turned west keep going and then turn right shortly afterwards just as you reach the southern edge of Wittering village. Head south for a while but branch off to the left at the first opportunity and you will soon find yourself entering Lound and Abbot’s Wood.
There are a number of paths around these woods and you can walk to Thornhaugh if you wish. Or if you head the other way you will pass Wittering Grange as you head south towards the A47. Either way I would recommend you have an OS map with you, because it’s easy to lose your bearings and you do not want to end up walking along the narrow and busy A47.
It’s surprisingly peaceful in the woods. Once you have finished exploring it’s a simple matter of heading back north to Wittering.
Harrier but
iconic vertical take-off
retired in 2010.
Above
Bridleway runs west to east from Bonemills Farm all the way across to Hall Lane at Wittering villlage
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On Boxer Road on the very south-west fringe of Wittering village.
Distance and time
It really depends how much exploring you do but you can extend this to six miles and two hours if you want.
Highlights
The steep little valley at the start. The tranquility of the woodlands (provided there is a westerly wind carrying the A1 noise the other way). The bridleway.
Lowlights
This is not a circular walk but it’s a quiet and lovely stroll for you and the dogs.
Refreshments
The Paper Mills in Wansford.
Difficulty rating
Two paws. Even if you extend it there is nothing challenging here.
The pooch perspective
There are a couple of welcome waterways and almost no livestock.
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.
PUPPY POWER
Everything you need to know about choosing a puppy, by
Stamford senior veterinary nurse Jessica Fawcett
Introducing a puppy into your family is a very exciting time but there are many things to consider before entering into this long-term commitment.
You also need to consider which breed of dog would best suit your lifestyle. For example, working breeds such as labradors and spaniels will need plenty of exercise and long haired breeds will need daily grooming.
Have you considered a rescue dog/puppy? There are many wonderful dogs in our local rescue centres looking for a second chance and a loving home (see panel, right). We are very fortunate in this area to have three well established rescue centres and I have always known them to be very helpful when it comes to finding you the right four-legged friend.
There is also the financial impact.
Unfortunately we don’t have an NHS for our four-legged friends so we would advise taking out insurance cover. Policies tend to range from £20-£40 per month depending on the policy.
Once you have taken all of the above into account and are happy with the responsibility it involves and have researched your chosen breed, you are now ready to find your puppy.
When visiting a breeder I would always advise you to make sure you see mum and her pups together and ensure the environment in which they are kept is clean and warm (never buy a puppy if you have any doubts about the breeder or situation). A good breeder should want to know as much about you as you about them. Check both parents do not suffer from any health problems and ask if they have been screened for any diseases (tests such as BVA hip/ elbow scoring for dysplasia or DNA testing).
When it comes to choosing your puppy, try and look for a happy, interactive one. Spend plenty of time with the litter and don’t feel rushed. Look out for signs of medical problems such as a dull, scurfy coat, runny eyes or nose, weakness (difficulty standing) or any coughing or sneezing.
Check the puppy’s age; ideally puppies should be eight weeks old or more when they leave their mother. New laws state that all puppies should be microchipped by the time they are eight weeks old and that the details registered to the microchip are up to date and correct. Your breeder should advise you on how to update these details.
If any vaccinations have been given, they should be recorded in a vaccination certificate and signed by a vet. The breeder will let you know if your puppy needs any further vaccines and when they will be due.
Ask if the litter has been treated for worms and other parasites, such as fleas. Find out what product was used and when it was given as your vets will need this information.
Stamford Veterinary Centre’s team of vets, nurses and receptionists is committed to ensuring your puppy has the best start in life and can guide you through the first few important months of their life, as well as being on hand to answer any questions you may have. It has a qualified dog trainer at the practice and runs monthly Puppy Parties to ensure your puppy is able to socialise in a controlled environment.
More details can be found at www.stamfordvets.co.uk or by calling 01780 763180.
To the rescue
Taking on a rescue dog is a wonderful thing to do, but there are things you need to know first, says Wendy Kruger
Dogs find themselves in rescue centres for many reasons; often it is due to a change in the previous owners’ circumstances. Many rescue dogs were much loved and wanted by their owners, but fundamentally, at the time the owner relinquished the dog, they were unable to meet its needs.
Dogs need appropriate exercise, mental stimulation, social company, things to chew, and a safe place for rest and relaxation.
When their basic needs are adequately met, dogs are happier and are less likely to have behavioural issues.
Each dog’s needs are different. Age and breed have the biggest influence; however, personality and previous experience also affects their needs. It is really important to take time to consider what the individual dog’s needs are and whether your lifestyle is conducive to meeting those needs.
The secret to having a great relationship with your dog is finding one that enjoys some of the same activities that you like.
For example, if you like jogging then a dog with stamina that will enjoy running with you would be ideal. If you enjoy short walks and relaxing on the sofa, then a greyhound or one of the companion breeds could be the perfect match. There are many things to consider – the time you have available and your daily routine is the best place to start.
In rescue, there are dogs of all ages. An adult dog can be a joyful addition to any family, and often so much easier to live with than a youngster. Someone will have done the hard part and you can enjoy the more settled phase of his or her life. You will still need to continue with training because like us, dogs continue learning throughout their lives. It is never too late to learn a new trick or skill.
If you re-home from a rescue centre you should be able to visit the dog, spend some time with it and not feel under pressure to adopt.
The rescue centre should give you information about its personality and, where possible, information from its last owner, its medical records and what its needs are. All good re-homing centres give post homing support and advice.
Compiled by dog behavioural and training specialist Wendy Kruger on behalf of Wood Green, The Animals Charity. To find out more about rehoming a rescue dog, visit www.woodgreen.org.uk.
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ACTIVE BODY
Therapy for riders (and horses), treating knee injuries, addressing mental health in the workplace, and carbs – friend or foe?
Edited by Steve Moody
CHINESE TAKE AWAY
Acupuncturist Duncan Ford explains all about this ancient, well-proven remedy to relieve aches and pain
Acupuncture forms a part of traditional Chinese medicine where the basis of diagnosis and treatment is that the mind and body should be in perfect balance. This ancient system of healing has developed over 2,500 years, originating in China and other far Eastern cultures.
It is a gentle and effective treatment that focuses on helping the whole person, aiming to improve their entire health and wellbeing. Today it is widely used and accepted all over the world and 25% of the world’s population have acupuncture on a regular basis.
One of the most popular myths surrounding acupuncture is the size of the needles used in treatment. In fact, research shows that 21% of the British public think an
acupuncturist’s needle is as large as that used in an injection.
The reality is acupuncture needles are actually the same width as a human hair. Most people might feel a slight tingling sensation when the needles are used, but this certainly does not feel like the pain associated with an injection.
Acupuncture is also considered suitable for people of all ages including babies, children and the elderly. It can be very effective and is often integrated with conventional medicine. The treatment is widely considered to be beneficial for a range of symptoms resulting from illness, from clearly defined complaints or to improve general feelings of well-being and help with relaxation.
Duncan Ford is offering Active readers 30% discount on all consultations booked during September and October. Just quote ‘Active’ when making the booking.
If you are having acupuncture, make sure the practitioner is a full member of the British Acupuncture Council.
BAcC acupuncturists have degree level qualifications and must adhere to strict codes of safe practice and professional conduct in order to be registered and insured by the British Acupuncture Council. The council guarantees excellence in training, safe practice and professional conduct.
Duncan Ford is a full member of the British Acupuncture Council. To talk to Duncan about acupuncture and what it can do for you, call 07714 575720. To book an appointment call 01780 480889 or drop into The Broad Street Practice in Stamford.
PUT YOUR CARBS IN GEAR
Nutritionist Dawn Revens asks if carbohydrate is friend or foe to the endurance athlete, and how you body uses it in different ‘gears’
As an endurance athlete, do you need carbohydrate for training and racing? The answer is: it depends.
You may have heard of the low-carb, high-fat (LCHF) endurance athlete. These athletes eat less than 50g of carbohydrate a day and a high percentage of fat. The theory is that by doing this, your body will use fat instead of carbohydrate as its primary energy source. This is beneficial for long distances as we can only hold around
a day’s supply of energy as glycogen in our muscles yet even at a low body fat percentage we hold enough energy for at least a month. My personal view is that it’s not quite as straight-forward, so let’s look at how our body is designed to work.
There are three different pathways that the body can make the energy we need to train and race as endurance athletes: The creatine phosphate system. This is like
‘first gear’ used for high intensity, short duration exercises, for example a 100m sprint. This is an anaerobic (without oxygen) energy pathway and it doesn’t use carbohydrate or fat stores.
The lactate system. This is like ‘second gear’. It can supply energy for higher intensity exercise for approximately 60-180 seconds. This is also an anaerobic pathway and your body uses carbohydrate in the form of glucose to fuel this. The by-product is lactic acid which causes the burning sensations in your muscles.
The Aerobic (oxygen) system. This energy system produces energy from the complete breakdown of carbohydrate and fat in the presence of oxygen. It’s like ‘third and fourth gear’. This system is dominant during low to moderate intensity activities.
In a healthy, metabolically flexible body, there is considerable overlap between these three energy systems and all three of them can provide the body with the energy it needs simultaneously. The amount of energy a system contributes, will depend on the intensity of the training and racing. Unfortunately, due to poor eating habits and the high percentage of refined carbohydrates which are now eaten by most people, these three systems are not able to operate effectively and efficiently. Instead of using fat at low intensity, the body will be reliant on carbohydrate. Consequently, during endurance events, instead of using fat for fuel, their body uses carbohydrate and depletes glucose (glycogen) stores more quickly increasing the risk of bonking.
If you want to re-set your metabolism and get it back to using the three energy systems efficiently and effectively it’s best done outside of race season as it will enable your body to adjust and for you to find your carbohydrate ‘sweet spot’ for higher intensity training. By using carbohydrate at higher intensities rather than all the time you will need less food and more energy to finish your races.
In summary carbohydrate can be both friend and foe. To use it as a friend, you want to ensure your body is metabolically flexible burning mainly fat at low intensity and taking full advantage of carbohydrate as ‘rocket fuel’ at higher intensities. By getting your body to operate in this way you will be able to shift that stubborn body fat and decrease your risk of heart disease and diabetes. Being leaner and lighter with full energy stores will mean you will race faster too.
Dawn Revens is The Compeater, and works with endurance athletes to optimise their nutrition so they can get amazing training in racing results.
THERAPY – FOR HORSE AND RIDER!
Award-winning therapist Helen Mary Perkins highlights the benefits of the Bowen Technique to help maximise health and fitness… for animals as well as their owners
With the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials around the corner, it seems an ideal opportunity to highlight the benefits of Bowen therapy, equally effective both for horse and rider.
While Bowen is now one of the more recognised forms of complementary therapy, especially helpful in relieving back, neck and shoulder problems, far fewer people realise there is a similar therapy for horses; even dogs and cats have been shown to respond to this gentle noninvasive treatment.
Known as Equine Muscle Release Therapy (EMRT), this specialism evolved around 20 years ago from the original Bowen Technique, which also began in Australia. I saw the benefits first-hand when called to treat riders who had fallen from their horse while herding animals on cattle stations, during a period when I worked with the Royal Flying Doctor Service in the outback. Often the horse needed treatment as well as the buckaroo!
EMRT works in a similar way to Bowen to rebalance the body after injury or trauma, or simply to maintain good health and fitness. The therapist uses a series of specific, gentle moves to realign muscles
and connective tissue (fascia) to relax the body and ease pain. An unexplained deterioration in the horse’s performance, uneven shoe wear or a stiffness in one leg could well improve after EMRT which is used by growing numbers of equestrians.
EMRT is accredited both by the Bowen Therapy Academy of Australia and Bowen Association UK, in the same way as Bowen Technique is approved by these professional organisations which oversee training to maintain practitioner standards.
Spectators walking the cross-country course at Burghley can find themselves exhausted at the end of the day, hopefully not with a twisted ankle, but may have throbbing, swollen feet and aching shoulders from carrying a heavy bag with the day’s essentials.
All these conditions can benefit from a session or two of Bowen therapy, perhaps with a soak in Bexter’s Bath Crystals to ease away any aches and pains after a tiring day outdoors. Using Bexters crystals in a purpose-designed applicator wrap can also reduce swelling (for horses too!).
Autumn also sees the start of a new season of sports such as rugby, football and hockey, where injuries can occur after an
extended period of ‘rest’ or minimal training, especially for amateur athletes who run for fun or exercise sporadically.
Among my clients are rugby players, marathon runners, cyclists and triathletes who testify to the benefits of regular Bowen therapy to maintain peak performance levels. In addition to treating specific problems, they tell me it helps them in mind and spirit as well as relieving physical issues.
A Rutland-based triathlete, recovering from a knee operation, experienced prolonged swelling. After using Bexter’s Soda Crystals at home the knee was less painful, enabling him to start a course of Bowen therapy to get him back into training. In the Bowen session, we helped support the muscles around the knee by improving the tone of the quadriceps muscles and helping align the muscles of the ankle and foot. In no time at all he said the knee was feeling more secure.
Adventurer Bear Grylls is on record as crediting Bowen with helping him recover from serious back problems after a climbing accident several years ago. You might like to follow his example and book a treatment to experience the effects for yourself! www.helenperkins.com
Active body
TEAR IT DOWN
Dr Hany Elmadbouh, lead consultant at Avicenna Clinic, explains how a torn knee cartilage is diagnosed and treated
The knee is the largest joint in the body and there are a variety of structures that surround it and allow it to bend and protect the knee joint from injury.
The quadriceps and hamstring muscles are responsible for moving the knee joint. These muscles are also important in protecting the knee from being injured by acting to stabilise it and preventing it from being pushed in directions that it isn’t meant to go.
In addition, there are four internal ligaments that stabilise the knee joint: the medial and lateral collateral ligaments (MCL, LCL) and the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments (ACL, PCL). The articular cartilage lines the surfaces of the bones within the knee joint. There are also the medial and lateral menisci which are two thicker wedge C-shaped pads of cartilage
between the femur and tibia surfaces. Cartilage within the joint provides the cushioning to protect the bones from the routine stresses of activities.
A torn knee cartilage often refers to damage to one of the knee menisci. The meniscus can be damaged because of a single injury event often occurring during athletic activities, especially in contact sports such as football and hockey. A forceful twist can cause the end of the femur to grind into the top of the tibia, pinching and potentially tearing the cartilage of the meniscus.
Motions that require pivoting and sudden stops, in sports such as tennis, basketball and golf, can also cause meniscus damage. The meniscus may be torn because of gradual wear as we grow older, and because of over-use, causing degenerative
tears. It is estimated that six out of 10 patients aged 65 years and above have a degenerative meniscus tear.
Meniscus tears may be associated with other knee injuries such as tears of the collateral and cruciate ligaments, damage to the articular cartilage, bone bruise or bone fractures.
Sometimes meniscal tears do not cause symptoms. At the time of injury, the patient may actually hear or feel a pop in their knee followed by acute pain. Swelling of the knee due to fluid collection (effusion) may occur but this may take a few hours to develop.
There may be sudden restriction of knee movement as the torn meniscus blocks its full extension. This occurs when a piece of torn meniscus folds on itself and blocks full range of motion of the knee joint. This is referred to as locked knee.
After the injury, the knee joint irritation may gradually settle down and feel relatively normal as the initial inflammatory response resolves.
However, other symptoms may develop over time and may include any or all of the following:
• Pain with running or walking longer distances
• Intermittent swelling with tight sensation in the knee.
• Popping, especially when climbing up or down stairs
• Giving way, that is the sensation that the knee is unstable
• Intermittent knee locking.
While physical examination may suspect that the meniscus is torn, further investigation by Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is needed to confirm the diagnosis. It is a non-invasive test that can visualise the inner structures of the knee, including the cartilage and ligaments, the surface of the bones and the muscles and tendons that surround the knee joint.
The treatment of a meniscus tear depends on its severity, location and underlying disease within the knee joint.
Patient circumstances also may affect the treatment options.
It is possible to treat meniscus tears conservatively without an operation using anti-inflammatory medications, injection therapy and physiotherapy to strengthen muscles around the knee to prevent joint instability.
Patients involved in sport, whose work is physically demanding or when the pain is interfering with daily activities, may require surgery.
Avicenna Clinic has a range of specialist consultants, operating theatre for surgical procedures and superior in-house imaging facilities – including state-of-the-art MRI, ultrasound and X-ray scanning equipment. For more information, contact Avicenna Clinic on 0330 202 0597.
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WORKING ON MENTAL HEALTH
Cathy Lawson looks at the impact of mental health in the workplace, and what employees and colleagues can do to de-stigmatise and help this often widespread illness
Does your company spend enough time looking after you and your colleagues’ mental health?
It’s an issue which is a growing concern with an estimated 70 million working days lost every year because of mental ill health, and the Department of Work and Pensions also revealing that 300,000 people with a long-term mental health illness lose their jobs each year.
There is a plethora of sobering statistics, all pointing towards the urgent need for organisations to prioritise the mental health of their workforce: such issues cost Britain between £70bn and £100bn annually in lost working days, and one in three of the ‘sick notes’ handed out by GPs are for mental health issues, according to the NHS.
It is no longer just the ‘right thing to do’, it is about being a responsible employer who understands the fundamental links between well-being, employee engagement, productivity and business outcomes. That said, it is a complex challenge for management and employees with discrimination, stigma and often misunderstanding and ignorance still rife in many organisations – a survey of adults by the Mental Health Foundation showed that they wouldn’t hire someone with depression even though they were the best candidate for the job.
Many people are concerned that having a mental illness noted on their HR record will affect their performance, salary review or chances of promotion. And, who would want to have a sick note outlining depression or any other mental illness as the reason for absence when it can have ramifications on any insurance policy such as health, life, car or travel?
While the Equalities Act 2010 offers some protection against discrimination, if your illness is considered a disability – for example affecting your long-term normal day-to-day activity – you could be considered a greater insurance risk and therefore suffer an increased premium, or be refused cover altogether.
Managers, under pressure to support their teams’ mental health and well-being as well as their own, are also floundering with not knowing the right thing to say or do, fearing criticism or worse, litigation.
The culture of an organisation often perpetuates the problem, dissuading
people from being honest and open about their mental health difficulties for fear of being judged, stigmatised and discriminated against.
The fact remains that organisations can no longer ignore the direct financial consequence or the importance of taking responsibility for looking after the mental health and wellbeing of their employees.
What’s being done?
Mental Health First Aid England (MHFA England), Mind and many other charities and organisations are working to raise awareness and support companies towards creating an environment where employees feel confident in talking about their mental health, with the knowledge and confidence that they will be supported and understood.
Currently it is not a legal requirement to have a Mental Health First Aider in the workplace; however, Liberal Democrat MP Norman Lamb has worked tirelessly with Mind and MHFA England lobbying Government to achieve a parity of esteem between physical and mental health.
This has been taken up with the latest campaign ‘Where’s Your Head At?’ a
collaboration between Natasha Devon MBE, MHFA England and major national and international businesses.
MHFA England offers internationally recognised two-day training in how to become a Mental Health First Aider; a full day aimed at becoming a Mental Health Champion or a half-day session, ideal for managers, to increase their mental health awareness, all delivered by qualified and approved Instructors.
Initiatives are also available such as ‘Time To Change’, set up ten years ago by Mind and Rethink Mental Illness, to change the way society thinks and acts about mental health. Employers sign a pledge and commit to an action plan to change the way they respond to mental health in the workplace. More than 800 employers across England, in all sectors from FTSE 100 companies to Government departments have already signed the pledge.
What does a Mental Health First Aider do?
A MHFAider is trained to spot the early signs of mental ill health and potential crisis such as suicide. They are then able to apply a practical approach, very much like in physical first aid, with the confidence to intervene, signpost and guide someone towards appropriate help and support whether that be via emergency services, Employee Assistance Programmes, or other professional services.
Whilst MHFAiders have a practical role to play as the first point of contact for someone experiencing a mental health issue, they also help to raise awareness in organisations encouraging everyone to talk more openly about mental health, reducing stigma and discrimination and creating a more positive culture.
Next courses
Come and train to become a Mental Health First Aider with this internationally recognised two-day course...
September 20-21 – The Bull Hotel & Conference Centre, Westgate, Peterborough.
Fee: £295 including workbook, manual, certificate and refreshments.
(Early bird offer of £249 if booked before August 24.)
October 18-19 – Aura Business Centres, Newark.
Fee: £295 including workbook, manual, certificate and refreshments..
(Early bird offer of £249 if booked before September 21)
Cathy Lawson Approved Mental Health First Aid instructor Cathy@maestrowellbeing.com 07771 550541
BURGHLEY World class field descends on
TOP RIDERS DRAWN from ten nations including equestrian legends and talented young riders from around the globe will form the field at this year’s Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials from August 30 to September 2.
Among the 100 strong entries are no less than six previous Land Rover Burghley winners: Oliver Townend and Pippa Funnell (GB), Andrew Nicholson, Mark Todd and Caroline Powell (NZ) and Australia’s Chris Burton.
Mark Todd MBE (two-time Olympic gold medallist) and Andrew Nicholson (World Equestrian Games gold medallist) have both notched up five wins a piece at the event, while fellow New Zealander Tim Price will be looking to add to the Price household’s trophy cabinet following his wife Jonelle’s 2018 Badminton and Luhmühlen wins. He has had three top five placings at Burghley in the past three years with Ringwood Sky Boy, so this is a rider who will have a win firmly in his sights.
At the other end of the experience spectrum will be young first-time Burghley British riders Katie Preston and Charlotte Bacon. These debutants will face strong competition from experienced combinations such as the hugely popular British team regulars Nicola Wilson (individual European Bronze medallist), Kristina Cook and Piggy French (World Equestrian Games silver medallists) who, depending on final team selection, are all strong contenders to be part of team GB at the forthcoming 2018 World Equestrian Games.
Land Rover Burghley Event Director, Elizabeth Inman said: “We are delighted to have such an exciting list of entries, ranging from Olympic and World Class medallists to the very best emerging talent from within the sport. We’re also very excited to showcase Mark Phillips’ 2018 course, which will have an unusual twist this year.”
10 things to do at Burghley
1 Shop till you drop
As always, the shopping at Burghley is a formidable world class event in itself. Like the riders in the cross-country course, those taking on this challenge will have many obstacles to negotiate – not least of which is a melting credit card.
There is everything on offer you could possibly want, straight out of London’s Bond Street, or by bespoke country tailors, luxury goods, rural crafts, bespoke kitchens, furniture, clothing and every gift idea under the sun.
It really has to be seen to be believed, even if you not in the market for a £20,000 garden sculpture, a rocking horse made for royalty or handcrafted wellie boots.
2 Eat great local produce
The Burghley Food Walk should really be named the Burghley Food Waddle, because if you start at one end and snake your way round the aisles, and commit to trying a bit of everything on offer, you may not have to eat until
October. A three-day event of its own, the challenge is in finding the ultimate pork pie, the best sausages, cheese that is nearly alive and cakes that would have Mary Berry retiring from the baking business.
And much of it is local too, so not only are you storing up for winter, but you’ll be helping some brilliant small businesses in the region too, which means each calorie is halved because of your good deed. Probably.
3 Have a drink or two. Or three…
It’s great to take your car and, once laden with produce, go and sit in the boot with your picnic and watch the tweedy world go by. But just make sure you’re not the designated driver, because there is some seriously good booze to get stuck into. From the Pol Roger tent (Winston’s favourite), or local suppliers offering all manner of craft beers, whiskies and ciders, to the packed bars overlooking the cross country course, there’s a tipple for everyone.
The equine veterinary team at Fellowes Farm, based in Cambridgeshire, includes a Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) and European Specialist in Equine Surgery, RCVS Advanced Practitioners in Surgery, Medicine and Dentistry alongside multiple RCVS certificate holders.
Whether its keeping your elite equine athlete at peak performance or caring for your well loved pet we’ve got it covered.
Dressage is a fascinating spectacle and show jumping very tense, but for sheer drama, nothing can beat the six kilometre-plus cross country course, which this year features a flyover, allowing designer Captain Mark Todd to change the direction the course runs in.
Up close, many of the fences tower into the air and to see riders and horses approach them at speed, timing it just perfectly to leap and land without disaster is one of the great dramatic sights in sport. After all, eventing at this level is as dangerous as any motor sport.
If you’ve got the stamina, a trek around the course gets you away from the crowds and to parts of the park that are rarely explored. Helpfully there’s quite a lot of refreshment, even in some of the furthest outposts, so there’s plenty of opportunity for a picnic in a quiet, perfectly mown idyll of your own while the horses race by.
5 Have a go in a Land Rover
Based on the South side of the Lake throughout each day of
the event, the Land Rover Experience gives visitors the thrill of being driven in one of the latest Land Rover vehicles over dynamic display equipment. Carefully designed obstacles have been created to push the off-road capabilities to the absolute limit, showcasing what it’s like to climb steep slopes, wade through deep water and much more…
6 Ride the cross country course…
Want to show off your riding ability? Why not try the simulator featuring six to eight testing fences from the 2016 Land Rover Burghley Cross Country course.
The Musto Mare will be located behind the South Stand of the grandstand near the World of the Horse Pavilion and Lion Bridge and will operate throughout each day of the Event. Spectators will get the chance to be in the saddle for approximately 10 minutes, including a verbal briefing on
8 The Field gun dog display with Adrian Slater
Join renowned Gun Dog trainer Adrian Slater in the Main Arena for an amusing demonstration of his dog handling skills. Adrian’s experience has seen him climb to the top of his field as a professional gun dog trainer performing at some of the most prestigious UK events… don’t miss what is guaranteed to be an informative and highly amusing demonstration.
9 Get lost in the family fun box hedge maze
how to ride the simulator. For those with a competitive spirit, the top three riders of the simulator each day will be in with a chance to win a fantastic prize, provided by Musto. Rides are free but high demand is expected so make sure you book your place when you arrive on the showground.
8 Have a go at dog agility
Located in Discovery Valley close to the Country Living Makers Marquee, leading dog food brand Autarky will be hosting the “Have A Go” Dog Agility where you will be able to put your dog through his or her paces and earn an Autarky goody bag as a reward!
Fun for all the family, big and small, is guaranteed with a brand new activity this year; the Box Hedge Maze at Discovery Valley. The 13m x 13m hedge maze will be manned by volunteers from The Gurkha Welfare Trust and all ages are very welcome to test their sense of direction in the maze. Bring the family and challenge them to see whose sense of direction is best.
10 Face painting fun
A short walk from the Country Living Makers Marquee. Children aged three and over are invited to have their face painted free of charge by friendly and experienced artists D&D Creative Faces. Younger children can have a small area on one arm or hand painted.
Active Tell us how you first started riding and turned it into a career.
Richard: I grew up in Rutland and went to Stamford School. I started riding a farming neighbour’s pony, teaching myself to ride, and got hooked. My parents realised I was keen so I had lessons with Derek Lane from South Luffenham. I joined the Cottesmore Hunt Pony Club and started competing. I went hunting and riding out for people and sort of fell into eventing when I was about 17 or 18. I worked for Stuart Campbell in Leicestershire working on hunters and training young racehorses.
Active: How did you get your first eventing horse?
Richard: Stuart introduced me to Sandra Martin who had a horse she wanted me to ride, Incan Winter, who I got a clear on at Badminton (the only one I’ve had so far!). Sandra was my first client and she’s still with me now. That was about 20 years ago. By then we had stables where we still are now – near South Luffenham – and I was working with five or six horses. It all sort of grew from that first horse.
Active: Then what happened?
Richard: For the next 10 years I built up the business and was very keen, riding for different owners, gaining experience, bringing on horses, selling them, eventing and getting new owners. It was a very busy time. At one point I had 40 horses, five staff and was competing every weekend of the year; it was a mad time, but fun!
Active: How do you train the horses?
Richard: I have a secret weapon, my wife! Boo (Victoria) is an international dressage rider so she trains the horses (and me). At one point she was competing all over Europe but she has now sold her best horse and is bringing on youngsters, competing in this country, and helping me train as well. Di Lampard, who is British show jumping’s performance manager, and also based in Rutland, helps me with show jumping training. We have our own gallops here so I do all the cross-country training and fitness at home.
Meet RICHARD JONES
Mary Bremner chats to Richard Jones about his hopes for this month’s Burghley Horse Trials
Active: So you are very much a competitive, horsey family!
Richard: Yes, I suppose we are. Boo has five horses that she is working with now. Our two children are beginning to show an interest in riding, but we don’t push them. If they want to ride, that’s fine, and they are beginning to start, but we certainly aren’t going to force them. They enjoy coming with us to the competitions, which is great.
Active: Everything changed for you a couple of years ago didn’t it?
Richard: Yes, I had two quite serious accidents in close succession which made me re-think the stables and my career. I’ve been very lucky and never had any serious falls or injuries, thinking I was invincible, until November 2016 when I was out on the road and my horse slipped and fell on me.
It was a completely innocuous thing to happen and I thought I’d just broken my ankle, but ended up nearly losing my foot! My whole foot had been badly crushed and there was talk of amputation but I was very lucky that an orthopaedic surgeon who specialises in American footballers’ injuries, that are often foot related, was able to rebuild my foot. I thought that this could be the end of my career but six months later I was back riding competitively again.
This was a turning point in my career and I decided it was time to downsize the yard and concentrate on my really good horses. We cut back to 20 horses, including Boo’s, and life was going well until June 2017. I was at Blenheim with Alfie and we had had the ride of our lives around the cross-country and were in a very strong position.
But shortly afterwards in the horse box I had a freak accident where my wedding ring got caught and my finger was ripped off. So that was game over for me and Alfie as, obviously, I couldn’t compete in the show jumping. It was such a pity. Again, this could have ended my career as it was difficult to hold the reins and control a horse. But I was determined to get back as I have the best horse in Alfie and
wanted to get him round his first Burghley that September, and I did. It was agony but getting him round last year has set us up for this September. Whilst rehabilitating after my foot injury I qualified as a coach so now am doing more coaching and training, which I enjoy.
Active: Tell us about Alfie
Richard: Alfie, or Alfie’s Clover as he is officially known, is my top 10 horse. I own him with Sandra Martin and Dinah Saunders and bought him from Ireland as an unbroken three-year old. He’s now 11, and I’ve taken him up through the ranks to where he is now, a fabulous 4* horse. I love Irish horses and think to make a top class eventer you need some thoroughbred in the lines. This gives the horse speed and stamina. They have been bred for the endurance side of the sport, and because of this usually stay sound. Alfie is almost at his peak, 13 is usually the best age for an eventer. I’m very excited about him. We were placed 7th at Bramham in June and are now focusing on Burghley.
Active: What are your hopes for Burghley?
Richard: We were 21st last year (despite my finger) and I will be very disappointed if we don’t get a top 10 position this year, Alfie is that good. Burghley is the ideal ground for him, and if it rains, even better, as we have a great advantage then as Alfie is so strong; so pray for rain! I’ve ridden round Burghley many times, three of them clear, including last year. It’s so familiar to me as I’ve been going since I was a youngster. If I could win as a local it would be fabulous! I know I have the horse that is capable of it. Now it is about being able to create a performance and executing it on the day.
Active: Which is your favourite – Burghley or Badminton?
Richard: That’s a difficult one as I am so familiar with Burghley, attending since I was a child so it is almost like coming home. Badminton is very special when you see the house (probably like people feel at Burghley too) and the atmosphere is very intense. But for me, this year, it’s all about Burghley and doing well with Alfie.
JULIE PRIESTLY/DODSON
This image and below A common sight at many Pony Club meets, but rules mean certain drivers need to take a test before towing a trailer such as a horsebox
TOWCAR CHALLENGE
Publisher Chris Meadows puts his driving skills to the test as he embarks on a crash course in towing a horsebox
IT’S NO SURPRISE that the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials has developed into such a vast event. With a large population locally of horse lovers, be it for eventing, hunting, point-to-pointing or just a social afternoon hack around the myriad of local bridle paths, the event is perfectly located.
The event is a major global equestrian event, and the majority of the 4* eventers will turn up in a horse lorry larger than the average house, probably because they spend more time in them than their actual houses.
For those taking part in many of the other events at the horse trials, such as the Dubarry Burghley Young Event Horse, a horse trailer is a more common mode of transport. Observing from afar, owning a horse seems a challenge in itself, but if you passed your driving test after 1997 you have another issue if you want to transport your beloved four-legged friend around the country to the various events, rides or lessons. You’ll need to take a trailer testtechnically known as the B+E test.
It’s not so much of a problem if you have a doting parent or two that fall into the above category of a pre-’97 pass, but they may not always be on hand to help.
to get my head round the four hours breezed by as Malcolm imparted his knowledge.
I was then at the hands of Dean, the DVSA instructor for the next 75 minutes of the test. It starts with an eye test along with the ‘show and tell’ questions, where you’re asked some basic mechanical questions. It’s then on to the reversing manoeuvre and after that a hitch and unhitch. It nearly fell apart at this point as I reversed perilously close to one of the cones, but I survived. I then managed to draw blood on a finger trying to hitch the trailer but it went unnoticed thankfully and again I made it to the next hurdle, the road element of the test.
When on the road there are more set manoeuvres that require a demonstration in proficiency, along with an ‘independent driving’ session where you’re expected to follow signs to a destination for about ten minutes without any aid from the instructor. At the end of all this you then receive your result on the spot.
I don’t own a horse, nor plan to in the foreseeable future, but Land Rover was keen to show off the Advanced Tow Assist technology in the new Velar and sent me one on short-term loan (see more on this over the page). In order to see what it could do I was going to need to be able to legally hitch up a trailer and head out on the road.
I booked the first available test slot in Peterborough, which was just five days later: with limited experience of trailer driving I wasn’t hopeful; a lack of optimism that was shared by all I had informed of my plan.
Having realised that I may have bitten off a little more than I could chew, I searched for companies that could offer some guidance. I lucked out when I spoke to Vyginta at Apex Training Centre in Peterborough, who must have heard the desperation in my voice and thankfully offered me a last minute training session with Malcolm, the owner of Apex, for a few hours before my test.
With a test booked in at 11:30am I spent the preceding four hours with Malcolm guiding me through what I’d need to know when out on the examination.
There are quite a few nuances that are needed to pass. Using your wing mirrors is key and there is a set trailer reverse manoeuvre that you have to perform, ensuring you get the trailer into a coned out box and to a specific point. None of which I was aware of beforehand. With so much
A maximum of 15 minors are permitted but any serious or dangerous faults are an automatic fail. Dean asked if I’d like Malcolm to listen in on the result. I wasn’t sure if it was to revel in my glory or to help console me. Thankfully I’d only amassed three minor faults during the test, so it was a pass. I can honestly say I wouldn’t have passed without Malcolm’s knowledge.
Speaking to Malcolm after the test, he was keen to stress that it’s not the usual route most take. He’d recommend giving plenty of time to prepare for the test and also suggested doing at least two sessions on consecutive days to go over any problems. In hindsight I’d fully agree too. www.apextrainingcentres.co.uk
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A towing mar-Velar
HAVING PASSED your test you’ll need something to tow your trailer with so we spoke to Burghley Horse Trials title sponsor Land Rover, which sent us a new Velar to try out.
Land Rover seems to have a knack of continuing to create niche markets and the Velar is no exception filling the ‘white noise’, according to Land Rover, between the Evoque and Range Rover Sport. Both of those, along with the new Discovery, are already big favourites locally and I’m sure the Velar will start to make a firm appearance too. It has a very different look to the rest of the fleet though. It’s much sleeker and will no doubt appeal to a wider market. The automatic retractable door handles are a nice touch, too.
With or without a trailer on the back the Velar is a delight to drive. We tried the 3.0-litre diesel version and its acceleration is effortless for such a large vehicle, no doubt thanks to the 296bhp V6 twin-turbo engine, that still offers 40mpg. The ride is comfortable too due to the air suspension which comes as standard and our top-spec Velar also had the 20-way electrically adjustable seats that very pleasantly featured a massage option.
If you’ll be towing trailers on a regular basis the Advanced Tow Assist technology is a must; you’ll then never have to worry about which way to steer the car when reversing a trailer again.
Setting up a trailer will require some basic dimensions of the trailer. You’ll also need to attach a rather odd looking triangle with three dots to the front of the trailer. Once hitched up, start the car and simply run through the self-explanatory on-screen instructions. Upon the touch of a button the onboard computer will put the control of the steering wheel down to a
dial in the centre console. You then just need to follow the lines on the screen, turning the dial accordingly for where you want the trailer to go. It’s quite an odd experience to start with, but once you get to grips with the technology it will help make you look like a pro when you arrive at your first ever gymkhana. What happens when you take the horse out of the trailer isn’t quite as predictable, and you’re on your own with that I’m afraid.
As expected the automatically retractable tow bar is an additional option, and at £985 it’s not the cheapest, but there is something very satisfying about being able to be sitting inside the car while deploying the tow bar from the comfort of a heated, massaging seat. No more greasy black hands thankfully, you’d get horrible marks over the luxurious suede steering wheel otherwise.
The diesel version we tested was highly specced and came in at £68,000. The Velar does start at a more reasonable £44,735 for the 2.0-litre option though. If you’re in the market for a horse as well it’ll be pocket change in comparison to what that will probably cost you in the long run.
You can test out the Velar and latest towing technologies at the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials (30 Aug-2 Sept) in the Land Rover Experience Area next to Lion Bridge. www.landrover.co.uk
Active Kids
● How much risk should expose your kids too?
● Defeat the fussy eaters - some sneaky, healthy food recipes.
● School kitbag: it’s time to gear up for the autumn term!
● Losing at snoozing? 10 tips for getting your kids better sleep
● Plus school and sport news and places to go
Edited by Steve Moody
WELCOME
Welcome to the first of our new section: Active Kids. Over the years of putting Active together, we’ve always featured lots about activities to do with your kids but with this new regular section we’ll be taking that one step further. We’ll still be highlighting places to go and new things to try but we will also be looking in much greater depth at childhood, and parenthood for that matter.
We’ll be looking into development, education, health and family matters, trying to help answer those question parents have about their children and giving advice and expert opinion on the most important years of your life. There are so many pressures on kids today, and they are far more aware of those pressures than children of previous generations. As a result, we’ll be devoting significant time in the magazine to how we can help our children grow into the adults we want them to be. I hope it proves to be useful and interesting for you, and of course if you have suggestions for subjects you’d like us to explore, please get in touch.
Designs for Living from Estu Kitchens
MAKE YOUR KIDS SLEEPING SUPERSTARS!
Having problems getting your children to sleep, or to sleep for long enough? Follow our tips for endless great nights...
You’ve got through the baby stage and are all set to get some of your life (and sleep) back as your kids get beyond toddling and actually start acting like sentient beings.
And yet. Still sleep patterns are all over the place, they are going to nursery or school tired and grumpy, and you’re going to work, tired and grumpy. And in the evenings, getting them to settle in bed for more than five minutes without appearing downstairs is near impossible.
So what can you do? Here are our tips for turning your children from wide awake animals into sleeping beauties.
Ditch digital
Get all screens (including yours) switched off at least an hour before bed. These activities are stimulating and can interfere with falling asleep and staying asleep.
Create an ideal sleeping environment
Your child’s room should help promote sleeping. It’s best to keep their room dark, quiet and cool. Some children (especially the very young) want at least a little light in their room, so a nightlight or a dim light is acceptable. If they can’t sleep in silence or you want to drown out some of the noises from the rest of the house, use a noise machine or a fan to create a rhythmic, steady sound.
Set up a bedtime routine
There needs to be a proper transition between day and night, so that kids will subconsciously understand what’s about to happen. Dim the lights, cuddle your child and grab a book. WebMD recommends the four Bs: bath, brushing teeth, books and bed. Experts say the
routine should last between 30 minutes and an hour before the child should be asleep.
Start the routine early enough
You can’t control how long your child sleeps, but you should try to start the routine at around the same time each day. If your child is showing signs of being frequently overtired, try moving the routine start time 30 minutes earlier.
Stay consistent
Everyone in the family has to maintain the routine, which is hard if parents’ schedules are irregular. Try to stick to the plan because doing the same steps each night actually can help the child fall asleep more easily by giving his or her body cues it is time to induce sleep. And part of this is: don’t give in! If you do, kids will keep hopping out of bed every night.
Make sure they’re not over-tired
Between homework, play dates and after-school activities, children can be up way too late. Being over-tired can actually lead to hyperactivity in many kids, which can make it even more difficult to fall asleep at bedtime. If your child is regularly up past his or her bedtime working on homework, find ways to manage other after-school activities to make more time for homework or talk to your child’s teacher about how to help her with her workload.
Be on the lookout for signs of sleep disorders
If you’ve established a consistent routine and made adjustments to fit your child’s needs and they are still having difficulties, your child may have a sleep disorder. Keep a close eye on sleeping behaviours and patterns as well as how they function during the day.
BACK TO SCHOOL
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Pip Stewart
Is it time we re-evaluated the choices we make and the resulting impact we are having on the world?
Wednesday 19 September 7.30pm
Tickets £12 (£10 concessions) £9 RGS Members (and a guest)
Why not start your walk or ride at Launde then reward yourself with a delicious lunch at the end?
Visit our website for maps and routes at www.laundeabbey.org.uk Launde Abbey, East Norton, Leicestershire LE7 9XB T: 01572 717254 I E: info@launde.org.uk
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CHEEKY CHILLI
Serves four kids
Want to get a load of vegetables into your kids without them noticing? Try this cheeky chilli recipe, which is really very chilli-ish, but without the heat...
Ingredients
One onion
One carrot
Half an aubergine
Half a courgette
Half a red pepper
500g lean beef mince
Tin of tomatoes
1 tbsp tomato puree
Beef stock cube
Dash of paprika
Dash of cumin
Tin of red kidney beans in water
Cheddar cheese
Corn tortillas
Method
● Slice and dice all the vegetables up as finely as you dare, then pour a tablespoon of olive oil in a saucepan and add them in.
● Once the vegetables have softened add the beef and brown.
● Sprinkle the paprika and cumin – but don’t add too much. If you think they’ll want a stronger taste you can always add more later.
● Next, pour in the tomatoes and add the puree, mixing well, and the stock cube. Then top up with water so the liquid is level with the meat and vegetables. Drain the kidney beans and add to the chilli.
● Reduce the heat and leave to simmer for about half an hour or until the liquid is reduced and the chilli is a uniform reddy-brown, cunningly hiding all the vegetables.
● Bake the corn tortillas in an oven at 200 degree C for about five minutes until until crispy, and then serve them with the chilli and a sprinkling of cheese.
JAPANESE CHICKEN NUGGETS
Serves two kids
A variation on the Japanese ‘fast food’ chicken karaage, the great thing about these is you can freeze them and pop them back in the oven for 20 minutes to re-heat. They are way tastier and better for kids than those processed ones – and you can sell it on the fact it’s just the sort of thing ninjas eat for their tea!
Ingredients
Two chicken breasts
1 tsp miso paste
1 finely chopped clove of garlic
1 tsp soy sauce
1/5 tsp sugar
50g panko breadcrumbs
50g rice flour
1 egg
Vegetable oil
Noodles
1 carrot
Half a cucumber
Method
● Mix the miso, garlic, soy sauce and sugar together to make a marinade.
● Chop the chicken breasts into nugget size chunks and marinade for at least an hour in the paste.
● Mix the flour and breadcrumbs together, then break the egg into a separate bowl and dip the chicken pieces in the egg, and then roll in to the flour and breadcrumbs.
● Heat the vegetable oil in a deep saucepan and test to see if it’s hot enough by dropping a panko breadcrumb in. When it starts to fizz, you’re ready to go.
● Drop the nuggets in to the hot fat and cook until the coating has gone a golden colour and the chicken is cooked.
● Boil the noodles until soft, and using a grater, grate strips of carrot and cucumber to accompany, then plate the lot up.
Got a cunning chef trick? Tell us about it!
Have you got clever recipes for feeding kids stuff they don’t really want, or introducing them to new flavours without freaking them out? We’d love to hear your recipes –email editor@theactivemag.com
A game of jeopardy
It’s hard not to wrap your children in cotton wool and protect them from potential harm, but letting them explore and understand risk is essential to their development.
By Lily Canter
A PARENT’S NATURAL instinct is to protect their child and it can become second nature to automatically issue warnings such as “be careful” and “don’t do that, you’ll hurt yourself”.
But allowing children to assess risks for themselves is a crucial part of their physical, social and emotional development from a very early age. And despite immense feelings to the contrary, it is beneficial rather than irresponsible to allow your children to take risks.
By allowing them to do something slightly dangerous you are developing their survival instinct and lowering the risk of them seeking potentially fatal thrills elsewhere.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has recognised for a number of years that risky play enables children to understand their abilities and prepares them for the realities of the world in which we live.
In 2012, HSE chairperson Judith Hackitt blogged on the topic of outdoor play, making the bold statement that we should “let our children take a risk” referring back to her own adventurous childhood.
She added: “If you fell out of a tree, it hurt. But it taught you either what not to do next time, or that tree climbing was not for you. It gave you a healthy respect for the physical world around you, what risks you could reasonably take and what to do differently next time.”
Fear of litigation and the ‘compensation culture’ has been the driving force behind the over-protection of children, but the HSE now states that accidents and mistakes will happen during play and anxiety around prosecution should not be blown out of proportion.
In fact the pendulum has now swung so far the other way that being over-protective is now a form of emotional abuse under the latest safeguarding children policy, as it is
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recognised that children will never learn about risk if they are wrapped in cotton wool.
So why is it so good to let your children take risks and why should you start as soon as they are on the move?
“Children blossom when allowed to take risks,” says Ben Kingston-Hughes, director of Inspired Children, which works with parents, teachers and childcare providers across Rutland, Leicestershire and the East Midlands. His organisation trains adults on how to enable children to take risks and he is a strong advocate of adventurous play.
“Play teaches you how to be an adult. It helps you to cope with fear and handle yourself in dangerous situations. The more we allow children to take risks and have freedom of choice the more they can learn to assess themselves and work things out,” says Ben.
From a young age, children have a range of physical competences and abilities, including a growing ability to assess and manage risk, which adults tend to underestimate.
Try stepping back and letting your child slide head first down the stairs or jump off a climbing wall and see how they assess the risk. You may be surprised. You may find that they decide to turn around at the last minute or that they lower themselves before jumping because they are able to judge the risk of injury. And even if they do hurt
themselves they are most likely to adjust their behaviour the next time they try it.
By taking a risk and learning from the consequences, whether that be a bump, scrape, or just embarrassment, children understand the consequences of their actions and adjust them accordingly.
Ben argues that parents and guardians should take a risk benefit judgement as even the slight risk of broken bones may not outweigh the huge developmental benefits of doing something mildly dangerous.
“You can’t find your limits without pushing them,” says Ben. “A toddler is not going to kill themselves by jumping off the sofa. They might bang themselves and cry but it is part of the learning process. The mental health benefits are huge; it develops the brain and builds resilience, selfesteem and self-reliance,” he adds.
This is echoed by the UK Play Safety Forum which points out that children would never learn to walk, climb the stairs or ride a bike unless they were strongly motivated to respond to challenges involving a risk of injury.
So by covering up table corners to stop toddlers from bumping themselves or preventing older kids from climbing high in the trees, we are actually slowing their development and ability to gain experience from their actions.
Allowing children to take risks while playing helps with their development
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Disabled children especially need to be allowed to take risks as they are even more likely to be protected by adults.
“I will never forget the little girl in the wheelchair racing down a hill. She asked if she could do it and I said yes. She was so excited,” says Ben.
When children are able to judge a situation themselves it has a huge impact on self-esteem and confidence as they feel a massive sense of achievement when they do overcome a risky situation, such as clambering up a wall or jumping out of a tree. The physical benefits are massive too, as risk taking enables children to develop their balance, co-ordination and strength as well as their awareness of their surroundings.
As children get older it is also important to allow them to test their limits as they will actively seek out risk. If risk is not provided in play they may deliberately seek out risk in potentially life-threatening situations such as playing on a building site or a railway line.
And worrying about a child hurting themselves in a playground makes little sense – of the two million accidents treated by hospitals each year less than 2% involve playground equipment. Your child is much more likely to be injured playing a team sport yet these are seen as healthy activities.
Fatalities on playgrounds are also extremely rare, with only one death per three or four years on average. This compares with more than 100 child pedestrian fatalities a year and around 500 child fatalities from accidents overall.
The important thing to remember is that each child is different and you still need to step in when necessary.
“It is not about what you do, it’s about how children feel about it and all children are different. It is the feeling of slight fear combined with happiness and excitement that is key,” adds Ben.
So next time you find yourself about to say “be careful” to your child, maybe stop and say nothing at all.
HOW TO ASSESS RISK
Guidelines from the Play Safety Forum advise parents and carers to assess the risk of any activity by looking at three factors to determine whether the level of risk is acceptable or tolerable. These factors are the likelihood of the person coming to harm, the severity of that harm, and the benefits, rewards or outcomes of the activity.
Even where there is a risk of fatal or permanent disabling injury, this risk may sometimes be tolerable. For example, going paddling at the seaside involves an unavoidable risk of fatal injury as a child could potentially drown. However, this risk is seen as tolerable for most people because the likelihood of coming to harm is very low and the benefits of paddling are obvious.
So rather than making a risk assessment, make a risk-benefit judgement. Is the fun, thrill and experience worth taking a risk for?
“Worrying about a child hurting themselves in the playground makes little sense”
Manor High School
OPEN EVENING
THURSDAY 20 SEPTEMBER 2018 6.00-8.00pm
Learn about our strong values, curriculum and vibrant school community
Discover our outstanding pastoral care provision, including before and after school
Experience our expertise in Key Stage 3 and GCSE ensuring deep mastery in subjects that are right for your child
Our school bus service allows easy access for families from further afield
From age 11-16, your child’s five-year journey to success starts here
OPEN MORNINGS
Come to our excellent school during the day - parents and children are welcome
See our inspiring teaching and learning in practice
Speak to our friendly staff and students about our caring and respectful school
Find out about our extra-curricular activities and events
Experience for yourself the “Magic of Manor”
Book your places on our Open Mornings online now at: www.manorhigh.leics.sch.uk
To the Manor born
Manor High School is 50 years old this year and it continues to innovate and expand
What was happening half a century ago?
Harold Wilson was Prime Minister, the Bee Gees’ ‘I’ve gotta get a message to You’ gave way to the anthemic ‘Hey Jude’ by the Beatles, there were riots in Europe and America, the Prague Spring rose and was crushed and the countdown to the lunar landings began.
Meanwhile, far away, in Oadby, the construction of a new school designed for 720 11-14 year olds neared completion and the first students and staff were about to become part of the launch of Manor High.
The school was designed to be a part of a comprehensive system known as the Leicestershire Plan, with three tiers of education from primary to middle to upper. The architectural design was considered state of the art at the time and was reportedly the first bespoke 11-14 school in Europe. Mr Walter Higgins JP, who received an OBE in the 1974 New Year’s honours’ list, was the school’s first headteacher.
A few years later, the school extended its age range downwards to take in 10-year-olds and Brookside Primary was opened to provide education for children aged between four and 10.
So began a relationship between the two sister schools. This moved into a new phase earlier in 2018 as both establishments became founder members of the Oadby and
Knighton Multi-Academies Trust (OAK MAT) along with Overdale Juniors, Overdale Infants and Woodland Grange Primary.
Always ahead of the curve, Manor High School took greater control of its destiny and the on-going successes of its students by becoming an academy in 2011. If a change is coming, Manor doesn’t hide cowering behind the sofa – it seizes the opportunity and does what is best for the children and the community. Where Manor High led, others swiftly followed.
In 2016, seven years after the removal of SATs for 14 year olds, Manor High once again looked to the horizon, liaised with its neighbouring partner schools and consulted to change its age range from 10-14 to 11-16. Finally, children would benefit from continuity and stability in the school they loved. In 2017, Manor High grew the school upwards with its first ever Year 10 and GCSE cohort. Now, it eagerly awaits its first full round of GCSEs, for which it has spent many years preparing, in 2019.
And so we come to 2018, a year of significant anniversaries in the UK. It is 100 years since the end of the First World War and women gained the right to vote. It is 50 years since Manor High opened during a period of great social, political and economic transformation. So much change, so many young futures developed, so many doors
opened and a huge, glittering alumni of successes and personal achievements.
The school has never stood still and always looks boldly to the future. Its key mantra is to do the right things for the right reasons. Of the thousands of students who have passed through this happy and thriving school, teachers still hear numerous accounts of the many ways in which it touched people’s lives and secured their future successes.
They often refer to the #MagicofManor, the buzz factor and the indescribable energy. Embracing change whilst maintaining traditional ethos and values helps to explain this. In most schools, it takes around six weeks for new students to settle but at Manor High, this happens in under two weeks. Older students support younger ones through an advanced model of vertical tutoring and programmes of student leadership.
As the school reaches its fiftieth birthday, children and staff are benefiting and learning from the close relationship between partner schools in the OAK Trust. Great opportunities are taken throughout the year to share learning in science, the arts, sport, mathematics, reading, drama and languages across the ages from three to 16. This is truly exciting and life changing. You will be able to find out more at the open evening on Thursday, September 20.
On September 7, 2018, the school will open its doors to the community and celebrate 50 years of sharing the joy of learning. Everyone is welcome! There will be stalls, exhibitions, a full film of the school being constructed in 1968, a glimpse into the fashions and arts of the time and a chance to meet past and present staff, students and families. Come along and join in the fun!
If you attended Manor High School at any time in the last 50 years we would love to hear from you. Please complete the brief survey to let us know your memories of our school.
https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/MHS-50
NEW PROGRAMME FOR YOUTH DRAMA
Tolethorpe Youth Drama (TYD) has announced a new programme for the autumn under the direction of a new principal.
Operating since 2001 and providing professional drama classes for children and young people in the region, it is now under the direction of new principal, Mary Benzies.
Incorporating a greater use of the Stamford Shakespeare Company’s facilities and location, the programme will feature opportunities to train, make and perform innovative, exciting theatre in a variety of settings and venues.
Working alongside the Stamford Shakespeare Company, students will have the chance to take part in special events which will help bring to life the works of Shakespeare. Weekly Drama workshops will be complemented throughout the year by specialist workshops and master classes, led by visiting industry practitioners in areas such as stage combat, singing, technical theatre, dance, TV and film. Holiday workshops will be held during the summer and half-term
holidays and a new younger foundation class for 5-7 year olds is also being introduced.
Mary Benzies brings more than 25 years’ experience of making theatre with children and young people and is delighted to be taking on this new role at TYD.
She said: “Having taught at TYD for several years, I am aware of the unique and magical place it is and believe in the huge potential for growth and development here. I think drama is about ‘play’, finding your voice and creatively exploring the world around you, whether you are on a path to pursuing a career in the business or simply want a few hours on a Saturday morning to be creative.
“We aim to offer that experience and really look forward to welcoming many new young “players” and theatre makers to TYD this Autumn.”
The year starts on September 15. For more information, visit www.tolethorpeyouthdrama.co.uk or email tyd@stamfordshakespeare.co.uk
BRONZE FOR ROWERS
Stamford High School pupil Charlotte Bolton and her partner Poppy Shipley (both members of the Isle of Ely Rowing Club) were crowned bronze medallists at the British Rowing Junior Championships in the WJ15 x 2 sculling event held at the National Water Sports Centre in Nottingham. This latest win is the third success for Charlotte (pictured below right with Poppy) in the last few months after securing the Women’s Junior National Rowing Championship with Poppy in the 15x2 sculling event on the Olympic rowing lake at Eton Dorney. This was preceded by Charlotte securing third at the National Junior Indoor Rowing Championships in the Year 10 sprint.
CRICKETING PARTNERSHIP LAUNCHED
Leicestershire County Cricket Club and Ratcliffe College have announced a new partnership. Ratcliffe College is to become the official home venue for the Leicestershire Young Cricketers’ under 12 to under 15 county cricket programme. The first matches partnership will be hosted at Ratcliffe next summer.
Leicestershire CCC Academy director Andy Siddall said: “This partnership will greatly benefit the Young Cricketers’ programme as the club will enjoy using the excellent facilities at Ratcliffe for home fixtures.
“In previous years, our fixtures have been held at Ratcliffe and at local clubs where we have been most grateful for the support. However, it will be a major step forward to have a permanent summer base for our younger age groups in an idyllic setting.”
In addition, Ratcliffe College continues to invest in its facilities, which includes a new pavilion.
The college’s ground staff continue to receive expert advice from their fellow groundsmen at Leicestershire CCC.
Headmaster of Ratcliffe College, Jonathan Reddin, warmly endorsed this exciting new initiative.
He said: “Ratcliffe College is very excited about our partnership with Leicestershire County Cricket Club.
“We have enjoyed a strong relationship with the club for many years, but this new initiative will help our boys and girls develop their talents even further whilst at the same time providing first class facilities for Leicestershire Young Cricketers to enjoy their home fixtures.”
From left: Tracey Nightingale, cricket partnership manager, Ratcliffe College; Jonathan Reddin, headmaster, Ratcliffe College; Andy Siddall, Leicestershire County Cricket Club Academy director; Amanda Stafford, director of sport, Ratcliffe College; David Robson, director of finance, Ratcliffe College
Open: Mon – Fri 8.30am to 6.30pm, Sat 8.30am to 12 noon. Free Parking
32 Main Street, Great Casterton, Stamford, Lincs. PE9 4AA
A veterinary practice with a difference –your pet is our priority
• Two fully equipped operating theatres, imaging suite and separate hospital facilities for cats & dogs
• In-house laboratory with blood machine allowing quicker test results and diagnosis
• Pet Healthcare Plans to help spread the cost of yearly vaccinations, worming & flea treatments for your pets
• 24 hour emergency service operated by our team
• Complimentary flea & worming treatments for new puppies and kittens
• Dental hygiene facilities, BVA hip and elbow scoring, E.C.G, pet passports and ultrasound
• Free puppy parties run by our own qualified dog trainer
Runners up in the Veterinary Awards for 2017 for ‘Practice of The Year’ (out of 8500 practices)
Consultations by appointment
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SAND, SWEAT AND TEARS
Simon Davies is frustrated as he’s let his fitness slip so now needs to work hard to get fit for his final Ultra
I find it hard to believe that it’s eight weeks since I completed the Jungle Ultra – the second of three Ultra Marathon races I’m trying to complete this year to raise money for Rainbows Children’s Hospice. The month off from running I had promised myself somehow slipped into two, and I’ve not been to the gym. Therefore I’ve put on a bit of weight and lost what feels like all of my running fitness.
I went out for a steady 10-mile run and couldn’t believe how difficult it was. I had heavy legs, struggled with the heat and had to stop and walk numerous times; I was horrified. I even came home with a blister, something I managed to avoid while racing 300 miles during the Arctic and Jungle Ultras. A few months ago a 10-mile run would have been the shortest and easiest of my weekly training sessions!
IT’S THE FINAL COUNTDOWN!
Mark Smith is weeks away from starting his mammoth run down the length of the UK
Medical injections in the heel of my foot, eating 3,500-plus calories a day, running back-to-back marathons at weekends, running halfmarathons and then 30 miles back-to-back, focused gym sessions with my coach Adam Jackson at Code Fitness in Newark, sports massages, early morning running before work, foam rolling my body morning and evening, and on top of all that running 70 miles a week, working full time and averaging 40,000 plus steps a day – that is my life at the moment!
The last 12 months have been a whirlwind. So far we have raised £3,942.50, but I am aiming to raise a massive £50,000 to help find a cure for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
By the time you read this I will have started the challenge which kicks off on September 1 at
I’m frustrated with myself that I’ve lost my running pace and endurance so quickly, but at least it’s shocked me and given me the motivation I was lacking to start training again. The final stage of my challenge is the Desert Ultra which takes place in the Namib Desert in early November. The race is 160 miles of running over five stages, and features a terrifying final day of over 56 miles. As with the other two races, competitors have to carry everything they need to survive including food, clothing, sleeping equipment and medical supplies.
The terrain is a mixture of sand, rocky plateaux and mountain trails and the temperature can reach over 45ºC. It’s definitely the heat that I’m most concerned about with this race. I know from past experience that I struggle to eat and drink when I overheat so I’m going to try and find a different food source before this race.
I have three months to get back in shape for the Desert Ultra, which I know should be enough time for me. As this is the last of the three races I’d love to complete it in style, so I’m going to do everything I can to arrive on the start line, race fit, injury free and in the best possible shape.
The break from running and training has at least allowed me more time to focus on my fund-raising for Rainbows and I’ve organised a charity evening – The Jungle Ball – at the beginning of September. I’ve managed to sell all 250 tickets for the evening so I’m confident that the evening will allow me to hopefully exceed, what’s left of my £25,000 target.
If you’d like to find out more about my challenge, or if you’re able to donate to Rainbows, you can do so at icedesertjungle.com. Any amount you can spare – no matter how small – will be hugely appreciated. I have covered all the expenses for Ice Desert Jungle myself so every single penny you can spare will go directly to where it’s needed the most. www.icedesertjungle.com
John O’Groats. The next 30 days will push me to the limit testing my physical fitness and my mental strength. I know there will be times when I have to push my body when it starts screaming at me to stop.
I will average 31 miles per day, running 900 miles in total and I know I will hit many walls and experience some very dark moments. I plan for it to take me 13 days to reach England, and by then will have already covered 416 miles. I will be looking forward to my first (and only) rest day on the Scottish borders on day 15. Then I will head south through Cumbria before running along the Lancashire Canal down towards the banks of the river Severn.
This, hopefully, will be the calm before the storm when I tackle the hills of Devon and Cornwall during the last week finishing at Land’s End on September 30.
https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/marksmith6
SURFING AND SERIOUS SPEED
Charlie Martin enjoys trying a different car and going flat out
I can’t remember a July that’s been quite as hot or action packed as this one. The month started with a surf trip to Lisbon.
Six hours after returning home, I had a quick turn around and was out of the door again on a road trip through France to test a Ligier JSP3, more commonly known as an LMP3 car (Le Mans Prototype). It’s the entry-level race car in its class for anyone wanting to race in endurance series around the world. The term ‘entry-level’ doesn’t really do it justice, as it has a 5.0-litre Nissan V8 engine that produces just under 500bhp, and enough downforce to practically glue it to the track. This car is every bit as serious as it looks.
It was an incredible experience that left me grinning like a schoolgirl for days, and I’m now thinking hard about what happens next season...
A week later and I was back through the Eurotunnel once more, this time bound for Spa Francorchamps in Belguim for the fifth round of
the Ginetta GT5 Challenge. I’ve been looking forward for a long time to racing at this legendary circuit, sunk deep in the forests of the Ardennes. The track is renowned for both its undulating length and capricious weather. And it’s also the home of Eau Rouge – one of the most notorious bits of tarmac in racing – a fast sequence of uphill bends that only the brave are able to take completely flat out without lifting their foot off the accelerator.
It was a mixed weekend for me on the track. We suffered some problems with the rear brakes locking which hampered my pace in practice. But it all came together in race two on Sunday. I made a flying start and by the exit of the first corner had charged 10 places up the grid to lead the Am class.
Sadly this wasn’t to last, and contact from a car behind caused me spin off with only two laps left of the race. No podium this time, but at least I took Eau Rouge flat!
Following the setting sun
Olivia Achurch and Matt Knight are planning to cycle across the UK – from east to west – to raise money for the Motor Neurone Disease Association.
They begin in Great Yarmouth on September 1 before peddling inland, hoping to reach Aberystwyth just three days later. The duo will be travelling more than 300 miles, camping along the way. With 14,000ft of ascent, a likely headwind and panniers stuffed with gear to ensure they can be self-sufficient, they will be ready for Welsh cakes and rarebit by the time they reach Cardigan Bay!
The inspiration for the journey came from Matt’s grandfather, Ron Knight MBE, who drove the same route in 1987 for charity on a vintage tractor. They are going to follow in his tyre tracks and do the same journey on bikes for the Motor Neurone Disease Association – a cause very close to their hearts since Matt’s
brother-in-law was diagnosed with the disease last year. Olivia and Matt are hoping to raise at least £1,500 for the charity, which not only funds essential medical research, but also offers financial and practical support to people diagnosed with MND.
If you would like to follow their journey or donate, visit www.justgiving.com/liv-and-matt.
WATER WATER EVERYWHERE, AND NOT A DROP TO DRINK
Pip Franks tells us how she got on learning to canoe, and the last minute plans before the start of the From Source to Sea Challenge, when the team will travel from the source of the River Spey to its mouth in the Moray Firth...
“Canoe training was great fun. I did spend a bit of time in the water, but everyone at Wansford was so helpful and very generous with their time. The first time I got in the canoe I did have to literally ask how to paddle, but I guess the only way is up. As well as basic paddling skills we learnt how to rescue the canoe, and ourselves, should we end up in the drink, but with any luck that will be a skill that I don’t have to perfect.
With just under two weeks until we catch our flight to Inverness we’re finalising itineraries and kit lists and making last minute plans. The river is very, very low because of lack of rain so it is looking likely we are going to have to hike a lot further than previously thought. We had expected to hike around 35km until we reached a point on the river that was navigable for a canoe, but that is looking to be closer to 75km now, unless we get a significant amount of rain.
The aim of the challenge is to complete it unsupported so we are carrying all the food, water and equipment that we’re going to need. Water has been one of our biggest headaches as having to boil water will take too much time, and fuel, and it will be too heavy to carry bottled water, unless we drafted in a pony, so we’ve invested in filtration bottles which will hopefully do the trick.
If you would like to donate to the Rob Stephenson Trust or follow our progress, go to www. virginmoneygiving.com/ Source2Sea2018.
CLIMB UP THE EVENTING LADDER
Julia Dungworth, contributor
Finally I feel like we are nearly there! Gala has been behaving impeccably (most of the time) and has lost some of his ‘flightiness’ without losing his eagerness.
We’ve managed a few events, the first being Keysoe which, again, was as a lucky event for us. He still had a few ‘concentration’ issues in the dressage, but went on to jump a beautiful double clear, where I finally found that I could push him cross-country without the fear of being run away with, so only added a couple of time penalties to finish seventh in the Novice section.
Then it was off to Offchurch Bury the following week, again back down a level to do the 105 (although I have to admit it was just like a Novice from start to finish), where again Gala
kept his cool for another double clear and another seventh place finish.
We then made the short trip to Buckminster, where I felt like we had finally cracked the dressage. Unfortunately, the judge didn’t agree and gave us a worse mark than we had previously, then a very unlucky four faults at the last fence in the show jumping resulted in me riding a little half-hearted for the speed on the cross-country, but still resulting in a 10th place.
Now it’s time for the big test – first we’re heading to Aston Le Walls to contest our first Intermediate, then a few days later we’re in the Open Intermediate at BEDE’s new event at Osborne House on the Isle of Wight.
Reduce my waistline
Will Hetherington, contributor
I’m weighing in somewhere around 104kg (having been up to 113kg), so I still have more to lose, but it’s going in the right direction.
I’m trying to eat a lot more fruit and veg and a lot less chocolate and crisps, which has made a big difference. In fact, I stopped buying chocolate and crisps in January and I’ve really noticed the difference. If it’s not in the house you can’t eat it! But if somebody else offers me chocolate, I don’t turn it down.
I did walk 530 miles across Spain from May 16 to June 24, so it was inevitable I would lose some weight, but nobody told me beforehand that the Camino de Santiago is also one of the longest pub crawls in the world, so perhaps the extra alcohol intake negated some of the good work on the road.
I’m not going to beat myself up too much about it though, because it felt like I had earned those cold beers and red wines every night. I walked an average of 25km every day but some
of the big days were more than 40km, which is pretty much a marathon.
My waistline is down to 39 inches (from 41) so I have made some pretty good progress there too. The belt doesn’t lie.
The key now is to persevere with the good work and really make it count. After all it’s in my interest.
HALVE MY HANDICAP
Steve Moody, editor
It’s fair to say that golf has been getting frustrating over the past month or two. I seem to be playing the same round over and over again.
It goes like this: start steadily, get off the tee on most holes but throw away a silly shot a hole on a regular basis with misjudged shots into greens, over- or under-hit chips or missed putts. The pressure of all these missed par opportunities then builds until, usually around the 12th or 14th hole, it blows up in a triple bogey or so, and that’s the end of the round score-wise.
Looking back at my figures over the past dozen or so rounds I lose three to four shots off the tee a round, which at Burghley Park, with its tight tree-lined fairways, isn’t too bad. Working on the theory that I’d like to shoot around 80 on a fairly regular basis, that gives me six or seven minor mistakes for the rest of the game.
When you’re usually in a good position off the tee as I am, that shouldn’t be beyond the realms of possibility. Judgement of distance seems to be the hardest thing. I usually hit my wedges, pitches, chips or putts exactly how I want to – it’s just they’re the wrong ones and they cost me shots all over the place.
The result is I’ve been trying to hit as many chips and pitches as possible at home in the garden, and using just three clubs to simplify the thought and physical processes.
A lesson with Mark Jackson at Burghley certainly helped to clarify it and also taught me a clever little closed faced chip which has been useful, but somehow I’ve got to find more time to practice on and around actual greens so I can turn solid strikes into putting the ball close to the hole.
So with two-thirds of the challenge gone time-wise, it’s highly unlikely I can make huge strides – and in my defence I did say early on that halving my handicap would be nigh-on impossible, and that scoring 80 was more realistic – but at the same time it doesn’t feel like a breakthrough is that far off. My long game is far more solid and I can now shape the ball in both directions.
Somehow I’ve got to unlock similar improvements in the infernal short game.
FOREMARK GARAGE
ON YOUR BIKE!
A circular route starting and finishing in Stamford
DESCRIPTION
This month’s route from Rutland Cycling’s Sally Middlemiss is a slightly shorter distance, perfect now the days are drawing in. Enjoy the quiet lanes and pretty villages, with plenty of flat sections and no big climbs. Several sections of the route have been recently resurfaced, making for a nice smooth ride. It’s a good idea to wear hi-vis clothing and use front and rear bike lights, particularly if you’re riding into the late afternoon.
Get route notes and download a GPX file for your GPS computer at https://ridewithgps.com/ routes/28367845. Enjoy the ride!
THE ROUTE
● From Scotgate, continue straight on to Casterton Rd/B1081 0.1 mi
● Turn right on to Ryhall Rd 2.1 mi
● Turn left on to Pickworth Rd 2.1 mi
● Slight right toward Holywell Rd 6.5 mi
● Turn right on to Holywell Rd 6.5 mi
● Turn left 6.6 mi
● Continue on to B1176 7.7 mi
● Turn right 8.5 mi
● Continue on to Elm Ave 10.8 mi
● Elm Ave turns right and becomes Swallow Hill 13.2 mi
● Continue on to Station Rd 13.9 mi
● Continue on to The Green 14.1 mi
● Continue on to High St 14.2 mi
● Turn right on to Obthorpe Ln 14.2 mi
● Turn right on to Wilsthorpe Ln 15.0 mi
● Turn left to stay on Wilsthorpe Ln 16.3 mi
● Turn right to stay on Wilsthorpe Ln 17.5 mi
● Turn right on to Baston Rd 17.5 mi
Breeze women’s rides
These popular women-only led rides are free to join and continue into the winter. They’re a friendly bunch, ride at a steady pace and always include a cake stop! And if you don’t own a bike, no problem – you can hire one from Rutland Cycling at a special Breeze rate, from £5.
● Turn left on to Greatford Rd 18.3 mi
● Turn right 19.0 mi
● Continue on to Greatford Rd 22.0 mi
● Turn left on to School Ln 22.4 mi
● Turn right on to Casewick Ln 22.5 mi
● Turn right on to Main Rd/A1175 22.6 mi
● At the roundabout, take the first exit on to St Paul’s St/A1175/A6121 24.4 mi
Find out more at: www. rutlandcycling.com/rides or Facebook @ BreezeBikeRides
Breeze is a British Cycling programme to get more women riding bikes.
20% OFF ONLINE FOR ALL ACTIVE READERS QUOTE: ACT18 AT CHECKOUT
grassroots rugby across Leicestershire
www.leicestershirerugbyunion.co.uk
Roundup
RUGBY PREVIEW
Teams look to rebuild as new season approaches
BY JEREMY SMITHSON BESWICK
STAMFORD TOWN’S NEW SEASON will be one of the most intriguing after their surprise relegation last year. Coach Matt Albinson explained the drop by telling me: “Lack of players was one of the problems. We had several long-term injuries together with some lifestyle changes due to family circumstances – happy arrivals – which combined into the perfect storm for us. And our training levels were also poor.”
He added: “Maybe there was also a little bit of lethargy from those who’ve been here many years. We had to pick too many people on a Saturday who hadn’t trained on the previous Tuesday or Thursday and that’s not good for team togetherness.”
Nevertheless, he is upbeat about the next few months: “For some of those players I’ve just mentioned this is likely to be their last season and they won’t want their legacy to be leaving us at this level, especially as this group has progressed from Midlands 5 to Midlands 2. We also recruited four or five exceptional players who joined just too late in the season to keep us up but are staying around, which means we’ve arguably the strongest pack we’ve had for many a year. Admittedly I wouldn’t have said this a few months ago but the relegation might be good for us – an opportunity to remould, rebrand and give some colts a blooding.”
They’ve just received planning permission for a new clubhouse and so fund-raising is about to start for the required £750,000. By the time it’s built I fully expect to see them back in Midlands 2.
Oakham, playing in the same division, survived to fight another day but also found it challenging and finished just two places off relegation.
Former club president Keith Crellin told me: “There are some very good teams in this division – as Stamford discovered – and it was a tough year for us too”.
They’d had their own injury issues, notably Philip
Gant whose hand is so badly damaged he may not play again, and the coaching line up changed unexpectedly early in the season. Bill Kingdom valiantly stepped into the breach, flying in from his job abroad every week to take training, but this year they will have ex-player Alan Meadows in the role.
Short term, Crellin doesn’t expect a dramatic improvement: “If things go well we’re capable of being a mid-table side,” but is far more bullish looking further into the future. “Our under 14s are very successful. They won the County Cup, beating undefeated Hinckley, and our under 17s will be an absolutely cracking first team in a couple of years, so the longer term is very bright.”
Staying with Midlands 2, Market Harborough had a more successful time of it and were disappointed to just miss out on promotion – “heartbreaking” is the way the club’s Richard Bowden put it to me. Nevertheless, he thinks they were the division’s most attractive side and pointed out that they are young – mostly under 25 – and expects them to do even better this time around.
They’ve put in place a new coaching structure; Bowden moving up from head coach to director of rugby with Joe Hill, formerly of Oadby Wyggs, and Chris Bale, once of South Leicester, joining to add more experience. “We aim to be promoted twice in the next five years,” Bowden told me. They’ve recruited during the break and early signs are good with “30 to 40 players at pre-season training”.
Stoneygate had a good year, club captain Cillian Brugha reckoning it: “The best season since we moved to Uppingham”. They won the President’s Cup, finished fourth in the league and continue to build a strong infrastructure and hope to regularly put out a second XV this term. “I think it’s realistic for us to win the league this year,” he said. “All our matches against the
best sides in the division were close. The league has got better and more competitive as we’ve improved too, so it would be good to excel this time.” Matt Isherwood takes over as first team coach.
Carl Walker, vice-captain of Stamford College Old Boys, had a frustrating season. Out with a crushed vertebra for the entirety, he didn’t mince his words about the campaign that he’d watched unfolding. “We had a really bad season,” he told me. “Fifteen regular players were out with injury at the start, we were down to just one side and that killed us off early doors. It became a vicious circle as players coming back went into what was a weakened XV and got injured again.”
It finished more brightly, however, with a win over local rivals Deepings. Walker hopes that momentum carries forward, adding “we’ve recruited about eight new players and there’s some quality in there”. Skipper John Hickman has an injured knee so has picked up some of the coaching duties; Haydn Johns, still only in his mid-20s, has been appointed as captain. Deepings will be their opponents on the opening day, a fixture Walker called “a relatively hard game. It was one apiece last time and, with our other near-neighbours Bourne being promoted, they’re now definitely the biggest games of our season.”
Deepings’ Phil Trotman, also vice-captain of their side, called that loss to College “one that we should have won” in what he felt was an inconsistent season. “There were some real high points and some lows,” he summed up. “Our home form was sound but we struggled for availability away, so we’ve had some hard talking in our annual review. Rugby at the level we play it (Midlands 4, the ninth tier of English rugby) is a bit of a low standard so there is a tendency to relax. We all want to have a laugh and enjoy it yet everyone needs to be committed to the team and to the greater good of the club. We should be the best side in this league but the table doesn’t lie. It wasn’t the raw ability that was lacking but commitment that was the issue so, from now on, the message is ‘if you want to play on Saturday you’re going to have to be here on Tuesday and Thursday to train’.”
A little further afield, in terms of both geography and the divisions of English rugby, up five tiers in National League 2 the season starts with a bang as our two nearest clubs at this exalted level, Leicester Lions and South Leicester, meet on the opening day. Lions have just completed building their new clubhouse and England’s World Cup winning captain Martin Johnson will there on the day to perform the official opening. Sounds like a great afternoon out to me.
■ Next month - we preview the local football scene for the upcoming season
TIGERS TALK
Steve Moody looks ahead to the new rugby season
There cannot have been many seasons Tigers fans have entered into with less hope than this one.
The general sense seems to be that qualification for Europe would be a decent result. Play-offs too, if cards fall in a fortunate way. Winning the Premiership? Well, it is the Tigers, so it is always a possibility – albeit a remote one.
Two of the better players, Matt Toomua and Tatafu Polota-Nau, are unexpectedly spending most of the autumn in Australia playing for their country, which leaves the club worryingly thin on quality resources at hooker and fly-half. They looked like great signings when they committed their future to Tigers, eschewing international ambitions. But somehow that’s changed. How did that happen?
In terms of signings, fans will wait to see whether Guy Thomson, David Denton and Will Spencer prove to be inspired picks or more of the same policy of recruitment over the past few years which has seen many fine and honest club men selected.
Obviously everybody hopes for the former, and they should add some much-needed grunt to a pack that has not been at the level of Tigers’ eights of the past. Of the
three, lock Will Spencer has the biggest boots to fill: Leicester has a proud history of formidable second rows and in recent years have had some very good players without reaching the domineering heights needed in this position.
Then there’s the style of play. Forwards coach Mark Bakewell was brought in halfway through last year and had an immediate impact, but the overall style of play is inconsistent.
At some point, the Academy has to weigh in, as it does for Exeter and Saracens. It’s been years since a junior came through and commanded a regular first team spot – Ben Youngs and Manu Tuilagi probably the last – but there does seem to be a lot of talent coming.
Hopefully Will Evans will get to play more regularly, Jordan Olowofela has trained with England, Sam Aspland-Robinson has been around the squad in pre-season, and hopefully Tom Hardwick will be the quality backup 10 Tigers may desperately need.
A rampaging pack, some luck with injuries, a couple of bolters from the Academy and, of course, getting Manu firing regularly – then it could be Tigers’ year…
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CRICKET Stamford and Harborough battle against relegation
BY JEREMY SMITHSON BESWICK
FOLLOWING A TERRIFIC PERFORMANCE to gain promotion, this season Stamford has found competing at the highest level in its history tough. The side’s in a fight against relegation but is by no means dead and buried just yet. Captain Tom Williams told me: “With six games to go, another three wins should see us safe.”
Last month’s tally was lost two, won one with two abandoned, one of those last the subject of some controversy. Playing away at Cambridge St Giles, Stamford’s innings was curtailed after a few overs as the ball variously rose off a length or trundled along the ground, the umpires eventually deeming the pitch too dangerous for play. Currently both sides have been awarded seven points but Williams has, understandably, asked the league to award the game in their favour.
The club celebrated its 70th birthday in August and when we spoke he was hoping that a victory over fellow strugglers Ufford Park that day would help the beer go down more easily. “If we do survive,” he continued, “we’ve learnt a few things to stand us in good stead for next season.” The change from 45 to 50 overs, for example, had made timing the innings surprisingly more difficult to judge, he conceded.
The story of Stamford’s year is remarkably similar to Uppingham’s, who are battling away in their first ever season in the Leicestershire Premier and also need a few wins late on to keep them safe. It was some time before they registered their first win but, with that psychological balloon being burst, they seem to have settled and now have four victories under their belt, two of which came this month. The first was against high-flying Kegworth who made only 56 batting first as Danny Dumford and Tom Hynes bagged four wickets apiece and the second was against Market Harborough two weeks later. Déjà vu all round as the visitors were again all out in the 50s – Alex Ashwin with a 5-for.
Alas, that Harborough side are propping up the division and seem doomed to go down. This was always going to be a transitional year for the club, as skipper Tom Leonard acknowledged to me as far back as March: “We’re going through a lot of changes in personnel and structure,” that he expected would pay dividends in the medium term, but he acknowledged a possible short-term hit that has indeed come to pass. “It’s been very tough, especially over the past five or six weeks,” he told me.
“On occasion we’ve had to turn to the juniors or even their dads”. One reason for that was injuries, with Leonard himself on the sidelines for some time with a broken thumb.
They’ve also lost a few players, including former captain Joe Gordon. “Everyone would like to thank Joe for all he’s done here,” Leonard continued. “He’s been with the club for 20 years and with the amount of work he’s done for the side it’s sad to see him go. We look forward to playing against him in the future.”
It’s not all doom and gloom, however, with their young All Stars and Juniors thriving and Leonard is philosophical. “I don’t think it’s the worst thing in the world for us to go down,” he said. “We’ll take stock and look forward to some more competitive cricket”. It’s no fun losing week after week so he’s grateful to all those who’ve stuck around and showed up come what may. They’ll be looking to recruit players in the close season in all departments, but particularly wicket keepers – playing in that unfamiliar position was how he’d broken his thumb.
At the other end of the table, Kibworth continue their fine run and now haven’t lost a game since early June. They sit in third place, 19 points behind the leaders, so are still in the mix with five matches to play and are also in the semi-finals of both cup competitions. Opener Matt Craven passed what the club called “a magnificent landmark” last month with 10,000 runs scored at an average of over 40, including 59 fifties and 23 centuries. Over in Division 4 East, Ketton Sports continue to sweep all before them. Zeeshan Manzoor in particular continues to shine for them with both bat and ball. I expect Rob Vitas’s side to be promoted next season as they rise to find the level merited by their undoubted talents. Their Rutland League Sunday side did at least show they aren’t infallible, suffering their second loss of the season away to Bourne. Congratulations are due to young Thom Airs, who got his first 5-for for the club in their Sunday second XI fixture against Benefield.
As mentioned earlier, Ufford Park’s Saturday side are in a relegation battle. The club’s Andrew Hinton told me they’d lost two key men; Ross Keymer suffering from a chronic condition that ends many a local cricketer’s career (paternity), whilst the equally valuable Andy Larkin has an acute case of the nuptials. However, he told me that “our hope to beat relegation was given a boost when we defended 94 against St Ives, with six wickets from Joe Corder,” and the Sunday side is faring better – “steady” was the word used – and congratulations are also due to their Vince Newsome who recently landed his maiden 50.
Lastly, special mention must be made of Courtney Kruger who scored 202 not out for Bourne seconds – the highest total we’ve reported on in six years.
GRACE NOTES
Jeremy Smithson-Beswick senses the optimism filling the air at Leicestershire CCC
Having finished bottom of Division 2 of the County Championship last year – without a single win, this season has seen a remarkable turnaround in Leicestershire’s fortunes.
Four victories and two draws had brought them to a position where a home victory over fellow contenders Kent last month would have put them within striking distance of promotion.
That game, which felt at the time as if it would define their season, was finely poised until the last afternoon. After an overcast, bowler-friendly first day the Foxes held a narrow first innings lead of 25 due to bowling heroics from Pakistan international Muhammad Abbas (6 for 48) and Ben Raine (4 for 62).
Setting the visitors 252 to win after a patchy second innings from the home side – in which all-rounder Zak Chappell had to be replaced for a concussion protocol after a blow on the helmet – the weather conditions improved markedly and with the spectators basking in sunshine on the afternoon of day three, and Abbas apparently restricted due to a stomach upset, in truth Kent never looked in trouble as they reached the total with eight wickets to spare. Afterwards a disappointed skipper Paul Horton told us: “It was one of those games that the conditions aligned nicely for the competition.
They were able to make hay in the sunshine as the wicket lost its pace.”
Losing Chappell was a big blow, especially as injuries and departures have reduced the first team squad to 14 players and Horton acknowledged: “We’ve got some tired bodies and minds out there but it’s the same for everyone. We’re not out of it yet – if we can win our remaining games we’ll be close.”
Coach Paul Nixon agreed that with five games to go they were still in with a chance, observing: “We’ll scrap and scrap and there’ll be more surprises to come, especially if we can show even more passion and more steel.
“I’m very proud of the lads to have
this from not winning a game last year confirms we’ve made a significant improvement.”
One bright spot in the game was the performance of 21-year-old Harry Dearden. Opening the batting, he’d made 74 in their second innings and Nixon liked the way he’d held himself, saying: “He looked like a senior player out there.”
There are a lot of promising young players at Grace Road and, whatever their fate this year, there’s much to be optimistic about.
Many fans will feel it’s been some time since we could say that about Leicestershire but with Wasim Khan’s careful stewardship as chief executive and the irrepressible Paul Nixon as coach, it is starting to pay dividends.
Guided
Le Pakistan international Muhammad Abbas took 6 for 48 in the game against Kent
Picture: Ed Melia
// MARKET PLACE
D.G NORMAN
EQUESTRIANISM
Elite riders in action
BY JULIA DUNGWORTH
ARENA UK, NEAR GRANTHAM hosted the 2018 Equine Sports Grassroots Championships at the beginning of August.
Qualifying riders came from all over the UK, with hundreds staying on site for the entire duration.
All ages took part in classes that covered showing, working hunter, show jumping and dressage. In the evenings they had an impressive turn-out in the fancy dress, gymkhana games and sophisticated elegance in the supreme showing classes.
For the riders to refuel and relax after a day in the saddle, there was an avenue of stores and a selection of places to eat and drink – each evening had something organised to entertain all.
As with the rest of the UK, the hot and dry conditions tested both horse and riders’ stamina.
Dodson & Horrell were on site, not only giving out samples of their new Balancer range, but offering free expert nutritional advice, fat scoring to all and giving top tips on how to survive extremes in weather.
Together with more than 170 classes, Olympic show jumping elite competitor Geoff Billington treated owners and grooms to free masterclasses.
The Olympian returned on Saturday evening, together with Grand National legend Bob Champion MBE to judge the In Hand and Ridden Concours D Elegance championships.
The former champion jockey was awarded a cheque for £500 on behalf of Arena UK, who had raised funds to support Bob Champion’s Cancer Trust – a charity that has so far raised more than £14 million to support people with cancer.
Arena UK is growing to be a nationally recognised equestrian centre and next month hosts the major Show Jumping Championships, attracting top professional riders over six days of competitions from September 17. It includes the Dodson & Horrell Six Bars and the ever popular Puissance on the Friday night, starting at 8pm.
Unlike the Horse of the Year Show or Olympia, both classes are free to watch.
For more information on the equine activities at Arena UK, visit their website www.arenauk.com.
Stamford hosts one of the world’s most prestigious equine events, The Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials, this month.
The event is celebrating its 70th anniversary with 100 entries that includes quite a lot of locals to watch out for – Richard Jones has had a much more successful run up this year including a seventh place at Bramham on Alfies Clover.
Lincoln based Emily Prangnell is one of the first timers contesting on DHI Beaunesse. Sarah Cohen will be riding the very consistent Treason who she partnered into twelfth in 2016.
Simon Grieve again has two rides in Drumbilla Metro and Douglas – he will be looking to up his placings from last year where he finished 36th and 32nd.
Also, Willa Newton will be riding Chance Remark, whom she finished fifth on in Luhmuhlen. However, she has recently broken her collar bone, but has been seen out competing at Aston Le Walls so fingers crossed that her strength is up to it!
Finally, Emilie Chandler will be riding Coopers Law, on whom she finished 14th at Pau last year.
Six previous winners of Burghley, including last year’s winner Jonelle Price from New Zealand, are also entered to run over captain Mark Philips’ course. The course is being run in reverse this year and has some surprising questions to ask the horses and riders around the 11-plus minute course.
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Open Days
Our Schools work together to provide an outstanding day and boarding education for girls and boys aged 3 to 18. We take pride in developing curiosity and a love of learning, while helping to shape well-rounded individuals who are fully equipped for the next stage in their lives.
Stamford School (Boys 11-18)
Saturday 6th October
Stamford High School (Girls 11-18)
Saturday 6th October
To book your place, visit
Stamford Junior School & Nursery School (Boys & Girls 3-11)
Saturday 13th October
Sixth Form (Boys & Girls 16-18) Wednesday 10th October
