Scotland - Aspire Magazine

Feature
Help Me
Holistically
We look at alternative
healing options
ISSUE 279
YOUR FREE COPY
Enjoy the perfect
autumn break to
Scotland
Bringing the true taste of India to Leicester, Mem-Saab, situated within
the Highcross development, presents the perfect place to celebrate special
occasions for couples, groups of friends and families alike. For more info visit
www.mem-saableics.com or turn to pages 2&3…
View this issue online at www.aspiremagazinegroup.co.uk
ASPIRE 1

Mem-Saab
Award-winning Indian Cuisine From Mem-Saab
Opening
Times
Dining: Monday to
Sunday, 11:30am until
5pm and 6pm until
11pm (10:30pm on
Sundays)
Bar: Monday to
Sunday, 11:30am until
12am
Tucked away on the edge of the £350 million
Highcross development, Mem-Saab Indian Fine
Dine & Champagne Bar provides an excellent place
to enjoy delicious, freshly prepared, traditional
Indian cuisine, wonderful champagne and
cocktails, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere,
which is ideal for couples, groups of friends and
even families.
Founded in 1996, Mem-Saab is run by Pam Kooner
and her family. Originally located on Vaughan Way,
Mem-Saab relocated in 2008 to larger premises in
a better location and has continued to thrive. Pam
told Aspire: “The old restaurant was a great location
until the swimming baths were knocked down,
and then much of the passing trade went away, so
when the opportunity to move to the new Highcross
development came about, we jumped at the chance.
These bigger premises have allowed us to open a
champagne bar, as well as offering customers more
choice when it comes to the drinks and food menus,
as well as entertainment.”
Bringing the true taste of India to Leicester, Mem-
Saab uses traditional home-cooking in the grand style
and has been for more than a decade. With its unique
combination of traditional values and contemporary
sophistication, Mem-Saab offers diners the authentic
taste of an Indian home, in an atmosphere conductive
to fine dining.
For everyday sparkle and special occasions, Mem-
Saab’s Champagne Bar and Piano Lounge are ideal
for pre and post-dinner drinks, as well as those who
want to unwind on the open terrace after a hard
day’s shopping in Highcross. The champagne list
is impressive, accommodating a large selection of
Grand Marque houses, with many styles served by
the glass.
Pam added: “We also serve the finest cocktails, served
by our wonderful barman, Bamba, who prepares an
extensive range of traditional cocktails, with a unique
twist, as well as mixing his own unique creations,
tailored to your specific requests. Customers love him.
“We also have a resident magician and hypnotist,
Magic Amit, who performs table magic on Friday
and Saturday evenings. We’re the only restaurant in
Leicester who pays for this kind of entertainment,
at no extra cost to diners. Our pianist, Graham, also
performs on Friday and Saturday evenings, as well
as on special occasions, like Valentine’s Day and
Christmas. Sometimes, Graham has a vocalist or
singing group performing with him.”
If that wasn’t enough, those looking for something
extra special can indulge in the Chef’s Tasting Menu
at The Chef’s Table, which boasts all the drama of a
live kitchen. With an exclusive view of the kitchen
in full service, The Chef’s Table is a unique dining
experience. At The Chef’s Table you can watch the
perfection and clockwork of Mem-Saab’s busy kitchen
and indulge in the melange of ingredients with the
simplicities of home style, presented wand balanced
by the Head Chef and customised to your individual
tastes. For this seven/eight-course dining experience,
all you need is an evening (approx. four hours) and
the appetite to appreciate the delicacies of Indian
cooking at its finest.
Aspire Sales Manager, Stacey Wragg, said: “I visited
Mem-Saab, located within the recent Highcross
development, on a Saturday night with my friend
and her daughter; we started the evening with
a refreshing Cosmopolitan cocktail each in the
comfortable bar area, before moving into the dining
area to enjoy a delicious chicken korma with pilau rice
and a, possibly homemade, naan bread. The customer
service was excellent and every member of staff who
dealt with us were very friendly, and they didn’t know
they were being reviewed, so they weren’t being
extra nice just to me! The portions were huge and we
couldn’t actually finish our meals, so I’d definitely say
you get good value for money. I’d recommend a visit
to Mem-Saab for couples looking to start their night
out in the city centre, but away from the hustle and
bustle.”
Mem-Saab caters for all budgets and tastes; they
serve dishes from an A La Carte menu, as well as a
lunch menu, where diners can enjoy two courses for
£7.95. There are also three different party menus to
choose from and tailor, for groups of more than eight
diners who pre-book.
Mem-Saab have won numerous awards in the last 16
years, including: Newcomer Finalist in the 2009 British
Curry Awards and Winner of Best British Newcomer in
2010, as well as Best In Midlands Finalist in 2011. They
can now add an Aspire Certificate of Recognition for
Fine Dining to their list of accolades. Pam said: “Thank
you so much, Aspire. This is wonderful. Hopefully it’s
the first of a run of awards coming our way because
we’ve been nominated in the Curry Capital awards,
which are announced at the end of October, as well
as the Best Family-run Restaurant in the Leicester
Mercury Food Awards, which will also be announced
at the end of October.”
Mem-Saab regularly work with charity events across
Leicestershire and on Friday December 7th 2012, they
have kindly agreed to cater the VIP tables at Aspire’s
Winter Wonderland Charity Auction – tickets are
available by emailing north@aspiremagazinegroup.
co.uk. Pam said: “Stacey offered us the opportunity
to get involved with this great event and we’re really
looking forward to it. We love catering for charity
events and in the past have worked with The Lord
Mayor and the High Sheriff.”
Cookery Masterclass
Lessons now
available – email
contact@mem-saableics.com
for details
Tel: 0116 2530243 | Web: www.mem-saableics.com | Email: contact@mem-saableics.com |
Like on Facebook: www.facebook.com/memsaableics
2 ASPIRE
ASPIRE 3

Front cover image courtesy of
Mem-Saab
Editor: Claire Tipton
claire@aspiremagazinegroup.co.uk
0116 2517385
Accounts: Kathy Tipton
accounts@aspiremagazinegroup.co.uk
0116 2515919
Feature Writer: Laura Hyde
editorials@aspiremagazinegroup.co.uk
0116 2517385
Graphic Designer: Lucy Crookston
design@aspiremagazinegroup.co.uk
0116 2517385
Sales Manager: Stacey Wragg
north@aspiremagazinegroup.co.uk
0116 2624867
Sales Executives: Barbara Stone, Emma Cross
Niche: Emily Davison
Distribution: Michael Tipton &
Self Select Distribution
Published by:
Spectrum Printing Services
0116 246 1717
To subscribe to Aspire Magazine call
0116 2517385
Web Design: Paul Tipton at Q Creative Design
paul@qcreativedesign.co.uk
0116 251 7298
2. Mem-Saab
4. Contents
6. A Brighter Future
8. An Alternative Christmas
Niche
9. Aspire Recommends
10. Listed Property
12. Best In The Business
13. Autumn In Scotland
14. Help Me Holistically
15. Myotonic Dystrophy
Support Group
Cont
ents
Name & Registered Office:
ASPIRE MAGAZINE
NORTHAMPTONSHIRE GROUP
3rd Floor Office, 29-35 St Nicholas Place,
Leicester LE1 4LD
Company Number: 06036102
©VisitBritain / Britain on View
Find us on Facebook: Aspire Magazine
Follow us on Twitter @aspire_magazine
4 ASPIRE
ASPIRE 5

A Brighter Future
Giving Your
Children
The Best
Start In
Life
Pitsford School Scoop Certificate of Recognition
There are few more important
moments in life than bringing
a new person into the world.
Having a baby is a momentous
occasion and one that will
change your life, and the way you
look at the world forever.
It is always difficult to trust other
people to look after your child once
you’re ready to return to work, but
there are many companies out there
with excellent reputations. The right
environment, excellent carers and
specialist equipment are all vital
qualities to look for when considering
childcare provision.
In order to reap the rewards of a
great education, it’s important to lay
the foundations of learning early on
and there is evidence to suggest that
children who attend nursery school
may see the benefits once they get to
school. A revealing study which tracked
the development of 3,000 children over
the course of seven years discovered
those with the longest exposure to
nursery education performed better
in tests at the age of seven. Children of
all social classes were found to be four
to five months ahead of their peers in
terms of education and scooped better
results in national reading, writing
and maths tests. Leading professors
from Oxford, London and Nottingham
universities also noted that children
with three years nursery education
benefitted further, by being 10 to 12
months ahead of children who were
brought up entirely at home. This
evidence is a great boost to working
parents, who can often feel guilty for
sending their child to nursery, and they
can now feel confident that their little
one has a bright future ahead of them.
Finding the right school is the next
step; it can also be one of the most
important choices you’ll ever make.
Our school days are supposed to be
the best days of our lives, so finding the
right school for your child is extremely
important.
Many schools may appear similar on
paper, so find out when open days are
occurring and make the time to visit
the schools personally. Look at how
pupils interact with each other and
how well teachers seem to know the
children. Ask yourself, is there a friendly,
welcoming and caring atmosphere, and
do you think it’s suitable for your child?
It is essential that once you have seen
and approved the school, you take your
child along. This will establish if they
like the look and feel of the place as
much as you do, after all, they’ll be the
ones spending the best years of their
life there.
Help your
child go far
with Kip
McGrath
Our qualified teachers create
individual tutoring programmes,
using proven Kip McGrath methods.
• Reading
• Comprehension
• Spelling
• English
• Maths
Call today
for a free
assessment
Northampton North
10 Brookfield, Moulton Park NN3 6WL
01604 790844
northamptonnorth@kip-mcgrath.com
www.kipmcgrath.co.uk
Open weekdays, 9am - 3pm
welcoming children aged 2 - 5
• Rural location
• Weekly Forest School sessions
• Huge outdoor play space with
vegetable garden, story-telling circle,
sand & mud pits, hill & tunnel and
much more
• Wide variety of activities in our main
hall and purpose-built play & learning
room
• Weekly gardening and cooking along
with visiting music, French and ballet
tutors
• Delicious, freshly cooked lunches
• Preschool minibus for local outings
• Weekly toddler group
• High adult to
children ratios
• Graduate-led,
highly qualified
staff
• Maximum of 24
children per session
Roots to Wings, 3 Glebe Road,
Wymondham, Melton Mowbray LE14 2AF
Tel: 01572 787334
Email: info@roots-to-wings.co.uk
www.roots-to-wings.co.uk
Situated just four miles from Northampton,
in the picturesque village of Pitsford, Pitsford
School is an independent co-educational day
school, taking pupils from the age of three
through to eighteen. Aspire are so impressed
with the facilities and quality of teaching
available for students at Pitsford School, that
we’ve awarded the School a Certificate of
Recognition for Independent School of the
Year 2012.
Previously named Northamptonshire Grammar School,
Pitsford School was founded in 1989 catering solely for
boys; girls were admitted 10 years later in 1999. A full
range of academic subjects through to GCSE, A level and
University entrance are taught. Classes are deliberately
kept small to ensure the best personal tuition and
individual attention. The curriculum draws on the best of
the grammar school traditions of the past, makes them
relevant to today’s needs, and ensures that they are
applicable to the demands of the future.
The Junior School takes children from ages three to
eleven. Conveniently sharing the same location as The
Senior School, it offers families a friendly and caring
environment where children flourish. With small classes
and high teacher to pupil ratio, children can be nurtured
and encouraged to achieve their full potential, both
socially and academically. At age 11, pupils move onto
the Senior School where a strong academic reputation
is complemented with effective pastoral support and
a wide range of extra-curricular activities. Entry to
the Senior School is selective; the School’s academic
curriculum is designed to cater for the upper 50% of the
ability range and the selection criteria is based upon this.
Pupils are expected to take 10 GCSEs before transferring
to the Sixth Form at the end of Year 11.
The Sixth Form is structured to provide a stepping stone
from the discipline of the Senior School to the more
relaxed learning of University or further education.
Although they are required to dress smartly, Sixth Form
students do not wear a uniform, and their timetable
is planned to ensure that each student begins to take
responsibility for their own time, with private study
periods built in. In this summer’s exam results, students
did exceptionally well with over 51% of results ‘A’ or ‘A*’
Grade and 80% achieved Grades ‘A*’-‘B’, with one third of
pupils achieving three ‘A’ Grades.
On hearing the news of the School’s Certificate of
Recognition, development officer, Lynn Rich, said: “It
is fantastic to be recognised as Independent School of
the Year by Aspire. At Pitsford School, we strive to stand
out from other independent schools. As a small school
we are able to cater for individual needs and talents
and ensure we get the best out of each and every pupil.
It is simply down to the dedication and hard work of
teachers, staff and pupils that we excel at what we do
and achieve such fantastic exam results every year and it
is great to have had recognition for this.”
For further information, contact
Karen Cannon on 01604 880306,
email kcannon@pitsfordschool.com,
or visit www.pitsfordschool.com
Open Day:
Saturday
October 6th
10:30am - 1pm
Situated just nine miles from Nottingham City
Centre, East Leake Academy has gone through a
great deal of change in preparation for becoming an
Academy at the start of the 2012-13 academic year.
The school is no longer a Local Authority school; it’s
an Academy within the DALP (Diverse Academies
Learning Partnership) Trust, a strong and supportive
partnership between the Tuxford Academy (a
Teaching School), National CofE Academy, Retford
Oaks Academy and East Leake Academy.
We intend to promote a more student-centred, relationshipdriven
approach to maximising student achievement, both
in and out of the classroom. Mr Graham Legg, Principal at
East Leake Academy, told Aspire: “East Leake Academy isn’t
organised like a traditional school with the Year-based pastoral
system; the DALP Trust academies all follow a Vertical Tutoring/
House system. ELA is organised into 40 tutor sets across four
different Houses: Kestrel, Eagle, Harrier and Osprey. There are
approximately four students from each year group - Years 7 to
11 - in each tutor set, with Post-16 students also assigned to
each House.
“Vertical Tutoring has reduced the average tutor set size down
to 20 students. Many have two staff as Co-tutors. This enables
all tutors to give an extremely high level of care and attention to
all of their tutees. Furthermore, as all siblings are placed within
the same House, there is an enhanced sense of belonging
and an improved home-school relationship and awareness.
Our system enhances the development of student leadership
skills, greater responsibility and independence, both during
their time here and into the future. With this highly supportive
pastoral structure, we aim to nurture outstanding learning
relationships that will maximise the level of intrinsic motivation
and self-confidence within all of our students.”
Year 11 students, Sam, Jake and Josh, told Aspire: “We were
all quite apprehensive about changing to an Academy as it is
obviously a big change, but we’re really happy. Before, we used
to socialise with just our Year Group but now everyone actually
mixes with people from the other years. This has enabled us
to socialise more and has enabled us to support other years.
The younger students are able to come to us for help, advice
and support because we’re a bit more approachable than the
teachers (an age thing!) and we’ve been where they are as
younger students.”
Fellow Year 11 students, Georgia, Abbie and Leah, added: “The
new school uniform is comfortable and makes us look smarter.
Initially, Year 11s didn’t have to wear the uniform, but because
of how good other students looked, we decided as a Year Group
that we wanted to wear the uniform too - it makes us proud to
be students of East Leake Academy and our own House and
Tutor Group.”
East Leake Academy recently held its Awards Evening for
students in Years 7 to 11. Over 200 awards were presented and
the evening was very well supported by the families and friends
of the students. Mr Legg praised the effort and achievement
of all the award winners and said that the Academy was very
proud of its students and their hard work, commitment and
support for others throughout the year. He also looked forward
to a very successful first year for East Leake Academy.
Academic Excellence at
East Leake Academy
For more information, call East Leake
Academy on 01509 852424 or visit
www.eastleake-ac.org.uk
6 ASPIRE
ASPIRE 7

An Alternative Christmas
With the peak holiday season over and with autumn
now upon us, the countdown to Christmas is officially
on! The gift sets, chocolate covered treats, and festive
decorations will soon be appearing on shop shelves
and the general atmosphere on the High Street is set
to become more festive and seasonal in the coming
weeks.
The Aspire region likes to celebrate Christmas in style; streets lined with sparkling
lights, Christmas markets, numerous Santa’s grottos, reindeers and numerous
magical Christmas pantos.
In 2008, Leicester was propelled into the top ten UK shopping destinations, thanks
to the opening of the £350 million Highcross project; however if you venture away
from the main shopping centre and down the narrow streets that surround the city,
you’ll find some delightful shopping gems.
As well as Highcross, Leicester city centre also boasts the Haymarket Shopping
Centre, which boasts a great variety of retailers such as Primark, H&M and TK Maxx
as well as several relaxing cafes.
Leicester Lanes, one of the oldest and most beautiful parts of the city, boasts a
comprehensive selection of trendy boutiques and independent shops, whilst St
Martins Square is the ideal place to find a Christmas gift for any discerning label
junkie!
Leicester also boasts a large undercover market, right at the heart of the city. Open
six days a week, Leicester Market is always a hive of activity. The large outdoor area
is packed full of fruit and vegetable stalls, as well as clothes, fabric and bric-a-brac.
It’s well worth a browse, even if it’s just to soak up the busy, friendly atmosphere,
and the 700 years of history.
Over the last few years, we’ve become more aware of the cost of Christmas. We’re
all under pressure to shower our children, partners and parents with lavish gifts and
Buy Local This
a feast fit for a king, but the reality is that splashing the cash, without considering
the eye-watering grand total, will end up costing you well into the New Year and
beyond. In fact, Moneysupermarket.com have calculated that clocking up £500 on
a credit card featuring an average APR if 18.12% may take an agonising 11 years
and eight months to pay off if only the minimum repayment of 2.5% is paid each
month. In the meantime, you’ll have paid an extra £477 in interest along the way.
It’s got to make you wonder, is it worth it?
The independent shops within the Aspire region need your money now more
than ever. With numerous large and established shopping chains going into
administration in the last few years, the future could look bleak for the independent
retailers that make the region so unique if it wasn’t for you. By choosing to shop
with local companies, you can help them to flourish, as well as keeping your hardearned
cash in the local area.
If you’re looking for a spot of pampering to prepare for the festive party season,
Aspire would like to recommend a trip to Whinefield & Jones Hair & Beauty, who
are offering the latest skin technology in the form of the no-needle Meeso-Botox,
an effective alternative to Botox injections. Aspire Sales Executive, Emma Cross,
recently visited Whinefield & Jones to see how this treatment works for herself. She
said: “I was made to feel especially welcome by everyone at Whinefield & Jones as
soon as I arrived; my therapist talked through the process of the treatment step-bystep
beforehand and I was able to lie back and relax as the treatment was performed,
thanks to relaxing music and lighting. My therapist continued to explain each step as
she performed it, which really put me at ease. The results were amazing and everyone
commented on my skin the following day at work. I would definitely recommend this
treatment for anyone; young women, and men, would benefit from this treatment
as a pick-me-up, whilst older women, and men, would see noticeable results with
monthly treatments.”
For more info on shopping in Leicester, visit
www.goleicestershire.com/shopping
For details on Christmas in Leicester, go to
www.oneleicester.com/christmas
Top Recommendation
47 Francis Street,
Leicester
LE2 2BE
Christmas
New Advanced Skin
Technologies Meeso-
Botox. The NO
NEEDLE alternative to
BOTOX INJECTION
Winfield and Jones is dedicated to
helping men and women get the most
from their appearance. We know that the
right hairstyle or beauty treatment can
make you look and feel your best.
It’s never too soon
to get going on
that family history
project you’ve been
promising yourself.
Make this your
opportunity!
Martin Mabey of
Genista Genealogy
is offering a 20%
reduction on two hours genealogical work
to get you started.
That’s £12 or £24 instead of the usual £15
or £30. This could be the ideal Christmas
present for someone in your family.
Already had a go yourself and got stuck?
Martin may be able to help, so give him a
call and discuss terms.
To make an
appointment, please call
0116 2707 749
www.winfieldandjones.co.uk
He’s researched family trees across the
Midlands, Scotland, Wales and other areas,
and has given advice about researching
overseas.
Voucher
Two-hour starter for £30
20% off this when
quoting ‘ASP279’
Tel: 01530 413602 / 01530 412410
Email: martin.mabey@btinternet.com
Showcase
Education
Queen’s Gate
On Page Two
8 ASPIRE

Education 3
Welcome to another issue of
Niche, the new mini-mag
for Aspire.
This issue we take a closer look at a collection
of the best companies Aspire has come across
over the past year in Showcase, whilst we also
recommend some of England’s best schools,
whether your son or daughter is just starting
school, or looking to move on to further
education. Finally, Martin Dalby talks us
through his long and successful career.
Enjoy!
What’s Inside...
Education
Showcase
2 5
Our school days are supposed to
be the best days of our lives, so
finding the right school for your
child is extremely important.
Choosing the right establishment
to educate your child can be a
difficult decision.
The search for a good school starts with
gathering as much information as you
can about the schools in your area from
your local authority. Every year, your local
authority produces an annual booklet
for parents, detailing schools’ application
processes and deadlines. The booklet also
states how many pupils are at each school,
plus the number of allocated spaces
each year. Reading achievement and
attainment tables, as well as the Ofsted
reports – which covers the quality of
teaching and learning, how the curriculum
is taught and the student’s personal
development – will give you an idea of
how suitable the school will be for your
child.
The benefits of an independent education
have always been up for discussion, but
with more and more parents choosing to
educate their child within an independent
environment, 671,000 children in around
2,600 independent schools in the UK
(http://www.isc.co.uk/TeachingZone_
SectorStatistics.htm), the benefits are
clearly outweighing the negatives.
There are numerous reasons for choosing
to educate your child in an independent
school, including: small classes with
individual attention, high standards
of education and examination results,
good discipline, encouragement of a
responsible attitude to school work,
development of social responsibility, and
extra-curricular activities.
The all-round education provided by
independent schools enables pupils to
achieve their full potential. Although there
is more freedom within the curriculum,
there are specialist teachers in most
subjects, so each child can excel in certain
areas of the curriculum.
The smaller class sizes seen in
independent schools benefit all the
children, no matter what their level of
intelligence is. Teachers can set work for
the quicker students, whilst having time
to explain procedures to less mature
students in a different manner so they
understand the work. As teachers will be
extremely familiar with the children and
where they are in regards to class work,
parents can be advised immediately if
there are any concerns, enabling each
child to fulfil his/her own potential, both
academically and socially.
At the end of the day, choosing the
school in which your child will spend the
best years of their life should be a joint
decision; so once you’ve decided on a
shortlist of schools, visit them with your
child. This will enable you to see how they
react to the surroundings and if they’ll be
happy there!
Aim High &
Help Your
Child Reach
Their True
Potential
Producing Great Girls,
Queen’s Gate School
Our school days are supposed to be the best days
of our lives, so finding the right environment
to support, nurture and encourage your child
is essential. Founded in 1891 by Miss Eleanor
Beatrice Wyatt in her parents’ home, Queen’s Gate
School is an independent day school for girls aged
four to eighteen-years-old, offering an excellent,
all-round education for its 400-plus girls.
In 1892, the School moved to 132 Queen's Gate, later
expanding into the adjacent houses at 131 and 133. In
May 2005, the School acquired 125/126 Queen's Gate and
refurbished it to a high standard as accommodation for the
Junior School. Now housed within five elegant Victorian
buildings, ideally situated for everything central London
has to offer, Queen’s Gate School is a very special place.
Pupils are drawn from a wide catchment area including
Notting Hill, Holland Park, Fulham, Chiswick, Chelsea,
Pimlico, Battersea and St John's Wood, ensuring the pupil
body reflects London's international diversity. Queen’s
Gate were recently awarded an Aspire Certificate of
Recognition for Excellence in Education.
Principal, Rosalynd Kamaryc, said: “Queen’s Gate School
has thrived as a school for girls since it was founded. We
provide an excellent, rounded education, offering a very
wide range of GCSE and A-Level subjects – 28 subjects are
offered at A-Level. We seek to inspire a love of learning; we
want lessons to be lively and engaging, thus encouraging
girls to develop intellectually, to see learning as an exciting
process and to have an inquisitive and creative attitude to
their work.
“Queen’s Gate is renowned for its excellent pastoral
care and commitment to extra-curricular activities. We
also achieve outstanding academic success and we are
particularly pleased this year to have taken top place in
the Telegraph’s small schools’ A Level table and also in
the University of Durham value added table. Academic
success and a caring nurturing environment do not have
to be mutually exclusive and we believe that it is the
successful combination of both that make Queen’s Gate an
exceptional School.”
Teaching methods at Queen’s Gate combine the best of
modern technology with traditional rigour at all stages;
there is great emphasis on necessary study skills, instilling
the habits that will sustain pupils throughout their time
at Queen’s Gate, and later at university or college. This is
evident in the latest exam results in both GCSE and A-Level
pupils; 75.9% of GCSE results were graded A* or A, with an
impressive 35.4% being an A* grade, whilst at A-Level, 91%
of results were graded A or A* and 33.8% were graded A*.
If you would like to learn more about Queen’s Gate,
visit the website - www.queensgate.org - or even
better, contact Registrar, Miss Janette Micklewright,
on 0207 594 4982 to arrange a visit.

Education Showcase 5
Long Field Academy
Academy Conversion
September 2012 marks a significant moment in the history of Long Field with
the school converting to an Academy. This conversion marks the start of a new
exciting era for Long Field students, staff, governors and parents. Our core
purpose as Long Field Academy is to deliver a personalised curriculum for each
and every student, to ensure they are fully challenged, in a supportive and
welcoming environment, in order to fulfil their potential.
A Cognitive Academy
Long Field is a ‘Cognitive Academy’ with students rating their weekly Cognitive
Learning lessons as some that they enjoy most. All students discover how they
learn best and have increasing opportunities as they develop throughout their
school lives to put that knowledge into practise.
Long Field Academy, Ambleside Way, Off Leicester
Road, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire LE13 0BN
Academic Success
This summer we received our second set of GSCE results and saw a 10% increase from
last year, with 86% of students gaining five good A*-C grades. We pride ourselves on
the academic progress our students make but ensure that this is achieved with the
highest standard of personal pastoral care and guidance.
Developing Leaders
Developing the leaders of tomorrow is at the heart of what we do, and student
leadership is particularly high profile at Long Field. Student Ambassadors and
Advocates are appointed in Year 11 to act as representatives of the student body.
These pivotal positions ensure that the views, opinions and visions of our students
play a significant role in how the Academy develops in the future, along with the
active Student Council. Sports Leaders, Digital Leaders and Eco-Rangers are other
groups of students who hold responsibility and share their talents and abilities with
students, staff and the wider community.
Telephone: 01664 561234
Email: ssta@longeld.leics.sch.uk
Visit our new website
www.longfieldtrust.org.uk
Our Top
Recommendations…
It’s amazing how fast the year flies
by; we’re into the last quarter of
2012 and over the last few months
we’ve discovered some of Britain’s
best companies. From local
services to national businesses,
we’re impressed with the quality
of the companies we have found
and strongly believe that they can
make a big difference to the lives
of our readers.
We understand how hard it can be to find wellestablished
companies that offer a high level of
service that’s tailored to your personal needs,
which is why we strive to bring you the best of
the best each and every week from across the
UK. It can be daunting to enlist the services of
a company for the first time, especially during
the current economic climate, but we spend a
great deal of time each and every week finding
only the best companies to recommend to our
readers.
There are many aspects that make the
companies within this feature stand out above
all others. From excellent customer service to
tailor-made guidance and advice, outstanding
products to enjoyable shopping experiences, the
businesses that we’ve found can deliver it all.
We believe that good customer service and
support, throughout the consultation period and
after you’ve taken your goods away, are essential,
whatever your business, and the companies
that we highlight offer this in abundance.
Going the extra mile for all of their customers
and promising a truly personalised experience,
the range of companies featured within all
our pages, but within this feature especially,
guarantee that the experience you have with
them will stand out from the rest. In fact, we’re
confident that you’ll be so impressed, you’ll be
eager to recommend them to your friends and
family.
Are you looking for something a little bit
different? Whether it’s goods, services or advice
you’re in need of, it can often be hard to find
what you’re looking for if it’s not readily available
on the High Street. From unique antiques to
quality care, garden features to foot care, we
like to celebrate companies that offer items and
services that are a little different to the norm and
can enhance the lives of our readers.
We always strive to support independent
businesses and specialist services because
we believe there are many advantages to
choosing these over their large, multi-national
counterparts. With an independent company
you will never be treated like just a number
because they value your custom and support.
The companies within this feature also offer
their customers the whole package: high quality
products and competitive prices, alongside
personal service, and we’ve searched high and
low, across the length and breadth of the UK to
find you these companies.

Showcase 7
Retain Your Independence With
AW Healthcare
AW Healthcare is a small company based
in the historical area of Greenwich, in
southeast London. With a wealth of
experience in the industry, AW Healthcare
is the brainchild of Alfred Wright, who has
been involved with the mobility trade since
1985.
From scooters and walking sticks to
stairlifts and bathroom hoists, there are
thousands of products specially designed to
help you through the day. AW Healthcare
provides a range of services and products,
including
• Servicing of scooters & powerchairs
from £60
• Supply of reconditioned mobility
equipment
• Supply of new mobility equipment
• Agent for Acorn Stairlifts
SKYAK
ADVENTURES
Sea kayak expeditions,
courses and guiding. All
BCU courses.
Unique sea kayaking
experiences in the worldclass
location of Skye.
Tel: 01471 820002
info@skyakadventures.com
www.skyakadventures.com
Notes From
Martin Dalby…
Martin Dalby is an experienced and knowledgeable musician
and composer. In a successful career spanning almost 50 years,
Martin has worked with numerous well-known musicians and
has even had his music performed at The Proms on four
occasions…
Martin’s Life Through The Years…
Rhondda Women’s Aid was established
by a group of women in the 1970s, who
recognised the need to set up a safe
refuge for women and children who were
the innocent victims of severe domestic
violence and abuse.
Susan Parker, Director of RWA, said:
“Those early days were difficult times;
we were literally living ‘hand-to-mouth’.
Women and children were sharing not
only a bedroom, but also actual beds. A
heart-breaking, but nonetheless common
sight would be three little heads at one
end of a double bed and three little heads
at the other end, with mums tucked up on
mattresses on the floor. Open fires were
the norm and we often had to resort to
burning shoes banked up with ‘small coal’
when money was particularly tight, just to
keep these families warm.”
In 2012, although living standards have
definitely improved domestic abuse
continues to affect women and children,
physically, emotionally, mentally and
financially. RWA continues to provide
a wide range of services to families
experiencing domestic abuse or violence,
including emergency self-contained
refuge accommodation, providing
women, with a place of safety, where,
Be Safe
with the practical and emotional support
they need to build their confidence and
self-esteem, they are able to regain control
of their lives and make informed choices, a
luxury most of them have never had.
When women and children arrive at the
refuge they often arrive with only the
clothes they stand up in so RWA provides
a welcome pack containing food, shower
gel, shampoo, conditioner, and other
toiletries, hair brushes, toothpaste and
toothbrushes, and toys. Susan added:
“We also buy underwear, joggers and t
shirts, nightwear, slippers etc. for women
and children. We would not be able to do
this without the generosity of the public.
The packs are all funded by donations
and provide an essential aid to women
and particularly children settling in and
making the refuge a ‘home from home’.”
If you want to talk to someone,
need a safe place to stay or want
legal advice and support, call
Rhondda Women’s Aid today on
01443 731445 (9am until 5:30pm)
or on 0808 8010 800 (evenings
and weekends). Alternatively, visit
www.rhonddawa.org.uk
Tel: 0208 432 2348 or
07909 113278
Email: alfred.awhealthcare.
wright923@gmail.com
St Martins
House
7 Peacock Lane, Leicester LE1 5PZ
Situated right next door to the
Cathedral in the heart of Leicester’s
historic quarter, St Martins House
isn’t your average conference centre.
Run by the Diocese of Leicester, St
Martins House is one of Leicester’s
best kept secrets – it boasts four
conference rooms, accommodating
up to 50 delegates, and an exquisite
Grand Hall, which is ideal for
wedding receptions, birthday
celebrations and corporate events of
up to 200.
For more information, or to make
a booking, please ring
0116 261 5223
or visit
www.stmartinshouse.com
Shepherd’s
Bathrooms
Superb bathroom supplies and installation
Huge range to fit any budget from £249
Extensive new showroom
Established in 1925
www.shepherdsbathrooms.com
Open Monday - Saturday
Ring us for more
information or call into
our showroom
0116 255 4351
73 Hinckley Road,
Leicester LE3 0TD
• in 1942, in Aberdeen, Martin was born
• in 1960, he won a Foundation Scholarship to the Royal College of Music in
London
• in 1963, Martin spent two years in Italy
• in 1964, whilst in Rome, he wrote Laudate Dominum, which was performed
for the first time by the pupils and staff of Aberdeen Grammar School in May
1965
• in 1965, he was appointed as a music producer to the BBC’s newly formed
Music Programme (later to be Radio 3)
• in 1971, he became the Cramb Research Fellow in Composition at the
University of Glasgow
• in 1972, he returned to the BBC as Head of Music, Scotland
• in 1991, he relinquished his role as Head of Music to pursue a more creative
role in BBC Scotland
• in 1991, he won a Sony Gold Award
• in 1993, he retired from the BBC - Martin now composes full-time
• from 1995 to 1998, Martin was Chairman of the Composers’ Guild of
Great Britain
When not composing, Martin loves…
• spending time in the outdoors - he’s a hill walker and birdwatcher
• railways and literature
• he holds a Private Pilot’s Licence
Music
Martin has written a large amount of
music, for orchestra, for chorus, for brass
and wind bands, for the Church, for
film, radio and television, many songs
and song cycles, and chamber music
ranging from duos and trios to octets
and nonets. Most of Martin’s music has
been commissioned from festivals such
as Edinburgh, Cheltenham, Cardiff,
Orkney and Peterborough, or from
orchestras and ensembles. It has been
performed widely throughout the
world, notably at such festivals as the
Warsaw Autumn and the Henry Wood
Proms in London.
E: martindalby@btinternet.com | W: www.impulse-music.co.uk/dalby
Martin Dalby, 23 Muirpark Way, Drymen, Stirlingshire G63 0DX
Certificates
In the past two years, Aspire have awarded Martin
with a Bronze Certificate of Recognition 2010,
which was followed by a Platinum Certificate of
Recognition 2011 and finally an award for Services
of Distinction for Classical Music.

Martin Dalby
Music for the organ loft, churches and choirs,
solo singers, children’s voices, brass and wind bands, film,
instrumentalists, chamber groups
and orchestras.
Dalby’s large output of compositions is
heard widely throughout the UK and abroad
and includes performances at many festivals
with four performances at The Proms.
Certificate Of Recognition For Performing Arts
Sarah Andrews
Dance Academy
Principal Sarah Andrews
A.I.S.T.D. A.M.B.A
Based in Harpenden amid the
glorious Hertfordshire Countryside.
I.S.T.D. Ballet, Tap, & Modern,
Singing & Drama Classes
Available.
If you would like to be a
performer on stage, the dream
starts here. Experience the thrill
of performing in front of a live
audience, improve body strength
and posture with dance, gain
confidence with singing & drama.
Join our award-winning
students today.
To Register
Tel: 01442 265836
Email: Roger@sadance.co.uk
www.sadance.co.uk
The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has predicted
that UK GDP would shrink by 0.4% in 2012 and has called
for more government spending on infrastructure. The BCC
said the eurozone crisis and a sharp rise in food and oil
prices posed a continuing threat to the UK economy. It has
also cut its forecast for 2013, from 1.9% to 1.2% growth.
Every issue, Aspire strives to bring you the best companies,
offering a wide range of services. Although most of these
companies offer very different products and services, they
all provide excellent customer service and great value for
money, two things Aspire is passionate about.
Many people feel that without excellent customer service,
value for money is irrelevant, but Aspire don’t feel this is the
case; we strongly believe that the two go hand-in-hand. You
wouldn’t want to buy anything, no matter how cheap, from
a rude sales assistant, same as you wouldn’t want to pay
over-the-odds for something just because the sales assistant
went out of their way for you. Excellent customer service will
always bring in more customers and repeat business, just as
bad customer service will always lose business, not just from
the person who experienced the poor service, but anyone
they then tell about their experience. It’s all about finding a
medium and we believe the companies within this feature,
and throughout the magazine, do this.
Aspire Recommends
for money and excellent customer service are the most
important factors our readers look for in a company, which is
why we work exceptionally hard to tailor our advertising to
our readership.”
If you own your own business, the advice from the British
Retail Consortium is for independent companies to create
their own distinct identity and focus on incorporating local
character. This will ensure you offer something truly unique
that other, rival companies do not and encourage customers
to use your services and goods.
Whether your business is a global conglomerate, an
international empire, a nationwide enterprise, a regional
organisation or a single-person operation, the key to
success remains the same. The most important factor for any
business is reputation, which is gained through marketing
campaigns, advertising and, most importantly, word-ofmouth
and customer recommendation. If you own your
own business and really want to attract new customers,
then your company’s reputation is likely to be the most
important factor; so make sure your employees are happy
and customer service ALWAYS happens with a smile and
you’ll enjoy a successful, and long, career!
Although the companies within this features offer different
things, the factors that lead to their success remain the
same; good customer service, reliability and professionalism
are three of the most important factors for keeping
customers happy – and happy customers means more
recommendations and more success!
Editor, Claire Tipton, says: “We believe it is important to
highlight the companies and services that really matter
to our readers, which is why we regularly celebrate those
that offer something special. We recognise that good value
The Best Around…
Make A Will
Today With
It’s never too early to make a Will, but it can be too late. Instead of leaving your loved ones
with fond memories upon your passing, dying without a Will can leave a complicated
financial mess behind, which your loved ones will be forced to sort out. By making a Will,
you can legally state who you want to inherit your assets, as well as state who you appoint
as a legal guardian of any minor children.
Scottish Music Centre
City Halls, Candleriggs,
Glasgow G1 1NQ
Martin Dalby
23 MuirparkWay, Drymen,
Stirlingshire G63 0DX
info@scottishmusiccentre.com martindalby@btinternet.com
www.impulse-music.co.uk/dalby
Aspire would like to recommend the
services of experienced Will writer, Patricia
Sanders of Right Wills, based in Wigston,
Leicestershire. Established almost eight
years ago, Right Wills caters for anyone
who wants to make their final
wishes legal and binding.
Patricia told Aspire: “I spent 15
years working with financial
services for one of the big
High Street banks, working
regularly with Estate Planning
and Probate, but when I was
made redundant, I decided
to start up my own business,
specialising in Will writing,
Lasting Powers of Attorney,
Trusts, Advance Directives and Probate.
What’s different about me is that I travel to
the customer, to see them in their home,
which is obviously an advantage to those
elderly or disabled clients, as well as those
who are unable to drive or travel.”
As well as tailor-making straight forward
Wills for couples and singles, Patricia
can also cater for clients who wish to set
up a Trust and appoint trustees. Patricia
added: “Many clients come to me with
‘complicated’ financial
situations, but they’re not
complicated for me; I have
over 20 years’ experience
dealing with a variety of
financial situations, so I’m
here to see your individual
situation logically.”
As Patricia is a member of
the Institute of Professional
Willwriters, she supplies a
copy price list to you when you make the
appointment. There are optional extras but
no hidden costs. Covering Leicestershire
and north Northamptonshire, Patricia
travels to YOU at a time to suit YOU.
A member of the Institute of Professional Willwriters.
This firm is compliant with the IPW Code of Practice.
Tel: 0116 2811311 | Web: www.rightwills.co.uk
ASPIRE 9

Listed Property
Home
Sweet
Home
It’s the British dream to own your own home. According to
figures from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), completed
property sales in the first half of the year were 11% up on the
same period in 2011 with sales rising by 7,000 in June to 83,000,
taking the total across the UK for the first six months of the year
to 431,000. A contributing factor to the increase in sales has
been credited to the reintroduction of stamp duty for first-time
buyers on homes worth up to £250,000, which came into effect
on 24th March.
If you’re looking to increase the value of your property in this tough times, it’s
important to make the most of what you have, whether that’s a new build,
character cottage or 1950’s semi.
Living with a historical character has its particular consequences and
responsibilities: installing maintenance-free uPVC windows isn't an option in a
Listed building, for instance, and your windows are timber-framed they'll require
regular care and attention. Similarly, repairing traditional lime mortars with modern
cement pointing or rendering may damage your building's brickwork, while adding
a damp-proof course needs particular care; and where your duty to keep the
building in good repair extends to maintenance of its important features or historic
fabric - such as interior panelling or roofing timbers - you may have to seek Listed
Building Consent before making any changes.
In simple terms, the listing covers the whole of a building, both interior and
exterior. This includes any object or structure within the curtilage which is not fixed
to the building but which forms part of the land and has done so since before 1st
July 1948. This would include for example, boundary walls, outbuildings (pre-1948),
cobbles in a courtyard or any signs attached to the building.
The Listed Property Owner's Club is able to advise on all aspects of Listed Buildings
from maintenance and contractors advice, to VAT savings and planning problems.
They are also able to help with insurance and selling Listed buildings. For more
information, please visit www.lpoc.co.uk
An easier living option, without losing the character and history, is to buy a period
or traditional house. These are perfect for growing families and that homely
feel can easily be achieved. Restoring original features, such as fireplaces and
tiled floors, will create that period feel to your home, as well as helping future
generations remember and value the past. Many people say ‘they don’t make them
like they used to’ so, by restoring the original features within your home, you’ll be
adding value as well as quality to your property.
Another way to achieve a homely, lived-in feel is to invest in some antique furniture.
Furniture plays a big part in creating the right atmosphere and feel to any home,
so if you’re going for the ‘period look’ make sure you invest in some furniture that
complements this. Antique furniture can emphasise the character of your home,
so when shopping for furniture, avoid mass manufactured tat. Not only is antique
furniture of a higher quality than today’s substandard furnishings, but it will also
increase in value the longer you own it.
With the cold weather of autumn/winter just around the corner, now’s the time to
cosy up your home, whether that’s a new build, character cottage or 1950’s semi;
focus on bedrooms and living rooms. You can do this by adding sumptuous throws,
cosy hot-water bottles and indoor games/activities to keep the whole family warm,
cosy and entertained throughout the winter. Don’t forget to invest in new draught
excluders, soft rugs (especially if you have hard wood floors) and even thicker
curtains and blinds to keep the cold out and the warmth in.
To avoid unnecessary expense and stress this winter, Aspire recommend having
your boiler and heating system serviced by a Gas Safe Registered professional,
cleaning out your gutters, inspecting your roof and chimney for missing/cracked
tiles and sealing draughts in windows and doors (a much cheaper option if you
can’t afford to replace windows and doors).
Another essential pre-winter task is to get your fireplace ready. Again, it’s best to
call in the professionals to cap the top of your chimney to keep out rodents and
birds, sweep the chimney to rid it of soot and creosote and inspect the fireplace
damper for proper opening and closing. The only thing you really need to do once
you’ve called in the professionals is to buy or chop firewood, keeping it dry and
away from the exterior of your home.
The Antiques
Warehouse
Well-established and highly
regarded, the centre has a constantly
changing array of beautifully
presented merchandise. The displays
include a wide range of antiques, fine
and country furniture, collectables
and garden artefacts, all aesthetically
set in two stunning Elizabethan tithe
barns within an idyllic farm location.
COROMANDEL
CREWEL
Hand-embroidered
crewel fabric designed
for English homes
Give your staircase
a face lift!
Brighten up
your rooms
Before
After
35 years’ experience of all
types of staircase problems.
Irthlingborough, the home of
Headland
Carpet & Rugs
Our family company has
been well-established for
over 37 years and we pride
ourselves on quality, service
and value.
Open six days a week
Mon - Fri 8:30am - 5:30pm
Saturday 9am - 5pm
All types of joinery
undertaken.
Hanging of news.
Badshot Farm, St. George's Road,
Runfold, Farnham, Surrey GU9 9HR
Tel: 01252 317590
Email: prjb01@globalnet.co.uk
0118 979 6222
www.coromandel.co.uk
Call GB joinery for a free
home visit and quote
Tel: 0116 224 3510
Mob: 07754 840046
63 Station Road,
Irthlingborough NN9 5QE
Tel: 01933 652333
Email: sales@headlandcarpets.co.uk
www.headlandcarpets.co.uk
10 ASPIRE
ASPIRE 11

Best In The Business
Keeping
It Local...
We all feel a sense of pride about our
home city, town or village; whether it’s
the local football club we support, our
local produce or the unique character
that these familiar places boast, there
are many reasons why we smile when
we think of home.
Ensuring that this all important local
character survives and thrives is essential,
but sadly over the last few years increasing
numbers of people have been swapping
shopping locally for buying online bargains.
With rising costs of living, it’s not surprising
we’re being as careful with our cash as we
can, but the impact this has on our muchloved
local communities is massive. You only
have to take a look at the number of vacant
shop units in every town and city to see that
losing our loyalty can have a terrible effect on
local, independent businesses.
Over the last few years we’ve gone from being
a nation of shoppers to a nation of savers, as
we avoid the High Street in favour of hanging
on to our hard earned cash. This has dealt a
devastating blow to our independent, local
businesses, who have closed at an alarming
rate, particularly in smaller market towns.
We all know that many of the best bargains
can be found on the Internet; without
expensive overheads to pay, companies who
trade on the World Wide Web can afford to
offer goods at cheaper prices than those
in the real shops on our High Streets. With
less money in our pockets as a result of pay
freezes and shorter working weeks, it’s no
wonder we’re seeking ways to save money,
but the reality is that the shops that add
character and charm to our town centre
streets may not be here for long.
There are many benefits to be had from
shopping locally and choosing independent
shops, rather than their multinational
counterparts:
• Simply by choosing to shop or employ the
services of local companies, you can help
them to flourish. You may find there are also
added benefits to choosing local, including
receiving a more personalised service that
may be tailored to your needs.
• Spending your money in local shops
keeps your money in the local economy,
resulting in more jobs being created locally
and more funding for local services being
raised through tax revenue. Supporting
local businesses also aids community
development.
• Locally produced goods are much kinder
on the environment as they require less
transportation, meaning your carbon
footprint will be lower for selecting local over
products from further afield. Also, because
you don’t have to travel far to shop you’ll
be releasing less carbon dioxide into the
atmosphere.
We all feel a sense of pride about our home city,
town or village, which is why it’s so important
we help them survive these hard economic
times.
Serenity
An Autumn Adventure
In Scotland
©VisitBritain / Britain on View
15% DISCOUNT ON
ANY BOOKING WITH
THIS ADVERT!
Falls of Lora Hotel Connel Ferry, Oban PA37 1PB
Oban, 5 miles, only 2½ - 3 hours drive northwest of Glasgow/Edinburgh
Overlooking Loch Etivc, this fine, owner-run Victorian hotel with a modern extension offers a warm welcome, good
food, service and comfort; 30 bedrooms from luxury to inexpensive family rooms (free accommodation for children
sharing with 2 adults). Relax in the lochside garden across the road or the super cocktail bar with open log fire
and over 100 brands of whisky to tempt you. The attractive and comfortable bistro serves evening meals with an
extensive and varied menu, featuring local produce.
Tel: 01631 710483 Fax: 01631 710694
Email: enquiries@fallsoflora.com Web: www.fallsoflora.com
A country of staggering beauty,
dramatic landscapes and
fascinating sites, Scotland’s
dramatic landscape makes it a
haven for lovers of the outdoors.
From imposing mountains to
vast lochs, it’s got everything
you need to enjoy adventurous
or relaxing outdoors pursuits.
It might not be the first place you think
of for an autumn escape, but Scotland
is actually a good autumn holiday
destination, thanks to the outdoor
playground this small country boasts.
As a riot of colour spreads across this
tartan nation with resplendent reds,
glorious golds, and beautiful browns
replacing the glorious greens of
summer, Scotland offers the outdoor
enthusiasts a whole new, aesthetically
different landscape to explore and
enjoy. It’s not just the woodlands, but
also the moors and fields that offer
something different come autumn.
Great places to see this riot of colour
include Edinburgh's Royal Botanic
Gardens, the moorland of the Pentland
Hills, the valley of the River Dee, and
the Highland town of Aviemore, which
is a year-round destination set amid
wonderful scenery.
Autumn In Scotland
Boasting some of the most remarkable
trees and woodlands anywhere in
Europe, Perthshire is known as ‘Big Tree
Country’; here you can follow Scotland’s
leafy country roads to explore remnants
of Scotland's ancient wildwood.
Returning to Faskally Wood from 5th
to the 27th October, The Enchanted
Forest promises 17 nights of music
and entertainment, as well as the
opportunity to witness the colour
of autumn in all its glory. In the ‘Year
of Creative Scotland’, Perthshire Big
Tree Country’s multi-award winning
show fuses the creative talents of
Simon Wilkinson, RJ McConnell
and Dalziel + Scullion to create an
outdoor experience that will set your
imagination alight. The Enchanted
Forest is renowned to be Scotland's
premier sound and light experience
and attracted over 25,000 visitors in
2011. The event, which celebrates its
10th Anniversary in 2012, swept the
board at a number of prestigious award
ceremonies in 2011, beating off stiff
competition from some of Scotland’s
finest events. For more information,
please visit www.enchantedforest.org.uk
For more information on visiting
Scotland this autumn, please visit
www.visitscoitland.com or
www.autumnbreaksscotland.co.uk
Songs for special occasions
Soprano and mezzo soprano
From well-loved opera to stylish jazz standards, vintage
swing to classic Motown and timeless pop, Serenity
can provide a bespoke programme of music to make
your wedding day unique.
For a friendly, professional and competitively priced
service, contact us today!
Tel: 07908 939235
Email: gillhawkes@hotmail.com
When visiting Aviemore and
looking for Bed and Breakfast
accommodation, look no
further for that Highland
hospitality and friendly
welcome here at Cairngorm
Guest House.
Cairngorm House is a 12
bedroom guest house located
in the village of Aviemore
on the main road, with all
the amenities - bars and
restaurants, rail and bus links - a
5 to 10-minute walk away.
Ample private parking and
extensive grounds in which to
relax.
Main Street, Aviemore,
Highland PH22 1RP
Tel: 01479 810 630
Email:
enquiries@cairngormguesthouse.com
www.cairngormguesthouse.com
Old Manor Bed and
Breakfast and Cottages
Near Carnoustie on the
east coast of Scotland.
Five luxurious suites and an
exclusive detached private cottage.
Located within a five-minute
drive of world-famous Carnoustie
Championship Golf Course, this
18th Century mansion house is
set within its own walled gardens,
overlooking the River Tay and St
Andrews Bay. Individually decorated
en-suite rooms offer a relaxing
atmosphere complementing quality
accommodation, food and service.
Ideal base to enjoy Carnoustie
Country Golf.
Tel: 01241 854804
Email: enquiries@oldmanorcarnoustie.com
www.oldmanorcarnoustie.com
Shepherd’s Croft
Shepherd’s Croft, near Torphins and Sauchen, is situated in a beautiful rural
setting, about half an hour’s drive from Aberdeen. It is a typical Aberdeenshire
granite cottage with a slate roof and fenced garden. It is on one third of an acre
and is completely surrounded by farmland.
Accommodation comprises three bedrooms, accommodating up to six people. It
is fully equipped and is available throughout the year for short stays (minimum
three days) to a week or longer.
Shepherd’s Croft is within easy reach of Aberdeen and the east coast and is
between The Dee and Don Rivers. It is also in the vicinity of Alford, Inverurie,
Banchory and only half an hour from Dyce Airport in Aberdeen. Walking, hiking,
cycling, golfing, fishing and many tourist attractions are available in the area.
For further details please email hanfordnsm@aol.com
or telephone 01258 861289
12 ASPIRE
ASPIRE 13

Help Me Holistically
Live A Stressfree
Life
Our lives are becoming more and more
stressful. According to the mental
health charity, Mind, more people than
ever are phoning in sick or quitting
their jobs due to unmanageable
levels of workplace stress; excessive
workloads and bullying have been
blamed for the rise.
Talking to a counsellor is a traditional way
of reducing your stress levels, dealing
with any issues you may have or even
improving your mood. Despite being a
social taboo that has a certain stigma
attached, seeing a counsellor is not
something you should feel ashamed of.
However, there are a number of holistic
therapies that can help you with your
stress, as well as the symptoms of stress.
Meditation helps clear your mind, making
you calmer and more focused. A simple
10 to 15-minute breathing meditation can
help you to overcome your stress and find
some inner peace.
A Homeopath considers a patient's
physical and psychological state and life
Lyn Redman
LCH RSHom
Do you suffer from headaches or
migraines? Perhaps you have problems
sleeping. Is stress affecting your life? Do
you struggle with low energy levels?
Have you “never been well since” a
particular illness or incident? Do you
suffer with a recurrent illness or injury?
If you are struggling with any health
issues then pick up the phone. I would
be happy to talk to you.
I am a Registered Homeopath with 19
years experience, working from three
locations in Northamptonshire.
history before tailoring a remedy based
on the totality of symptoms as well as
personal traits.
Reiki’s natural healing energy works on
every level, not just the physical, and
promotes the body’s regenerative selfhealing
ability. Through the use of this
technique, practitioners believe that they
are transferring universal energy in the
form of ki through the palms, which allows
for self-healing and a state of equilibrium.
Reiki is a deep fully relaxing and blissful
treatment that not only heals but cleanses
and purifies.
Reflexology involves a method of
treatment using massage to reflex areas
found in the feet and the hands. There
are reflex areas corresponding to all the
parts of the body within the feet and these
areas are arranged in such a way that they
form a map of the body, with the right
foot corresponding to the right side of
the body and the left foot corresponding
to the left side of the body. By having
the whole body represented in the feet,
Reflexology offers a means of treating the
body as a whole.
All sorts of people come to Relate
and find we help them to understand
what’s going on in their relationships
so they can decide if they want to make
changes. It can be really helpful to talk to
someone neutral and if you’re looking at
our advert today, it may be that you’ve
taken the first step towards changing
things.
Counselling Northampton
Life can be challenging for many reasons,
for example, we become depressed, overly
anxious, sad, angry or feel desperately
alone. Facing such powerful feelings can
seem daunting and we may instinctively
know we need help, but sometimes friends
and family are just not able to give us
the support we need. As a professional
counsellor I can offer you a nonjudgemental
and safe place where you
can explore your problems and learn how
to make the decisions and changes that
you need to, in order to lead a happier and
more fulfilling life.
Hypnotherapy is another technique that
I use either as a stand alone treatment or
in combination with counselling. It is a
very helpful way in which to find the root
cause of a problem that may be buried
deep within your subconscious mind. The
‘hypnotic trance’ is a totally natural process
for the body to enter into and although
you will be deeply relaxed, your ‘moral
compass’ will remain intact, ensuring
personal control at all times.
Jane Wilson BA (Hons) Ad.Dip.CP, Dip Hyp (LHS), MCS (Acc.)
Website: www.counselling-northampton.co.uk
Email: jane@counselling-northampton.co.uk
Tel: 01604 760996 | Mobile: 07881 725536
We offer many holistic therapies including massage, reflexology, Reiki,
ear candling and more, all based in Leicester. Here you will find plenty
of information regarding our holistic therapies and how they can
benefit you.
All our holistic therapies are both Salon (Leicester) or Mobile based.
Our therapists are fully qualified and insured with years of experience
at hand to provide a relaxing experience. Browse the categories on
our website for the massage, Reiki and other therapies that we have
available for you.
The Salon is ideally situated close to Oadby town centre, in
Leicester, with ample free car parking. We have four rooms in use
for complementary therapies. Clients are invited to relax with a
complementary hot or cold drink after their holistic therapy.
Contact us on 0116 2867172
www.leicesterholistictherapies.co.uk
The Myotonic Dystrophy Support Group (MDSG) is
a registered charity, founded by Margaret Bowler in
1989, dedicated to offering the hand of friendship and
support to all those affected by Myotonic Dystrophy,
just one of the many conditions that can affect
the muscles. Totally run by volunteers, they have a
central Helpline and a network of regional contacts
throughout the United Kingdom, as well as extensive
links abroad. Their mission is ‘to offer assistance,
support and information to those people affected by
Myotonic Dystrophy, their carers’ and families’.
The exact cause of Myotonic Dystrophy is unknown,
however the genetic change responsible has been
identified. The genetic change (mutation) that causes
Myotonic Dystrophy is in the DMPK gene found on
chromosome 19. At one end of the gene is an area where
three of the building blocks of DNA, the genetic material,
CTG are repeated. An unaffected individual will have 5-35
CTG repeats but in an individual with Myotonic Dystrophy
the repeat is unstable and expands. The extent of the
expansion ranges from 50 in a mildly affected individual
to several thousands in a severely affected individual.
It is important to remember that Myotonic Dystrophy is
a highly variable condition so it is difficult to predict how
one individual will be affected. The range of symptoms
and severity of symptoms both vary enormously. Age at
onset when the condition first appears ranges from birth
to old age. Although the disease is highly variable it can
be broadly grouped into four categories:
1. Minimal - Individuals develop symptoms late in life.
Supporting Those With,
& Those Affected By,
Myotonic Dystrophy
Cataracts are often the only symptom or there may also
be mild muscle involvement.
2. Classical or adult onset - This begins in adult life and is
characterised by muscle stiffness and slowly progressive
muscle weakness. Other systems can be involved in
varying degrees.
3. Childhood onset - This begins during childhood, but
with no problems at birth. Like adult onset it can cause
muscle weakness and stiffness, but sometimes it can also
cause learning difficulties, glue ear and eye problems.
4. Congenital Myotonic Dystrophy - This is the most
marked form of the condition and is present from birth.
Babies with this can be quite ill, with breathing and
swallowing difficulties around the time of birth. Children
with it have fewer problems with muscle weakness than
adults, but they can often have problems with learning
difficulties, glue ear and eyes.
Myotonic Dystrophy can also cause:
• Muscle Weakness
• Myotonia - difficulty in relaxing a muscle after it has
been contracted
• Heart Problems
• Chest and Breathing Problems
• Tiredness and Sleepiness
• Digestive Problems
• Eye Problems, such as cataracts
• Speech and Jaw Problems
• Problems with Thinking And Planning
• Male Infertility
• Diabetes
At present, there is no cure for Myotonic Dystrophy
Myotonic Dystrophy Support Group
but this may change as a result of rapid progress in our
understanding of how the disorder is caused.
To achieve their aim of improving the quality of life for
families and individuals affected by Myotonic Dystrophy,
you can help MDSG in various ways:
• Become a member
For a nominal annual subscription of £15 per family,
you can show your willingness to share in the Group’s
concerns. You will receive a regular Newsletter and
information about the latest activities, as well as discounts
on attendance at the Group’s events and products. A
membership form can be downloaded from the website.
• Donate
You can give money to The Myotonic Dystrophy Support
Group, either for its general purposes or, if you wish, to
help with sponsorship of medical research. You can now
donate by text message via Just Giving; just text MDSG02
(space) + Amount to 70070
• Offer Practical Help
By becoming (with appropriate training and support) a
regional contact family or by participating in regional
events as organised from time to time or assisting at the
Annual Conference (held in April or May each year).
• Raise Funds
The charity’s supporters have found many ways to raise
money, from sponsored runs/walks/cycling/swims etc. to
selling items and donating the profits to the charity. Any
new ideas are always welcome! Whatever you choose to
do, please tell MDSG about it, and send them a report
of how your effort went, preferably with a photograph
that could be published on the website as well as in the
newsletter.
You can contact me on
07595 600021 or email
lynredman.hom@btinternet.com
Quote ASP for £10 discount
83 Aylestone Road,
Leicester LE2 7LL
Tel: 0116 254 3011
Email: info@relateleics.org
www.relateleicestershire.org.uk
Registered Charity No. 1103070
We are a member of the Federation of Holistic Therapists.
Helpline: 0115 9870080
Website: www.myotonicdystrophysupportgroup.org
Registered Charity No: 1134499
14 ASPIRE
ASPIRE 15

Verve Life Enderby currently
has two vacancies.
For more information,
please call 0116 2752617 or
visit www.vervelife.co.uk
Verve Life Enderby:
Giving Children
& Young People
A Chance
Around two per cent of the UK population have learning difficulties but
there is still much misunderstanding amongst the general population
surrounding children and adults with learning difficulties. The term
refers to a group of disorders that affect a broad range of academic and
functional skills, including the ability to speak, listen, read, write, spell,
reason and organise information. If your child has learning difficulties,
specialist schools and residential homes, like Verve Life Enderby, not only
provide the very best care, but also enable your child to reach their full
potential in comfortable and safe surroundings.
Founded by David Powell in 2001, Verve Life Ltd is an independent company
that provides safe, caring residential services for children and young people with
learning difficulties. Verve Life owns adult homes in London, as well as two children’s
homes in the East Midlands: one in Coventry, Warwickshire and another in Enderby,
Leicestershire.
Caring for children from 12-years-old to 18-years-old, Verve Life in Enderby caters for
a maximum of four children with learning disabilities and/or autism. The home offers
long-term, short-term or respite care and support 24-hours a day, seven days a week,
365 days a year.
with the care workers as if they were family, it’s great to see.
“Residents get to pick the décor and theme of their bedroom and care workers use a
reward system to aid development and encourage independence. Verve Life Enderby
have been helping children and young adults with learning difficulties for many years
and have had all manner of success, ranging from residents moving back with their
family to moving onto other residential homes as they get older.”
Verve Life Enderby is staffed and equipped to provide social and living support to
those who have moderate to severe learning difficulties. With 1:1 staff to resident
ratio, Verve Life provides an environment in which your child can grow and develop.
Peter added: “Verve Life Enderby benefits from some excellent, knowledgeable and
qualified staff who provide good quality care. We believe children and young people
thrive in small units like ours, operated in a flexible, caring and homely way that larger
institutions are unable to. This therefore enables Social Workers to place young people
in an environment that is most likely to meet their individual needs and circumstances
often with a higher staff to child ratio. Many of our residents come to us via referrals
from Social Services.”
This four bedroomed, 19th Century refurbished property is located in the quiet and
picturesque village of Enderby in Leicestershire, close to Fosse Park shopping centre
and excellent local leisure facilities including sports halls and swimming pools. All
four bedrooms (on the first floor) allow adequate space for private activities and the
storage of personal possessions and each resident has a lockable storage chest for
treasured items.
Outside there is a large brick barn, attached to the house and accessible via the
back door, which offers ample space for outdoor games in inclement weather and
vocational activities. A sensory garden is in the process of being constructed to
provide an outdoor space to encourage and aid development. The garden offers the
space for games and other leisure activities and there is a greenhouse which can be
used, under supervision, by those interested in cultivating plants.
Verve Life Enderby registered manager, Peter Harrhy, said: “As well as activities onsite,
there’s provision to take residents out to enjoy off site activities, such as swimming
and bowling. We’ve just spent the last week doing different daily activities, such as
laser quest and go karting, with one company, which our residents have loved. We’re
in a great location here, with so much within easy reach, from leisure activities to SEN
schools – the local area is well provided.”
Aspire Sales manager, Stacey Wragg, recently visited Verve Life Enderby to see
for herself exactly what this residential home offers. She said: “Verve Life Enderby
isn’t your average residential home; it’s more like a family house. Walking in, the
atmosphere is very warm, welcoming and homely. The two current residents interact