Uk women autumn 2015 by WomenUK

AUTUMN 2015

Feature:

MERYL STREEP

The down to earth star is still creating magic FASHION Do you prefer it Fairtrade? MAKING LOVE SAFELY What are your contraceptive options? BEAUTY The sheer genius of contouring make up HEALTH Why not switch to cycling to work for health benefits galore?

SOUTH

www.captainsclubhotel.com

50.7300째 N, 1.7800째 W Set sail for indulgence

FAIRTRADE FASHION Look good. feel good

FAIRYTALE ADVENTURES Explore Venetian waterways

NIPPING OUT The Fiat delivers

FASHION 70's style

74 CONTRACEPTIVE CHOICES What's right for you?

33 LUSH INTERIORS With coastal inspiration

CUISINE AT SEA Celebrity chefs giving the orders

WELCOME TO

AUTUMN 2015

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: Everett Collection / Shutterstock.com

INTRODUCTION

WHAT’S INSIDE FEATURE: Meryl Streep always a star and she’s still got it

Welcome to UK Women Magazine South 6

FASHION: It’s always the right time for a bit of '70s styling'

Fairtrade fashion – the way forward?

BEAUTY: The secrets behind contouring make up

Would you try the lunch time face lift?

HEALTH: The UK Women Guide to female contraception

Conflicting advice on diets leads us to a conundrum

FOOD: Refine your culinary skills out on the high seas!

FITNESS: Have you considered all the benefits of cycling to work? 46 CHARITY: The NSPCC fighting for the rights of all children in the UK? 48 HOLIDAYS: Camping for all seasons

DEBATE: Do older mothers make better mothers?

BUSINESS: What are the options for financing your business?

FAMILY: Encourage your kids to get the juicing habit

INSPIRATIONAL WOMAN: Meet Lorraine Parry

TRAVEL: Venture to Venice for culture, stunning design and intrigue

CULTURE: Take a trip to the Tate

CAR REVIEW: The fabulous Fiat

DID YOU KNOW: Snippets and updates from around the region

Welcome to autumn! Well after that slightly disappointing UK summer (weather-wise) we enter autumn with hope that it will bring the richness and diversity of coloured leaves, dewy grass and crisp freshness to the air that offers us that warm and familiar embrace of seasonal variation! September sees the launch of the brand new UK Women interactive online portal www.womenuk.co.uk – up-to-date and inspiring content can be found online every day. We’ve made a few changes and freshened things up – because as the saying goes 'a change is as good as a rest'. Our interactive online portal will be brimming full of enthusiasm, reviews, news, stories, interviews, competitions and more. Make sure you tune into our brand new buzzing portal for your entertainment, delectation and delight! Launching at the end of September 2015. See you there! Carole & Felicity Partners, NFC Publishing Ltd

Meryl Streep stars in

Ricki & The Flash One of the most talented actresses of her generation Meryl Streep is also a down to earth girl at heart

Viva Press 2015 Words Jan Janssen Photo JStone l Shutterstock.com

She's become a Hollywood legend for playing great women, mastering accents, and generally making her mark as the greatest actress on earth. But now it seems that Meryl Streep is enjoying a second life as a musical performer. Having first sang in films like Postcards From the Edge and Ironweed, Streep again wowed critics and audiences alike with her singing in 2008's hit musical, Mamma Mia! Earlier this year, she displayed her vocal agility in Into the Woods where she pushed her voice "beyond all my expectations." Now she's playing a hard-rocking singer/guitarist in 'Ricki and the Flash', a feel-good comedy directed by Oscarwinning filmmaker Jonathan Demme. Streep stars as Ricki, a gifted musician who neglected her family for her dream of rock-and-roll stardom and returns home to attempt a belated reconciliation with her family. Streep's real-life daughter Mamie Gummer plays Ricki's daughter Julie while Kevin Kline plays Pete, Ricki's long suffering ex-husband. Real-life rocker Rick Springfield and former Gossip Girl player Sebastian Stan also co-star. "This film was so much fun to make and I was so happy to work again with my former screen husband, Kevin Kline (who co-starred with Streep in Sophie's Choice - ED)," Streep says. "Ricki is an old-school rocker who sings in bars and belts out songs of famous bands. I spent six months working on my guitar technique and I had such a great time doing covers of Bruce Springsteen and Tom Petty hits."

Q: MERYL, YOUR SINGING CAREER SEEMS ASSURED WITH FILMS LIKE INTO THE WOODS AND THE UPCOMING RICKI AND THE FLASH? STREEP: (Laughs) I'm not so sure. But I'm trying hard to hold my own. It's funny how things have worked out this way because my mother had ambitions of being a lounge singer and my father composed music and played the piano. I had a great singing teacher, Betsy Parrish in graduate school (Yale School of Drama - ED) and that's where I understood a lot about how profoundly your emotions connect to your breathing and to music.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Being with my husband and my children always brought me the greatest joy and happiness in life. I love acting, of course, but I had already achieved a lot of success by the time my children were growing up that I didn't have the urgency I had to prove myself. I was also very exhausted by the grind of studio meetings and the pressure to keep finding the best films. It left me feeling miserable at timesâ&#x20AC;?

Now 65, Meryl Streep is in the middle of a career renaissance that began with her Oscar-nominated performance in The Devil Wears Prada (2006) and continued with films like Julie and Julia (2009), The Iron Lady (2011), which earned Streep her third Academy Award, and 2013's August: Osage County.

Streep and her sculptor husband Donald Gummer live in the Tribeca area of New York. Two of their four children are actively pursuing acting careers: daughter Mamie Gummer, 31, (Side Effects) and Grace Gummer, 29, (Margin Call, Frances Ha.) At the April Women in the World Summit in New York, Streep had the following observation about how women have been historically short-changed in literature and film: "From the time we're little girls we read all of literature, you know, all of history. It's really about boys, most of it. But I can feel more like Peter Pan than Tinkerbell.... I wanted to be Tom Sawyer, not Becky."

She was a huge inspiration to me and enabled me to appreciate that singing and acting are very similar in that singing makes you reach into your deepest feelings. Singing is an extension of everything that you do when you're acting. Q: YOU ALSO GET TO WORK WITH YOUR DAUGHTER MAMIE IN RICKI AND THE FLASH? STREEP: That's such a delight for me. I'm so proud of Mamie and of Grace who were willing to follow in their mother's profession despite all the pressure and attention that comes with being Meryl Streep's daughters. They're very strong-willed and determined young women. I only want them to be happy in life and I'm very supportive of their work because they made their decision knowing that they would always have to deal with that added burden.

Q: ALTHOUGH YOU'VE MADE YOUR MARK IN THE HISTORY OF CINEMA FOR PLAYING GREAT WOMEN AND HISTORICAL FIGURES, YOU CHANGED GEARS LATER IN YOUR CAREER AND STARTED DOING COMEDIES. AND LATELY YOU'VE BEEN DOING MORE MUSICAL AND LIGHTER ROLES? STREEP: Doing serious drama was something that grew out of the fact that when I graduated from drama school, there were a lot of very good, very serious films being made and those were the best roles that were available or were being offered to me. I never did those kinds of serious roles in drama school but after I played in The Deer Hunter and Sophie's Choice I was locked into playing very serious women and I never had a chance to do any comedies. I didn't have a choice. But later on when I was raising my children I became tired of only playing certain kinds of very dramatic roles and I wanted to play in lighter kinds of films. Now I'm simply amazed that

I've been able to find so much work and play many different kinds of characters at an age when this industry tends to forget about women. I'm thrilled! Q: YOU'VE EARNED EVERY HONOUR AND ACCOLADE THAT ANY ACTOR COULD EVER HOPE TO WIN IN THE FILM BUSINESS. DO YOU EVER FEEL THAT YOU HAD TO SACRIFICE TOO MUCH OF YOUR FAMILY TIME FOR THE SAKE OF MAINTAINING SUCH A LEGENDARY CAREER? STREEP: I think there's a bias against women when it comes to discussing the idea of making sacrifices. That question doesn't arise when it comes to men - a man has always been seen as someone who works hard and has a full-time occupation. I think women should have the same opportunity and not have any stigma attached to them if they choose to pursue their careers. Life is all about making choices and I'm very happy with mine. I have had a wonderful time raising four children and I've also been lucky to have the support of a wonderful husband. Q: YOU DID RELAX YOUR WORKLOAD WHEN YOUR CHILDREN WERE TEENAGERS, THOUGH?

Photo Denis Makarenko l Shutterstock.com

STREEP: It started even before that. When my children were younger, I turned down any project that involved my having to be away from our home for long periods of time. That was just out of the question for me. I wanted to enjoy my life at home and I would only do a film which wouldn't last longer than two months and where I would still fly back on weekends to be with my children. “Being with my husband and my children always brought me the greatest joy and happiness in life. I love acting, of course, but I had already achieved a lot of success by the time my children were growing up that I didn't have the urgency I had to prove myself. I was also very exhausted by the grind of studio meetings and the pressure to keep finding the best films. It left me feeling miserable at times” So I decided to cut back and do different kinds of films. Also when you reach 40, at least in my day, it was considered the beginning of the end of your career playing leads. So that was another factor.

Life is all about making choices and I'm very happy with mine. I have had a wonderful time raising four children and I've also been lucky to have the support of a wonderful husband Q: WHAT DO YOU ACCOUNT FOR YOUR CAREER RENAISSANCE OVER THE PAST DECADE OR SO? STREEP: (Laughs) I don't really know but I'm not complaining. I think that once my children were all grown up and didn't need mommy to look after them anymore, it was the right moment to go back to work with as much passion and dedication as I ever had. Except maybe I don't stress myself as much before every film! (Laughs).

Q: WHAT'S THE SECRET OF HAVING A LONG AND HAPPY MARRIAGE AS IN YOUR CASE WITH DONALD GUMMER? STREEP: We're kind of the perfect odd couple. Don is a man of few words - I'm the one who keeps up a constant stream of chatter in the house. He listens very patiently and then goes back to his work. He also loves me as I am, eager and overactive, even at my age. He's the definition of the introverted and introspective artist. I'm very expressive and more exuberant. We complement each other beautifully that way. Q: DO YOU STILL GET A KICK OUT OF ACTING? STREEP: Yes. The best thing about it is when you're playing a scene and you actually become your character and lose yourself in that moment. That's when you know you've succeeded at what you've worked very hard to accomplish in your profession. Those are the truly thrilling moments.

News / Fashion / Style / Health / Business

MAY 2015

SOUTH INTERVIEW The Apprentice star Roisin Hogan shares her plans for the future GLOBAL RISING STAR Dr Sam Collins - breathing compassion into business FASHION Valiant in Violet - the shade of the season TRAVEL New York in a weekend!

HEALTH The juicing generation – the route to longevity?

The juicing generation – the route to longevity? HEALTH New York in a weekend! TRAVEL Valiant in Violet - the shade of the season FASHION

TRAVEL New York in a weekend! HEALTH The juicing generation – the route to longevity?

The juicing generation – the route to longevity? HEALTH New York in a weekend! TRAVEL Valiant in Violet - the shade of the season FASHION Dr Sam Collins - breathing compassion into business GLOBAL RISING STAR The Apprentice star Roisin Hogan shares her plans for the future INTERVIEW

SOUTH

Are you a business owner? Would you like to put your business in front of 200,000 affluent women every month for just £60 per month?

/ Food / Travel / Family and much more...

presents

www.womenuk.co.uk a fantastic new site for affluent women aged 30 plus

Womenuk.co.uk is the ultimate online website reaching affluent women across the UK. With daily updates on the latest fashion, style, health, business, family, destinations and much more. To get involved, call Jade Prince today on 07534 352046 or email jade@ukwomenmagazine.co.uk

Health & Beauty

Food

Fashion

Family

covering a range of health issues from traditional and alternative perspectives, plus thought provoking beauty tips

delicious and decadent recipes and food inspiration every month

uk women features a colourful and fresh take on fashion and the latest ladiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; accessories

If you are a parent, a guardian, step parent or grandparent, we are sure you will find lots to enjoy

Travel

Interviews

Interiors Design

Business

delivering top travel news, information and accommodation

UK Women talks to stars of stage, screen and television, innovators, champions of women, entrepreneurs, mothers, musicians and more

all the latest tips, techniques and fabulous products to make your home look breath-taking

up-to-date information about the latest business models, news, innovations and sense!

FASHION

Trousers, Dylan Tile Navy, £56

Super Slick 70s styling Onjenu showcase a range of funky, stylish ways to go retro and rock the 1970s vibe

Jumpsuit, Lea Cravat, £110

Skirt, Paige Diamond Blue, £52

Jumpsuit, Megan Arrow Green and Coral Navy, £103

Shirt, Hutton Geo coral, £54

FASHION

Product information: www.onjenu.com

Jumpsuit, Lea ZigZag Pink, £110

Dress, Fond Tile Navy, £107

Dress, Farp Short Capri Dress, £82

Founded in 1975 by Dispensing Optician David Barnaby, Barnabys is now one of the leading Independent Opticians in the South West. At Barnabys we recognise the importance of high quality professional service and a wide selection of distinctive and fashion forward eyewear.

A PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL SERVICE Let our highly qualified optometrists, each with over 10 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience, provide a comprehensive eye exam to assess your visual needs and eye health.

CHILDREN'S EYE EXAMINATIONS Diagnosing sight problems early in children can help prevent learning and development problems. Children rarely complain about their vision, but sometimes show in their behaviour that there may be a problem. This can including sitting too close to the TV, eye rubbing, squinting, holding objects very close, blinking excessively or one eye deviating. However in some cases there may be no symptoms. Children under 16 and those in full time education up to 19 qualify for an NHS funded eye exam. Regular eye examinations are important for all ages.

DISPENSING OPTICIANS AND FASHION Barnabys understand the importance of correct lens design in order to achieve clear and optimal vision dependent on individual needs. With over 60 years combined dispensing experience on hand, your own individual ideas and requirements for spectacles and sunglasses can be carefully evaluated by our qualified Dispensing Opticians. We are passionate about fashion and will help you on your individual journey to the perfect eyewear combining careful fitting and distinctive design and ideas. To learn more about our product range or to book an appointment please contact us at 01202 55649 or visit our website www.barnabysopticians.com

B A R N A B Y S keeping fashion in the frame,

13 The Arcade Bournemouth, BH1 2AF

When it comes to furnishing homes... Relax... We’re premier league!

SAVE 50% IN OUR AUTUMN ANNIVERSARY NOW ON UP TO

...the showroom of the future with values of the past

Open Monday – Saturday 9am – 5.30pm | Sunday 10am - 4pm Free Delivery | Easy Parking | Balcony Café | Dining, Upholstery & Bedroom Departments Ringwood Road, Ferndown, Dorset, BH22 9AL | Tel: 01202 897474 / 893377 www.davidphipp.co.uk | sales@davidphipp.co.uk Courtesy car available within 20 mile radius (wheelchair friendly) please call for information

ALL OUTLET STOCK AT HALF PRICE AVAILABLE FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY

W O N N PE O

- OUTLET STUDIO -

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

MARTA JONSSON

Autumn Collection Marta’s mantra for her brand is ‘style, quality and comfort’, she aims to meet the requirements of busy fashion-conscious modern women and provide beautifully styled shoes that you can actually wear all day long

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Marta Jonsson fabulous shoes are available at www.martajonsson.com

“I was lucky enough to have a vision early on in life – it was shoes and more shoes! I love being on the shop floor and serving customers and creating something that delights people. When I have this feeling it makes me endlessly creative and eager to do more!" Marta Jonsson

Marta Jonsson is the founder, creative director and name behind her footwear brand. Her story began working in the footwear industry in her native Iceland, moving to the UK in the early 1990s. She began her career in London working with various fashion companies, which very soon led to her establishing her own footwear design and wholesale company. Marta worked for a number of years as a key designer and supplier to many footwear and fashion retailers across Europe supplying bestselling ladies footwear season after season. Since a very early age Marta had always wanted to be involved in shoes and discovered a talent for design almost as soon as she could draw. She grew up in a creative household following the strong traditions for hand crafted items in Iceland. Interestingly she was taught the art of shoemaking from her grandmother, who in turn was taught by her own mother - Marta’s great grandmother, who handmade shoes for all of her 13 children from fish skins. With this background Marta soon realised that there was a gap in the footwear market and with her unique mix of Icelandic influence and London style, Marta launched her own brand ‘Marta Jonsson’. The brand now has a strong online business and stores across Europe and growing international interest. Alongside the women’s range she has also turned her prodigious design talent to handbags, a men’s range with a cool twist and more recently a range of adorable shoes for girls. There is a strong Scandanivian influence on fashion currently and although Marta has lived away from her home country of Iceland for the last 20 years, she has always looked to Iceland for inspiration. Design ideas are always there to be found in the dynamic energy and natural beauty of the amazing landscapes and have inspired Marta‘s recent Northern Lights collection. A capsule range of ladies, mens and kids pure sheepskin boots that Marta designed to be worn in the country, but that would also look uber chic in the city.

Marta’s mantra for her brand is ‘style, quality and comfort’, she aims to meet the requirements of busy fashion-conscious modern women and provide beautifully styled shoes that you can actually wear all day long. This is partly achieved by her unique cushioning support system fitted to the insole of every shoe and aptly named ‘Soft-in-Step by Marta’. But who is the woman behind the brand? Marta has worked hard all her life with her first job at 13 in a sweet shop in Iceland. She was raised by a single mother who worked hard to provide for Marta and her brother and Marta was inspired to work hard to achieve her dreams. She is an ambitious, exuberant, busy working wife and mother with an abundant passion for her business and family! From an early age she always loved shoes and discovered a talent for design as she started her journey in shoe retail.

Shoes featured here priced with corresponding number: 1. £129. 2. £149. 3. £150. 4. £129 5. £99. 6. £199. 7. £139

FASHION

FAIRTRADE FASHION

Alma Shift Dress, £145

Fashion does not have to be fast. It's possible to look fantastic whilst wearing clothes that are ethically produced and fairly traded We’ve all seen the Fairtrade logo when out shopping on a variety of products. Many of us will choose to pick up a product specifically because it states that it is Fairtrade, but what does this really mean? Fair Trade (as opposed to Fairtrade) is an alternative way of trading and is opposed to conventional world trade policies. It is based on a partnership between producers and consumers. Essentially it boils down to a better deal for producers. When a product is embellished with a Fairtrade logo it means that it has met Fairtrade standards. Fairtrade fashion encompasses clothes that are both ethically sourced and produced so you can enjoy stunning fashion without the guilt. Here we showcase two stylish Fairtrade fashion brands.

ADE

Short Stella Abstract Dress, £70

People Tree People Tree prides itself on providing an alternative to fast fashion. The People Tree ethos is to stand up against exploitation, family separation, slum cities and pollution – all the things that make fast fashion so successful. People Tree’s garments are hand crafted in organic cotton and sustainable materials, using traditional skills that support rural communities. www.peopletree.co.uk

Ripley Pencil Skirt, £58, People Tree

Zandra Rhodes Dress, £55

FASHION

Fair Trade (FT) The term Fair Trade defines a trading partnership, based on dialogue, transparency and respect that seeks greater equity in international trade. It contributes to sustainable development by offering better trading conditions to, and securing the rights of, marginalized producers and workers - especially in developing countries. The term Fairtrade (with no abbreviation) is used to denote the product certification system operated by Fairtrade International.

Nomads A shared love of India and its culture inspired intrepid explorers Duncan and Vicky to start up their own clothing company. Inspired by Indian craft, they worked with a designer to create styles they felt were perfect for the European market. The Nomads philosophy is to create clothing with the individual woman in mind, whilst maintaining a respect for people and nature, believing strongly in fair trade values and following ethical fashion guidelines. wwwnomadsclothing.com

Rana Velvet Coat, ÂŁ170, Nomads

For full information please visit Fair Trade Glossary - a joint publication of the World Fair Trade Organization, Fairtrade International and FLO-CERT www.fairtrade.net

Knitted Maxi Cardigan, ÂŁ70, Nomads

UK Women takes a look at some delicious products that are either organic or Fairtrade (and sometimes both)

ETHICAL TREATS SEED AND BEAN

The Organic Food Federation goes further in explaining that organic production is fully sustainable and environmentally sound. Organic produce is traceable from the farm to the fork because at every stage of its journey it is inspected and certified. This ensures the integrity of any product marketed as organic. www.orgfoodfed.com Fairtrade on the other hand is about better prices, decent working conditions and fair terms of trade for farmers and workers. It’s about supporting the development of thriving farming and worker communities that have more control over their futures and protecting the environment in which they live and work. www.fairtrade.org.uk With this in mind we’ve rounded up a few organic and/or Fairtrade goodies for you to consider when you next tuck in.

pe r .4 £2

According to the Organic Foods Production Act (OFPA), the definition of organic includes those food products that are grown without using most pesticides or fertilizers with synthetic ingredients; there is no irradiation treatment; seeds and transplants are chemicalfree; the fertilizer is natural.

ba r

When you tuck into your favourite treat do you ever wonder where it comes from or who produces it or whether you are consuming additives that you didn’t bargain on? The words Organic and/or Fairtrade often appear on products we buy. What does this mean for us? s, Se ar ed eB t a and B l ean Choco

With the tag line ‘Kaleidoscopic moments of pleasure’ multi award-winning British chocolate brand Seed and Bean offers a collection of 18 beautifully blended, mind-blowing, full-flavoured organic, 100% natural, handmade, chocolate bars. All 18 flavoured bars are suitable for vegetarians, and their 12 dark bars are vegan friendly and the milk and white are all Kosher Certified. With daring combinations such as Lemon & Cardamom, Cornish Sea Salt, Espresso, Lavender, Coconut & Raspberry, Lemon & Poppy Seed or Mandarin & Ginger and many more... Seed and Bean are available at Waitrose, Selfridges, Wholefoods Markets and a wide variety of farm shops, delis and independent stores. www.seedandbean.co.uk

ORGANIC PROTEIN COMPANY When Daniel Whitehead was looking for an Organic Whey Protein supplier in the UK he was surprised to find there wasn’t one. Not one to rest on his laurels he went to great lengths to be the first supplier in the UK and after many challenges is proud to supply 100 % Organic Whey Protein from cows that are treated with the utmost respect and compassion. The result is a neutrally flavoured creamy tasting product, which you can mix with your favourite flavours to get a much needed protein boost knowing it has come from an ethical place with no added nasties. www.organicproteincompany.com

CAFÉ DIRECT Café Direct are proud to have a pioneering history of bringing the first Fairtrade certified coffee to the UK. They’ve grown into an ethical hot drinks brand with a mission to use business as a force for good. Café Direct now works with over 40 producer organisations in 14 countries. They champion the work of small farmers and deliver delicious products, always committed to having a positive impact for people and the environment. Their coffee is renowned for being full of flavour, smooth with no bitter aftertaste. www.cafedirect.co.uk

Café Direct Rich Ground Roast, 227 g/bag, £3.19

Organic Whey Protein, 440 g/bag, £22

Taylors Fairtrade Organic Coffee, 227 g, £3.99. Available to buy in Waitrose, Tesco and Sainsbury’s nationwide.

TAYLORS OF HARROGATE Taylors look for beans with serious character from across the globe. The beans are then roasted to perfect their flavour. A blended coffee includes beans from different locations, carefully selected to taste great. The blends are crafted to achieve an impeccable balance, and each has a distinct flavour suited to different palates and occasions. A Latin American blend, Good Morning is Taylor’s delicious, feel-good morning roast, made with 100% organic, Fairtrade beans grown by smallholder farmers. www.taylorsofharrogate.co.uk

THE NEW ENGLISH REVIVAL Designed and built in Britain by traditionally skilled craftsmen, the new collection offers a contemporary take on classic design

The new English Revival Modern Classic collection from Mereway Kitchens creates an individual style with bespoke furniture, iconic stand-alone pieces and a sumptuous colour palette. From Georgian splendour to country manor chic and the ultimate grand designs home, the collection is like no other, built to the highest standards with scrupulous attention to detail. A new approach to colour allows the consumer to select from a fresh and fabulous collection of 25 colours to reflect their chosen style. Earth tones, greens, greys and blues make up the core colour choices with tonal colours complementing and contrasting beautifully.

Get in touch for more information or visit the showroom. T 01202 546546, E sales@kitchenhouse.co.uk 116-118 Castle Lane West, Bournemouth, Bh9 3JU

BEAUTY

We live in a universe that is unquestionably obsessed with image. Whether we flick through pages of a glossy magazine or scroll through the news feeds on our social media accounts, we are forever faced with fabulous, flawless complexions via celebrities parading what we suppose is pure perfection. A certain editing, image-manipulation programme may be the overriding digital tool to portray such perfection (hello Photoshop). Although it can

To recreate a stunning, flawless look, follow these tips of the trade…

Contouring has emerged as the new facial make-up phenomenon; a craze that has gone supersonic in the beauty industry, favoured by many women who desire to achieve facial bone structure, shape and enhancement through the means of make-up. It may sound slightly intimidating, but it’s seriously simple and is guaranteed to give amazing results. The overall effect is not supposed to be noticeable, but instead convey a subtle definition that is created through artistry and illusion.

great product to use when in preparation for any successful beauty regime is bareMinerals Purely Nourishing Moisturizer: Combination Skin, £27, which is a lightweight, effective cream that defends against environmental stressors and balances out the skin beautifully.

PAINT A FOUNDATION BASE ALL OVER TO CREATE A RADIANT FINISH AND EVEN OUT SKIN TONE. MAC Pro Longwear

The internet is awash with tips and tricks on the latest craze of how to look picture perfect without going near a surgical knife or a pot of Botox. Katie Farley unveils the tips and tricks that go into contouring make up transform the ordinary into the extraordinary, it also represents a fictitious portrayal of reality. This, along with the rise in demand for drastic intervention (i.e. surgery) has, until recently, been the celebrity world’s answer to facial perfection. However, the latest beauty innovation has emerged, and it arrives as a make-up technique all women can achieve without the need to undergo any radical measures – enter contouring make-up.

MOISTURISE AND PRIME YOUR FACE. A generally

SPF10 Foundation, £25, is the one all beauty artists swear by, as it bottles a long-wear foundation that stays on up to 15 hours, is lightweight, creamy, goes on with ease, and provides sheer to medium coverage that is naturally flawless.

Effectively applying darker and lighter shadowing are the essential contouring beauty ingredients to manipulate the shape of your features, instantly enabling them to pop. This technique can make your eyes appear bigger, your nose more defined, your lips poutier, your cheekbones killer, your jawbone razor sharp, and can ultimately portray a slimmer face; all of which is totally achievable just by adopting certain techniques into your make-up regime.

TO BRIGHTEN UNDER THE EYES, apply a concealer that

is two shades lighter than your skin tone. Other areas of focus are under the brow shape, the upper cheekbones, nose panel and cupid bow. For great results try Smashbox Step-By-Step Contour Stick Trio, £35.

THE TRICK WHEN FINDING A COLOUR TO CONTOUR WITH IS TO OPT FOR SHADES THAT IMITATE NATURAL SHADOWS, for instance, taupe

DIVINE CONTOURS

or subtle grey/browns. Two great options include MAC Sculpting Powder Pro Palette, £16.50, that is tinted to enhance natural bone structure, or Urban Decay Naked Flushed Palette, £22.50, featuring three superb shades needed for contour colouring.

Words Katie Farley

WHEN APPLYING YOUR CONTOUR THE VITAL TOOL IS A MAKE-UP BRUSH that

BEAUTY

features a small tip or an angle to make the process easier. Nars No.21 Contour Brush, £31, is expertly angled for sculpting and highlighting the cheekbones, and is described as an artist essential to define and blend with controlled application.

WHEN FOCUSING ON CHEEK CONTOURS, CARVE AND SCULPT, beginning from the

middle of the ear and gently sweep the shadows across the face. Blend with small circular movements to avoid hard lines.

THE NOSE PANEL AND FOREHEAD are the next

CONTOUR THE OUTER under

HIGHLIGHTING – choose

contour focuses. Paint the outer temples to create a light halo – this gives a flattering appearance when the forehead is exposed.

the jaw line towards the ear to define and shape the face using the same brush technique.

either a cream or powder to highlight your higher planes. For a healthy glow, opt for a cream, as the matte vs shine creates a fabulous complementary look. On top of your light concealer, press on to the cheekbones, nose panel and Cupid's bow using MAC Cream Colour Base in Pearl, £16, to showcase a beautiful subtle radiance.

TO FURTHER ENHANCE YOUR MAKE-UP, apply a

light blush to the apples of your cheeks and cheekbones, which will effectively ignite all the shades together and create a natural flush. MAC Cream blush, £18.50, for cheeks is always a winner! Finally, to complete your flawless look, dust over some MAC Mineralize Pressed Powder, £24, to the t-zone.

Product information: www.smashbox.co.uk www.houseoffraser.co.uk (for NARS and MAC cosmetics & products) www.urbandecay.co.uk www.bareminerals.co.uk

4 9

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

LUNCH TIME FACE LIFT… TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE?

If you have dreamed of looking younger but are struggling with the idea of surgery, chemicals, time or affordability the PDO Thread Lift may be just what you are looking for Lunch time face lift does indeed sound too good to be true so we decided to check this out for ourselves. With the help of River Aesthetics based in The New Forest, we investigated why Thread Lifts are becoming the must have procedure for every woman over the age of 40.

the targeted area. These threads attach to the skin tissue and are then pulled back to lift and smooth the face. Almost immediately, treated areas will be raised slightly, eliminating sagging and giving a rejuvenated appearance. Once the threads are inserted, they become hidden within the skin itself.

A thread facelift is a convenient, less invasive alternative to traditional facelifts, designed for people experiencing early signs of aging, such as minor facial sagging. This innovative facelift procedure can be performed in just one hour. During a thread facelift, the practitioner inserts thin threads into the face through tiny incisions made in

The great thing about a thread lift is that it offers quick recovery together with excellent results. Local anaesthetic is all that is required and there is no hospital stay required. Another good factor about the thread lift is that it is much more affordable than a regular face lift with prices from £600.00 and the results are long lasting - for up to two years.

Seems like a bit of a no brainer, right? The threads are made of PDO (polydioxanone) material, which is used for surgical stitches. PDO continuously stimulates collagen synthesis under skin, which means the results improve over time. The full effect can be realised after three months. When inserted into the skin, they act as a “scaffold” for the skin that helps to “hold” the skin against the effects of gravity. The threads are absorbable and therefore will be reabsorbed in four to six months, leaving nothing behind but the skin structure created which continues to hold for another 18-24 months. Greeted by the team who are (reassuringly) two GP’s, Dr Charlotte Woodward and Dr Victoria Manning, a full medical history was taken and a consultation and explanation on the PDO Thread Lift given. All consent forms signed, lots of photographs of my face taken and we were ready to begin. After receiving local anaesthetic to two areas at either side of my face by my ears, the threads were inserted, this was generally a painless exercise. The procedure took just shy of an hour and I felt fine throughout. At worst some pressure in my face and at best, my day dreaming about how youthful I planned to look afterwards! I felt totally reassured that the procedure was being performed by two medical doctors - as let’s face it, we often hear the horror stories about aesthetics going wrong! I was once again told that the full effects would take up to three months to realise but looking in the mirror, I saw an instant result with a lifting of my lower face. Being honest, this procedure far, far exceeded my expectations and if this is the result of paying over a few hundred pounds to look so much younger in a lunch hour time frame, my biggest question is why on earth is every woman not rushing to have this procedure done? For lasting results for up to two years, UK Women say Go Now, Go Quick, You will Love the Results.

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

River Aesthetics is a Centre of Excellence in the UK for PDO and Silhouette soft threads For more information contact www.riveraesthetics.com 01590 608480

“Looking in the mirror, I saw an instant result with a lifting of my lower face. Being honest, this procedure far, far exceeded my expectations ”

Ask the expert

Ask the expert Interior Designer - Ruth Hammond

Beauty Therapist - Tamara Warrington

How can I make my living room more 'autumnal'?

Hello, my name is Tamara Warrington. I have a garden based salon in a log cabin where I offer pampering beauty and holistic treatments. I will be writing a series of columns for UK Women over the coming months on some of the latest beauty products and treatments on offer!

Now autumn is approaching throw a faux fur throw over the sofa or an armchair to add a touch of cosiness as the evenings start to get darker and you feel more like staying in to watch a movie. If you have neutral coloured upholstery in your living room, add a touch of autumn colour with cushions in richly golden yellows, burnt orange and purple. Mixing silky, linen and velvety textures to add tactile interest which suit when you’re wanting to spend more time indoors. If you have a large coffee table or dining table delight your family by ‘bringing the outside in’ with a centre piece arrangement of Hydrangea flower heads, inexpensive pots of herbs and figs – which can always be used to make a pie later! Just a few seasonal touches like this will make a refreshing change to the look of the home without doing a full refurbishment. Using fake silk flowers and foliage make a very practical alternative to real plants which might struggle when the central heating is turned back on again. Try the same in the main bedroom too… If you have any more questions or would like some ideas on how to decorate or refurbish your home perhaps you’ve just moved, and you would like some help personalising your new home, please contact Ruth at Ruth Hammond Design Tel: 07799 665800 or e-mail ruth@ruthhammonddesign.com also visit www.ruthhammonddesign.com Ruth has had a wealth of experience working in interior and textile design for various design companies in London and in Hampshire. Working on a variety of interior projects from yachts, bar and restaurants as well as private homes.

Are you going away this summer? Or heading to the beach for blissful sunny days? Lashnv will give you the glamorous lashes you have always wished for. No more stressing over beautifully applied mascara turning into panda eyes after a few hours! Lashnv is an innovative treatment that lifts the natural eyelashes, giving the look of defined lashes without the need for mascara. It is a wonderful, natural solution for busy ladies and mums who don't have the time to maintain and infill eyelash extensions. Your natural lashes are gently lifted onto silicon shields, straightened from the root, and then colour boosted for intensity and definition. The treatment takes 45 minutes to an hour, delivers instant low maintenance results and lasts for 6-8 weeks. Mascara can still be applied, if desired, for an even more amazingly dramatic effect! Lashnv, the perfect way to lift, extend and define your own natural lashes. Hope you have a wonderful summer! Tamara Warrington 07779 399172 www.tranquility-cabin.co.uk www.facebook.com/TranquilityBeautyTreatments

Ask the expert

Ask the expert Georgie Collins - Spire Health Care

Robert Bentley - Foremost Wine Club

Breast Reduction

Why become a member of a Wine Club?

Patients who choose to have breast reduction surgery have usually suffered from back ache, shoulder pain and poor posture, they feel disproportionate and are unable to find clothes that fit.

Most people might consider joining a wine club for various reasons. Whether you are a seasoned wine guru or a grab a bottle at the supermarket on the way home type of women, a wine club membership has a lot to offer you. Wine clubs will offer you the opportunity to build your knowledge, learn tasting tips, try new wines or on a social level, meet and chat with other wine enthusiasts at staged events. One can expect certain discounts on wine, information on featured wines, discussion forums and wine tasting events.

They often find they are unable to exercise as their breasts get in the way and just want to be able to buy a bra off the shelf rather than having to purchase specialist underwear which is practical but not usually pretty. The surgery takes around 2 1/2 to 3 hours and is under a general anaesthetic and they usually stay at Spire Southampton Hospital for two nights. We recommend taking about two weeks off work to recover (depending on occupation) and patients are advised to wear a sports bra for four to six weeks after surgery. Patients attend regular follow up appointments until both the patient and surgeon are happy but can come back at any time, Spire Healthcare offer lifetime aftercare. www.spirehealthcare.com/southampton

When looking for your Wine club, check out the benefits offered and make sure it is a good fit for what you would want to achieve from your club. Get involved and learn! Our tip this month….tired of drinking Sauvignon Blanc and want to try something different? Try the little known Vermentino grape. The wine is intense and elegant with aromas of wild flowers. In the mouth expect flavours of acacia and golden apples. In a recent tasting, the Vermentino did remarkabley well against Sauvignon Blanc based wines. Recommended is the Italian vineyard of Cantine Lunae Bosoni. Try the entry level Grigia Colli di Luni or its big sister the Nera Colli di Luni. Price per bottle is £11.85 and £13.25 respectively. For more information: www.foremostwineclub.com

After 25 years in the fitness industry, Zoe found yoga. She studied in India and Asia where she experimented with both ancient and modern cleaning practises. She runs classes all around Dorset and offers private tuition including luxurious yoga retreats around the world. Yoga is a way of life. We’ve actually been doing yoga since we were babies! If you watch a baby or child, they will do some form of yoga throughout their day without even knowing! Yoga is good for everyone, from beginners to regular practitioners. It’s for people looking for weight loss, for mums and dads and for the young and old. It’s never too late to start. Yoga helps you to restore your inner harmony, making the journey through life calmer, helping you to focus. So this can relieve everyday stress. The best way to experience yoga is through private instruction. It gives you the opportunity to work closely with the yogi and each session will focus on your individual needs, with gentle hands on instructions. It is especially good if you are recovering from injury or a little nervous about yoga or want to overcome a specific challenge. With private tuition you will begin to see results far quicker than in a class situation as the sessions will be focused entirely on you and your individual needs. It can be done in the comfort of your own home at a time that suits you. www.exclusiveoceanyogaretreats.com

Ask the expert

Ask the expert Zoe Lee – Ocean Yoga

Elfa - Raw Food Expert Healthier body, cleaner skin and more energy with this one easy daily habit. This one simple thing can change your life and benefit you in so many different ways. If there was only one good, daily, healthy habit that I could recommend to you, this would be it: Start your day, every day with 1 to 2 pints of water with freshly squeezed juice from ½ - 1 lemon. It is best to have the water at room temperature and wait for at least 30 minutes before having anything else to eat or drink. It is even more powerful if you manage to drink the whole litre within few minutes. Note that this is the only time during the day, that I recommend drinking so much water so quickly! It’s like 'flushing' the whole system. It stimulates the digestive track and gets it ready for the food you will have during the day. It helps to eliminate waste more quickly from your body. Lemon water gives you energy and is a good hydration first thing in the morning, which is exactly what your body needs after fasting for the whole night. Lemons are packed with nutrients. They are high in vitamin C, which is needed for collagen production for smooth, healthy skin; B-complex vitamins; calcium; iron; magnesium and potassium. Lemons are a great source of alkaline food, that can help to balance your body's pH levels. Many people find that adding this one simple step into their daily lives has very positive effects on the waistline as not only are the benefits of drinking lemon water in the morning almost endless, it’s one of the most substantial yet simple changes you can make for your health!

Ask the expert

Register today for your 5 WEEK FREE TRIAL! Founded in 1975 by Dispensing Optician David Barnaby, Barnabys is now one of the leading independent opticians in the south west. Barnabys recognise the importance of high quality professional service and a wide selection of distinctive and fashion forward eyewear. Here the team answer some of your pressing eye wear questions. When I wear my spectacles I think I look like my mother! I know they are there for functionality but can they improve my image? Your spectacles are one of the first things people see when they look at you. As Miniccia Prada said: 'What you wear is how you present yourself to the world, especially today, when human contact is so quick. Fashion is instant language. - ‘That is spot on!’ Whilst we each have individual style fashion does play a part, and no less so in spectacle design than any other accessory. Let’s face it, whilst spectacles have a function they are a key accessory, no different to a handbag or a pair of shoes. A qualified dispensing optician can guide you to make the best choice for you and your style, remember we are doing this every day! At a quick glance it can appear that all current fashion eyewear is the same, but in fact tiny design alterations make a massive visual difference and can change a look dramatically. The key is to try different things and follow the guidance you receive. Spectacles can even help to make you look younger if the correct lenses are used, changing a lens type from a bifocal or reading lenses to a varifocal can really help to give a youthful look. I know it’s important to wear sunglasses. Is it possible to get stylish prescription sunglasses? Yes of course, whilst some prescriptions and styles have limitations almost nothing is impossible these days. Fall in love with the sunglasses and then we add your prescription lenses filtering UV and high energy visible light, effectively giving you sun tan lotion for your eyes. www.barnabysopticians.com

Join the Reading and Maths Challenge and keep the learning going for your child this summer with a 5 WEEK FREE TRIAL of the multi-award winning Reading Eggs and Mathseeds! Designed for ages 3-6, the comprehensive online learning programmes feature hundreds of structured lessons and thousands of guided activities to help children learn essential early reading and maths skills. Developed by experienced primary educators and trusted in over 16,000 schools worldwide, lessons are matched to your child’s ability and progress at a steady pace. Children enjoy learning with fun characters, great songs and exciting rewards to help them stay motivated. Plus, you can track your child’s progress with detailed assessment reports. Register today to start your 5 WEEK FREE TRIAL of Reading Eggs and Mathseeds. Registration is fast and easy! Reg ister to join the cha llenge

by 30th Septe Visit mber w ww

Please

note: Thi so

ffer is only

.readingeg gs.co.uk/rm c

available fo

r new customers

who register at th e

above URL.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT

CONTRACEPTION

Methods of contraception have been in development for thousands of years; in the UK we now offer a whole variety of options to help prevent pregnancy. When it comes to choice we’re spoilt, but with options come decisions and with each method it’s all about weighing up the pros and cons to figure out what suits you, your relationship and your lifestyle. UK Women takes a look at what’s currently on offer for women.

PERMANENT OPTIONS

DISADVANTAGES

ADVANTAGES

FEMALE STERILISATION

• Due to the need for surgery there is a small risk of infection and a chance it won’t work.

• The device is a permanent method of birth control.

This is not an option to undertake lightly. With all surgery comes risks and this is only to be considered if you are certain you don’t want children or have completed your family. During surgery your fallopian tubes are blocked to prevent sperm from reaching your eggs and fertilising them. Many hold the misconception that once you are sterilised you no longer have periods; this isn't the case - they will continue as normal until the menopause, although you will no longer be fertile. ADVANTAGES • This method is 99 per cent effective and once complete you can enjoy spontaneous sex without interruption.

• This operation is extremely difficult to reverse, so if you change your mind reversal may not be an option. • No protection against STI’s (Sexually Transmitted Infections).

ESSURE Essure is a non-surgical, non-hormonal permanent method of contraception. It is only recommended if you are certain you don’t want children or have completed your family. It involves the insertion of small implants into each fallopian tube by a trained healthcare practitioner.

• You never have to think about contraception choices again after successful surgery.

The inserts need to be in place for three months before an Essure confirmation test is carried out, which ascertains if the inserts are in place and working with your body to prevent pregnancy.

• It is also great for those who don’t wish to have fluctuating emotions as sterilisation does not affect your hormone levels.

Once this test has been satisfactorily completed you will be free to stop using any other form of contraception permanently.

• Their placement only requires local anaesthetic. • Does not require any surgical incision, so there will not be scarring, It is minimally invasive surgery. • Essure does not use any form of hormone so your body will not be affected. • Once inserted and positioned, everyday life is resumed immediately. DISADVANTAGES • The most common side-effect is some pain and discomfort upon insertion. • The procedure is not reversible. • It does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases or infections. • You must use other contraceptives for up to three months after insertion • There may be an allergic reaction to Essure device material. • You may experience changes to your menstrual cycle.

NON-PERMANENT OPTIONS CONDOMS (FEMALE) Condoms are universally accepted as a good method for preventing pregnancy. They also are the only form of contraceptive that offers protection against sexually transmitted diseases. The female condom is worn inside the vagina. If used correctly they can be more than 95 per cent effective which is only slightly lower than the male form. ADVANTAGES • Condoms are unique in the fact that it is the only form of contraception that will prevent both pregnancy and reduce the transmission of STIs, which is why a large section of women choose this method as it is the safest whilst also having no side effects (except for allergy issues).

• It can also increase your blood pressure and there is a possibility of irregular bleeding and spotting in the first few months. • It has been linked to some health issues such as breast cancer and thrombosis. • It is reliant on you remembering to take it at a set time every day An alternative to the Combined Pill is the Mini Pill, which contains Progestogen only and is suited to women who are unable to tolerate oestrogen or for women who wish to stay on the pill until menopause or up until the age of 55. Unlike the Combined Pill it must be taken every single day of your cycle without a break. It may cause menstrual irregularities.

• It can be placed in the vagina up to eight hours before sex so will not interrupt the intimacy and mood immediately before sex

• Although condoms are extremely strong it is possible they can tear if not applied correctly. • They are not as widely available to buy as male condoms and are more expensive.

COMBINED PILL

• Many enjoy the factor that the Combined Pill can make periods lighter, regular and less painful • It also reduces the risk of cancer of the ovaries and womb

• Heavier more uncomfortable periods may occur, but this should subside after the first few months.

OTHER HORMONAL CONTRACEPTIVES CONTRACEPTIVE PATCH VAGINAL RING CONTRACEPTIVE IMPLANT CONTRACEPTIVE INJECTION

ADVANTAGES The main advantages of these are like those of the pill in that they are highly effective (if used correctly) and don’t interrupt the spontaneity of sex.

IUD The Intrauterine device is a small T-shaped device inserted into the womb by a trained nurse or doctor. It stops the sperm and egg from surviving within the fallopian tube or womb, once inserted it can last up to 5-10 years depending on the type. It is a very effective product. ADVANTAGES

• Sex can be spontaneous whilst on the Pill and it does not reduce sensation for either partner

• This is a good option for women who are breastfeeding or on medication as it will not affect or be affected by this.

DISADVANTAGES

• Once applied it comes into immediate effect and lasts for the requisite time frame or until you chose for its removal, after this your fertility will return to normal instantly.

• The Combined Pill can have disrupting side effects including breast tenderness, headaches and mood swings.

• No protection against STI’s.

These methods generally work on the same basis as the Pill in the sense that the hormones work in several ways, by thickening cervical mucus and / or reducing or preventing ovulation.

• There may be a small reduction in sensation.

ADVANTAGES

• The most dramatic consequence of an IUD is vaginal bleeding and pain. You must contact your GP immediately if you feel that this pain is excessive, this may be due to a fault in its insertion. This is not a common occurrence but can cause many women to have it removed or discourage them from trying it and seeking other forms of contraception instead.

There are a variety of other contraceptive options for women that utilise synthetic hormones which migrate into your body through a range of ways, including through the skin, the vagina or directly into the bloodstream. This is advantageous for those who find it difficult to remember to take the Pill.

DISADVANTAGES

When the Combined Pill has been consumed, synthetic hormones based on oestrogen and progesterone are released, which prevent the ovaries from ovulating. For the pill to meet its 99 per cent efficacy rate you must take it continuously for 21 days in a row and then have a seven day break to allow for your period.

DISADVANTAGES

• Unlike the pill you do not need to remember to take something every day. • The implant and injection do not contain oestrogen, which may be preferential to some. DISADVANTAGES • Similar to those of the Pill with the exception that you do not need to remember to take something everyday. For detailed guidelines on contraceptives visit your GP or local family planning centre. You can also visit www.nhs.uk/ Conditions/contraception-guide for detailed information on all currently available contraceptives.

Win a mid-week stay for two at

the Captain’s Club Hotel and Spa! To celebrate the Captain’s Club Hotel’s partnership with Tanqueray No Ten Gin the Captain’s Club Hotel are giving two lucky people the opportunity to enjoy a mid-week stay in one of their beautiful river facing rooms including Gin & Tonics on arrival in your room, a delicious dinner in the Club Restaurant, up to the value of £35 per person, a bottle of Club Wine to accompany dinner and a full English breakfast in the morning. Guests will also have access to the hydrotherapy pool and sauna at the CCSpa. The Captain’s Club Hotel is a stunning piece of modern architecture on the edge of the River Stour, only a short walk from the historic town centre of Christchurch and minutes from the beautiful waters of the Solent. Every detail of the contemporary hotel has been meticulously designed to give a feeling of style, warmth and comfort. With 17 staterooms and 12 two and three bedroom suites, you have the choice of any style of accommodation in which to relax and enjoy river views from every room. The award winning Tides restaurant offers superb food and friendly service with breath-taking views across the river and, in summer months, alfresco dining on the terrace.

in with a chance All you have to do to be prize is correctly tic tas fan of winning this ow: answer the question bel

are there at How many staterooms ? the Captain’s Club Hotel 1) None 2) 17 3) 5 Send your answer to azine.co.uk with the enquiries@ukwomenmag Tanqueray No Ten Gin. Club ’s tain Cap : title subject daytime telephone a e, nam r you Please include ress. add il ema number and contact

For more information visit:

www.captainsclubhotel.com Captain's Club Hotel Wick Ferry Christchurch Dorset BH23 1HU 01202 475111

t ipt of entries is midnigh The closing date for rece st 5. 201 r obe Oct 31 on Saturday

TERMS AND CONDITIONS: The winner will be selected at random from the entries. The judges’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. The competition is open to all UK, Isle of Man and Channel Island residents excluding employees of the Captain’s Club Hotel and Spa and NFC Publishing LLP. You must be over 18 years of age to enter this competition. Only one entry per household. Every endeavour will be made to contact the winner, however if not contactable the Captain’s Club Hotel and UK Women magazine reserve the right to reallocate the prize from another random draw. The prize is subject to availability and the winner of the competition must agree to have his/her name published and/or photographed for promotional purposes if necessary. The prize excludes all travel to and from the Captain’s Club Hotel and any personal expenditure incurred (separate to stated inclusions). In the event of unforeseen circumstances the Captain’s Club Hotel reserves the right to offer an alternative prize of equal or greater value. No responsibility will be accepted by the Captain’s Club Hotel or UK Women magazine for loss of entry through technical fault, transmission, delays or incomplete, illegible or other damaged entries. The prize is valid until 30th April 2016 and excludes Christmas, Valentine’s Day and Bank Holidays. This prize cannot be exchanged for cash. All spa treatments are chargeable.

HEALTH

THE DIET CONUNDRUM Dieting has become one of the world’s largest modern trends. With this comes a myriad of confusing and conflicting information about what makes us fat and how we can lose weight First of all, LOW-FAT OR NO-FAT DIETS. Are these the way to weight

management? Many people tend to think they need a low-fat diet to lose weight, but you should still have a third of your calories coming from fat. The body needs fat for energy, tissue repair and to transport vitamins A, D, E and K around the body. The average woman needs approximately 70g of fat a day (95g for men) with 30g as the minimum (40g for men). There's no need to follow a fat-free diet. Cutting down on saturated fats and eating unsaturated fats, found in things like olive oil and avocados is helpful. 'Low-fat' or 'fat-free' doesn't necessarily mean low calorie or calorie-free. Check the calorie content of foods, especially cakes, biscuits, crisps, ice creams and ready meals. EXTRA SUGARS AND THICKENERS are often added to boost flavour and texture, so calorie content may be only a bit less, or similar to standard products. Additional sugar is often responsible for weight gain rather than fat, so swapping fat for sugar is probably not a wise move.

FASTING? IS THAT THE WAY TO GO?

Crash dieting or fasting makes you lose weight. This may be true in the short term, but ultimately it can hinder weight loss. Losing weight over the long term burns off fat. Crash dieting or fasting not only removes fat but also lean muscle and tissue. The loss of lean muscle causes a fall in your basal metabolic rate – the amount of calories your body needs on a daily basis. This means your body will need fewer calories than it did previously, making weight gain more likely once you stop dieting.

NOT EATING AFTER 6PM? Is food eaten late at night more fattening? Many diets tell you not to eat after a certain time in the evening. They say the body will store more fat because it is not burned off with any activity.

It's not when you eat that's important, but the total amount you consume in a 24-hour period. It is true that people who skip meals during the day, then eat loads in the evening are more likely to be overweight than those who eat regularly throughout the day. This may be because eating regular meals helps people regulate their appetite and overall food intake.

IT IS ALL ABOUT YOUR METABOLISM! A slow metabolism

prevents weight loss - This is a common myth among dieters who are struggling to lose weight. Studies have shown that resting metabolism - the number of calories used by the body at rest – increases as people become fatter. In other words, the larger you are, the more calories you need to keep your body going and the higher your metabolism. Weight gain occurs when the number of calories eaten is greater than the number used up by the body. Unfortunately, people are becoming increasingly sedentary, burning off less and less calories, and it seems likely this is a crucial factor in the increasing numbers struggling to control their weight.

CHOLESTEROL IS BAD FOR YOU.

Cholesterol is a fatty substance that is made mostly by the liver. It can be bad for us, because it forms deposits that line and clog our arteries. Clogged arteries contribute to heart disease. But we all need some blood cholesterol because it's used to build cells and make vital hormones – and there's good and bad cholesterol. Saturated fats found in food like meat, cheese, cream, butter and processed pastries tend to raise low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, known as 'bad' cholesterol, which delivers cholesterol to the arteries. 'High density lipoprotein (HDL), or 'good' cholesterol, transports

cholesterol away from the arteries, back to the liver. So choose unsaturated fats such as vegetable oils, nuts and seeds. With all the confusing information out there, the ‘diet’ that gets the longest lasting results is a varied diet based on plenty of fresh fruit and vegetable, grains, pulses and good fats. Couple this with a moderate exercise plan and you are well on your way. All weight loss takes determination and the right mind set and ultimately following ‘fad’ diets will lead to temporary results. If you want weight to stay off permanently you have to alter your diet to one that suits you and your lifestyle and is sustainable in the long term.

HEALTH

INTERIORS

into your home Words Emily Stafford

Interior Designer, Emily Stafford gives UK Women the low down on how to achieve coastal living all year round Coastal living appeals to many people as it reminds them of childhood holidays on the beach with the sea breezes and sunny days having fun. The beach is a very relaxing place and can blow away any stresses you may have – it's also seasonal so recreating this timeless environment within your house can make home feel like a return to your holiday every time you walk through the door. With so many stresses in our daily lives creating tranquil spaces to recharge at home is essential for our wellbeing. Coast style is fresh and relaxed with nothing grand or imposing. The chic seaside look is created with an inviting décor, filling rooms with light and airy spaces. Coastal living is a simple, uncluttered style which can be emulated in most spaces. The omnipresent sea dictates the tones of these living spaces, this is best achieved through an abundance of glass. Using vast windows is preferable in a quest for absolute light, however mirrors, vases and other glass touches can help to build this effect. Beautiful light coloured shutters reminiscent of plantation homes help to recreate the 'coastal' effect, however long sheer curtains in natural fabrics like unbleached cotton or linen are also very effective.

Flooring should be kept neutral with painted or natural wood or reclaimed floor boards, with sisal area rugs or neutral coloured carpets. Bold, dark patterns should be kept out of this design. When choosing colours think of the sky, sea and beach with soft whites, greys, cool calm blues, as well as natural tones like sand. Subtle use of nautical stripes and patterns can inject the theme to a neutral room without it becoming overpowering. Using cool soothing colours creates a sophisticated contemporary décor which adds freshness to particularly simple and airy spaces. Using light tones helps increase the sense of space with the natural light bouncing off the pale surfaces, however the subtle colours need texture to provide depth and variety to the design. Layering different textures and materials such as natural elements, wood, wicker, sisal, linen as well as introducing reflective elements such as chrome, glass and mirrors brings life to the space. Try to maximise the natural light into your space, include simple lamps, consider glass or wood or add a fisherman style drop lighting for a nautical touch. Storm lanterns are also great either with candles or fairy lights inside and can be used on tables or the floor, inside or out. Comfort comes in textured fabric and layering different levels of light such as lanterns and candle light. Collect sea inspired accessories, seashells, coral, driftwood carved coastal birds, fish, pebbles, candles in vases surrounded by sand. Well chosen accessories provide the finishing touches to this style of home. Art should be considered with seascapes/sail boat prints or photos as well as sculptures of coastal birds and/or fish and a large model sail boat for the mantel piece or sideboard is ideal. Mix different pieces of furniture to reduce uniformity and formality, ideally a chunky wood dining table with wicker seating, loose covers made of cotton or linen are perfect for sofas, a weathered wooden blanket box used as a side table. Wicker baskets can store magazines or extra blankets made of soft wool or chunky knit. By mixing all these elements we can create a design scheme which provides a welcoming atmosphere of harmony and laid back chic. Having plenty of storage is essential when designing simple styles. The space should look uncluttered with discreet built in solutions. Don't put too many things on display.

INTERIORS

Using light tones helps increase the sense of space with the natural light bouncing off the pale surfaces however, the subtle colours need texture to provide depth and variety to the design. By opening up the back of the house with multiple bi-fold doors we flood the interior with beautiful natural light creating a continuous space from the inside through to the outside. Comfortable outdoor seating is essential and use outdoor lanterns and accessories such as blankets for chilly evenings. Thus the design theme should flow from the interior to the exterior. Seek inspiration from Nantucket, Hampton or Californian style homes.

POSTCARDS from the valley

Dear Mum & Dad

fro m the al place to relax It is a truly magic . I was a at es e liv tim ay ly yd ve er lo of our hectic ev s We are having a se ll. es we str is l ﬁnd it all y na pe Ho or Natio the children ma the edge of Exmo tle worried that lit they've t . bu t ing Long land s. It’s on ne er tak TV and no int is utterly breath no y er th en wi sc rd ha the d Park an has made it even sse d it once which mi t no e se can in a valley and we more special. Long land s is set e. And with dg lo r ou of ck de the site! m fro a the se eful. The d not a screen in site it’s very peac had fo ur days an 've sure We am I d ing an yth only 5 lo dges on er me ul and have ev are head ing ho tif we au w be y rro all mo we re To t e tha lo dges ar , fresh of us when I say fro m hot chocolate I can speak for all out at the , en yo u can think of ing lin ok d lo be d y an an up White Co mp will miss waking the freedom fruit, the crispes t on the hillsi de or aromatherapy bath ing of az e gr ng p ra ee a sh to through ing sto ve to roaming around also a wo od burn children have had the to d an products. There’s ening lley. us warm in the ev the Long land s va co ok on & keep s. er ow r sh can't wait heat the water fo us break and we l in all, a fabulo Al ng iti vis n around North Devo to co me back. To day we to ured rts. We don’t so re e id as se d char ming towns an land s has re. ve the site as Long Wish yo u were he really need to lea provides ich wh ” er rd La he an on site shop “T as lasagne, oked meals such delicio us ho me co re. mo ch and mu curry, chilli, stew

Dear Grandma and Gr andad, Mum said we have to write to you to tell yo u what a wicked time we are having at Long la nds. It's fab here. Our hous e has three bedrooms, m ine is in a house shaped cupboard in the loung e – it's got doors both sides an d a step ladder – like a secret hideaway – I lov e it! We've made lots of fri ends with other child ren staying here. It's great because after breakfast, we are allowed to go out and play with them . Tod ay we played football on the meadow and table tennis in the barn . Th ere is also a lake here with two rowing boats Mu m and I raced Dad an d the boys and we won! Our house is set on th e side of a hill and it' s great for climbing. We've bee n very busy; body boar din g at the beach and then we went down the sid e of a cliff in a train . Th ere is so much to do here. There's even a dinosaur museum near by. Ton ight

we are having a bbq, we've got our own place to sit and cook on the side of the hill – it's aw esome! It's really quiet here and there are no street lamps so ton ight Dad said we can stay up and see the stars as it's one of the best pla ces in the world for this. Anyway must go, I'm going on a secret stream trail with the boys – it's a really cute little walk by the stream with lit tle waterfalls and lots of pretty wild flowers th en I think we are goi ng to go and have anoth er race around the la ke in the rowing boats – Dad's a rubbish rower but luckily they've got lif e jackets here; just inca se we capsize! Can't wait to see you, but will be rea lly sad to leave here as it' s so much fun being ab le to explore (haven't even missed the iPad or TV !). See you soon Lots of love

For more information call 01271 88200 4 or email info@longla ndsdevon.co .uk www.longla ndsdevon.co .uk

FOOD

Nasreen with celebrity chef James Martin

Whipping up a storm Words Nasreen El-Mariesh

Photographs by Christopher Ison Â©

at Sea

It’s hard not to be impressed when first setting eyes on the Cookery Club on P&O’s newest and largest cruise ship Britannia. The spotless kitchen space, all gleaming stainless steel and shiny white with 12 cooking stations is complete with sunken sinks and über modern magnetic knife blocks. But these are not the only features that deserve an intake of breath. Located on the top deck, the room is designed with floor to ceiling glass panes across the entire back wall. Allowing in masses of natural light, these windows afford spectacular elevated views of whichever sea, port or landscape happens to be in sight, hands down winning the Best Cookery School View Award - if there was such a thing.

P&O Ferries are offering cookery lessons with celebrity chefs on their stunning cruise ship Britannia – time to get creative in style!

And it doesn't just look the part either. Kitted out with professional grade induction hobs, ovens and select tools of the trade, the Cookery Club is truly a state-of-the-art cooking school space. A live feed from the main demonstration area is displayed onto three flat screen televisions, ensuring that not one smidge of detail is missed.

Along with droll northerner James Martin, I was fortunate to be taught by his charming mentor, triple Michelin starred Pierre Koffman. As he demonstrated the correct technique for piping éclairs it dawned on me that professional chefs would pay a fortune to be in this position. A few hours with such experts imparts nuggets of wisdom you can imagine yourself recanting proudly at a dinner party as you serve up their signature dishes. Interestingly, 24 keen participants were given the same ingredients and recipe - yet we produced wildly varying results; James and Pierre were on hand at every step to show us where we invariably got it wrong. With the price for such fun and

Interiors aside, for fans of celebrity chefs the Cookery Club holds all the trump cards. Saturday Morning Kitchen’s James Martin, has invited lots of his chef friends to come on-board to host culinary master classes, giving passengers the chance to learn from the crème de la crème of gastronomy. These aptly

named ‘Food Heroes’ are chefs of the highest calibre and include Antonio Carluccio, Paul Rankin and the nation’s favourite Mary Berry.

inspiring master classes ranging from £100 to £200, I would have spent every afternoon with these encyclopaedic epicureans given the chance. A lucky few are able to spend more time with their Food Heroes by bagging a spot at an exclusive hosted dinner (£150pp) or shore excursion to a local food market. At the dinner, along with 13 other excited guests, you observe and quiz the chefs as they prepare your fourcourse meal. The menu is adapted daily depending on what produce is available, and what mood the chefs are in. After producing stunning courses of tender scallops with miso glaze and ox cheek braised in beer, James expressed candid enthusiasm about his latest kitchen gizmo – a fancy and expensive machine, which churned frozen Snickers into soft caramel ice-cream in seconds. It was gobbled up appreciatively by all. Equally in his element at the local food market, James was like a gourmet Pied Piper, passengers trailing behind him as he explored the colourful produce, sharing pearls of foodie wisdom and encouraging everyone to sample regional delights. You simply cannot get the same interactive experiences on dry land, and P&O have done well to cram in as much access to the chefs as possible. With limited capacity, the celebrity events sell out faster than I can scoff a canapé (vacuum quick!) but there

FOOD

are plenty of opportunities to meet the chefs and also get creative in the kitchen. The Cookery Club holds daily cooking sessions, covering Tapas and Thai food to Patisserie, a two-hour master class setting you back only £45 - less than many shore excursions. Cue reminder that all this takes place at sea, which means that these chefs are on board when you are; giving talks, signing books, having drinks at the bar or dining at the fabulous restaurants – you never know when you might spot them.

So, as well as waking up in a different Mediterranean port each day and dining like a queen, I can now recreate one of Pierre’s signature dishes, make light and airy choux pastry, know what to bring home from Barcelona’s bustling food market and have great memories (and signed cookery books!).

UPCOMING CELEBRITY CHEF CRUISES Commendatore Antonio Carluccio OBE – a much-loved Italian chef and food writer. Antonio is travelling on B523, a 14 night Spain, Monaco & Italy cruise departing October 9 with James Martin and Charlie Turnbull. Prices from £1,149 per person.

To book, visit www.pocruises.com, call 0843 374 0111 or visit your local travel agent.

The benefits of

cycling

For a great range of bikes to suit all needs visit: www.raleigh.co.uk

REDUCE STRESS GET FITTER One of the most attractive advantages of cycling for fitness is that you can combine it with commuting, getting to work earlier and fresher after an invigorating ride. You’ll also become fitter by the day without really trying and having to drag yourself to the gym. The body’s metabolic rate is not only raised during a ride but for several hours after, which means you will still be burning calories whilst sat at your desk at work.

FEEL HAPPIER SAVE THE PLANET Riding a bicycle to work instead of starting up the car is a great way to help the environment. Bicycles are the only vehicles which do not release any harmful gases into the atmosphere. It takes around five per cent of the materials and energy used to make a car, to build a bicycle. They are very efficient too – you travel around three times as fast as walking for the same amount of energy.

Apart from the increased self-esteem and confidence that getting fitter will give you, simply spending more time outside will cheer you up. This is down to the ability of sunlight to boost your levels of the feel-good hormone serotonin. Cycling offers those precious quiet moments to reflect on our thoughts and fill us with awe, appreciation or gratitude. The sense of achievement you get from riding can also boost people’s moods.

Sometimes, the one thing that keeps us off of our bicycles is the one that should be making us get on it – stress. Unfortunately, when we are too busy and feeling stressed the last thing we feel like doing is exercising. Making time to ride your bicycle during stressful and busy times isn’t just important for your physical health, but your mental health as well. Recent studies have shown that exercise can be as useful as combating stress and depression as medical intervention.

HEALTHY HEART

TRAVEL CHEAPER Car insurance, car tax, petrol, MOT, service - these are all costs that you can avoid if you travel on a bicycle instead of in a car. Public transport costs have also gone skyward and the solution hundreds of thousands are turning to for daily travel, is the bicycle. Although the initial cost of a bicycle can be quite expensive, in the long run it costs nearly 30 times less to keep bicycles in shape than it does for cars.

ENJOY THE OUTDOORS Most of us fail to fully explore the area around us and cycling is the perfect way to do this. Even if you decide to cycle in areas you usually drive by, you might be surprised by what you notice and appreciate being outside taking it all in. While driving can lose its novelty when you’re sitting in traffic day in day out, cycling continues to offer fun and freedom.

Heart disease is the numberone killer of women in this country, and two top risk factors are high blood pressure and high cholesterol. In one study, researchers had 32 women ride at a moderate to high intensity three times a week for at least half an hour. After a year, they’d lowered their blood pressure and cholesterol, as well as significantly increased their aerobic fitness. So jump on your bicycle and get pedalling!

NO PANIC PARKING Ten bicycles can be parked in the same space as one car. So when you’re on your bicycle, parking is easy. No need to try to find a car park, work out how long you’ll be and pay, then try to work out the best way to walk back into town. On a bike you ride to the destination you require, then lock the bike to something immediately outside. You’ll never have to worry about having change for a car park again.

CHARITY

A HELPING HAND

THE NSPCC – WHAT WE DO

“Abuse ruins childhood, but it can be prevented. That’s why we’re here. That’s what drives all our work, and that’s why – as long as there’s abuse – we will fight for every childhood” Sharon Copsey, NSPCC Head of Service for the South West

We help children rebuild their lives, and we find ways to prevent abuse from ruining any more. So when a child needs a helping hand, we’ll be there. When parents are finding it tough, we’ll help. When laws need to change, or governments need to do more, we won’t give up until things improve. And they will improve, because we can all play a part in the fight for every childhood. Big or small – through supporting our work, or simply believing, respecting and listening to children – there’s something each of us can do to make things better for children. Abuse changes childhood. But so can we.

NSPCC SCHOOLS SERVICE Research tells us that child abuse can remain hidden for many years. Children are suffering in silence and continuing to be at risk from perpetrators. Many young children don’t recognise their experience as abuse and often don’t know where they can go for help. Sensitively teaching children about how to recognise abuse and where to get help is vitally important. Through assemblies and smaller classroom-based workshops, delivered by volunteers, our Schools Service is helping children in the south west to understand abuse and give them the confidence to talk about it. It encourages children to recognise situations where they may need help and explains ways

Since it was first established in London in the 1880s, the NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children) has helped more than 10 million children in the UK

they can get support. The presentations and messages delivered in schools have been developed by child protection specialists and alongside children, parents, carers and teachers. For more information about the Schools Service, or for anyone interested in volunteering, visit: http://www.nspcc.org.uk/servicesand-resources/services-for-children-andfamilies/childline-school-service/

CHILDLINE ChildLine is a private and confidential service for children and young people up to the age of 19. They can contact a ChildLine counsellor about anything- no problem is too big or too small. Young people can call free on 0800 1111, have a 1-2-1 chat online or send an email.

HELPLINE Our helpline gives adults a place they can contact to get advice or share their concerns about a child, anonymously if they wish. We understand how upsetting it can be to think a child’s in danger. The helpline also offers expert support for people working with children, as does our information service on child protection and our training courses. Anyone concerned about the safety of a child can call the helpline on 0808 800 5000, by text at 88858 or by email on help@nspcc.org.uk 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Making the most of the

AUTUMN! A late Indian Summer is all that's needed to make the most of those last minute camping opportunities

At the time of writing this feature, we are mid way through September and have had, what could only be described so far, as a very disappointing summer. Here at UK Women HQ, an ideal summer is all about Al fresco living – warm balmy evenings sipping Prosecco and watching the sun go down. Camping with the kids, days out at the beach and BBQ's. The reality has been do I dress for winter or summer? Boots or flip flops, sun dress or jumper – each day is different and there have been more than a couple of occasions where the central heating has even gone on! Over the last few years, the height of warm weather has been in June and July. August has had some sun but has been largely unpredictable and very autumnal. September/October however brings us the hope of an Indian Summer. With this faint hope of warmer weather in mind, we've decided to look at how we can extend our outdoor living to hopefully make the most of a mild autumn. Camping Camping when it's gloriously hot is easy. But why just limit it to the height of summer? Camping is great fun and something that shouldn't be restricted to a couple of months per year. Granted, when the weather is cooler, more consideration should be given to what equipment is needed to still have an enjoyable trip. We've teamed up with Vango to give you the essentials for a more comfortable and pleasurable autumnal camping expedition. We took the new Vango Capri 500 6 man tent. Part of the Airbeam range. Our first time using an inflatable tent. There are a few pros and cons: The main advantage is the time it takes to inflate and deflate (about 15 minutes each way!), it is very light, easy to carry and pack away. The disappointing feature on the Vango was that for £450 worth of tent, it felt you didn't get a lot. Space is extremely tight (I would say that this is more suitable for a couple with a child rather than six people), and it lacked a few of the essentials such as fly sheets on the main door and storage pockets (there are some in the main sleeping compartments but if you've got a double air bed in there, then there's no room for anything else). Our stay was made much more pleasurable though with some of the great accessories that the team at Vango sent us to try out. The Vango Serenity Double sleeping bag is perfect for the cooler evenings – coupled with their Hi-Rise double air bed, it's almost as good as being at home!

Vango Capri 500 6 man tent The Corea Masonry BBQ from Alfresia Our children particularly liked their sleeping bags – the Vango Starwalker is great for children aged four to 10 years. It has holes for their arms, a hood and a detatchable end meaning that if needed, they can unzip the bottom of the bag and walk around. Great for chilly nights! Other luxuries which helped to make our camping experience even more pleasurable included the Vango Kraken chairs at £50 each and the Vango Bistro DLX – a kitchen shelf unit perfect for camping stoves. Last but not least, and more for convenience, the Vango 8 Person Non Stick Cook Kit – all the saucepans and cups that you will need, all packaged together in a handy holdall bag! If getting away camping doesn't float your boat but you still want to enjoy the great outdoors during the autumn months, then a solid gazebo goes a long way towards extending the outdoors. A good solid gazebo, good solid garden chairs, ambient lighting and a fire pit can help to create cosy evenings outdoors. We've also come across the ideal autumn BBQ station, the Corea Masonry BBQ from Alfresia. This is a permanent structure that not only adds a great focal point with its Mediterranean style, it's a fantastic way to bring warmth to your garden or patio. Easy to assemble (remember to make sure you are happy with the location before assembling because it's there to stay), easy to use and easy to clean. Manufactured from refractory concrete, this is a garden focal point that will make a striking permanent fixture in your garden. For further product information: www.vango.co.uk and www.alfresia.co.uk

Tinder & Tide’s ethos is to encourage everyone to love the outdoors, whether that be a night under the stars, a day by the sea or an afternoon in the garden. Tinder & Tide offer a plentiful range of tents, clothing, picnic equipment, wellies and all paraphernalia to help you enjoy all that the outdoors has to offer. So whether you’re crabbing in Norfolk, toasting marshmallows in Dorset, glamping in the Cotswolds, heading off to a festival, going down to the beach in Cornwall or simply pitching a tent in your own back garden, Tinder & Tide will help you celebrate the great outdoors in style. tinderandtide.co.uk

Look your best for the party season Slim down, lose cellulite, tighten skin and reduce wrinkles. You could be at least one dress size smaller after just 8 treatments. Feel fantastic and change your life for the better. Effortless, painfree and non-invasive using revolutionary Lipoﬁrm technology. TM

An exclusive offer for readers of UK Women: www.theslimmingrooms.co.uk/ukwomen

The Slimming Rooms Remodel your body 01202 922523 1 Springﬁeld Road, Poole BH14 0NN www.theslimmingrooms.co.uk

DEBATE

THE DEBATE

Are older mothers better mothers?

Conflicting evidence has long fuelled the discussion of whether children are better off being born to mums under or over 35 years of age

DEBATE

THE CASE FOR

THE CASE AGAINST

Despite common belief, several studies show that babies born to older mothers are just as likely, if not more, to be as healthy as those born to younger ones. The number of women in the UK giving birth in their 40s and 50s has trebled in the past decade thanks to increasing reliance on fertility treatments like egg freezing, egg donation, IVF and surrogacy.

The sad truth is, no matter how resilient they make out to be, older women just don’t have the physical strength to go through pregnancy and birth without even the slightest impediment. Miscarriage, birth defects and stillborn or low weight babies are all more likely to occur with women over 40 as well as other complications like diabetes, pre-eclampsia, foetal distress, high blood pressure, forceps delivery and caesareans. Recent research also shows that female babies born of older women have an increased chance of having future fertility problems themselves. Babies are on the whole going to be much healthier if they are born to younger mothers. In fact, research has shown that babies born to women under 25 years of age are almost twice as likely to live to 100 as those born to older women.

IVF (in vitro fertilisation) is a popular choice for older women looking to conceive, and with good reason. A recent survey from the University of Iowa found that IVF children had consistently higher IQ scores than those born naturally, and that the older the mother, the brighter the child. Although younger woman in their 20s are thought to be in fitter shape for giving birth, this largely depends on the woman’s health rather than her age. However the real work begins after the child has been born. Younger mums are often more exhausted with the challenge of bringing up a child while balancing a career but older women have a greater chance of being financially stable. Teenage pregnancy is another issue. Although they are the youngest mums you can get, it is definitely not the ideal place to bring up a family. Young girls are still in school and have their whole lives ahead of them. We should be encouraging them to focus on their future and leave childbearing for an age where they are 100 per cent sure and ready. Though lots of young mums are coping fine with parenthood on top of careers, for a child to have the best nurturing, especially in the earlier months, they need their mother’s constant attention. What older mothers lack in youth and physical ability, they more than make up for in maturity, emotional stability and wisdom. As well as this, older women may have given parenthood a lot more careful thought, whereas some younger women fall into pregnancy unplanned. While it does seem odd to go against the social norm of child bearing before 35 years, is it really so strange when we consider the life expectancy of a baby born in the west today is 100? Therefore what is wrong with them having their own baby at 40 or even 50? In fact, one in four families in the UK rely on grandparents to provide child care for several hours over the week, so if it’s okay for older couples to look after grandchildren at that age, why shouldn’t other older couples have and care for their own children?

Doctors warn that postponing childbearing until a later age has got women playing a dangerous game with Mother Nature and risking the devastation of infertility. Although there are many fertility treatments that older women turn to, they are not as successful and reliable as people assume. IVF is a process many older women opt for, costing £5,000 for each try, however there is an incredibly low chance of IVF being successful; a 20.8 per cent chance for women aged 38–39, 13.6 per cent for women aged 40–42, 5.0 per cent for women aged 43–44 and only a 1.9 per cent chance for women aged 45 plus. Women shouldn’t risk the heartbreak of failure to conceive when even if IVF does succeed it can cause all sorts of problems including ectopic pregnancies, miscarriages and ovarian hyper-stimulation syndrome. Not only this, but fertility treatments raise several ethical issues of whether it is against nature to be inducing pregnancy in women who have long since passed the designated age for childbearing. Would it not be fairer and more logical to focus treatments like IVF on younger women who are infertile due to medical reasons, rather than women who have for various reasons let the opportunity for children elude them? There is still plenty of time for younger women to balance a career, relationships and home life before entering motherhood. In today’s society it is becoming increasingly common to see young, independent and successful women handling a career and raising a family, meaning supporting children financially should not be a problem. It is also clear that a child can have a much closer relationship with a mother who is younger as they are emotionally closer and the mother can more easily relate to their child’s problems and worries. The older the mother, the more distant she may be from her child and the modern world that they’re growing up in. Younger mothers are more familiar with current schooling, the general trends of the modern youth and the era of the internet as opposed to older, more traditional mothers who may believe they know best but can struggle to relate to their child’s life decisions.

Time to prove that YOU are a good leader! Benchmark your skills to international standards and achieve a renowned qualification Working with people – a range of units including how to deal effectively with stress and conflict, manage remote workers, build excellent customer relations.

For more information, or to book an event

01202 or788277

Managing yourself and personal skills – including units that focus on assessing your own leadership performance, and developing critical thinking.

Providing direction – such as leading teams to achieve organisational goals and

enquiries@thewayahead.org.uk

objectives, and making strong and informed management decisions.

Training TODAY’s People for TOMORROW’S World!

Facilitating innovation and change – for example, build a culture of continued

Qualifications in Leadership and Management

improvement, and lead people through change.

Achieving results – such as managing for efficiency and effectiveness, and managing projects that get results.

Using resources – including managing facilities and managing information. Work with your employer or training provider to find the units that best fit your individual and organisational requirements.

We can tailor a programme for you to learn at your own pace, to fit in with your busy work schedule. www.thewayahead.org.uk

BUSINESS

Funding a

new business

One of the biggest hurdles to starting your dream business is start up costs. UK Women looks at the options

Government schemes You might be able to get help from a government-backed support scheme if you need some initial funding to test and develop your business idea. You can get government-backed support and finance for business, including: grants, finance and loans, business support (mentoring etc), funding for small and medium-sized businesses and start-ups.

Selling shares If you need more investment, you might be able to raise money to fund your growth plan by selling shares in your business. You can do this by getting family and friends to invest. However, if this isn’t enough you can look for sources of ‘equity funding’, including: ‘business angels’ (wealthy individuals who invest in start-up businesses), ‘venture capitals’ (from companies who invest large sums of money in businesses that they think will grow quickly), ‘crowdfunding’ (where a large group of people invest money in a business idea, usually via the internet), also known as ‘peer-to-peer lending’.

BUSINESS

Crowdfunding Many entrepreneurs are by-passing traditional forms of finance and turning to crowdfunding sites that enable people to pitch their ideas to a wide audience. Sites such as Seedrs and Crowdcube enable investors to buy an equity stake in businesses looking for cash. The venture gets the funding it needs, while investors hope one day to make a profit on their starting stake if the business is successful. Many businesses selling shares this way are able to offer investors SEIS tax reliefs.

The most suitable finance option for your business depends on many things, including:

How much funding you need Your current business revenue or if you're a new business Whether or not you're willing to offer personal assets as security - this can make it easier to get funding but is risky if you're not able to maintain payments Whether or not you own a business property - this can make it easier to get funding Whether or not you're willing to sell shares

Bank loan Once you can show that there’s a market for your idea, one option for funding your startup costs is getting a bank loan. You’ll need to be able to give the bank realistic cash flow forecasts and prove that you’ll be able to pay back the loan with interest. The bank might require you to provide security against your loan, in case you don’t repay. You should think carefully about how much risk you’re willing to take on before you get a loan or give any personal guarantees.

JUICING with your kids Words Elfa Thorsteinsdottir

One of the best ways to get more micronutrients from fruits and veggies into the growing body of your child, is to have freshly squeezed juices as a part of your daily family routine! Kids are usually very interested in helping out with juicing and the more involved they are the more positive they are towards drinking the juice and trying out different flavours. In my sonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s school the class owns their own juicer and every week one child is responsible for bringing in fresh ingredients that they have picked with their parents and would like to juice with their classmates. This has been a great success and so fantastic to see all the parents getting involved and the kids getting exited about juicing different things every week. This is something I would love to see other schools take up and introduce from an early age to teach children that this is a very healthy and easy way to get more nutrition into the body on daily basis. Depending on what your child is used to and if theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re new to juicing, you probably want to start with having more fruits than vegetables in the juice for a sweeter taste. Then gradually introduce more and more vegetables, changing the ratio of the juice until it mainly contains vegetables. I know many parents who have successfully, with time and patience, been able to get their kids on very green juices that contain little or no fruits to sweeten!

Apples, pears, pineapples and oranges are all amazing fruits to sweeten almost any kind of juice with. You can start with mainly fruits and add in just a little bit of veggies like for example broccoli, beetroots (which give the juice a beautiful colour), carrots, celery and leafy greens like kale and spinach. Cucumber is a wonderful unsweetened fruit (yes it is a fruit), with a mild taste that is great to use as a base for any kind of juice. If you have a very young child you might want to start with diluting the juice with some water. As grownups we often like to have ginger, turmeric and lots of fresh herbs to give the juice more edge and a stronger flavour. I find that kids like to have their juices with a milder taste, so it might be better to leave these out to begin with or use a much smaller amount than you would normally. As soon as my son started to have some solid food, I started to give him some freshly squeezed juices on a regular basis. I started with just plain carrot juice or cucumber juice and diluted it with water 50/50 to begin with. Around the age of one he was having the juices undiluted and of all varieties. Today at the age of 9 he will drink any kind of juice, and happily drinks juices with strong flavours as well.

All the recipes make about 2 cups of liquid sunshine.

Yellow Sunshine 1/2 pineapple 1 yellow bell pepper Remove the rind from the pineapple and cut everything to fit through your juicer. Juice and enjoy!

Red Sunshine 4 apples 1 medium size beetroot 1/4 lemon with the rind Remove the rind from the beetroot and cut everything to fit through your juicer. Juice and enjoy!

If you are going to buy a juicer I would recommend you to get a slow juicer, where you will get more out of your fruits and vegetables. The slo juicers will juice leafy greens, herbs and wheatgrass as well, which is very beneficial.

Green Sunshine

I highly encourage you to have juices every day for the kids and the whole family. Be creative and get the kids involved in trying out different things and mixtures, allow them to experiment freely, and who knows, they might surprise you by discovering some amazing tasting juices!

1 medium size kale leaf

I hope you have fun trying out some of these ideas with your kids.

1/2 cucumber 2 apples 1 orange 1/4 lemon with the rind

1/4 small fennel 1/2 stalk celery Remove the rind from the orange and cut everything to fit through your juicer. Juice and enjoy!

I highly encourage you to have juices every day for the kids and the whole family.

Old Thorns Manor Hotel

2015-16 Wedding Fayres Sunday 6th September

Portsmouth Marriott

Sunday 13th September

The Solent Hotel & Spa, Whiteley

Sunday 20th September

Macdonald Botley Park Hotel & Spa

Sunday 27th September

Portsmouth Guildhall

Sunday 4th October

Old Thorns Manor Hotel, Liphook

Sunday 11th October

Grand Harbour Hotel, Southampton

Sunday 18th October

The Royal Marines Museum, Southsea

Sunday 1st November

De Vere Venues New Place, Shirrell Heath

Sunday 8th November

Hilton at Ageas Bowl, Southampton

Sunday 10th January

Spinnaker Tower, Portsmouth

Sunday 17th January

The Solent Hotel & Spa, Whiteley

Sunday 24th January

Barnett Hill, Guildford

Sunday 31st January

De Vere Venues New Place, Shirrell Heath

Sunday 7th February

Chilworth Manor Hotel, Southampton

Sunday 14th February

Portsmouth Guildhall

Sunday 21st February

Old Thorns Manor Hotel, Liphook

Sunday 28th February

Royal Holloway, Egham, Surrey

Sunday 20th March

Grand Harbour Hotel, Southampton

Sunday 10th April

Macdonald Botley Park Hotel & Spa

Sunday 17th April

Macdonald Elmers Court Hotel, Lymington

Sunday 8th May

The Royal Marines Museum, Southsea

Sunday 15th May

Hilton at Ageas Bowl, Southampton

Sunday 22nd May

The Grand, Brighton

Sunday 3rd July

Cams Hall, Fareham

Sunday 17th July

Old Thorns Manor Hotel, Liphook

Sunday 4th September

Portsmouth Marriott

Sunday 11th September

The Solent Hotel & Spa, Whiteley

Sunday 18th September

Macdonald Botley Park Hotel & Spa

Sunday 25th September

Portsmouth Guildhall

Sunday 2nd October

Grand Harbour Hotel, Southampton

Sunday 9th October

Old Thorns Manor Hotel, Liphook

Sunday 16th October

The Royal Marines Museum, Southsea

Sunday 23rd October

Chilworth Manor Hotel, Southampton

Sunday 30th October

De Vere Venues New Place, Shirrell Heath

Sunday 6th November

Hilton at Ageas Bowl, Southampton

More dates being added all the time. See website for up-to-date list.

Manor Chilworth Manorl

Spinnaker Tower

Cams Hall

The Solent Hotel & Spa

De Vere New Place

Royal Holloway

Grand Harbour Hotel

01329 227437

01329 227438

www.pmnweddingfayres.co.uk

www.theweddingplans.co.uk

Inspirational woman / A life's work

Lorraine Parry, founder of Quinton House in Boscombe – a treatment centre for addiction, has built a life saving others from their demons. Quinton House is shutting its doors for good but the work that Lorraine and her team have performed has left a lifetime of gratitude A lot of us have ideas, hopes, dreams and aspirations but how many of us actually act on them and fully realise their potential? Lorraine Parry is one such woman. She left South Africa with her two children and husband some thirty years ago when Apartheid was at its peak. If she had stayed her son would have been enlisted in the army and told to shoot young black people in the bush as ‘target practice’. It was when her black home help asked Lorraine if her son would shoot her young son too that Lorraine realised the full horror of what this meant and made plans to leave.

Around 60 per cent of those treated for addiction at Quinton House have suffered some sort of abuse Arriving in England and settling into a whole new life was a big challenge for Lorraine and her family but having always had a huge interest in people and what makes them tick she put her skills to good use. She began working with psychiatric patients through Care in the Community. After a time she made the decision to branch out on her own. Securing funding to assist people was easier in that era than it is now so Lorraine and her husband bought a private house with five rooms and began their work in earnest. Lorraine discovered that there was no training in Britain for treating addiction at that time. She was horrified as it seemed too easy for just anyone to set up and get funding without any true understanding of the nature of addiction. She travelled to Hazelden – one of the most respected not-for profit drug and alcohol addiction providers, in Minnesota, to train in methods of treating addiction. She discovered through her training that a lot of people back in the UK were just being treated for the physical side of their addiction and the emotional and mental side was not being addressed. Now Lorraine understood why people who often got ‘clean’ reverted to their old ways once back in the community. Lorraine has since always based her treatment on the Bio, Psycho and Social method of treatment. All clients who visit Quinton House are treated using this method. So first they are physically detoxed and once this is completed the psychological issues behind their addiction are treated through a variety of means (all treatment is carried out residentially). Many of the clients who are addicted to alcohol or drugs have been either physically or sexually abused or both and the use of alcohol or drugs often masks the pain they constantly feel. Lorraine described how many patients expressed how they felt the first time they got drunk or tried Heroin – it was the first time that they felt ‘normal’ in their life and so the cycle of addiction began.

Once the psychological element of their addiction has been treated Quinton House works with organisations such as Alcoholics Anonymous to integrate people back into the community – this is where the social side of the addiction is treated. Often clients relapse when they go back into familiar territory with old friends – their habits are so ingrained that hanging around in their old haunting ground is enough to tip them over the edge. Quinton House has been Lorraine’s life work, not only was she responsible for setting it up initially, she was also a key player in the accreditation process that certifies addiction counsellors in this country. Sadly Quinton House is closing down after 31 years. Lorraine has fought off many challenges during her time there particularly government cuts to funding, which have made her job extremely difficult to fulfil effectively. She is now 72 and believes that she has given her all – as she says herself: ‘This job is all consuming’. So Quinton House will shut its doors forever at the end of September 2015 having seen its last patient leave on 28th August 2015. Lorraine’s life has certainly not turned out how she imagined but as the Facebook page Quinton House – End of an Era will tell you – some people feel that they would not be here if it wasn’t for Lorraine and the amazing work she and her team have performed over the last thirty years.

If you have been affected by addiction visit www.actiononaddiction.org.uk for more information.

NEW! The latest technology in hair removal

SHR PAIN FREE LASER HAIR REMOVAL is now here at Vita Skin Spa

This voucher entitles you to: £25 OFF A COURSE OF 6 SMALL OR MEDIUM AREA OR £50 OFF A COURSE OF 6 LARGE OR EXTRA LARGE AREA

Attico an emporium, packed with timeless, bespoke & eclectic gifts We spend our days hunting out individual, often quirky pieces, old, new, loved & restored, to surprise, delight & enchant Expect to discover original artwork, dramatic authentic movie posters, gorgeous re-upholstered chairs, vintage china plus a host of small imaginative gifts

Attico 21 Westbourne Arcade Westbourne Bournemouth BH4 9AY 01202 769777 atticogroup.co.uk

TRAVEL

Fairytale Venice has it all The look and feel of Venice is like something out of a fairy tale, with its narrow lantern lit streets, romantic gondola rides and its breathtaking architecture. Standing in the middle of the magnificent Piazza san Marco is an experience in itself and is said to be the heart of Venice. Here you’ll find the Torre dell'Orologio (St. Mark’s clock tower) which is of great importance being practical, historical and symbolic in the story of Venice. It displays the time of day, the dominant sign of Zodiac and the current phase of the moon. It is an extraordinarily elaborate timepiece that is a must have on your sightseeing schedule. Another must see attraction found in the square is Campanile di San Marco standing at 324 feet it accommodates 5 bells and from the top of the campanile you have a great view over Venice and the lagoon. Weather permitting, you can see as far as the Alps! At the low cost of eight euros per person to get to the top it is definitely worth the visit.

Venice is one of the most stunning Art is a huge part of Italian culture and Venice is and in the world. home to alluring some of thecities most spectacular museums Located in northeast Italy, Venice in the world such as the Museo Del Vetro (The of glass) made and the Doges' Palace also is museum beautifully up of a group located St. Mark's famously Square. However if art and of 118 in islands, known for sightseeing is just not your style, Venice has a its intricate transport system of variety of other activities to immerse yourself in interconnected canals Venice offers one of the most unique shopping experiences, from designer stores such as Louis Vuitton, Armani, Gucci and Prada to the Old Italian markets and shops. The Rialto Market is one of the most popular markets in the area, it offers up fresh produce, oils, wines and pasta. Venice features a vast amount of gift stores, but if you’re looking for a unique gift and piece of Italy to take home to family and friends Murano glass is the perfect option. Murano glass is made on the Venetian island of Murano and is available in nearly every colour you can think of! You’ll find countless items such as paperweights, ornaments, jewellery, keyrings and even furniture all carefully crafted by Italian glassmakers. When all that shopping and sightseeing gets too tiresome, relaxing on a lantern lit terrace enjoying a meal is the perfect way to spend an evening in Venice, and you won’t be short for choice on where to dine. Or if you prefer something a little bit more casual there are plenty of bakeries, cafés and of course ice cream parlours, after all Italy is home to the best ice cream in the world. If you’re a food fanatic a sweet treat to try during your stay in Venice is the Frittole made from eggs, flour, sugar, raisins and pine nuts, a real Italian delicacy. Hotels in Venice are gorgeous no matter which one you choose; you’ll always be greeted by a gorgeous canal and the Italian's vibrant and unique architecture. Hotel Moresco located right on Rio Dei Tolentini won the travellers choice award on Trip Advisor for gorgeous location, ease of access to transportation and above all the service, staff and beautifully furnished rooms decorated with old silk draperies, carved dark woods combined with contemporary furniture, with rates coming in at just under €400 per night your stay is sure to be a luxurious one. With over 1000 hotels on the island you’re guaranteed to find the perfect one to accommodate all your needs and requirements whether you are travelling alone, as a couple or in a group. Venice is a unique city break experience whether it be for a family holiday, or to immerse yourself in the sights or for a romantic weekend getaway filled with culture and indulgence. With everything there is to do in Venice you won’t go home disappointed or shy away from telling everyone back home about your journey and experiences, and with everything there is too see you are sure to leave this incredibly diverse and vibrant island short of camera storage!

TRAVEL

Art is a huge part of Italian culture and Venice is home to some of the most spectacular museums in the world such as the Museo Del Vetro (The museum of glass) and the Doges' Palace also located in St. Mark's Square. However if art and sightseeing is just not your style, Venice has a variety of other activities to immerse yourself in

To book your special offer for Venice, visit our very own travel website on www.notjusttravel/nfc especially for our UK Women readers

Launching this September

MAY 2015

Online Fashion l Beauty l Health l Interiors l News l Business l Travel

SOUTH

and much more

MAY 2015

INTERVIEW future The Apprentice star Roisin Hogan shares her plans for the GLOBAL RISING STAR Dr Sam Collins - breathing compassion into business FASHION Valiant in Violet - the shade of the season

Reach over 200,000 women from just £60.00 per month

TRAVEL New York in a weekend! HEALTH The juicing generation – the route to longevity?

– the route to longevity?

For more information call 01202 618290 or email sales@nfcpublishing.co.uk

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Would you like additional revenue?

BB UK

Yes Please!

BUSINESS BANK EXCHANGE

BBX is a complimentary currency that works in addition to core revenue, enabling businesses to sell what they haven't been able to in a less competitive marketplace

www.contempopr.co.uk

About 60 per cent of businesses experience ‘Spare Capacity’ on a regular basis in the form of vacant hotel rooms, empty restaurant tables, unsold advertising space, unfilled appointment times, slow moving or surplus stock… costing UK business owners billions of pounds a year.

their Spare Capacity to other businesses within the BBX community in exchange for BBX pounds. Accounting for this in a business is simple as one BBX pound is accounted for in the same way as one pound sterling and can be used in any of the 12 countries that the BBX community is established.

Jill at Contempo PR said: “By unlocking Spare Capacity in our business we have saved thousands of pounds. Spare Capacity for our company Contempo PR came in the form of under-utilised staff and therefore the ability to take on an extra PR client every other month."

Jill at Contempo PR has found utilising the BBX facility very simple:

BBX is an international company who work with businesses that find themselves with Spare Capacity that they would like to turn into additional revenue without discounting or eroding their core business. By adopting the BBX payment facility the business can sell

“Once I established I could handle another customer I contact my local account manager at BBX who promotes me within the community and sends me an additional client. By using BBX to sell our Spare Capacity we have seen an increase in sales, saved on costs, and improved our bottom line profitability. “We spend our BBX pounds on such things as printing, design, roller banners, business cards, accounting services,

business advice, restaurant meals and hotel stays to name but a few! But also as business owners, we can use our BBX pounds on personal purchases too, which adds value to the income from our business. “With such a large and varied database of clients using this service, it is a fantastic way to save on your cash flow and at the same time afford the extras within your business. There is such a wide variety of businesses now using BBX within the UK.”

To find out how your business can be involved in creating efficiency go to www.bbxuk.com or call 0333 400 2014.

CULTURE

Cultural

Alexander Calder (1898 - 1976) Triple Gong c.1948 Calder Foundation, New York, NY, USA Photo credit: Calder Foundation, New York / Art Resource, NY © ARS, NY and DACS, London 2015

pursuits

Alexander Calder: Performing Sculpture Tate Modern, London 11th Nov 2015 - 3rd April 2016 Photos Calder Foundation, New York / Art Resource, NY Tate Modern presents the UK’s largest ever exhibition of American sculptor, Alexander Calder (1898-1976), a radical figure who pioneered kinetic sculpture, bringing movement to static objects. Alexander Calder: Performing Sculpture will bring together around 100 works to reveal how Calder turned sculpture from a static object into continually changing work to be experienced in real time.

the principles of traditional sculpture, creating mobiles which chime and resonate.

accompanied by an illustrated catalogue presenting new research and by a programme of talks and events.

The exhibition will close with Calder’s large scale mobile Black Widow shown for the first time ever outside Brazil, demonstrating how his art in motion turned global after WWII and came to serve as a visual symbol for a new and free social order. The exhibition will be

For full details visit www.tate.org.uk.

Calder travelled to Paris in the 1920s, having originally trained as an engineer, and by 1931 he had invented the mobile, a term created by Duchamp to describe Calder’s sculptures which moved of their own accord. His dynamic works brought to life the avant-garde’s fascination with movement, and brought sculpture into the fourth dimension. Continuing Tate Modern’s acclaimed reviews of key figures in modernism, this exhibition will reveal how motion, performance and theatricality underpinned his practice. The exhibition will feature the figurative wire portraits Calder created of other artists, alongside depictions of characters related to the circus, the cabaret and other forms of popular entertainment. Following a visit to the studio of Piet Mondrian in 1930, Calder created abstract, three-dimensional, kinetic forms and suspended vividly coloured shapes in front of panels or within frames hung on the wall. Red Panel 1936, White Panel 1936 and Snake and the Cross 1936 demonstrate the artist’s continuous experimentation with forms in space and the potential for movement to inspire new sculptural possibilities. They will be shown together with a selection of other panels and open frames for the first time, illustrating this important moment in Calder’s development. Calder reinvented the possibilities of sculpture in parallel with avant-garde developments in theatre and dance. He incorporated elements of choreography and sound to fundamentally change

Alexander Calder in his Roxbury studio, 1941 Photo credit: Calder Foundation, New York / Art Resource, NY © ARS, NY and DACS, London 2015

Attractive, stylish, spacious and good to drive, Fiat has hit the jackpot again with the latest addition to the 500 family Fiat struck gold in 2007 with the launch of the 500. Its cute retro looks and enjoyable driving characteristics were an instant hit. Now Fiat has a compact crossover, the fastest growing segment in the car industry - currently dominated by cars such as the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur, MINI Countryman and Citroen C4 Cactus.

With competition like that, Fiat needs a good car and the funky 500X is just that. The 500X cleverly comes in two guises to maximise appeal - a chic ‘city’ version with front-wheel-drive and a more rugged 4×4 ‘off-roader’. The urban specification is designed to appeal to those with a ‘fun-loving, spirited, metropolitan outlook’ and it’s available in Pop, Pop Star and Lounge trim levels. The other version is for those with active adventures in mind and is available in Cross and Cross Plus specifications. I tried a city-look petrol car fitted with

the 1.4 Turbo MultiAir II engine and the range-topping 4x4 in Cross Plus trim with a 2.0-litre diesel. The diesel, mated with a 9-speed auto box, made for smooth, lazy, refined driving on country roads and faster A roads. The suspension is a little stiff, but it’s when you go off-road that it becomes obvious why. The 4x4 500X made mincemeat of the off-road course available. Fiat also claims that it’s capable of 0-62mph in 9.8 seconds, 118mph top speed and 51.4mpg. If the only time you’re likely to need fourwheel-drive is on those few days of the year when the weather turns nasty in winter, then stick with a Pop, Pop Star or Lounge specification. The 500X was a car transformed when I tried one of the ‘city’ versions fitted with the eager 1.4 petrol engine. Even though it has the same performance figures as the 2.0-litre diesel, the combination of the slick 6-speed manual gearbox and the punchy engine seemed to make progress much brisker, while economy is a claimed 47.1mpg. The ‘city’ version has more obvious 500 DNA than the ‘off-roader’. Outside there are no skid plates so it looks cuter, while inside there’s a colour-coded panel sweeping across the dash. The 4×4 is less colourful, more hard-wearing inside and significantly more expensive. The 500X is solid and well-built and most of the materials used are good quality. The leather seats are particularly comfy, it’s well designed and generously equipped, and there’s a decent amount of space and storage front and back. The basic city version is cute and cheerful, but stripes and colour-coded wing mirrors can make all the difference, so it’s worth scanning the extensive options list.

The leather seats are particularly comfy, it's well designed and generously equipped, and there's a decent amount of space and storage front and back

Attractive, stylish, spacious and good to drive, Fiat has hit the jackpot again with the latest addition to the 500 family. The 500X range starts at £14,595, rising to £25,845.

FIAT

with the X Factor Words Gareth Herincx

DID YOU KNOW? Here are a few snippets that you might find of interest... Keep warm this winter…. with Kindle Stoves Family run Kindle Stoves are expecting a very busy season this year and have added to their range of high efficiency wood and multi fuel stoves on display in their Widcombe showroom. Kindle Stoves have a wood and multi-fuel stove to suit every situation, from a modern extension to a Georgian family home and they represent world renowned brands such as Clearview, Contura and Burley. Kindle also offer a full installation service from the fireplace alteration, to Welsh slate hearths and local Bathstone fireplaces. Pop in for advice and brochures or to book a home survey. www.kindlestoves.co.uk

Stand at your Desk! Did you know that people who sit for long periods every day are at higher risk of chronic diseases, weight gain and obesity? Studies show that calorie burning and fat metabolism practically shut down when you sit for too long, which can lead to conditions like metabolic syndrome and type II diabetes.

Excessive sitting can lead to or exacerbate chronic back and neck pain. It creates tight hips, flabby glutes, soft abs and rounded shoulders. Our bodies aren’t meant to remain in any static position for hours at a time, yet our lifestyles mean we do.

Constant sitting can also make you feel sad. It’s reported that people who sit for more than seven hours a day have a 47 per cent higher risk of developing depression, than those who sit for less than four hours per day. One potential solution to this problem is the Varidesk – which is a sit/stand desk that you can easily adjust as many times a day as you like to alternate between sitting and standing. Using a standing desk between 9-5 (Mon-Fri) will burn off 300 calories extra per day, that’s an amazing 1,500 calories per work week and a staggering 78,000 calories burnt off per year! Varidesk.co.uk

Home from Home Care A not-for-profit charity and leading provider of residential and home care in the south of England, Care South offers compassionate nursing, residential and dementia care in a home-from-home atmosphere and at a realistic cost. Care South is dedicated to helping people in the community to get the best out of life, with nursing, residential and dementia care homes across Dorset, North Devon and Somerset and home care services in Somerset and Dorset. www.care-south.co.uk

Yllume Ultimate Illuminating Complex™ Skin Supplement £68 for a month’s supply These easy-to-digest supplements combined with the Yllume Ultimate Illuminating Complex™ range are clinically proven to boost the benefits of visibly brighter and fresher, younger looking skin. Reduces hyperpigmentation, age spots, liver spots, acneic scar tissue and rosacea. Replenishes skin’s radiance, rehydrates dull, dry skin and soothes and calms sun damage at a cellular level. PRODUCT REVIEW

Yllume Skin Care review Yllume is a relatively new high end skincare brand, based in London, which offers a range of skincare products and supplements. The resulting products have come about following a decade of research and development working together with the most established laboratories in Germany, UK and Japan. With the aim to bring cutting edge scientifically advanced skincare from within. PRODUCT DESCRIPTION AND CLAIMS Yllume Ultimate Illuminating Complex™ Cream, 30 ml £80 This revolutionary brightening and nourishing anti-ageing treatment is designed to even out skin tone, restore radiance and boost hydration while actively promoting the skin’s own regenerative activity. Yllume avoids all the brightening ingredients that can cause irritation, making it safe for even the most sensitive, damaged, or fine skins.

I tried the two products combined for a month to see if the hype matched the price. I found the cream very light, easily absorbed and non-greasy. It gave my skin a light lustre and sheen and definitely elevated that longed-for dewy appearance. The supplements were easy to swallow. You take two with water following meals each day. The supplements contain a blend of captivating sounding ingredients, which include Pomegranate, Bilberry extract and Vitamin C. At the end of the month trial on closer inspection I did feel that my skin looked brighter, smoother and fresher. It is a subtle thing but the combination of the two products gave me what I felt was ‘a glow’ to my skin. My skin felt softer and looked refreshed. yllume.co.uk

She Called Me Mother, Lighthouse, Poole 15/16 October, 2015, 8 pm BAFTA and Golden Globe-nominee, Cathy Tyson, stars in Michelle Inniss’ new play ‘She Called Me Mother’ at Lighthouse, Poole. The play invites the audience into the life of Evangeline Gardner, a homeless 70-year-old Afro-Caribbean woman living on the streets where she is reunited with her estranged daughter Shirley. It is written in poetic Trinidadian vernacular rarely heard on our stages and is the second production from Black Theatre Live, who are committed to touring inventive Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic theatre to venues across the country. www.lighthousepoole.co.uk

A Fabulous Girls Night Out! “You’ve never been to a show like this before - It’s new and unique in the UK! 3 Hrs of live entertainment with the chance to win amazing prizes”

SOUTHAMPTON BOTLEY PORTSMOUTH WINCHESTER BOURNEMOUTH from SEPTEMBER 2015 Check our website for dates & Tickets

www.blingoshow.uk

www.tinderandtide.co.uk â&#x20AC;˘ info@tinderandtide.co.uk We stock a wide range of fun and stylish kit for the outdoors including Joules clothing for men, women & children, Snuggle Sacs, Anorak picnic rugs and towels, outdoor toys.

Shoes for women by women Chanii B is a fresh, exciting shoe brand created by internationally-renowned shoe designer, Chantal Pilon, for women who love shoes and demand something different. Chanii B are passionate about creating shoes, boots and bags that make women look and feel amazing. The team travel the world looking for ideas and inspiration, leather and skins, colours and finishes that allow them to make beautiful, colourful, quality products. Chanii B track the latest trends and often bring new looks to the high street before big retailers. So whether you're looking for classic chic or the latest trends, visit our flagship store in Bath at 9 Milsom Place or browse our website. Our designs are all limited editions and new styles are arriving all the time. There's something for everyone at Chanii B. For more information www.chaniibshoes.com 9 Milsom Place, Bath, BA1 1BZ Tel: 01225 333693

WILTON SHOPPING VILLAGE, MINSTER STREET WILTON SP2 0BH

Our team of designers will inspire you and ensure you make the most of the space you have in your bathroom with our exclusive selection of tiles and bathroom suites.

01202 526 206 dunkleytiles.co.uk 4/10 Kemp Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH9 2PW

LOVE FASHION & SPARKLE? www.stelladot.co.uk/cathymosley SHOP… Irresistible, quality jewellery and accessories, exclusively purchased online or via in-home pop-up shops. HOST... a 'Trunk Show' - it's just like a little pop up boutique - at home! I’ll bring all the accessories and provide fun styling tips for you and your girlfriends. No pressure to buy, no glass cases - simply your own, private shopping event… spend a fun evening enjoying the latest fashion! JOIN ... Become a stylist - run your own successful, flexible, fun business! Make an income doing what you love on your terms! #dreamjob Contact me to book your trunk show today!

INDEPENDENT ST YLIST

Cathy Mosley E: cathy_durant@hotmail.co.uk l T: 07789962251

- No.1 For Mother of the Bride & Groom -

BEAUTIFUL OUTFITS FOR ALL YOUR SPECIAL OCCASIONS IN SIZES 8 TO 28 WEDDING OUTFITS l EVENING DRESS l COCKTAIL WEAR HOLIDAY SEPARATES l CRUISE WEAR School Road, Fawley Village, Southampton SO45 1EA 02380 894500 l www.charismafashions.com Open Mon-Sat 9am to 5pm. FREE parking

Credits and Contributors UK Women South Magazine is published by NFC Publishing LLP, trading as UK Women Magazine For all advertising and editorial enquiries, please contact UK Women Magazine. enquiries@ukwomenmagazine.co.uk www.womenuk.co.uk

The UK Women Magazine Team

Editor: Julie Connery | julie@nfcpublishing.co.uk Design: Ana Navarro | ana@nfcpublishing.co.uk Richard Stone | richard@8daysmedia.co.uk Advertising Sales Team: Paul Jenkins | paul@nfcpublishing.co.uk Jade Prince | jade@nfcpublishing.co.uk Terri Spencer | terri@nfcpublishing.co.uk Finance: Emma Lawes | emma@nfcpublishing.co.uk Distribution: enquiries@nfcpublishing.co.uk

Partners: Felicity Phillips | felicity@nfcpublishing.co.uk Carole Winterbourne | carole@nfcpublishing.co.uk

The magazine is distributed to a readership throughout the southern region, encompassing Dorset, Hampshire and Wiltshire, to carefully selected high-end establishments that include luxury hotels, fine dining restaurants, boutiques, health clubs, beauty salons and spas, art galleries and business offices.

CONTRIBUTORS:

NASREEN EL-MARIESH KATIE FARLEY GARETH HERINCX DANA MILLARD

LAUREN COUSTON EMILY STAFFORD SOPHIE CHALK AMY PODUVAL

WITH SPECIAL THANKS to Simon Phillips and Richard Winterbourne for their continued support.

Our final thoughts...

Facebook Funnies

UK Women South Magazine offers advertisers an exclusive target audience of professional, affluent women.

A Special Dinner A man and a woman were having dinner in a fine restaurant. Their waitress, taking another order at a table a few paces away noticed that the man was slowly sliding down his chair and under the table, with the woman acting unconcerned. The waitress watched as the man slid all the way down his chair and out of sight under the table. Still, the woman dining across from him appeared calm and unruffled, apparently unaware that her dining companion had disappeared. After the waitress finished taking the order, she came over to the table and said to the woman, "Pardon me, but I think your husband just slid under the table." The woman calmly looked up at her and replied firmly, "No, he didn't. He just walked in the door." Have you seen a funny story on Facebook that made you laugh? Send us your 'Facebook Funnies' to enquiries@ukwomenmagazine.co.uk

Disclaimer: Whilst every attempt has been made to ensure that the content of this magazine is accurate, UK Women Magazine cannot accept, and hereby

disclaims, any liability to any party to, loss or damage caused by errors or omissions, resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. All Rights reserved. No part of this magazine can be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior written permission of UK Women Magazine. All information is correct at the time of going to press. Views expressed are not necessarily those of UK Women Magazine. Every effort has been made to trace and acknowledge the copyright holders of material used in this magazine. However, if any copyright holder has been overlooked, we will be happy to make any necessary arrangements at the first opportunity. UK Women Magazine does not necessarily endorse any advertisements or opinions included within this magazine.

Everything is possible Contempo PR offers a varied range of services to help businesses of all sizes grow in their specific market segments. We can support an over stretched marketing team or we can work as your 'outsourced' marketing department. Whatever your need, no job is too big, no job is too small.

WWW.CONTEMPOPR.CO.UK

T: 01202 618290

E: CAROLE@CONTEMPOPR.CO.UK

Lymington | Christchurch t: 0044 (0) 1590 671003 e: enquiries@silverbox.uk.com www.silverbox.uk.com