Living Along The Thames March/April 2014 by Living Along theThames

Complimentary

T TM

March - April 2014 Marlow • Maidenhead • Henley • Cookham • Bourne End LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

Precious Teeth Precious Cells tooth stem cell storage service oﬀers families the opportunity of having the stem cells contained in thier children’s first teeth frozen and stored for up to 30 years. In older children healthy adult teeth, such as wisdom or molars removed prior to orthodentic treatment may also be suitable to be frozen and stored. The best tooth stem cells are found in the 20 milk teeth our children have. These stem cells have the potential to be used in a wide variety of medical treatments - for tissue and bone regeneration It’s a simple, harmless and highly eﬀective way to ensure your child’s health and protect the health of your other family members as well. If you would like more information on the importance of collecting and preserving your baby’s stem cells visit www.precious-cells. com or call 01895 367987

La Perla Clinic in Marlow Bottom, is the first dental practice locally to adopt the Precious Cells oﬀering, which fits with their ethos of oﬀering the best of everything to their patients. To

find out more about how you can preserve your children’s tooth stem cells, contact La Perla Clinic on

01628 488499 www.laperlaclinic.co.uk

PRECIOUS CELLS in assocation with La

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

Perla Clinic

as possible. Many of the offers are to be drawn before Mother’s Day, so please don’t leave it too late to apply.

Welcome to the March/April issue Welcome to our latest edition and as many of you may be aware from our last magazine we have now changed our issue dates and this is the first of those that will now be published at the start of each odd month in the calendar. Therefore, our next edition will appear at the start of May covering both May and June. What a few months we have had since the start of the year with the wettest winter on record and we have seen many dramatic scenes caused by this extreme weather across the country and locally. Many of our local towns and villages have been affected by the high level of the river and the associated floods. Some readers have provided us with their photographs of those local scenes and our cover picture shows the river around Marlow during those times. All I can say that everyone here at the magazine sends their best wishes to anyone who was affected by the flooding and we hope that we have now seen the worst of the rain and that all returns to normal soon. This edition sees quite a number of give away offers and we would urge you to look for these throughout the magazine and apply for any you take a liking to. We will draw lots for each of the offers and inform the lucky winners as soon

Here is a list of some of all our offers: • A signed colourful print of London landmarks by local artist Nicola Metcalfe • A Braun Series 7 shaver for the men • Tickets to All about Gardening and all About Dogs, as well as two full pages of offers on pages 40 and 41. Wishing you all good luck with our offers. As well as a collage of the local flooding provided by local residents we were informed, very sadly, that Colin Nicholson a caretaker at Longridge had a heart attack and passed away during the recent floods. He will be remembered as a gentleman, very kind with a great sense of humour and will be missed by all who knew him. As 2014 is the Centenary of the onset of the First World War, we have been lucky enough to have been given an insight into Maidenhead in this time by John Smith a local resident. Wishing you all a happy Mother’s Day and a happy Easter and we look forward to bringing you our next edition at the start of May. Until then, happy reading………………

Your Local Lifestyle Magazine, for the locals, owned by a local

Front Cover: Courtesy John Hollidge of Universal Sky Pictures: www.aerial-photograph.co.uk

Editor: Serena Edwards Advertising: Tel: 01628 627 488 Office@AlongTheThames.co.uk

A Vivid Titles Publication Produced by Living Along The Thames Magazines. All Rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the prior written permission of the Publisher and is protected by copyright. The views expressed in Living Along the Thames magazine are not necessarily the views of the editor/publisher. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure quality and content, the publisher cannot be held responsible for errors in articles, advertisements and photographs. Copyright © March/April 2014 Living Along the Thames 2014 ISSN 2053 - 0625

Contact us: Living Along the Thames Magazines 1 Bell Street, Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL6 1BU Tel: 01628 627 488 Mob: 07711 887107 Email: Office@AlongTheThames.co.uk

Key Contributors: Harriet Subramanian, Phil Walker Christine Chalkin, Kasia Cole, Jill Coleby, David Rhys Price, Claire Fryer, Sally Todd, Vanessa Woolley, Jacky & Mark Bloomfield, Sophie Ward, Kate Robinson, Claire Thomas Accounts: Holly Hooper Tel: 01628 947 597 Mob: 07771 883 442 Holly@hjaccounting.co.uk

View the online version and keep up to date at: www.AlongTheThames.co.uk

LIKE US: facebook.com/AlongTheThames

In this Issue 5

Food & Dining

Maidenhead in the months before the Great War - WWI

Health

Travel - Hollywood

10 Fashion Tips for Men

Hair & Beauty for SS14

Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Gift Guide

Fashion SS14

Sally at Large

Latest Books

Country Wise

Your Stars for March & April

Local Flooding 2014

Home

Garden

Win tickets to all about gardening and all about dogs

Business

Motoring

Out and About

Policing Diaries

Useful Numbers

Local Lifestyle In & around Marlow, Maidenhead, Henley, Cookham & Bourne End

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

34 42

51 Scan our QR code View the online version and keep up to date at: www.AlongTheThames.co.uk

Proud Sponsor of Along the Thames Creative Writing Prize at

T H CER A ZHO RNS IES HILL

Come and visit us at The Horns, Crazies Hill for a warm welcome. SFine Wines

S Cosy Fires

SFree WiFi

S Country Walks

SLive Music

S Dog & Child Friendly

SQuality Homemade Food

Large parties welcome - Weddings and Christenings and most other events catered for

Bring the whole family. We look forward to seeing you soon. Crazies Hill, Berkshire RG10 8LY

For all reservations call 0118 940 6222 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

The Quince Tree Stonor The Quince Tree, set in the picturesque village of Stonor, near Henley-on-Thames, is a 17th Century coaching inn which has been sensitively restored. Inside there is a Pub, Café, Private Dining Room, Farm Shop and Events Space. It is clear to see that the key focus is ‘quality’, from the moment you enter this unique venue. The building itself is a beautiful creation, with the Pub area being housed in the original brick, which somehow flows eﬀortlessly through to the modern barn-style conversion at the rear, with its architectural green oak frame and vast glass walls, flooding the Café & Shop with light. The idea behind this venture is to showcase the best traditional

and contemporary food using the finest quality ingredients from Oxfordshire, Britain and the world. Head Chef, Peter Eaton, and his team work hard to create seasonal and innovative menus using local, good quality produce making the most of the array of artisan suppliers on the doorstep. From coﬀee to afternoon tea in the Café, supper in the Pub or Private parties, The Quince Tree oﬀers it all. Enjoy a day out in the heart of the Chilterns - only a stone’s throw from Henley-on-Thames, strolling distance from Stonor Park, and with matchless cycle routes nearby – it is the perfect place to relax and replenish. You might even spot the wild deer roaming free nearby…

The Quince Tree Café Clifton Nurseries You can now experience The Quince Tree in the heart of the city as well as the countryside. The Café is situated in the award winning Clifton Nurseries – London’s oldest garden centre and

The Quince Tree, Stonor, Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, RG9 6HE 01491 639 039 6

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES home@thequincetree.com

FOR CORPORATE USE

being easily accessible from London, Oxford, Reading, Henley-on-Thames, and Heathrow – The Almshill room, Stonor, is the perfect place to meet away from the hustle and bustle of town. With delegate rates including refreshments, unlimited WiFi, AV equipment, stationery, and a team on hand for your every need – you can take the stress out of your meetings. After a hard day’s work why not relax with your colleagues over a drink or private dinner?

surely one of the most tranquil spots in the capital. Located in the fashionable Maida Vale area, you can choose from a selection of the famous homemade patisserie, savoury treats and finest teas and coﬀees, along with daily specials created in the kitchen. Enjoy the perfect day out in one of London’s hidden treasures and be inspired by the unique combination of plants & patisserie. The Quince Tree Café, Clifton Nurseries, 5a Clifton Villas, London W9 2PH 0207 432 1867 www.thequincetree.com

Retail therapy in the heart of the Chilterns

he Shop at The Quince Tree is bursting with fresh & seasonal produce, mainly sourced from local artisan suppliers. Much of the fruit and vegetable selection is handpicked nearby and provides a tempting & colourful display at the entrance of the bright & airy space. One side of the shop is taken up by a well stocked delicatessen, featuring a wide selection of cheeses & meats, as well as a range of savoury treats freshly made daily in The Quince Tree kitchen. Moving along, you will come across the famous patisserie counter which is undoubtedly a highlight of any visit. All of the bakery & patisserie products are handmade daily on-site by the in-house French Pastry team. Choose from British classics like Victoria Sponge, Eccles Cakes, and Shortbread or try one of our continental style Chocolate Opera cakes or choux buns.

If you enjoy a fine tipple, why not explore the extensive wine & liqueurs section. Wines from boutique producers are carefully hand-picked to offer exceptional value and quality at every level. The bespoke range of locally made liqueurs offers an intriguing and rewarding take on established classics. As well as the array of tempting food & drinks on offer, there is also an extensive gift range which is perfect for those unique and special present ideas. Beautifully handmade home & kitchenware, dining accessories and scented candles are just some of the captivating gifts on offer. There is also a carefully chosen selection of eyecatching, yet practical gadgets – all those ‘must have’ items you had never thought of! Luxury & bespoke hampers are available – the perfect gift all year round. Choose from a selection of high quality Quince Tree products beautifully packaged in a wooden box, or choose your own items for that personal touch. One of the team will be happy to gift wrap your bespoke hampers for you. With regular tasting days and events going on, why not pop in and enjoy some special retail therapy in this beautiful location.

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Advertising Feature

t Bianco Nero we are committed to offering a family run restaurant with traditional home cooked Italian food and providing our customers with a truly home from home Italian experience. Our dishes have been created by drawing on the wealth of experience we have within our families in running restaurants in the south of Italy and we have many generations working together in the kitchen and restaurant to bring you the best of our Italian cuisine. Our name Bianco Nero, meaning Black and White, was chosen specifically to emphasise the simplicity in how we have created the restaurant and in the dishes we lovingly prepare. This theme has been extended into the dĂŠcor of our restaurant and we are sure you would all agree when you see this that simple is beautiful. We want to ensure our menu offers something for everyone across the range of Italian cooking with classics such as Saltimbocca Alla Romana, Veal in white wine and sage sauce topped with Parma Ham, along with Scampi Umbriachi, Scampi cooked in a traditional limoncello sauce served with mushroom rice. As well as these dishes we also offer a full range of main courses, pasta dishes and stone baked pizzas, with all our sauces being homemade from recipes developed by our family over many years. For instance, if you are stuck for

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

choice of which pasta to choose from then why not try our La Bella Italia dish which offers the opportunity to have three of our pastas with three different sauces giving us a pasta tasting plate on our menu. In addition to our wonderful menu we have also created our own unique pizza, the Ciambella, a ring shaped covered pizza, served with Rocket and tomato sauce and drizzled with aged Balsamic Vinegar which has proved to be a hit with our regular customers. If you like a calzone, then you â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;ll love our Ciambella. We also offer several specials, which change on a regular basis, which are designed to complement the dishes on our menu and offer something different to our traditional offerings. We love what we do at Bianco Nero and the family are committed to providing a great experience for all our customers. We are delighted to have many of our customers coming as families and we have special offers on Sundays for the children. We want you to enjoy what we have been enjoying with our families for years and we look forward to welcoming you to our restaurant soon. For reservations call us on 01628 636 137 and check out the website www.bianco-nero.co.uk for all our events.

Classic Italian family owned and run restaurant creating dishes inspired by their Italian roots.

Bookings now being taken for Mothering Sunday 30th March Join us on one of our many theme nights, here are some: * Johnny Earl: jukebox Legends * Steve Singh: Elvis tribute * Tony Liotti: Italian classics * Michael Buble tribute * Fresh hand made pasta evening * Wine tasting * Chilli night- tempt your senses! Like us and join us on Facebook www.facebook.com/bianconero2013 @bianconero2013

Find us at Glynwood House Bridge Avenue Maidenhead SL6 1RS (the former La Conca Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Oro site)

Opening hours: Mon - Thurs: 12 - 14:30 & 18:00 - 22:00, Fri: 12 - 14:30 & 18:00 - 22:30, Sat: 18:00 - 22:30 and Sun: 13:00 - 21:00

For reservations call us on 01628 636 137 www.bianco-nero.co.uk

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Spinach and Feta Samosa’s

Makes 15 Samosa parcels The smell and taste of the filo pastry, blended in with spinach, feta cheese and the seasoning of fennel, evoque memories of a happy, healthy and action packed seafaring holiday. One which I really enjoyed and will never forget. It can be served either warmed up or at room temperature.

INGREDIENTS: • Pack of fresh filo pastry (Large)(15 sheets) • Flour and water for the samosa parcel adhesive

For the Spinach Mixture: • • • • • • • • • • •

500 Fresh spinach, or frozen spinach bricks 4 Tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves. 3 Tablespoons of olive oil 1 Dessert spoon sesame oil 2 large Spring onions chopped 3 Cloves of garlic crushed and chopped Juice of half a lemon 2 Teaspoon cinnamon 2 Teaspoon nutmeg 200g Feta cheese crumbled 2 Tablespoons grated kefalotiri or parmesan cheese • 1 Dessertspoon chopped fresh fennel or fennel seeds • Salt and black pepper for seasoning. • 2 whisked eggs

METHOD: For the Spinach Mixture: 1. Chop and rinse spinach, discarding any thick stalks.. 2. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in large saucepan, plus the dessert spoon of sesame oil , and add the chopped spinach or spinach bricks , a little salt and the lemon juice. Cook covered on a low heat for around 5 minutes ( longer for the frozen spinach bricks) and then drain spinach mixture and remove from pan. 3. Heat one tablespoon of oil and fry off the garlic and spring onions for 2-3 minutes, plus the chopped fresh fennel or fennel seeds and, and then add the spinach mix, plus the cinnamon, nutmeg, fresh mint and salt and pepper. 4. Crumble the feta cheese, and parmesan /kefalotiri add to the mix and heat for 2-3 minutes. Season with sea salt and black pepper. When feta has dissolved into the mix, add the whisked eggs, and continuously stir for 2 minutes, and set aside

METHOD: For the Samosa’s 1. Taking one sheet of filo pastry at a time, cut in a round using a dinner plate, placed on top of the pastry . Brush the round with flour and water mix, using a pastry brush. Then fold again into half moon shape. Brush again with flour and water mix, and then fold into a triangle. 2. Place a dessertspoon full of the spinach and feta mix into the filo pastry triangle pocket , and seal the ends, by pinching them with the forefinger and thumb, using a little more flour and water mix. 3. Place 4-6 parcels at a time into a deep fat fryer on 170c and fry for 4 minutes. 4. Remove from fryer and place on a rack to allow excess fat to drain off. Ideally served whilst still warm. Serve with Greek Yoghurt or a salad for a small meal

Based in Maidenhead, David is a passionate cook and writer who provides catering for local functions. He creates his own take on dishes from around the world, particularly through the use of Spices. David Rhys Price ...The ‘Spicy Chef

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AT M AC DO N A LD W I N DSO R H OTE L

CELEBRATE IN STYLE AT CALEYS – SCOTTISH STEAK CLUB With stylish décor, a relaxed atmosphere and a superb location, our Scottish Steak Club in Caleys at Macdonald Windsor Hotel is the perfect place to meet for drinks and try our tempting dishes.

Longhurst’s Marlow’s only local Family Butcher Quality & Customer Care alway come first

We carry meats for all seasons including Lamb,Game, Chicken, Beef & Pork We are happy to offer advice on which cuts to choose and how best to bring out the flavour in your cooking

DINE WITH US MIDWEEK AND RECEIVE 20% OFF YOUR TOTAL BILL Please take this voucher with you to receive this offer Terms and conditions: 20% discount applies when dining in Caleys Bar or Scottish Steak Club at Macdonald Windsor Hotel. Valid from Sunday to Thursday. Offer expires 30th November 2014, offer subject to availability, booking is recommended.

To book your table, please call 01753 483100 or visit www.caleyslounge.co.uk www.MacdonaldHotels.co.uk/Windsor Macdonald Windsor Hotel, High Street, Windsor, SL4 1LH

01628 488 373 All our meats, deli items and bread are available on line to order, including our family packs PACK 1: (1-4 persons) £25.99 per pack PACK 2: (2-4 persons) £23.99 per pack PACK 3: (3-4 persons) £21.99 per pack

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR ORDER ON-LINE VISIT

www.longhurstsofmarlow.co.uk OPEN: Mon: 8 .30- 5.30pm (only butchery closed), Tues - Fri: 8.30 - 5.30pm, Sat: 8 - 1pm, Sun: 9 - 12pm 4a Brucewood Parade, Marlow Bottom, Bucks SL7 3PE Free Local Delivery

Special Offers TAPAS: 3 for £13 or 5 for £19 from 12pm till close Monday to Thursday and Friday to Saturday from 12pm till 6pm

Cocktails: £3.95 froom 12pm till 7pm Monday to Friday Sunday Specials: Sunday Lunch 2 courses for £15.90 or 3 for £18.90 from 12pm till 6pm

Ladies Half Price: Food from the Al a Carte Menu. Every Sunday from 6pm till close

WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU SOON the tapas offer can be used in conjunction with other offers.

The New Inn Bar & Restaurant, Bath Road, A4 Knowl Hill, Berkshire RG10 9UU T: 01628 822 552 E: info@newinnknowlhill.com W: www.newinnknowlhill.com

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READER’S OFFER

We have a couple of baking sets to giveaway from www.dotcomgiftshop.com. Both sets retail for £5.95 and are only two of several different designs. A fabulous way to add some novelty to your cupcakes. Each design features 24 cupcake cases and 24 cake toppers - choose from either barber shop moustache or Vintage World Map. Send your details to Office@AlongThe Thames.co.uk by 30th April.

WHAT’S ON AT CROWNE PLAZA MARLOW EXCLUSIVE MENU TASTING EVENING 7pm Thursday, 20th March Enjoy 5 sumptuous courses, starƟng with canapés, all served with matching wines. It’s a fantasƟc opportunity to delight in delicious food teamed with knowledgeably chosen wines. £55.00 per person

MOTHERING SUNDAY 12-3pm Sunday, 30th March Treat Mum to a sumptuous 3 course lunch in Glaze Restaurant, with a bouncy castle to keep the children entertained. 3 course lunch, including a liƩle giŌ for Mum—£19.95. Under 12s = £12.95; under 3s eat FREE.

EASTER SUNDAY FAMILY FUN DAY From 11am Sunday, 20th April—3 course lunch, including Easter Egg Hunt* - £19.95; under 12s £12.95 Join us for an Easter Sunday to remember, with an Easter Egg Hunt in our extensive grounds, bouncy castle and face painƟng, with a 3 course lunch in Glaze Restaurant. Under 3s eat FREE. (*Ts & Cs apply).

W: CPMARLOW.CO.UK

T: 01628 496 860

Crowne Plaza Marlow, Fieldhouse Lane, Marlow. Buckinghamshire, SL7 1GJ. 12

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Cocktail Hour

Grovefield House

Enjoy one of these sophisticated, elegant cocktails using Tanqueray London Dry Gin (70cl £21.50, Waitrose). Its great flavour is achieved by the blend of the finest botanicals including juniper, coriander, angelica and liquorice and mixes beautifully with your choice of flavours.

Tanqueray Raspberry and Lavender fizz INGREDIENTS: 25ml Tanqueray London Dry 15ml Lavender Liqueur (Raspberry liqueur also optional) Top with Prosecco 4 x Fresh Raspberries

For Your

Picture Perfect Wedding

METHOD: Shake all ingredients together and pour into a coupette, top with prosecco and garnish with a raspberry or rose petal. (Units – 2.4)

Tanqueray Clover Club INGREDIENTS: 35ml Tanqueray London Dry 15ml Raspberry Syrup 20ml Fresh Lemon Juice Dash of Egg White

Set in its own private grounds and gardens, Grovefield House is the perfect place to start your married life together. This Edwardian country house, tucked between Burnham and Windsor, has a licence for a Civil Wedding, a dedicated suite for your wedding breakfast, a private terrace for reception drinks on summer days and 40 luxurious and contemporary styled bedrooms for you and your guests. We’re also brilliantly located close to the motorway network and hold a rosette for dining excellence. Let Stacey, our wedding coordinator, tell you about our superb packages and facilities, and work with you to create the wedding of your dreams. Call her on 01628 603131 or email

weddings.grovefield@classiclodges.co.uk

METHOD: Shake all ingredients together and strain into a martini glass, garnish with a raspberry (Units – 1.5)

Taplow Common Road, Burnham, Slough, Buckinghamshire SL1 8LR Tel: 01628 603131 www.classiclodges.co.uk Photography courtesy of: www.gleedphotography.co.uk www.grahamholtom.co.uk | www.chrisbarry.co.uk.

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GIVE EGGS A CRACK!

ost of us have had some sort of disaster when cooking eggs - too runny, too rubbery, or too difficult to extract from the bottom of the pan. But for TV chef Dean Edwards, his egg Armageddon came live on air. The former MasterChef runner-up got into a very sticky situation while showing the nation how to make a tortilla on ITV’s Lorraine show. “I was panicking a bit, because the pan that was supplied really wasn’t non-stick,” he recalls. “We had about 10 or 15 seconds where we went to recap and I had to plate the food up and make it look nice and pretty. When it came out, it looked a bit of a dog’s dinner. It tasted better than it looked!” The blush-inducing incident hasn’t put Edwards off cooking with eggs. In fact, he’s fronting British Lion eggs’ Main Meals In Minutes campaign to help make them a focal point of mealtimes. “People tend to think inside the box a bit when it comes to eggs - like scrambled eggs or fried eggs at breakfast - but there are so many possibilities. They’re affordable, versatile, and a great way of using up leftovers,” he says. The key to success, according to the Bristol-based chef, is to avoid overcooking - and invest in a decent non-stick pan. “As soon as you think they’re ready, pretty much by the time you’ve got them out of the pan, they’re overcooked. So the secret is to take them off the heat just before they’re finally cooked through. That way, they’ll finish their cooking in the pan.” Edwards was a digger driver before entering the BBC’s MasterChef competition in 2005. He came second on the show, gave up the day job, and went on to carve out a successful career as a celebrity chef. His first cookbook, Mincespiration, was published last year. Edwards, who admits he still pinches himself about his success, credits his South African grandmother, Judith, with instilling his love of cooking. “My nan used to make an egg curry, it’s one of my favourites. We couldn’t afford lots of meat and it was a way of bulking it out and adding those nutrients and protein without costing a fortune,” he says. “Food was always a big part of our lives. Our family parties always involved two or three big pots of South African stews and curries, and we were encouraged to help out at an early age.” Now Edwards, 36, hopes to instil this passion for food in his four-year-old daughter, Indie. “She’s got an adventurous palette and she loves curry, we’ll often go out for an Indian. It’s great to get kids to try new things,” he says. “I let her help me out in the kitchen. She’s more inclined to eat what we cook than if I plonked it on her plate before her.

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

“The kitchen’s like a bomb site when she cooks with me, so it’s a bit of a trade off! But it’s my great pleasure in life.” Edwards has created a range of egg recipes for the Main Meals In Minutes campaign. Here are three of them. You can find more egg recipes at http://www.eggrecipes. co.uk/mainmealsinminutes. By Jeananne Craig

ONE PAN ROSTI WITH CHORIZO AND EGGS (Serves 2)

INGREDIENTS: 4 large eggs 2 medium waxy potatoes, peeled and coarsely grated 1 onion, thinly sliced 1tbsp fresh thyme 1tbsp plain flour 1/2tsp smoked paprika 20g unsalted butter 100g cured chorizo sausage, sliced Salt and pepper METHOD: 1. Grate the potatoes and dry them a clean tea towel. Try to squeeze out any excess starchy water before placing in a bowl with the onion, thyme, paprika and flour. Season with salt and pepper. 2. Fry the chorizo for one to two minutes until it starts to release its oils. Add the butter, potato and onion and spread into a thin layer. 3. Cook on a medium heat until it starts to brown, then break up and leave to brown again. This will take about eight to 10 minutes. 4. Make four wells in the potato mixture and crack in the eggs. Continue cooking until the whites have just started to set. Place under a pre-heated grill and cook until the whites are set. 5. Garnish with some more fresh thyme, and serve.

FIERY EGG AND SPINACH CURRY

CHEATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S KEDGEREE

(Serves 4)

(Serves 2)

INGREDIENTS: 8 large eggs 1 large onion, sliced 1 500ml carton tomato passata 3 fresh tomatoes, quartered 200ml chicken or vegetable stock 150g baby spinach Fresh coriander to garnish Salt and pepper For the curry paste: 1 onion, roughly peeled and chopped 5 cloves of garlic, peeled 1 thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger, peeled 1 red chilli 1tsp cinnamon 1tbsp garam masala 1tsp fennel seeds, crushed 1tsp turmeric 2tbsp vegetable oil

INGREDIENTS: 1 skinless salmon fillet 1 onion, finely diced 2 garlic cloves, crushed Small piece of ginger, peeled and grated 1tsp garam masala 1/2tsp mustard seeds 1/2tsp turmeric 1 green chilli, deseeded and finely chopped 1 250g pack of microwave wholegrain rice, cooked 3 spring onions, finely sliced 2tbsp fresh coriander, chopped 2 large eggs 2tbsp white wine vinegar 1 lemon, quartered to serve Salt and pepper

METHOD: 1. Bring a large pan of water to a rolling boil and gently add the eggs. Cook at a simmer for seven minutes then place the eggs into a bowl of iced water to stop the cooking process. When cool enough to handle, peel them and set aside. 2. Place the curry paste ingredients in a blender along with a small dash of oil and blitz into a fine paste. 3. Fry the onion in some oil for three to four minutes. Add the curry paste and fry for a further three minutes. Add the passata, fresh tomato quarters and stock. Simmer for 10 minutes. 4. Just before serving, stir through the spinach until wilted. Season to taste and add in the halved eggs. 5. Divide between four bowls, garnish with fresh coriander and serve up with basmati rice and naan bread.

METHOD: 1. Add a splash of oil to a non-stick pan and cook the salmon for four to five minutes over a medium to high heat until nearly cooked through. Flake the salmon. 2. In a large pan, fry the onion, garlic and ginger in some olive oil for 5 minutes until soft. Add the spices, mustard seeds and chilli and cook for a further minute. 3. Add the rice and stir through, making sure the rice is well coated. Cook for three to four minutes, adding a splash of water if necessary. 4. Add the salmon, spring onion and coriander to the rice and stir. Season with salt and pepper and squeeze over the lemon juice. 5. In a deep pan, bring water up to a rolling boil, add the vinegar and crack in the eggs. Leave to cook for four to five minutes (four for a runny yolk). Remove from the water and drain any excess water on some kitchen paper. 6. Divide the kedgeree between two warm plates, top each with the poached egg and serve with a lemon wedge. LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

Advertising Feature

Photographs Courtesy Tony McConnell: www.portraitsforschools.co.uk

The Marlow Day Nursery

The Marlow Day Nursery is a family run nursery that has gained a reputation for providing the highest standards in childcare. We are open 51 weeks of the year and offer flexibility with sessions currently starting with a minimum of three half days per week. The Nursery pride itself on having a very low staff turnover with members having a variety of qualifications, a wealth of experience, flexibility and commitment to providing the highest standard of care and education. Ongoing professional development is encouraged and staff participate as a whole team with in-house training tailored to the Nursery’s needs. The Nursery operates a ‘key carer system’ which means that from day one your child will have a special person allocated to them with whom you as a whole family will develop a close working relationship. The Nursery provides a good balance of healthy meals and snacks using fresh produce all of which are cooked on the premises. The Nursery operates from three areas: The Penguins room is for babies from 3 months to approximately 18 months. • The children are given lots of choice and opportunities which we feel from experience is how very young children learn most effectively. • Comfort and routine are the most important aspects of the babies initial time with us. We aim to meet all children’s needs and ensure that they are confident in their daily routine and that parents feel secure and happy to leave their precious babies in our care.

The Dolphins room is for our toddlers from 18 months to 2.5/3 years. • The age range is flexible to ensure each child’s individual development needs are met before they progress onto the next stage of their development and the Jellyfish room. • We believe in encouraging independent learning and provide planned activities which are adult led as well as child initiated activities which follow on from something the children have identified as being of interest, along with the opportunity for spontaneous play. Jellyfish is for preschool children from three to five years • We operate from two large rooms with independent access to our enclosed garden area. • The children are prepared for their move to school by being a part of a larger group and having the flexibility to choose from a large selection of carefully selected resources. Because of the space there is the opportunity for extended periods of concentrated play. • The children also take part in a ballet class and live music session each week. We have a large main garden area with a covered classroom that children can access in all weathers. The garden has a hard area and grassed area, a digging pit, play house, shaded areas, water play and space to grow our own plants. We have two further outside spaces, one with a large sandpit big enough for the children to get in and a large area with climbing frame and space for bikes, cars and buggies.

If you would like more information on our fee structure please contact us for a brochure which details tall the options available to you.

Tel: 01628 488114 or www.marlowdaynursery.co.uk.

EASTER GIFTS: 18 - 21 April

Biker with Motorcycle

Spy with Glider

Gift Eggs for boys and girls from G Playmobil £5.99 Available: Toys R Us, John Lewis, the Playmobil Online Shop Playmobil.co.uk o.uk Native American Girl with Forest Animals

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Flower Fairy with Enchanted Tree

Wicked Ukick is the fusion of badminton and street football. The Aim is to keep Wicked UKick off the ground for as long as you can using your hands and feet. It can be played alone ca or with friends. Available from April with a Availa RRP of £7.99 www.wickedvision.co.uk www.w

The Marlow Day Nursery Childcare at its best... The Marlow Day Nursery is the result of our commitment to provide the highest standards in childcare and education. We have a reputation for providing a warm, caring and secure environment for our children. We provide parents with a uniquely individual approach based on investing in highly experienced and qualified staff who combine to create a family atmosphere.

Development We encourage our children to develop emotionally, educationally and physically by offering facilities, resources and guidance appropriate to their age and stage of development. Our provision is led by an Early Years Professional and our Key Carer system ensures that every child and their family are treated as individuals, building lasting relationships during their time with us.

‘Open Door Policy‛‛ We have always promoted an 'open door policy' with parents. Although security is essential you are welcome to visit at any time during the th day. This transparency we believe enables you to leave your children in the knowledge that they will be safe, happy and cared for.

We are a family run nursery that has gained a reputation for providing the highest standards in childcare... if you would like to know more about us then please visit our website or call to arrange a visit

Tel: 01628 488114 www.marlowdaynursery.co.uk The Marlow Day Nursery,Sandygate Road, Marlow,SL7 3AZ LIVING ALONG THE THAMES 17

Advertising Feature

www.haahoosceramics.co.uk 0118 932 1441 19 Church Street, Twyford, RG10 9DN

The Painting, Pottery and Party Centre in Twyford

Create the perfect Mothers Day Gift with us! Get a professional photograph taken at HaaHoos and have your children paint the frame to put itt in. i We’ll We ll do the rest!

HaaHoos, based in Twyford is the largest Pottery Painting and Party centre in the area. The light and airy studio is the perfect environment for painters of all ages to let loose their imagination with a range of activities. Pottery painting is the most popular but they also offer decopatch which is a fantastic activity involving paper mache objects, patterned paper and glue. The studio is also known as “the” place to hold a party. For children there is a range of party packages to suit all ages and abilities. i.e pottery painting, decopatch, or fabric painting. Extras like party food, balloons, party bags and party games can also be arranged to make your party as stress free as possible! The adults are also catered for with Pots & Pinot evenings every last Thursday of the month and fun packages for corporate and team building activities.

The photographer will be available on: Sunday 16th March (10am - 3.30pm)

Friday 21st March (2pm - 5.30pm)

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Call HaaHoos for more info and to book.

HaaHoos recently became fully licensed so adults can also enjoy a glass of something whilst being creative.

Visit HaaHoos website or call for more information on parties or the art clubs and art competition : www.haahoosceramics.co.uk T: 0118 93231441

Girls schools working to improve public exam marking It seems that every year now there is some kind of scandal over marking public exams. If your child is due to sit their GCSEs or A Levels this year, like every parent, you want their efforts rewarded fairly and you certainly don't want their chances of a university place jeopardised by sloppy marking. Well now the Girls' Schools Association and a number of fellow associations are getting together with the exam boards to investigate how to improve the quality of marking. One of the challenges is that the teachers who mark public exam scripts are currently expected to do it in their own time, often late at night after a full day's work. "If we want improvements, teachers must be supported," says Caroline Jordan who chairs the GSA's education committee. A number of GSA schools will join a pilot exercise to provide teachers with time off during the school day to mark, somewhere separate

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

to do it and time off to train. "No system will ever be one hundred per cent reliable," says Caroline "but we can do a huge amount to move things in this direction. Hopefully we will quickly start to see positive results and students will be the winners." The GSA represents the heads of independent girls' schools and has a worldwide membership. Www.gsa.uk.com.

Stagecoach Theatre Arts Building conďŹ dence through performing arts Join in the fun at Stagecoach! Stagecoach is a part-time theatre school, teaching singing, dance and drama to children aged 4 -18 years in Henley, High Wycombe and Marlow. Being a Stagecoach student is about joining in, making new friends, but most of all having fun! Along the way your child will learn skills in singing, dance and drama, which helps develop the confidence they need in later life. Stagecoach teaches children balance, voice projection, co-ordination,

flexibility, improvisation and much, much more! We also run workshops in the Easter and Summer holidays, which are open to everyone and allow children to become part of a team dedicated to creating a performance they can be proud of. There is no need to audition, and places are limited so book your place now! For further information, please contact your local principal Clare Gosling on 01494 533203

www.stagecoach.co.uk/highwycombe www.stagecoach.co.uk/henleyandmarlow Stagecoach Henley, High Wycombe and Marlow 01494 533203

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Maidenhead in the months before the Great War

The High Street in 1911

2014 sees the centenary of the start of the Great War. John Smith takes a look at what Maidenhead was like in those far-off days. Maidenhead is much smaller. It extends North from Brunel’s Great Western Railway as far as Cordwallis Street and Belmont Crescent. North of that are open fields, across which the Furze Platt and North Town settlements are visible. To the East, Bridge Avenue marks the edge of the town centre, with the exception of Bridge Street, which has shops and houses on both sides. Open fields extend Northwards from the Town Moor to Cookham. Towards the river along Bridge Road are substantial houses standing in their own grounds – Curtisfield, Ray Lodge and Oldfield Lodge. Large houses have also been built along Ray Park Avenue. To the West, Courthouse Lane (now Road) marks the extent of housing development apart from the odd large house such as Thicket Grove. But the town is growing fast, much of the growth due to the railway. Hundreds commute into London every day. Maidenhead is a thriving market town. All trades and professions are represented. Shops, hotels, the railway, nurseries, a malt kiln in East Street and two breweries provide employment, as do the large houses - which include Northtown House, Belmont House, Elindene, Moneycrower, Redriff, Boyne Grove and Craufurd Hall. Substantial villas for the middle class have been built along the Bath Road and in Marlow Road (Craufurd Rise), College Avenue and Boyn Hill Avenue. Then there is the 2-up, 2-down housing for the workers, much of it crammed into the triangle between the High Street, Queen’s Street and Grenfell Road. Garden Cottages, a Victorian social housing scheme, has been built near St Joseph’s church. (It was arguably a very early example of brutalist concrete

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

construction which, if it had survived beyond the 1960’s, would no doubt have achieved a Grade II listing.) There is much to do for recreation, including boating, the York Road cricket ground, the swimming baths in East Street, the skating rink and the new Picture Theatre (now La Roche fitness centre). There are free schools at East Street, Cookham Road (St Luke’s), Gordon Road, Castle Hill and Shoppenhanger’s Road. For the wellheeled, Cordwalles College (St Piran’s) provides boarding. There is a cottage hospital in St Luke’s Road and an isolation (smallpox) hospital in St Mark’s Road. St Mark’s is also the location of the Maidenhead Union Workhouse, which is the refuge of last resort for some 170 destitute souls, including around 50 children, the elderly and infirm, and around a dozen unfortunates categorised as “idiots”. It offers a stern regime and is, I suspect, not a happy place. In 1914 if you are able to work to keep a roof over your head, you do. (The majority of the workhouse buildings survive to this day.) Above all, Maidenhead is fashionable, as iconic as Brighton or Bath. And much of it is due to the river and the Edwardian passion for boating. Skindles, the Bear Hotel, the Riviera and the Thames Hotel are packed in the Summer as sharply-dressed boaters flock to Maidenhead. The picture of the High Street, taken in 1911, shows that there are no traffic problems in the centre of town. But there are on the river, Boulter’s Lock being gridlocked with skiffs, punts and steam launches of all sizes. It gets so bad that in 1909 an electrically-driven boat elevator is built to enable, for a few pence, small boats to by-pass the lock altogether. Boaters going upstream row towards the elevator which then carries the boat, on a moving “belt” fitted with chocks,

Skindles Hotel in 1906

Gridlock at Boulter’s Lock

up an inclined slope (still visible today to the East of the Riverside Brasserie). The boat is then gently deposited into the lock by-pass channel, enabling the party to continue its journey into Cliveden Reach.

But houses are lit by gas and oil lamps. Women cannot vote. There is no NHS. The life expectancy for men is 47. One in 4 of the population will die of TB.

What a pleasant, confident town Maidenhead is in those days. The summer of 1914 is unusually warm. In his garden at Giverny, Monet is painting water-lilies. The Tsar is at his summer palace. In England, Sir Edward Elgar is composing. It’s an age of horses and carts, domestic servants, airships, and silent movies – just 11 years after the first powered flight and 2 years after Titanic was lost. Britain is a superpower, with the largest empire in the world.

On 28th June, Archduke Franz Ferdinand will be assassinated. Five weeks later, war will be declared – optimistically dubbed the ‘war to end all wars’. British Statesman Sir Edward Grey, gazing out of his Foreign Office window at the gathering dusk will use the poignant words “The lamps are going out all over Europe. We shall not see them lit again in our life-time”. It will be the first war capable of producing death on an industrial scale. Nearly one thousand Maidenhead men will die - one in fourteen of the population. The world will never be quite the same again.

The Boat Elevator 1913

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Mind, Body & Soul To Worry or Not to Worry? Beating Anxiety.

Our brains are designed to cope with a certain amount of worry and stress to ensure we take positive actions to protect ourselves. In fact research has shown that women worry more often and more intensely than men because they are genetically programmed to see risk in a situation. Sometimes anxiety and worry take an unwelcome hold on our lives and negatively effect our decisions and behaviour. Susie, aged 31, describes her anxiety. “Sometimes I think: what have I got to worry about? I have a good work life family balance. My husband and I have enough money to pay the bills and go on holiday. I should be able to relax at the end of the day and enjoy life. I have a few big worries: how my son is coping with his exams and my mother’s ill health, but I also constantly worry about trivial things. Did I forget to say thank you to a friend (will she judge me), will my daughter be safe walking home from school (even though she did it everyday), have I forgotten to pay that bill (my husband will be cross). My list of worries seem to constantly grow until I become so stressed, I’m unable to cope with the slightest thing going wrong." Life doesn’t have to be like this. There are practical ways to manage anxiety. Start by breaking down the cause of a particular worry or anxiety. Is it about a lack of control? Or are you worried about what others might think? Is the worry based on past events or are you 'forecasting' in your mind what could happen? Ask yourself is there any truth in this worry. Some anxieties are justifiable but they still need to be placed in context. Look hard and you may find repetitive anxieties stem from other issues, such as a lack of confidence, or your life not going in the direction you hoped. To help combat anxiety, try to live in the here and now. Don’t have a list of endless things to do on paper or in your mind. Empathise with other people’s problems but don’t take them on board. Avoid negative self-talk and surround yourself with positive people. Remember that worrying doesn't solve anything, acting proactively does. Think practically. What can you do to solve a problem or reduce the anxiety it causes? Then do it. Accept you don't have control over everything. Consciously let go of certain worries and keep life in perspective. Bear in mind Dan Gardner’s wise words from, Risk - The Science and Politics of Fear. “Whatever challenges we face, it remains indisputably true that those living in the developed world are the safest, healthiest and richest humans who ever lived. We are still mortal. Sometimes we should worry…, even be afraid. But we should always remember how lucky we are to be alive now.” The views expressed here are those of the author and do not represent or constitute medical advice. If you are in any doubt or you have been diagnosed with a medical condition, always seek the advice of your medical practitioner.

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Kate Robinson.

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Advertising Feature

Obalon weight loss treatment Bushey Hospitals are one of the first hospitals in the UK to offer Obalon, a revolutionary new weight loss balloon treatment that offers a non-surgical solution to long-term and sustainable weight loss. Obalon is ideal for those who have previously been unsuccessful in losing weight or who do not meet the BMI criteria for traditional surgical weight loss procedures. Suitable for those with a BMI of 27 or over, this fully customisable, non-invasive 12 week treatment offers an average weight loss of **8kgs (1st 3lbs), with minimal impact on everyday life. Used in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle and diet, Obalon helps to reduce food and calorie consumption and modify eating behaviours to achieve enhanced results and weight loss success. Obalon is a small, discreet and lightweight balloon which sits comfortably at the top of the stomach, giving the sensation of feeling fuller, so you consume less food. Unlike other gastric balloon systems, Obalon requires no anaesthetic to place and is carried out in a 10 minute outpatient procedure by simply swallowing a small capsule the size of a large vitamin attached to a micro-catheter. Once the capsule arrives in the stomach, the patient is x-rayed to confirm its position before

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inflating the balloon contained inside the capsule. The balloon is released as the outer layer of the capsule dissolves. The balloon is then simply inflated to the size of an apple through the micro-catheter, which is then removed via the mouth.

Obalon is available at Spire Bushey Hospital, at a fixed price of £2,995 for a two balloon treatment or £1,995 for one balloon treatment. www.spirehealth.com/obalon

Patients are monitored carefully throughout their treatment period and given supporting nutrition advice by the expert team at Bushey Spire to ensure enhanced results. 30 days after the initial balloon placement, they will return for a consultation and to receive

Coeliac’s UK In our last issue we did an article on Coeliac’s but did not pass on the UK website and details. We hope you find the following UK details useful:

through Facebook (www.facebook.com/ CoeliacUK) or Twitter (twitter.com/ Coeliac_UK), or one to one through their mentoring scheme, Member2Member.

Coeliac’s UK offer a range of tools to help you manage your diet and keep up to date with the latest developments in coeliac disease.

There are many support groups available for you to visit and these can be found on the website, but we have some details of the High Wycombe group, who meet every third Monday at 10.30am at John Lewis in the cafe’ - Place to Eat. Anyone is welcome to attend and you can roll up on the day,

You can also talk to people who face the same challenges - in your local area with Local Voluntary Support Groups, online

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you do not need to book. A member of the Bucks Support Group Committee will be available and identifiable by a banner. - The next few dates are March 17th, April 21st and May 19th. If you would like any further information or to speak with someone please call 01494 796118. or visit www.coeliac.org.uk.

Your tool to help with weight loss If you feel like youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve tried every diet under the sun, yet still struggle to lose those unwanted pounds, Obalon could be for you. Obalon works by simply helping you to eat less and consume fewer calories. Our discreet and lightweight balloons sit at the top of your stomach, to give you the sensation of feeling full. This can help you to lose weight as you start to feel fuller, faster, which in turn should lead to reduced portion sizes and calorie intake.

Call 01753 665404 www.spirehealthcare.com/obalon Obalon is a temporary tool to aid weight loss. Dietary and lifestyle changes are required for long-term weight loss. Initial consultation required to assess suitability for treatment.

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Top 10 Foods for a Healthy Immune Response It’s a new year, It’s a new begging” as the song goes. Though, sadly, if one is to believe a recent survey advertised by a famous gym club, a staggering 97% of us have fallen by the way side by 21st January and forgotten all about those wonderful resolutions! So to keep up with the good work, I have compiled below what I consider to be the absolute best foods you can eat for a boost this season, although the list is certainly not exhaustive. Unpasteurised Grass -Fed Organic Milk Raw organic milk from grass-fed cows contains beneficial bacteria that prime your immune system and can reduce allergies. It is an outstanding source of vitamins, especially vitamin A, zinc, and enzymes. Whey Protein If you don’t have access to raw milk, you can use a high-quality whey protein that comes from grass-fed cows. The protein in milk is whey protein which is the liquid that separates from the curd during the production of cheese. When the liquid dries into powdered whey, the nutrients become concentrated, and it can be packaged and used in that form. Fermented Foods If you are serious about boosting your immunity, then adding traditionally fermented foods is essential such as Kefir (an ancient cultured, enzyme-rich food full of friendly microorganisms that balance your “inner ecosystem”

and strengthen immunity), miso, tempeh, pickles, sauerkraut, yogurt (watch for sugar), and olives. Also friendly bacteria have a powerful, beneficial effect on your gut’s immune system, your first line of defense against pathogens, and aid in the production of antibodies. Coconuts and Coconut Oil Excellent for your thyroid and your metabolism, coconut oil is rich in lauric acid that has the ability of lauric acid to enhance immunity. When selecting coconuts and coconut oil, make sure you choose organic ones that are unrefined, unbleached, made without heat processing or chemicals, and non-GMO. Locally Grown Organic Vegetables When you simply can’t do any better than eating a variety of fresh, organic and preferably raw vegetables for vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and enzymes they contain. Blueberries and Raspberries Blueberries and raspberries rate very high in antioxidant capacity and they are lower in sugar than many other fruits. Mushrooms Mushrooms strengthen your immune system because they are rich in protein, fiber, vitamin C, B vitamins, calcium and other minerals. They also contain powerful compounds called beta glucans, which have been long known for their immune enhancing properties Chlorella is a single-cell freshwater

algae that acts as an efficient detoxification agent. It helps you process more oxygen, cleanses your blood and promotes the growth and repair of tissues. Propolis is a bee resin and one of the most broad-spectrum antimicrobial compounds in the world, if not the broadest spectrum, according to master herbalist Donnie Yance. Green Tea and Tulsi tea Green tea have been used for thousands of years in the Ayurvedic medicine of India. Not only is this tea loaded with antioxidants, but it has multiple positive health benefits, including supporting your immune health, memory, heart health and vision. Herbs and Spices One wonderful thing about plants and herbs is that they don’t all stimulate your immune system— some modulate it, or act as a buffer. Some that deserve special mention: • Garlic: offers a triple-whammy, it’s antibacterial, antiviral and anti-fungal. Licorice: a good buffer if your immune system is over responding to the flu. • Turmeric: turmeric is 5 to 8 times stronger than vitamins C and E, • Oregano: a strong antioxidant; • Cinnamon: powerful antimicrobial agent • Cloves: its mild anesthetic benefits are useful for toothaches and sore throats; good anti-inflammatory Sophie Ward Bsc Hons, RSHom

The views expressed here are those of the author and do not represent or constitute medical advice. If you are in any doubt or you have been diagnosed with a medical condition, always seek the advice of your medical practitioner.

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READER’s OFFER Win one of two signed colourful London landmark print by Nicola Metcalfe. Including Tate Modern, a dinosaur from National History and good ol’ fashioned tea! Answer the following question: In which year did Tate Britain first open its doors to the public? Send your answer and details to Office@AlongTheThames. co.uk by 30th April for your chance to win one of these colourful posters.(T&C’s: one entry per household) Nicola lives with her two children and two chickens in Marlow and has been commissioned by Tate enterprises to create a London print exclusively available from Tate. Her proximity to the river and the fact Tate Britain and Tate Modern are directly on it, persuaded her that the Thames should be the focus of her picture. As well as enjoying illustration, Nicola loves performing Shakespeare so it is no surprise that the Globe is also a prominent feature. For more information: www. nicolametcalfedesign. weebly.com.

Maidenhead Golf Club more than a golf course

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For further information please telephone 01628 624693 or email: manager@maidenheadgolf.co.uk www.maidenheadgolf.co.uk Maidenhead Golf Club, Shoppenhangers Road, Maidenhead, Berkshire SL6 2 PZ Just a short ‘drive’ from the town centre, opposite Desborough School - easily accessible by road M4 & M40 and only a five minute walk from the local mainline railway station.

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Starry Eyed in HOLLYWOOD From dog spas to super cars, Lisa Haynes, indulges in some LA escapism. Peeping through cracks in the gargantuan wooden gate, I wobble on tiptoes trying to snap a picture with my iPhone camera. Success - a very grainy shot of a very recognisable front door. I’m outside the former home of The Osbournes in Beverly Hills, the one made famous by their MTV reality show where tiny dogs ran riot and Sharon ruled the roost. Unlike the celebrity residents of this neighbourhood who swan about in chauffeur-driven limos, I’m on two wheels pedalling past mini mansions on a Bikes and Hikes’ Movie Star Homes tour (www. bikesandhikesla.com). Behind those luxurious silk curtains and marble walls, celebrities are gearing up for The Oscars on March 2, and I’m in Tinseltown to soak up the star-studded atmosphere for a few days. As we cycle between LA’s most exclusive enclaves, I look up at the cloudless blue sky, punctuated with tall palm trees. Our tour guides point out the A-list houses, including Elton John’s 3 million Dollar condo overlooking Soho House and Marilyn Monroe’s old apartment at North Doheny Drive. I get to know one of Hollywood’s greatest icons a little better at TCL Chinese Theatre, where I step into Marilyn’s shoes - literally. My size six sandals completely cover her tiny heeled footprints and my hands engulf her dainty palms on the 1953 Gentlemen Prefer Blondes imprint, where tourists get to hold hands with their idols via concrete. This forecourt of paving stones may not have the glamour of the sparkling stars on Hollywood Boulevard’s Walk of Fame but they’re steeped in cinematic history, some scrawled with personalised messages like Will Smith’s ‘Change the world’, or Arnold Schwarzenegger’s ‘I’ll be back’. At this time of year, dermatologist to the stars, Dr Harold Lancer, is solidly booked with A-listers hoping to achieve a red carpet glow. I manage to follow in the footsteps of celebrities like Simon Cowell, Scarlett Johansson and Victoria Beckham, by visiting his practice to get clued up on bespoke multi-step skincare regimes. “Beauty hurts but ugly hurts a lot more,” Dr Lancer tells me

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

after I emerge glowing from his signature Stem Cell Facial. “Beauty isn’t just about the face, it’s from the dinner table up,” he says, clarifying, “that’s hands, arms, shoulders and decolletage.” The exclusive address is wedged between glossy Ralph Lauren and Giorgio Armani stores on Rodeo Drive, but I’m told that celebrity clients park their cars with Dr Lancer’s valet to avoid the paparazzi scrums and make a covert entrance. In buzzy West Hollywood where I’m staying, there are dedicated ‘blow-dry bars’ - no scissors in sight for trims, just smooth, bouncy tresses. Women (and men) sit with customary toy dog in lap, mobile phone in one hand, while their nails are being done on the other. Everywhere you look, there are dog spas, pooch parlours and even check-ins at Chateau Marmutt, where over-indulged pooches can slim down on dedicated doggy treadmills. For an extreme snapshot of designer pooches, super cars and It bags, I put my oversized sunglasses on to stroll down the boutiquelined Rodeo Drive. Bespoke fashion is also big business on the pristine streets of Rodeo. Practically losing my feet in the plush carpet, I meet stylist to the stars Joe Katz in Dior’s VIP suite, where designer archive pieces decorate the room and champagne and mini macaroons are served on arrival. He’s summoned at least once a day by clients who require tailored styling sessions for jet-set lifestyles and industry parties. I start mentally calculating how many Jimmy Choos I would get with Joe’s ‘Dream Closet’ options where price tags total 10,000, 50,000 or 100,000 US Dollars. “We did have a limited edition Lady Dior bag in a glass case. It sold at 16,000 US Dollars, which is pretty affordable in Beverly Hills, as well as selling fur and big coats in the height of summer,” Joe explains. “Our customers are very international so they’re looking for outfits to take them across the Fashion Week capitals like Paris, London and New York. It’s all too easy to be swept away by the LA dream and agree for just a millisecond. This is a place that twinkles by night and day, leaving you just a little starry-eyed. Now I know why big sunglasses are a necessity.

WHERE TO STAY: Mondrian Los Angeles Embrace the fantasy playground of LA by stepping through the Mondrian’s signature 30-foot high mahogany doors on Sunset Boulevard. The reception resembles an Alice In Wonderland theme with a velvet swing, mushroom-shaped concierge desk and feathered lampshades. Even giant swivelling mirrors in guest rooms double up as televisions. By day, it’s bright, light and airy and by night, it becomes sexy and glamorous with the open-air Skybar pulling in an ‘It’ crowd. Taking the indoors out, the pool’s panoramic views of the LA skyline sit behind a faux white wall complete with oversized windows and sills you can perch or pose on. Camouflaged in bright pink blooms, the outdoor hideaway ‘hut’ is the perfect place for celebrities to sip on cocktails. From 279 US Dollars per night. www. morganshotelgroup.com/mondrian/ mondrian-los-angeles The London West Hollywood Go ‘home away from home’ at The London. A fake British Bulldog sits proudly outside, and sometimes a real one plods around in reception to greet guests. For British food with an LA twist, chef Gordon Ramsay oversees all the dining experiences including Rooftop by Gordon Ramsay for food with a view. From 299 US Dollars per night. www.thelondonwesthollywood.com

WHERE TO SHOP Robertson Boulevard For a mix of independent, cool shops and big name brands, take your credit card to Robertson Boulevard where 75% of the stores are dedicated to clothing. Kitson is especially popular with celebrities - Lady Gaga has been known to shop there. www.robertsonboulevard-shop.com Rodeo Drive Best reserved for window shopping, you’ll find just about every high-end brand’s swish store at this designer mecca - think

Chanel, Dior, Fendi and Gucci. Look out for The Rodeo Drive Walk of Style featuring shiny gold plaques that celebrate the fashion industry’s finest. www.rodeodrive-bh.com

WHERE TO EAT The Ivy You can’t miss the flower and fairy light display decking out The Ivy on Robertson Boulevard. For old-school star spotting, grab a table on the colourful outdoor patio to mingle with Hollywood A-listers who are perusing the classic American and Italian menu. www.theivyrestaurants.com Urth Caffe Spot the celebrities munching on healthconscious brunches behind their big, dark sunglasses here. With five locations in LA, Urth Caffes are relaxed hangouts for hipsters to eat fresh salads and rustic pizzas on a sunny terrace but be prepared to queue for an outdoor table. www.urthcaffe.com/locations.html

WHERE TO PARTY Bootsy Bellows Expect the unexpected at this art decoinspired nightclub on West Hollywood’s Sunset Strip. Far from just thumping beats, there’s live entertainment with burlesque dancers, music acts and even dancing puppets. www.bootsybellows.com Bar Marmont Chateau Marmont is super-exclusive but you don’t need an Oscar to drink at Bar Marmont, which has its own secret side door. Enjoy the old-fashioned but chic vibe, and kick back with a cocktail in one of the booths. www.chateaumarmont.com/ barmarmont.php

TRAVEL FACTS - HOLLYWOOD Lisa Haynes flew direct with Air New Zealand (www.airnewzealand.co.uk). Daily return flights from London Heathrow to Los Angeles from ¬£489 in Economy and from ¬£1,029 in Premium Economy. For more information on West Hollywood see www.visitwesthollywood.com LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

10 fashion tips for men

ost ladies enjoy top tips to help make life a little easier, but let’s not forget about the gentlemen out there!

WEAR CLOTHES WHICH FIT The most important piece of advice is to make sure that your clothes fit! They don’t have to be tight, oversized or baggy but they should skim the shape of your body. Visit a tailor if necessary. BUY STAPLES Staples are items of clothing which are indispensable, don’t stand out on their own and you will wear them at least once a week. These include items such as jeans, chinos, shirts, polo shirts and t-shirts, a smart jacket, casual shoes, a pair of stylish leather shoes (kept in pristine condition). DON’T BUY SOMETHING JUST BECAUSE IT’S IN FASHION Just because a certain outfit is in fashion doesn’t mean it will suit you. Wear what you like and what you feel comfortable in. Buying clothes just because they are in fashion is likely to result in a wardrobe full of items you don’t wear. KEEP IT SIMPLE Always keep it simple, you don’t need to overdo it. Don’t wear more than three colours in an outfit, or anything overly shiny, sparkly or blingy. A simple, well put together look works well - try a smart shirt, a dark pair of jeans, a stylish belt and smart shoes - you could add a flashy watch to complete the look! EXPERIMENT Get out there and try new items of clothing - you might find something different you enjoy wearing! Experiment with different styles of shirts or mix and match items you already own, but remember to keep it simple and not to go over the top! PAY ATTENTION TO DETAIL Remember the small details when putting together your outfit. Such as the colour and style of your belt, the knot of your tie or even your cufflinks.

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BRAND NAMES Don’t be taken in by brand names. Before you decide to purchase an item, ask yourself if you are buying it simply because of the brand name or because you love the quality and style. Ask yourself “Would I buy this if there was no brand name/logo on it?” OWN A SUIT Own at least one suit and make sure it fits you. If you just need a suit for infrequent occasions buy a classic singlebreasted, two-button suit in black, charcoal grey or navy blue. A good tailor can make a suit fit you perfectly. DEVELOP YOUR IMAGE Your style and image is a way of communication and is worth caring for as much as your education, career, and relationships. Your image should grow and mature with you, so remember not to neglect it. Invest time in creating an improved you and find new ways of expressing who you are and what you are about through the way you dress. ASK FOR HONEST FEEDBACK Most of your friends and family aren’t going to go out of their way to tell you what looks bad. Ask someone you trust to tell you the truth and if you think they might be too nice visit a stylist! Claire Thomas.

A Gentleman’s Great British Suit and Shirtmaker, based on Savile Row, London. Using only the best fabrics, sourced from mills in England and Scotland to create exquisite bespoke suits and shirts. Our tailors can scooter to you with our ‘Savile Row by Scooter’ Service! Bespoke Suits from £1,495+vat and Shirts from £150+vat

book an appointment 020 7837 1452 visit www.henryherbert.com

Men’s Grooming We’ve put together a few essentials to keep you looking top of your game The most advanced shaver ever released by Braun – with more computing technology than NASA’s Apollo 11* – it’s ideal for the man who demands perfection. The Braun Series 7 captures more hair with every stroke providing that just-shaved feeling of smooth skin for longer. It actively manages the power of the shaving system as it reads your face and automatically adjusts

to the density of your stubble. The top model comes with Braun’s most advanced Clean&Renew™ system to date, which kills 99.9% of germs in the shaver and keeps it feeling like new everyday. Available at Boots, Amazon, Argos, larger supermarkets & other good electrical retailers. www.braun.com/uk for more information. Series 7-720: RRP £249.99 -Series 7-790cc: RRP £299.99 - with Clean & Renew

READER’s OFFER: We have one Braun Series 7-790cc with clean and renew worth £299.99 to giveaway. If you would like the chance to win this fabulous shaver, please send your details and answer the following question: Which Apollo does the Braun 7 series have more computing technology than? to Office@alongthethames.co.uk by 30th April. (Please note one entry per household)

*based on flight computer of Apollo 11

ENCLOTHED is a brand new online concept which helps men update their wardrobe with the latest fashion collections, hasslefree. Recently developed and launched by young entrepreneurs, Dana Zingher and Levi Young, ENCLOTHED is a premium online personal styling service which is aimed at solving one of life’s simple problems – a lack of time or desire to go shopping in stores or online. Offering a bespoke styling service, time-strapped yet fashion conscious men can simply input their clothing and accessory sizes, preferred style Limited Edition Player’s Edition range from Ted Baker features three essential grooming products - body spray (150ml - £4.10), body wash (200ml - £4.10) and antiperspirant deodorant (150ml - £4.10) combining subtle spices of citrus scents and woody undertones to establish an intoxicating and masculine fragrance.

Available from 20th May in Boots stores nationwide and www.boots.com

Fish Salon Soho...mini yet mighty styling products ideal for travelling Stonefish Matt Texturising Clay - If you prefer short, choppy styles, then this is the product for you. . Fishfingers Shape Defining The Close Shave Society is a new online membership service headed by young entrepreneurial duo Dane Straw and Zach Hanauer. The service offers high quality German manufactured men’s/women’s razors straight to your door on a monthly or bi-monthly basis from as little as £4 per month. At the start of the membership you’ll be sent the razor’s handle, from then on you’ll be sent only the razor blades

and preferences, then sit back and wait for a personalised trunk of six to ten items, hand-picked by an expert team of stylists, from top brands and high end boutiques, to arrive. Whether it’s for casual, business or evening attire, ENCLOTHED members can shop with free delivery, collections and the latest styles at no extra cost, this is the perfect gift for men who like to look good but don’t have the time or inclination to go shopping. Visit www.enclothed.co.uk for more information.

Wax is best suited to shorter, spikier hairstyles and will help mould, sculpt, define and shape. Fishshape Texturising Cream ideal for creating choppy, chunky and texturised styles. Fish Minis available from Boots stores nationwide, www.boots.com and www.keepmeinspired.co.uk from July: RRP £2.99 each. We have one of each of these to giveaway - please send your details to Office@AlongTheThames.co.uk by 30th April - one entry per household

(you decide the frequency) which then plug into this handle - This idea’s the first e/ of its kind in the UK - it’s a huge time/ money saver for those who want to e, keep their facial hair in tip-top shape, ry without having to hit the shops every week. For more information and to m join visit www.closeshavesociety.com LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

London is:

• Reds: Focus on the ends, go for a bright

I’m in the coolest city on the planet, it leads the way in some many creative mediums: music, film, art and of course fashion. I may be biased as I live here but I’m originally from Australia but always thought of London as the place to be, so, at the ripe old age of 20 I jumped on a plane by myself to see what all the fuss was! 20 years later and I still love it and am incredibly passionate about the city. I love what the people wear and how they wear it – that London strut is the best. Style evolves so quickly so stay on top with my tips for Spring/ Summer hair. This year we’re working on trends that tie in with catwalk looks. Ombre, dip-dye and Balayage have made themselves a permanent fixture on the catwalks as well as on the high street – I like to work to the ethos of evolving trends. To adapt this trend we are working on evolving just Balayage. We are applying all over colours in warm browns, coppers and golden blondes and using a new technique called mélange (essentially a blending of colours) where we add colour with our fingertips over the ends of the hair. This technique gives the colour a slightly translucent look; by looking at how the hair falls before you colour you can perfectly complement the shape and movement. Taking inspiration from fabrics on the catwalk, this season is all about icy shades; crisp blondes, shiny ash browns and cool coppers will be the ‘it’ hues. This season is all about moving away from the heavy ombre that’s been so popular and now it’s all about soft blended shades for 2014.

shade such as orange to nail that catwalk look.

• Brunettes: This season it’s all about muted, grungy tones as seen on the catwalks of Haider Ackermann. Make sure to use shine-enhancing products on your hair to stop it looking too matte, as although the colour is heavy you still want some contrast.

• Blondes:

I looked to Maxmara for inspiration. Using the new mélange technique but drawing more colour from the ends by adding shades such as violet, green or blue for a cooler, crisper look. Colour is a true passion in the salon. By staying on trend we create couture colours that will be perfect and easy to manage by understanding that clients are all different and every colour needs to be tailored especially for them! I truly believe that no look is complete without eyebrows and nails. Eyebrows need to suit the style and cut of the hair as they play a huge part in the overall finish of a look. Brows really do make the face, so getting the right shape for the face is crucial as it can be a really inexpensive way of highlighting your best features, This year’ eyebrows are natural full and defined (think of Cara Delevingne as your poster girl). To complete your spring/summer look, go for a popping colour on your nails. Jelly bean nails are the ‘it’ style. Keep the length short (perfect for busy mums and career women) but go all out on a bright punchy shade. www. karinejackson.co.uk

Watter Water e can ac actually wreak havoc on your ha hair’s condition. AreaH20 is an innovative new hairca haircare range which is tailored to your area’s water type (hard (hard, medium or soft water) to make your hair easier easie to style. AreaH20 acts like a magnet to lift out the mineral ions so hair cuticles lie flatter & hair becomes shinier, less flyaway & much more easy to manage. Priced individually at £9.95 or duo packs at £17.50. Available Deb Debenhams, Oxford Street, London & Argyll Street, Gl Glasgow, www.lookfantastic.com and www.AreaH20.co.uk

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

New hair colouring pigment pencils from pigm Structure. Structure Pigment Pencils Pig come in three colours - purple velvet, fashion fuchsia and blu blue cheer. They can be used on aall hair types - on wet and dry hair and aall colours will wash out with shampoo. RRP £18.95 for a pack of three. For stockists contact www. structurehair. co.uk

Hair - Waves During New York Fashion Week, Diane Von Furstenberg showcased one of the most wearable trends of the season; soft, touchable mermaid waves. Here’s how… • Prep hair with Spring Loaded Frizz-Fighting Shampoo and Spring Loaded Frizz-Fighting Conditioner as this style calls for your hair in its healthiest condition. • Run a small amount of Ultimate Wave through damp hair and dry. • Section hair into four parts and plait each section. The longer you leave plaited, the wavier the finished look. • Take the Neuro Smooth and clamp over the length of each plait to set hair. Leave to cool then un-tie, running your fingers through to separate the waves. • Spritz with Awapuhi Wild Ginger Texturizing Sea Spray for a lush finish. This is also the ideal base to perfect other textured trends from wispy up-dos to plaited details or add pretty flowers as seen at

Zac Ponsen – whichever you choose, ensure it is left soft and romantic - Sam Walters - stylist - Paul Mitchell Luxury Haircare. For stockists and prices visit www.paul-mitchell.co.uk

Alternatively, Straight off the Calvin Klein runway is a covetable look of untamed tousled locks – an effortlessly chic look that can be achieved with Surf Bomb from the latest all natural Aussie hair care range Original&Mineral. Prep the hair when its 90% dry with O&M Atonic Thickening Spritz then blast 100% dry. Take 5 large horizontal sections and curl with a medium size curling iron leave to cool Brush the hair out them layer 2 coats of surf bomb and re dry back into the hair. Shake out and go www.selfridges.com - RRP£18

Sue Davies MAFHP -VV[ /LHS[O 7YVMLZZPVUHS

Tel: 01628 634149 Mobile: 07743 314986 Z\L'Z\LKH]PLZMLL[ÄYZ[ JV \R ^^^ Z\LKH]PLZMLL[ÄYZ[ JV \R

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feetfirst

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Opening hours: Tues and Wed: 9:30 - 18:00, Thurs: 10:00-19:30, Fri: 9:30-19:00, Sat: 9:00-17:00 2 Kingswood Parade, New Road, Marlow Bottom, Bucks. SL7 3NT

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

cause lethargy. Just 2% body water loss can cause impaired performance; at 4% capacity for muscular work declines; at 6%, heat exhaustion is a risk, at 8% hallucination and at 10% circulatory collapse and heat strokes. Prolonged dehydration can cause kidney problems and impair the body’s ability to heal itself. However, it is equally important not to drink too much water, as the kidneys will not be able to keep up, so the blood becomes too dilute with lower concentrations of essential salt and minerals. In extreme cases of overconsumption, drinking too much water can be dangerous and even cause brain swelling, affecting vital functions and in rare cases, death. The key is to listen to your body, drink to quench thirst. Once you get into the habit, it becomes easier! WATER AND THE SKIN

Why is Water Good for You? We all know that water is good for us. Start on any kind of health routine and the advice will include eliminating teas and coffees in favour of simple water. But have you ever stopped to wonder why? WATER’S ROLE IN THE BODY Water is a key constituent of a healthy body, making up about two thirds of an adult’s body weight. It carries out a vital role carrying nutrients around the body within the blood and removing waste and toxins from our system. However, the body’s fluid resource is constantly depleting, as most of the chemical reactions taking place within the cells of the body need water in order to take place. In addition, water is regularly expelled through natural processes such as sweating and urination, both of which help to get rid of toxins. Therefore to keep the body working as it is designed to do, our fluid needs regularly topping up through drinking. HOW MUCH TO DRINK The European Food Safety Authority recommends a daily intake of 1.6 litres for women and 2 litres for men. That’s the equivalent of about 8 or 10 glasses respectively. This figure needs to be adjusted for a person’s size and activity levels as well as increasing in warm weather. However, very few of us manage to achieve even the minimum recommended levels. The first sign of dehydration is simple - thirst. If you feel thirsty, your body is telling you that it is already dehydrated and it is important to drink as soon as possible to replenish the fluid levels. Urine colour is also a good indication of hydration – it should be clear or light coloured – any mid mean dehydration and require immediate action – i.e. have a drink – and dark coloured urine is a sign of severe dehydration and urgent attention. Dehydration is quite a common cause of headaches and can also

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

Many patients visiting ClinicBe are already in a state of mild dehydration which is visible in the condition of their skin. Hydrating the skin is one of the first areas that the body cuts back on when fluids are in short supply. This makes the skin less elastic, less radiant, more prone to patches of dryness with more visible fine lines. It can also make it susceptible to outbreaks of acne. Patients who routinely drink insufficiently can also find the pallor or colour of their skin is affected, which may be a consequence of constipation as the body’s regular functioning is imbalanced. Dr Kubicka explains: “The first and most important part of skin hydration starts by ensuring you drink enough. Skin doctors can quite often literally see in a patient’s skin if they have not had enough to drink as it looks and feels dryer and less healthy.” “Water is best for a number of reasons and can be drunk hot if you need a warming drink. Otherwise, try warm cordials. Tea and coffee are actually counter-productive for hydration and are best avoided as much as possible.” WHAT TO DRINK Water is widely considered to be the best fluid source. It is the most natural fluid and the most chemically simple – H2O – and far better for the body than caffeinated, sugary, chemical laden or alcoholic drinks. HOWEVER, NOT ALL WATERS ARE THE SAME. If nothing else is available, then tap water is the best option – certainly better than fizzy or caffeinated drinks. It is free and readily available. However, be aware that it is not ‘pure’. According to the Environmental Working Group, there have been 315 pollutants found in America's tap water since 2004, and over half of these pollutants are completely unregulated and can legally exist in any amount. Bottled water is another option, but is not guaranteed to be any healthier for the additional cost To put this into context, it is advised to drink at least 2 glasses of water to flush out the toxins in just one cup of coffee, 17 to flush out a glass of sparkling water and 32 to neutralise the toxins in a can of coke. Dr Kubicka - www.clinicbe.com

BEAUTY BEAUT TY - SS14

Ginvera was created and centred on formulas based on traditional Asian ingredients and beauty rituals making these products, unique, niche and innovative. For availability and more information www.janiro.co.uk

Giordani Gold Voluptuos Lipstick £13.95 - perfect for a glamorous mum with 3 new shades in this soft, intense colour, hydrating lipstick. Available at www.oriflame.co.uk

Emotional Brilliance range from Lush mix and match with this versatile range of SS14 colours including ‘Lifted’ (creamy yellow eye-shadow that can also be used as a base for other colours) - £14.50 for 5g - visit www. lush.co.uk (emotional brilliance)

Holly Spierings, Creative Director at Eye of Horus: “Alternative smoky eyes will be popular using deep purples, blues and browns. 2014 will also be another year of innovative brow perfecting products and perfectly defined eyes will emerge. Liquid winged liner and double liner will still be fashionable in 2014”.

Clarins Opalescence Spring Collection Limited edition face & blush powder £30 Multi-brush cream blush (4 shades) £18 Limited eye quartet mineral palette £31 Gloss Prodige (2 shades) £17 www.clarins.co.uk

Eye of Horus offers a naturally derived, yet high-performing range of products rich in natural waxes and essential oils Jewel Amethyst Goddess Eye Pencil - www.eyeofhoruscosmetics.co.uk/

Perfect Eyelashes premium strip lashes are handmade using natural human hair and delicately crafted to create the perfect fluttery lash, in a range of four individual styles -Natural, Glam, Intense or Volume Lashes £25.00 each - available exclusively at the Perfect Eyelashes salon and online at: www. perfecteyelashesproducts.co.uk

Rainbow eyes £20 2 in 1 kit - everyone of the 18 eyeshadow shades can also be used as an eyeliner using the shadowline fluid. available www. frontcovercosmetics.com

Benecos natural beauty Baked Eyeshadow in Amazing, £6.95 bright, shimmery and perfect for creating amazing looks. Apply with adamp applicator to achieve a more dramatic look and illuminate your eyes - www.benecos.co.uk

NEW Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Nourishing Range with Nordic Berry! It smells delicious and is light enough to use in the summer, whilst still giving optimum moisturisation. The new range features the beautiful scent of the Nordic berry with hints of apple, red fruit, rose and bergamot. 75ml Nourishing Handcream £4.09 250ml Nourishing Body lotion £3.99 400ml Nourishing Body balm £3.99 For more information - www.neutrogena.co.uk

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

Motherin

30th M

Gift G Opulent Orchid gift set in travel Bag - Ted Bakerr included 50ml versions of the Orchid Range - £10 from www.boots.com and www.tedcares.co.uk

Veuve Clicquot RRP £76.99 from urban-drinks.co.uk or Wildabout have collaborated exclusively with Lindt Chocolatiers to create some very special gifts for Mother’s Day. Available: www.wildabout.co.uk

Yurbuds Inspire for Women - £25. Special twist lock technology which holds them in your ear - made of soft silicone so it doesn’t put any pressure on the nerve endings in your ear. Available from: Wiggle, John Lewis, Runners Need, Sweatshop

Volare eau de Toilette - £17.95 Elegant and exclusive, Oriflame’s recently revamped fragrance perfectly captures the true, natural scent of a freshly cut rose in a beautiful rose shaped glass bottle- at www.oriflame.co.uk

Mocks - a range of innovative rubber bber shoes available in a variety of colours lours and styles. They are waterproof, can an be washed and thus reusable. Perfect Perfecctt for f indoors and outdoors www.mocksonline.com

Made of Carpet® produce gorgeous weekend bags, handbags, tote bags and clutch bags made from Oriental Rugs of the finest quality, inspired by the unique and elegant Carpet Bags of the Victorian era. Now Mothers everywhere can bring style and Victorian chic to their outfit with an original carpet bag from www.madeofcarpet.com

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

Laura Orchant luxury silk scarves from £80 avaialble in two sizes. Available from www.lauraorchant.co.uk

ng Sunday March

Guide

r Selfridges.

Indulge Mum with an an aromatic fragrant surprise, Candelabox. The luxury monthly subscription service delivers your favourite scented candles straight to your doorstep. The selection of products received will vary each month and guarantees you at least 100 aromatic hours of burn time Available - www.candelabox.com

Victoria Green Beauty Bags - features eight stunning beauty bags designed for women who love style, prints and colour, combined with outstanding quality, value and practicality. The range, featuring four different prints – Swallows, Spot, Meadow and Daisy - is p y inspired byy the British countryside and includes a choice of sizes and styles to suit everyone - from £6 - £18. Available Ava from Debenhams

Ma Griffe by Carven Car Eau de Parfum, 50ml: £58 | Eau de Parfum, 100ml: £75 Harrods & www.harrods.com, www.ha Harvey Nichols & www.harveynichols. com, Selfridges & www.selfridges.com, Debenhams & www. debenhams.com, House of Fraser & www. houseoffraser.co.uk Maui Jim takes flight with two glamorous round sunglasses for women that are dressed up with angles that hint of butterfly wings. Having the lightness of air, new Maile (£199) and Nalani (£199) sunglasses offer an oversized style that are the epitome of refined elegance. They feature MauiPure, the world's clearest non-glass lens material and has the added benefits of being ultra-light and extremely scratch- and impact-resistant. For more information or to order these and many other styles - visit www.MauiJim.com

Makeup works is a British makeup company specializing in matt formulations suitable for the more mature skin Classic gift box would make a lovely Mothers day present as the colours are neutral so suit most - £39.95. Available - www.makeupworks.co.uk

Seed Pantry growing kits from Seed Pantry Mum and Me Flowers and Veg Seeds Starter Packs - £36.50 Mum’s Pack contains seeds and all the equipment to grow five different types of wild flowers: field poppies, yarrow, musk mallow, chamomile and wallflowers. The Me Seeds Pack lets younger gardeners grow four varieties of vegetables and herbs – sweetcorn, cress, pumpkins and sunflowers. Mum’s Pack - Wild Flower Seeds Starter Pack - £26 Mum’s Wild Flower Seeds Starter Pack contains seeds to grow wild flowers including field poppies, yarrow, musk mallow, chamomile and wallflowers. Wild Flower Seeds Box - £6.75, this box contains five packs of seeds to grow wild flowers in your garden. Available www.seedpantry.co.uk. Order by 21st March to guarantee delivery before Mother’s Day.

LIVING ALONG TH THE HE THAMES

3 39

Reader’s Offers I promise and Living Along the Thames have teamed together to offer you 3 gift promises For your opportunity to win one of these three prizes please send your details to Office@alongthethames.co.uk by 23rd March, to ensure delivery for Mother’s day - one entry per household.

I promise gift - I Promise is an innovative gift idea perfect for a personal present that can’t be found on the high street, it is the gift of a promise. Whether it’s little thoughts, more time spent together, new experiences or romantic gestures, anything can be wrapped up as a promise and delivered in this beautiful box. For more information visit www.ipromise.to

Waterhouse Young, London’s leading clinic for aesthetic and medical skin care can offer the ultimate gift of glowing rejuvenated skin. Intraceuticals Rejuvenate Infusion £200 ‘The Hollywood Secret’ is the infusion of hyaluronic acid and anti-oxidants using oxygen under light pressure. It targets the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and dramatically enhances overall hydration giving an instant lift and rejuvenation making perfect red carpet ready skin! HydraFacial £230 The most incredible facial ever! This is the latest non-invasive skin resurfacing and rejuvenating treatment, ideal for treating fine lines and wrinkles. This relaxing treatment leaves you with instant results; clearer, brighter, tighter and hydrated skin by removing dead skin cells, infusing hyaluronic acid & antioxidants into the skin and accelerating the cell renewal process

Truly, Madly, Deeply in association with the Romantics Writers’ Society - £7.99 Truly Madly Deeply is a charming and compulsive read for women of all ages. From wedding days to special anniversaries, steamy one-night encounters to everlasting love, it takes readers on an exciting romantic adventure where love really is all you need. The collection brings together 24 specially-selected short stories from best-selling authors including Adele Parks, Katie Fforde, Carole Matthews and Miranda Dickinson, as well as a selection of rising stars of contemporary women’s fiction.

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

READER’s OFFER*: For your chance to win a Hydrafacial worth £230 from Waterhouse Young, please send your name and address to Office@AlongTheThames.co.uk by 30th April. For more information or to purchase a gift card call 020 7486 3849 or visit www.waterhouseyoung.com

*The winner will be drawn at random and only one entry per household.

Reader’s Oﬀer:

Join Mills and Boon for an exclusive Mother’s Day afternoon tea in Convent Garden to celebrate the launch of Truly, Madly, Deeply.

We have a pair of tickets to this special event taking place in the very chic BB Bakery in Covent Garden on Sunday 30th March (4 - 6.30pm), where you will have the opportunity to hear exclusive readings from the book by the authors Judy Astley and Adele Parks. Also, enjoy a glass of Champagne, afternoon delights such as pastries and cakes and take away a copy of the new book. For your opportunity to win this exclusive prize please tell us who one of the other authors are, other than the ones that will be in Covent Garden on Mother’s Day. Send your entry by 23rd March to Office@AlongTheThames. co.uk. For the Runners up we have 9 copies of Truly, Madly, Deeply to give away as well! The winner will be drawn at random and only one entry per household.

READER’s OFFER Authentic Mermaid’s (award winning) range includes sumptuous glycerine soaps, salty body scrubs, bath froths and lip balms. The spa inspired range does not contain SLSs or SLEs, is Paraben Free, without alcohols, without synthetic fragrances or unnecessary colourings or chemicals. These products are kind to the skin and to the environment and are particularly suited to women who have developed a more sensitive skin but don’t want to lose the feeling of pampering and luxury with their beauty products. Living Along the Thames have teamed up with Authentic Mermaid for an opportunity to win a range of products including a lip balm, a glycerine soap and a face scrub. Plus runners up will have the opportunity to win one of 25 pots of luscious lip balm.

For your chance to win, please answer the following question by visiting www. authenticmermaid. co.uk and following the competition link to enter. The Authentic Mermaid uses Honey from Brightwell-Cum-Sotwell village in its products. Which kind of Oxfordshire honey is it? (a) Spring Set (b) Summer Set (c) Mixed season Full name, address, contact telephone number and email address will be required. Closing date is April 30th 2014.

READER’s OFFER Catherine Green and Living Along The Thames have teamed together to give you the chance to win a mug (£10 - bone china) and notebook (£7.50 - 148cm x 148cm with 70 pages of white bond paper). Catherine Green products are handcrafted in West Yookshire and the designs are inspired from the buildings and the flowers in the local area. Send your details to Office@AlongTheThames.co.uk by 30th April.

Your first ever Mother’s Day is always a special one, so to celebrate Living Along The Thames and Bravado Designs, Bibee dresses, Thrupenny Bits and Crown Chewels have put together the following package for you to win. Maternity and nursing lingerie doesn’t have to be boring, Bravado’s gorgeous Sublime Nursing bra and matching briefs are simply stunning and will make any mum feel fabulous! They are offering the lucky winner of this competition their very own set worth £54 - www.bravadodesigns.com Bibee Dresses is a new and stylish mix and match collection of maternity and breastfeeding dresses designed by a mum for mums! One core dress sits under the bust, and is then accessorised by buttoning on a Bibee Dress Front. Mums can change their look instantly by buttoning on another top or adding a long-sleeved t-shirt. They eir are offering one lucky winner a dress of their ont choice, a long sleeved t-shirt and a Dress Front ew worth £200 – the ultimate package for a new mum! www.bibeedresses.co.uk *excludes Limited Edition Bibee Dress Fronts*

Sometimes mums need something just a little bit pretty to brighten up their day, and that’s exactly what this gorgeous vintage print breastfeeding cushion from Thrupenny Bits does. s. Mums can settle baby on this beautiful pillow as they feed, and d once breastfeeding is over, they can simply remove the cushion on from its lining and use it as a bag! What a genius idea. From £33 33 www.thrupennybits.co.uk

Crown Chewels is a brand new jewellery brand for both mum and baby. Each necklace has been cleverly designed to ensure it’s not only beautiful but suitable for baby to chew on! Mums will know exactly how difficult it is to wear jewels around their little one, but now they can relax and accessorise. The Eleanor is Crown Chewels newest design and is guaranteed to provide mums with a gorgeous, statement necklace that will compliment any outfit. With natural and unfinished white and grey wooden nuggets, an indigo blue teether and all delicately placed on a hand braided macramé cord, Eleanor is sure to be a hit! £55 www.crownchewels.co.uk

For your chance to win this fabulous package of prizes, please send your details to Office@AlongTheThames. co.uk by 23rd March 2014, including, name and address (one entry per household) LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

The New Direction It’s time to say goodbye to the winter chill, shed those cosy layers of coats and jumpers and welcome the new season. Spring has arrived! We round up the hottest trends of Spring/Summer 2014 to help you with your wardrobe choices. Whatever route you take remember that fashion is about having fun and looking gorgeous! Flower power Flower prints are always present again this year but the blooms are brighter, bigger and more lush the ever. It’s a perfect trend to follow if you like “sweet and pretty” but don’t worry if “strong and

fierce” is what you are looking for. There is plenty to choose from as this seasons flower themes lean towards avant-garde. Summer black It’s official. Finally it’s OK to wear black in summer. Great news because se as

we all know, black is a very reliable wardrobe staple and we simply need eed it. Stylish and elegant, the black should become your best friend this season. ason. Shine on Although traditionally perceived as an evening trend, shiny fabrics are very much present in day-wear this summer. It seems that more is more this time. Take some inspirations from designers’ catwalks and treat yourself to a stunning bomber jacket or a full skirt, or simply update your summer look with shiny accessories. Art Pop This season brings a great collaboration between fashion and art.. Brush strokes, bold colours, abstract graffiti – all found the place on thee high

street and will undoubtedly become the trend that turns heads. Sugary Sweet

This is a great alternative for those who don’t do “big and bold”. The spring catwalks were overwhelmed with sweet, pastel tones with candy pink leading the way. Worn top-to-toe or mixed with patterned textures this trend is perfect for a summer day or night.. The best of the rest

SLace SDenim SSlogans SPleats

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1. Frank Lyman long lace dress - www. swishboutique.co.uk 2. No 1995, coral twin - Swish Collection knitwear www.swishboutique.co.uk 3. Semper pleated dress - www.swishboutique. co.uk 4. Wooden bangle - tribal accessories , warrior bracelet from Branch - www.swishboutique.co.uk 5. Floral shirt by Lindi from Pizazz - www. pizazzonline.co.uk

6. Frank Lyman summer jersey black dress - www. swishboutique.co.uk 7. High rise waist Jeans from Pizazz at £59.99 in Black, Denim, White & Came - www.pizazzonline. co.uk 8. T-Shirt by Marble @ £22.50 from Pizazz - www. pizazzonline.co.uk 9. Milano shirt - www.swishboutique.co.uk 10. Eden Rock jersey top -www.swishboutique.co.uk

Spring jackets are your answer to transitional dressing. Spring jackets are the sartorial solution to changeable weather conditions. Make sure you've got a solution to any forecast with these perfect in-between season layers, guaranteed to put a spring in your step. The high street favourites have lead with floral themes, even down to the rain macs. . Switch your colour palette to pastels to make sure you're feeling brighter instantly. Indulge in sweet baby blues, cool coral colours and gorgeous light pink hues to step up your overcoat collection.

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1. Pink reversible raincoat with hood/ collar Reduced £159 now £99, Pizazz - www.pizazzonline.co.uk 2. Jersey lined coat by Libra, Pizazz.- www. ww. pizazzonline.co.uk 3. Fun rain jacket with removable hood by Lindi,Pizazz - www.pizazzonline.co.ukk 4. Silver 3 button coat by Gold at Pizazzz - www. www pizazzonline.co.uk 5. Savida French Trench in blue, £50 - www.dunnesstores.com 6. Orange trench, £59 - www.daxon.co.uk 7. Slink Ice Blue raincoat, £225 - www.slinkboutique.com

7 Flamboyance, Flair, ir, Glamour Glamour azz! - they’re all here at Piza Pizazz! Pay us a visit and see our fantastic ranges including all the sought after labels. 27 The Parade, Bourne End, Bucks. SL8 5SB tel: 01628 522590 email: enquiries@pizazzshop.co.uk web: www.pizazzonline.co.uk LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

Can’t run, won’t run… or will I? This year I made a resolution to learn to run. Well when I say learn, I mean train myself to be able to run 5K without stopping. When I say run, I mean break out of a walk and move fast enough to make me gasp for breath due to exercise, and not because I am talking too much. Running has never been my thing. Neither has exercise in general come to think of it. Heck, I was still in a pushchair at the age of 5! My mum had to sell it to get me to walk. I went through school hating P.E; no sport inspired me. I was the kid who never got picked for a team. At school my games teacher did nothing to encourage me and declared that because I was a swimmer, my muscles had developed differently and I would never really do well at running. I have dined out on this information ever since and used it as my standard excuse as to why I simply cannot run. I have no idea if what she said is true, or if it has ever been scientifically proven, and frankly until now, nor have I cared. Of course I have pulled many other excuses out of the bag since: I am too overweight. When do you ever see overweight people running along the road? Surely it can’t be good for my heart and lungs running with this excess weight? My boobs are too big. It is one serious over the shoulder boulder holder that’s needed to strap these sisters down! I am flat footed. No amount of sports

LIVING IVIN IN NG A ALONG LO LON L ON O NG T THE HE H E TH T THA THAMES HAM HA MES ES E S

shoe research and engineering will produce training shoes that provide the right support for my hobbit like planks. Surely my knees will suffer? My thighs are too big. The amount of chub rub going on down there is enough to cause friction burns, if not set my knickers alight. My pelvic floor isn’t what it used to be! The less said about the consequences of this the better. My bottom wobbles. It surely must look far worse to the onlooker than how it feels, and it feels disgusting. I wasn’t called jelly baby at school for nothing. Running makes you look older. The constant pounding can make your skin sag. Seriously, at the wrong side of 40 I do not need any acceleration of this on any area of my body, least of all my face. Running is bad for you. It must be true I have read it in the papers. And when a gym instructor rains on your parade after running your first ever 5K in 45 minutes by announcing they could walk it faster, your motivation to do it again has run away faster than Usain Bolt So what made me throw caution to the wind and sign up with my local running club? It doesn’t necessarily require special clothing, instruction, equipment, costly gym membership, large indoor space or technical knowledge. (OK so I may have some of the above including a super attractive head torch!) I like the flexibility

of being able to fit it in to any lifestyle. I can do it alone or with friends, inside or outside. It’s like the Martini of exercise, anytime, any place, anywhere. So as I watch people run past me in the street and as I pass them in my car feeling like a lazy slob, (like one of those people from the film WALL-E), I no longer mock and ridicule them. I no longer suggest they should get a life. I no longer scrutinise their shape. I no longer chastise them to hide my guilt. No, a little piece of me wishes I were out there with them, just doing it. And so after over 40 years of fighting it and kidding myself with a myriad of excuses I have decided to give it a go. So if you see me out and about pounding the streets or teaching the treadmill a thing or two, give me a wave but don’t expect me to speak as I haven’t quite mastered the art of doing both just yet! Sally Todd

the curvaceous geneticist must first pass the ‘twin test’ – a honey trap that would challenge even the most committed of suitors

Bedrocking by Sas Dijk An evolutionary hunt for the perfect partner Lisa-Lina has been friends with the twins, Kelly and Joline, since school, but they couldn’t be more different; the twins thrive on passion and devour men together for fun; Lisa-Lina is a Christian scientist, saving herself for Mr Right. In fact, any man vying for the attention of

The Forgotten War by Howard Sargent A truly gripping fantasy novel in the tradition of J.R.R Tolkien and Stephen R. Donaldson After Ceriana Hartfield, the conceited daughter of one of the most powerful families in the Duchy of Tenaren, discovers a strange stone washed up on the beach, she begins to suffer a disturbing metamorphosis. Her body intermittently glows an eerie translucent red and her nights are haunted by nightmarish visions. Ceriana’s

The Sweetness of Liberty James by Janey Lewis When love is in the air, life tastes sweeter The daughter of a Michelin-starred restaurateur and a celebrity TV chef, Liberty James is born into the world of fine food. But when her father announces he is leaving, the shock causes her to lose her sense of taste and smell. Sweet-natured Liberty believes the recipe for her own happiness is making others happy, and she sets about gathering the ingredients for the perfect life. She does

Enjoy one of our Latest Releases:

While on a skiing holiday, the three girls discover buried Neanderthal remains, and Lisa-Lina’s dual quests for scientific discovery and the perfect man are brought together. Could it be that modern man hasn’t evolved beyond the level of Neanderthal? If so, her ideal man must surely be a fully developed Homo Sapien, but does this species actually exist. £17.99

discovery heralds the awakening of an ancient and terrifying power, a power that has the ability to turn the tide in the bloody, hopeless war that has long laid waste to her country. An extraordinary epic that contains all the ingredients of the classic fantasy –brutal battles and tender love stories, headstrong elves and ambition-crazed warriors, thrilling landscapes and perilous journeys –delivered with unusual hard-headed realism and dry, bitter humour. The result is a gripping, searing tale about the dangers of power and the ugliness of war that speaks unnervingly to our age.£14.95

well at school, makes glamorous friends and marries her university sweetheart Percy, the heir to the Radley Bank fortune. Now all that’s missing is the icing on the cake – a baby. When a traumatic event changes everything, she finds herself on a journey to rediscover her love of food that takes her from Florence to the French Riviera and finally back home to the Sussex village of Littlehurst, with a crazy plan to open her own patisserie. With flirtatious Fred the blacksmith and the dark, brooding Edmund on her doorstep, will she finally find that elusive ingredient – love? £17.99

we will be giving away one copy of each of the books featured.

For your chance to win one of these fabulous books, please send an email to Office@alongthethames.co.uk by 30th April 2014

BOOK GUILD

The books on this page are from Book Guild Publishing Fic t

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PUBLISHING

To order, please call 01202 665432 (weekdays only) or visit www.bookguild.co.uk to view our other titles LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

Country Wise

rees, we all take them for granted. During our winter, many of our tree species are just a collection of twigs and branches. Summer comes and the trees undergo a transformation generally ignored, unless you are seeking shade or to get out of the rain. Have you ever considered whilst sheltering, what species of tree is offering you cover? Did you know for instance that we have over 30 species of tree native to the UK. Along with the natives, that have been here since the ice age, we have a wealth of other varieties. Either introduced by us or that have found their own way here. Yes it is a tree. But can you name it? The tree most people can name by looking at the leaves is the good old English Oak; surprisingly this is not one of our native trees. After that, most people go a bit sketchy about names. This time of year is a great time to get to know trees. Yes, I know there are no leaves to help, but at this time of year a great many of our trees are coming into flower. This makes identifying the different species a whole lot easier. Here is our quick guide to just a few of our trees in flower at this time of the year. Blackthorn – Bark is purplish black, white flowers before leaves appear. This tree is where sloes come from. Remember this one for later in the year if you are into making your own Sloe Gin. Blackthorn is part of the plum family.

Hawthorn – Bark is brown shallow often spiralled ridges. In late April to May our hedges burst into white flowers, many of these will be Hawthorn. This is a relic from the Parliamentary Enclosures when we planted hundreds of thousands of miles of Hawthorn hedges. These species are easy to recognise because they have flowers that look like flowers. Trees also produce flowers in many other disguises. One such disguise is the Catkin. A Catkin is not a flower, you say. But trust me it is a flower, just a very

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

strange looking flower. Look out for Goat Willow or pussy willow. Most people know of have seen goat willow, very pretty with its grey/green fluffy buds. Flowers precede the leaves. Male trees are gold, females, silver.

Hazel – Bark burnished bronze to pale brown. The Catkins found on hazel are the male flower; if you look very carefully on the same stem, you will find the small pink female flower. If you want to learn more about, the trees we live next to why not try these websites, www.treecouncil.org.uk and woodlandtrust.org.uk Both websites have a wealth of information to help you identify the trees you come across. If you want to take a walk in a local woodland then the Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust website www.bbowt.org.uk has information about its reserves. Get to know a little about trees and your walks will never be the same again. Jacky & Mark Bloomfield - wildlife photographers

READER’s OFFER Hands up who loves their bed?

WE HAVE A MEDIUM SIZE POI DOG ® BED TO GIVE AWAY TO ONE LUCKY DOG. The bed is oval shaped with chunky foam walls whilst the inner cushion is really well padded and comfy! The material is water resistant and the cover is removable and washable – perfect! The medium bed currently retails at £29.99 on www. purelydogbeds.co.uk and is perfect for Labrador/Boxer/Collie size dogs. A large version is also available to suit bigger breeds.. All you need to do is send us an email with your name and contact details by 30th April to Office@AlongTheThames. co.uk and one winner will be chosen at random. One entry per household only

NT Jenny Woodcock

NT Stuart Cox

NT Jenny Woodcock

NT David Levenson

Be a Cadbury Eggsplorer with the National Trust this Easter Once again, two national treasures, Cadbury and the National Trust are joining forces to bring chocolate-flavoured egg-citement to the Easter holiday at a beautiful place near you. This year the theme is “discovery”, so children are invited to become a Cadbury Eggsplorer as they follow a trail to win themselves a chocolate egghead prize. The National Trust owns and looks after many of the most beautiful historic and unspoilt places in the country, so the Cadbury Easter trails are a great way for families to enjoy a traditional fun day out in surroundings that are second to none.

BERKSHIRE BASILDON PARK Near Pangbourne. Tel: 0118 984 3040 EGGTASTIC FUN Daily from Tue 1 – Mon 21 Apr 10am-5pm Look for eggs in the house and win a Cadbury prize by solving our Easter garden trail. £2 MAIDENHEAD AND COOKHAM COMMONS Pinkney’s Green Near Maidenhead. Tel: 01628 605069

CLIVEDEN Near Maidenhead. Tel: 01628 605069 CADBURY’S EASTER TRAIL Fri 18 – Mon 21 Apr 11am-4pm Hunt for clues on the eggstra special trail, have your face painted and enjoy a delicious Cadbury prize.£2.50 per trail HUGHENDEN MANOR High Wycombe. Tel: 01494 755573 EASTER EGG TRAIL Sat 5 – Tue 22 Apr 11am-4pm Take a trail around the gardens with a Cadbury Easter egg prize. £2 per trail STOWE Near Buckingham. Tel: 01280 817156 EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA Fri 18 – Mon 21 Apr 10am-4pm Crack the trail and claim your Cadbury’s egg. There will also be games, activities and face painting. £2.50 per trail

EASTER TRAIL DETECTIVE Mon 21 Apr , 11am-3pm Follow the clues through woodland and piece together the puzzle to win a Cadbury egghead. £3 per trail

WADDESDON MANOR Near Aylesbury. Tel 18 April to 21 April 2014, 10:00am to 5:00pm The National Trust and Cadbury are teaming up once again to celebrate Easter in style. Take part in a fun trail around the gardens to claim your Cadbury chocolate egg head. £3 per trail

BUCKINGHAMSHIRE

OXFORDSHIRE

ASHRIDGE ESTATE Near Tring. Tel: 01442 851227

GREYS COURT Near Henley on Thames. Tel: 01491 628529 CADBURY EASTER EGG HUNT Fri 18 – Mon 21 Apr 11am-4pm Follow the clues to win a Cadbury Easter Egghead. £2 per trail

EASTER EGG TRAIL Fri 18 – Mon 21 Apr 10am-4pm Discover the secrets of our woodland and wildlife and collect your Cadbury reward at the end. Child £2.50 BOARSTALL DUCK DECOY Near Bicester. Tel: 01280 817156 CADBURY’S EASTER EGG HUNT Fri 18 – 21 Apr 11am-5pm Follow the trail, collect clues, solve the puzzle and enjoy your Cadbury chocolate reward. £1.50 per trail CHILTERNS COUNTRYSIDE Near Aylesbury. Tel: 01494 755573 COOMBE HILL EASTER EGG TRAIL Fri 18 – Mon 21 Apr 11am-4pm Solve the clues to claim your Cadbury chocolate prize. £2.50/trail

NUFFIELD PLACE Henley on Thames. Tel 01491 641224 CADBURY’S EASTER EGG TRAILS Fri 18 – Mon 21 Apr 11am-4pm Come and follow the trail to find a Cadbury chocolate Egghead. £2 per trail Where there is a charge for entry, normal admission prices apply. Entry for National Trust members is free. All income generated goes towards the upkeep and care of our special places for you and future generations to enjoy. For further information, please see: www.eastereggtrail.com LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

Pet friendly weddings ..... what do you think?

t’s well and truly wedding fayre season with all of the lovely hotels in the region setting up to woo engaged couples with gorgeous gowns, tempting cakes and fabulous favours, not to mention beautiful backdrops for the all important photographs. The excitement of a wedding is hard to match, friends and family all gathered together to celebrate, the guest list is carefully crafted and the table plan is organised with precision! There is however, one part of the family often excluded from the nuptials despite them being a huge part of every day life…..I’m talking about our pets of course! A friend of mine is getting married next year and has unequivocally stated that her dog will be attending the ceremony and will (if he does well at

Would you prefer your dog to stay with a dog loving family than be left in a kennel while you are away? We take care of everything

Our carefully selected host families will care for your furry friend as if he were at home. This is not a job to them but a very rewarding hobby.

Please Contact Karen

01628 559479 www.barkingmad.uk.com

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his training class) be a ring bearer. Now; I love my dogs but had they been part of my family when I got married, would I have had them at my wedding? It got me thinking about pet friendly ceremonies and I did a bit of asking around to find some examples of weddings where pets have made a guest appearance – I have to say I was pleasantly surprised. Let me introduce Sally Bett and her beloved bunny Buster. Sally was married in Buford Church in the Cotswolds in December 2013 and Buster was her ring bearer. He wore a bow tie and had a pillow with the rings on his back! There’s no doubting the love in this picture and I think it’s extremely beautiful! Rebecca Gunn also got in touch. She involved two of her pets in her wedding to Julian in Chertsey. Gorgeous Labrador Bertie was a handsome ring bearer and her horse certainly looks majestic in their wedding pictures. So here’s our question to you – have you involved your pets in your wedding day? Or are you a hotel in the area that offers pet friendly packages? If so we’d love to hear from you and we will print some of the best pictures! Just email Office@alongthethames. co.uk with your story and contact details Claire Fryer

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THE COSMOS IN MARCH: is another blue moon month and celebrates two new moons, one on the 1st in Pisces and the second one on the 30th in Aries. Pisces is the sign of imagery, dreams and fantasy, so this is the month to let your imagination run wild and connect with your personal hopes and wishes. This moon also marks a new beginning and helps to connect us all with our compassionate and spiritual purpose. The Spring Equinox on the 20th and the Aries moon both bring a more dynamic and fiery quality and help turn those dreams into reality. Mercury turns direct on the 2nd and things should get easier as plans start to move forward. The mighty planet Jupiter has been in retrograde motion since November, and finally moves forward again on the 6th March. Jupiter’s effects are to expand our experiences, our knowledge and our understanding of why we are here. All round there should be more optimism, growth, generosity and abundance.

Aries March 21 - April 20

Jupiter moves forward in a pivotal part of your chart, this is an excellent time to begin a new venture that you’d like to be long-term and prosperous. Focus is now on your foundations and building your inner world so that you feel secure. The new moon in your sign on the 30th brings opportunities. April could turn out to be quite introspective and reflective for usually outgoing and gregarious Aries. The full moon on the 15th in your opposite sign of Libra demands that you take time out to review your relationships. For the best results, you need to be cautions and stay adaptable.

Enjoy this special time! THE COSMOS IN APRIL: is likely to be a turbulent month, the planets present great challenges in the sky which will reflect on severe challenges here on earth. The main themes are the continued urge for freedom and openness clashing with dominance and secrecy. Pluto, Uranus, Jupiter and Mars confront each other with a volatile mix of power, freedom, expansion and aggression, which will peak around the 22nd of the month with a grand cross formation of these four planets in the heavens. Two eclipse will also bring matters to a head with a total eclipse on the 15th and then the Solar eclipse at the end of the month on the 29th. Difficult though this month may turn out to be, the need for equality and change is great and hopefully some good will come out of the turmoil. . The relationship and love planet Venus moves into Pisces on the 6th, this placement can be looked upon as very positive for kindness, consideration and compassion

Cancer June 23 - July 23

The new moon in Pisces on the 1st is important and you should feel a restored sense of gentleness and compassion. Jupiter moving forward in your sign after the 6th brings your confidence and enthusiasm to the forefront. You are likely to feel positive about your ability to push ideas forward. April: The grand cross aspect pattern brings up all sorts of questions concerning your relationship, your career and the way you come across to others. Although it is a positive month for moving forward, you need to stay totally attuned to your inner self and not let yourself be swayed by strong personalities around you.

Taurus

Leo

April 21 - May 21

July 24 - August 23

Jupiter expands communications and all areas of learning, try not to take on too many daily activities or new interests during this month. Venus, your ruling planet, moves into quirky Aquarius on the 6th bringing the opportunity of a new career goal and for meeting interesting and unusual people. April: Venus, your ruling planet, moves from logical and detached Aquarius into compassionate and romantic Pisces on the 6th. You may need to take a complete break from responsibilities and demands of family and friends. Take time out to nurture and pamper yourself.

March highlights your work, health and wellbeing and all your daily routines. Pluto and Venus in Capricorn challenge you to tune in and examine these areas. Mercury moving forward in your opposite sign of Aquarius ensures that communications in all relationships can be exciting and rewarding. April: Your ruler, the Sun, forms a powerful connection with the boisterous planet Uranus early this month. Excitement and innovation are the themes for April. New ideas can really get underway as Mercury, the planet of communication moves into the pioneering and forthright sign of Aries on the 8th.

Gemini

Virgo

May 22 - June 22

August 24 - September 23

Expansive Jupiter is travelling forward through your financial sector. During this time you are likely to see and enjoy some new benefits to your earning power and to your value system. Keep yourself focussed and this should turn out to be a profitable and productive month. April: Venus moves into a pivotal position in your chart on the 6th. Your goals and ambitions are in the spotlight and a cherished dream that you have had for some time could now come to fruition. Expansive Jupiter is well placed in the financial sector of your chart, bringing golden opportunities your way.

Mercury, your ruler, moves forward again on the 2nd after a three week slowdown. As life appears to get easier and your creativity expands, you’ll want to be sure that you work in the most rewarding way possible. Venus moving to Aquarius on the 6th brings new and exciting ideas to push you forwards. April: Communicative Mercury, your ruling planet, moves to a powerful position on the 8th. Your mind is sharp and some financial issues may need re-examining and rearranging. It’s a good time to capitalise on professional matters as people around you will be very receptive to your plans, the 14th is a key date. LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

Libra

Capricorn

September 24 - October 23

December 23 - January 19

With dynamic Mars moving backwards in your sign, you’ll find that March brings your undivided attention to your personal relationships. Venus, your ruler, changes sign on the 6th and asks you to examine your feelings and beliefs Freedom and individuality are more important than ever. April: The full moon on the 15th brings your partnerships and your relationships into the spotlight, leaving you feeling quite challenged to keep life on an even keel. Try not to burden yourself with too many obligations to others. Venus, your ruler, moves into Pisces on the 6th, highlighting great opportunities for creative thinking and new ideas.

Dynamic Mars is still moving backwards in the most prominent position of your chart. Career expansion, ambition and advancement on all levels may have been delayed. But take heart as mighty Jupiter moves forward after the 6th and brings easier relationships and creative communication into the spotlight. April: Communication and social and professional interaction are the highlights for Capricorns this month. Mercury makes a marvellous connection with your ruling planet Saturn, allowing exciting opportunities to come your way. Venus moves to Pisces on the 6th, shedding light on romantic matters that could get serious.

Scorpio

Aquarius

October 24 - November 22

January 20 - February 19

This month’s planetary activity turns your attention to your home and family life. Mercury has slowed things down but is finally moving forward again after the 2nd. This is also a great time for extending and broadening your horizons. You may need to take a deep breath and have the courage to change things. April: The disciplinarian planet Saturn remains in your sign and forms a stunning aspect to communicative Mercury this month. New prospects should abound, making it the perfect time to strike while the iron is hot. You’ll be able to turn personal or professional situations to your advantage

The Pisces new moon on the 1st falls in a pivotal sector of your chart. Reassessing your vision and your life goals will be the focus of the month. Your ruler, innovative Uranus, shows you the way with some brilliant new ideas that can certainly be turned into profit making endeavours after the 6th. April: Under current planetary trends your financial matters come to the forefront giving you a much clearer focus for planning ahead. The Sun travelling thorough Aries and connecting with Uranus, your ruling planet, bring you drive and energy for new ideas. The new moon on the 29th brings your home into focus.

Sagittarius

Pisces

November 23 - December 22

February 20 - March 20

March turns the spotlight to your financial arrangements and you may well be looking at new and creative ways to expand your income. It’s all change as your ruler, expansive Jupiter, moves forward after the 6th. This ensures that your confidence improves as you put your beliefs and your values into action. April is an innovative moth for Sagittarius, your ruler, the mighty Jupiter, is favourably placed creating lots of energy for expanding your horizons. Be sure to pay attention to detail with any new projects as this will be crucial to your long term success. The 15th is favoured for social interaction.

The powerful new moon in your sign on the 1st of the month brings clarity and focus to many areas of your life. This is a time for new beginnings and for really getting in touch with your creativity. Expansive Jupiter is well placed for romance and after the 6th meaningful friendships gather on the horizon. April: Your personal charm and charisma are at an all-time high this month, particularly after the 6th as the love planet Venus moves into your sign. Your intuitive powers are also enhanced and as Venus moves to connect with deeply sensitive Neptune around the 11th, romantic matters could come to a head.

NAVIGATE YOUR WAY TO SUCCESS – WITH IN-DEPTH KNOWLEDGE AND COSMIC AWARENESS. As a trained life coach and a Bach flower essence therapy practitioner I offer a full motivational and transformational coaching programme. Your unique personal birth map can help you to successfully plan your year ahead. I work with clients all

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over the world and all my consultations are available by telephone or Skype. Please contact me for more information. Tarot card readings for wisdom and guidance are also available. Christine Chalklin Inspirational Astrologer and Transformational Life Coach

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LIVING BY DESIGN A picture perfect home decorated by a leading designer is beyond the pocket of most of us. Gabrielle Fagan asks three industry experts - Kelly Hoppen, Tricia Guild and Nina Campbell - to reveal their secrets so you can make that stunning interior a reality. Kelly Hoppen, interior designer and currently one of the dragons on BBC Two’s Dragons’ Den, whose new book is Kelly Hoppen Design Masterclass: How To Achieve The Home Of Your Dreams, says the importance of home cannot be underestimated. “The moment we cross our threshold, we should feel the cares slip from our shoulders and be able to enjoy being cocooned in comfort, safety and warmth,” she says. “Our homes are, after all, our greatest asset, not just financially but also for our sense of wellbeing and happiness.” Hoppen’s tips on creating a dream home: Good planning is essential, she says. “Write a wish list for your home. Don’t worry about colour palettes, fabric choices or furniture at this stage - rather describe the atmosphere, the style of decoration you like, the things that will make you most happy, and how you want others to feel when they walk through the door.” Hoppen’s 2014 trend tips: “This year there will be a bigger emphasis on modular and structured designs,” she predicts. “Lighting will play an ever increasing role as its power is understood more. Good lighting is like a layer of magic dust sprinkled over everything - it affects mood more than any other factor and is not a design ingredient you should ever skimp on.” How can your book help? “This is my way of holding someone’s hand through the journey of designing a home,” she says. “That starts from analysing the space they have and determining how best to use it, to resolving choices of flooring, fabrics, furniture and lighting. Nina Campbell is an interior designer with a portfolio of celebrity clients, including Rod Stewart and the Duchess of York, Sarah Ferguson. Her new book is Nina Campbell Interiors. “A home should be finished to the point that it is comfortable and is somewhere that you can live and entertain, but it must always have a few spaces yet to be filled,” says Campbell, summing up her view of design and interiors. “If nothing ever changes, a house can become stagnant. I think it’s always good to be open to new ways to display pieces and to subtly change decor to suit the season.” Campbell’s tips on creating a dream home: “First of all, I think you need to consider a property and its location and thoroughly understand what you are working with. Then you need to decide how you want to live in the house,” she says. “Then be honest about how you really want to live in the house - do the dogs live on the bed, do you want to lie full length on sofas or simply tucked up in an armchair?

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“Finally, create your own style. One of my biggest pleasures is sourcing furniture, bespoke pieces and art so that every home is unique. One client summed up this perfectly by saying about his interior, ‘Nothing matches but everything goes together’.” Campbell’s 2014 trend tips: “I think a more classic decoration is set to enjoy a revival, with a lot more colour, pattern and detail prevalent,” she says. “People will enjoy displaying treasured pieces of furniture along with modern, new pieces. “Wallpapers are coming back into popularity in a big way and patterns are becoming bolder. Florals will continue to dominate and blowsy blooms and painterly designs will generally hold sway.” How can your book help? “As a designer I want to be a guide to achieving a client’s desires and to be editor of their dreams,” she says. “The eight projects in the book, including a chic city apartment, an English country home and a mansion in China, show how that process unfolds and works. Tricia Guild, founder and creative director of renowned fabric and wallpaper specialists, Designers Guild. Her new book is Colour Deconstructed. “What does a home mean to me? That’s simple. It should be where you feel joy and happiness - it should feel like your own space, reflective of the spirit, life and loves of the person who lives there.” Guild’s tips on creating a dream home “Colour can completely transform the mood of a space,” she says. “Although people often feel afraid of colour, I believe we all have a colour sense - it’s just a matter of tuning into it. “Once you start to be aware of this, you realise everyone has colours that wake them up, make them feel happy, sad or balanced. I love fresh vital colours used with masses of white to keep a sense of balance.” Guild’s trend tips for 2014: “People are becoming ever more confident about using and enjoying colour and pattern and really appreciating how much it can enrich a home,” she says. “Colour makes the heart sing, touches the soul and gives joy to the spirit, and that realisation will continue and get stronger this year.” How can your book help? “This is my 16th book on colour, flowers and design. In more than 25 decorative schemes, I show how colour and pattern, texture and function can be used to create stunning rooms, different moods and atmosphere,” she says. Kelly Hoppen Design Masterclass: How To Achieve The Home Of Your Dreams by Kelly Hoppen is published by Jacqui Small, priced £40. Available to readers for £32 (inc p&p). Call 01903 828 503 or email mailorders@lbsltd.co.uk and quote offer code APG46 Nina Campbell Interiors by Nina Campbell is published by CICO Books (www.cicobooks.co.uk), priced £30. Available to readers for £22 (inc p&p). Call 01256 302 699 and quote offer code GLR 8TY Colour Deconstructed by Tricia Guild is published by Quadrille Publishing, priced £30. Available to readers for £25 (inc p&p). Call 01256 302 699 and quote offer code 9QA

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Win Tickets with Living Along The Thames to GRAND DESIGNS LIVE LONDON BUILD ON YOUR IDEAS AND BE INSPIRED…WITH A VISIT TO THE UK’S LEADING HOME SHOW LONDON EXCEL, 3 – 11 MAY 2014 Living Along The Thames has teamed up with Grand Designs Live London 2014, sponsored by Anglian Home Improvements, to offer you the chance to win a pair of tickets to the show. Grand Designs Live, is the UKs leading contemporary home show and returns by popular demand to London Excel for its 10th year running from 3 - 11 May. The ultimate destination for home owners and self-builders, 2014 exhibitors will showcase a range of innovative and inspirational ideas across the nine day show and with over 500 exhibitors this year; you’ll be able to shop from a great selection of brands with 100’s of items not available on the high street. Presented by design guru Kevin McCloud and based on the hugely popular Channel 4 series, the show offers visitors a unique opportunity to see all the latest trends for the home. With areas dedicated to everything from interiors to gardens and technology, you can experience seven shows all under one roof: Grand Build, Grand Interiors, Grand Kitchens & Bathrooms sponsored by Miele, Grand Village, Grand Technology, Grand Gardens and Grand Food & Housewares. As a visitor to the show you can benefit from a range of

features on offer to make the most of every room in your home. With exclusive access to advice from leading industry experts, including the dedicated Ask An Expert at the heart of Grand Build, this year’s show promises to offer aspiring developers, builders and home renovators the very best FREE specialist advice. To be in with a chance of winning tickets for a GRAND day out this May send your details to Office@AlongTheThames.co.uk by 25th April. (one entry per household) Grand Designs Live London takes place from 3 – 11 May 2014 at London Excel. Save £££’s when you book in advance. Order your tickets online: www.granddesignslive.com or call the booking hotline on 0844 854 1348.

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Win family tickets to a double show spectacular Preparations are well underway for two great shows that will be running side-by-side at Newbury Showground in midApril and WE’VE GOT 20 FAMILY TICKETS TO THIS FANTASTIC EVENT DOUBLE UP FOR GRABS. The All About Gardening show opens on Friday, April 11 and then on Saturday and Sunday organiser Aztec Events will also be treating visitors to its pawsitively spectacular All About Dogs Show. So whether you’re a serious green-fingered enthusiast or just looking for a ‘grrrreat’ way to entertain the entire family, the Newbury showground will have it all. Popular TV presenter and prolific author Pippa Greenwood will be giving grow-your-own advice on Saturday, April 12 and on Sunday, April 13 celebrity Ground Force gardener Charlie Dimmock will be offering a huge crop of advice on choosing and installing water features. Elsewhere the All About Dogs show will be offering a whole host of canine fun for the whole family. From entertaining demonstrations and shopping to plenty of ‘have a go’ games and

competitions, this show actually offers the chance for every dog to have its day! It also features stacks of expert grooming or behavioural advice from top canine professionals. To be in with a chance of winning one of 20 family tickets, simply send your name and address by email to Office@ AlongTheThames.co.uk by 30th March (The tickets will be given out on a first come first serve basis one per family only)

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Think Visual Is a picture worth a thousand words? Is photography having a revival? In today’s world of business and social media the answer is yes. Since caveman times images have played an important role in telling and recording a story as well as engaging our audiences, so the concept isn’t a new one. What has changed again recently is the balance between written content and imagery. Imagery and clever use of it across social media platforms is driving audience engagement, whatever sector you are in. Even sectors that are heavily regulated can use visual imagery to connect with their audiences; they just have to be clever about it. Today’s social media savvy entrepreneurs have already got this nailed, with traditional headshots being replaced by photographs that tell you something about the individual and what they do. People want to do business with real people who they can relate to and who also look the part. The photographs below make the point better than words alone. Imagery is a powerful communications tool, but how many small and large businesses actually incorporate this concept into their planning? There is still a trend for organisations to rely on written content with out of date and lack lustre photographs. Written content is still important, but make sure the messaging packs a punch, is well written, and of interest to your audiences. Think quality over quantity. The growth in the use of eye-catching visual imagery that tells a story and engages an audience is being driven by a number of factors. One of the key drivers is that social media platforms enable individuals, groups and businesses to craft visual content that tells a story, engages with an increasingly mobile audience and importantly, that can be easily shared.

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Liz Heron from the Wall Street Journal recently said; “Really putting a priority on being able to tell a story in a visual way has been one of the biggest shifts for us and the most important shifts in terms of growing our community.” She also added, that the “strategy around strong images is something that has changed the way the whole newsroom works.” In the good old days of PR people would ask; “Do you have a face for radio?” Don’t let harbingers of doom prevent you from taking photographs that capture attention. Even the humble pumpkin can be turned into a thing of visual beauty – think field of pumpkins to illustrate a Halloween story. Take the usual and make it unusual. A boring statistic on how many businesses sell pumpkins in the UK can be made more interesting with an infograph showing ‘hot’ areas for pumpkin sellers or growers. Is there a North v South divide that can be illustrated? Images and photographs can be used to convey a range of messages. Putting the CEO of a company astride a motorbike to show the takeover of a roadside recovery group is a solid example. Or take two photographs, contrast them and pose a question to your social audience to generate engagement and drive traffic to your social media platforms. If your business has not harnessed the power of creative imagery and social media then now is the time to give it some serious thought. Standing out from the crowd is never an easy feat, but for you to be heard think visual.

Harriet Subramanian

Photographs courtesy Carey Sheffield Photography 1.

Harriet Subramanian - Flourish PR

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“Been there, got the T-shirt” ... So what? I was struck by a remark made by a fellow delegate at a recent conference that caused me to reflect deeply, leading to a perspective that I hope you will find useful. The other delegate had just described themselves as a coach. I asked politely (and somewhat playfully) “what qualifies you as a coach?” The answer, delivered confidently, was “because I have been there, done that, and got the T-shirt. People I coach learn from my experiences, and benefit from working with me as a role model.” Initially, this might seem a reasonable response, providing an excellent reason to work with this coach, or at least to find out more. Deeper examination may lead to the formation of a different perspective for you, as it did for me. When I work with people, designing and delivering transformational change, there is a common challenge we often face together. It is the impact of personal history and past experiences on our present actions, and on the options open to us in the future. It is true that our histories and experiences can often be useful as we deal with our present, and they can help us when preparing for our futures. We all have used our past experience, the knowledge and wisdom we have acquired, to help us live our lives. If we have learned to drive, it is useful not to re-learn every day. Sometimes a client tells me they are apprehensive about something they are about to do, because they have never done it before. Whilst they may not have done before exactly what they are about to do, they may have successfully done something pretty similar in the past. If so, they can take confidence from their previous success into their new task, Furthermore, we can think about what sorts of resources (skills, equipment, knowledge and

the like) they might need to be successful in their new task. When we identify these resources, we can then find out when in their past they had access to those resources and help to reconnect with them, helping them in their new task. However, these very same personal histories and past experiences can actually limit us. “I can’t do this task because I am no good at……” comes from past experiences, many of which come from our pre-teen, formative years. I know someone very successful in business who is nervous about financial accounting. Working together, we identified that, at the age of 9, he was told by a teacher that he “found maths very challenging.” Once he identified this as a significant event, he recalled lots of other situations that reinforced the statement. It had become what is known as a “limiting belief.” Actually, many of these limiting beliefs are operating without us necessarily recognising them. My role often is to help people identify and challenge their limiting beliefs. Here’s my point for the T-shirt wearer – it is bad enough to potentially be limited by our own histories and experiences. For pity’s sake, don’t also limit us by the histories and experiences of someone who has been there and got the T-shirt! Also, we are not you – just because what you did worked for you in that particular situation doesn’t mean it will work for us. We need resources that are the right ones for us – not for you. If we have our own resources, not ones borrowed from another person and another time, we are so much more powerful. The T-shirt merchants have a place, a value, and a role. I affirm that role is mentoring, not coaching. Phil Walker

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Motoring: The 2014 Nissan Qashqai

Matt Kimberley puts the 2014 Nissan Qashqai through its paces The first Qashqai has been a success Nissan had barely dared to dream about. Such was the original Qashqai’s success, global sales have continued to increase every year it’s been on sale, defying the expectations and predictions of experts everywhere. The problem is, there isn’t much room for improvement - in sales terms at least. There were a few gripes with the car affectionately known as the Cash Cow, most notably the gutless petrol engine and perceived quality. Both of these issues, and many more besides, have been tackled in the new car. FIRST IMPRESSIONS: Nissan has taken a bit of a risk, because the 2014 Qashqai looks nothing like the old one. Any firstgeneration model owners who appreciate familiarity when upgrading (like serial Audi A3 buyers) might have preferred a less drastic stroke of the designer’s pen. In the metal the longer, wider and lower new Qashqai has a well-balanced stance and a nice weightiness to its shape that hints at a more purposeful intent than before. Nissan is gunning for the Volkswagen Golf, and it’s not as daft an idea as it might first sound. Climbing into the driver’s seat

you’re greeted by a much more upmarket interior than the old Qashqai’s was, and this top-spec Tekna model is packed with kit, too. Sat-nav, internet connectivity and heated, leather seats catch my eye as I buckle my seat belt. Advanced chassis dynamics control and active safety equipment are prepared, but out of sight. This cabin is a solid piece of design and layout, and the materials are right up there with the class best. The shiny black centre console fascia splits opinion, though, with some calling it a prestige feature, while others would rather see it at the bottom of a skip. ENGINE OPTIONS: Three engines will be available at first, with two quiet diesels and a new, turbocharged 1.2-litre petrol engine in place of the decidedly feeble old 1.6. The diesels, at 1.5 and 1.6 litres, are similar in character but here they use very different gearboxes. In a rather clever move, Nissan has engineered its continually-variable automatic transmission (CVT) to simulate the ‘stepped’, linear behaviour of traditional gears under hard acceleration. It feels instantly more natural as a result, but it does ultimately dent the 1.6 diesel’s performance. The engine itself, like its slightly smaller sibling, is amazingly quiet in normal use before high revs make it as

rowdy as a bucket of piglets. The 1.5 actually has a slight edge in refinement after significant development, and with new gearing for its six-speed manual shift it sneaks down to a remarkable 99g/km of CO2 emissions. Performance is adequate rather than impressive. The petrol engine is still too weak for this car. Its battle against tall gearing and weight, which although reduced by 40kg is still fairly high, is best fought in town and suburbs where it copes well. Getting up to motorway speeds is a task it struggles with. Doing the daily grind: Practicality has taken a turn for the better, with more interior storage including a biblically large central bin between the front seats. The boot has a clever arrangement of panels that as standard flatten the load lip, but, with a quick switch, can stop your shopping sliding around or increase the overall boot capacity. The new Qashqai is massively impressive in many areas, not least the exceptional ride and body control. The overriding feeling to take away from it is one of quality. It feels like the real deal, and it’s not a factor that the slightly underpowered engines can compromise. It’s bigger than its key rivals, has more boot space and material quality to match anything else for the money. The price is steep, but the goods are worth it.

FACTS AT A GLANCE Model: 2014 Nissan Qashqai, from £17,595 on the road. Engine: 1.5-litre turbodiesel producing 128bhp and 236lb.ft. Performance: Top speed 113mph, 0-62mph in 11.9 seconds. Transmission: Six-speed manual gearbox driving the front wheels. Fuel economy: 74mpg. CO2 rating: 99g/km.

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e f f o c

k a e r eb

QUICK CLUES Across 7. Outmoded (13) 8. Calamity (8) 9. Symptom (4) 10. Brigand (6) 12. Mislead (6) 14. Guide (6) 16. Resuscitate (6) 18. Imperfection (4) 20. Power (8) 22. Countercharge (13)

Down 1. Show (8) 2. Risk (6) 3. Close (4) 4. Passage (8) 5. Maiden (6) 6. Droop (4) 11. Annoying (8) 13. Loyalty (8) 15. Frustrate (6) 17. Conceit (6) 19. Sediment (4) 21. Peel (4)

Answers on page 74

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A Comprehensive Guide to What’s on in your local area. In & Around Marlow, Maidenhead, Henley, Cookham & Bourne End If you would like your event added, please contact us at Office@AlongThe Thames.co.uk

MARCH 07 - 16:‘HENLEY YOUTH FESTIVAL’, www.hyf.org.uk 08:‘HENLEY DESIGN DAY’, Open to the public 10.30 to 4pm at the Henley Town Hall (contact for more info Sarah.Miller@ riba.org) 08:‘HAMBLEDEN COVERED MARKET’, homemade cakes, cheeses, organic bread, local meat, crafts, collectables and hot food all day,10.00-15.00, Hambleden Village Hall. 10: ‘BOUTIQUE CINEMA’, presents ‘Rush’ starring Daniel Bruhl & Chris Hemsworth, screening starts at 20.00 with a pre-feature comedy classic from 19.30, Clayton’s, Oxford Road. (advisable to book in advance: 01628 488404). 10: ‘LOCAL PLAN – OPTIONS CONSULTATION FOR CHEPPING WYE VALLEY’, 09.30-17.30, staffed exhibition or 19.00-21.00 (evening meeting), Bourne End Library, Wakeman Road. (To register for the evening meeting, please contact: 01494 421277 or email: newlocalplan@ wycombe.gov.uk 11: ‘GROW YOUR OWN – 5 A DAY – THE GOOD LIFE’, a talk from Buckingham Nurseries hosted by the Marlow Horticultural Society, 19.30 for 20.00, Liston Hall. 11: ‘TRACING THE HISTORY OF A VILLAGE’, a Bucks Family History talk, 19.45, Bourne End Community Centre, Wakeman Road. 12-15: MAOS (MARLOW AMATEUR OPERATIC SOCIETY) PRESENTS ‘BACK TO THE 80S’, 19.30 daily, Shelley Theatre, Court Garden Leisure Centre, Pound Lane. 13: ‘MONTHLY TEA DANCE’ by the Marlow Community Association, 14.00-16.00, Liston Hall. 13: ‘CLIVEDEN OPEN HOUSE’, entry will be by timed tickets available at 10 minute intervals, 10.00-17.00, Cliveden, Advance booking (£7.50pp) is strongly recommended on 0844 2491895. (Normal admission charges apply).(NT)(B) 15: MARLOW FC V RUGBY TOWN, kick off 15.00, Oaktree Road, SL7 3ED. 15: ‘COUNTRYSIDE WORKOUT’, join the ranger team whilst helping to conserve this

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special place. Activities vary from scrub clearance to coppicing and nature surveys, 10.00-16.00, Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe - 01494 755573.(NT) 16: MARLOW DUATHLON, 7km run – 25km bike -7 km run, race starts at 09.00, Marlow Sports Club, Pound Lane. For more info: www.marlowstriders.co.uk 16: ‘HANDS-ON SCIENCE’, a national science and engineering event, free drop in 14.30-16.00, Wyombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe. 16:‘ARTISAN &CRAFT FAIR’, Open to the public 10.00 to 4pm at the Henley Town Hall , boutiqueevents2014@gmail.com 17: ‘BOUTIQUE CINEMA’ PRESENTS ‘PHILOMENA’ starring Judi Dench & Steve Coogan, screening starts at 20.00 with a pre-feature comedy classic from 19.30, Clayton’s, Oxford Road. (advisable to book in advance: 01628 488404). 18:’PRESENTATION ON WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY - TOM WAY’, Marlow Camera Club, 19:45-20:00, The Methodist Church Hall, Spittal Street, Marlow, SL7 3HJ 19: ‘GRANDMA FLEW SPITFIRES’, presentation of a forgotten story of courage, skill and sacrifice by Richard Poad of the Maidenhead Heritage Centre, 14.00, High Wycombe Library, Eden Shopping Centre. Entry £2, to book: 01494 713912.(B) 19-21:’QUARTET - THE HENLEY PLAYERS’, various times Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley on Thames, RG9 2BP. Box Office 01491 575698 20 - 22:’THE BUDDY HOLLY STORY’, Fri-Sat 19:30 & Sat 14:30, The Hexagon, Queens Walk, Reading RG1 7UA - 0118 9606060 20: ‘THE GREAT BARN AT HARMONDSWORTH’, a talk for AIM (Archaeology in Marlow), 20.00, Garden Room, Liston Hall. 20: ‘THE RETURN OF THE OSPREY’, an illustrated presentation for the East Berks RSPB Local Group, 19.30, High Street Methodist Church Hall, King Street, Maidenhead, SL6 1EA. 23: ‘RAT PACK LIVE’, 19:30 -Theatre Royal Windsor, Thames Street, Windsor SL4 1PS. Box Office 01753 853888

24: ‘BOUTIQUE CINEMA’, PRESENTS ‘HUNGER GAMES – CATCHING FIRE’, starring Jennifer Lawrence, screening starts at 20.00 with a pre-feature comedy classic from 19.30, Clayton’s, Oxford Road. (advisable to book in advance: 01628 488404). 26: ‘WINE TASTING’ with Marlow Wine Society. Wine merchants and other experts present eight wines in an informal atmosphere, 20.00, Pugin Rooms, St Peter’s Church, St Peter Street. For more information: 01628 482299. 28: ‘BASS-ICALLY SAXES - CHARITY CONCERT IN AID OF SEVERAL CHARITIES’ - 19:30 at St Pauls Church, Town Lane, Wooburn Green, HP10 0PW, admission free, bassicallysaxes@gmail.com; 0777 6194975 www.bass-icallysaxes.co.uk 28:’FLAMENCO EXPRESS’, Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley on Thames, RG9 2BP. Box Office 01491 575698 29: TRANSITION TOWN MARLOW COMMUNITY MARKET, local foods and crafts plus free practical workshops, 09.3013.00, Liston Hall. 9:’AND THIS IS MY FRIEND, MR LAUREL’, 15:00,Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley on Thames, RG9 2BP. Box Office 01491 575698 29 - 30:‘CREATE FESTIVAL’, HENLEY Open to the public 10:00 to 4pm at the Henley Town Hall + other locations 29: MARLOW FC V DAVENTRY TOWN, kick off 15.00, Oaktree Road, SL7 3ED. 29: THE ROTARY CLUB OF MARLOW presents a Concert by Youth Orchestras High Wycombe Music Centre, 19.30, All Saints’ Church. 30: ‘MAKE MUMS DAY!’, create your own Victorian Mother’s Day card plus Mum’s go free, 11.00-16.00, Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe. (A free event but normal admission charges apply).(NT) 30:‘HENLEY BOAT RACES’, Temple Island Meadows - www.henleyboatraces.co.uk 31: ‘BOUTIQUE CINEMA’ PRESENTS ‘SAVING MR BANKS’, starring Tom Hanks & Emma Thompson, screening starts at 20.00 with a pre-feature comedy classic from 19.30, Clayton’s, Oxford Road. (book in advance: 01628 488404).

For more information/changes to schedules as listed or information please call Marlow Information C

APRIL 01: ‘TUESDAY GARDEN TOURS’, a free guided tour to find out about the latest goings-on in the gardens, 14.00-15.00, Cliveden, nr. Taplow. (Normal admission charges apply).(NT) 02-05:’THE WEDDING SINGER’, various times Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley on Thames, RG9 2BP. Box Office 01491 575698 03: ‘OXFORD BEFORE THE UNIVERSITY’ a talk for MAS (Marlow Archaeology Society), 20.00, Garden Room, Liston Hall. 04: ‘MILLION DOLLAR TRIO’, a Johnny Cash, Elvis & Jerry Lee Lewis tribute night (£25pp inc. a 2 course dinner), 19.30-midnight, Crowne Plaza Hotel, Fieldhouse Lane. Book: 01628 496860.(B) 05: ‘WINE TASTING’, a chance to sample a selection of fine wines available from Laithwaites, 10.00-16.00, at the Rebellion Brewery Shop, Bencombe Farm, Marlow Bottom, SL7 3LT. 05: ‘THE SIRENS’, an evening of the world’s greatest vocal classics in aid of The Stroke Association’, 19.00-21.00, All Saints’ Church. 05: THE MARLOW TOWN BAND presents a charity concert in aid of Alzheimers Dementia Support in partnership with The Maidenhead Salvation Army Songsters, 19.00, The Shelley Theatre, Court Garden Leisure Centre, Pound Lane. For tickets or further details: 07950 690775.(B) 05-22: ‘EASTER EGG TRAIL’, daily 11.0016.00, Hughenden, nr. High Wycombe. (£2.00pp, normal admission charges apply).(NT) 07: ‘BOUTIQUE CINEMA’, screening starts at 20.00 with a pre-feature comedy classic from 19.30, Clayton’s, Oxford Road. (advisable to book in advance: 01628 488404). 08: ‘REBELLION BREWERY TOURS’, all ales currently being brewed available on the night. Talks also given on brewing history and methods, 19.00-21.30, Bencombe Farm, Marlow Bottom, SL7 3LT. All welcome, £10 pp, bbq all year round! 08:’PHOTOGRAPHY IN THE SNOW GORDON ROBERTS’, Marlow Camera Club, 19:45-20:00, The Methodist Church Hall, Spittal Street, Marlow, SL7 3HJ 08: ‘LETTERS HOME – THE ARMY POSTAL SERVICES IN WORLD WAR 1’, a Bucks Family History talk, 19.45, Bourne End Community Centre, Wakeman Road. 08: ‘TUESDAY GARDEN TOURS’, a free guided tour to find out about the latest goings-on in the gardens,14.00-15.00, Cliveden, nr. Taplow. (Normal admission

Photo Courtesy of www.aerial-photograph.co.uk

charges apply).(NT) 08: ‘STAGECOACH: EASTER MEDLEY WORKSHOP’, 6 - 18 years, Marlow - www. stagecoach.co.uk/henleyandmarlow.htm 09-12:’THE FULL MONTY’, various times Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley on Thames, RG9 2BP. Box Office 01491 575698 09&11: ‘TRAIL TRACKERS’, a chance for kids to learn how to use a compass and have fun orienteering around the park with a NT Ranger, 11.00-12.30, Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe. Booking essential (£3pp) on 01494 755573.(B)(NT) 08 -12: ‘JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR’, Theatre Royal Windsor, Thames Street, Windsor SL4 1PS. Box Office 01753 853888. 10-12: MARLOW PLAYERS PRESENTS ‘WIFE AFTER DEATH’, comedy by Eric Chappell, 20.00, Shelley Theatre, Court Garden Leisure Centre, Pound Lane. 11 -13:’ALL ABOUT GARDENING & ALL ABOUT DOGS’, Open to the public at Newbury Showground - see competition in this issue 13: ‘CLIVEDEN CAR DISPLAY’, a tantalising line-up of extra special cars on the Grand Avenue, 12.00-15.00, Cliveden, nr. Taplow. (Free event but normal admission charges apply). 13 -14:’ALICE IN WONDERLAND, 13th 18:00, 14th - 14:00 & 18:00, The Hexagon, Queens Walk, Reading RG1 7UA. Box Office 0118 9606060 14: ‘BOUTIQUE CINEMA’, screening starts at 20.00 with a pre-feature comedy classic from 19.30, Clayton’s, Oxford Road. (advisable to book in advance: 01628 488404). 15: ‘TUESDAY GARDEN TOURS’, a free guided tour to find out about the latest goings-on in the gardens,14.00-15.00, Cliveden, nr. Taplow. (Normal admission charges apply).(NT)

Centre on 01628 483597 or Maidenhead Library on 01628 796969 or Henley Library on 01491 575278

16:’QUARTET - NEIL DIAMOND STORY’, Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley on Thames, RG9 2BP. Box Office 01491 575698 17:’HANSEL & GRETEL’, Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley on Thames, RG9 2BP. Box Office 01491 575698 18 - 21: ‘EASTER WEEKEND’, Easter Egg Hunt all weekend at the Oakley Court, Windsor Road, Water Oakley, Windsor SL4 5UR - www.theoakleycourt.co.uk 16&18: ‘TRAIL TRACKERS’, a chance for kids to learn how to use a compass and have fun orienteering around the park with a NT Ranger, 11.00-12.30, Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe. Booking essential (£3pp) on 01494 755573.(B)(NT) 18-21: ‘CADBURY’S EASTER TRAIL’, hunt for clues around the grounds and enjoy a delicious prize at the end, 11.00-16.00, Cliveden, nr. Taplow. (£2.50pp, normal admission charges apply).(NT) 19: MARLOW FC V BEACONSFIELD SYCOB, kick off 15.00, Oaktree Road, SL7 3ED. 19: ‘COUNTRYSIDE WORKOUT’, join the ranger team whilst helping to conserve this special place. Activities vary from scrub clearance to coppicing and nature surveys, 10.00-16.00, Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe - 01494 755573.(NT) 19-20: ‘ALIENS LOVE UNDERPANTS’, Theatre Royal Windsor, Thames Street, Windsor SL4 1PS. Box Office 01753 853888 21: ‘Boutique Cinema’, screening starts at 20.00 with a pre-feature comedy classic from 19.30, Clayton’s, Oxford Road. (Due to popularity it is advisable to book your seat in advance: 01628 488404). 22: ‘TUESDAY GARDEN TOURS’, a free guided tour to find out about the latest goings-on in the gardens, 14.00-15.00, Cliveden, nr. Taplow. (Normal admission charges apply).(NT)

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

22:’LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHS - MARK BAUER’, Marlow Camera Club, 19:45-20:00, The Methodist Church Hall, Spittal Street, Marlow, SL7 3HJ 23: ‘WINE TASTING’ with Marlow Wine Society. Wine merchants and other experts present eight wines in an informal atmosphere, 20.00, Pugin Rooms, St Peter’s Church, St Peter Street. For more information: 01628 482299. 24: ‘LOCAL NATIONAL TRUST PROPERTIES – an update on recent investigations’, a talk for AIM (Archaeology in Marlow) by National Trust Regional Archaeologist, 20.00, Garden Room, Liston Hall. 25: ‘TINY TALK TIME’ PRESENTS ‘HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW’, a special time for under-fives includes stories, trails and craft activities, 10.30-11.30 or 13.1514.15, Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe. To book your place (£2 per child): 01494 421895.(B) 26: TRANSITION TOWN MARLOW COMMUNITY MARKET, local foods and crafts plusffree practical workshops, 09.3013.00, Liston Hall. 26:’A CHARITY PERFORMANCE’, featuring EMC Jazz (in aid of local charities), Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley on Thames, RG9 2BP. Box Office 01491 575698 26: MARLOW FC V ROYSTON TOWN, kick off 15.00, Oaktree Road, SL7 3ED. 27: ‘ST GEORGE’S DAY SERVICE OF REDEDICATION & PARADE’, with a rolling road closure between 13.00-14.00 from Riley Road car park through to Spittal Street, High Street and Causeway followed by a service at All Saints’ Church. 28: ‘BOUTIQUE CINEMA’, screening starts at 20.00 with a pre-feature comedy classic from 19.30, Clayton’s, Oxford Road. (advisable to book in advance: 01628 488404). 29: ‘TUESDAY GARDEN TOURS’, a free guided tour to find out about the latest goings-on in the gardens,14.00-15.00, Cliveden, nr. Taplow. (Normal admission charges apply).(NT)

MAY 03: ‘WINE TASTING’, a chance to sample a selection of fine wines available from Laithwaites, 10.00-16.00, at the Rebellion Brewery Shop, Bencombe Farm, Marlow Bottom, SL7 3LT. 03 -05:‘HENLEY ARTS TRAIL’, Open to the public, arts studios and exhibitions in the Henley/Twyford area - www. henleyartstrail.com 04:’BANANA’S IN PYJAMAS’, 13:00, The Hexagon, Queens Walk, Reading RG1 7UA.

Box Office 0118 9606060 05: ‘BOUTIQUE CINEMA’, screening starts at 20.00 with a pre-feature comedy classic from 19.30, Clayton’s, Oxford Road. (advisable to book in advance: 01628 488404). 05-10:’HENLEY DRAMA FESTIVAL’, Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley on Thames, RG9 2BP. Box Office 01491 575698 06: ‘REBELLION BREWERY TOURS’, all ales currently being brewed available on the night. Talks also given on brewing history and methods, 19.00-21.30, Bencombe Farm, Marlow Bottom, SL7 3LT. All welcome, £10 pp, bbq all year round! 08: ‘MONTHLY TEA DANCE’ by the Marlow Community Association, 14.00-16.00, Liston Hall. 09: ‘TINY TALK TIME’ PRESENTS ‘THE LITTLE RED HEN’, a special time for under-fives includes stories, trails and craft activities, 10.30-11.30 or 13.15-14.15, Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe. To book your place (£2 per child): 01494 421895.(B) 12: ‘BOUTIQUE CINEMA’, screening starts at 20.00 with a pre-feature comedy classic from 19.30, Clayton’s, Oxford Road. (advisable to book in advance: 01628 488404). 13: ‘THE CAMERA NEVER LIES’, a Bucks Family History talk, 19.45, Bourne End Community Centre, Wakeman Road. 17: JOIN THE SOUTH BUCKS HF WALKING CLUB for a 5 mile walk from Lane End Village car park at 10.30, going around about the area. For more information, call: Di Olden - 01494 714486. 17:‘LET’S ROCK THE MOOR’, Cookham www.letsrockthemoor.com

www.marlowmuseum.org. Pound Lane - opposite the Leisure Club HENLEY PHOTOGRAPHIC CLUB meet with a pre-arranged programme on Tuesday evenings, 20:00 - 22:00, YMCA Hall, off Waterman’s Road, Henley www.henleyphotoclub.com STANLEY SPENCER GALLERY 2nd April - 2nd November 2014 - 10:30 - 17:30 daily SPEAK SPANISH IN BEACONSFIELD Beaconsfield High School. Tuesdays 19:30. Next term starts 7th January. Suitable for all levels except beginners Free trial class. Tony on 07947 508755 anthony.mitchelmore@sky.com MAIDENHEAD OVER 30’S DISCO PARTIES every Friday, 20:30pm - 1:00 Bird Hill Golf Club, Drift Road, off Hawthorn Hill SL6 3ST MAIDENHEAD CAMERA CLUB every Tuesday, Cox Green Community Centre, 630861 MAIDENHEAD ARCHAEOLOGY SOCIETY meet last Wednesday of the month, WRVS, Maidenhead, t: 630 839 COLENORTON DRAGON BOAT CLUB Sunday 10.00 - 12.30, Bray Lake Water Sports, Maidenhead SL6 2EB www.colenorton.co.uk SOUTH BUCKS WALKING GROUP Regular walks programme days plus organise club weekends, coach rambles, and other social walking events. www.southbuckshfwalkingclub.co.uk HENLEY AND GORING RAMBLERS regular walks programme available www.ramblers-oxon.org.uk/HG.htm

ONGOING EVENTS - GENERAL

ONGOING EVENTS - MARKETS

MARLOW ART & CRAFT SOCIETY 1st Thursday in month, 19:30 Marlow Bottom Village Hall MARLOW ANTIQUE BRIC-A-BRAC FAIR meets 1st Saturday of the month at Liston Hall from 9:00 - 16:00 BUSINESS BISCOTTI - MARLOW Every second Thursday 9.30 - 11.30 Danesfield House Hotel, Marlow www.businessbiscotti.co.uk THAMES VALLEY BUSINESS WOMENS GROUP Every second Monday 19:00pm for 19:30pm start CIM, Cookham, www.TVBWG.com MARLOW MUSEUM 31st March - 31st October Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays, 13:00 - 17:00

MAIDENHEAD PRODUCE MARKET 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month on Maidenhead High Street THE FARMERS MARKET, , 2nd Sunday of the month from 10:00, Grove Street Car Park THE FARMERS MARKET, MARLOW, Dean Street Car Park last Saturday of the month, 10:00 - 14:00 BOURNE END COUNTRY MARKET PRODUCT Small Hall 10 - 12 , Every Friday HENLEY FARMERS MARKET every 4th Thursday in Falaise Square, Henley, 8:30-14:00 BOURNE END COMMUNITY AND CRAFT MARKET - second Saturday of every month 10:00 - 13:00 in the Jackson Room of Bourne End Library.

For more information/changes to schedules as listed or information please call Marlow Information Centre on 01628 483597 or LIVING ALONG THE THAMES Maidenhead Library on 01628 796969 or Henley Library on 01491 575278

Policing diaries Dear Readers, Already it has been a busy and eventful start to 2014. We had extreme wet weather to deal with which caused significant local flooding as well as there being incidents of crime to pursue and investigate. Over the past few months, we have seen a steady increase in ‘theft from motor vehicles’ throughout Maidenhead and the surrounding areas. With this sort of crime, the victims are often left out of pocket, upset and stressed out. Here are some useful tips for you to follow to ensure you don’t become a victim:

• Check your vehicle is locked and secure when unattended. • Don’t hide valuables within your vehicle – thieves know exactly where to look! • Park in a well lit area and leave your glove box open with nothing inside. • Don’t leave personal items such as bags and coats on rear seats. • Fit an alarm or immobiliser – this may reduce your insurance premiums. • Remove sat nav holders and wipe away any residue left behind. Extra patrols will continue in key hot spot locations to deter and catch offenders. For more advice, tips, updates, crime prevention ideas, news, etc. follow us on Twitter @TVP_maidenhead If you would like to contact someone from your local neighbourhood team contact our non emergency number on 101. by PCSOs Jason Miller and Abbi Ellis

TUESDAY 18TH MARCH, 4-10PM Claytons PTA is holding its first ever Boden Shopping Party to raise money for school funds. It is open to the whole community and we'd love as many people as possible to come along. A Boden shopping party gives you the opportunity to see, touch, try and buy clothes first hand from all of Boden's adult and children's clothing ranges. If you bring a new customer who's never ordered from Boden

before, you get £25 credit on your Boden account if they buy something. Customers will receive at least a 20% discount on all purchases and the first 40 people to place an order will also receive an exclusive free gift. Refreshments will be available, and we will have a raffle with the first prize of a £50 Boden voucher.. Claytons School, Wendover Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5NS (parking available in school car park and on road outside).

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Wallace & Gromit’s Big Breakfast raises funds for Wallace and Gromit’s Children’s Foundation, which supports children’s healthcare throughout the UK. Registered charity 1096483. Company number 04659630. © and ™ Aardman/Wallace & Gromit Limited 2014.

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Useful Numbers MAIDENHEAD - CLUBS Rotary Club of Maidenhead ...................................... 632797 The Maidenhead Players ............................... 07879 476301 Maidenhead Drama Guild ......................................... 635017 Maidenhead Operatic Society .................................. 671589 Maidenhead Musical Comedy Society ........... 07813979894 Grimm Players ......................................................... 820429 Maidenhead Concert Band ...................................... 624514 Maidenhead Folk Club ............................................. 448268 Tuesday Singers ...................................................... 629012 Athletics .................................................................. 522797 Maidenhead & Bray CC ................................... 7989 579899 North Maidenhead Cricket Club .............................. 624137 Rugby ...................................................................... 629663 Hockey .................................................................... 622669 Desborough Bowls Club ........................................... 629403 Rowing ..................................................................... 622664 SportsAble ............................................................... 627690 Maidenhead Tennis .................................................. 623785 Thames Valley Cycling Club ...................................... 638984 East Berks Badminton .............................................. 636283 Maidenhead Camera Club ........................................ 630861 East Berkshire Ramblers .......................................... 634561 Lions Club of Maidenhead ........................................ 634333 Maidenhead Golf Club .............................................. 624693 Five Aces Duplicate Bridge Club ............................... 625663 COOKHAM - CLUBS Tennis & Croquet ........................................... 07968 173757 Line Dancing ............................................................ 486362 Petanque ............................ ..................................... 417453 Cookham Bridge Rotary Club ........................ 07724 042708 RBWM - COUNCIL Bus Services ................................................. 0871 2002233 CIS ............................................................................ 507587 Council Tax ............................................................... 683850 Library - Cox Green ................................................... 673942 Library - Holyport Container .......................................796555 Library - Maidenhead ................................................ 796969 Recycling .................................................................. 796474 Police ............................................................ 0845 8505 505 Trains ............................................................ 0845 7000 125 Town Hall ............................................................ .... 683800 Youth & Community Centre ..................................... 685999 HOSPITALS St Mark’s Hospital .................................................... 632012 NHS Direct .......................................................... 0845 4647 St John’s Ambulance .................................... 0118 933 5500 Thames Valley Adventure Playground ...................... 628599 COOKHAM Library ....................................................................... 526147 Police ........................................................................ 531785 Bourne End & Cookham Rotary ................................ 810967 Stanley Spencer Gallery ........................................... 471885 Medical Centre ......................................................... 810242

MARLOW - CLUBS Archaeology in Marlow ............................................. 472126 Marlow Archaeological Society ................................. 523896 Bowls ........................................................................ 485274 Boxing ............................................................ 01494 532826 Crafts ........................................................... 473872/473539 Football ..................................................................... 483970 Hockey ...................................................................... 521830 Plants (Orchids) ........................................................ 486640 Petanque ................................................................... 521783 Photography .............................................................. 483030 Rugby ........................................................... 483911/477054 Running ..................................................................... 474885 Four Seasons Club .................................................... 474095 Tennis ....................................................................... 483638 New Marlow Tennis Academy ................................. 488438 Rifle & Pistol Club .......................................... 01494 676676 Longridge .................................................................. 486595 Marlow & District Wine Society ............................... 630341 Marlow Society/History ............................................ 476140 Rotary Club..................................................... 01494 530952 LETS .............................................................. 01494 523978 U3A ............................................................. 485220/488865 Operatic Society ....................................................... 475973 Community Choir ......................................... 602581/661182 Railway Society ......................................................... 486433 Choral Society ........................................................... 472998 Marlow Orators .............................................. 07738 540287 MARLOW - COUNCIL Bus Services ................................................. 0871 200 2233 Liston Hall ................................................................. 472558 Marlow Information centre .......................... 483597/481717 Library ............................................................ 0845 2303232 Town Council ............................................................ 484024 Neighbourhood Watch ..Nic Martin................ 01895 837220 Police ............................................................. 0845 8505505 Trains ............................................................. 0845 7000125 Wycombe Council .......................................... 01494 461000 MARLOW - HOSPITALS Marlow Cottage ........................................................ 482292 NHS Direct ........................................................... 0845 4647 Wycombe ...................................................... 01494 526161 MARLOW - DENTISTS Marlow Dental Centre .............................................. 486096 La Perla Clinic ........................................................... 488499 St John Ambulance ........................................ 01494 474748 BOURNE END Library ....................................................................... 524814 Community Centre ................................................... 527502 Crossword Solution -page 619 Across: 7 Unfashionable; 8 Disaster; 9 Sign; 10 Bandit; 12 Delude; 14 Mentor; 16 Revive; 18 Flaw; 20 Strength; 22 Recrimination. Down: 1 Indicate; 2 Hazard; 3 Shut; 4 Corridor; 5 Damsel; 6 Flag; 11 Tiresome; 13 Devotion; 15 Thwart; 17 Vanity; 19 Lees; 21 Rind.

We do our best to keep these numbers up to date, but if they have changed please let us know and If you would like your number added please contact us: office@AlongtheTham

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

Contributors

Harriet Subramanian Travel www.flourishpr.co.uk

Kasia Cole Fashion www.swishboutique.co.uk

Kate Robinson Health & Welbeing www.kate-robinson.co.uk

Vanessa Woolley Freelance Writer and Marlow FM presenter

Sophie Ward Health www.cookhamhomeopathy.co.uk

Phil Walker Coaching and Business www.wttresults.co.uk

Sally Todd Sally at Large www.flourishpr.co.uk

Claire Fryer Pets www.onetothree.co.uk

Claire Thomas Image Consultant www.imagineyourstyle.co.uk

HENLEY - CLUBS Henley Rowing Club .................................... 01491 573943 Henley Players ............................................. 01491 636253 Henley Hawks Rugby Club .......................... 01491 574499 Henley Cricket Club ....................................... 01491 57774 Lions Club of Henley ..................................... 01491 57671 Henley Bowling Club ..................................... 01491 57927 Henley Tennis Club ......................................01491 572230 Henley Hockey Club .................................... 01491 576988 Henley Wednesday Bridge Club .................. 01491 573958 Henley Choral Society ................................. 01491 576929 HADISC Badminton Club ............................. 01491 577909 Henley Show ............................................... 01491 410948 HENLEY - COUNCIL Henley Library ............................................... 01491 57527 Police ........................................................... 01189 536000 Henley (Townlands) Community Hospital .. 01491 637 400 Henley Town Council .................................. 01491 576982 we will happily update them. mes.co.uk

Jacky and Mark Bloomfield Country Wise www.mandjbloomfield.com

Christine Chalklin Horoscopes www.RestyleYourLife.co.uk

Jill Coleby and Vanessa Faulkner Gardening www.colebyandfaulkner.co.uk

Our thanks to everyone who provided photographs from the recent floods: Leah Newland, Mary Flavelle, John Hollidge, Rebecca Young, Udhi Silva and the 2 Squadron Royal Air Force Regiment (RAF Honington, Suffolk), who came to assist the residents of Marlow and surrounding areas.

David Rhys Price Food & Drink www.thespicychef.co.uk

Congratulations to all our winners of all our competitions in the December/ January 2014 issue WINNERS OF THE BOOK GUILD BOOKS: Stephanie Herbet, John Jones, Janice Styles CANDLE: Barbara Richardson JOICO RANGE: Sue Morris FACE OIL: Zoe Ambrose KERA STRAIGHT MASK: J.Gill DRY EYE GEl + MASKS: Suzanne Pollack BATH SALTS + LUSTRE MASK: Regina Mabon NEAL & FOX HAIRSPRAY: Sara Dawson LIVING ALONG THE THAMES

THE GREAT BRITISH CLUB ‘Top 100 Courses you must play in the World’ GOLF WORLD

‘Top 10 British Spas’ TATLER

Summer Events at Stoke Park... SIR ELTONJOHN

KATHERINE JENKINS OBE

28th June 2014

29th June 2014

SportsAid presents

www.stokepark.com/concerts

CONCERT

www.stokepark.com/concerts

17th - 21st June 2014 www.theboodles.com

Only 35 minutes from London and 7 miles from London Heathrow. For further information please contact the Events Office on 01753 717171 or by email on info@stokepark.com.