Living Along The Thames November/December 2014 edition by Living Along theThames

November - December 2014 www.AlongTheThames.co.uk

• Marlow • Maidenhead • Henley • Cookham • Bourne End

André Garrett HAT TRICK AT CLIVEDEN

Hydrate - see all the latest products for hands, hair & body Keep Warm this winter with our latest fashion

Christmas Gifts Galore • Fashion • Beauty • Home & Garden • Food • Travel Lifestyle 2014 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES |•NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

Stonor Set in the picturesque village of Stonor near Henley-on-Thames, you will find The Quince Tree.

nside the original 17th Century coaching inn there is a pub & dining rooms, café, wine bar, farm shop & food hall. If you are looking for somewhere to have coﬀee with friends, a warming brunch, pub lunch, afternoon tea or

special supper, we can oﬀer it all. With regular tastings, events and an array of speciality food & drink available in the farm shop – you can enjoy a day out in the heart of the Chilterns. Relax over a glass of wine and watch the world (and the wild deer), go by…

Meet The Quince Tree’s new Executive Head Chef: Carl Carl has over 20 years’ experience in the industry, ranging from informal pubs, to top class hotels. His last few years have been spent heading up the catering operation at The Royal Albert Hall, which included an array of restaurants, food stalls & retail outlets. Carl’s decision to join The Quince Tree stemmed from his passion for seasonal, local produce in the Oxfordshire area. ‘It was the quality and individuality of The Quince Tree which attracted me – having a pub, dining rooms, farm shop, food hall, café & wine bar – there really is everything under one roof in the most scenic location. This is the best time of year for a Chef - the crisp

Jackman

mornings, rich, deep colours, fantastic meats, game and a wide range of interesting vegetables to get creative with. Autumn & winter are the seasons for comfort food – what better way to spend a chilly dark evening than with a big bowl of homemade stew?’

Carl’s new pub & dining room menu is now available. You can ﬁnd it along with The Quince Tree’s 2014 Christmas menus at www.thequincetree.com. Call 01491 639 039 to book a table. The Quince Tree, Stonor, Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, RG9 6HE 01491 639 039 home@thequincetree.com

The Quince Tree Café, Clifton Nurseries, 5a Clifton Villas, London W9 2PH 0207 432 1867 home@thequincetree.com

Celebrate Christmas 2014 At The Quince Tree BOOKINGS & PARTIES

LATE NIGHT SHOPPING FOOD PRE-ORDERS

The Quince Tree are now taking Christmas party bookings, and for their Christmas Day feast. Visit www. thequincetree.com to view the festive menus or contact Amy Yardley at amy@thequincetree.com for more details.

The Café, wine bar, farm shop and food hall is now open until 8pm on Fridays & Saturdays. Come along and enjoy a glass of wine and light supper while you browse the Christmas gifts and goodies at your leisure.

HAMPERS

Let The Quince Tree take the hard work out of Christmas with their fresh food pre-order service. There will be a delicious range of homemade festive feast ingredients, from sauces, condiments and puddings to a fully pre-prepared Christmas lunch which can all be ordered from the farm shop.

Treat your family, friends or clients to a luxury Hamper from The Quince Tree this Christmas. Beautifully packaged in a wooden box and ﬁlled with a carefully hand-picked selection of sweet & savoury goodies and ﬁne wines. Or why not choose your own hamper? A bespoke & personal hamper makes the perfect gift for the festive season and beyond.

www.thequincetree.com

p33 p10

Inside

18 - 21. Christmas Gift Guide Christmas Spirit, days out and general gift guide. 27. Brilliant Blanc 38. Piste & Quiet in Banff, Canada See what Banff has to offer over the winter months 42. Grant writes himself off Hugh Grant chats about his latest film 44. Home and Garden 54. Stars See what your November Stars have to say about you. 55. Presents for people with pets Ideas for presents and some giveaways! 62. Henley’s Living Calender Check out what’s happening through December & how you can join in. 71. Out and About A comprehensive guide to what is on locally over the next two and half months.

p34

p64 November - December 2014 www.AlongTheThames.co.uk

• Marlow • Maidenhead • Henley • Cookham • Bourne End

André Garrett

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

HAT TRICK AT CLIVEDEN

Hydrate - see all the latest products for hands, hair & body Keep Warm this winter with our latest fashion

Christmas Gifts Galore • Fashion • Beauty • Home & Garden • Food • Travel Lifestyle 2014 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES |•NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

4 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

You can now read us on your tablet either directly from the website or by downloading the issuu.com app and bookmarking us so you never miss another issue.

November - December 2014 www.AlongTheThames.co.uk

• Marlow • Maidenhead • Henley • Cookham • Bourne End

André Garrett HAT TRICK AT CLIVEDEN

A Vivid Titles Publication

Serena Edwards Editor ADVERTISING: 01628 627 488 Office@AlongTheThames.co.uk CONTACT US: Living Along the Thames Magazines 1 Bell Street, Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL6 1BU Tel: 01628 627 488 Office@AlongTheThames.co.uk CONTRIBUTORS: Christine Chalkin, Kasia Cole, David Rhys Price, Claire Fryer, Jacky & Mark Bloomfield, ACCOUNTS: Holly Hooper 07771 883 442 Holly@hjaccounting.co.uk Keep up to date at: WWW.ALONGTHETHAMES.CO.UK subscriptions: 01628 627488 FOLLOW US: @AlongTheThames LIKE US: facebook.com/LivingAlongTheThames

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

Hydrate - see all the latest products for hands, hair & body Keep Warm this winter with our latest fashion

Christmas Gifts Galore • Fashion • Beauty • Home & Garden • Food • Travel Lifestyle 2014 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES |•NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

This month’s Front Cover: Andrẽ Garrett

welcome

to our latest edition

A warm welcome to the November/December edition. Well the clocks have gone back and hopefully, like us, you managed to enjoy that extra hour in bed. The nights are drawing in and we are now in the countdown to Winter and of course ... Christmas! We have a jam packed edition with lots of ideas for Christmas gifts, ranging from those very special tipples to days out and just a large list of other great ideas. We hope you get some inspiration from this list as much as we enjoyed putting it together. We also have some different ideas for those friends or members of family who have pets and you never know what to get them, well hopefully this will give you a few thoughts as to what to choose for them. We are also showcasing some coats and ponchos to keep you warm this Winter and a number of beauty products to keep you hydrated through the long cold Winter months. I’d like to thank all the people who write for the magazine on a regular basis and of course our advertisers and wish them and their families a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. We hope you all manage to get a break and start 2015 feeling well rested. Our next deadline is 5th December and we will be featuring health and well-being, so please get in touch if you would like to know more. There is so much more in this edition that I could ramble on forever, so best I just let you put your feet up, get a cup of coffee and see for yourself what else is on offer. If you have any feedback for us we’d love to hear it, email us at office@ alongthethames.co.uk. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all! Until then, happy reading………………

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

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.

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 5

Advertising Feature

Choose the perfect time for Christmas ... with Christopher Ward ased in the heart of Maidenhead, independent British luxury watch company Christopher Ward have established a quiet revolution in watchmaking, challenging the major Swiss brands through an unparalleled combination of quality, value and service. With their own UK in-house design team and dedicated Swiss workshops guaranteeing ‘Swiss Made’ quality, Christopher Ward give watch enthusiasts access to levels of technical quality previously limited to only the most elite, and expensive, brands in the world. The company’s stylish portfolio of men’s and women’s watches provides a range of styles to suit any occasion – from classic Dress pieces to robust Diver’s watches and dynamic expressions of Motoring and Aviation heritage, including a truly stunning selection of Limited Edition watches. The Women’s collection offers a stunning selection of styles to suit any occasion,

including a choice colour and strap options to coordinate with any outﬁt – such as the elegant simplicity of the Emily range and the stunning Art Deco style of the Belisama range. Your time to choose... You can view and select from the full Christopher Ward collection online any time at www.christopherward.co.uk - but nothing beats traditional personal service. The Christopher Ward showroom is a stylish, relaxed lounge where you can enjoy a fully personalised shopping experience. Guided by your own personal watch consultant, you can explore the Christopher Ward collection and also arrange for bespoke adjustments such as bracelet resizing, and movement regulation to be completed during your visit, ensuring a truly memorable and personalised Christmas gift. A deluxe gift boxing service option is offered and personalised engraving can be added on most models, with notice. The showroom has attracted Christopher

THE C9 5 DAY AUTOMATIC. this model is part of British watchmaking history as it is powered by Calibre SH21, Christopher Ward’s own in-house movement, launched earlier this year (much to the absolute astonishment of the major Swiss brands that dominate luxury watchmaking!). Aesthetically beautiful but also a remarkable piece of engineering - and its 120-hour power reserve is an exceptional feature.

Ward enthusiasts from around the world – the brand sells in over 100 countries. You might even get the opportunity to meet Chris Ward, co-founder of the company – Chris comments: “A showroom appointment is the perfect way to ﬁnd the perfect watch, either for yourself or a loved one. We ensure that your bespoke session is a wonderful concierge-style personal experience and, especially when it’s done as a surprise for the recipient to make their choice from our collections, it becomes a memorable extension to the gift. And for watch lovers, it’s like having the keys to the shop!” It’s a gift we have... Celebrating their 10th anniversary this year, Christopher Ward’s focus on delivering exceptional technical quality combined with original design provides some truly outstanding pieces – here are a few highlights from the current collections (most models offer a selection of colour options):

C70 D-TYPE Commemorating the stunning series of Jaguar D-Type victories at Le Mans in the 1950s, this sleek Limited Edition model is authentic motoring heritage on the wrist – a perfect gift for any motorsport fan.

C60 TRIDENT PRO (BLACK) FOR HIM (OR HER), the iconic Trident range has become a global favourite among watch enthusiasts. This highperformance dive watch – rugged enough for a dive boat and stylish enough for Christmas cocktails has a heart of pure Swiss precision and offers a versatile range of colour and strap permutations.

C9 JHIII And for those who want to stand out from the crowd... without standing out, of course... Behind the absolutely intriguing and classically elegant dial of the C9 Jumping Hour Mk III beats an automatic movement modiﬁed by Christopher Ward’s own master watchmaker, Johannes Jahnke.

60:60 GUARANTEE - Your Christopher Ward experience doesn’t end in the showroom. Backed by exceptional customer service, the Christopher Ward 60:60 guarantee provides a 5-year guarantee on every watch movement, backed by a 60-days ‘no quibble’ returns policy that enables you to ensure you’re fully satisﬁed with your choice of watch.

Share some personal time with Christopher Ward this Christmas! Showroom hours, strictly by appointment only: Normal hours are Mon to Fri 10am – 5pm. & Christmas extra hours: Thur 10-8pm and also Saturdays before Christmas (15 Nov-20 Dec) 10am-4pm To reserve your private session please call 01628 763040 or email declan@christopherward.co.uk You’ll ﬁnd the Christopher Ward showroom behind the yellow door of No.1 Park Street Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL6 1SL

6 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 7

ENJOY THE FESTIVE SEASON with Crowne Plaza Marlow

Crowne Plaza Marlow invites you to experience a festive season you’ll remember. From ‘Join a Party’ Nights, to bespoke Christmas events, the stunning lakeside venue, set in 5 acres of beautiful countryside, is sure to add a touch of magic to your festivities. CHRISTMAS TRIBUTE NIGHTS

A night of top class entertainment from amazing tribute acts: The Jersey Guys Wednesday, 10th December Oh What a Night – 70s Night Wednesday, 17th December Blast from the Past – 80s Night Saturday, 27th December £32.95 per person including Tribute Band, disco and 2 course meal.

‘JOIN A PARTY’ NIGHTS*

The perfect solution for groups of friends, colleagues or clients, ‘Join a Party Nights’ are a great option for smaller parties looking for a big party atmosphere. £42.95 per person including 3 course buffet and disco.

FESTIVE FAMILY SUNDAY LUNCH AND KIDS’ CHRISTMAS PARTY, WITH SANTA’S GROTTO**

Join us this Christmas for a festive celebration for the whole family, with a Festive Carvery Buffet, Kids’ Christmas Party, face painting, disco and entertainer. With a visit from Father Christmas who’ll be in his grotto. Sunday, 7th December and Sunday, 14th December 12.30pm – 5pm (Kids’ Christmas Party: 2pm – 5pm**) £24.95 per adult; £14.95 per child (3-12 years old); 0-2 years old FREE

CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH

Let Crowne Plaza Marlow’s Executive Chef create you a sumptuous traditional three course Christmas Lunch, while you celebrate your Christmas in style with your family and friends. £79.95 per person; £34.95 per child (3 – 12 years old); 0-2 years old FREE

BOXING DAY LUNCH

After the hectic festive season, sit back, relax and enjoy a sumptuous carvery Boxing Day Lunch, with a glass of Prosecco or Virgin Mary cocktail on arrival. £24.95 per person £14.95 per child (3 – 12 years old); 0-2 years old FREE

NEW YEAR’S EVE

See out the old and bring in the new in the stunning surroundings of Crowne Plaza Marlow, with a firework finale over the lake at midnight to see in 2015! NEW YEAR’S EVE GALA BALL £89.95 per person including Glass of Bubbly, 4 course dinner, live band, disco and firework finale. NEW YEAR’S EVE BUFFET £49.95 per person £29.50 per child; 0-2 years old FREE Please note that Glaze Restaurant closes at 10pm. ‘agua bar’ NEW YEAR’S EVE DISCO £25.00 per person including disco and firework finale at midnight Strictly over 21s only.

There’s something special about the Festive Season at Crowne Plaza Marlow. Call 01628 496 860 to speak to one of our Christmas Events Co-ordinators today. Crowne Plaza Marlow Fieldhouse Lane, Marlow, Buckinghamshire, SL7 1GJ T: + 44 (0)1628 496 860; E: christmas@cpmarlow.co.uk W: cpmarlow.co.uk Postcode for Sat Nav: SL7 1LU *Please check our website for availability. **Please note, the Kids’ Christmas Party is only available to children who have attended the Festive Family Lunch. Terms and Conditions apply.

8 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Advertising Feature

Hat trick for André Garrett at Cliveden Three red rosettes rating for Cliveden in the AA 2015 Restaurant Guide, was a perfect way to complete a month of ‘gongs’ at Cliveden House, which started with the award of ‘Restaurant Newcomer of the Year’ and ‘Top 20’ restaurant ranking for André Garrett in the 2015 edition of the Waitrose Good Food Guide. This was then followed by Cliveden House being designated one of the ‘Top 100 Hotels in the World’ in the Fodor’s Travel Awards and on Monday 22nd September, Cliveden was awarded three red rosettes by the AA in their 2015 Restaurant Guide. This is a fabulous hat-trick for Cliveden and its new restaurant, André Garrett at Cliveden House, which since its opening less than 11 months ago in late November 2013 has received tremendous acclaim from diners and restaurant critics alike. In their review of the restaurant, the AA inspectors summed up the dining experience at Cliveden as: “Stunning dishes in a stately home with a past... A chef would easily get lost here, but André Garrett has his wits about him and knows how to impress a knowledgeable clientele. Dishes are presented exquisitely, mobilising stunning ingredients. There is fine technique on show amidst all the refinement.” The wine list was also described as a: “Class act, with excellent advice on hand from the sommelier”. Commenting on his success in the recent awards, André Garrett said: “Moving from London to the countryside was a big career and personal decision for me, but I have never been happier. The history and glamour of Cliveden House have been a huge inspiration to me I am always conscious of our guests’ expectations when visiting such a grand house, and my food somewhat sits in two camps – respecting the classical traditions, but being light and modern wherever possible, too.” André would be thrilled to welcome you to his restaurant during the festive season. Cliveden is the perfect place to enjoy a special dining experience with friends or family. The Festive Lunch menu is priced at £40.00 for 3 courses and is available from Monday to Saturday from 24th November. To book the André Garrett Restaurant or to take advantage of all the other facilities and gift vouchers call 01628 668561 or visit www.clivedenhouse.co.uk. Cliveden House, Taplow, Berkshire SL6 0JF

Stunning Stoke Park

toke Park is a wonderful estate, sitting virtually on our doorstep in Stoke Poges, housing one of the country’s finest hotels and Spa’s which offers a fantastic five star experience for all its visitors. Most of us may recognise Stoke Park from the silver screen as it has featured in many famous films such as Bridget Jones, Layer Cake and Tomorrow Never Dies to name but a few but it perhaps the Bond film Goldfinger for which it is best known. The opening scene from the film features the famous golf game between Bond and Goldfinger, played on the Stoke Park course, and at the end of the game sees Oddjob, Goldfinger’s man servant, decapitate a statue with his flying steel rimmed bowler hat. It is reassuring to note that the statue is still there to this day and that its head has been fully restored following Oddjob’s demonstration with his lethal hat. Upon arrival and driving through the magnificent grounds you can quickly tell that Stoke Park is stepped in history. It has been home to royals and aristocrats and the famous prosecutor, Edward Coke, who coined the phrase “an Englishman’s home is his castle”. But it was the scholar and poet John Penn who is largely responsible for the estate and mansion that exist today building the family mansion when he was High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire in the late 1700’s. Stoke Park, is quintessentially English and everything that you would expect from a Country Park Hotel. Perfect for a romantic mini-break weekend or just the time to relax and unwind in a quiet and beautiful setting, with the opportunity to relax within the grounds or in the Spa. All the rooms in the Mansion House are comfortable and opulent, individually designed and finished with fine art, antiques, large comfortable beds, marble bathrooms including a monsoon shower and Pecksniff ’s products. Some of the magnificently appointed suites also have their own private terrace along with beautiful views across the golf course and grounds. There are also twenty one rooms in the more modern Pavilion which is also home to the Spa and the other sports facilities Stoke has to offer. The hotel features three restaurants the relaxed yet 10 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

elegant Orangery, the Italian brasserie, San Marco and the 3AA Rosettes starred restaurant, Humphry’s, which is under the watchful eye of Executive Chef Chris Wheeler serving modern British cuisine with European influences. Humphrey’s offers an a la carte menu or a tasting menu where you can be treated to a gastronomic delight of different flavours over 8 courses. From starting with the Amuse Bouche of smoked salmon thinly sliced and marinated in beetroot to finishing the meal with an English Raspberry Souffle everything is beautifully served with amazing attention to detail. Chris Wheeler has devised a menu which features great English produce that are brought to life with some wonderful combinations that challenge your senses. The tasting menu contains delights such as Home smoked scallops with a warm watercress salad nicoise, Roasted Duck Breast with apple and celeriac Rosti, caramelized apples and calvados jus and Pan fried Pave of sea Bass with a leek, butternut squash and sorrel risotto. Chris has also brought a local twist to a traditional Cannon of New season lamb with slow roasting Osso Bucoit is served with a Windsor ale and then presenting that with rosemary and garlic roasted root vegetables.

All guests enjoy complimentary use of the Tennis (home to The Boodles competition in June each year) and Health Pavilion, offering a state of-the-art gymnasium with fitness studios. Golfers can enjoy the 27 hole Championship golf course, designed by Harry Colt in 1908. Or if you prefer to go for a walk around the estate there are maps available from reception. The Spa has been awarded the 5 Bubble Spa Award for excellence in both facilities and treatments and is a peaceful place to relax and rejuvenate in one of the11 treatment rooms (using Thalgo and Terrake treatments), the relaxation room, heated indoor pool with hydro-seats, or to be pampered at the newly opened nail bar. Stoke Park is family friendly with indoor and outdoor activities to hand, for all ages, including splash times in the pool, indoor creche, outdoor play area, new indoor games room, on-demand movies and video games to name a few. There is something for everyone, so if you are interested in staying at the Mansion or Pavilion Hotels, or just to come and use the Spa and Hotel facilities and have a once in a lifetime visit then visit www.stokepark/com or call 01753 717171 for more information on this, or perhaps membership, you won’t be disappointed.

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 11

Advertising Feature

Westmount Music Shop five years on ... One year on from our last music feature and we thought we’d catch up with the team at Westmount Music in Marlow. Every time we visit, the shop is always busy and this time is no exception: lessons in the back room, kids having a ukulele demonstration in one corner, guitar testing and piano renditions in another – it looks like the festive season is in full swing. Owner Paul appears with coffees in hand and a grin, “it’s the new coffee machine… that’s the secret. We entice people in with the smell of coffee beans. I actually hope to open a Buskers Café one day, so I guess this is one way of testing the market!” Westmount is this year celebrating their 5th Christmas as Marlow’s music shop. They remain at their base in Marlow Bottom, but have also recently acquired an extra premises nearby specifically for hosting lessons on a number of instrument disciplines, “Our tutoring has grown substantially in the last year so it’s nice to make the move to a larger premises around the corner from the shop and we plan to build two extra tutor rooms in the New Year”. As well as establishing a successful tutoring service, the shop has also expanded the range of instruments in store, with an increase of keyboards, digital pianos and home recording on display.

Paul continues, “We’ve streamlined our Sheet Music to open up space for new lines. It is important that we are selective with the brands and products that we represent in store, as there is only so much we can fit in the actual shop, so we also have a large online catalogue from which we can order from, to give customers more choice, at the best prices, with our value added service”. It is evident that Westmount are determined to stay ahead of the competition, as Paul demonstrates their website from a purpose built iPad display on the shop floor, “A major competitor is The Internet. We understand the convenience of shopping online, and believe we can offer more. As well as our price match promise, we also offer 0% interest free credit and free delivery to the UK over £25. We hope that this, combined with our expert advice and after sales service, will tip the balance in our favour for those looking for a combination of convenience and customer care.” So, if you’re planning anything musical this Christmas, or fancy a free taster lesson in guitar, ukulele, saxophone, piano, drums or singing, why not stop by for a coffee and a chat with the friendly team at Wesmount Music. For more information on booking a music lesson or gift vouchers call 01628 481510 or visit www.westmount-music. co.uk Otehrwise come and visit us in-store and have abrowse, 4 Brucewood Parade, Marlow Bottom. SL7 3LX | 01628 481510

Deliver The Gift Of Music This Christmas … Say it with albumcards. Everyone wants to buy a great Christmas present, so why not relive memories or create new ones by sending your mum or dad, favourite auntie, best mate or even your office secret Santa a personalised card with an album you know they’ll love. It’s a gift and a card with a personal touch. Albumcards makes choosing and sending this gift so easy, in 3 simple steps, priced at £10 or less: Go to www.albumcards.com. 1. Pick (the album you want to send), 2. Personalise (your greetings card) and 3. Post (to arrive on the exact day you choose). Even better, order your albumcard before 2pm and it can be delivered the next day. It couldn't be simpler to redeem and listen to the album you have gifted. By entering a unique code at 12 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

albumcards.com the album can be downloaded on any device they choose – with a sound qualitythat is a stunning MP3 320kbps! Various artists to choose from, shown bwlow are a selection of available.

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 13

“In the deep mid-winter Frosty winds may moan. Earth stands hard as iron, water like stone” The Christmas tree forest at Stubbings Nursery awaits the arrival of Father Christmas - descending by helicopter at 11am sharp on Saturday 29th November (weather permitting). Excited children throng the lawn of the Estate as the red cloaked figure emerges from the Helicopter, his beard blowing in the wind. Tractor and trailer await, silently, in the field bringing him to the Nursery where he joins grownups for a free glass of mulled wine as they browse the Christmas Emporium full of Christmas decorations and gifts whilst the children (12 and under) await their turn to receive a small gift brought to them all the way from the Northern climes (no doubt!). Parents wander through the forest of Christmas trees

selecting and reserving the tree of choice from the widest range of trees in the Thames Valley: Nordman, Noble, Fraser, Korean Fir, Norway, Englemann, Blue Spruce and Lodgepole Pine etc. Pot grown varieties to plant in the garden in the New Year or the everlasting artificial trees. All can be reserved and delivered closer to Christmas. The seasonal fayre of the Café awaits tired legs and will be in full swing with hot drinks, mince pies and ‘lite’ lunches accompanied by seasonal music. Mistletoe and holly grown on the adjoining Estate together with the widest selection of Christmas Wreaths will tempt shoppers with prices ranging from the cheapest to the amazing full, fruit-laden, wreaths hand prepared in the floral studio of Richard Elder.

NOWHERE COMPARES TO CHRISTMAS AT STUBBINGS WE TRY HARDER!

www.stubbingsnursery.co.uk

Stubbings Nursery Ltd, Stubbings Estate, Henley Road, Maidenhead, Berkshire SL6 6QL tel: 01628 825454 | fax: 01628 822656 | email: info@stubbingsnursery.co.uk

Free Parking Open 7 days a week

14 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Christmas

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 15

Advertising Feature

New Stock at Emmett & Stone Country Stores Emmett and Stone is delighted to have been appointed a local distributor for the old English brand, Cogswell & Harrison, and are looking forward to welcoming customers instore.

The history of Cogswell & Harrison makes a fascinating story. The business was established by Mr. Benjamin Cogswell in May 1770 at 4 Bengal Place, New Kent Road, London. He could not have imagined that even past the millennium, shooting sportsmen worldwide would be familiar

with his name. In 1863 Benjamin Cogswell (Jr) took Edward Harrison into partnership at 224 Strand, London. B. Cogswell became “Cogswell & Harrison” In 2008 the company was acquired by the Brennan family and incorporated into Ardee Sports Company based in Ireland. The bespoke side by side on display was completed in 2012 and is the first gun manufactured by Cogswell & Harrison in the 21st Century. It establishes Cogswell & Harrison as a gun manufacturer in four different centuries. Cogswell & Harrison is being re-launched as a gun manufacturer with the re-introduction of the CERTUS rifle and the new addition of the WINDSOR shotgun. There are many new developments to follow. Come and visit us at Wilton Farm, Marlow Road, Little Marlow, SL7 3RR, where we are open from Monday to Saturday or give us a call 01628 474187.

WRIST BO

BOING Wristbands Unique, durable and amazing quality, these wristbands are made from topgrade climbing and sailing rope with a strong magnetic stainless steel clasp each band comes in a quirky BOING tin, making them the perfect gents gift.

www.boing-inc.com

(Bands shown are £35 each, prices range from £25-£40)

16 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Visit us any time! You’ll ﬁnd everything from sturdy footwear and country clothing, to scopes, binoculars, guns for beginners and experts alike.

Christmas Gifts In Store Your local country sports experts

9am - 5pm Mon - Sat

Wilton Farm

Marlow Road Little Marlow

Bucks SL7 3RR sales@escountrysports.co.uk

01628 474 187

www.emmettandstoneshop.co.uk LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 17

Christmas Spirit ...

HIGHLAND PARK DARK ORIGINS

LAPHROAIG SELECT

Highland Park’s new core expression, Dark Origins, is the ideal gift for those long winter nights. Dark Origins offers a naturally dark, rich flavour with sherried spice, a chocolate twist and the signature sweet smoke that fans of the Orcadian elixir have come to know and love. Highland Park Dark Origins is available in select whisky retailers including Harrods (RRP £65). www. highlandpark.co.uk

Fans of Laphroaig’s trademark ‘peat reek’ will love the latest addition to the portfolio, Laphroaig Select. The new expression offers a deep, smoky taste yet surprises the palate with a gentle sweetness. Laphroaig Select is available in retailers including Morrison, www.thewhiskyexchange. com and www.masterofmalt.com (RRP £34.99). www.laphroaig.com

HIGHLAND PARK 12 YEAR OLD

ABERFELDY 16 YEARS OLD SINGLE CASK

Highland Park 12 Year Old is the ideal dram for fans of flavour and the perfect accompaniment for your Christmas pudding this festive season. This single malt boasts a honey sweetness, followed by fruity notes with a hint of gentle smoke. Highland Park 12 Year Old is available at multiple retailers including Tesco, Waitrose, Sainsbury’s, Asda, Morrisons and Co-op (RRP £34.04). www.highlandpark.co.uk BENRIACH 1995 17 YEAR OLD This cask-strength BenRiach was initially matured for 16 years in ex-bourbon barrels followed by an additional ‘finishing’ period of one year in virgin American Oak barrels. A limited edition single malt Scotch whisky crafted from hand-selected casks which combined to produce this exclusive bottling for The Whisky Shop. (RRP £85) www. whiskyshop.com THE MACALLAN GOLD The first expression in The 1824 Series, The Macallan Gold, is the perfect gift for your loved one this Christmas. Showcasing the single malt’s natural colour, The Macallan Gold has notes of vanilla followed by dark chocolate, with lingering floral and light oak notes. The Macallan Gold is available in multiple retailers including Tesco, Waitrose, Sainsbury’s, Asda and Morrisons (RRP £37.63). www. themacallan.com

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From the Highland distillery, Aberfeldy 16 Years Old Single Cask is exclusive to The Whisky Shop. Distilled in 1996 and selected for individual bottling from a single refill American oak ex-sherry hogshead cask in 2013 at natural cask strength, this is a mellow whisky with herbal notes and a trace of orange peel. A smooth texture and a sweet taste, with light acidity and beeswax, and a long warming finish. (RRP £145) www. whiskyshop.com HAIG CLUB Developed in partnership between Diageo, global sporting icon David Beckham and British entrepreneur Simon Fuller, Haig Club is a new single grain whisky from Cameronbridge distillery in Scotland using three cask types.Haig Club exudes a fresh, clean style and an ultrasmooth taste, with delicious notes of butterscotch and toffee making it enjoyable served neat, over ice or in a long, refreshing cocktail. (RRP £45) www.whiskyshop.com

JACK DANIEL’S SINGLE BARREL ENGRAVED BOTTLE Celebrate the festive season by gifting a personalised bottle of Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel. Whether engraved with a name, unique message, or simply ‘Happy Holidays’, a personalised bottle of this rare and crafted whiskey makes the perfect gift for the special someone in your life.( RRP £47) (the engraving cost is free) www.whiskyshop.com/jd-engraving

GRAHAM’S 10 YEAR OLD TAWNY PORT This 10 Year Old Tawny is rich with nuts and figs. Its mature flavours match perfectly with sweet desserts, especially dark chocolate with ginger or orange notes. Alternately, for the perfect gift, pair with a box of salted caramels.. Available:Waitrose, Tesco, Sainsbury’s & Ocado (75cl) RRP £20.00

GRAHAM’S NE OUBLIE 1882 This extraordinary wine has been bottled in an individually numbered (only 656), hand-made crystal decanter with three sterling silver bands adorning the glass. The decanter is presented in a bespoke presentation box handcrafted with the finest leathers by quintessentially British brand Smythson of Bond Street. Available from selected wine merchants around the world, at the Graham’s Port Lodge and via application on http://neoublie.grahams-port.com (RRP approx. £5,000)

Christmas Gifts ... Days Out

Adopt A Vine with Wine at Three Choirs Vineyards in Hampshire.

Includes: A certificate of adoption (valid for a year), A name plate to put on the vine of their choice, A glass of wine each to toast their new vine, A bottle of wine to take home from a carefully selected list, 10% discount on wine purchases, Free entry to the vineyard, Guided tour of the winery and wine tasting at 2.30pm daily, £39.50 or with a two course lunch £89.50 www.three-choirs-vineyards.co.uk

Lords Family Tour

Bring the family to the behind the scenes tour of the World’s most famous cricket ground. The Family Tour of Lord’s lets you visit all the off-limits areas of ‘The Home of Cricket’ and you will discover the fascinating story of the sport as the MMC museum helps bring 400 years of history to life. For further details - £48 - visit www. virginexperiencedays.co.uk

Wine & Spirit Education Trust

GIVE THE GIFT OF TOP GEAR Track (WSET) and treat someone experience to a lifetime of wine discovery. Vouchers are available for various individual experiences: Available through 160 course Star in a Reasonably Priced Car – £175 providers nationwide. Prices Star in a Reasonably Priced Car: Short Circuit – £85, Ariel for the introductory WSET Atom – £135, Hot Lap – £60, Hot lap with The Stig – £99, Level 1 Award in Wines Off-Road – £85, Hot Hatch Heaven – £90, Off-Road 17s begin at £145 and no prior and Under – £45/£90 wine knowledge is required. Dates are available throughout the year and vouchers can For further details about the be bought from www.topgeartrackexperience.com range of WSET courses, visit www.WSETglobal.com.

Classic Thames Cruise with Lunch

Michelin starred Kinloch Lodge Hotel

Soak up the atmosphere on Isle of Skye has a range of luxury festive gift packages. Perfect the river and take in some of for… The fervent foodie in your life or that special someone who London’s most famous sights deserves a relaxing and luxury break with some of Scotland’s finest with this Classic Thames food and scenery on tap. Gift packages can be tailor-made or off Sunday Lunch Cruise for Two (3 the peg… courses from a set menu). You’ll choose from either Parisian boat Choose from Wonderful Winter Escapes, Gastronomic Getaways Symphony, or the Scandinavian- – cookery workshops that give real insight into a Michelin starred kitchen, Pampering Packages and Outdoor Pursuits that include designed Harmony for this foraging, fishing and wild life tracking with Skye Ghillie. unforgettable experience – £109 - For further details visit www. Gift packages start at £99, for your own tailor-made gift voucher virginexperiencedays.co.uk contact Kinloch Lodge on reservations@kinloch-lodge.co.uk LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 19

Christmas Gift Guide 6

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1. Burton Sous Vide - British made for tender, delicate food; 5L available in a variety of colours from £399.00 for stainless steel - www. burtonsousvide.co.uk 2. Nescafe Dolce Gusto Jovio - chic and cute in three colours from £89.99 (pods from £3.68 for up to sixteen pods) - www.dolce-gusto.co.uk 3. Venice Spa Gift Hamper £34.99 (excluding delivery) - Beautiful products for pampering - www.virginiahaywood.com 4. Fro the Love of Chocolate £29.99 (excluding delivery) - delicious for the chocolate lover - www.virginiahaywood.com 5. Grey Sherling hat - £35.00 - www.brandalley.co.uk 6. Animal Scarf from T.M. Lewin - £25.00 - www.tmlewin.co.uk 7. Reindeer Jumpers for men (£19.99) and women (£14.99), other styles available - www.getthelabel.com 8. Personlised marble and Cumbrian slate boards, available in a range/ shape form £35.00 (including gift wrapping and p&p. UK only), plus a Cumbrian slate cheese knife, engraved one/both sides for £35.00 www.marbletree.co.uk 9. Jamie Oliver Pizza Stone - £18.00 - www.ocado.com 10. Mixed artist pet mugs - many designs from £9.00 for a standard (250ml) bone china mug. All can be personalised for an additional £5.00 - www.msmugs.com 11. Brandy Warmer - £19.95 - for the man/woman who wants to release the full aroma and potency of a fine brandy - www.houseofbath.co.uk 12. Raisthorpe Manor Damson Port Liqueur perfect for Christmas 35cl/70cl: £16.00/£22.00. For this and other beautiful Britih products - www.raisthorpemanor.com 13. Modern Shoe Shine, including polish,brush, cloth and shoe horn - £9.99 - www.whsmith.co.uk 14. Sunglasses from Maui Jim - many styles and shapes for both men and women with patented, colour enhancing Polarized Plus2® - www. mauijim.com 15. Rokform V3 Phone Golf Shooter for Apple iPhone 4/4S - get a precise, consistent, down the line view of your golf swing - £59.99 - www. casehut.com 16. Kuo+ bike from A2B.- £1,299 - technology with German precision, sleek and modern with comfort and style in mind - www.wearea2b.com 17. ABW Christmas Hamper - £99.00 - Filled with eight best sellers, perfect fot the woman in your life who loves to be pampered! - www. abeautifulworld.co.uk 18. Macaron Bath Fizzers - £9.95 - www.houseofbath.co.uk 19. Marc Jacobs Daisy Dream Gift Set 50ml - £46.99 - www. fragrancedirect.co.uk 20. Katarina cosmetic bag - bright and stylish - £7.99 - www.whsmith.co.uk 21. Boss gift set night and day 30ml, perfect for the man who travels £41.00 - www.fragrancedirect.co.uk 22. Dove Men and care gift tin - £5.00 - www.very.co.uk and other retailers.

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27 Great travel size products 23. Bluebeards Revenge mantastic gift set. Contains eau 28 de toilette and shower gel 29 £24.99 - www.shaving-shack.com 24. 001 Signature gift set comprising all your favourites form 001 in a beautiful gift box - £140.00 - www.001skincare.com 25. Orla Keily animal leather Tilda coin purse in toffee from www. rollingluggage.com - £99.00 26. Elephant cufflinks from T.M. Lewin - £19.50 - www.tmlewin.co.uk 27. Black rectangle cufflinks from T.M. Lewin - £25.00 - www.tmlewin.co.uk 28. Rose gold filagree bangle - £57.00 - www.tresorparis.co.uk 29. Rose gold and black leather strap watch - £695.00 - www.tresorparis. co.uk 30. Swan silver popcorn maker for those nights in with the girls - £30.24 www.maplin.co.uk 31. NowTV Box powered by Sky, turning your TV inot a smart TV for £9.99. The service works on a pay as you go basis and several packages are available, such as sports or films for example - www.nowtv.com 32. Kobo Aura H2O is the first water proof e-reader that can sustain up to one metre depth for a total of 30 minutes - £139.99 - www.whsmith.co.uk and www.kobo.com 33. Suki case by Covert for smartphone and tablets - £19.99 - £34.99 available in a variety of colours (purple shown). To see if your model of phone/tablet fits visit www.casehut.com 34. Apple Macbook 11”, 13” and 15” - impact snap, stylish and slim fitting from www.tech21.com 35. Rookie Skates - have become increasingly popular as a fun and sociable way to get fit and tone up - variety of designs availablr from retro 70’s to urban strreet style - £79.99 to £89.99 - www.skatehut.co.uk 36. Wicked Carbon - British flying toys - RRP £00 - www.wickedvision.co.uk 37. Flex Neck Lighter (£14.50) and hand warmer (20.75), perfect for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts, in black/matte and chrome from www.zippo.co.uk 38. Journals of a Lifetime - Dear Mum, Dad, Grandad, Sister, Brother etc with fun and inspitring questions for storytelling - www.fromyoutome.com 39. Manfrotto Photographic bags - The BR10 Sling dove Style - the ultimate camera bag for photographers, perfect to reach into, ease of use plus it will take all of your other gadgets, such as an 11” notebook and your phone, for example. The bag comes with padded shoulder straps - a great Christmas gift for students & photograhers - www.manfrotto.co.uk

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Entrance Exams

Give the Gift of Water Confidence This Christmas!

hould your children prepare for entrance exams over Christmas? Advice from the Girls’ Schools Association The Christmas holiday is here, but hot on its heels come the entrance tests and examinations for many schools. Should you insist that your daughter revises, tackles practice papers or even has lessons with a tutor throughout the holiday? How much time off should you allow her? Will her examination preparation be harmed by a break? As in most things, moderation is the best approach. The Christmas holiday is traditionally a time for families and good food, fun and treats. Your daughter needs these more than ever at such a stressful time. If you spend the whole holiday reminding her about revision and exam practice, she will be resentful and family quarrels may erupt. Also, bear in

This Christmas, give your little one the gift of water confidence by joining baby swimming classes with Water Babies, the UK’s leading baby and toddler swim school Whether you’re a mum, dad or grandparent, it’s magical spending oneon-one time with a much loved child in the relaxed environment of a warm swimming pool, learning a new skill while you bond

mind that it is very difficult - if not impossible - to transform, through last minute cramming, a girl who is not particularly able to the standard required for entry to a very selective academic school. Indeed, if such a girl were to pass the entrance examination she might suffer years of misery struggling to keep up. The best preparation is plenty of TLC, some quiet reading of good fiction (a very good way to prepare for English tests) and possibly just a little revision of any specific points which may be causing her anxiety. However, if that revision causes stress, stop at once. Your daughter needs a holiday; she needs to have fun over Christmas and New Year. After that, she can return to study, refreshed and positive, ready to face whatever the exams may bring. Advice from head teachers in the Girls’ Schools Association: www.gsa.uk.com

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 provide parents with a uniquely individual approach based on investing in highly experienced and qualiﬁed staff who combine to create a family atmosphere.

and laugh together. While Water Babies lessons are fun for both grown-ups and little ones, the course will also help your child learn a potentially lifesaving skill. Prices start from £150 for a ten week term, including attendance at an underwater photo shoot. To find a class near you and for more information on the benefits of baby swimming, visit www. waterbabies.co.uk.

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

Pots and Pinot, Pizza and Presents! Why not combine your Christmas shopping with a get together with friends at our adults only Pots and Pinot evenings? Every Thursday in November & December paint your personalised presents whilst enjoying a glass of wine with friends. You can also order pizza for your table! Call us to book your table from 6pm onwards Don’t forget you can also get your Christmas items painted during our usual opening hours...

If you would like to know more about us then please visit our website or call to arrange an appointment

Tel: 01628 488114

Monday (December only) 10am - 6pm Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 6pm Sunday 10am - 4pm

www.marlowdaynursery.co.uk The Marlow Day Nursery,Sandygate Road, Marlow,SL7 3AZ

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Visit www.haahoosceramics.co.uk for more details.

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Christmas Cocktail Hour

We’ve put together some cocktails for you to enjoy this festive season in association with Tanqueray, London Dry Gin and Licor 43, a smooth golden Spanish Liqueur. The Snowflake Ball

Winter Tanqueray Collins

Ingredients: 50ml Tanqueray London Dry Gin 15mllemon juice 15ml lime juice 1Ž2 an egg white 15ml double cream 3 dashes of orange flower water 15ml sugar syrup Top with soda & cinnamon powder Method Add all ingredients but the soda to a shaker and half fill with cubed ice. Shake! And keep shaking until the ice has nearly all gone – strain into a hiball glass with no ice and top with soda until it begins to foam over the top of the glass. Garnish with cinnamon powder.

Ingredients: 50ml Tanqueray London Dry Gin 15ml Sugar Syrup Fever Tree Soda Water Whole Fresh Lemon Whole Fresh Pear Method: Fill a hi-ball glass with ice cubes. Cut a fresh lemon in half and squeeze the juice into a shaker, add half a pear and muddle in the shaker. Pour in the Tanqueray and syrup and shake hard to break up the pear. Strain into the glass and top up with newly opened bottle of soda, decorate with a lemon wedge and slice of pear, then enjoy.

Christmas Southside Ingredients: 35ml Tanqueray London Dry 15ml Sugar Syrup 25ml Fresh Lemon Juice 8 Fresh Mint Leaves 10 Frozen Cranberries 25ml Cranberry Juice Method: Add all the ingredients (apart from the cranberry juice) to a highball and mix together with crushed ice, float the cranberry juice Top with a sprig of mint

Tanqueray London Gin available at Major Food & Drink retailers. Licor 43 available from Cellar Trends www.cellartrends.co.uk

Cran de Berry 43

Ingredients: 30 ml Licor 43 Cinnamon stick 10 ml lime juice 40 ml cranberry juice Method: Shake Licor 43, cinnamon stick, lime and cranberry juice with a dash of grenadine and ice cubes in a cocktail shaker. Serve in a tall martini glass with a sugared rim. Alcosense Lite, is a digital pocket sized breathalyser perfect for anyone drinking over the seasonal period, this will ensure you are always legal to drive - £59.99 - www.alcosense.co.uk. (Research shows that 1 in 5 convicted drink drivers are being caught in the morning as most people don’t realise how long it takes alcohol to leave their systems).

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Licor 43Apple Pie Ingredients: • 25ml Licor 43 • 100ml cloudy apple juice • Dash Angostura Bitters Method: Pour Licor 43 into a glass and top with cloudy apple juice and Angostura Bitters. For an extra treat top with whipped cream and cinnamon

FOR THE COCKTAIL CUPBOARD Crystallised petals dance in a glass of champagne, fruit purees simplify professional cocktails, and cherries & gold leaf add flair. Cherry Puree £9.50, Passion Fruit Puree £7.95, White Peach Puree £7.50, Lime Juice £7.50, Sugar Cane Syrup £5.95, Crystallised Violet Pieces £4.95, Crystallised Rose Pieces £4.95, Cocktail Cherries With Stem £1.95, Edible Gold Leaf Flakes £22.00 - www.souschef.co.uk Please drink responsibly: www.drinkaware.co.uk

Roasted Fillet of Black Sea Hake with roasted Jerusalem artichokes, wild mushrooms & lemon hollandaise CHEF: Carl Jackman - The Quince Tree INGREDIENTS: SERVES 4 • 4x 160-180g fillets of Hake scaled and pin boned. • 250g mixed wild mushrooms such as girollles, trompettes and pied de mutton • 250g Jerusalem

artichokes • 3 lemons • 3 egg yolks • 150ml lemon vinegar or white wine vinegar • 250g unsalted butter • 1 bay leaf

• Maldon Sea Salt • Cracked black pepper • Olive or rapeseed oil enough to drizzle • Small bunch of chervil or parsley for the finish

PREPARATION: 1. Remove the fish from the fridge and check for scales and bones. 2. Place the vinegar, the bay leaf a pinch of salt and pepper in a small pan, bring the vinegar to the boil and reduce by half. Once reduced leave to one side to cool. 3. Melt the butter in a pan until warm. Be careful not to boil it as this will taint the flavour. 4. Take 500ml water and add the juice of 2 lemons. Then add the juiced halves to the water and a good pinch of salt, then proceed to peel the artichokes. They are quite knobbly so be careful not to cut yourself! 5. Placing them in the acidulated water will stop them going brown. Once all peeled place them on a hob and bring to the boil and simmer for 5 minutes until slightly al dente. 6. Drain and keep them to one side to cool then slice in to little finger size chunks. 7. Clean your mushrooms well. Make sure they are soil and grass free and give them a quick wash. Be careful not to use too much water though as this will stop them frying at a high heat and will taint the flavours. METHOD: HOLLANDAISE. 1. Have the warm butter to hand. 2. Take a clean bowl and add the egg yolks and vinegar reduction to it. 3. Over a Bain Marie (a small simmering pan of water just ticking over with small bubbles) whisk the mix moving the bowl around and offering it off the heat otherwise it will scramble. When the mixture starts to build volume and it starts to strengthen feel the temperature with your little

finger it should be warm (body temperature). Then take it off the heat and stand the bowl on a flat surface with a towel under it so it doesn’t move around. Start to emulsify the butter in to it with a whisk a little bit at a time. This in turn will start to thicken again and cool at the same time making a rich mayonnaise like sauce that’s rich in colour. 4. Once all the butter has been incorporated then taste and season and finish with a little lemon zest and juice to add that final zing. METHOD: 5. In a large flat pan take a good knob of butter and add it once the pan is slightly heated. This will start to caramelise straight away and you can then add your wild mushrooms and pan fry for 2-3 minutes until soft. Then add the chunks of artichokes and continue to colour for 2-3 minutes then finish with some chopped parsley or chervil. 6. Take a large flat non-stick pan big enough to get the hake fillets in and get it nice and hot (seeing smoke on the pan is best). Take the pan off the heat and drizzle some oil and sprinkle sea salt in the bottom of the pan. Then add a good knob of butter. It will start to caramelise at which point you add the fish skin side down. Gently coax the fish to move with a swift gentle shake. This allows the fish to get nice and crispy. 7. Turn down the pan to a medium heat to caramelise the skin to get a nice colour and finish on the skin. Leave it for 3-4 minutes then gently turn on over. It should be a nice golden colour. Turn the remaining fish over and leave to carry on cooking for another 3-4 minutes then turn off the heat and allow the fish to carry on in the pan. Finish the fish with a good squeeze of lemon juice and then you can place the fillets on top of the roasted mushrooms and artichokes and then just drop a small dollop of lemon hollandaise on the side. LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 25

for the Foodie

Thomas J Fudge’s Many-Shaped Miscellany of Biscuits for Cheese (ultimate cheeseboard accompaniment) - £4.50, Thomas J Fudge’s Decadent Dark Chocolate Florentines (sweet taste of almonds & sultanas to give a fruity and nutty flavour, perfect sprinkled over vanilla ice-cream) £3.50 - www.thomasjfudges.co.uk

Winter Warmer Beef Casserole As the evenings get darker and the days get colder, we turn to warming dishes and here is one with a little more spice than usual. Serves 8

INGREDIENTS: 1 kilo Good quality stewing steak diced into 2cm cubes. 2 Teaspoons cumin seed 2 teaspoons coriander seed 1 Teaspoon coarse ground pepper 4 Tablespoons olive or sunflower oil 3 medium sized onions chopped 6 medium sized carrots chopped 6 Cloves of garlic chopped 2 Red chillies deseeded and chopped 9 2 Teaspoons sea salt 4 Fresh tomatoes chopped 100 g Pimento 1x 400g Tin of tomatoes 1 Dessertspoon tomato puree 1 Teaspoon wine vinegar 2 Teaspoons each of sage and thyme. 10 button sized mushrooms For the stock (Place in jug) 2 Beef stock cubes 1 Dessertspoon of corn floor 1 Tablespoon dark soy sauce 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 Dessertspoon caster sugar 1 Dessertspoon lemon juice (Stir in) 800ml boiling water

METHOD 1. In a large saucepan dry fry the cumin coriander and pepper for one minute. 2. Add the oil and heat then add the,onions, carrots, garlic, and red chilli. Sprinkle with sea salt . Cook on medium heat for 5 minutes. 3. Add the fresh tomatoes, pimento, tomato puree, sage and thyme and cook for further 2 minutes 4. Add the diced beef and tin of tomatoes, wine vinegar and stir . Heat for further 5 minutes. 5. Add the stock followed by the mushrooms. Stir well and bring to boil. Reduce heat to a low simmer and cook for forty minutes. 6. Remove from heat and transfer contents to a casserole bowl and serve , with vegetables of choice. SERVE WITH: Mash Potato, Crusty bread or Rice, depending on your preference. David Rhys Price

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Store your favourite Ryvita® in style with the new limited edition Ryvita® tin, created by leading London-based designer, Ben de Lisi, the new beautifully colourful Ryvita® tin will instantly brighten up your kitchen counter whilst keeping your favourite Ryvita® Crispbread extra crunchy, fresh and tasty. The stylish tin is exclusively available to buy via www.ryvita.co.uk, while stocks last - £7.49 (incl p&p) American hot sauce Frank’s RedHot® is the ideal last-minute present for students, food fanatics or the man in your life. Choose from the classic Original recipe, authentic Buffalo Wings, tangy Chili N’ Lime and daring Xtra Hot - £1.49 www.amazon.co.uk & all major food retailers

Perfect for those foodie fans of Tabasco who just can’t get enough, hot pepper sauce fanatics, chilli heads or the man who likes a challenge in his life. The Gallon sized jug of Tabasco is made using the same methods as the traditional sized bottles of Tabasco Red Pepper Sauce (aged in oak barrels for three years)- £79.95. - Fortnum and Mason and Harvey Nichols Salt Block Cooking Set Used by Michelin-star chefs around the country, salt plates are harvested from ancient salt mines in Pakistan., making every plate unique. Cook on them directly, or use to cure fish and season vegetables. Includes: Cookbook, 2 x Salt Plate £32.50 - www. souschef.co.uk

BRILLIANTLY BLANC In 1972, Frenchman Raymond Blanc moved to England, finding work as a waiter at the Rose Revived restaurant in Oxfordshire. When one day he was forced into the kitchen by a chef taken ill, Blanc’s career suddenly changed direction. Since then, the self-trained chef has earned himself Michelin stars, opened his own restaurants, and established The Raymond Blanc Cookery School. Now the chef explains just how this came to be, and what British food means to him.

WHAT WAS BRITISH FOOD LIKE WHEN YOU FIRST MOVED TO THE UK? Thirty years ago, England was a very different place. Food was class-led and luxury was exclusive. The British separated food from everything. It had become a mere commodity, which was produced intensively, heavily processed, heavily branded and marketed. For the majority, food was devalued, it was a fuel to feed the body and the cheaper the better. SO WHAT’S CHANGED? There’s a quiet revolution going on. People are starting to understand again that food connects with everything - with your environment, society, farm, home, family values, the health of the nation. It is truly exciting to see people start to respect food, enjoy food and give it value. AS A SELF-TAUGHT CHEF, WAS FOOD AND COOKING ALWAYS A PASSION? I became a chef at the age of twenty-seven. I had never worked in a professional kitchen – just a few months in a pub. At the beginning, I was never great company when it came to eating with friends. In fact, in the early days – all the time, my mind was constantly preoccupied with ideas for recipes, or preoccupied by the scents and tastes of ingredients. DID THIS LACK OF TRAINING WORK TO AN ADVANTAGE? As I was untrained I had so much to catch up with and a whole world of food to discover. How could I do that dish? What if I did this to that? I was obsessed – in trying to conquer and catch up as well as to go further and discover new tastes and experiences when it came to cooking and eating. Sometimes it was hard work and sometimes the ideas just came out of the blue – I think that combination is important. WHAT IS IT THAT MAKES YOUR RESTAURANT BELMOND LE MANOIR AUX QUAT’SAISONS SO SPECIAL?

Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons is the most dynamic, creative place and the people who work here have ownership. Yes, it is my vision, but I work very hard for them to own it as much as I do – emotionally, aesthetically, intellectually, and business-wise. I try to teach young people to open up to new ideas and be curious. I want them to ask thousands of questions. Everything is based on knowledge – our people are trained to know anything you may ask them. They have to understand the vision, share it, own it and pass it on. IS THERE A CONSISTENT THEME TO WHAT YOU ARE TRYING TO ACHIEVE IN A ‘RAYMOND BLANC’ RESTAURANT? When I was creating Belmond Le Manoir, it was and still is a labour of love. My vision was actually to create a place with republican values. I come from a working class background and I wanted it to have an inclusive luxury. The first thing I did was to kill table protocol. WHAT DID THAT INVOLVE? I told the young commis to engage with the guests, then I started to remove jackets and ties - people were dressed up to the hilt and I did not want them to be uncomfortable. We were the first to have a full a la carte menu for vegetarian and vegan guests. We also actively welcomed children. You have no idea what a battle that was..! WHAT MAKES A ‘RESTAURANT’? A restaurant used to be an appendage with no connections. Now a restaurant is part of society as important as any university, museum or cinema. It brings people together. Because we have so little time for family life, restaurants will increasingly become a way to enjoy time together and celebrate. All this is the basis of our success and it has had huge commercial consequences. So, the look and feel of Le Manoir – is welcoming and inclusive in all ways. For more information on the Raymond Blanc Cookery School, visit www.belmond.com LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 27

WINTER-PROOF YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM It seems like five minutes since we packed the summer beach towels away, now suddenly everywhere people are sniffling, spluttering or complaining of feeling groggy and achy. Colds, and the more severe flu, are a common part of winter and most of us fall prey at some point or other, but taking action now could help keep these bugs at bay. And at the centre of this strategy is the immune system. “The immune system’s made of specialised cells and tissues that protect the body from invaders like bacteria and viruses, parasites and fungal infections,” explains Mel Wakeman, senior lecturer in applied physiology at Birmingham City University. “It’s able to detect the presence of foreign bodies and mount an attack in an effort to destroy them and limit any damage they could cause. And it’s heavily involved in healing and repair processes.” These bacteria and viruses exist all year round, and despite the common myth - getting cold and wet doesn’t make us more likely to catch them, but these bugs do affect us more during colder months. “We tend to close the windows and turn on the heating, creating stuffy environments that bugs will thrive in,” says Wakeman. “Having the heating on dries out our mucosa [the cells that line the back of our throat, windpipe and sinuses] making it easier for bugs to infect us. Viruses like the common cold and flu invade the mucosa and start growing, causing us to feel unwell. We also tend to have a more indoor lifestyle when the weather’s colder, so infections spread much more easily as we’re in closer proximity to each other.” WINTER FUEL “It’s well established that better nourished people get less sick, so ensuring your diet’s packed full of highly nutritious foods is a good start, especially 28 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

as it becomes more tempting to spend cosy nights in with the wrong types of comfort foods as winter closes in,” says Rob Hobson, head of nutrition at Healthspan. VITAMIN VITALS “We should all consider taking vitamin D supplements as the clocks go back. Nearly half of us have low levels of this sunshine vitamin in winter, and research shows that people with low vitamin D tend to get more respiratory tract infections,” says Hobson. Vitamin C,is the vitamin most commonly used to support immune health. “Several studies show that vitamin C enhances the immune system and helps defend against infections. FROM A TO ZINC “Zinc is known to support the healing of tissues, particularly the reddened and inflamed tissues often associated with a sore throat,” says Bailey. “Taking zinc supplements has been shown to help prevent the onset and reduce the duration of cold symptoms. MOVE IT, MOVE IT Working up the motivation to exercise during winter, when it’s cold, wet and dark, is a challenge, but your immune system will thank you for it. As well as being vital for longterm health, research suggests regular physical activity’s important for short-term immune function too. . COLD CAUTION Being active is good, but don’t overdo it; too much exercise can also suppress immune function. And resting when you are unwell is also very important, so listen to your body and don’t feel guilty about skipping work-outs if you’re ill. CLEAN TOUCH “Keeping your hands clean is the best way to keep from getting sick and spreading germs,” says Deepa Songara, Boots UK flu pharmacist.

I can st ill enjoy my garden

We were so glad we could stay in the home we’d lived in for 40 years

You’ve worked hard your whole life to make your

house your home Why move when you need home comforts the most?

As we get older everyday tasks can become more difficult. Often the question of whether you or your loved ones can continue to live in their home will come up. Many people have lived in the same home for most of their adult life and the idea of having to move into residential care is a worrying prospect, especially as it means moving away from the community they know and love. Margaret found out about live-in care through a friend;

“I just didn’t want to end up moving away from everything I knew. We had so many fond memories in that house and I wanted somewhere I could pass on to my children and grandchildren.” Promedica24 provides the support and companionship you need, enabling you to stay in your own home and your community as you get older. We provide a trained carer who is available around the clock, while slotting in to your life at home, allowing you or your loved one to remain independent and comfortable.

Francesca is more than just a carer, she is now part of the family

Whether it is looking out of your kitchen window at your sunny garden, making your tea just so, or doing the crossword while listening to the radio – staying put, with a helping hand from someone you get to know and trust can make life lot simpler.

The all-important financials Prices compare favourably to residential care, so you can stay in your home, without the stress, disruption and worry a move can have. There are three simple packages available, each is clearly priced and is dependent on your needs, with no hidden costs. Once the package is agreed, there will be no extra charges if you’re up in the night or need an errand running.

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Tai Chi ~ Qi Gong ~ Yoga Meditation A gentle yet powerful approach to fitness and well being Regular weekly daytime and evening classes Half day and weekend courses White Ledges Maidenhead close to A4/A404 junction.

Phone: 01628 673 377

Mobile: 07732 705644

email: saramayne@btconnect.com Web: www.saramayne.com

Meetings

Online

United Reformed Church Oxford Road, Marlow SL7 2NL Tuesday 5:45pm Liston Hall Chapel Street, Marlow SL7 1DD Wednesday 9:30am

Mobile Flackwell Heath Community Centre Straight Bit, Flackwell Heath HP10 9LS Wednesday 6:00pm

The Cressex School Holmers Lane, Booker, High Wycombe HP12 4QA Monday 7:00pm

St. Mark’s Methodist Church Hall Allenby Road, Maidenhead SL6 5BQ Wednesday 7:30pm

The Community Centre Wakeman Road, Bourne End SL8 5SX Saturday 9:00am

Holiday Inn Manor Lane, Maidenhead SL6 2RA Monday 6:30pm

your local meetings St. Joseph’s Parish Centre Cookham Road, Maidenhead SL6 7EG Monday 7:00pm Tuesday 9:30am St. Mary’s Church Glory Mill Lane, Wooburn Green, High Wycombe HP10 0LU Wednesday 6:30pm Lowbrook Academy The Fairway, Cox Green, Maidenhead SL6 3AR Thursday 6:30pm Cippenham Primary School Elmshott Lane, Cippenham SL1 5RB Monday 6:30pm

Woodlands Park Village Centre Manifold Way, Waltham Road, Maidenhead SL6 3NH Saturday 8:45am The Christ Church Centre The Pither Hall, 46 Reading Road, Henley On Thames RG9 1AG Friday 9:30am Burnham Park Hall Windsor Lane, Burnham Village SL1 7HR Tuesday 10:00am, 6:30pm Cippenham Community Centre Earls Lane, Cippenham SL1 5TD Wednesday 12:30pm

For more local meetings weightwatcherslocal.co.uk 0345 677 7788

£10 Monthly Pass

First month

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HAND THIS VOUCHER IN AT YOUR MEETING 90011417

90011417

30 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

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†Purchase Monthly Pass in your first Weight Watchers meeting in England, Scotland or Wales before 22 November 2014 and pay £10 for the first month upon presentation of this coupon. Note that if you purchase Monthly Pass without a coupon, you will be charged £16.95 for the first month. Monthly fee (currently £21.45) will be payable for all subsequent months until you cancel. Fees subject to change. Coupon cannot be transferred, combined with other offers, exchanged for cash or used with At Work. Activation needs to be completed on our website. Available to individuals aged 18 years or older.

Silky Hair As our hair dries out over the winter months and needs looking after we have pulled together a few of our favourite products for you to keep your glorious mane in good shape!!

Neal & Wolf Harmony Intensive Care Treatment (200ml): RRP £13.50 www.nealandwolf.com

Keratin Pro 2 minute smooth treatmentmoisturises & strengthens: (150ml) RRP £1.00 - Poundland

Creighton’s Argan Shampoo & Conditioner enriched with Moroccan Argan oil: RRP £1.00 - Home Bargains

Milk_Shake Sparkling Glaze - perfect party hero giving condition & body while protecting: RRP £16.29 www.milkshakehaircare.co.uk

Sachajuan Professional range - giving hair maximum shine, volume & stability without the heaviness www.fruugo.co.uk RRP £13.80

Ayumi Repair Hair Oil -gives nourishment to tame unruly hair: RRP £7.99 www.ayurri.co.uk

Revlon Professional Brilliant Hydra Elixir - promotes instant shine & control for dry & stubborn hair (125ml): RRP £10.99 www.revlonprofessional.com

Tan Organic Oil Arganic beneficial for hair & nails, moisturising & nourishing: RRP £24.99 www.tanorganic.com/uk

Dr Organic Liquid Gold Moroccan Argan Oil- perfect for split ends & making hair easier to style: ( 50ml) RRP £14.99 www.hollandandbarrett.com RRP £28.93

Naturtint Vital 5 Hair Mask - repairs from the deepest layers to protect hair for longer: RRP £14.99 www.hollandandbarrett.com

Perfectil Plus Hair - nutrition from within, protecting from styling & stresses of life: RRP £17.95 (60 tabs) www.perfectil.com

32 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Voya Silky by Nature - vitamin enriched formula for silky hair: (200ml) RRP £16.00 www.voya.ie

Festive Hair Director Karine Jackson says, “Well can you believe the festive season is nearly upon us again? It only seems like yesterday we were wearing relaxed beachy waves and festival flowers… However I just love this time of year as it means there are lots of parties to attend giving us the opportunity to start experimenting with an altogether more glamorous look. If you’re going straight for a post-work impromptu Baileys or a full on evening party then read on for my top tips on taking your hair from office to off-duty.” TEXTURED TRESSES For hair that just needs a little reviving post work use my new ‘Schu-Shine’ technique to give your hair a cool matte texture. Spray dry shampoo liberally throughout the hair and use a towel in a ‘shoe-shining’ action to disperse the product throughout the hair for a mussed up finish. This is an effortless way to add interest to your hair when time isn’t on your side. BRAIDED BEAUTY If you usually wear your hair in a ponytail for work, experiment by wearing the ponytail higher than usual and braid the tail (experiment with regular plaiting, fishtails and ropes) before twisting it around itself and securing for a cool braided topknot. ROUND THE TWIST For gorgeous waves, prep your hair in the morning by creating 1cm twists all over your head and pinning these in place for a simple but intricate-looking updo. Spray with hairspray to set the twists, just before you go out simply take out the pins and shake out the twists for curls that will last the night. You can either leave the curls as they are, or brush them out slightly with a paddle brush for Hollywood-esque waves. SLEEK AND CHIC If you’ve got statement earrings or a necklace to show off then pair them with hair that is pulled off the face – I love slicked back hair as it looks incredibly chic on all hair lengths and will overhaul your look in minutes. Invest in a spray gel – don’t be put off by gel, it won’t give your look a harsh crisp finish and instead it will keep frizz at bay and give you a modern catwalk look. Spray the gel onto the side of your hair and slick back with your hands and over the top. You can either leave the ends free to create a dual-textured look or secure the hair in a ponytail. SUPER SPEEDY UPDATE For the simplest look, just add an accessory! It really is that easy. The high street is full of gorgeous hair bands and vintage style clips making it the perfect time to get creative. A jewelled hair band can jazz up a messy bun in seconds or a 20’s style brooch accessory can give a simple bob a touch of ‘Downton Abbey’ glamour. If you’re struggling with your hair try looking online for tutorials or pop into the salon: most places offer lessons in hair ups or blow dries and even while you’re having a cut or colour you can get your stylist to talk you through some tips. ESSENTIAL KIT BAG Keep these tools on hand in your desk for last minute mulled wine or champagne dates… Dry Shampoo Kirby Grips and Pins Spray Gel Comb Hairspray www.karineJackson.co.uk

Braun Satin Hair 7 brush works by delivering ions through a uniquely designed jet within the brush’s central core. At the push of a button, it releases charged particles from the central delivery system straight onto the hair, instantly helping to smooth minimise frizz and static and significantly boosting shine and restoring smoothness - £21.99 - www.amazon.co.uk

Cloud 9 Styling Brush Trio prefessional results at your fingertips with handmade, luxury styling brushes. The Dressing & Styling Brush (which stimulates the scalp while polishing each strand - £37.50), Radial Blow Dry Brush (ceramic barrel helps reduce drying time & promotes healthy, hydrated hair - £37.50) and the Professional Paddle Brush (is hairdryer resistant & ideal for detangling and taming long & curly hair - £37.50)www.cloudninehair. co.uk

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 33

Almost like a blanket The most cosy outwear of the season – the poncho. This time it’s really big. So big you can pin it, wrap yourself in it and even use it as a coat. All left to a customer’s imagination… On the winter catwalks poncho played a major part and was featured in many different combination: with stylish shift dress, wool trousers and jumper or simply as a stunning piece of fashionable outwear.

How to wear it • With slim pants and ankle boots for a city look • With a belt for getting a great proportion of a silhouette • With a stylish brooch to create a waterfall effect • And if you are in favour of wearing a classic coat then take a note of the latest trends. Although a thick winter coat is always a good option this season there are more coats that can be worn as a jacket or layered with your winter wardrobe. It’s all about being stylish and comfortable at the same time. Strong royal blue is a definite winner but if you like understated look the charcoal or wine tone is also a fashionable option.

3 2

1. 2.

Aurex Poncho, in a variety of colours, with OYCA Brooch: Available www.SwishBoutique.co.uk Eden Rock long coat and scarf: Available www.SwishBoutique.co.uk

34 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

3. Navy Coat, £299: Available www.PureCollection.com 4. Royal Blue Coat, £299: Available www. PureCollection.com 5. Chunky Knit Gilet with large clasp by Marble, £27: Available www. PizazzOnline.co.uk 6. Black/grey chenille and rib jacket/cardigan wiht diamante zip: Available www.PizazzOnline. co.uk 7. Fun Faux bags by Dents: Available www.PizazzOnline. co.uk 8. Lila Gloves in red, Amore gloves in Fushia, Pheonix gloves in animal print: Available www. SwishBoutique.co.uk

Flamboyance, Flair, Glamour - they’re all here at Pizazz!

Pay us a visit and see our fantastic ranges including all the sought after labels. Plus a wide range of exciting accessories.

MID SEASON SALE CONTINUES 27 The Parade, Bourne End Bucks SL8 5SB

tel: 01628 522590 email: enquiries@pizazzshop.co.uk web: www.pizazzonline.co.uk

LAVENDER AND STONE BEAUTY ROOMS’ VOUCHERS

The perfect Christmas present VOUCHER 4 salons :Layout 1

Call us and we will post the vouchers to you or visit one of our salons or buy online. NAME:

........................

VOUCHER NUMBER: ........................

VALUE:

........................

DATE:

........................

23/11/12

16:38

Page 1

GIFT VOUCHER This entitles

My loved one £100

Valid for 6 months

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to the value of . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . at Lavender and Stone Beauty Rooms Date of issue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120 Southdown Road, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 1QQ T: 01582 462075

15b The Broadway, Penn Road, New Beaconsfield, Bucks HP9 2PD T: 01494 672211

info@lavenderandstonebeautyrooms.co.uk

Voucher No . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6a and 6b Furlong Road, Bourne End, near Marlow, Bucks SL8 5DG T: 01628 529688

36 High Road, Bushey Heath, Hertfordshire WD23 1GG T: 0208 420 4060

www.lavenderandstonebeautyrooms.co.uk

1. Cannot be redeemed for cash. 2. Voucher must be produced at time of treatment. 3. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

www.lavenderandstonebeautyrooms.co.uk 120 Southdown Road, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 1QQ l 01582 462075 l harpenden@lavenderandstonebeautyrooms.co.uk 15b The Broadway, Penn Road, New Beaconsfield, Bucks HP9 2PD l 01494 672211 l beaconsfield@lavenderandstonebeautyrooms.co.uk 6a and 6b Furlong Road, Bourne End, near Marlow, Bucks SL8 5DG l 01628 529688 l bourneend@lavenderandstonebeautyrooms.co.uk 36 High Road, Bushey Heath, Hertfordshire, WD23 1GG l 0208 420 4060 l busheyheath@lavenderandstonebeautyrooms.co.uk

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 35

Happy Hydrated Hands!! and then to finish ... Mary Elizabeth Hand Cream - British - soothes & protects: (50gm) RRP £9.50 www.maryelizabethbodycare.co.uk

Oriflame ‘ONE’ - Protect booster & nail protect with nourishing cuticle cream: All RRP £6.95 www.oriflame.co.uk

Lush Handy Gurugu Butter Rich: RRP £7.95 www.lush.co.uk

Dr Lewinns - mixed with almond oil & shea butter for ultimate moisturising: RRP £18.00 www.janjira.co.uk

Zoya Nail Varnish - Available in ahuge range of colours: RRP £11.00 www.nailclub.com

e tre e al sor tur d & a n e ins ack nta cr l) co l dry, 00m k are hea s: (1 9.95 o.u c C lp d £ p.c sti he han RRP nsho i Ma in to sk w. res ww

P sk ure inc & ar Lig e r ht w a w w sk ng Org .pu in: e a re R fo nic an RP r d ry - br dl ig £3 & an ht 9. s d or 00 en n sit ew ga ive ni c.

Mad Beauty - Kelloggs Vintage hand Cream: RRP £5.99 www.madbeauty.com

O’Keeffes Working Hands - for those who work but great for all!: RRP £7.99 www.uk.okeeffescompany.com

Lotil Hand Cream -: RRP £3.59 www.boots.com Voya Handy to Have - special blend of antioxidants for keeping hand looking young: www.voya.ie Clarins Hand & Nail Treatment softens & comfort dries: (100ml) RRP £21.00 www.clarins.co.uk

Dr Bonners Organic Lotions - for hand & body in various scents: (236ml) RRP 8.29 www.drbonner.co.uk

The Body Deli Tahitian Vanilla Cream - extra rich & nourishing: RRP £24.00 www.abeautifulworld.co.uk

Inlight Hand Easy - deeply moisturising hand balm: RRP £12.00 www.inlight-online.co.uk

36 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Kiss Fantasy Nails (Asda £8.99) and Gel Dress (Superdrug £5.99): Available in a large range of styles

Intensae Red Hot Christmas Trio: RRP £32.00 www.abeautifulworld.co.uk

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£60 *

Half Legs Under Arms

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Half Legs Bikini Line

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Men’s: Full Back Shoulders

£60 *

£80 *

Normally £240

DENTISTRY | ORTHODONTICS | DENTAL IMPLANTS | COSMETIC SURGERY

01628 488 499 44 Marlow Bottom, Marlow, SL7 3NB - Ample FREE off street parking

* Price per session when you buy a package of 5 or more sessions | Only half the full package is paid in advance | Oﬀer not valid for single session treatments | Terms & Conditions Apply

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 37

PISTE AND QUIET IN BANFF

C W

hen our instructor Kenji asks us to check each other’s noses for frostbite, I assume he must be joking. Only Everest climbers get frostbite, right? But as it turns out, coming home from a skiing trip with two less fingers is an actual possibility. That’s because here, at the top of Lookout Mountain, in the Sunshine Village ski resort of Canada’s Banff National Park, it’s -27. I’m currently 2,739m above sea level, on the borders of Alberta and British Columbia, snugly wrapped up within an inch of my life. The snow has stopped falling and the cloudy skies have given way to a blanket of blue. The tops of the Rocky Mountains stretch for miles ahead, and thanks to the strict building rules in this national park, there’s not a town, road or car in sight. While North American ski slopes are comparatively more spacious than European ones (just like the roads, they’re much wider), the mountains of Sunshine Village seem to be in another league entirely. There are no chairlift queues, and it’s not unusual to have an entire run to ourselves. Along with Lake Louise and Mount Norquay, Sunshine Village is part of the park’s Big 3 ski areas, which combined, offer 8,000 acres of skiable terrain. But Sunshine Village is the only resort with ski-in ski-out means. It has the highest annual snowfall in the Banff area, and there’s something really refreshing about the intimate, small scale of the resort. There are three mountains to keep us busy here: Goat’s Eye, Standish and

a d a an

Lake Louise Ski Resort, Banff National Park

Lookout. The mid-mountain area is my favourite, with long, varied black and blue runs, huge North American evergreen pines and a hidden narrow passageway with lots of bumps to keep you on your toes - quite literally. On one occasion, I misguidedly attempt to follow a fellow skier off-piste. As I hurtle ahead and all ski tracks disappear, mild panic sets in as I realise this is a national park and there was a bear sighting here not long ago. Thankfully, a fellow skier bumbles along behind me and we end up having to retrace our footsteps and escape the trees in the most shameful way - carrying our skis. After a day on the slopes, there’s nothing better than slipping into a hot tub. With specks of snow falling from a black sky, and the evening temperatures dropping, we dip into the hot water. Within minutes, we’re laughing at the icicles that have formed on our frozen hair, a surreal sensation in the steaming hot bath. Alberta is well known for its beauty in summer, with emerald lakes tucked between vast mountain ranges covered with pine trees. When snow starts to fall, the mountains around Lake Louise take on an eerie but beautiful quality. After a day on the spacious powdery slopes, we sit down to an impressive selection of local meats at the beautiful Deer Lodge restaurant. We dine on elk, caribou, bison and pink Alberta steak. The Alpine Ski World Cup is being held at Lake Louise during our stay, and athletes from all over the world come to show off their downhill skills. Hundreds of

38 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Lake Louise Ski Resort, Banff National Park

Norquay Ski Resort, Banff National Park

Sunshine Village Ski Resort, Banff National Park

Photographs: PA Photos/Bell Pottinger

Rocky Mountains

Banff National Park

volunteers have snowploughed the course to remove any specks of loose snow that can add milliseconds to an athlete’s time. It’s surprising that there aren’t more broken bones as they hurtle down the mountain without turning. While Lake Louise may have good slopes, there are far more options for post-ski activities in Banff town. A long stretch of restaurants, shops and bars is set against a backdrop of snow-tipped mountains, attracting a large number of tourists. Our hotel, The Fox, has a rustic feel, with large suites and an open-air Jacuzzi in the basement, where I head for a pre-

Banff, Banff National Park

dinner beer and soak. We may be in Canada but I enjoy a range of international cuisine in the restaurant; one night I’m digging into grilled calamari and drinking Italian wine, then Greek food the following day. When night falls, Banff doesn’t sleep. Wild Bill’s reputation precedes it, with talk of line dancing, live country music and a bucking bronco. But I’m heartbroken when we turn up to find the bar closed, as it’s too early in the season. The ten minute-drive to Norquay is the shortest hotel to slope commute from Banff, and although the smallest of the Big 3, it does have a tubing slope, where you

can whizz downhill in a rubber ring. There are 36 runs available during peak season, but Norquay lacks the long runs of Lake Louise and Sunshine Village. We leave our skis behind and take a ride to the top of the mountain to admire the views. Our guide tells us that on Valentine’s Day, the chairlift is used for ski speed dating, with singletons queuing up to share the ride amid romantic mountaintops. Admiring the winter wonderland of Banff National Park, I understand why it’s easy to fall in love with this place. By Lauren Taylor

Lauren Taylor was a guest of Canadian Affair (020 7616 9933; www.canadianaffair.com) who offers a seven-night Banff Lake Louise ski trip from £719 per person. Includes flights from London Gatwick to Calgary, airport transfers and accommodation (room only) at the Inns of Banff on selected dates in January and February 2015. Lift passes cost from £33 per day (based on adult rate).

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 39

Bach’s Rescue Balm - contains a combination of 5 flower essences, intense & nourishing: RRP £6.30 www.nelsonspharmacy.com

RP ojito R

ryy m ie in be ting lipp - hydraww.next.co.uk k n u D w ky £6.00 X Chun

Cla

rins plu Lip Pe mp rfe : RR cto P £ r - ke 18. eps 00 l ww ips s mo w. cl ot ar ins h, s .co hiny .uk &

Surratt lip gloss- bright lumious make-up launched by Troy Surratt in variety of standard shades: RRP £22.00 www.liberty.co.uk

Marble & Milkweeed simple ginger lip balm- full of coconut oil to provide nourishment: RRP £1.45 www.marbleandmilkweed.com

Lush Lip Service - smooth & easy to apply : RRP £5.75 www.lush.co.uk

Lucious Lips Vaseline- goes Vintage in 4 varieties: from RRP £1.45

available from major retailers

Push Make Up - Lip gloss Quad in 4 fab colours - lavender, peached, too true & cherryade: RRP £18.00 www.push-mak-up.com

PawPaw range - enriched with NZ Manuka honey fro relieving dry irritated lips: RRP £6.95 tesco, boots, superdry

Dr Bonners Orange & Ginger Lip Balm - rejuvenate tired & chapped lips RRP £2.95 www.drbonner.co.uk

Mary Elizabeth Nurture Balm -British, nourishing, perfect for dry skin RRP £6.75 www.maryelizabethbodycare.com

40 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

y d o B

a e B

l u f uti

Fed up with dry skin??

Look no further than these nourishing products, just in time for Winter!

sed on nd focu ricose care bra (va ew skinin conditions ) n s n lutio pecific sk (RRP £35 Skin So rs e Cloud 9ng solutions foP £30), cellulitin.com creati veins (RR .cloud9sk

Miss Giordani - Italian fragrance for the sophisticated woman. RRP £21.95 www.oriflame.co.uk

www

Thierry Mugler limited edition: Angel Glamorama - a new experience of sensuality & glamour; refillable: (50ml) RRP £65.00 exclusive: selfridges

Squeeky Clean Body Better Body Lotion - deeply moisturises & nourishes: RRP £1.00 poundland

Argan Body Cream - rich moisturising treat: RRP £1.00 poundland

Clarins Smooth Body Lotion - infuses skin with a satin smooth luminosity & fresh glow: (200ml) RRP £30.00 www.clarins.co.uk

Voya Softely does it - natural deep moisturising experience leaving skin nourished, soft & silky smooth: RRP £26.00 www.voya.ie

Storm Flower by Cheryl - feel warm in the rain while the sun is shining; gift sets available RRP £29.95 available: boots & debenhams

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GRANT WRITES HIMSELF OFF Do you remember that scene in Notting Hill, where Hugh Grant’s character goes to see Julia Roberts at her swanky London hotel, not realising she’s in the middle of doing interviews promoting her new film? Embarrassed, he poses as a journalist for Horse And Hound magazine and a series of torturously awkward interviews ensue. That’s a bit like how it feels waiting to meet Grant. A member of the anti-media intrusion campaign group Hacked Off, who bugged a former tabloid reporter and got him to

confess to phone hacking before exposing him in The New Statesman, it’s no secret that Grant dislikes the press. He claims he was reluctantly “wheeled out” of semiretirement to appear in his latest romcom, The Rewrite. The 54-year-old actor is actually perfectly polite, and even charming. He flirts with all the women, and has them tittering at his remarks about the hotel staff who sent up hot milk with his tea. But shrugging and shifting in his chair, it’s clear he’d rather not be in this dark hotel room, with a queue of journalists waiting next door to try and persuade him

42 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

to reveal all. “It’s miserable,” he admits, sipping his tea. “But there’s even more miserable parts of the job, I would say.” In The Rewrite, Grant plays Keith Michaels, a once successful Hollywood scriptwriter forced to take a job lecturing at a university to make ends meet. “He loves screen-writing, he loves films, he’s desperate to get back into the business, he’d do anything,” explains the London-born actor. “But he’s just so out of fashion. He’s so ‘cold’ in Hollywood terms, he just can’t get a job. So he has to take this undignified position of teaching screen-

Photographs: PA Photos/Dominic Lipinski and Lionsgate

Scenes from “The Rewrite”

writing to a lot of second-rate students in a third-rate university.” Grant, of course, had his big break in Four Weddings And A Funeral 20 years ago, and has gone on to star in numerous romantic comedies, some more memorable than others. But he hasn’t ‘become’ jaded by Hollywood - he claims he always was. “I’ve always played that... affected that pose anyway. Maybe it’s not a pose,” he says. “There are people who really love showbiz. They get up every morning and they just want to make a film, read a script. I have never been that person, I confess.” So, disillusioned Keith picks all the prettiest young girls to be in his class, indulges in some extra-curricular fun, and aims to get away with doing as little work as possible, insisting that writing is a gift that can’t be taught. But in true romcom style, that all changes when single mum Holly, played by Marisa Tomei, signs up as a mature student. She’s determined to have a second chance at life, and convince Keith he can have one too. “She’s very positive, and my character is very cynical about that,” says Grant. “I think it’s great that someone like that goes back to university, but can anyone learn to do something that requires talent? No, probably not. “I do think if you’ve got a little bit of talent, you can learn to make it much better,” he adds. Following the success of Four Weddings..., Grant went on to play the earnest, bumbling hero several times over, including in the even more successful Notting Hill. He was a box office hit, the ‘romcom king’, and studios were throwing money at him to do it all over again. Then in 2002, he played the lead in

Scenes from “The Rewrite”

About A Boy, chopping off his floppy hair to expose a roguish twinkle in his blue eyes, and his stock character changed. Since then, he’s been the go-to guy for romcoms about a charming but coldhearted cad, who it transpires just needs to be loved.

“And the other thing is, the more you work at something - even if it’s quite good material already - keep working at it. It can always be better.” The Rewrite is his fourth collaboration with writer and director Marc Lawrence, following Two Weeks Notice, Music And Lyrics and Did You Hear About The Morgans? He insists he’s too old for romantic comedy, but enjoys his collaborations with Lawrence because they don’t require much effort. “He really is very clever at writing dialogue that’s good for me. The part was written for me, so it wasn’t much of a stretch,” he concedes wryly. The Rewrite is a very reflective film, with Keith constantly looking back to the peak of his success. In one scene, he watches an old video clip of himself making an acceptance speech at an awards ceremony. The footage is doctored from a real speech given by a fresh-faced Grant at the Golden Globes at the beginning of his career. But watching it didn’t stir any sense of nostalgia in the self-confessed “ultra cynic”. “That scene was slightly annoying; they always wanted to use that old footage of me and I didn’t want to do that. For a start, I convinced myself that I was playing a part in this film, and therefore if you see ME with a completely different voice, 20 years ago, it would bring you out of the film,” Grant reveals. An alternative was shot, with Grant’s face “pulled back with clips” to make him

Scenes from “The Rewrite”

look younger, “but it looked dreadful, so in the end I had to relent and let them use that footage”, he explains. So what has he got out of his 20 year career as a romantic hero? “I don’t think I’ve learned any particular lesson,” he says, shrugging. “Except...”, and finally he appears frank, “it certainly always helps if you don’t just go for the money. Especially certain parts in Hollywood, they’re always trying to draw you in just for the money. “And the other thing is, the more you work at something - even if it’s quite good material already - keep working at it. It can always be better.” Grant’s mistrust of the media is not without reason. In 1995, he was caught in flagrante with prostitute Divine Brown in Downtown Hollywood (while in a relationship with Elizabeth Hurley), and the story was splashed all over the tabloids. His colourful love life - he has reportedly fathered three love children has since been under constant scrutiny. If Grant was reluctant to become an actor, he was even more reluctant to become a celebrity, two titles which go hand-in-hand these days. Over his two decades in the spotlight, the gossip and intrigue surrounding stars’ lives has intensified. In The Rewrite, one of Keith’s students declares celebrities “the Gods of our time”. “She might be right that some people think that,” observes Grant, shuddering. “I don’t share that. I’m a little disturbed by celebrity obsession.” And how does he feel, thinking some people might worship him as a God? “They would have to be psychotic.” The Rewrite is in cinemas now By Albertina Lloyd,

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 43

KEEPING INTERESTED Speculation about interest rate rises has been in the headlines a lot lately, although it appears that many homeowners are burying their heads in the sand about the potential impact this will have on their borrowing costs. Research from the Money Advice Service (MAS) has found that more than half of mortgage holders have not considered how they will cope with a rise, and 8% are even unaware that rate rises are on the horizon, despite many forecasters believing this will start to happen in 2015. Yet when forced to think about it, almost one in five (19%) of the 3,000 UK mortgage holders surveyed admit they will “really struggle” to cover any increase to their monthly payments. More than twothirds (69%) of homeowners said their finances were already stretched when they took out their mortgage (increasing to over three-quarters (77%) of under-35s). Rising interest rates will be a completely new experience for many people. According to industry estimates, around one million homeowners have never experienced an interest rate increase, having climbed onto the property ladder after the base rate fell to its rock bottom level of 0.5% in 2009. SO WHAT IMPACT WILL INTEREST RATE RISES HAVE ON YOUR MORTGAGE PAYMENTS? This depends on what type of mortgage you have. Many people have been opting for longer-term fixed rate

deals recently in order to give themselves some certainty over their mortgage payments. But even for these people, their deal will come to an end sooner or later. Around nine in 10 new mortgages being taken out by first-time buyers and existing homeowners are fixed-rate products, which cushion the borrower from any immediate impact of the base rate rising. Meanwhile, around one in 20 new mortgages are trackers, which are directly linked to the base rate. Lenders also offer standard variable rate (SVR) mortgages, which is a rate that they set themselves. It’s also worth bearing in mind that rates are expected to increase by a series of small “baby steps”, so people will find it easier to acclimatise to the cost of borrowing increasing. Reassuringly, research by the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) has found that, for most people, the widely expected scenario of gradual rate increases is likely to be manageable. S o while the MAS’s research found that nearly half of mortgage holders would find it hard to meet a ¬£150-a-month increase in their payments, this level of rise equates to a 2% point increase (to the average mortgage), something unlikely to happen until around 2018 - by which time earnings are also expected to have increased. In the short term, a 0.25% increase would add only around ¬£16 a month to an average mortgage of ¬£120,000. Of course, that doesn’t mean you don’t

44 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

have to plan ahead... SO HOW CAN YOU PREPARE? The first step you might want to take is to check back through your existing deal to make sure you know exactly what rate you’re paying, whether it’s a fixed or variable deal and when it’s due to come to an end. Some experts suggest that people should consider using any spare cash they have to pay extra chunks off their mortgage so that the amount left outstanding will be smaller when borrowing costs start to increase. People might also want to look at other areas of spending to see if there are areas where they can cut down. Now may be a particularly good time to see what other mortgage deals are out there. A mortgage price war has broken out in recent weeks, with many lenders slashing their rates. And a recent survey of lenders by the Bank of England found that this strong competition is likely to continue over the next few months as lenders look to meet their end-of-year targets. The MAS, which was set up by Government to offer free and impartial money tips, has also placed a new mortgage calculator on its website to help homeowners see exactly how they’d be affected by rising interest rates. This can be found at moneyadviceservice.org.uk/ interest-rates-rise. By Vicky Shaw,

In the News T

he housing market has been sending out some rather mixed messages lately. On the one hand, a string of headlines has brought the news that house prices have reached record highs. On the other, a wave of reports suggests demand in the market is calming down amid a growing mood of house hunter caution. Another aspect of the market which appears pretty contradictory is mortgage rates. In recent months, speculation has grown over the prospect of the Bank of England starting to increase from its historic 0.5% low, which will eventually push up costs for borrowers. But as this debate has raged, a mortgage price war has broken out, with many lenders actually making their rates cheaper. All this can make for confusing reading for people trying to keep track of the housing market. So, to cut through any confusion, firstly let's deal with the new mortgage price war. A string of lenders, including Halifax, Metro Bank, Barclays, Nationwide Building Society, HSBC, and Virgin Money have all sharpened up their prices recently. :: So what's behind the fresh wave of mortgage rate cuts? Well, experts offer various possible clues. They suggest some lenders may be looking to meet particular end-of-year targets, so they're ramping up their efforts to pull customers in by polishing up their mortgage deals. Secondly, swap rates, which lenders use to price their loans, have been declining, meaning that lenders' own funding costs have reduced slightly. Thirdly, some analysts have suggested that some lenders may still be sitting on cash they received as part of a Government scheme called Funding for Lending. This scheme launched in 2012 and gave lenders access to cheap finance - on the condition they passed on the benefits of getting this money to borrowers. The initiative was re-focused in 2014 away from households and towards helping businesses. It's also been suggested that the mortgage price war is a sign of lenders getting to grips with stricter mortgage lending rules. Launched in April, the new rules introduced under the Mortgage Market Review (MMR) force lenders to demand more evidence from people applying for a mortgage to back up what the applicant says about their spending habits. This is so that the lender can make sure that the borrower can truly afford their home loan, both now and when interest rates ONE FIFTH OF HOUSEHOLDS WORRY ABOUT WINTER ENERGY BILLS Nine out of 10 householders plan to ration their energy use this winter in an attempt to keep costs down, according to a survey. Nearly one fifth (19%) of more than 2,000 people surveyed for Gocompare.com are worried about the cost of their winter energy bills. Some 16% of those surveyed have been forced to cut back on other types of spending in order to keep their heating on, while 17% said they were cold last winter in a bid to keep fuel bills down.

rise. The market saw some disruption around the time the rules came into force. :: And now to tackle another seemingly contradictory message - why have some reports shown house prices hitting new records as others have pointed to the market cooling off? Well, this is not necessarily a case of who's right and who's wrong. Many house price reports have a time lag of a couple of months, while other property market surveys give a more up-todate "snapshot" of current trends. This means that sometimes you need to piece various bits of information together like a jigsaw to get the full picture. So, for example, some figures released last week by the Land Registry showed London house prices have leapt by 21.6% annually in the strongest annual growth seen in the capital for 14 years. As this news emerged, a separate report from property analyst Hometrack said that the London market is seeing a pronounced slowdown. But the Land Registry figures were for the month of August, whereas Hometrack's were more recent, covering September. The Land Registry records the prices of houses which have actually sold. Hometrack asks estate agents and surveyors about achievable selling prices, making its survey more of a forwardlooking indicator of what is likely to happen next. When taken together, the two reports point to the pace of house price growth cooling in the coming months in the wake of some previous strong gains. This chimes with a recent prediction from the Bank of England, which expects the pace of house price growth across the UK to halve by next spring. And this trend of a calmer housing market which has been seen in the more immediate "snapshot" surveys is also now starting to filter through into some house price studies, with Nationwide Building Society reporting this week that house prices edged down slightly in September from an all-time high seen in August. FINANCIAL DICTIONARY: Second charge mortgage Second charge mortgages are secured loans, which means that if you take one out you put up your house as security. They exist on top of someone's existing mortgage. The term second charge refers to the legal ranking of the loan, with the borrower's main mortgage being the first charge loan. In recent years the average size of a second charge loan has been around ÂŁ25,000 to ÂŁ30,000. Many people use them as a way of raising money as an alternative to re-mortgaging. Regulator the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) recently unveiled plans to clamp down on the way that second charge loans are handed out, saying it is "concerned that consumers can be put at risk by poor sales practices and ineffective affordability assessments".

NON-HOME OWNERS 'WOULD CONSIDER EMIGRATING' One in 14 (7%) of people who do not currently own their own Santander Mortgages say they are willing to reduce their standard home would consider moving out of the UK if it meant they could of living to become a home owner. get onto the property ladder, research suggests. A further 20% would also go without "luxuries" such as a car One fifth (20%) of more than 2,000 people surveyed for or a holiday in order to buy their own home. LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 45

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The Kelly Hoppen Fragrance Collection consists of a variety of high-quality fragrances. Kelly Hoppen began her business careerat 16 and is now globally knnown for her interior and product design. Kelly’s Diffusers are a new addition to her home offering and can ordered from www.kellyhoppen.com - from £38.00 each depending on purchase.

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Home fragrance brand madebyzen™ have specially selected winter fragrances including: ‘Christmas Spice’ (RRP: £3.99), A‘Mulled Wine’ (RRP: £3.99), ‘Season’s Greetings’ (RRP: £3.99): ‘Three Kings’ (RRP: £3.99): ‘Winter Berries’ (RRP: £3.99): plus two new festive fragrances Cinnamon & Clove and Orange & Spice. - www.madebyzen.com

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Improving your Home

ou, naturally, make improvements to your home to ensure it’s more suited to your lifestyle and taste, but unless it’s your forever house, you may also be interested in what would make it more valuable when you come to sell. Luckily, the home improvements that most appeal to buyers are the same ones that appeal to you - good news all round! If you’re still concerned about resale though, ask local estate agents whether the work you’re considering is advisable. They should know if you’d be spending more than the finished property would be worth and if you’d be spending your money on the right home improvements for the area and the type of people who will buy your home. For example, a lot of cottages and other small houses have a downstairs bathroom, usually off the kitchen, which isn’t to everyone’s taste. Sometimes moving the bathroom into one of the bedrooms will add value, but it does depend on the number of bedrooms and who you want to appeal to when you sell. Buyers might expect a downstairs bathroom in that area or type of property, so moving the bathroom upstairs could be a waste of

time and money. If your house has two or three bedrooms and is likely to appeal to younger buyers who have a family or are planning one, they might want the bathroom downstairs - an upstairs bathroom isn’t much good if it means young children have to sleep downstairs. However, if you expect to sell to older, downsizing buyers whose kids have flown the nest, they mostly prefer an upstairs bathroom because it’s convenient. If you can fit a toilet (and washbasin) upstairs without compromising the layout too much, this can be a good solution. In areas where parking is tricky, having off-street parking makes life easier day to day and is a big asset when you sell. However, off-street parking is a better investment in some areas than others if you live in an expensive urban area, it’s almost certainly money well spent. You may need planning permission for off-street parking - the interactive house at www.planningportal.gov.uk has information on what you can do without planning, but check with your local council too, as there are exceptions to the rules.

48 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

In most cases, you’ll also need to apply to the council to drop the kerb to access your off-street parking easily. Dropping the kerb can be expensive, sometimes costing thousands of pounds because the pavement has to be altered too, so it’s not a cheap way to add value but can make a big difference both now and when you come to sell. Julia Gray

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Stars

NOVEMBER:

Christine Chalkin, Astrologer & Life Coach reveals how you can navigate your way to success in November.

Aries:

March 21 - April 20 The Sun, Venus and Saturn occupy the financial areas of your chart for most of this this month. This is a good time to make some informed decisions about your assets, savings and investments and all general plans for the future. The new moon on the 22nd puts relationships into perspective.

Taurus:

9th communications with family and loved ones improve and forward planning has never been better.

Virgo:

April 21 - May 21 Relationships of all kinds are the focus of the month for Venus ruled Taureans. Your ruling planet is in passionate Scorpio until the 17th so make the most of it and plan to do something spectacular. The new moon in Libra on the 22nd helps you to make an important decision

August 24 - September 23 November is a busy time of comings and goings and meaningful communication is at an all-time high. The full moon in practical Taurus on the 6th challenges you to make some important decisions, as vital changes may be required at work. The new moon on the 22nd could bring a new adventure.

Gemini:

Libra:

May 22 - June 22 Mercury, your ruling planet, moves from balanced Libra into passionate Scorpio on the 9th. Personal fulfilment is important and the powerful new moon in Sagittarius on the 22nd brings a sense of playfulness and adventure – a new and exciting relationship could appear on the horizon.

Cancer:

June 23 - July 23 The line-up of planets in passionate Scorpio means that fun, playfulness and romance are high on the agenda for Scorpios this month. Make the most of this relaxed time before the new moon on the 22nd brings your attention back to personal and professional goals.

Leo:

July 24 - August 23 Your home and family life are in the spotlight this month as the Sun, Venus and Saturn all illuminate this important area. After Mercury shifts into Scorpio on the

September 24 - October 23 Financial matters continue to be an important theme during November. Good financial prospects could well be in store, so it is vital that you get some good advice in this area. Venus, your ruler, moves into optimistic Sagittarius on the 17th, bringing strong potential for success.

Scorpio:

October 24 - November 22 With the love planet Venus in your sign until the 16th, relationships should become more rewarding and romantic. This is an energetic time, be sure to pull out all the stops and get busy with major initiatives; your strong intuition is at its peak and could prove to be spot on

Sagittarius:

November 23 - December 22 You may not feel like taking the initiative this month as it’s more an introspective time for Sagittarians. You may find that you hit a few setbacks, but using your insight

Investments, possessions and resources are in the spotlight for this month. The Sun, Venus and Saturn all in Scorpio, bring these subjects to our attention. The Sun emphasises the Scorpio ability to be very resourceful and creative, and also to make do with what one already has. Motivational Mars is in the industrious and ambitious sign of Capricorn all month, further enabling solid plans for advancement. Communicative Mercury moves in to Scorpio on the 9th and entices us to dig deep and get to the bottom of things, confront our fears and limiting habits and be ready for transformation and change. The full moon is on the 6th in Taurus and the new moon is on the 22nd in Sagittarius

will help you to get through any difficulty. The new moon in your sign on the 22nd brings a completely new and upbeat energy.

Capricorn:

December 23 - January 19 You may feel that recharging your batteries is top of your agenda for this month. It’s important to enjoy rest and relaxation, preferably with like-minded people. Communications in your career area are good and intuition will be at an all-time high, particularly after the 22nd.

Aquarius:

January 20 - February 19 The Sun, Venus and Saturn are culminating at the highest point of your chart this month. Career goals and ambitions are totally in the spotlight, ensuring that you enjoy confidence in your own ideas. The new moon in far reaching Sagittarius on the 22nd brings brilliant opportunities your way.

Pisces:

February 20 - March 20 November is a time to seek distraction and excitement, faraway places and adventure may beckon and you’ll certainly feel that it is a good time to let your hair down and have some fun. The full moon on the 6th brings some interesting people and stimulating conversations your way.

Visit www.AlongTheThames.co.uk For how you can navigate your way to success in December Christine Chalkin has an International client base and all her consultations are available in person, by telephone or Skype. What does 2015 look like for you? Access you highest potential, tune into positive and productive planetary cycles and successfully plan your year ahead. I’m offering a one hour Skpe or telephone ‘year ahead’ consultation for the special price of £45. For more information contact Christine at www.restyleyourlife.co.uk, Christine@restyleyourlife.co.uk, Telephone: 07813 483549

54 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Gifts for people with pets

Buster is a brilliant solution to storing your wet weather boots, either at home or in the car. Big enough to hold wellies for a family of 4 with high sides to stop boots from toppling. Space saving Buster will collapse down when not fully occupied and is made from beautiful, printed oilcloth lined with strong, waterproof nylon, with 2 woven linen webbing handles for easy transportation when full and a very useful external oilcloth pocket to keep towels and toys to hand too. Made in the UK, exclusively for Poppy & Rufus. Buster Welly Bag: Available in three exclusive fabrics - Poppy, Rufus or Leaf - £45 - www.poppyandrufus. co.uk This official Animal Planet™ Dog Costume transforms your little friend into a Peacock or a Zebra! The Animal Planet Peacock Costume includes a character headpiece with various plush details .100% polyester. Available in four different sizes including XSmall, Small, Medium & Large - Peacock £24.99, Zebra £19.95 - www.amazon.co.uk (then search for animal planet dog costume) When tucking into your Christmas pudding this year, treat your pet to their very own pupbake™ which comes in a range of 3 delicious flavours, including a special festive ‘Roast Turkey’ treat - from £2.99 www.pupbake.co.uk Tetra Peppa Pig Aquarium - The perfect starter kit for children with everything to discover the fun of fishkeeping. The tank includes all of the essentials to keep your goldfish healthy - £35 - www.tetra.net

BROTT collars and leashes are stylish, modern and fashion focused, handmade and a percentage of their profit is donated to animal protection organizations. www.triitme.com

The Police approved Light Switch Timer. Program your main lights to switch on and off when you’re not home. It simply fits over your existing light switch, it can be fitted by anyone in seconds - £29.99 - www. lightswitchtimer.co.uk/ petlight. Visit For your chance to win one, http://www.alongthethames. co.uk/competition-entries

Shedding is the most widespread problem reported by owners, although we love to cuddle our adorable pets, there is nothing more frustrating than loose hairs sticking to our clothes etc. FURminator products have been designed by a professional groomer for maximum hair removal and grooming session will reduce shedding by up to 90%. from £26.50 - www.furminator.net

I always buy my dogs something lovely for Christmas, a new toy, some treats, sometimes some lovely smelling shampoo! I wanted to find something a bit different this year, so a couple of my favourite finds are also up for grabs as reader prizes.....find out more below! Claire Fryer Mini bones from Pooch and Mutt, are perfect for a treat (I can confirm that my dogs Sookie and Fergus loved trying them!) or for those stressful situations, such as visiting the vet as they contain ingredients such as chamomile.

www.poochandmutt.co.uk

We have 5 tubs of their lovely CALM & RELAXED dog treats to giveaway..... perfect stocking fillers for your dogs! How’s this for a gorgeous doggy stocking filler? And all for a good canine cause too. We have one to giveaway: The Dogs Trust Complete Care set is a three-piece collection containing a hydrating shampoo, a moisturising conditioner and a shopper bag. Keep your dog’s coat in tip-top www.dogstrust.org.uk condition with this set worth £15. Forthglade’s range of pet foods provide top quality meals using only the best ingredients to create a range of flavours. Carefully sourced fresh meat and nutritious brown rice and vegetables to make wholesome complete meals which helps to care for your pets’ health without adding preservatives, artificial flavours or colours. We have a month’s supply of Forthglade.natural and nutritionally balanced dog food to giveaway. The prize will be based on Forthglade’s recommended daily feed for your dog depending on breed and size; the experts at Forthglade will contact you to discuss

www.forthglade.co.uk

For your chance to win one of these giveaways, please visit http://www.alongthethames. co.uk/competition-entries/ LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 55

A Good Read ... Lionheart Robert Taylor

Lionheart by Robert Taylor An investigative journalist’s descent into the murky world of neo-Nazism Investigative journalist Sean Bryant is hot on the trail of the Knights Tempest, an underground, neo-Nazi organization making preparations for its own final solution to society’s undesirables – any minority without the power to fight back. Hotter still is the unexpected involvement of six well-respected public figures, but before he can expose them, he and his story are stolen away into the night. As violence rages throughout Europe – bombings and shootings at the hands of the Knights Tempest – the true scope of their vision for domination unfolds, ledby the eponymous Lionheart, whose controversial identity remains a mystery. A Special Forces team may be the only thing capable of matching the fundamentalist rightwingers with a suitable demise. The fact that the team comprises a black man, a gay man and a woman is an irony that cannot go unnoticed. With danger attacking from all sides, it’s not a great time to be an investigative journalist. £17.99

Disturbance in Time?

by Ron Jayes A gripping, time-travelling novel asking questions that we all need the answers to In this disturbing, exhilarating debut novel, three apparently unconnected events and places are all mysteriously bound up across time and space… In 1668, in an isolated community in the wilds of Exmoor, a poor peasant family is terrorized by a crazed witchfinder. More than three-hundred years later, the crew of HMS Leopard welcome on board two distraught young girls, the survivors of a shipwreck off the coast of East Africa. And at the beginning of the new millennium three geeky lads build an experimental computer and end up with much more than they bargained for. Part fantasy, part thriller, this is a powerful novel that asks profound questions about the nature of destiny and responsibility, power and love. £17.99

An Interesting Year by Nick Weatherhogg A fascinating diary filled with fun, and often quirky facts. Most people, famous or not so famous, have at least one bizarre or surprising facet to their lives – all that is needed is someone to research and collate them. Statistician Nick Weatherhogg has used his obsession with gathering random facts to produce this unique and strangely compelling collection, a yearbook for anyone who finds lists irresistible. Every day of the year has a separate page, and includes two famous people – one who was born on that date, and one who passed away. The format for each celebrity is the same: a summary of the reasons for their fame, a bizarre fact about their life, and a quotation. To round off each date there is an unexpected and unusual fact – the kind of data that is invaluable to quiz compilers and participants. £9.99

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 http://www.alongthethames.co.uk/competitionentries/ by 5th December 2014 BOOK GUILD

The books on this page are from Book Guild Publishing ion

n’s re i ld

Fic t

PUBLISHING

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

56 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Capture the magic of Christmas with the National Trust Mulled wine, mince pies and mistletoe, there are some festive traditions without which Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas. At the National Trust, we revel in the traditions and history attached to our houses and gardens, and gain much of our inspiration at Christmas from the way previous owners and guests would have celebrated the festive season. If you’re searching for that extraspecial Christmas decoration or on the hunt for perfect gifts, you’ll find plenty of ideas in the National Trust gift shops and every purchase supports the Trust’s work as an independent charity. National Trust membership (annual from £27) provides free unlimited visits for a whole year to the places the Trust cares for across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, so it’s the perfect gift for someone who wants to get out and explore. HUGHENDEN MANOR, HIGH WYCOMBE: A Victorian Country Christmas Another traditional Christmas will be celebrated at Hughenden Manor – the former home of the great 19th century statesman, Benjamin Disraeli. Here, rooms will be dressed for an authentic

country house Victorian Christmas, and the Manor open every day throughout December (closed 24 & 25 Dec). The hub of Hughenden is the Stable Yard where seasonal fare will be served in the restaurant and the choirs and bell-ringers will be popping in to create a special festive atmosphere. Children can visit Father Christmas during weekends in December, when there will also be family craft sessions to enjoy (booking not required). Open daily in December, 11am to 5pm (closed 24 &25 Dec). Santa will be in his grotto at weekends only (separate charge applies). GREYS COURT, NEAR HENLEY: A nostalgic family Christmas Opening daily in December, Greys Court is the perfect place to step back in time and experience the nostalgia of a home-spun family Christmas in the 1940s and 50s. Greys Court was the home of Sir Felix and Lady Brunner from 1937 and the intimate rooms still reflect the comfortable life they led there with their sons. This year we have delved into the guest book of Greys Court so that you can find out about the Brunner's family and friends, including poets and politicians, artists and Archbishops, and

the way they celebrated Christmas. The popular Cow Shed tea-room will be offering a range of delicious hot and cold refreshments and festive fare, much of which uses produce from the kitchen garden. Open daily in December, 10am to 4pm. (Closed 24 & 25 Dec) CLIVEDEN, NEAR MAIDENHEAD: Winter walks and Christmas Trail The magnificent gardens of Cliveden are perfect for a winter walk and you can also enjoy light refreshments in the Dovecote Coffee Shop and do some Christmas shopping while you are there. You can even buy holly and mistletoe freshly cut from the Cliveden estate, and a locally grown Christmas tree. At weekends before Christmas in December families can follow a special festive trail around the gardens incorporating traditional Christmas activities such as helping to decorate a tree and playing charades, as well as finding some small gifts and a chance to help Father Christmas in his workshop. (£5 per child). Open daily, 10am to 4pm (closed Christmas Day) until the end of the year. Normal admission charges apply to all the above, but if you are a member of the National Trust, entry is free.

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 57

Local landscape

edgehog or Erinaceus europeaeus to give them their posh latin name. These small spiny, mainly nocturnal creatures are commonly seen in our urban parks and gardens. However, it was not always so

The Hedgehog has been driven from its natural countryside home because of changes in farming practices. Hedgerows and fields lying fallow are becoming a thing of the past, in our efforts to get every ounce food from our limited farmlands. Having been driven from the countryside the humble Hedgehog has become our urban neighbour. Our love of grass and gardens, that surround our homes, have taken over from the hedgerow and field. Providing a supply of caterpillars, beetles and earthworms all the things a Hedgehog could wish for. At this time of year Hedgehogs are about to enter hibernation. They will sleep through the worst of the winter when food is in short supply. But to do this they need to put on weight to help them survive hibernation. For over what could be a long winter they may lose a quarter of their body weight. This year’s young known as hoglets’ need to reach at least 600g before they will enter

hibernation without this body mass hibernation is a very risqué option. If you are lucky enough to have a hedgehog visit your garden take a good look at this evolution marvel. Body hairs on its back have evolved into thousands of spines, some up to 25mm long. On hearing an unusual noise your average hedgehog will curl into a tight ball presenting wood be predators with a sharp problem. I say noise because Hedgehog eyesight is not the best and they rely on a keen sense of hearing and smell. If you haven’t got a Hedgehog in your garden then there are ways you can help attract them. If you have a fence why not make it hedgehog friendly and leave a small gap at the bottom so a wandering hog can investigate your garden. In the summer, they are the gardener’s friend keeping slugs and worms down. Your local hedgehog will be visiting several gardens on its nightly search for food. Hedgehogs

58 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

can cover up to 1500m a night. Make your garden hedgehog friendly. Don’t use slug pellets, if you have a pond make sure it has a mammal ramp. Hedgehogs are strong swimmers but most drown because they can’t climb out of your pond. In the summer you can offer food as an enticement. Dog food on a shallow saucer and a supply of water is the best way to encourage a visit. But please, no cows’ milk. Its fine for us but it is just like a poison to Hedgehogs. One last thing if you are lighting bonfires, tidying up or strimming in your garden this autumn please check for a sleepy Hedgehog first. You may save a life. If you would like to know more about Hedgehogs, lots of information is available on the British Hedgehog Preservation Society website http:// www.britishhedgehogs.org.uk/ Jacky & Mark Bloomfield

MINUTES WITH .... ALAN TITCHMARSH

HOW DID THE BOOK COME ABOUT? I’ve been in and around royal houses and their gardens for quite a while, and it just struck me that I didn’t have a book about them all. I thought it might be nice to take a modern look at the history of all the Queen’s houses - Buckingham Palace, Sandringham, Windsor Castle, Balmoral and Holyrood, the ones that are hers both privately and officially. HOW DID YOU RESEARCH IT? DID YOU GET ACCESS TO ROYAL ARCHIVES? Over the years I’ve visited the places officially and unofficially, and like everybody else, I do my research. Some online, but mainly through books. I’ve always been interested in the history of the monarchy and where they live, so a lot of it was based on my archive, as it were. WERE THERE ANY SHOCKS WHILE YOU WERE DOING YOUR RESEARCH? They’re a lot more colourful than you think they are, the amount of things that’ve gone on within their walls. The stories are fascinating, stories of real people who did amazing things. People have even been murdered in the royal houses. THE HOUSES ARE RATHER SCATTERED ABOUT. EVEN YORKSHIRE, GOD’S OWN COUNTY, DOESN’T HAVE ONE! Ha ha! It’s clearly an oversight! IS IT TRUE YOU’RE SCALING BACK YOUR WORKLOAD? I am, slightly, but I’m certainly not retiring. I’m doing the last run of my chat show at the moment, and I’ll still be on television, so nobody will notice it except me. But hopefully it’ll mean I can spend more time with my children and grandchildren. AND YOU’RE GOING TO BE APPEARING IN THE WIND OF THE WILLOWS SOON? I am, which is terribly exciting. Talk about scaling back - I sign off from the chat show, have a week off and then I go straight into rehearsals! It’s a wonderful ballet, and I’m narrating it from the end of November to the beginning of January - sometimes it’s nine performances a week. Sixty-seven altogether. I’ve failed at scaling back, I think! DO YOU HAVE A DREAM PROJECT YOU’D LOVE TO GET OFF THE GROUND? I’ve always been one of these folk who have tried to sieze opportunities when they come. You never know what’s around the corner, and if you plan, and try to get things going, they often come to nought. So I keep my eyes open and take opportunities when they come along. DO YOU THINK YOUR BOOK COULD BE TURNED INTO A TV SERIES? It would make an excellent series. Bits of it have been done. We’ve had programmes about Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace, but Sandringham isn’t really known, and neither is Balmoral, so

it’s a possibility. IS IT TRUE THAT YOU FANCY DOING STRICTLY COME DANCING IN THE FUTURE? I’ve been asked for the last few years, which is very flattering, but I’ve said no. It’s nice to be asked, but better to gratefully decline. I love watching it, but I don’t want to be the old man. You know on Strictly that you’re the old one when they keep your shirt buttoned up to the top, and it’d feel rather sad to get to that stage! WHEN YOU LOOK BACK AT YOUR CAREER, WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER TO BE YOUR PROUDEST ACHIEVEMENT? I think just managing to be gainfully employed in a job I find stimulating. So many highlights really. Presenting the Last Night of the Proms for four years, making a garden for Nelson Mandela... things I never imagined I’d do. I still thoroughly enjoy writing. It’s a wonderfully solitary occupation, and a great counterpoint to the sociability that is television. But I enjoy both. I like people, so talking to folk and listening to them on the chat show has been enormous fun. WHAT ELSE HAVE YOU GOT IN THE PIPELINE? After The Wind in the Willows, a lie down, I think! I’ve got another series of Love Your Garden next year, which have been great fun to do. I’ve just finished a series that’ll air next year called Britain’s Best Back Gardens, in which we ask people to nominate their back gardens, and I’ve been going round about 30 of them. ANY MORE BOOKS? WHAT ABOUT FICTION? There will be another novel. I’ve got one to write that will come out in the Spring of 2016. I do a novel every other year now, and then we’ll see. The Queen’s Houses by Alan Titchmarsh published by BBC Books, price £20 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 59

Tree Removal

The team at Calibra Tree Surgeons tackle the difficult question as to when you should remove a tree. Tree removal should always be the last resort, but sometimes there are circumstances where it is necessary. Seek professional advice from an arborist, who can advise whether or not a tree should be removed, depending on the conditions. A professionally trained arborist has the skills and equipment to safely and efficiently remove a tree when the situation arises. Removal is recommended when a tree: • is dead, dying, or considered irreparably hazardous • is causing an obstruction

Large Tree Dismantling Tree Thinning and Pruning

• is crowding and causing harm to other trees and the situation is impossible to correct through pruning • is to be replaced by a more suitable specimen • should be removed to allow for construction With regular maintenance trees can be attractive and can add considerable value to your property. Poorly maintained trees on the other hand can be a significant liability. Pruning or removing trees especially large trees can be dangerous work. It should be performed only by those trained and equipped to work safely on trees.

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60 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

CRAB APPLE (MALUS) These deciduous small trees are ideal grown as specimens in smaller gardens, bearing crab apples in autumn in colours ranging from yellow to red. The leaves also change colour, going from yellow to orange, while in spring they produce masses of blossom ranging from white to pink and red. Crab apples can be grown in any fertile well-drained soil in sun and will tolerate light shade. They should be pruned

in winter to remove diseased or damaged wood and misplaced shoots. Good varieties include M. 'John Downie', which grows to 10m or M. 'Marshal Oyama', which is slightly smaller. The small, sour fruits contain high pectin and acid contents, making them excellent for jam, paired with berries. Traditional crab apple jelly can be served with meats and is great when perked up with a few chillis.

Advertising Feature

Stylish Gardens for the Whole Family Gardens should be places to relax in, play in, work out or grow in, but all should be around enjoyment. One thing is for certain; being able to be outside in the garden is something both parents and kids love, and this need not be restricted to spring and summer. Whittling away hours in a garden is a free way to entertain children and this can be introduced by adding creativity, colour and fun without losing style.

CREATE A WILDFLOWER AREA Simple to implement, big or small, maintenance free and attracts much loved wildlife ADD LOG PILES AND INSECT HOMES Attract native birds into the garden. Kids love lifting up the logs and peering in to see worms, bugs, butterflies and creepy crawlies. PLANT ALLIUMS Not only do alliums add beautiful colour into beds and borders from April-June, trust me, kids love looking and playing with them once they have flowered. TOP TIP: plant allium giganteum (the biggest allium) can grow up to a foot wide! PLANT A FEW FRUIT TREES If space is limited properly pruned fruit tree do not take up too much room. Children can learn where fruit comes from as well as giving a source of fruit - plums, apples, pears and the like. TOP TIP: plant cross pollinating trees. INSTALL ARTIFICIAL LAWN Available in many styles and prices so be careful when checking quality. Artificial lawns are easy to install and provide an area to play on all the year round. No need to mow again! SINK YOUR TRAMPOLINE Maintain the flow of the garden by sinking the trampoline into the ground INSTALL RAISED VEGETABLE & HERB BEDS Educational, interactive and best of all your own supply of herbs, salads and vegetables throughout the Year. TOP TIP: find a pastel or louder colour for raised beds, fences or sheds, it will transform a garden. Colourful, practical, low cost yet stylish gardens can be achieved to entertain grown-ups, kids, friends and family.

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The Henley Living Advent Calendar The Henley Living Advent Calendar is based on an original idea from Stockholm and began here in 2011. It runs every evening from Dec 1st to 24th, along with the Living Advent Calender in Windsor Like a children’s Advent Calendar, a different window or door is opened at 6:15pm promptly each evening and a 30 minute plus performance is given to the audience assembled, so it not only feels like a bigger occasion this year, adding to the enjoyment and experience. Performers will range from solo singers and bands, to choirs, to musicians, to dance troupes, to dramatic performances and some unusual one off ‘variety’ acts. New to 2014 is a film competition where young film makers have an opportunity to see their short film screened at the Regal Picturehouse on one of the nights of the Living Advent, with some great prizes for the winners. Not to forget our ‘faithful friends, the 4th December is very much ‘bring your dog night’ at the Bandstand at Mill Meadows with Naughty Mutt Nice partnering that night with some treats for canine companions. Raffle tickets are sold every evening for selected

local Charities. This years charities are Headway Thames Valley, Camp Mohawk, the Chiltern Centre, Regatta for the Disabled and Riverside Counselling. It is a collaborative project between the Henley Living Advent Calendar Trust, the Henley Partnership & Henley Town Council, bringing together nearly 100 local businesses and organisations to provide entertainment on each of the twenty four days leading up to Christmas 2014. This year there is also a joint project with Henley Town Council to put on a treasure hunt, where if people attend 24 venues (which could be the 24 Advent nights, or a mixture of Advent performances and other specified locations) they are able to enter a fabulous free prize draw. Don’t forget to join us for the , new, ‘switch on’ event in Market Place Henley on 21 November when the Christmas lights will be switched on (but not the main Xmas tree), and there will be very much a festival feel to the town centre, with a programme of events and performances, including a ‘Living Advent taster’.For more information visit www. livingadventcalendar.co.uk for all venues and events on during December.

62 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

CRYPTIC Crossword ACROSS

DOWN

2. Tending to be a tap dancer (3) 3. Give her my new poem (5) 4. A divine drink prepared in a trance (6) 5. I.e. start to confuse the entertainer (7) 6. Proposes characters from Minnesota (9) 7. Being thoughtful, care is noted somehow (11) 8. Sue, Hal and Mandy fight it out without an apology (11) 12. The best inner-directed composer/conductor (9) 15. Withdraw due to a slight injury (7) 17. Don’t charge the French aristocrat (3,3) 19. Bert Weedon’s material (5) 21. Suffer a very good student (3)

Martin adaMs

16 17

22 Across: 1 Patron saint; 9 Opt; 10 Yachtsman; 11 Sabre; 13 Assents; 14 Duress; 16 Bertha; 18 Reserve; 19 Taste; 20 Twenty-one; 21 Awl; 22 On the fiddle. Down: 2 Apt; 3 Rhyme; 4 Nectar; 5 Artiste; 6 Nominates; 7 Considerate; 8 Unashamedly; 12 Bernstein; 15 Scratch; 17 Let off; 19 Tweed; 21 Ail.

1. George, for example, unites two men - it’s an awful mistake (6,5) 9. Choose to upset the pot (3) 10. Cathy’s out to get a bloke - a sailor (9) 11. Fighting bears with a sword (5) 13. Agrees that Sean’s about to dig up the road (7) 14. Being awfully rude on ship due to coercion (6) 16. Girl who’s out of breath (6) 18. Stand-in about to star a game of tennis (7) 19. A new state of discernment (5) 20. A key number (6-3) 21. Tool used to break the law (3) 22. How a violin concerto is played dishonestly (2,3,6)

MARTIN ADAMS:MARTIN ADAMS.qxd 13/04/2010 10:31 Page 1

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LEXUS NX 300H WHAT’S NEW? This is more of a case of what isn’t new, because the NX is fresh off the drawing board as a little brother to the muchrespected RX. If the RX 400h hybrid was the father of socially-acceptable SUVs, the NX 300h is a not-so-distant cousin. LOOKS AND IMAGE: The styling is as sharp as a supermodel’s face, and you’ll probably either love it or hate it. That’s what Lexus wants, because you can’t please everybody and it’s better to please some people a lot than fade into the background. The NX is no shrinking violet, as long as you avoid silver. There’s a completely new colour option that layers ordinary paint over a highly compressed layer of flake to create a deeper, more lustrous shine. Even in white the difference is obvious - and deliciously premium. SPACE AND PRACTICALITY: Choose anything above the basic S model and you’ll benefit from winterbeating four-wheel drive. The NX is a bit of a Tardis, too, with 475 litres of boot space courtesy of a huge hidden compartment and enough rear legroom to let your kids have a game of boules. There’s also a space-saver spare wheel as standard - unique among the NX’s rivals. But check this out for a practical feature: the bottle holder in the centre console has a high-friction base so you can open twist-cap drinks with one hand. Very neat. There’s also an induction charging pad that needs no wires to charge a compatible handset. You’re basically driving the future. BEHIND THE WHEEL: For the most part the NX is high quality, especially the leathers. There are one or two small bits of Toyotaspec plastic but they’re easy to ignore.

The touch-pad computer interface is actually more intuitive than you might initially give it credit for, too. The drive is impressively refined, with supple suspension, decent body control and super-smooth response from the hybrid powertrain. It’s not that hard to accelerate gently away using just the electric motor, but on the other hand the outright performance is nothing Usain Bolt would get excited about. There’s no two ways

users, tech geeks and obviously people who’ve had enough of the usual German options. The NX is a clever car, and a lot of people should appreciate its comfort, gadgets and generally premium feel. This deserves to be the car that boosts Lexus’ UK sales to the next level. THIS CAR SUMMED UP IN A SINGLE WORD: Advanced

“If this car was a ... an animal it would be a chimpanzee. It’s intelligent, versatile and well put-together. about it - it’s pretty pedestrian. At least the seats are worth a postcard home. Big, perfectly supportive and highly adjustable, the only caveat is for drivers who like their seat back very upright, at which point the forward-leaning antiwhiplash headrests become a pain. The Mark Levinson stereo - exclusive to the Premier trim grade - is worth a mention too. It has special software to identify and compensate for the lost quality of compressed digital music, and as long as the source is hooked up via a wired connection, it’s brilliant. Music played via Bluetooth doesn’t benefit in the same way. VALUE FOR MONEY? The NX has stiff opposition from its German arch-enemies, but it’s more than good enough to win fans at the mid-range Luxury price of ¬£34,495. Classic FMsmooth hybrid drive is a big selling point and the clever on-board tech is right on the money. It’s just a shame that so much of it is reserved for this ¬£42,995 Premier range-topper. WHO WOULD BUY ONE? There are USPs for parents, business

64 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Matt Kimberley

FACTS AT A GLANCE Lexus NX 300h Premier, from £42,995 Drivetrain: 2.5-litre petrol engine and electric motors, together producing 192bhp Transmission: E-CVT automatic driving the front wheels (independent motor drives the rears) Performance: Top speed 112mph, 0-62mph in 9.2 seconds Economy: 54.3mpg combined Emissions: 121g/km of CO2

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Temple Golf Club

value for money Winter food & golf packages starting from £35pp

Temple Golf Club (near Marlow) with over 100 years of history and an increasingly modern approach, oﬀers a flexible lifestyle membership, ranging from ‘platinum’ to ‘blue’ for today’s modern golfer. Temple’s new approach can oﬀer the flexibility to fit in with your lifestyle. For more information on our lifestyle packages call: 01628 824 795 or email us at secretary@templegolfclub.co.uk www.templegolfclub.co.uk

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High Wycombe

Princes Risborough

10 Cross Court, Plomer Green Ave, Downley, High Wycombe HP13 5UW

Woodway, Princes Risborough, Bucks, HP27 0NN

01494 443933

feetfirst

66 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

01844 273050

www.independentliv.co.uk

RSBoiler Services Company No 5674

Gas, Oil, Heating, Plumbing, Electric, LPG, Propane, Butane Established in 1977

• Free Estimates • Combi & Condensing specialists • Boiler/System installations • Power Flushing • Gas Leaks • Account Customers Welcome • Insurance Work • All makes of Boilers serviced or repaired

Tel: 01628 483099 www.rsboilerservices.co.uk 25 Woodland Way, Marlow, Bucks, SL7 3LD

Please cut out and leave near your Boiler for a fast response in the event of a breakdown

R.S. HALL UPHOLSTERY 30 years experience

ALL UPHOLSTERY WORK UNDERTAKEN Ω re-upholstery Ω sofas & chairs Ω loose covers Ω antiques

Ω pubs & clubs Ω schools Ω hospitals Ω office chairs

large contracts - over 300 fabrics available

Free Estimates Contact Bob on

07809 140988 / 01494 461481

email: contact@rshallupholstery.co.uk www.rshallupholstery.co.uk

D AVI D B R AY DOMESTIC PLUMBING & HEATING SPECIALISTS • Good local reliable service

• Boiler replacements & installations • Central Heating systems • Bathroom Installations • General Plumbing Maintenance Call now for more information & free quotation

07725 748726 01628 478935

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 67

NATURAL GAS

LPG

PROPANE

BUTANE

SPECIALISTS IN CONDENSING BOILERS & COMBINATION BOILERS New Boilers Boiler Servicing Warm Air Units Unvented Hot Water Cylinders Boiler Break downs Power Flushing Gas Fires Serviced Gas Leaks Traced and Repaired New Gas Runs Landlords Gas Safety Inspections

Carbon Monoxide is a silent killer, it kills people every year...Don’t let it be you! ALL ASPECTS OF PLUMBING, HEATING AND ELECTRICAL, WETROOMS, BATHROOMS & KITCHEN INSTALLATIONS, ALL WALL AND FLOOR TILING

01628 477040 01628477171 www.coleltd.co.uk

M: 07774212695 F: 01628 478391 info@coleltd.co.uk

28 Newtown Road, Marlow, Bucks SL7 1JU

Assignment Cleaning Services Ltd

Quality Window Cleaning Using Safe & Efﬁcient Reach & Wash system Commercial & Domestic Fully Insured

A clean carpet is not ALL we guarantee

FREE Quotes Established in Marlow since 1984

Tel: 01628 483952 www.assignmentcleaningservices.com

Need a Plumber Ltd? esT.1961 Family business

Call 07825 738883 01628 783590 All work guaranteed 12 months

68 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

We guarantee the quality of all our cleaning services: Carpets • Rugs • Hard Floors Soft Furnishings • Stain Removal Monthly & Seasonal Offers available on: facebook.com/ServicemasterNewbury @SM_Newbury

Free Phone 0800 783 7713 www.servicemasternewbury.co.uk 43237

Sweep Dreams Chimney Services Member of the Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps Fully Insured. Certiﬁcate issued.

Contact your local sweep on 01628 476663 / 07913905042 Email: sweepdreamschimneys@gmail.com Web: www.sweepdreamschimneys.co.uk or visit www.guildofmasterchimneysweeps.co.uk enter postcode SL7 3JX

... We clean your oven ... so you don’t have to Call today to have your OVEN, HOB EXTRACTOR or AGA professionally cleaned Call Nigel Taylor

Tel: 01628 696013 Mob: 07516 472657

www.ovenwizards.com

Looking for a window cleaner, carpet cleaner or perhaps a painter? Over the next few pages are local services to suit your needs. If you would like to advertise on these pages please call 01628 627488 or email office@alongthethames.co.uk

Cruise in Comfo

Beautiful Inspection Launch for Sale

Cruise in style aboard the elegant LADY ANTONIA catching the eye of many an envious onlooker. Experience the tranquility of the waterways from the sheltered well deck or for those chillier days cruise in the comfort of the double glazed, centrally heated cabin. A bespoke fitted galley boasts granite worktops, cooker and fridge. There’s even a flushing wc for your convenience! All steel construction. Lying in Private Marina Guide price £62,000 For full details visit www.abnb.co.uk

For friendly helpful advice from our experienced and knowledgeable team of boaters www.abnb.co.uk • admin@abnb.co.uk • Open 9.30 to 5.30 every day • Tel: 01788 822 115 or 01788 822 508 Lady Antonia.indd 1

22/10/14 12:41:37 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 69

O u t & Ab o u t 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 November 13+14: ‘Hedge Laying Introductory Course’ at Hughenden Manor, 10:0016:00, why not try your hand at the local style of hedge laying, please bring a packed lunch – 01494 755573, £50 for 2 days. (B) (NT) 14: ‘Theatres in the Villages – Morgan & West Parlour Tricks’ at North Dean Village Hall, 20:00 doors open 19:00, £10 – 01494 563980 or 07850 789212. 14: ‘Theatres in the Village – The Ian English Boodlum Band’ at the War Memorial Hall, Downley, £12/£8, 20:00 – 07582 710865. 14: ‘Tiny Talk Time – King of the Jungle’ special time for the under 5’s, includes stories, trails & craft activities at Wycombe Museum, £2, 10:30-11:30 or 13:15-14:15, 01494 421895. 15: ‘High Wycombe Society Annual Big Concert’ 19:30 at All Saints Church, High Wycombe – Haydn’s Cecilia Mass & Mozart’s Harp and Flute Concerto, tickets £14/£12 from High Wycombe Information Centre. 15: Berkshire Brass with Ken Harratt at Christ Church, Marlow. 15: ‘High Wycombe Society Annual Big Concert’ 19:30 at All Saints Church, High Wycombe – Haydn’s Cecilia Mass & Mozart’s Harp and Flute Concerto, tickets £14/£12 from High Wycombe Information Centre. 17: ‘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). 17: ‘Local Photographs’ a talk by Barry Lea on behalf of The Marlow Society, 19.30, Garden Room, Liston Hall. 18: ‘The Vatican Museums’, 19:00, Regal Picture house, Henley, www. picturehouses.co.uk, 0871 902 5738, 2 Baroma Way, RG9 2BZ 19: ‘The Vatican Museums’, 1.30pm. Regal Picture house, Henley, www. picturehouses.co.uk, 0871 902 5738, 2 Baroma Way, RG9 2BZ 20: ‘Henley River and Rowing

Museum Local Collection’, a talk for Archaeology in Marlow, 20.00, Garden Room, Liston Hall. - www. archaeologyinmarlow.org.uk 20: Marlow Christmas Light Switch On, High Street, Marlow. with late night shopping and Christmas Treasure Trail with prizes! 18:30. 20: ‘Strictly Live & Cooking with Greg Wallace’ in aid of Scannappeal, held at Sytner High Wycombe, (London Road) from 19:30, tickets from £25 from High Wycombe Tourist Information Centre (includes welcome drink) 20: The East Berks RSPB Group, talk ‘Sri Lanka’s birds, birding sites and national park’, David Cromack, 7.30pm to 9.30pm, the High Street Methodist Church Hall in Maidenhead. www. eastberksrspb.org.uk. 21: Marlow Community Association invite you to enjoy us and help raise funds at a ‘Bridge Drive’ at Liston Hall, 19:00-22:30 tables £48, inclusive of supper – 01628 472558. 21: ‘Souled Out’, a night of reviving great soul classics and dance floor fillers (£25pp Inc. a 2 course dinner), 19.30-midnight, Crowne Plaza Hotel, Fieldhouse Lane. To book: 01628 496860. 21: ‘Theatre in the Villages – Morgan & West: Parlour Tricks’ at Longburrow Hall, Stokenchurch, 20:00 (doors open 19:00) £10, 01494 482406. 21: ‘Marlow Community Association – Bridge Drive’ at Liston Hall, 19:0022:30 tables £48 includes supper for details – 01628 472558. 22: ‘Archaeological Finds Identification’ at Wycombe Museum, Ros Tyrell will identify your finds and record them on the Portable Antiques Website, 14:00-16:00. 22: ‘Met Live : Il Barbiere di Siviglia’, 5.55pm, Regal Picture house, Henley, www.picturehouses.co.uk, 0871 902 5738, 2 Baroma Way, RG9 2BZ 22: ‘St Mary’s Pre-school, Christmas Bazaar, at St Mary’s Church, Marlow Bottom, 14:00-16:00, raffle, tombola, Father Christmas in his Grotto, stalls, children’s games and much more. 23: ‘Christmas Market’, carol singers,

mulled wine, mince pies and stalls, free entry 11.00-16.00, Crowne Plaza Hotel, Fieldhouse Lane. 23: ‘Princes Risborough Music Society & Marlow Choral Society – ‘The Music of Amadeus Mozart’s Requiem, 19:30, at Wycombe Swan – 01628 471015 or 01494 562889. 23: ‘Danesfield School PTA Christmas Fair’ Henley Road, SL7 2EW, pick up some Christmas presents at our ‘Market Place’ get creative in the ‘Craft Room’, and sample some tasty treats at our traditional Christmas Fair, 12:00-15:00 23: A joint concert by Marlow Choral Society and Princes Risborough Music Society. Featuring the BBC Young Musician of the Year 2014, Martin James Bartlett. Conducted by Chris Grant with the Cygnus Orchestra of London.Wycombe Swan Theatre, High Wycombe. Time: 19.30.Tickets: Stalls/ Circle £16, Upper Circle £12. Tickets are available from 01628 471015 (MCS), 01494 562889 (PRMS) or Wycombe Swan box office: 01494 512000, www. wycombeswan.co.uk 23 Nov – 24 Dec: ‘Christmas Family Fun’ at Odds Farm Park, visit Santa in his special grotto and receive a top toy for Christmas then choose a free chocolate treat from our Christmas tree in the gift shop – 01628 520188 – www.oddsfarm. co.uk. 23: ‘Bolshoi :Pharoah’s Daughter’, 6.30pm, Regal Picture house, Henley, www.picturehouses.co.uk, 0871 902 5738, 2 Baroma Way, RG9 2BZ 24: ‘Met Live : Il Barbiere di Siviglia’, 1pm, Regal Picture house, Henley, www. picturehouses.co.uk, 0871 902 5738, 2 Baroma Way, RG9 2BZ 25: ‘Hockney’, 7pm, Regal Picture house, Henley, www.picturehouses.co.uk, 0871 902 5738, 2 Baroma Way, RG9 2BZ 25: ‘ROH Live : L’Elisir d’Amore’, 7.15pm, Regal Picture house, Henley, www.picturehouses.co.uk, 0871 902 5738, 2 Baroma Way, RG9 2BZ 24: ‘Exclusive Cliveden House Tour & National Trust Lunch’ 10:45-14:15, learn more about the history of the house and see some of the most exclusive rooms

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

70 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

O u t & Ab o u t

followed by a two course lunch in the Orangery, £35 to book call 01628 605069. (B) (NT) 24: ‘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). 26: ‘Wine Tasting’ with Marlow Wine Society. Old Butchers Wine Cellar from Cookham, present a selection of wines in an informal atmosphere, 20.00, Pugin Rooms, St Peter’s Church, St Peter Street. For more information: 01628 482299. 26: ‘Scannappeal Ladies Evening’ supported by Marks & Spencer’s, High Wycombe at The Vere Suite Adams Park, 18:30-22:00, tickets £12 each or £20 for two Fashion Shows at 19:00, 20:00 or 21:00 selection of beauty therapies and treatments plus bar and snacks, tickets from High Wycombe Tourist Information Centre – 01494 421892. 27: ‘Wine Tasting Event – Christmas Wines’ at The Assembly Rooms, 1 Market Square, Marlow, £37.50 includes food & wine samples – 01628 484817 – www. theassemblyroom.co.uk. 27-29: ‘The Vicar of Dibley’ by Marlow Players, Shelley Theatre, Court Garden, £12, under 12’s £5, 20:00, tickets from the Marlow Information Centre 28: ‘Tiny Talk time – The Wheels on the bus’ at Wycombe Museum, special time for under 5’s, includes stories, trails & craft activities, 10:30-11:30 or 13:1514:15, to book call 01494 421892. 28: ‘Mayor Vember Charity Auction’ at The Slug and Lettuce, all proceeds will be split between two of the Mayor’s charities – Marlow Opportunity Playgroup and Thames Valley Air Ambulance, Lots will consist of large canvas prints of Marlow Town and donated prizes, £5 suggested donation on entry will entry will entitle you to Fizz Cocktail. 29: Transition Town Marlow Community Market, local foods and crafts plus new free practical workshops, 09.30-13.00, Liston Hall. 29: ‘Theatre in the Villages – Movies & Musicals Sing Christmas’ at St Paul’s Church, Wooburn Green, 20:00, £10 – 01628 525512 or 01628 532394. 29+30 Nov: ‘Traditional Christmas’at Chiltern Open Air Museum, watch Father Christmas arrive in horse and carriage from the Ticket Office down to his Toll House Grottto,

Courtesy Santa’s Fun Run 2013

meet Father Christmas and receive a gift for £2.50, listen to carol singers, watch a Victorian Magic Lantern Show, advance booking recommended at Newland Park, Gorelands Lance, Chalfont St Giles – 01494 871117 – www.coam.org.uk 29+30 Nov: ‘Days out with Thomas to Meet Santa’ meet the Fat controller and visit Santa in his grotto at Didcot Railway, 01235 817200 – www.didcotrailwaycentre. org.uk 29 Nov-23 Dec: ‘Christmas Kingdom’ at Mead Open Farm, Billington, all undercover, the Elves and Santa return once again – 01525 852954 – www. meadopenfarm.co.uk 30: ‘Christmas Market’ at Wycombe Museum, pick up some original gifts as the Museum is transformed in to bustling craft market, from traditional crafts, stocking fillers and hot mulled wine and musical entertainment too! Free drop in 14:00-17:00 – 01494 421895 30: ‘Thomas and Santa Steaming Day’ at Bucks Railway Centre, Quainton Road, Aylesbury – 01296 655720 – www. bucksrailcentre.org 30: ‘Christmas Tree Trail’ at The Roald Dahl Museum, hunt for the Christmas trees throughout the Museum and find out about Roald Dahl’s marvellous motherland, Norway, 81-83 High Street, Great Missenden – 01494 892192 – www. roalddahlmuseum.org 30: Advent Carols by Candlelight, 6.30pm, Holy Trinity Church, Cookham, Retiring collection in aid of Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service

December 01 Dec -01Jan: ‘Victorian Christmas’ at Hughenden Manor, 11:00-15:00, come and see the Manor in all of it’s festive glory. Choral and musical performances

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

most days – 01494 755573. 01: ‘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). 02: ‘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! 02: ‘Marlow & District Wine Circle ‘Christmas Social Evening’ at Liston Hall, 20:00-22:00. 02: ‘Stand Up Comedy’ at The Assembly Rooms, 1 Market Square, Marlow, £5, tickets from the Marlow Information Centre. 02+03: ‘Christmas Workshop’ at Cliveden, wreath making, make your own beautiful wreath using fresh foliage from the Cliveden Estate, Tuesday 13:30-16:00 Wednesday 10:00-12:30 & 13:30-16:00 all tickets £35 o3: ‘Not all Over by Christmas’ – festivities in World War I’ special evening opening of Wycombe in WWI exhibition at the Museum, shop with tea and cake, 18:00-19:00, talk 19:00-20:00, £5 to book call 01494 421895. 03+04+06: Marlow Music Makers Christmas concert, 7.30pm, United Reformed Church, Oxford Road, Marlow. Tickets include a glass of wine and light refreshments during the interval, cost £10. Aavailable from Insight Opticians, High Street, Marlow or by telephoning 01628 484618 or 01494 883392 04+08: ‘The Old Vic’s The Crucible’, 7.30pm & 2.45pm, Regal Picture house, Henley, www.picturehouses.co.uk, 0871 902 5738, 2 Baroma Way, RG9 2BZ

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 71

O u t & Ab o u t

04: ‘Christmas Workshop’ at Cliveden, fun with felt, 10:30-15:30, come along and learn to make a lovely Christmas themed bunting or garland by hand, £45. 04: Marlow Christmas Late Night Shopping Evening, 18.00-21.00, High Street. 06: ‘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. 06: ‘Victorian Children at Christmas’ at Wycombe Museum 12:0016:00, have a special photograph taken of your children in Victorian costume, meet the cook and laundry maid, make your own Victorian style Christmas Card and festive decoration – 01494 421895. 06+07: ‘Christmas Trail at Cliveden, £5 per child,13+14 plus normal admission prices, 10:00-20+21 14:30. 07: ‘Santa’s Fun Run’, by the Rotary Clubs of Marlow, 2,250 entrants to celebrate the 10th anniversary of this colourful event, for more information or to book: www.santasfunrun.org. Good luck to all. 07: ‘Bolshoi : La Bayadere’, 2.30pm, Regal Picture house, Henley, www. picturehouses.co.uk, 0871 902 5738, 2 Baroma Way, RG9 2BZ 08: ‘Exhibition on Screen : Rembrandt’, 6.30pm, Regal Picture house, Henley, www.picturehouses.co.uk, 0871 902 5738, 2 Baroma Way, RG9 2BZ 9: ‘NT Live : John’, 8pm, Regal Picture house, Henley, www.picturehouses.co.uk, 0871 902 5738, 2 Baroma Way, RG9 2BZ 08: ‘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). 09: ‘Sensory Service in Bucks’ a talk for the High Wycombe Macular Society Support Group, at Wesley Methodist Church Hall, Priory Road, High Wycombe, 14:00-16:00. 11: ‘Monthly Tea Dance’ by the Marlow Community Association, 14.0016.00, Liston Hall. 11: ‘Christmas Quiz and Social’ Archaeology in Marlow’s annual quiz evening with raffle and seasonal refreshments at Garden room, Liston Hall, 20:00. 12: ‘Tiny Talk Times – Stars Bright!’ at Wycombe Museum, special time for under 5’s including stories, trails and craft

activities, 10:30-11:30 or 13:15-14:15, £2 per child, to book call 01494 421895. 13: ‘Hambleden Covered Market’, homemade cakes, cheeses, organic bread, local meat, crafts, collectables and hot food all day,10.00-15.00, Hambleden Village Hall. 13: Marlow Choral Society present their charity Christmas Carol Concert. hoted by Christine Walkden, proceeds to Bucks Air Ambulance and St Clare Hospice, Harlow. Shelley Theatre, Court Garden, Pound Lane, Marlow. Time: 19.30. Tickets: £12, children £6, from choir members, 01628 471015; Runners’ Retreat, 33 West Street, Marlow (from November 27); and on the door. www.marlowchoralsociety.org.uk. 13: Chiltern Society – Winter Night Walk & Geminids Meteor Shower, Whiteleaf Hill, Buckinghamshire, 19:0021:30. 13: ‘Festive Foliage Workshop’ at Wycombe Museum, 10:00-16:00, £15 to book in advance call – 01494 421895 13+14: ‘Christmas Trail at Cliveden’ Father Christmas is visiting Cliveden and have has left some fun seasonal activities and little stocking filler gifts along a special Christmas trail, follow the route through the gardens, 10:00-14:30, £5 per child plus normal admission fees. 15: ‘Met Opera Encore : DieMeistersinger von Nurnberg’, 12 noon, Regal Picture house, Henley, www. picturehouses.co.uk, 0871 902 5738, 2 Baroma Way, RG9 2BZ 15: ‘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). 18: ‘Carols on the Causeway’ 20+21: ‘Christmas Trail at Cliveden’ Father Christmas is visiting Cliveden and have has left some fun seasonal activities and little stocking filler gifts along a special Christmas trail, follow the route through the gardens, 10:00-14:30, £5 per child plus normal admission fees. 21: ‘Bolshoi : The Nutcracker’, 3pm, Regal Picture house, Henley, www. picturehouses.co.uk, 0871 902 5738, 2 Baroma Way, RG9 2BZ 22: ‘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: ‘Royal Opera House Encore :

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland’, 12.15pm, Regal Picture house, Henley, www.picturehouses.co.uk, 0871 902 5738, 2 Baroma Way, RG9 2BZ 25: Christmas Carols by Candlelight, 6.30pm, Holy Trinity Church, Cookham, Retiring collection in aid of Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service 29: ‘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). 31: ‘Berlin Philharmonic New Year’s Eve Gala’, 4.30pm, Regal Picture house, Henley, www.picturehouses.co.uk, 0871 902 5738, 2 Baroma Way, RG9 2BZ Until- Jan 2015: ‘Gruffalo’s Child Activity Trails’ at Wendover Woods. Until- 24 Dec: ‘Cards for Good Causes’ on sale at the Marlow Information Centre. ONGOING EVENTS - GENERAL 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 - www. marlowmuseum.org. Pound Lane opposite the Leisure Club Marlow Camera Club meet every Tuesday with a prearranged programme on Tuesday evenings, 19:45 - 20:00.The Methodist Church Hall, Spittal Street, Marlow, SL7 3HJ 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. Suitable for all levels except beginners. Tony on 07947 508755 anthony.mitchelmore@sky.com

For more information/changes to schedules as listed or information please call Marlow Information Centre on 01628 483597 or

Maidenhead Library on 01628 796969 or Henley Library on 01491 575278 72 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

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 The East Berks RSPB Group meet monthly from 7.30pm to 9.30pm on Thursdays at the High Street Methodist Church Hall in Maidenhead - www.eastberksrspb.org.uk 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 plus club weekends, coach rambles, and other social walking events. Di Olden - 01494 714486. - www.southbuckshfwalkingclub.co.uk Henley and Goring Ramblers, regular walks programme available - www.ramblers-oxon.org.uk/HG.htm ONGOING EVENTS - MARKETS 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 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.

Kindly sponsored by

MAIDENHEAD LIBRARY St Ives Road October 24th - December 17th Monday - Friday 9.30am - 5pm Saturdays 9.30am - 4pm T: 01264 361 555 or shop on-line at www.cardsforcharity.co.uk CARDS FOR GOOD CAUSES LIMITED IS THE TRADING COMPANY OF THE 1959 GROUP OF CHARITIES (REGISTERED CHARITY NO. 249039)

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Wallace & Gromit’s BIG Bake raises funds for Wallace and Gromit’s Children’s Charity, which supports children’s healthcare throughout the UK. Registered charity 1043603. Company number 04659630. © and ™ Aardman/Wallace & Gromit Limited 2014.

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LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 73

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 ................................. 07885 240209 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 River Thames Society ............................................... 624025 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 Thames Valley Adventure Playground ...................... 628599 COOKHAM - CLUBS Tennis & Croquet ........................................... 07968 173757 Line Dancing ............................................................ 486362 Petanque ............................ ..................................... 417453 Cookham Bridge Rotary Club ........................ 07724 042708 COOKHAM Library ....................................................................... 526147 Police ........................................................................ 531785 Bourne End & Cookham Rotary ................................ 810967 Stanley Spencer Gallery ........................................... 471885 Medical Centre ......................................................... 810242 BOURNE END Library ....................................................................... 524814 Community Centre ................................................... 527502

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 Marlow Striders ........................................................ 475548 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 Wycombe Council .......................................... 01494 461000 Police ............................................................. 0845 8505505 Trains ............................................................. 0845 7000125 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 575278 Police ............................................................. 01189 536000 Henley Town Council .................................... 01491 576982 HOSPITALS St Markâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital .......................................... 01628 632012 Wycombe ...................................................... 01494 526161 NHS Direct .......................................................... 0845 4647 Henley (Townlands) Community Hospital .... 01491 637 400

We do our best to keep these numbers up to date, but if they have changed please let us know and we will happily update them. If you would like your number added please contact us: office@AlongtheThames.co.uk

74 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

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