Living Along The Thames September/October 2014 by Living Along theThames

September - October 2014 £1.50 where sold

• Marlow • Maidenhead • Henley • Cookham • Bourne End

www.AlongTheThames.co.uk

Tom Kerridge

ON PRODUCE LED COOKING & WHY EVERY DISH NEEDS LOVE!

Isobelle Molloy A TALENTED LOCAL YOUNG ACTRESS WHO RECENTLY STARRED AS THE YOUNG MALEFICENT.

The Autumn Edit: LATEST FASHIONS

Beauty for the Older woman and how to get those Smoky eyes.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: October FEATURING FABULOUS PRODUCTS IN SUPPORT

• Fashion • Beauty • Home & Garden • Food • Travel Lifestyle 2014 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES •| SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

‘Top 10 Romantic Hotel Rooms in the World’ THE SUNDAY TIMES

CREATING MEMORIES... Your Wedding Day at Stoke Park WEDDING OPEN DAY Sunday 28th September 2014 Entry from 10.30am - 3pm No entry fee and no need to book Intimate event with prestigious exhibitors including photographers, bridal wear, florists, suit hire & wedding cakes All visitors will be entered into a prize draw for the chance to win a Dinner, Bed & Breakfast stay at Stoke Park

Please contact our Wedding Co-ordinator on 01753 717171 or weddings@stokepark.com Stoke Park, Park Road, Stoke Poges, Buckinghamshire SL2 4PG 35 minutes from London and 7 miles from Heathrow Airport

www.stokepark.com

September - October 2014

p24 £1.50 where sold

• Marlow • Maidenhead • Henley • Cookham • Bourne End

www.AlongTheThames.co.uk

Tom Kerridge

ON PRODUCE LED COOKING & WHY EVERY DISH NEEDS LOVE!

Isobelle Molloy A TALENTED LOCAL YOUNG ACTRESS WHO RECENTLY STARRED AS THE YOUNG MALEFICENT.

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, Jill Coleby, 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

The Autumn Edit: LATEST FASHIONS

Beauty for the Older woman and how to get those Smoky eyes.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: October FEATURING FABULOUS PRODUCTS IN SUPPORT

This month’s Front Cover: Tom Kerridge Photography © Christian Barnett

• Fashion • Beauty • Home & Garden • Food • Travel Lifestyle 2014 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES •| SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

welcome

to our latest edition

A warm welcome to the September/October edition. It seems like only yesterday that we were enjoying the warmth of the Summer Sun, but as you receive this copy the nights are turning cooler and the days shorter as we head towards Autumn. In this edition we feature Autumn fashion and the latest trends, along with how to get the Smoky eye look and some lovely products to use to achieve this. We are also looking at Beauty for the older woman, with some great tips from Gary Cockerill, celebrity make-up artist. We were lucky to catch up with local girl Isobelle Molloy in the Summer holidays, who played young Maleficent in the Disney film of the same name. Like all thirteen year olds she was enjoying catching up with friends and family, but also going for several auditions as she is very dedicated and passionate about her acting. We also have interviews from Local Chef, Tom Kerridge and with the Great British Bake-off in full swing, we couldn’t resist finding out about how much Sue Perkins loves baking. We have all our usual features and don’t forget to enter for your chance to win one of our many give-aways scattered throughout the magazine. You also have the chance to win a Spa Day for two at Whittlebury Hall, see page 27 for details on how to enter. 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. 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 | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 3

p28 p22

Inside

10. Homes from Homes: An insight into Interior Designers bloggers homes. 16. British Food Fortnight Phil Howard, Michelin Star ‘Great British Menu’ judge producing gastronomic food for Berkshire Schools 24. Tom Kerridge On produce led cooking and why every dish needs liberal lashings of love 34. Isobelle Molloy Local Actress who recently appeared as young Maleficent in the Disney film of the same name. 43. Unsung Heroes of Wartime Hospitals 50. Breast Cancer Awareness Month: October Some lovely products to purchase to support this wonderful cause. 50. Out & About A comprehensive guide to what is on locally over the next two and half months.

p30

p35

September - October 2014 £1.50 where sold

• Marlow • Maidenhead • Henley • Cookham • Bourne End

www.AlongTheThames.co.uk

Tom Kerridge

ON PRODUCE LED COOKING & WHY EVERY DISH NEEDS LOVE!

Isobelle Molloy

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

4 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

A TALENTED LOCAL YOUNG ACTRESS WHO RECENTLY STARRED AS THE YOUNG MALEFICENT.

The Autumn Edit: LATEST FASHIONS

Beauty for the Older woman and how to get those Smoky eyes.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: October FEATURING FABULOUS PRODUCTS IN SUPPORT

• Fashion • Beauty • Home & Garden • Food • Travel Lifestyle 2014 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES •| SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

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.

Advertising Feature

MAKE YOUR HOUSE INTO A HOME Ashford Kitchens Offer a complete, hassle-free design and installation service for kitchens, bedrooms and home ofﬁces

or the past thirty years, Ashford Kitchens & Interiors has helped transform houses into homes. Offering a complete design, supply and fully project-managed installation service for kitchens, bedrooms and home ofﬁces, customers travel from far and wide for the expert advice provided by the familyrun, KBSA-registered business. Excelling in the variety of goods it has for sale, the company boasts a vast range of specialist worktops, expert knowledge and excellent prices on brand leading appliances, ﬂooring, tiles, lighting and high quality cabinetry from leading British based manufacturers – all of which can be viewed at one of the company’s modern,

inspiring, spacious showrooms in Ashford, Middlesex and their newest, Farnham Common, Bucks. Ashford Kitchens and Interiors recognise that refurbishing a kitchen, bedroom or home office is a major financial commitment, and can be a stressful experience. As such, the company is proud to offer a hasslefree, individual service which exceeds expectations, meeting needs in terms of design, budget and timeliness. For those looking to take advantage of the installation service, customers can rest assured that Ashford Kitchen and Interior’s installation teams are all fully-qualified, and will issue all of the required gas safe and part-p electrical certification. Ashford Kitchens and Interiors

offers a free, no-obligation, kitchen, bedroom or home ofﬁce and planning service with computer aided design software to help client’s visualise their renovation project. ‘Not many kitchen companies take on full project management’ says company director, Stephen Flower, ‘but this is something we pride ourselves on.’ Ashford Kitchens & Interiors is at 1-2 The Parade, The Broadway, Farnham Common and 85, Church Road, Ashford, Middlesex. info@ashfordinteriors.co.uk www.ashfordinteriors.co.uk 01753 642362 or 01784 245964

Showrooms: 1 - 2 The Parade, The Broadway, Farnham Common | 01753 642362 85, Church Road, Ashford, Middlesex | 01784 245964 Since 1984

www.ashfordinteriors.co.uk

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 5

THE HEAT IS ON

It’s no secret that old boilers burn money; in fact, a boiler of 15 years old or more may only be 60% efficient, wasting as much as 40p of every pound you spend on heating and hot water. Replacing it with an A-rated condensing boiler could make your heating system 90% efficient - that’s quite a jump. But while this upgrade can clearly make such a difference to how well your home’s heating (and hot water system) works, it isn’t a cheap option. So if you don’t have the spare funds, how else can you get more from your radiators? If the radiators aren’t as powerful as you’d like, the first thing to do is bleed them. Radiators containing trapped air are hot at the bottom but cold further up, so they’re not giving off as much heat as they could. Bleeding them is easy - simply put a radiator key or small screwdriver (depending on the type of hole) into the bleed valve on the radiator and open the valve to let out

the air. This basic measure will really improve how hot the radiator gets. Another reason a radiator might be inadequate is if it’s not powerful enough for the room, or you need more than one. Radiator output is measured in btu’s (British thermal units) and to work out the btu’s required to heat a room, ask a plumber or use an online btu calculator. Calculators vary, but they should factor in the dimensions of the room, the type of room (living rooms should be warmer than bedrooms, for example) and things like the number of outside walls and the type of glazing. Some btu calculators take into account more factors than others, so you may get different results, or they may give a range of btu’s for the room, rather than one figure. The position of the radiators can also affect how well they work. You don’t, for example, want a radiator heating the back of a sofa, rather than the room. If you can’t move the sofa, perhaps due to space constraints, it’s a good idea to move the radiator or swap a horizontal

6 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

radiator for a vertical one, which will take up less space at sofa level. Replacing old radiators may be something you want to do anyway. Modern radiators tend to be smaller but with the same, or a greater, output than your old ones, thanks to improved radiator technology and materials. Old heating systems often lack adequate controls, such as adjustable radiator valves, so you can’t turn down the radiators in rooms where you don’t need them on full power, or on at all. You’ll need the right controls for the boiler too, as the wrong ones can considerably diminish its performance and efficiency. And with a new boiler especially, that’s the last thing you need. Julia Gray

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 7

For all your cleaning needs choose

Visit our website w

DOMESTIC

CLEANING

CARPET

CLEANING

.ho

LATEST OFFERS! meis.c

OVEN

CLEANING

Domestic, Carpet & Oven Cleaning Services Contact us today on 0845 226 1293 / 0345 226 1293 or email info@homeis.co.uk Scan here to find out more and request a quick quote!

Peace of Mind Home is staff are fully trained and qualified so you can rest assure the cleaners in your home are discrete, trustworthy and reliable.

8 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

www.homeis.co.uk

Is this the end for the high street estate agent? When selling or renting a property many of us have dreamt about doing it ourselves and avoiding the HUGE fees and in some cases dodgy service! I for one have longed for something more transparent, convenient and most definitely cheaper, and I feel like I’ve found just the solution! Online estate agents offer a new way for people to sell and rent their home online and over the last few years many have launched that offer varying degrees of support and advice for sellers. One thing many people are often wary of with online estate agents is the lack of human interaction. Selling your own home is a scary prospect and doing it completely by yourself may be a step too far for a lot of us. The main players in this new space are Purplebricks, Hatched and eMoov – however they all offer different services and levels of support so before you go ahead make sure you do your research and look at what is and isn’t included and find the best fit for you. For example, Purplebricks has a unique online system that no other agent offers which allows you to have direct contact with potential buyers and to gather real time feedback and to

ips T p

keep a track of offers and viewings, this combined with their Local Property Experts who are really knowledgeable about the areas they work in is for me a great combination. eMoov offers three different price packages, and the one you chose will determine whether you get a small team on hand to offer advice, or a personal Account Executive to support you through the process. Whilst Hatched will ensure sellers are looked after by a Consultant, there’s no ‘hand holding’ through the process, which may be perfect for more experienced sellers. One of the biggest frustrations for any one selling a property is the tense wait out of office hours or over the weekend to find out if offers have been made and feedback from viewings. For me, any system that allows you to understand 24/7 what is happening with your property sale is well overdue! In addition to this, not only do these new online agents operate 24 hours a day, but they also charge a set fee for their services, although make sure when you do your research you understand what is and isn’t include din your package. From my research Purplebricks is the only one that offers everything for one fee with no adds ons or extra

charges for things like for sale boards. Over 90% of people search for properties through the big portals like Zoopla and Rightmove, not the estate agents own websites. So whether you go for an online agent, high street agent or something in between make sure your listing includes these property portals as without exposure on these you will be limiting the visibility of your property significantly. With the growing popularity of DIY house selling, it feels like the whole property market is about to change, putting buyers and sellers back in the driving seat, rather than your stereotypical pinstriped high street estate agent. However you choose to sell your property, knowing exactly what you’re getting from your agent is vital. Ask questions, make sure you know exactly what you are paying for and don’t be fobbed off! The great thing is that there are now options out there for home owners and the best advice I can give is for individuals to explore these options and pick the one that best fits your needs, you no longer need to just go with the obvious. Sarah Willingham, Consumer Champion

If you're getting quotations for a home-improvement job, make sure they are like for like. Many loft-conversion companies, for example, will give you a price for their standard package, which includes a certain number of windows, lights and sockets, etc, while some will ask you what you want and provide a more bespoke quotation. With any quotation, getting a written breakdown

of what is and isn't included will avoid miscommunication - and possible disputes - later. If you change what you want as the job progresses, check if this will have any cost implications. Communication, as so often is key!! The planning rules for conservatories are the same as for any other extension. See www.planningportal.gov.uk where there is a conservatories mini-guide.

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 9

Homes from Home! You’re truly pure of heart if you’ve never wanted to snoop around other people’s homes, lingered on the street to peep into a lighted room, or viewed a house, with no intention of buying - just to satisfy your curiosity about what it’s like inside. Go on, admit it, you’re into property porn. Thankfully, the easiest, guilt-free way to deal with a decor addiction is to browse online home design blogs, which can open the doors to homes throughout the world, as well as being inspiring, entertaining, and informative. “Online, there are no limitations, no boundaries, you don’t need a passport, a visa or a plane ticket, just sit back and log on - a whole world of inspiring interiors awaits your arrival,” says Ellie Tennant, who’s travelled the world visiting 15 design bloggers and their homes for her book, Design Bloggers At Home. “The world of interiors and design blogging is a close-knit, friendly community of passionate enthusiasts, who love sharing what they love and can give you an undiluted dose of style, as well as an intriguing glimpse into their lives and what makes them tick. Frankly, what’s not to like?” Two of my favourites are designer Abigail Ahern’s, which highlights trends and tricks of the trade and features shots of her rich, dramatic decor, and Apartment Therapy, which is informative and illustrated with stunning photographs. Beginners - be warned, just like dipping into a box of chocolates and finding you’ve scoffed the lot, you can find that blogs are a major distraction and you can’t get enough of all those yummy rooms. While it’s fun to check out bloggers who have a similar taste to your own, it can be inspiring looking at the online scrapbooks of others who follow their own stylish path. Try these for starters... SCANDI ROCKS THE BLOG: myscandinavianhome. blogspot.co.uk Inspiring images of light-filled, uncluttered rooms in beautifully styled homes fill the blog of Niki Brantmark, an English marketing manager and mother-of-three living in Malmo, Sweden. A fresh and simple take on Scandi style is offered in a delightfully presented blog, and she gives her followers an opportunity to admire converted barns, beachside villas, and to explore trendy getaways and fabulous architecture. “I’m in a corporate world most of the time, so my blog provides escapism into a dreamland full of things I’m passionate about,” she says. HER HOME: Spacious and sociable open-plan living areas have

been cleverly zoned using lighting and furniture, ample storage ensures it’s calm and uncluttered, and it’s living proof that you can have a child-friendly home without sacrificing on style. “Originally, our house had green ceilings and red skirting boards,” shudders Niki, as she recalls the home they moved into five years ago. “It was horrific but the windows were massive and we loved the location, so we just painted everything white to give it an airy Scandinavian look.” The living area features vintage teak furniture, monochrome accessories and a hide rug. “I love textures so I throw sheepskins over chairs, put rugs on the floor and scatter cushions, pillows and blankets everywhere. I hate the immaculate look - well, to be honest, I just can’t do it!” FRENCH CHIC THE BLOG: blog.bodieandfou.com Karine Candice Kong, a French expat living in London, owns stylish online boutique Bodie And Fou. On the award-winning blog, she shares her life, pictures of her home (here and in France) and creative inspirations. Most usefully, she also opens up her little black book of places to shop and visit. “I started the blog originally to promote the shop, but it quickly became about much more than just my business,” says Karine. “It’s almost like a diary to me. It’s very personal, and is a way for me to share my passion for interior decoration online with other enthusiasts, and a creative virtual space where I can explore ideas and designs. “As well as sharing photos of my home and design finds, I post about simplifying my home life, my yoga challenges, my family and my health.” HER HOME: A spacious fourbedroom Victorian house which she shares with her husband and daughter Mila. It is predominantly decorated in neutrals, with warm, natural materials such as leather, marble and wood preventing the rooms from feeling too stark or cold. “I always find beauty in natural objects. I pick up bits of wood at the beach and bring them home to display them. I like shells too. My look is pared back and edited so each room has a story behind it,” she says. “I’ve always wanted to create a home that has a laid-back holiday feel, so colours like turquoise feature,

10 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

COMPLETE INSTALLATION SERVICE AVAILABLE

KITCHENS • BATHROOMS • BEDROOMS

At European Bathrooms we not only supply and fit sophisticated high quality Bathrooms, we also have an exciting range of Kitchens and Bedrooms. Why not pop into our showroom for some inspiration or call us to arrange your free design visit.

t: 01753 865 050 e: info@ebltd.co.uk www.europeanbathrooms.com www.europeankitchens.co.uk 31 King Edward Court, Goswell Road, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 1TG LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 11

to remind me of blue skies and seas. I don’t think you need much stuff, just simple furniture. We have made a bed base out of wooden pallets, and have a crate as a bedside table.”

but the upside of blogging is that it’s made me feel much more connected to the rest of the country and the whole world,” says Rebecca. “I’m part of an online design community, which keeps me in the loop, despite my location.” CORNISH CHARM HER HOME: Two 18th century cottages THE BLOG: futurusticblog.com minutes from the coast which she and Design writer Rebecca Proctor marries her partner, illustrator Andrew, have her love of cutting-edge design with lovingly renovated. “When we moved her penchant for a more traditional, in, they were divided into lots of small, rustic approach to home-making. It’s cramped rooms but we’ve knocked down presented in a refreshingly clear style walls, made them into one, and now the that makes it easy to browse and is house is flooded with light,” she says. interspersed with stunning art, photos Flagstone flooring, exposed brickwork and homes she loves, as well as her own and inglenook fireplaces have all been in Cornwall and her two small children. retained, but wood burning stoves and a “Living in a remote, rural area can new kitchen have been incorporated to mean sometimes I feel a little isolated, bring the home into the 21st century. “I love recycling and would rather make things for our home Childcare at its best... than buy them. I’ve used pages The Marlow Day Nursery from old books is the result of our and magazines for wallpaper commitment to provide in some rooms, the highest standards in and sourced childcare and education. replica Bakelite light switches We provide parents with a to enhance a vintage uniquely individual approach atmosphere.”

The Marlow Day Nursery

based on investing in highly experienced and qualiﬁed staff who combine to create a family atmosphere.

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

Tel: 01628 488114 www.marlowdaynursery.co.uk The Marlow Day Nursery,Sandygate Road, Marlow,SL7 3AZ

12 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

DESIGN COCKTAIL THE BLOG: sfgirlbybay.com There’s a chilled, West Coast feel to Victoria Smith’s blog, featuring images of envyinducing white sand beaches and must-see places in San Francisco. Unusually, the former art

buyer and print producer is a full-time blogger and so lavishes an enormous amount of care and attention to her site and posts - and it shows. “If I go to a gallery or out shopping with a friend, I’m always thinking, ‘This could be a good blog post’,” she says with a smile. “I constantly scour websites for new ideas and my look changes all the time. Right now, I’m into white and wood and I like shapes and textures more than colours.” HER HOME: A modest one-bedroom flat transformed by a collection of flea market finds, blended with cuttingedge contemporary designs, into a comfortable but ultra stylish interior. She sums up her style as “a mishmash of old and new” and sources bargains online and at markets. The walls are painted white and she’s restored the wooden flooring. This plain backdrop allows individual pieces to star, from a Fifties sideboard bought for a few pounds in a garage sale, to a Sixties teak coffee table, as well as new high street buys. While it’s filled with interesting objects, it feels tidy and organised. She keeps a sense of continuity and harmony by grouping objects, like books, by colour - and using every corner for storage. “I love listening to records on a vintage record player and doing some good old fashioned crafting. I made my dining chair seat cushions from an old 1950s curtain panel. There are so many ways to reuse things, and they all add character to a home.” Gabrielle Fagan, Design Bloggers at Home by Ellie Tennant, published by Ryland Peters & Small, £19.99, is available to readers for £13.99 (inc p&p). Call Macmillan Direct on 01256 302 699 quoting reference GLR 9NF.

Stagecoach Henley, High Wycombe & Marlow are now enrolling for the Autumn term! Early Stages 4-6 & 6-7 years

These 90 minute high energy classes are sit equally into singing, dance and drama. These classes are small, which allow us to develop talent in youngsters, while supporting those who might need an extra boost of confidence!

Main Stages 7-18 years

Students are split into three age groups and receive tuition from our industry professionals. Our classes are not only fun but challenging encouraging every child to reach their full potential.

Further Stages 15-21 years

Our Further Stages company allows students to join an advanced class to develop their skills in singing, dance and drama. This course is for those looking to pursue a career in the arts. We perform at a variety of venues locally and in London including London’s Soho Theatre, The Tabard and Her Majesty’s Theatre.

NEW CLASSES OPENING IN JANUARY After 17 years Stagecoach Henley, High Wycombe & Marlow still remain the market leader oﬀering high quality training in all aspects of theatre performing, developing skills while having fun!

COMING SOON! ALICE IN WONDERLAND Auditions 7 - 18 yrs CHRISTMAS FESTIVE FUN Mon 22nd & Tues 23rd December 2014 SUMMER WORKSHOPS 3rd - 7th August 2015

Principal Clare Gosling adds, “I am constantly amazed how the dramatic arts can develop young kids into well rounded, outgoing and confident performers and create such positive change in students every day. We also oﬀer LAMDA tuition, private singing lessons and have our own performance troupes.”

OPEN DAYS

Marlow 19th September 2014 Henley 6th December 2014

BOOK YOUR FREE PLACE NOW! Suitable for ages 4 - 16 years

Come along to our open day and experience the exciting mix of Dance, Drama and Singing for yourself! Your child will meet new friends, learn how to warm up their bodies and work with industry professionals to develop their Dance, Drama and Singing skills.

High Wycombe, Henley & Marlow: 01494 533 203 highwycombe@stagecoach.co.uk

www.stagecoach.co.uk henley@stagecoach.co.uk

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 13

Tips for starting secondary school tarting secondary school is a big step. There are many things you can do to help your child, but being confident, positive and reassuring is a good start. • Go through all documentation, such as Parent Handbooks, supplied by the school. Familiarise yourself with the structures and procedures. They may be very different to those of smaller junior schools. • Be confident and supportive. This is especially important on the first day but is also essential for several weeks. Don’t allow your support to become overbearing though – your child must take this step herself. • If a different journey to school is required, try it out in advance. If your child is travelling on her own, make sure she knows your contact details as well as the school’s and what to do if she’s delayed. • Make sure your child knows where to go on the first day, who her tutor is and that it’s okay

to ask for help or advice. • Encourage your daughter to be friendly and to try different activities and pursue her interests right from the start. Do take advice from the form tutors though – attending too many clubs will be exhausting. • Get organised: display copies of lesson and homework timetables in your child’s room as well as somewhere you can both check them. He or she e can then make a list of which books, PE kit they need for the following day. This will stop them carrying a bag that’s heavier than they are! • Keep some continuity at home with favourite meals, links with old friends and hobbies. • Don’t expect your child to tell you everything immediately at the end of the first day. You’re more likely to get a balanced view by letting them tell you in their own good time. • Resist the temptation to text! If there is a problem the school will help your child deal with it.

14 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

• Read school correspondence and make the effort to keep up to date, especially if your child is a little vague about what is going on! • Remember that change can be emotionally draining. Your child is likely to become increasingly tired as the first half term progresses and her resilience may falter. Make sure she gets the opportunity to have a proper rest at weekends holidays. • Secondary schools provide fewer opportunities for direct parental involvement. Take advantage of those that do exist. The more you understand and are aware of the school’s ethos and approach, the better placed you are to support your child. • Have realistic expectations – it will be neither perfect nor dreadful – and remember why you chose the school. Make sure your child is determined to make the best of all its opportunities. Advice from head teachers in the Girls’ Schools Association

Godstowe Preparatory School Come and find out what all the fuss is about Open Day: Saturday 11th October 2014, 10am - 1pm

NURSERY 3-4 PRE-PREP 4-7 PREP 7-13 BOARDING 7-13 BOYS & GIRLS 3-7 GIRLS 7-13

“Little Godstowe” is a termly nursery based in the grounds of Godstowe Preparatory School. For boys and girls aged 3 to 4, the nursery offers morning sessions (8.45am to 11.45am) and full days (8.45am to 3.30pm).

are confident, well motivated, very well behaved, “ Children polite and understand what is expected of them. ” – Ofsted Inspection Report

For more information about the nursery, school or our Open Days, please contact the Registrar, Cathy Gainer, by telephoning 01494 429006 or emailing registrar@godstowe.org LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 www.godstowe.org

British Food Fortnight (20 September - 5 October 2014), organised by Love British Food, is a national food promotion now in its 13th year, which brings communities together to celebrate the best of British food and British food traditions. It also aims to reinvigorate the tradition of celebrating the harvest, with a competition to find the best community-organised harvest event, as well as a National Harvest Service for children and a fun social media campaign #HarvestFever Phil Howard, two Michelin Star 'Great British Menu' judge producing gastronomic school food range for Berkshire schools in autumn celebration of British food High profile chef Phil Howard, the two Michelin Star owner and proprietor of The Square restaurant in Mayfair, is teaming with school catering firm Cucina Restaurants (www. cucina.co.uk/media ) to produce a special 'British Classics' school food range for British Food Fortnight, the celebration of British food organised annually by Love British Food. The new menu, to be prepared and offered at Charters School, Edgbarrow Secondary School, Sandhurst School and St Crispin's School during the special fortnight which runs from 20 September to 5 October 2014, will lend Phil's trademark flair and inventiveness to some classic British dishes. Not only will students and teachers be able to buy these dishes at standard school food prices, they will also be offered the opportunity to try out extended versions at home, with specially prepared menu cards. Explaining this venture with Cucina and Love British Food, Phil Howard said: "In the world of school cooking Cucina stands out as the beacon of hope. A walk into one of their kitchens will reveal all - local produce, an abundance of fresh vegetables, vibrant cooking and plenty of evidence that kids will queue up to get their hungry hands on it all." Alexia Robinson, organiser of British Food Fortnight, said:

"Cucina's collaboration with Phil Howard shows that good food doesn't have to cost huge amounts of time or money. Phil's £1 school meal recipes are also adapted for use in the home and we encourage everyone to try them in order to find out how delicious and

"Cucina, the first UK catering company to put trained chefs into school kitchens, now operates restaurants at 47 British state secondary schools and academies, with Head Chefs preparing a wide range of fresh Food choices daily.” wholesome school meals can be." Commenting on the work of British Food Fortnight, Phil Howard said: "The future of British food lies with our children - and to help play a part by devising a menu to champion British food and produce, and the promotion of it during British Food Fortnight, seemed like a very sound place to start." Cucina's Managing Director Steve Quinn said: "This collaboration with Phil is an opportunity to showcase just what can be possible with school food, with a little imagination and the right priorities in place. We're not only highlighting the best of British food; with Phil's help, we are aiming to bring a new

Hundreds of activities are taking place across the country during British Food Fortnight. The event is the biggest showcase of food on the national calendar and celebrates its twelfth year with more activities than ever before for people to get involved, with a particular emphasis on schools, communities and young people. This year the campaign theme is again “Bring Home the Harvest” and we are encouraging everyone to get involved. Celebrations taking place across the country will include promotions, tastings and 16 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

level of awareness to British food." Phil is working with Cucina's team of Head Chefs to produce two versions of each of the ten British Classic dishes, one within the budgetary constraints of school catering and the second a fuller, restaurant style version, with recipes cards for parents, students and teachers to try the dishes at home. The British Classics range will include such dishes as Pea and Bacon Soup with a Sausage Roll and Rarebit; Shepherd's Baked Potato with Rosemary Melted Onions; Cauliflower, Ham and Cheese Fritters with an Apple and Onion Dip; and Orange Beignets with Lemon Posset. special menus in pubs, restaurants and shops, special events in care homes for the elderly, scrumptious servings of British food in garden centre cafes, patriotic menus in hospitals, family feasts in children's centres and lots of fun food and drink festivals and country fairs. The organisers of British Food Fortnight and the Love British Food campaign want to hear from you! Let us know what you are organising. To have your event, shop, pub, restaurant or community listed on the website and included in press information

fresh or free range Cotswold or Copas Turkey’s Geese, Capon, Beef, Pork, Chipolata’s Cooked Ham, Gammon and more

Longhurst’s Your local Family Butcher where Quality & Customer Care come first

From your local Country Store in Cookham and Cox Green or Budgens, Maidenhead On-Line at www.longhurstsofmarlow.co.uk Visit us in store or call for more details call

01628 488 373

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

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 17

Cocktail Hour

Apple and Rhubarb Tanqueray Punch INGREDIENTS: 35ml Tanqueray London Dry Gin 50ml Cawston Vale Rhubarb and Apple Presse 10ml Elderflower Cordial Dot of Rhubarb Bitters Dash of Fresh Lemon Juice

METHOD: Shake all the ingredients together and strain into an old fashioned tumbler filled with ice, garnish with a twist of fresh rhubarb. (Units - 1.6)

Hogarths Horror INGREDIENTS: 25mls Tanqueray Gin 25mls Pale Ale 25mls Sauvignon Blanc 25mls Elderflower Cordial

METHOD:

Shake all ingredients with ice and strain over cubed ice in a rocks glass and garnish. (1.5 Units) Garnish with a grapefruit wedge

Please drink responsibly:www.drinkaware.co.uk

WHAT’S ON AT CROWNE PLAZA MARLOW EXCLUSIVE MENU TASTING

7pm, Thursday, 18th September

One for the foodies. Enjoy 5 sumptuous courses, starting with canapés, all served with matching wines. It’s a fantastic opportunity to delight in delicious food teamed with knowledgeably chosen wines.

£55.00 per person, including matching wines

KIDS’ SPOOKY MINI DISCO

4-7pm, Friday, 24th October

Dare to come to our Hallowe’en Disco. Prize for spookiest fancy dress costume. With Dave the Disco, face painters and bouncy castles.

£15.00 per person, including dinner box

CHARITY FASHION SHOW

7pm Thursday, 25th September

The perfect ladies’ night out - food and fashion under one roof! A stunning catwalk, showcasing the latest trends from Marlow High Street. Raising money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

£25.00 per person, with glass of wine, canapés and buffet

BONFIRE NIGHT CELEBRATION 6.30pm, Saturday, 1st November

Celebrate Bonfire Night in the stunning surroundings of Crowne Plaza Marlow, with fireworks over the lake, music and entertainment.

£10.00 per adult, £5.00 per child; £25.00 per family ticket.*

Advanced booking required. *Ts & Cs apply. Call 01628 496 860 or email enquiries@cpmarlow.co.uk W: CPMARLOW.CO.UK Crowne Plaza Marlow, Fieldhouse Lane, Marlow, Buckinghamshire, SL7 1GJ. 18 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

M ACDONA LD

W I N DSOR HO T EL

LOOK OUT FOR OUR AMAZING EVENTS OVER THE FESTIVE SEASON!

FESTIVE BASH

£55

.00

FROM

LIVE IT UP

£25

.00

PER PERSON

PICK YOUR OWN PRIVATE DINING

£25

.00

FROM

£80.00

FROM

PER PERSON

Simple light hearted affair. Tuesday – Saturday Lunch SET MENU

CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH

PER PERSON

BOXING DAY JAZZ LUNCH

£35.00

PER PERSON

NEW YEARS EVE WINTER WONDERLAND

£100.00

FROM

PER PERSON

LIMITED PARTY NIGHT PLACES LEFT! Book now on 0844 879 9101 or email events.windsor@macdonald-hotels.co.uk HIGH STREET, WINDSOR, BERKSHIRE, SL4 1LH

WWW.MACDONALDHOTELS.CO.UK/WINDSOR LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 19

Ristorante Italiano

Tel: 0 16 2 8 6 3 6 13 7

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

Booking now for

Christmas 3 Courses for £25

Glass of Prosecco on arrival T&C’s apply

NEW: Italian Catering services Buffets for all your party needs from £5.50 per head.

For more details contact 07973 226214, info@italian-catering.co.uk or visit our website www.italian-catering.co.uk Opening hours:

Like us and join us on Facebook www.facebook.com/bianconero2013

Mon - Thurs: 12 - 14:30 & 18:00 - 22:00,

@bianconero2013

Sat: 18:00 - 22:30 and Sun: 11:00 - 15:00

Fri: 12 - 14:30 & 18:00 - 22:30,

Find us at: Glynwood House, Bridge Avenue, Maidenhead SL6 1RS

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

20 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

Christmas Christmasisisaamagical magicaltime timeof ofyear; year;aatime timefor forfriends friendsand andfamily family––for forfun funand andlaughter laughter and andfor forgood goodfood foodand andwine. wine. Join Joinus usthis thisyear yearand andexperience experiencethe themagic magicof ofChristmas Christmasfor foryourself. yourself.Blazing Blazingfires, fires, Fredrick’s Fredrick’sfestive festivepunch punchand andthe thesmell smellof ofhome-made home-mademince mincepies piesto tofill fillyou youwith with Christmas Christmascheer! cheer! Whether Whetherititisisaasmall smallfamily familycelebration, celebration,an anoffice officeparty partyor oraaromantic romanticdinner dinnerfor fortwo, two, Fredrick’s Fredrick’sHotel, Hotel,Restaurant Restaurantand andSpa Spaoffers offersthe thecomplete completechoice. choice. With Withfestive festivelunch lunchand anddinners dinnersininthe theaward award––winning winningFredrick’s Fredrick’sRestaurant, Restaurant,Champagne Champagne Afternoon AfternoonTea Teaininthe theWinter WinterGarden Gardenor orfun fun––packed packedparty partynights nightsininthe theWindsor WindsorSuite, Suite, there thereisissomething somethingfor foreveryone. everyone. And Andthis thisyear, year,we weare areopen opento tonon-residents non-residentson onChristmas ChristmasDay! Day! Relax Relaxininthe thespa, spa,enjoy enjoyaatreatment treatmentand andstay stayovernight overnightininone oneof ofthe thehotel’s hotel’sluxurious luxurious bedrooms bedroomsor orsimply simplyenjoy enjoyaaglass glassof ofFredrick’s Fredrick’sfestive festivepunch punchininfront frontof ofaaroaring roaringfire fireinin the thehotel hotelbar bar––let letus ushelp helpyou youmake makeyour yourChristmas Christmasspecial specialthis thisyear. year.

Festive Festivelunches lunchesfrom from£19.00 £19.00per perperson personfor fortwo twocourses courses and andfestive festivedinners dinnersfrom from£22.00 £22.00per perperson personfor fortwo twocourses courses Festive FestiveAfternoon AfternoonTea Teafrom from£17.00 £17.00per perperson person Private Privatedining diningfrom from£22.00 £22.00per perperson person(lunchtime) (lunchtime) and and£29.00 £29.00per perperson person(dinners) (dinners) Party Partynights nightsfrom from£39.00 £39.00per perperson person Christmas Christmasday daylunch lunch£59.00 £59.00per perperson. person.

Please Pleasesee seethe thewebsite websitefor forfurther furtherdetails detailsor orcall callour ourEvents Eventsoffice officeon on01628 01628581000 581000 E-mail E-mailreservations@fredricks-hotel.co.uk reservations@fredricks-hotel.co.uk www. www.Fredricks-hotel.co.uk Fredricks-hotel.co.uk Fredrick’s Fredrick’sHotel HotelRestaurant RestaurantSpa, Spa,Shoppenhangers ShoppenhangersRoad, Road,Maidenhead, Maidenhead,Berkshire BerkshireSL6 SL62PZ 2PZ LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 21

Perkins Loaf Affair with Baking fter four years presenting The Great British Bake Off, Sue Perkins has picked up some pretty decent kitchen skills. So much so that notoriously hardto-impress judge Paul Hollywood - who knows a good crumb from a soggy bottom - has termed her “a really good baker”. “I wouldn’t say I was any good at it, but it’s very sweet of Paul to say I’m ok,” says the bespectacled comedian, who returns with co-host Mel Giedroyc for series five this month. “I’m not much of a cake-maker, because I don’t have kids, and because I think if you make a cake then you eat it,” she adds, revealing that the weight can “pack on” during Bake Off. “I do love making bread though, I think it’s an amazing thing to get into. It’s a stress-reliever, it’s fun and I just absolutely love it.” Perkins isn’t the only one to have been bitten by the baking bug. The show, which first aired in August 2010, has led to a major revival in cake, bun and biscuit-making, and made stars of bread guru Hollywood and food writer Mary

Berry. More than nine million of us tuned in to see Frances Quinn crowned winner of series four, and this year the contest - which is moving from BBC Two to BBC One - will also have a spin-off programme, An Extra Slice, hosted by Jo Brand. London-born Perkins, 44, is modest about the role she and Giedroyc have played in the show’s success (she’s previously described it as “an hour of innuendo presented by middle-aged women”). But when the pressure gets too much in the Bake Off tent, and you could cut the tension with a palette knife, the pair are always on hand to provide welcome light relief and console the contestants. Admittedly, the ice-breaking does usually come in the form of a smutty pun or a wink at a rude-shaped bake... “I’ve sort of cultivated this sort of, ‘Ooh look at me, I’ve got my glasses on, let’s try and pretend that I’m clever’,” says Perkins. “Actually, I’m just a buffoon child wrapped in a 40-something-year-old’s body. Really contrived puns, terrible

22 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

jokes, people falling over, an exquisitely timed fart; these are things that will make me just roar with laughter.” Over the years, Perkins has befriended the home economists who test the technical challenge recipes on Bake Off (“they’re my mates”), and has gleaned plenty of baking tips from them. “I will help them make stuff and if they’re doing demonstrations, I’ll make some of the bread,” she adds. “I had quite a slow day on Bake Off once and we were having Comic Relief winners to come and have tea with us, and I made pretty much the whole tea myself - the scones and muffins and cakes and things. I was quite pleased with that.” It’s just as well Perkins is a so interested in food, as many of her presenting gigs have involved it. She and Giedroyc, who met at Cambridge University’s Footlights performing arts society, rose to TV prominence on the Channel 4 daytime show Light Lunch, in which each episode saw a top chef cook lunch for the duo and some famous guests. Along with stints on Celebrity MasterChef and Celebrity Big Brother,

Perkins also co-presented the The Supersizers Eat... food history shows with acclaimed restaurant critic Giles Coren. “I suppose over the years I’ve kind of learnt by default what goes with what and how you should know when something’s done, and I’m quite lucky, I’ve been cooked for by amazing people,” she admits. As well as the new series of Bake Off, Perkins is also the host of new More4 show Cooks’ Questions, in which three top chefs demonstrate their skills and answer questions from a studio audience of “fervent foodies”. “I think the show shows how many answers there are to one simple question, like how to roast a chicken,” says Perkins. “We had almost war with Tom Aikens saying you need to brine it for 16 days and then hang it upside down and then form a pentangle around it and set light to it then shove an almond up it’s ass, and then you had Richard Corrigan going, ‘No that’s absolute rubbish, just get a hairdryer and turn it on’, and then Frances [Atkins] saying, ‘Oh no, just shove it in the oven at 180. I think you’ll find that turns out pretty well’. “So actually, it showed the many ways you can skin a cat. Although a cat, of course, is not the best meat if you want a roast...” Perkins is a fan of “good solid practical home cookery”; the kind she used to help her mum with growing up. “I do sort of love those big traybakes and great duvets of lasagne, and all those sort of comforting family foods,” she adds. “I think there’s all this razzmatazz around the star chefs. You forget that real women - and men too, but predominantly women - are turning out amazing things every single night of the year.”

EXTRA TIME MEMORABLE BAKE OFF MOMENTS

Poor Rob Billington was all set to present the judges with his tiered chocolate genoise sponge cake in series two - until he dropped it on the floor moments before serving. He still managed to salvage one layer, with a bit of help from Paul Hollywood. Scottish medical student James Morton was gutted when his gingerbread barn fell apart in the third series. But the judges loved the tumbledown look and still gave it a thumbs-up. John Whaite, eventual winner of series three, mistook salt for sugar when rustling up some rum babas. He also managed to cut open his finger on an electric mixer. Howard Middleton served up a tea loaf with a twist last year - it was laced with hemp. Cue hilarity as Sue Perkins tried to explain “naughty cigarettes” to Mary Berry. Last year’s champion Frances Quinn had a disaster when her button-themed biscuit stack collapsed like a Jenga tower. The Great British Bake Off series five begins on BBC One on Wednesday, August 6 Cooks’ Questions airs on More4 on Mondays LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 23

Tom Kerridge on Britain’s Great Grub Tom Kerridge chats about produce led cooking, his biggest culinary achievements and why every dish needs a liberal lashing of love. Local Chef Tom Kerridge has gained himself a name as a West Country traditionalist with a passion for pub grub. “Appearing on The Great British Menu, the thing I was most proud of is that I came across as me,” Kerridge says. “There were no airs and graces, no pretence and I’ve kept up that mantra since.” True to form, the chef cuts a friendly, approachable figure throughout our chat. Kerridge was just 18 when he entered the kitchen as a commis chef at Calcot Manor in Tetbury. Moving to London from Gloucestershire in his early 20s, Kerridge honed his skills at restaurants including Odettes, Rhodes in The Square, Stephen Bull and The Capital. He’s worked with all the big names in the culinary world, and credits “being in the kitchen” as paramount to his education. Today, Kerridge’s recipes, from his lasagne to his pie to his beef brisket (“with a lovely barbeque sauce”), reflect his passion for upmarket comfort food. Kerridge became head chef at Adlards in Norwich and senior sous chef at Monsieur Max in Hampton before opening his own gastro pub, The Hand and Flowers, in 2005, gaining a Michelin star just a year in. Nearly a decade on – and another Michelin star later - Kerridge has become a familiar face on our telly screens. A Saturday Kitchen regular, the chef calls his double Michelin starred gastro pub his “biggest achievement.” The Gloucestershire-raised chef is all about “big, strong and robust” flavours, and calls “love” the key ingredient to any dish. “If it’s created with love then when you eat it you’ll feel the soul that went into it - that’s the thing that makes it comforting.” 24 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

With his food pleasing to the eye without being overly fussy, Kerridge is quick to champion the ‘pub grub’ movement currently taking over the UK, paying lip service to the quintessentially British phenomenon. “There’s about 15 chefs now in pubs with Michelin stars, and that’s a wonderful place to be in,” he says. “It’s a great advert for British food across the world.” Kerridge adds, “There are great pubs doing great food that haven’t got Michelin stars too, and their understanding of food is just fantastic.” Living up to his down-to-earth persona, Kerridge says “I‘m not trying to break down boundaries and look for something new with my dishes: I like to look to the old instead and see if we can improve on it.”“When you look at Great Britain and what it’s built around, whether it’s manufacturing, whether it’s food, whether it’s farming, it’s all solid, rustic, heart and soul and honest,” he explains. “Those are the sort of dishes that I draw inspiration from. I look for tradition and I look for history in food.” As his series Tom Kerridge’s Best Ever Dishes is returning

“The Gloucestershireraised chef is all about “big, strong and robust” flavours, and calls “love” the key ingredient to any dish. “

A new cookery book, Best Ever Dishes, an accompanying BBC Two series, a bustling pub, and a new venture about to open on the same street in Marlow in November – it’s fair to say that Tom is having a bit of a moment right now. But after a massive 40th birthday celebration, which the jolly chef jokes he’s “still suffering from”, just a pint of Diet Coke will do. Giving up alcohol is just one thing that has changed in his life since his first solo cookery series, Proper Pub Food, was aired last year. For starters, he’s lost six stone, partially through the abstinence and partially through swimming. Then there’s the fans he’s gained through his TV series, book and two Michelin-starred pub “I’m quite a people person. I’d say every day, I come across somebody who knows who I am and I have no idea who they are, and that’s quite cool, because I get to find out.” “I’m quite fortunate that I’m one of the chefs that actually likes people,” says the cheerful 41-year-old, who is married to sculptor and Hand And Flowers co-owner Beth, who he says is a “really, really good cook.”

Photography © Christian Barnett

And Tom, whose new book sees him adding twists on classic dishes like tomato soup and rice pudding, is eager to encourage his fans to head to the kitchen and have a go. “It’s amazing, because it means that the book is getting cooked from,” says Tom of the feedback he’s had from readers. “That love will defiantly come across in whatever you cook.”

to our screens – “It’s a continuation of the proper pub food that was such a success last year. I enjoyed working with everyone from the camera men to the director” – Kerridge alerts us to his cardinal kitchen rule.

Equally not precious about his recipes, Tom hopes readers and viewers will focus on flavour rather than agonise over appearance. Tom Kerridge’s Best Ever Dishes is published by Absolute Press, priced £25. Tom Kerridge’s Best Ever Dishes airs on BBC Two later this autumn.

“Never cook something that you wouldn’t want to eat,” he says, sternly. For this chef, total enjoyment is paramount.” “I’ll say this to all of my chefs here and customers alike, if you cook things with love and passion and you care for everything that you’re doing, that will reflect on the flavour,” he says

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 25

C ottage pie w ith blue cheese mash When I was a kid, my mum used to knock up a great cottage pie and her secret ingredient was a little bit of curry powder. Topped off with cheesy mash and served with buttered peas, it’s my ultimate childhood memory. I admit this version is a bit fancier than Mum’s; it has two types of cooked beef to give it extra dimension and texture – long-winded, perhaps, but definitely worth the effort

SERVES 4 - 6 INGREDIENTS: 500g braising steak 50g plain flour Vegetable oil, for cooking 700ml beef stock 300ml dark ale 2 star anise 1 cinnamon stick Cottage pie with blue cheese mash 500g minced beef 2 onions, finely diced 2 carrots, finely diced 2 celery sticks, tough strings removed, finely diced 2 tablespoons Curry powder (see p. 290) or use a good quality bought one Few splashes of Worcestershire sauce Salt and freshly ground black pepper For the mash topping 6 floury potatoes (King Edward or Maris Piper), about 1.2kg, peeled and diced 150ml milk 50g butter ¾ tablespoon prepared English mustard 150g blue cheese (use your favourite), grated 1 teaspoon paprika

METHOD: 1. Preheat the oven to 150°C/Gas Mark 2. Cut the braising steak into 2cm dice, dust in flour and shake off the excess. Warm a large frying pan over a medium–high heat, add a little oil and fry the braising steak until it gets a deep, rich colour all over. Drain the steak on some kitchen paper and transfer to a casserole. 2. Put the frying pan back on the heat and deglaze it with the stock and ale, scraping up any tasty brown bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon, then pour the liquid over the beef in the casserole. Add the star anise and cinnamon stick and bring to the boil. Put the lid on and braise slowly in the oven for 21/2– 3 hours, until the beef is tender. Leave to cool. 3. When cool, remove the cooked steak from the casserole with a slotted spoon and place in a bowl in the fridge 26 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

until needed. Reserve the remaining cooking liquor. 4. Wipe out the casserole, then place it over a medium– high heat and pour in a thin layer of vegetable oil. Add the minced beef and cook, stirring constantly, until it’s thoroughly browned. The beef shouldn’t be grey, you want it to be dry, roasted and crumbly, the colour of the outside of a beef burger; this should take about 10–12 minutes. Drain in a colander to get rid of any fat, and set aside. 5. Return the casserole to the hob, warm a little more oil over a medium heat, and add the diced vegetables. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring from time to time, until they soften. Add the curry powder and stir, making sure the vegetables are thoroughly coated in the spice. 6. Add the drained minced beef and the reserved braising liquid and bring to the boil. Turn the heat down to a simmer and reduce the stock until it’s nice and thick. Add a few splashes of Worcestershire sauce and season. Leave to cool for 20 minutes. 7. When the minced beef has cooled a little, stir in the chilled, braised beef and mix thoroughly, but try not to break up the beef too much. Transfer to a large pie dish or ovenproof serving dish and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour. 8. Bring a large saucepan of salted water to the boil and cook the potatoes for 14–15 minutes or until soft. Drain in a colander and leave to steam and air dry a little. Meanwhile, warm the milk and butter in a small saucepan. Either put the cooked potato through a potato ricer into a bowl or mash thoroughly with a hand masher. Beat in the hot milk and butter with a wooden spoon to form a semifirm mashed potato. Mix in the mustard and season. 9. Take the chilled beef mixture from the fridge and pipe the mash on top, or spread it and make little peaks with a fork. Sprinkle the blue cheese on top and dust with the paprika. At this point, you can store the cottage pie covered in cling film in the fridge for up to 2 days if you like. 10. Preheat the oven to 180°C/Gas Mark 4. Put the cottage pie on to a baking tray, stick it in the oven and cook for 20–25 minutes until the middle is very hot. Remove from the oven and place under a hot grill, if needed, just to glaze the blue cheese. Serve immediately with buttered peas. Extract taken from Tom Kerridge’s Best Ever Dishes. published by Absolute Press, £25.00, Hardback.

WIN A SPA DAY AT WHITTLEBURY HALL HOTEL AND SPA* Experience the ultimate in pampering with friends and family, and unwind at the award-winning four-star Whittlebury Hall Hotel and Spa, as we offer you a chance to win the perfect Spa Day for Two. Enter your details at www.alongthethames.co.uk/competition-entries by 30th September • The Day Spa, one of the largest Spa’s in the country with 23 treatments rooms and some of the latest treatments on offer. In addition, The Leisure Club includes a 19-metre pool, whirlpool and gym with the latest state-of-the-art facilities. SPA DAY FOR TWO* INCLUDES; SS Two course Buffet Lunch SS Full use of Heat and Ice Experiences SS Full use of the Spa and Leisure Club facilities The award-winning The Day Spa incorporates the unique Heat and Ice Experiences, which provides body sensations brought about by dramatic changes in temperature. Facilities include a Sanarium®, a sauna, steam rooms and a Caldarium hot room. Other facilities include an Aromatherapy Crystal Steam Room, an Ice Cave, Roman Salt Steam, Experience Showers, Foot Spas and Hydrotherapy Pool. If you are not lucky enough to be the winner, then why not take advantage of our great value Reader Offer** - Buy either a One Night Spa Stay or Two Night Spa Stay and receive a COMPLIMENTARY 25 minute Soothing Back, Neck and Shoulder Massage (worth over £35)*. Call 0845 400 0002 and quote ‘LIVING14’, visit www.whittleburyhall.co.uk. *Terms and Conditions apply. This prize is non-transferable and non-refundable, and has no cash equivalent. This prize cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion. This prize is available Sunday - Thursday only, subject to availability. Guests must be aged 18 years or over. This competition is not open to the employees of Whittlebury Hall and their family members. Prize to be booked and taken by 30th December 2014. ** Offer includes a complimentary 25 minute Back, Neck and Shoulder Massage per person when purchasing a 1 Night Stay for £93.50 per person or 2 Night Spa Stay for £82.50 per person per night. Heat and Ice Experiences to be taken on day of arrival. £40 single supplement applies. Offer valid for bookings taken up to 30th December 2014. • For Living Along The Thames T&C’s see www.AlongTheThames.co.uk

NEW CAFÉ NOW OPEN We are pleased to announce that our stylish new café, downstairs at the Regal, is open. We look forward to serving you scrumptious, locally sourced handmade cakes, gourmet toasted sandwiches, delectable pastries, cheese and charcuterie platters, barista coffee and our specially selected wines whether or not you are visiting us to see a film.

•

It’s a great new place to relax and enjoy catching up with friends in comfort. Regal & Living Along The Thames are offering one lucky reader the chance to win two cinema tickets plus a hot snack and a drink for themselves and a friend in our new café. Just email your details to www.alongthethames.co.uk/ competition-entries by 10th October• Drop in and sample our great new menu. We hope to welcome you for lunch, afternoon tea or a glass of wine soon.

For Living Along The Thames T&C’s see www.AlongTheThames.co.uk

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 27

Youthful colour for Autumn/Winter Director, Karine Jackson says, “As we head into the autumn, our hair needs lots of TLC. It’s the perfect time to invest in a gorgeous new colour or shake off those beachy waves for something much chicer.” Don’t automatically switch to a wintery shade as soon as September comes; I always like to work with a client’s left over summer colour to create a much more subtle transition, especially if you’re trying to create a youthful, less dramatic change. Although you may want to dive straight into a new colour, it’s important to get your hair looking and feeling healthy. Post summer hair is usually much drier so invest in a great moisturising treatment to get it in optimum condition. As hair starts to change both in colour and texture (usually in our 40s); white ones may be appearing and the hair can become coarser. To keep it soft and manageable incorporate a weekly hair mask into your routine. These treatments are essential at this point, as your hair needs to get back into shape; the change in temperature and the addition of central heating puts a lot of stress on your skin and hair. I think the beauty of hair is there is no age or time frame on it. If you are willing to try a change – go for it. Always keep in mind how a new style/colour will change your lifestyle and the maintenance involved. For example, don’t have a vastly different colour if you can’t spare the time to visit the salon regularly to get your regrowth done. Always ask your colourist to use a colour fan to help assess what tones are going to suit your complexion before you decide on your new shade.

Silver Shampoo once or twice a week. It can also become weaker, so you may need to trim the ends more regularly to prevent them snapping, making the hair look old and unkempt. Serum is good for sealing the ends and giving the hair shine as well. www.karinejackson.co.uk

As we age our skin tone and hair colour naturally lightens, so what suited us in our twenties and thirties won’t work in our forties and beyond. There’s a temptation to colour hair the colour you grew up with, but if this is brown or black the chances are it’ll be way too harsh now. A shade or two lighter than your natural colour will flatter and lift your features, and keeping the colour more translucent looks much better than a flat, block shade. A few highlights can disguise grey beautifully too. If you want to embrace greys, work with your hairdresser to make the growing out period manageable, you can phase out colour without enduring a block line of regrowth. Grey hair can grow through in patches too, so it may be that the back or front of your head is quite a different shade and will need balancing out. Grey, like blonde, is prone to brassiness, so use a 28 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

It’s a busy time at Pizazz in Bourne End Many of the Autumn collections in sought after labels in the latest colours and styles are arriving daily from Lebek, Marble, Viza-Vie and many more. We have suits and dresses suitable for that Special Occasion and for you Ladies that are looking for the all important outfit to wear to lunch such as Michaela Louisa and Georgede. Many of our outfits have sought after sleeves or a matching bolero. We still have many Summer Sale items so if you are looking for outfits to go on holiday with then do drop in and see the selections available. Call in to see us –you will be pleased you did! Many of our Collections are available on our website in our on-line shops www.PizazzOnline.co.uk

didonna

Tel: 01628 477 292

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

At the recent London Fashion Show the following trends were on show: PLAITS OFF-DUTY BALLERINAS Cornrows were whipped The Ballets Russes provided up backstage at Alexander the inspiration at Diane von McQueen, Marchesa and Furstenberg, with hair worn DKNY, whilst knotted plaits in ballerina buns. Off-duty provided an urban edge at dancer hair was also present Givenchy and Simone Rocha. at Prada, Altuzarra and Along with plaited pigtails Erdem, with hair scraped at Marc by Marc Jacobs, back into elegant DIY the braided buns at Dolce chignons. & Gabbana and the woven ponytails at Fendi. For a colour make-over, a new style or for these latest trends contact Ciro, Lyndsay and Wendy at DiDonna on 01628 477292 Wanted: Full / part time experienced stylist for busy Salon Please call Ciro on 01628 477292

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.

27 The Parade, Bourne End Bucks SL8 5SB

tel: 01628 522590 email: enquiries@pizazzshop.co.uk web: www.pizazzonline.co.uk LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 29

THE AUTUMN EDIT

The latest fashion trends for the new Autumn/Winter season Autumn/Winter 2014 is all about the waist. Whether clinched with a statement belt, tied with a shirt or belted with an oversized coat, a waisted silhouette creates a fashionable and feminine look. You can give your outfit a fashionable boost by wearing a statement earring â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a single one, if you dare! The latest trend of neutral blocking has been featured on many winter catwalks for 2014. The beauty of this trend is its ability to emphasise the beautiful textures and quality of the garments. Masculine tailoring was everywhere on the catwalks this season. Mannish flats were worn with fitted suits however rich colour and silky fabrics made even loose and boxy tailoring extremely feminine. Chunky embellishment has had an extreme makeover with large adornments positioned prominently on dresses, jumpers and jackets.

2 1

7 9

1. Tan Jacket & Heart Motif top: Lebak Available www.PizazzOnline.co.uk 2. Sleeved dress: Michaela Louisa Available www.PizazzOnline.co.uk 3. Fur Jacket: Mira Mia. Available www.SwishBoutique.co.uk 4. Animal Print Jacket: Frank Lyman. Available www.SwishBoutique.co.uk 5. Black quilted jacket & red motif t-shirt: Lebak Available www.PizazzOnline. co.uk 6. Animal Print Top: Eden Rock Available www.SwishBoutique.co.uk 7. Stripe Dress: Frank Lyman. Available www.SwishBoutique.co.uk 8. Hairy Knit sweater, back buttons: Marble Available www.PizazzOnline.co.uk 9. Sweater with Cami: Marble Available www.PizazzOnline.co.uk 10. Orange Knit by Swish. Available www.SwishBoutique.co.uk 11. Orange knit by Swish Available www.SwishBoutique.co.uk

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 31

Beauty for Older Women Tracy Tamaris, Environ brand director in the UK, says: “A typical 50 year old woman will have noticeably photo-damaged (sundamaged), dull, dry skin. She may have enjoyed spells of minimally protected sunbathing over the years when low SPFs were the norm and tans were desirable, and perhaps a lifetime of cigarette smoking. Her skin will have brown pigmented spots and lines, signifying a lifetime deficiency of vitamin A, which

is destroyed by free radical damage associated with exposure to UVA light. “Without the protection of vitamin A and other antioxidants, damage had been done to the melanin producing cells and has also led to the breakdown of normal collagen and elastin fibres which should support skin tone. Hormonal changes through the menopause have caused the skin to be thinner and drier, with less natural oiliness and hydration. “Daily replacement of vitamin A in the skin stimulates healthy skin cell functioning and growth, boosts the natural moisturising factors and

promotes a better oil/water balance. The skin has an improved waterproofing barrier, better collagen formation and a reduction in hyper-pigmentation. Together with vitamin A, the antioxidant vitamins C, E and beta-carotene, applied to the skin in the creams and taken as oral supplements, together with essential fatty acid supplements (fish oils/evening primrose oil, linseeds, walnuts etc) all help combat dryness and promote better skin health.”

Exuviance is a dermatologist-developed skincare line from the makers of awardwinning skincare brand NeoStrata. The clinically proven at-home and professional range uses innovative formulations to promote Skin Fitness™ whilst luxurious natural botanicals comfort the skin and please the senses Exuviance Age Reverse Night Lift (50g £57.50), Exuviance Age Reverse Hydrafirm (50g £59.50), Exuviance Toning Neck Cream (75g £43.50),Exuviance Collagen Triple Boost Serum (30ml £49). www.neostrada.com

Environ - AVST 1 (50ml £29.95) Vitamin A enriched moisturiservand best selling Environ Ionzyme- C Quence eye gel (£58) www.environcorp.com and for stockists www.iiaa.eu isClinical Youth Complex (10ml £48, 37ml £128) Stimulates collagen & elastin provides rapid initial hydration for plumping of fine lines & wrinkles. www.isClinical.com

Jane Iredale. D20 Hydration Spritz 7 Smooth Affair Primer (£21.38). Prepressed Base mineral + Compact + handi brush (£31.98). www.janeiredale.co.uk

32 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

Clarins Super Restorative Day & Night Cream (Day 50ml £69, Night 50ml £73). Compensates for the absence of hormonal influences for older skin. www.clarins.co.uk

Voya (50ml £32) Get Glowing illuminating clay mask. Contains organic seaweed & helps purify and brighten your skin. Available: Spas & selected stores & www.voya.ie

Aubrey Lumessence Lift Face cream (30ml £31.99) Protective rejuvenating cream, firms and lifts skin and reduces hte appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for a softer, younger looking skin www.aubreyorganicsuk.co.uk.

READER’s OFFER: For your chance to try this product enter your details at www.alongthethames.co.uk/ competition-entries by 30th September.

Skin Revivals Intensive Face Lift Serum (30ml £18) Advanced botanicals and natural moisturisers help lift & smooth reducing the appearance of fine lines & wrinkles www.beautynaturals.com

Clarins Shaping Facial Lift (50ml £49). Contains Guarana , Zerumbert ginger and Kaki Extract. Refines, lifts and moisturises. Available 28th September www.clarins.co.uk

MAKE-UP TIPS Celebrity make-up artist and Oriflame brand ambassador, Gary Cockerill, says 1. As you age, your lips sheer liquid foundations appear thinner. To make with light-diffusing your mouth look fuller, pigments that are soft and choose bright lipsticks silky with great coverage. and glosses (peaches, Avoid those described pinks, vibrant reds) over as "matte," "velvet," and deep shades (burgundies, "long-wearing"; a foundation wines, browns). Add a little that's too thick will settle colour and definition first into fine lines and sap the by filling in lips with a lip luminosity from your skin. liner a shade darker than 3. Update your make-up your natural lip colour, then bag. Many older women use a mattifying lipstick I work with are stuck in a which will stay in place. rut and are still using the Add a dab of gloss on top same products they used for a touch of shine. Beware 20 years ago. These will though - if you line your not only be out of date lips too heavily, or with a but also no longer suitable colour that's too dark, they'll for you as your skin tone, look tight and pursed. complexion and even hair 2. Choose the Right colour may have changed. Foundation. As you age your Invest in some new products skin loses pigmentation so which are formulated with you need to even this out mature, aging skin in mind. with foundation. Less is 4. Applying plenty of more though – too much moisturiser before can have an aging effect foundation and concealer so only use foundation will temporarily plump up where you need it to even your skin and make those out discoloration. Look for fine lines a little less visible. LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 33

Mullins Beach

THE COLOURFUL CARIBBEAN MAKES THE BEST FAMILY ESCAPE There are many ways to blow a fouryear-old’s mind. But, looking down at her pink flip-flops and suddenly noticing they’ve turned purple, is a pretty big wow moment for my daughter on holiday. We’re 150ft below sea level and experiencing ‘colour change’ on board our Atlantis Submarine. I had only just recovered from the little prank the crew made on our way out to the dive site. Being the gullible, panicky holiday mum I am, my eyes widened as I heard the words ‘get changed into your wet gear and swim across to the submarine’ towards the end of the safety preamble. We were on a boat - just me, my four-year-old and my beloved camera. We had no swim gear, my daughter can’t yet doggy paddle and my camera’s not waterproof. As I looked around at the other passengers, desperately eyeing up belongings for signs of towels and swimsuits, I noticed a few smirks. Our instructor was joking, of course. They like to do that a lot here. As we take our seats, there’s a feeling of claustrophobia and excitement when the captain yells ‘Dive! Dive! Dive! Dive! Dive!’ and we plunge into the depths of the ocean. We swirl past a shipwreck and bob around coral, while yellow goatfish, blue tangs and trumpetfish swim busily past our porthole. Children over three feet are all welcome on board and will delight at seeing what really is at the bottom of the deep blue sea. When deciding where to go for a family holiday with guaranteed sunshine, the obvious list isn’t very long. Camping in the south of France? A hotel in Spain? Maybe a villa in Greece or Portugal? Let me throw in another option that might excite the grown-ups just as much as the little ones. How about Barbados? With year-round average temperatures of 28C, beautiful beaches, friendly people and fabulous family accommodation, there are few reasons not to give it a go. Distance and cost are probably the only hurdles. A long flight is never something to look forward to, particularly when you’re travelling with small children. Other mums will readily offer advice about keeping them entertained. “I went to a charity shop, bought lots of tiny toys, wrapped them up, then brought them out one-by-one, over the course of the flight,”

Royal Westmoreland one parent told me. I nodded suspiciously wondering how anyone finds the time. I’m fully stretched ensuring all the passports are in date, the washing is done, holiday clothes are bought, everything’s packed, and suncream and medicine are sorted. But there’s no need to stress about a plane ride. Obviously be prepared to entertain, walk the aisles and befriend random strangers that your kids take a shine to, but with films and TV programmes streaming inches in front of their eyes, food and drinks coming round before you even think about being hungry and a bit of a sleep, sand will be seeping through your toes in no time. The plush Royal Villas at the Royal Westmoreland resort make a great base on the Platinum Coast - so called because this is where all the rich people own property. Wayne Rooney has a villa here, and oodles of sportsmen and celebrities have homes in the area.

Barbados Wildlife Reserve

Despite it being a supposedly busy time for Barbados, the resort’s 750 acres, gorgeous greenery and vast facilities mean you barely see a soul. We share an entire pool area with about half a dozen other people. You can smugly turn up at any time of day and have an array of sun beds to choose from - a welcome change from the European resorts where you’re lucky to find one after 9am, let alone four together. Other nice touches include a fired-up barbecue on your arrival, complete with

Famous, Green Monkey

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 35

CountrySide Views a cheery chef to cook it for you. So once you’ve tucked the tots into bed, you can put up your frazzled feet, crack an awardwinning bottle of Bajan brewed Banks beer and be waited on hand and foot they even wash up afterwards and leave you with the leftovers!

pant in the heat, while deer and agouti are everywhere - all within touching distance.

The rather stunning 7,045 yard championship golf course is worth a visit and lessons can be organised with Roger Beale, who represented Barbados in the 2006 World Cup of Golf. Our little ones are too small for the family lesson, but my husband improved his (albeit awful) technique no end and apparently has “great potential”.

Much to the relief of my four-year-old, the only snakes we see are in cages, but it’s only at the very end of our visit when we finally sniff out the monkeys. Big families of them play at our feet, scarpering up on rooftops and into trees, grooming each other and generally behaving better than my little monkeys!

And, of course, you can hop on the shuttle and head down to Mullins Beach and Spa. The sparkling turquoise sea is tepid enough, even for teeny toes, all year round. Grab some beds and whenever you need a strawberry daiquiri (virgin concoctions are available for small people), just wedge your yellow flag in the sand and it will appear in a matter of moments. For older kids, the floating inflatable swing/slide/climbing wall set-up looks immense fun and days can easily be spent building sand castles and taking in vitamin D. For a day with a difference, though, try a trip to the Barbados Wildlife Reserve. Turtles hide away in their shells or

The Cliff Restaurant

The friendliest peacocks I’ve ever met share space with pelicans, chickens and other birds.

Grown-ups in need of time out can book a babysitter and pretend to be young and rich in Rihanna’s homeland. We play Spot The Celebrity while indulging in dinner at the renowned (and hugely expensive) The Cliff. Businessmen fly their private jets in for a meal at this restaurant, overlooking the ocean. If you’re lucky enough to book a table on the deck, you can listen to the waves crash against the side, while tarpon, stingray and a plethora of tiddlers swim right beneath you. But if spending 125 US dollars on a couple of courses of food doesn’t float your boat, you can always opt for a Tiami Catamaran cruise. The rum punch flows as you take in the sites of Barbados, have fun with the crew and snorkel for turtles.

Barbados is full of colour. There are vibrant flowers, wonderful wooden shack houses, and shops proudly presenting their pristinely painted fronts, looking like glorified beach huts. Driving past a local school, even the colour of the uniform is bright orange. It might just be the ultimate family holiday. And it’s certainly a great place to blow the mind of a four-year-old.

TRAVEL FACTS • Claire Spreadbury stayed at the Royal Westmoreland ( www. royalwestmoreland.com; 01524 889 341) which offers seven nights in a three-bedroom Royal Villa on a self-catering basis from £674 per person, based on a family of four sharing. Prices valid until December 14, 2014. • Thomas Cook Airlines (www.flythomascook.com) • The Atlantis Submarine (www.barbados.atlantissubmarines.com)

36 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

experience starts from around £48 per adult, £25 per child. • Entrance to the Barbados Wildlife Reserve is priced about £7 per adult, £4 per child. • There are numerous operators across the island offering catamaran cruises. A daytime snorkel with lunch cruise is priced around £53 per adult. • For further information on Barbados, visit www.visitbarbados.org

DIODE LASER l HAIR REMOVAL it works

it is

ON ALL AFFORDABLE SKIN PAINLESS T YPES it is

£60 *

Lower Arms Under Arms

Normally £160

Lower Arm Face

Normally £160

Half Legs Under Arms Bikini Line

£60 *

£80 *

Normally £240

La Perla CLINIC

• IPL is NOT laser • Generic Laser systems are not Diode Laser, which is clinically shown to be the most effective for Hair Removal • In most cases results are permanent • Special Package includes consultation and patch test • Full back treatment in only 20 minutes • Diode Laser is currently the most effective laser hair removal technology • It is relatively painless • Dermatologists recommend this system as it prevents folliculitis • Sessions usually last no more than 30 minutes • Safe and effective for all skin types

£60 *

Half Legs Under Arms

Normally £160

Half Legs Bikini Line

Normally £160

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 | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 37

Smoky Eyes Choose your colours. Any colour can be used to create a smoky eye, although you will need at least three shades of a similar hue. The classic smoky eye is created with black or grey, but bronze and brown are also commonly used. Green eyes look particularly good with a grey and plum smoky eye, while blue eyes pop with gold or copper and brown eyes go great with

shades of navy and grey . You should choose three shades of each colour: a light, creamy colour, a medium base colour, and a dark smoky colour. Avoid choosing colours that are too bright, or if you have very fair skin too dark. You want your smoky eye to accentuate your pretty face, not to distract from it.

w Palette yeshado Silk Fx E Palladio me Fatale (£15). FemutyNaturals.com www.Bea

). 5.99 tte (£look. e l a m P osh t for any etics.co xy P c Gala urs perfe UkCosm colo .Beauty www

merin

f shim

eo Rang

Urban Beauty Brusg Set (£7). Including eye defining brush, smudge brush & tapered blend brush to get that perfect red carpet smoky eye look www.UrbanBeautyUnited.co.uk.com

Oriflame ‘ONE’ range (£6.45). Colour compact cream eyeshadow in a range of colours. www.gb.Oriflame.com

Beauty UK (£3.49). Pearl eyeliner (Star dust) www.BeautyUKCosmetics.com

Celebrity Make-up artist, Gary Cockerill shares his top tips for achieving sultry, smoky eyes, using some of Oriflame’s collection: 1. Great news for those on a budget, the smoky eye can be easily achieved with just a few products. Start with a neutral shade like Oriflame’s The ONE Beige Pearl Colour Impact cream eyeshadow. Using the shade as a base, apply with your fingers for a sweep of all-over colour. 2. Next, add a slightly metallic shade like Shimmering Steel, also in The ONE Colour Impact range over the top, which will work to add light to the eyes. This can be applied with an eyeshadow brush or your fingers, depending on how neat or 38 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

messy a look you’re going for. 3. Brushing on a lavender shade like The ONE’s Intense Plum all over the eyelid but most intensely at the lashline will really bring the look to life. Blend this product towards the browbone, lining the eyes with the same shade using a thin liner brush. 4. Go over this plum line with a black eyeliner pencil, like Oriflame’s The ONE Eyeliner Stylo, to add emphasis, before coating the lashes with black mascara.

Lush Cosmetics : Success Eyeliner (silver metallic £14.50), Feeling Secure eyeliner (£14.50), Focus eyeshadow (£14.50). Everything you need to recreate the red carpet look! www.Lush.co.uk/products

ME ME ME Cosmetics Smoky Eye Set (£15.99). Everything you need to recreate the red carpet look! www.FindMeAGift.co.uk/Gifts

Lavera Illuminating eyeshadow (£14.50) - Quattro Indian Dream - Go for the natural day to intense night (wet) look at anytime. www.www.Lavera.co.uk

Stilla Metallic Eyeliners (£24). Comes in 4 shades: metallic black gold, metallic navy, metallic gun metal, metallic purple. www. Stilla.co.uk

Beauty UK (£2.99). Double ended eyeliner pencils in various colours . www.BeautyUKCosmetics.com

READER’s OFFERS

For your chance to try one of these product enter your details at www.alongthethames.co.uk/competitionentries/ by 30th September. Palladio Silk FX Eyeshadow Palette- Femme Fatale woth £15 Beauty UK Stardust Pearl eyeliner worth £3.49 + two Beauty UK double ended eyeliner, one copper & black and one, black & turquoise worth £5.98 Lavera Illuminating eyeshadow Quattro Indian Dream worth £14.50 Lush Success and Feeling Secure eyeliner with a Focus eyeshadow worth £43.50

READER’s OFFER

Living Along The Thames* and Cherish PR have teamed up to give 5 lucky winners the opportunity to win one of each book. A PART OF ME, by Anoushka Knight (£7.99) The story follows Amy and her partner James who have finally been accepted into the adoption process. When a dark secret changes everything, Amy needs to decide whether to follow her heart or her dream of motherhood. At times sad, and other times laugh-out-loud funny, A Part Of Me tackles issues that many women will relate to, with characters you’ll love. SUDDENLY LAST SUMMER by Sarah Morgan, (£7.99) Tells the tale of fiery French chef Élise Philippe. Not only have the opening-day plans for her beloved café fallen apart, but Sean O’Neil is back in town and looking more delectable than ever. Last summer, they shared an electrifying night in Paris… will she follow her heart or her head? Enter your details at www.alongthethames.co.uk/ competition-entries/ by 30th September to win one of these 5 books of each title. •

For Living Along The Thames T&C’s see www.AlongTheThames.co.uk

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 39

40 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

Isobelle Molloy Living Along The Thames, recently met local girl Isobelle Molloy, who played the young Maleficent in the Disney film of the same name. A delightful young lady, who certainly knows where she is going and has the determination to get there.

sobelle won a scholarship to Redroofs Theatre School, while still living in Essex and stayed with a chaperone until her family could move across to be with her. Isobelle now lives in Maidenhead with her family and like all thirteen year old’s loves to catch up with her friends and family in the holidays.

e were lucky to meet up with Isobelle during her summer holiday and learn about the exciting times she has been having as a young actress and the parts she has been playing.

sobelle has starred in the West End productions of Oliver and in the original cast of the Royal Shakepeare Company production of the award winning Matilda, playing the role of Amanda. However, it wasn’t long before her talent was recognised and she took on the title role of Matilda in this much acclaimed musical. As well as her West End productions our readers my recognise Isobelle from BBC’s Eastenders where she played the role of Bella Young.

t was during her run in Matilda that she was spotted by the casting director of Malificant and the rest, as they say, is history. Here she talks about playing the young Maleficent and meeting Angelina Jolie and all the other host of actors that she rubbed shoulders with. HAVE YOU ALWAYS WANTED TO BE AN ACTRESS? “I have always loved performing and I started acting classes when I joined Tomorrow’s Talent at eight. Tomorrow’s Talent believed in me and supported me all the way and still do today and I couldn’t have done it without them! I have been very lucky to be in the theatre, on TV and now in films and couldn’t choose a favourite as I love doing all of them as they are all so different.” TELL US MORE ABOUT AUDITIONING FOR THE PART. “In a lot of cases you don’t know the Film that you are actually auditioning for and that was also the case here. For the first two auditions I had to read from two different film scripts and for the final one I had to go to Pinewood Studios for a screen test, which I loved.”

WHERE DID YOU GO TO FILM YOUR ROLE? “Most of the filming was done at Pinewood Studios over a period of two years, but I did get the chance to go to LA for a week and do a scan for CGI! The filming started in the autumn of 2012 for a few weeks and then I did a few more weeks in the summer of 2013 and the voice work just before Christmas 2013.” TELL US ABOUT MEETING ANGELINA JOLIE AND THE REST OF THE CAST. “I first met her when she was in full costume as Maleficent and although I was a little nervous at first, she helped put me at my ease as we discussed the character, the costumes and the make-up as I had to have prosthetics in my cheeks; around three hours a day. Angelina said I could go to her at any time for help, which made me realise that she and the others, such as Imelda Staunton, “are just like you”!” I have not seen Angelina since the filming as the world premier was in LA, but I went to the cast and crew screening in London. It was the first time I had seen the film in full. WHAT WERE SOME OF YOUR FAVOURITE MOMENTS? • “Being strapped into a harness and flown above a forest as a scene with real reindeer.” • “Working with the Director, Robert Stromgberg, who I would love to work with again” • “Going to LA first class to do the CGI scan, staying in a hotel on Sunset

Boulevard and I got to see ‘The Wanted’, - WOW” Isobelle loves to work as an actress be it films, theatre or TV and is always looking for the next opportunity. We enjoyed speaking with Isobelle, who we found to be very grounded girl, who has a lot of respect for the ‘craft’ that she is Learning. Isobelle is very passionate about all that she does and is driven to do the best she can. Nothing gets in her away even not getting a part, “don’t take it personally, move on and it will happen, it just means that you are not right for the part.” Isobelle, through Redroofs School, also fund raises for the Charity, Rosie’ Rainbow Fund, on a regular basis. If you would like to know more about the Charity and fundraising visit: www. rosiesrainbowfund.co.uk Isobelle couldn’t say what her next projects are but I am sure this is not the last we have seen of her and look forward to seeing her on our screens or in our theatres again.

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 41

Club Life!

ounded in 1908, Stoke Park became the first Country Club in the UK, influenced by the great country clubs of America. Offering a variety of facilities and services for the whole family, with an emphasis on enhancing your lifestyle through meeting new people, attending wonderful events and improving yourself via sport, wellness and fitness, 106 years later, membership still remains one of the best in the country!

Stoke Park is famous for so many things, but are you aware of all that there is to offer? And when was the last time you visited? Stoke Park is known as: a Golf Club, a Tennis Club, a Health Club, a breath taking Wedding Venue, a 5 Star Luxury Hotel, an Award Winning Spa and Pool, an Award Winning Restaurant Humphry’s, an Iconic Movie Location, and the venue for world class events, such as The Boodles tennis and the recent Elton John and Katherine Jenkins concerts. All these elements combine to provide the truly iconic, unique and much loved estate, but what remains at the heart of Stoke Park is the Country Club and its Members. SO, WHY JOIN STOKE PARK? Stoke Park offers the best leisure facilities combined with outstanding

friendly service. All Members feel immediately relaxed and for many it is seen as their second home.

Nights • Summer Ball • Al Fresco Dining Italian Dining • Modern British Cuisine • Impeccable Service

Whether you are playing a round on the 27 hole Championship golf course designed by the legendary Harry Colt in 1908, exercising with a personal trainer in the gym, sampling Executive Chef Chris Wheeler’s latest cuisine or making the most of the acclaimed tennis facilities, the aim is to always provide Members with the finest in service, hospitality and facilities, not to mention a packed social calendar and to be something which they are proud to be members of.

HEALTH MEMBERSHIP State-of-the-Art 4,000 sq.ft Gym • 3 Studios including Spinning and Hot Yoga • Large Indoor Pool • Steam Rooms • Sunbathing Terrace & Gardens • Personal Training • Technogym Equipment • Full Induction including Health Check • 50+ Classes a week included in your Membership

So many events take place during the year, from fabulous gourmet evenings in the 3 AA Rosette fine dining restaurant, Humphry’s to Ladies Lunches, to the Summer Ball to Bonfire Night, with sensational fireworks to the children’s Christmas Parties. The Club is full of life and being a member is a great way to enhance your social life, as well as your health and wellbeing.

WHAT MEMBERSHIPS DO THEY OFFER?

Stoke Park offers various memberships for adults and children: SOCIAL MEMBERSHIP Extensive Social Calendar • 3 Restaurants & Bars • Themed Lunches • Bonfire Night • Christmas Parties • Gourmet

TENNIS & HEALTH MEMBERSHIP All the benefits of Health Membership plus: 3 Indoor, 4 Floodlit Artificial Clay & 6 Wimbledon Specification Grass Courts • LTA Coaches • RollUps • Box Leagues • Team Matches • PlaySight Analysis System GOLF MEMBERSHIP 27 Hole 1908 Championship Golf Course • Grass & All-weather Practice Range , Chipping & Pitching Areas • Teaching Academy • Indoor Swing Studio • PGA Coaches • Video Analysis • Putting Green • Roll-Ups Team Matches • Overseas Trips • Academy Membership (for those starting golf) JUNIOR MEMBERSHIPS Various options available inc Swimming • Tennis & Golf Lessons • Tennis & Golf Camps • Outdoor Playground Games Room • Creche • Kids Parties

To arrange a show round or for more information please contact the Membership Team on 01753 717179 or email nlyall@stokepark.com www.stokepark.com - Stoke Park, Park Road, Stoke Poges,,Bucks, SL2 4PG 42 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

Unsung heroes of wartime hospitals

Young soldiers being killed or horrifically injured in brutal warfare is the classic image of the First World War. The courageous women who worked tirelessly beside the battlefields to save the lives of the maimed soldiers are rarely considered. Yet m any of those brave nurses died as they performed their invaluable role near the bloody trenches in France and Belgium, and many others were left with mental scars that would last a lifetime. But because their sacrifice was small compared to the millions of soldiers who lost their lives during the Great War, their contribution to the war effort has, to a large extent, been forgotten. New book, The Hospital In The Oatfield, and an accompanying exhibition, hopes to remedy that by telling the story of the First World War’s doughty nurses, focusing on a field hospital run by the society beauty, Millicent, Duchess of Sutherland. The Duchess, who had always fought for social justice despite her privileged background, sailed to France to give medical help and ‘meet the war’, just five days after it started in August 1914. Much of the initial care for injured soldiers was performed at Casualty Clearing Stations close to battlefields in France and Belgium. They had limited medical supplies and were only able to give cursory attention to severely injured men, with the nurses often kneeling in mud as they did their best to administer first aid. The soldiers were then transferred to more distant hospitals outside the battle and shelling zones, but many died en route. For this reason, it was decided the hospitals should be brought to the men,

and in the spring of 1915, the Duchess of Sutherland set up a temporary hospital under canvas in Bourbourg, inland from Dunkirk. Known to locals as ‘the camp in the oatfield’, the tented hospital, which was thought to have around 100 beds crammed into it, was staffed by two doctors, a matron, 14 trained nurses, and four Voluntary Aid Detachment (VAD) nurses who came from a variety of backgrounds, some very privileged. Natasha McEnroe, director of the Florence Nightingale Museum, which published the book and is currently running the Hospital in the Oatfield exhibition, says: “Nurses in the Great War experienced the true horrors of the battlefield first-hand.

“Women were under physical and emotional attack as much as anybody else, and they were in danger, They were incredibly brave.” “Even the experienced nurses wouldn’t have seen anything like the injuries they had to deal with in those hospitals. The amount of damage that was done to the soldiers was absolutely horrific.” The First World War was Europe’s first experience of industrial warfare, and blast injuries from shrapnel shells could destroy limbs, lacerate flesh and leave deep holes in soldiers’ bodies. Many of the wounded, it’s said, were unrecognisable as human beings. As antibiotics had not yet been discovered, even if soldiers survived their initial battle injuries, infections often set

in and caused an excruciatingly painful death. As well as blast injuries to deal with, there were also the horrific effects of gas attacks, which burned soldiers both on the outside of their bodies and inside their mouths and lungs. “It would have been terribly upsetting for the nurses - not just the awful wounds, but having to care for these distressed men, who were blinded and blistered

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 43

The Hospital In The Oatfield is published by the Florence Nightingale Museum, priced £15.99. For more information about the exhibition, visit www. florence-nightingale.co.uk

inside and out by the burning gas,” says McEnroe. “The trauma of caring for men with this type of injury, and particularly those who had facial damage and couldn’t eat, was horrendous.” Christine Hallett, Professor of nursing history at the University of Manchester, wrote one of the chapters in the book. She says many of the nurses were “totally unprepared for the horrors of the First World War military hospital”. “It is almost impossible for us to imagine just how shocking an experience nursing work must have been for many of these young women,” she adds. Indeed, describing her gruelling early wartime nursing experiences, the Duchess of Sutherland wrote that she “felt stunned - as if I were passing through an endless nightmare”. One nurse in charge of a ward at a Casualty Clearing Station, who received 45 dangerously injured patients in one night, 15 of whom died before the morning, broke down emotionally and physically, and had to be admitted to a convalescent home herself. The severely injured men arrived caked in mud from the trenches, and nurses had to clean the filth off them and pick out bits of shrapnel, dirt and clothing from their wounds, before liberally applying antiseptic, and using wound irrigation techniques such as the Carrel-Dakin method. This involved using sodium hypochlorite to clean wounds, via jars of the fluid attached to tubes and rubber nozzles, which were placed at various wound sites, bandaged on and changed every two hours.

The treatment helped prevent the spread of infections such as gas-gangrene. Other groundbreaking new treatments included the portable storage of blood for transfusions, and mobile X-ray equipment. McEnroe explains: “The war was a time of medical breakthrough, because the medical staff had to improvise - things were so desperate, and there was such a high amount of casualties, that in this highly-charged atmosphere, new ways of helping them were discovered. “The nurses were so innovative. They would improvise medical equipment from anything that was lying around, like odd bits of wood.” The nurses also did their best to create homely environments for themselves and the men, finding bits of furniture to bring to the wards and picking flowers, using shell casing as makeshift vases. However, they also had to clean the wards themselves, and perform other menial tasks, like pegging down the hospital canvas on windy days. “There’d been an emphasis on considering the patient from before the war, looking at the importance of hygiene and ventilation, and keeping the patient calm and happy,” says McEnroe. “But it was the theatre of war that brought that care to prominence.” The book and exhibition are illustrated with photographs taken by one of the hospital in the oatfield’s surgeons, Oswald Gayer Morgan, and paintings by the French artist Victor Tardieu, a volunteer ambulance driver who painted vivid hospital scenes on wooden panels whenever he could.

44 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

“The paintings and photos give a snapshot of what life in the hospital was like,” says McEnroe. “When people think about the First World War, they think about the soldiers and the trench warfare, and don’t necessarily think about the role of women. This is something we hope will be brought out as part of the centenary year.” Women were under physical and emotional attack as much as anybody else, and they were in danger, They were incredibly brave. Lisa Salmon

Cookham and Maidenhead Arts Trail

Susan Day, Kirsty Brooks, Mandy McAllen(C), Sarah Luton

On September 27th and 28th, a group of local artists will launch the first ever Cookham and Maidenhead Arts Trail. Comprising 27 entries in 17 venues across Cookham and Maidenhead, the trail will feature paintings in oil, watercolour and acrylic, drawings, print making, photography, ceramics, architectural glass, installation, sculpture, embroidery, lamp-work glass and silver jewellery. An arts trail encourages visitors to meet the artists and talk to them about their work, learn about their practise or see them in action. Trail organiser Sarah Luton says “this format gives the artist an opportunity to display their work under their own terms, often in their own working environment rather than in a gallery or shop.”

Mandy McAllen For painter Mandy McAllen it’s about meeting people and making a personal connection. She believes “it adds value to a piece if the owner knows something about the artist and how they work. It’s also important that people who may never consider visiting a gallery should feel comfortable about looking at art in less intimidating and sometimes very interesting venues.” For more information on timings and artists, please visit the website - www.camat.org.uk and facebook at www.facebook.com/artstrail

Susan Day

CRYPTIC Crossword ACROSS

1. Photograph albums (7-5) 7. This kind of shooting is pitched too high (5) 8. Fish put on ice (5) 9. And 19 Across. One of the main colours (3-5) 10. A man of scruples as far as physics are concerned! (9) 11. Speculation that her toy will get broken (6) 12. A plank on the ship (6) 15. Left to be profligate (9) 17. To produce sparks in car components (3) 18. Try hard to raise the abode of the blessed almost (5) 19. See 9 Across 21. His work is seen in daily circulation (9-3)

DOWN

1. One of the embassy staff who makes news? (5,7) 2. Fortunately the Spenserian maiden is hidden within (3) 3. Reveal an attitude no longer adopted (6) 4. Where to find the natives lying! (6-3) 5. He wrote of 8 getting cooked (5) 6. About the manufacture of goods in the antique style (12) 7. See 20 Down 10. Such exploits can't be viewed lightly (4,5) 13. Repeatedly making a profit (5) 14. Game in disorder - it may take some solving (6) 16. It has many similar ways to cause astonishment (5) 20. And 7 Down. Anti-glare device I tint, by the sound of it (8)

5 6

14 15

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 45

NT/John Millar

NT/Arnhel de Serra

13 National Trust walks in Berks, Bucks and Oxon this autumn Walking is a year-round pleasure, but autumn often creates the most colourful and spectacular settings for your walk and some of the best are at local National Trust places. Each autumn the Trust’s Great British Walk campaign aims to get as many people as possible to explore their special places on foot. Knowing where to go is often the biggest challenge, so the National Trust has published a selection of its best walks online, for you to download and take with you. There are 13 downloadable National Trust walks in Bucks and Oxon alone, from a 45-minute Butterfly Walk on Watlington Hill just a 10-minute drive from Junction 6 of the M40, to a challenging 4-hour walk from the

iconic White Horse Hill at Uffington, to Ashdown House near Lambourn. There are other walks at Ashridge near Tring, Hughenden near High Wycombe, Cliveden near Maidenhead and Stowe near Buckingham. All invite you to enjoy the richness and variety of autumn colour on foot, from shades of green pasture, flashes of jewel-red berries and the burnt orange of autumn to the slate grey stone and warm red brick of our local historic buildings. Share pictures of your colourful walks and experiences with the National Trust this year on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook using #GBwalk. For more information on National Trust seasonal strolls and downloadable walks visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/southeast

NT/Megan Taylor

NT/Stowe Palladian Bridge

EWORK SEASON…NOW! PREPARE YOUR PETS FOR FIR Fireworks aren’t reserved just for Guy Fawkes Night these days – Halloween celebrations often involve fireworks and as the nights draw in many an after dark party may go off with a whizz and a bang! It is important to start thinking about desensitizing your dog to the unusual noises as soon as possible, especially if you have a young dog or a dog who you know gets frightened. Now is the perfect time to plan ahead. You will have a few weeks to help your pet and time to seek veterinary advice should you need it. Using desensitization methods successfully helps many pets. Soundbites are available that simulate the

random and unpredictable noises of fireworks. These should be played in the weeks leading up to the firework season, gradually building up the volume and length of time it is played. Your pet will then gradually become used to the noises and begin to ignore them. A free MP3 download of firework noise is available at http:// www.dogsandfireworks.com The RSPCA have a great deal of advice on their website which provides more information for dog owners and also advice for those of you with smaller pets, cats, rabbits etc. Visit this link to benefit from the RSPCA’s extensive knowledge. http://www.rspca.org.uk/

46 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

adviceandwelfare/pets/general/fireworks As well as working to desensitize your pet it is also important to ensure you provide a safe haven, away from the main source of noise and flashes. Take your pet to this area several times before the event, giving him or her the opportunity to settle with a chew or toy for a while. It’s a good idea to feed on this area a few times too. In some cases medication is the best solution and ideally this should be started 2-3 weeks before the firework season begins. We advise you speak to your vet for advice. Claire Fryer

Local landscape The days of summer are ending. Every season has its own specialities, but autumn with the wonderful colours must be high on everyone’s list of favourites. As well as the spectacular displays of colour, you have the countryside around us transforming from the exuberance of summer, to the quite of winter. But what causes our trees and hedges to go into their winter hibernation? Trees and plants get most of the energy they need to grow from the sun. To harvest the suns energy in spring, deciduous trees grow a new set of leaves. Leaves are the plants solar panels, able to harness the power of the sun. Unlike the solar panels we put on our roofs, leaves convert the carbon dioxide from the air and water supplied by the roots of the plant into oxygen and carbohydrates. Just like us, the carbs provides the energy which allows the plant to grow, flower and set seed. When the sun shines, sunlight is abundant and the leaf canopy can produce more energy than it uses. With the onset of autumn, the days get shorter and colder. Shortening days means, the leaves are no longer efficient at producing the food the plant needs. In order not to waste energy, they need to be disposed of. This process gives us such spectacular autumn colours. In Late summer as the daylight decreases and temperatures, begin to cool a layer of cells form at base of leaf closing off veins in the leaves that carry fluid into and out of the leaf. As this plug develops, less and less food is taken into the leaves, decreasing the amount of Chlorophyll. Why do trees’ leaves change colour? Now for the science bit. Leaves contain chemical pigments, the most familiar is chlorophyll, which makes leaves

green. Chlorophyll absorbs red and blue light from the sunlight, using this energy to produce food. The unused light, the green, reflects off the surface of the leaf. This is why leaves appear green to us in the summer. Lack of food and the cooler days of autumn cause the chlorophyll to break down. As the chlorophyll is no longer absorbing the red and blue parts of sunlight other chemicals like the carotenoids, which are masked by the abundant Chlorophyll in summer, come to the fore. Carotenoids produce the yellow and oranges we see in autumn leaves. However, we do need to have a certain type of weather to ensure we see the multi-coloured effect. Read on…. Weather wise our summer needs to have been dry, we then need sunny autumn days with cold nights without any frost. We get a more muted colour range if we have cloudy, raining days. Autumn is a great time to experience the countryside. From your own garden with is changing characteristics to displays in woods and hedgerows. WHERE TO SEE THE COLOURFUL DISPLAYS. Just a short drive from Henley is BBOWT reserve Warburg, (www.bbowt.org. uk). The reserve is home to many old Oaks and Beech trees. Take a walk through the woods and marvel at the beautiful cooper and gold displays. Why not stop off at the Quince Tree, http://www.thequincetree. com/for refreshments, just a 10 minute drive from Warburg Fancy a day out, head for Westonbirt

Arboretum near Tetbury, (http://www. forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt). Experience their wonderful autumn tree colour. Jacky & Mark Bloomfield

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 47

The Dragon Phoenix Bracelet by Monica Li The poignant depiction of a divided family living in early twentieth-century China. A tale of love, betrayal and redemption. Three siblings born in a privileged family in China suffer hardships during the Japanese occupation and were separated because of the Cultural Revolution. Years later a Singaporean granddaughter goes back to China in search of a mysterious dragon Phoenix bracelet that may reunite the family. The Dragon Phoenix Bracelet will appeal to those who believe in looking back at our roots in order to move forwards, combined with a fascinating insight into the culture and volatile political history of twentiethcentury China - £9.99, Paperback

Grieftime by Heather Bulpett The gripping tale of a futuristic society where life is regulated by the state and nobody is quite what they seem… In a world where life, love and even reproduction are regulated by the state, Lyn reluctantly accepts that she must marry again just weeks after her first husband’s death. Supported by her friend Judith, she acquiesces to her every movement being monitored ‘in her own best interests’. Into Lyn’s life comes Mikey, a younger man who was once a pupil of hers. Lyn tries to follow the rules and fit into the wifely role that has been allotted to her, learning how to cope with the exuberant, straight-talking Mikey and his large, boisterous family - something she never had as an orphan brought up in a ‘dump’ home. But a new relationship is not the only surprise Lyn has to face: she feels as if she is being stalked, and isn’t even sure if she can trust her best friend anymore. As Lyn’s world unravels, she is comforted by her new husband and supported by her mysterious ‘counsellor’ Dylan. But who really has her best interests at heart, and can the heavy surveillance she is under ever be justified? Grieftime is an innovative dystopian novel that deals with a world run by technology. £17.99

His Life was a Lie by Jonathan S Harvey

A roller-coaster thriller that exposes deceit, treachery and ruthlessness at the heart of the British Establishment. Sir Roger Knight seems to be a classic British success story – he has a rock-solid business, a comfortable suburban home, an adoring wife and daughter, and a knighthood, to boot. But beneath the outward trappings of respectability and conformity lies a very different tale – whose roots lie in the murky wheelings and dealings of the dying days of the Third Reich. When Sir Roger and his wife Mary are subjected to a savage burglary and longforgotten documents go missing, his whole world begins to fall apart. Dodgy policemen, petty criminals, government agents and ruthless assassins alike will stop at nothing, it seems, to get their hands on the stolen papers and a chain of terrifying, brutal events is unleashed. Set on the South Coast where the author is based, this is a fast paced and thrilling read - £10.99, Paperback

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/competition-entries/ by 10th October2014 Congratulations to our winners from the July/August edition: Sarah Smithes, John James and Vanessa Raines

BOOK GUILD

The books on this page are from Book Guild Publishing i ld Ch

Fic t

ion

n’s re

PUBLISHING

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

48 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

Advertising Feature

Pottery Parties with a difference

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

The Painting, Pottery and Party Centre in Twyford

New Party Packages! HaaHoos based in Twyford is a fantastic place to hold your party and has a party package range which can cater for everyone from 4 years up to 100 years old! The party package range has had a recent re vamp which continues with all the popular favourites and has some exciting new options as well. You can choose from activities such as pottery painting, decopatch, fabric painting and silk painting and HaaHoos can even cater for of all the extras like party food, birthday cake, party games, balloons and party bags. Who doesn’t enjoy a

stress free party with all the bits and pieces taken care of? HaaHoos parties can also cater for adult groups as well. There is a corporate package which is great fun for a work party or event and HaaHoos even organise a delicious hot buffet dinner and drinks as well as the painting to make your event extra special. So why not hold your celebration at HaaHoos and you’re sure to have a party that everyone will enjoy! Visit the website for more information www.haahoosceramics.co.uk or call 0118 9321441.

Our range of parties is now even more exciting and includes silk painting, fabric painting and decopatch along with our pottery painting favourites. Fun for all ages from 4 years and up! We will arrange a stress free party for you and your guests which can also include food, cake and party games We are looking forward to celebrating with you at HaaHoos.

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

WRISTBANDS NECKBANDS & ANKLEBANDS BY BOING

November/December Featuring Christmas

Deadline - 10th October T: 01628 627 488 E: office@AlongTheThames.co.uk

FABULOUS FASHIONABLE ROPE BANDS FOR THE GREAT OUTDOORS WWW.BOING-INC.COM

“Marketing is an Investment not an Expense” LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 49

Breast Cancer Awareness Month October 2014 Andy Harris, Director of Fundraising and Marketing at Breast Cancer Care, said: “Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, so it’s vital we support the millions of women and their families who face the devastating physical and emotional impact of living with breast cancer every day.” Breast Cancer is the most common cause of death from Cancer in the UK. Nearly 12,000 die every year. Tateossian Bracelet Pink & Magenta Scoubidou Bracelet £49: For every purchase made £14.70 will be donated to Breast Care Bodhi & Birch: Special Edition Rosa Rosa Skincare set £80. 100% of all net profits made by Bodhi & Birch from the sale of this set will be donated. www. Bodhiandbirch.com

ery ev ill or ds w F : ee .99 oc £4 of pr e .uk tl rg ot 00% o . b e sa 1 ar rc ap de oll e ma to nce C a nk as ed tc Pi urch onat reas p e d .b b ww w

GHD coral bird of paradise styler £129: £10 donation to Breakthrough Breast cancer www.GHD hair.com

Milk-Shake Limted Edition Milk 12, leave in treatment: Special price of £9.99 with £1.00 being donated to Breast Cancer Research. www. Milkshakehaircare.co.uk

www.Tateossian.com

Debenhams Jacquard spot balcony bar, brazillian & thong - £18.50/£8.50/£6.50: 25% split between breakthrough breast cancer, Breast Cancer Campaign and Pink Foundation Ribbon. Purchase from. www.Breakthrough.org.uk FlopZ Siam Flip Flops with pink strap £40: 25% split between breakthrough breast cancer, Breast Cancer Campaign and Pink Foundation Ribbon. Purchase from. www.Breakthrough.org.uk

Anita Care - Tonya Bra (style 5706X) in sizes 32 - 42 A-D in black, champagne and nude: £30 (excl VAT). 10% of all profits to MacMillan. www.Eloise.co.uk

More than 8 out of 10 (85%) survive Breast Cancer beyond 5 years 50 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

1 in 8 women will develop Breast cancer in their lifetime

Leighton Denny: 20% of all proceeds from the sale of all products including the first debut fragrance, Light and Dark, his autobiography “How I nailed it”, Sun believable range, Lip dual and Expert nails purchased via www.LeightonDenny.com For your chance to win a copy of Leighton Denny’s Autobiography: ‘How I nailed it’, send your details to www. alongthethames.co.uk/competition-entries by 10th October.

Haircare Bundle from Philip Kingsley £28: All net proceeds to Breast Cancer Care. To purchase this product and many others visit www.QVCUK.com. Show you care Be Aware Fundraiser 13th October.

Tresor Paris : Are offering 25% to charity when purchasing Products. We show a few of our favourites Here Unisex White Crystal Sphere & Pink Crystal bow grey beaded bracelet £29 White pink crystal earrings £19 and Pink crystal box silver circle charm key ring. Visit www.TresorParis.co.uk for more products..

Kippling Small Cross Body Bag £27: All net proceeds to Breast Cancer Care. To purchase this product and many others visit www.QVCUK.com. Show you care Be Aware Fundraiser 13th October.

Men who get Breast Cancer are usually over the age of 60 and equate to around 350 men per year. These are just a few of the many organisations where you can get more information and events: www.breastcancercare.org.uk www.breakthrough.org.uk www.macmillan.org.uk www.wearitpink.org

Lilou et Loic: Are offering 10% to Passionate Pink http://www. passionatepink.co.uk/index.php during Breast Cancer Awareness month with thePink Grapefruit range which is very fittingly tied with a delicate pink gros grain ribbon. W hen purchasing any products that have the pink ribbon the 10% donation will also apply.www.lilouetloic.com

Debenhams Floozie by Frost French Pink Sports Wach £25. 25% split between breakthrough breast cancer, Breast Cancer Campaign and Pink Foundation Ribbon. Purchase from. www.Breakthrough.org.uk

Over 50,000 people in the UK are diagnosed with breast cancer each year - that’s one person every ten minutes! Breast Cancer Care aims to be there for anyone affected.

Autumn Tree Care Summer is nearly over and the autumn is round the corner. For trees and plants this is a busy time to prepare for the winter months.

The Team at Calibra Tree Surgeons offer some tips to help your trees survive the winter months in readiness for Spring GIVE YOUR TREES A DRINK. As temperatures fall, the ground gets frozen and hard so the trees are not able to get the water they require, resulting in a drought. If the temperature permits an occasional watering can be a life saver, especially for young trees. PRUNE YOUR TREES. Autumn is a good time to prune your trees. Trees are dormant in colder months. Proper pruning is vital to the health of trees and plants, in part because it helps relieve stress on trees and keeps them growing. Just be aware

that each tree is different, and pruning at the wrong time or in the wrong way can injure a tree increasing the likelihood of death or disease. PLANT NOW. Autumn is the best time of year for planting new trees. After cooler weather has set in, conditions are perfect for stimulating root growth in new trees. Once roots are established throughout the autumn and dormancy of winter, spring showers and summer warmth encourage new top growth.Â Autumn is the optimum time to plant balled and burlapped trees and shrubs. However, all bare root plants should be planted later in the season, when they are completely dormant.

Large Tree Dismantling Tree Thinning and Pruning

Tree Felling and Shaping Fruit Tree Maintenance

Stump Grinding and Logs

01628 878393

www.calibratree.co.uk

Freezing herbs Soft-leaved plants such as chervil, chives, coriander, dill, fennel, mint and parsley keep well when frozen. Cut small sprigs from the plants and wash the leaves. Put the herbs in a colander and immerse in salt water for 15-30 minutes to clean them thoroughly. Rinse under running water and shake well. Pat dry with kitchen paper.

52 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

Chives should be chopped up before sprinkling on a tray or plate to open freeze, then packed into small cartons. Other herbs can be frozen in freezer bags, removed while still frozen and crunched up, then stored in containers. Crunch them up as quickly as possible, as herbs defrost rapidly. Alternatively add herbs to water in ice-cube trays so you can extract a couple of herb ice cubes when you want to add flavour to soups and casseroles.

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.

For sensible advice call Mark at Thames Valley Landscapes

01628 629720 07818403751 mark@tvlandscapes.co.uk www.tvlandscapes.co.uk

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 53

Advertising Feature

Garden Rooms – a great solution Bespoke craftmanship and attention to detail from a family run specialist company, Bathstone Ltd, committed to the design, planning, construction and hand-over of a range of garden and out buildings to be proud of. You are safe in the knowledge that our buildings are constructed using only premium quality materials and finishing.

Bathstone Ltd not only design and build new buildings, but also refurbish and upgrade existing outbuildings, transforming them into useful extra spaces with stylish good looks and multiple uses. Garden Buildings have become increasingly popular in recent years, quickly and easily providing extra space for work or leisure, usually without requiring planning permission. Designs can be traditional or contemporary, oak, softwood or brick. All built to your requirements and budget, whether small, large, luxurious or purely functional. Our experienced staff, modern building materials and techniques combine to give you a building that will be low on maintenance and have a lifespan to match any ‘new build’. With high levels of insulation, double glazing and security, they are as cosy, safe and as well built as your home. We have refurbished every type of outbuilding, wood, stone, brick or concrete. Re-invented old garages, too small for modern cars, but perfect for a home office or studio. Concrete panel walls can be re-clad with an attractive timber on the outside and insulated, dry lined and decorated inside to give a wonderful and valuable new space to work or play. There are many good reasons to build a Garden Room, but none greater than the convenience of having your own purpose built extra space at home, in your garden. And with the increasing value of property, a great investment too! So, invest in your property and improve your quality of life by calling us on 01189 842555 or visit wwwbathstonegardenrooms. co.uk to see what we can do for you, and arrange a free home visit. TULIP ‘CARIBBEAN PARROT’ This flamboyant parrot tulip from Thompson & Morgan, produces feathery yellow petals, each with a fiery orangered edge, creating tropical, eye-catching flowers. The large and frilly blooms of Tulip ‘Caribbean Parrot’ are held on strong, sturdy stems, making them excellent as cut flowers for a vase indoors. Plant in Autumn so you get a really unusual display in spring borders and containers where it flowers later in the spring season. 54 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

Bathstone Ltd specialise in g a rd e n o u t b u i l d i n g s

We refurbish and upgrade old buildings into sumptuous garden rooms or just save old favourites from falling into disrepair. • Ugly concrete walls clad with beautiful timber. • New doors and windows. • Roofs repaired and replaced. • Damproofed and insulated for year round use.

Or we can build from new • Contemporary or Traditional designs. • All shapes and sizes. • A multitude of uses.

Call Bathstone today on 01189 842 555 or visit our website www.bathstonegardenrooms.co.uk Our site surveys, plans and written quotes are all absolutely free.

garden design

Coleby & Faulkner

in praise of trees A utumn is the perfect time to notice what some of the most stunning trees have to offer. It is also the perfect time for planting – warm soil gives new trees a chance to develop their roots while the weather is cool and damp. There are so many qualities that trees bring to the garden, it’s difficult to understand why they aren’t planted more widely: easy to maintain; providing seasonal colour, flowers and fruit; and of course bringing in wildlife. These are a few of our favourites which are less well known and suitable for growing in all but the smallest gardens.

Stunning autumn colour: • Parrotia persica Vanessa – pictured above • Winter berries: Crataegus x prunifolia • a relative of the native hawthorn, but with bigger and brighter berries • Shiny bark: Prunus serrula Tibetica - an ornamental cherry which also has delicate white spring flowers • Wildlife: Acer campestre - rarely planted in gardens but one of our best native trees.

design & development : project management : planting specialists : consultancy & sourcing : passionate about gardens

01628 478454

www.colebyandfaulkner.co.uk

find us on facebook

marketplace

SELF ASSESSMENT

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

Need help completing your Tax Return? Not enough time for paperwork?

ACCOUNTANTS

abc

Accounting Book Keeping Compliance

ABC Book Keeping & Accounting Services Ltd

Angela Aldridge MAAT ATT 12 Quoitings Drive, Marlow, Bucks, SL7 2PE.

Mobile: 07711 803243 Tel/Fax: 01628 476111 Email:office@abcacc.co.uk Website: www.abcacc.co.uk

WE COULD PROVIDE THE ANSWER! Randall Associates

Fast & Friendly U.K. Taxation Advice For a quote, ring Keith Randall on

T: 01628 520426 E: kas.randall@btinternet.com www.randallassociates.co.uk

30 Stratford Drive, Wooburn Green, Bucks HP10 0QH

A forward-thinking ﬁrm of Chartered Accountants, Business Consultants and Tax Advisers Tailoring our services to meet each client's requirements ‡ private individuals ‡ owner-managed businesses ‡ limited companies ‡ charities Located in Maidenhead town Centre with client parking

Call us for a 30 minute free consultation Tel: 01628 785000 www.harperbroom.com Aston House, York Road, Maidenhead SL6 1SF

AUTO

Martin adaMs

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

YOUR LOCAL MOT

SPECIALIST

A friendly family run business with 30 years experience Servicing all cars, new and old also light commercial vehicles.

VEHICLE SERVICING

• General car repairs and maintenance • Free courtesy car available • Tyres, exhausts and batteries supplied and fitted • Latest diagnostic equipment for all makes of vehicle • Air conditioning service available • 30 Years Experience

01628 850000 email: info@mavs.co.uk Alexander House, Wessex Industrial Estate, Bourne End

CLUBS

Temple Golf Club Temple Golf Club near Marlow, a Club with over 100 years of history and an increasingly modern approach offers a flexible lifestyle membership for Today’s Golfer.

In today’s world of time pressures, increasing business and family commitments and a focus on value for money, Temple offers a flexible usage-based range of membership options:

For further information contact us on:

01628 824795

or secretary@templegolfclub.co.uk www.templegolfclub.co.uk

Annual Sub (£)

Inclusive Rounds

Cost of Food & Additional Drink Rounds Spend (£) (Disc) (£)

Guests Green Fees (£)

Part Round / Twilight (£)

Voting Share

Handicap Management

Comps

County Card

A Comp Sunday Lunch for 2

FAMILY

WELLBEING

the family mediation partnership

Amazing Dentures Eat, Talk, Smile

your family, your future, your decisions

Divorce, Separation, Family Dispute

0333 800 80 81 info@tfmp.co.uk • www.tfmp.co.ok Less time, less stress, less money We can also assist with an FM1, Financial Disclosure, Memorandum of Understanding, Parenting Plans and after dispute support. Fees discounted by 20% to £100 per hour per client. No other charges apply

Beaconseld, Bourne End, Cookham, Henley, Marlow

Sue Davies MAFHP Foot Health Professional

59 Cannon Court Road Maidenhead, Berkshire SL6 7QP Registered member of the British Association of Foot Health Professionals

We can help you live life to the full once again with our beautiful, tailor made dentures. Andrew Dougan is a highly qualified Clinical Dental Technician who has been dedicated to bespoke denture creations since 1989.

• True life teeth & latest materials • Repairs & alterations • Cosmetic denture enhancements • Denture problem solving • FREE car park

Tel: 01628 634149 Mobile: 07743 314986 sue@suedaviesfeetﬁrst.co.uk www.suedaviesfeetﬁrst.co.uk

For honest, friendly advice or to book a FREE consultation call

01628 260045 or

07970 058506

17 Straight Bit, Flackwell Heath, Bucks HP10 9LS Andrew Dougan Dip CDT RCS (ENG) RDT GDC No. 162175

feetfirst

www.denture-world.co.uk

Sara Mayne Lic Ac MBAcC

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 527007

Mobile: 07732 705644

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

WELLBEING

HOME

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 AV ID 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

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

Need a Plumber Ltd? esT.1961 Family business

Call 07825 738883 01628 783590 All work guaranteed 12 months

43237

HOME Assignment Cleaning Services Ltd

Quality Window Cleaning Using Safe & Efﬁcient Reach & Wash system Commercial & Domestic Fully Insured FREE Quotes Established in Marlow since 1984

Tel: 01628 483952 www.assignmentcleaningservices.com

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

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

Approved Installers of Rubberbond EPDM Flat Roofs • • • • •

Independently assessed to last over 40 years Will not crack or tear Resistant to moss and fungus Unaffected by extremes of temperature Guaranteed for 20 years

• Eco friendly • Fully trained installers who work to defined levels of service laid out in the Fairtrades Homeowner’s Charter

For a free survey and quotation call:

01491 572765 or email:

info@rooftechnology.co.uk

www.rooftechnology.co.uk

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 SEPTEMBER. 11-14: ‘Heritage Open Days’, various venues across the UK. For more information -www.heritageopendays.org.uk 12: ‘Tiny Talk Time’ presents ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’, a special time for under-fives includes stories, trails and craft activities, 10.30-11.30 or 13.15-14.15, Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe. To book your place (£2 per child): 01494 421895. (B) 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: ‘Henley Show’, an agricultural show with attractions for all the family, gates open 08.30, Henley Showground, Hambleden, RG9 3AS. For more information: www.thehenley show.co.uk 13: ‘Proms at Mount Farm’, featuring Abba tribute band, televised 2nd half of ‘The Last Night of the Proms’ & spectacular fireworks finale, Mount Farm, Choke Lane, Cookham Dean. Box office (tickets £30): 01628 476512. 13: ‘Last Night of the Proms’ Marlow Music Makers & Marlow Ukelele Group at Christ Church, URC, Oxford Road, £10, 19:30. 13: ‘Hughenden’s Heritage Open Day’ free entry for all 12:00-16:30. 14: ‘Cliveden’s Car Display 12:0015:00, free event but normal admission prices apply. 14: ‘Asian Wedding Fair’ at the Crowne Plaza 11:00-16:00, free admission. 14: ‘The Cliveden Set Live – Step Back in Time’ ever wondered what Cliveden was like in the 1930’s when Lord and Lady Astor owned the house and the celebrities of the time were regular visitors? Join us, meet them and find out more, 12:0016:00, free event but normal admission charges apply – 01628 550320.(NT) 14: Halton House Wendover Open Day 10.00-16.00 + Halton Village Fete 11.00 – 17.00 Vintage Shuttle Bus will run between House and Village. 14: ‘Chilterns Countryside & Food Festival’ at the National Trust Ashridge

Estate, Bridge Water Monument, Nr Berkhamstead. 10:00-16:00 – 01844 355506 15: ‘Boutique Cinema’, screening starts at 20.00 with a pre-feature comedy classic from 19.30, Clayton’s, Oxford Road. (advisable to book your seat in advance: 01628 488404). 15: ‘Origins of Fawley Railway and Museum’ a talk by Bob Hatfield for the Marlow Society, Local History Group, Garden Room, Liston Hall, Chapel Street, 19:30. 16: ‘Knitting and Crochet Lessons’ with Christine Walmsley at The Pugin Rooms, St Peter’s Street, £35 for 5 weeks in Crochet 18:30-19:15 also on 30/9, 14/10, 04/11, 18/11, 07816 007618 18: ‘World War One Training Trenches’, David Greenwood & Norman Groves, Archaeology in Marlow, 20.00, Garden Room, Liston Hall, tickets £5 18: ‘Thame Show – Oxfordshire’s County Show’, 08.30-18.00, Thame Showground, Kingsey Road, Thame, OX9 3JL. For more info & tickets: www. thameshow.co.uk 18: ‘Exclusive Menu Tasting’ at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, 5 courses, plus wine, starting with canapés, £55 per person – 01628 496800. 18-27:’To kill a canary’, a new Sherlock Holmes mystery, various times Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley on Thames, RG9 2BP. Box Office 01491 575698 19: ‘Longridge Charity Gala Dinner’ at the Compleat Angler, 19:00, tickets, £75 (to raise funds for building works) to book visit www.longridgeorg.uk and click ‘Give it a Try’ 20: ‘Marlow Carnival’, Higginson Park – 11:00-17:00 – www.marlowcarnival.co.uk. 20: ‘Countryside Workout’, join the NT ranger team whilst helping to conserve this special place, 10.00-16.00, Hughenden Manor, nr. High Wycombe. For further details: 01494 755573.(NT) 20-21: ‘Hughenden’s 1940s Weekend’, discover what life was like for wartime families, meet British Home Guards & enjoy a display of 1940s vehicles, 11.00-17.00, Hughenden Manor, nr. High Wycombe. (Normal admission charges apply).(NT)

21: ‘Marlow Food Festival’ at The Compleat Angler – 07912 696658. 22: ‘Boutique Cinema’, screening starts at 20.00 with a pre-feature comedy classic from 19.30, Clayton’s, Oxford Road. (advisable to book your seat in advance: 01628 488404). 23: ‘Knitting and Crochet Lessons’ with Christine Walmsley at The Pugin Rooms, St Peter’s Street, £35 for 5 weeks in knitting 18:30-19:15 also on 07/10, 21/10, 11/11, 25/11, 07816 007618. 24: ‘Wine Tasting’ with Marlow Wine Society, 20.00, Pugin Rooms, St Peter’s Church, St Peter Street. For more information: 01628 482299. 25: ‘Wine Tasting Event – Rioja & Ribera – Spanish Wine’ at The Assembly Room, 1 Market Square, £37.50 includes food and wine samples – 01628 474718 – www.theassemblyroom.co.uk 25: ‘Charity Fashion Show’, (including a glass of wine on arrival & buffet) supporting MacMillan Cancer Support, £25pp, 19.00, Crowne Plaza Hotel, Fieldhouse Lane. To book your place: 01628 496800.(B) 26: Churches Together in Marlow presents ‘John Newton – Amazing Grace’ Shelley Theatre at 19:30, Tickets £10 26: ‘Macmillan’s Biggest Coffee Morning’. Look out for your local events. 26: ‘Tiny Talk Time’ presents ‘Elmer’, a special time for under-fives includes stories, trails and craft activities, 10.3011.30 or 13.15-14.15, Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe. To book your place (£2 per child): 01494 421895. 27: Transition Town Marlow Community Market, local foods and crafts plus new free practical workshops, 09.30-13.00, Liston Hall. 27: ‘Fun Dabble Day’, come and learn some new crafts in a range of different media, hosted by Flackwell Heath Evening WI, 10.30-15.30, Flackwell Heath Community Centre, Straight Bit. 27: ‘Theatre in the Villages – My Tutu’s Gone AWOL – Lestyn Edwards at Frieth Village Hall, 20:00, doors open 19:15 – 07889 396838 27-28: ‘Maidenhead Arts Trail’, www. camat.org.co.uk

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

62 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

O u t & Ab o u t

28: ‘Marlow Town Walk’ a guided walk with The Marlow Society, 14.30, starting at Liston Hall. (No booking required, £2.50 per adult, children free). 28: ‘Wedding Fair’, 12.00-15.30, Taplow House Hotel, Taplow, SL6 0DA. 29: ‘Boutique Cinema’, screening starts at 20.00 with a pre-feature comedy classic from 19.30, Clayton’s, Oxford Road. (advisable to book your seat in advance: 01628 488404). 29-05 Oct: Henley Literacy Festival, various locations in Henley. For more info: www.henleyliteracyfestival.co.uk

OCTOBER 01: ‘Club Meeting’ for The Four Seasons. At Liston Hall, 10:15, there is a bring and buy table, raffle and book stall. 02: ‘Lost in the Woods – Medieval Farms in the Chilterns’, Andy Ford, a talk for Archaeology in Marlow, 20.00, Garden Room, Liston Hall. 03- Jan 2015: ‘Gruffalo’s Child Activity Trails’ at Wendover Woods. 04+05: ‘Pumpkin Carving + Halloween Fun’ at Odds Farm Park with Madness and Mayhem from our crazy entertainers, a ghoulish Halloween trail. 04: ‘Wine Tasting’, a chance to sample a selection of fine wines available from Laithwaites, 10.00-16.00, at the Rebellion Brewery Shop, Bencombe Farm, Marlow Bottom, SL7 3LT. 05: ‘Music for an Autumn Afternoon’, a free concert featuring ‘Darren Moore (brass trio), 15.00-15.50, All Saints’ Church. 05: ‘Maidenhead Boundary Walk,’ walk starts from Boulter’s Lock Car park www.boundarywalk.org.uk 05: ‘Bisham Abbey Wedding Fair’, 11.00-15.00, Bisham, SL7 1RR. 05: ‘Guides for Brides Wedding Fair’, 11.00-16.00, Crowne Plaza Hotel, Fieldhouse Lane. 06: ‘Boutique Cinema’, screening starts at 20.00 with a pre-feature comedy classic from 19.30, Clayton’s, Oxford Road. (advisable to book your seat in advance: 01628 488404). 07: ‘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 per person, BBQ all year round!

07: ‘Autumn Season – Tuesday Garden tours at Cliveden’, enjoy a free guided tour and find out about the latest on-goings in the gardens. First come first served so arrive early, meet outside Information Centre – 14:00-15:00, normal admission fees apply – 01628 605069. 07: ‘Stand Up Comedy’ at The Assembly Room, 1 Market Square, £5 – 01628 474718 – www.theassemblyroom.co.uk. 08-12: ‘MMCS presents Anything Goes’, at Desborough Suite, Maidenhead SL6 1RF. For more details 07979382250/ www.mmcs.biz 09: ‘Monthly Tea Dance’ by the Marlow Community Association, 14.00-16.00, Liston Hall. 09:’The Rat Pack 15th Anniversary Tour’ with Kenny Lynch, 19:30 Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley on Thames, RG9 2BP. Box Office 01491 575698 10:’Bake it Big with Glenn Gosby’, from Series 4 of Great British Bake-off, 19:30 Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley on Thames, RG9 2BP. Box Office 01491 575698, www.glenngosby.co.uk 11: ‘Hambleden Covered Market’, homemade cakes, cheeses, organic bread, local meat, crafts, collectables and hot food all day,10.00-15.00, Hambleden Village Hall. 11: ‘Cantorum Choir Concert’, 19.3021.30, All Saints’ Church. 11+12: ‘Pumpkin Carving + Halloween Fun’ at Odds Farm Park with Madness and Mayhem from our crazy entertainers, a ghoulish Halloween trail. 11: Theatres in the Village – The Visit – Teatro Unfortunato at The Kimble Stewart Hall, Little Kimble, 20:00, doors open 19:30, £10 – 07961 401541. 12: ‘Cookham Copas Turkey Trots’ run through the Copas Farmlands. www.

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

cookhamrunningclub.com. 12: ‘Henley Half Marathon & 10km run’ - For more details 01491578042 12: ‘Music for an Autumn Afternoon’, a free concert featuring the ‘Wycombe Music Centre Youth Choir’, 15.00-15.50, All Saints’ Church. 12: ‘The Cliveden Set Live – Step Back in Time’ ever wondered what Cliveden was like in the 1930’s when Lord and Lady Astor owned the house and the celebrities of the time were regular visitors? Join us, meet them and find out more, 12:0016:00, free event but normal admission charges apply – 01628 550320. 13: ‘Boutique Cinema’, screening starts at 20.00 with a pre-feature comedy classic from 19.30, Clayton’s, Oxford Road. (advisable to book your seat in advance: 01628 488404). 14: ‘French & English Gardens – Vive la difference’, a talk for the Marlow & District Horticultural Society, 19.30 for 20.00, Liston Hall. 14: ‘Demonstration of Hand. Pocket, Stand Magnifiers and CCTV Readers’, a talk for the H/W Macular Support Group, 14.00-16.00, Methodist Church Hall, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe. 14: ‘Autumn Season – Tuesday Garden tours at Cliveden, enjoy a free guided tour and find out about the latest on-goings in the gardens. First come first served so arrive early, meet outside Information Centre – 14:00-15:00, normal admission fees apply – 01628 605069. 18: ‘Countryside Workout’, join the NT ranger team whilst helping to conserve this special place, 10.00-16.00, Hughenden Manor, nr. High Wycombe. For further details: 01494 755573.(NT)

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 63

O u t & Ab o u t

18+19: ‘Apple Days’ held in Cliveden’s long-lost Round Garden which is currently being restored, taste apples, apple pressing and trails 11:00-16:00 – 01628 605069. 18+19: ‘Pumpkin Carving + Halloween Fun’ at Odds Farm Park with Madness and Mayhem from our crazy entertainers, a ghoulish Halloween trail. 19: ‘Forgotten Marlow Town’ a guided walk with The Marlow Society, 14.30, starting at Liston Hall. (No booking required, £2.50 per adult, children free). 19: ‘Music for an Autumn Afternoon’, a free concert, 15.00-15.50, All Saints’ Church. 20: ‘Boutique Cinema’, screening starts at 20.00 with a pre-feature comedy classic from 19.30, Clayton’s, Oxford Road. (advisable to book your seat in advance: 01628 488404). 21: ‘Autumn Season – Tuesday Garden tours at Cliveden, enjoy a free guided tour and find out about the latest on-goings in the gardens. First come first served so arrive early, meet outside Information Centre – 14:00-15:00,normal admission fees apply – 01628 605069. 24: ‘Kids’ Spooky Mini Disco’, DJ, entertainer, face painting and bouncy castles, 16.00-19.00, (£15pp including dinner box), Crowne Plaza Hotel, Fieldhouse Lane. To book your place: 01628 496800.(B) 25: ‘Maidenhead Zomie Walk’, meet 5pm at Maidenhead Train Station. For more information www.facebook.com/ Events. 25: Transition Town Marlow Community Market, local foods and crafts plus new free practical workshops, 09.30-13.00, Liston Hall. 25:’40 Years of ABBA’ with Gimme Abba, 19:30 Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley on Thames, RG9 2BP. Box Office 01491 575698 25-02 Nov: ‘Pumpkin Carving + Halloween Fun’ at Odds Farm Park with Madness and Mayhem from our crazy entertainers, a ghoulish Halloween trail. 26: ‘Music for an Autumn Afternoon’, a free concert featuring ‘Marta Kowalczyk (violin) and Somi Kim (piano) from the Royal Academy of Music, 15.00-15.50, All Saints’ Church. 26: ‘Bushcraft’, join an expert for lessons in nature including shelter building & fire lighting, 09.00-12.00 and

13.00-16.00, Hughenden Manor, nr. High Wycombe. Booking essential (£25pp) on: 0844 2491895. (Normal admission charges apply). (B)(NT) 27: ‘Boutique Cinema’, screening starts at 20.00 with a pre-feature comedy classic from 19.30, Clayton’s, Oxford Road. (advisable to book your seat in advance: 01628 488404). 28: ‘Autumn Season – Tuesday Garden tours at Cliveden, enjoy a free guided tour and find out about the latest on-goings in the gardens. First come first served so arrive early, meet outside Information Centre – 14:00-15:00,normal admission fees apply – 01628 605069. 29: ‘Wine Tasting’ with Marlow Wine Society. Laithwaites present wines from Australia & New Zealand in an informal atmosphere, 20.00, Pugin Rooms, St Peter’s Church, St Peter Street. For more information: 01628 482299. 30: ‘Wine Tasting Event – Louis Latour – Brilliant Burgundies’ at The Assembly Rooms, 1 Market Square, £40 includes food and wine samples – 01628 474718 – www.theassemblyroom.co.uk. 30 - 08 Nov:’The Sound of Music’ Henley Amateur Operatic Dramatic Society, 19:30 Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley on Thames, RG9 2BP. Box Office 01491 575698

NOVEMBER 01: ‘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. 01: ‘Bonfire Night Celebration’, fireworks over the lake, music and entertainment, 18.30, £10pa, £5pc, £25 (2a+2c), Crowne Plaza Hotel, Fieldhouse Lane. Pre-booking required on: 01628 496800.(B) 02: Marlow Half Marathon, starting 09.30 from Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School, West Street. For more info: www.marlowhalf.marlowstriders.co.uk 03: ‘Boutique Cinema’, screening starts at 20.00 with a pre-feature comedy classic from 19.30, Clayton’s, Oxford Road. (advisable to book your seat in advance: 01628 488404). 04: ‘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 per person, BBQ all year round!

04: ‘Stand Up Comedy’ at The Assembly Room, 1 Market Square, £5 – 01628 474718 – www.theassemblyroom.co.uk 05: ‘Club Meeting’ for The Four Seasons. At Liston Hall, 10:15, there is a bring and buy table, raffle and book stall. 08: ‘Hambleden Covered Market’, homemade cakes, cheeses, organic bread, local meat, crafts, collectables and hot food all day,10.00-15.00, Hambleden Village Hall.. 10: ‘Boutique Cinema’, screening starts at 20.00 with a pre-feature comedy classic from 19.30, Clayton’s, Oxford Road. (advisable to book your seat in advance: 01628 488404). 12: ‘The war art of Paul Nash & Stanley Spencer’, Prof Paul Gough, a talk for Stanley Spencer Gallery. Contact Maura Carr on 530181 or the Gallery 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 Maidenhead Over 30’s Disco parties, every Friday, 20:30pm - 1:00 Bird Hill

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 64 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

O u t & Ab o u t

Golf Club, Drift Road, off Hawthorn Hill SL6 3ST Maidenhead Camera Club, every Tuesday, Cox Green Community Centre, 630861 Maidenhead Archaeology society, meet last Wednesday of the month, WRVS, Maidenhead, t: 630 839 Colenorton Dragon Boat Club, Sunday 10.00 - 12.30, Bray Lake Water Sports, Maidenhead SL6 2EB - www. colenorton.co.uk

South Bucks Walking Group. Regular walks programme 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

CARE BANK commissioned by the Royal Borough of Windsor, Maidenhead and Ascot, is a new way of volunteering and being rewarded for, giving a helping hand, in Maidenhead, Windsor and Ascot. Whether it is a one–off thing or a regular arrangement, the service is free, flexible and does not require set hours or set working patterns. We are here to ensure our Elder and vulnerable people have access to something very simple such as, being a good Neighbour, a cup of tea and a chat, social and emotional support, transport help to and from hospital, help with shopping, gardening, help with moving things in the house, visiting our local hubs and making new friends. etc.. At the same time we need to Recruit a diverse group of Volunteers from all ethnic backgrounds with different skills to

Kindly sponsored by

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.

match our equally challenging list of service users .To do this and help our elderly have a better quality of life they very much deserve, we need to develop our relationship and partnerships and share our vision with different organisations, Social services and local authorities and churches. Care Bank are looking for Service Users in the Royal Borough. If you would like more information, please contact Taz Mohammed on 01628 782678 or email: taz.mohammed@ royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk

s, preheat We need you to whip out your whisk p children hel to gh your oven and raise some dou UK the oss acr in hospitals and hospices

baking pack for your Register today for your FREE charity nds and family! frie h bake sale at school, work or wit

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.

Supported by

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 65

Stars

SEPTEMBER:

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

Aries:

March 21 - April 20 This month maybe a good time to get involved with new financial projects, with Mars in Scorpio highlighting this important area of your chart prospects are good. As Mars, your ruler, changes sign on the 14th your attention turns to sorting out any unfished business that holds you back

Venus leaves your sign on the 6th, moving to organised Virgo and enabling you to focus and develop some interesting new contacts.

Taurus:

Virgo:

April 21 - May 21 Venus, your ruling planet moves from easy going Leo to more serious Virgo on the 6th. Your confidence should be flying high and you’ll enjoy any form of innovative and practical new business ventures. Your finances come into the spotlight as Mars changes sign on the 14th.

Gemini:

May 22 - June 22 Under the current trends your home and domestic situation are highlighted. You may find that you are receptive to nostalgia and memories of the past. Mercury, your ruling planet, moves in to the relationship sign of Libra on the 2nd, your romantic and social life could take a new and exciting turn.

Cancer:

June 23 - July 23 Your popularity is emphasised this month as Mars travels through passionate Scorpio, lucky you, you can expect a warm response from everyone! Mars in Sagittarius as of the 14th ensures an even more exciting pace. The Libran new moon on the 24th illuminates your home.

Leo:

July 24 - August 23 Money matters may see some improvements this month. Even when delays occur you should be able to find some excellent alternative solutions.

August 24 - September 23 As the Sun travels through your sign your powers of judgement ought to be at an all-time high. If you maximise your potential you should be able to see the culmination of an ambitious project. With Mercury highlighting your financial sector, a money making scheme should also be well favoured.

Libra:

September 24 - October 23 Energetic Mars and serious Saturn are in the financial area of your chart this month, it may be time to make a very important decision concerning your future wealth. Mercury, planet of communication, spends most of the month in your sign, you can use your charm to get exactly what you desire.

Scorpio:

October 24 - November 22 Mars has been in your sign since the end of July, this powerful energy helped you to be intensely focussed and firm when dealing with most areas of your life. There’s a much lighter feel to this month, don’t be afraid to pursue personal freedom and most importantly, have lots of fun!

Sagittarius:

November 23 - December 22 The Sun shines at the highest point of your chart this month; career matters should

The Sun is now in the industrious sign of Virgo and attention turns from holidays to education and getting back to work, with Mercury’s move into Libra on the 2nd a more balanced energy is available to all. Relationships and love affairs get a boost as the love planets Venus moves into serious and practical Virgo on the 6th. September is always the best time for reorganisation and bringing order back into our lives. Motivational Mars, still in Focused Scorpio until the 13th, offers the opportunity to get those projects well and truly off the ground. The Autumn Equinox is in the early hours of the 23rd this year and with impulsive Mars in enthusiastic Sagittarius, inspirational energy should be high and accessible to all. The full moon in Pisces is on the 9th and the new moon in Libra falls on the 24th. bring you a real sense of enjoyment. Energetic Mars moves into your sign on the 14th ensuring that your vitality and confidence are strong and robust. The new moon on the 24th brings new and exciting friendships.

Capricorn:

December 23 - January 19 Transformational Pluto is strongly placed in your sign this month, enabling you to expand your contacts in the world. You may also be very keen to broaden your horizons through travel and education. The Pisces full moon on the 9th unlocks the door for positive professional developments.

Aquarius:

January 20 - February 19 Your sense of adventure will be at a peak this month as Mercury, the planet of travel, moves to a favourable sector of your chart. This is a marvellous time for broadening you horizons, meeting new people and making exciting new contacts that will be useful in the future.

Pisces:

February 20 - March 20 The full moon in your sign on the 9th urges you to spend time in quiet meditation. Your intuitive powers are enhanced and you have the inner strength to resolve some issues from the past. After the 14th new ideas and sudden insights lead to an unexpected boost to a new endeavour.

Visit www.AlongTheThames.co.uk For how you can navigate your way to success in October. Christine Chalkin has an International client base and all her consultations are available in person, by telephone or Skype. For more information contact Christine at www.restyleyourlife.co.uk, Christine@restyleyourlife.co.uk, Telephone: 07813 483549

66 LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

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

LIVING ALONG THE THAMES | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 67

Art Class Starts Soon

ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS TO IMPROVERS WILL LOVE THIS COURSE! New Autumn C our

se! We are now ta king enquiries for our next course. This really is a fun course and a great way to meet new friends and develop new skills. Plea se call now for a ch at. Best wishes, Jacqui GREAT NEWS if you’re looking for something fun to do over the next few months! Our current class is full but we are now taking enquiries for our next part-time Art Class, which starts soon.

& sketching, Oil pastel painting and techniques, painting and blending with water colours and acrylics. Step by step tuition in the basic techniques and secrets needed to create beautiful pieces of art.

ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS TO IMPROVERS - JUST LIKE YOU!

By the end of the course, students have created a minimum of 8 pieces of their very own original art they can enjoy forever, from Beautiful Countryside Landscape Scenes to Incredible Seaside Vistas

The course is designed to be fun for Absolute Beginners who have never picked up a brush before through to Improvers.

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDANCE

We adapt to each student’s needs and give them all the guidance and help they need to develop their artistic skills. The curriculum is fun, comprehensive and interesting. Over 14 weeks we will explore 4 different media; pencil drawing

SEASIDE VISTAS

YOUNG AT HEART

This course is a brilliant way to learn new skills you will be able to enjoy forever. It is also a great way of meeting new friends and to have a fun experience you will always remember and cherish! It is open to adults of all ages.

MEET NEW FRIENDS, LEARN NEW SKILLS

This part time course is over 3 months, so will give you plenty of time to master your new hobby.

FUN EXHIBITION

The final day of the art class will be the preparation for an exhibition later that day, featuring the work created on the course.

LIMITED PLACES

To maintain a high standard to our classes and the tuition you will receive, classes are kept to small numbers – so places available are limited! We recommend that if you are interested, you call now for a chat.

For information on dates, course fees and bookings, call now on

01483 282060

Bring out your inner artist • Beginners to Intermediates

ARTCLASS

NEWCLASS ART

Part-time 14 Week Course, 3Hr Classes Once a week

TAPLOW HOUSE HOTEL, MAIDENHEAD

LIMITED SPACES - CALL NOW FOR DETAILS SA0090_14

01483 282060