Living Along The Thames September/October 2016 by Living Along theThames

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Nene Overland’s Expansion

proves to be huge success Established in 1988 Nene Overland is a family owned and operated company that has a great heritage in serving customers from their base near Peterborough for the past 28 years. Just under two years ago it expanded south with the opening of a second branch on Stafferton Way in Maidenhead, a move which helped cement its position as the UK’s largest independent Land Rover, Jeep and 4x4 specialist. Although it is very well known in Land Rover circles for its devotion to Solihull’s finest products they have always supplied, serviced and maintained all makes of 4x4 and other specialist vehicles. The move to Maidenhead coincided with the introduction of Jeeps to the growing portfolio. Nene Overland can supply and service any model from the Jeep line-up, from the uber-cool new Jeep Renegade to the classic Jeep Wrangler to the head-turning Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT. But where the company differs from other Jeep dealerships is that it can call on decades of experience modifying vehicles to build you a truly individual ride. Coupled with a huge catalogue of parts and accessories for all makes of vehicle you can drive away with a truly bespoke off-roader or every day street-cruiser.

And it’s not just car accessories that Nene Overland offers either. It stocks a full range of equipment for outdoor activities including roof-tents and Tipi-tents, 12v fridges and other equipment that will help you survive a round-the-world-trip or even just a day-trip to the coast! After-sales is also high on the list of priorities for Nene Overland too with fully kitted workshops and technicians experienced in all makes and models. Routine servicing, MOTs and other maintenance can be carried out on any age of vehicle without affecting your warranty and often more affordable than main dealer servicing. As Stafferton Way is only a short walk from Maidenhead Rail Station it is very easy to drop your car off in the morning before getting the train to London and pick it up after work the same day or you can take a courtesy car while yours is being serviced. Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

www.neneoverland.co.uk

Servicing London and the South East Land Rover and Jeep specialists since 1988 Nene Overland is the largest independent specialist in the UK. Dedication to our customers makes certain we always go that extra mile to help and give caring advice, ensuring peace of mind.

Call today to book your Land Rover or Jeep in for a service Nene Overland Telephone: 01628 671250 www.neneoverland.co.uk

Land Rover Service & Sales Maidenhead, Berkshire

Service: londonservice@neneoverland.co.uk Sales: londonsales@neneoverland.co.uk Hours: Mon - Fri 8am to 5.30pm, Sat 8.30am to 4pm (by appointment) Stafferton Way, Maidenhead, Berkshire SL6 1AY

5 Minutes from M4 and Maidenhead station â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 20 minutes from Central London

Welcome

a l on g t h e t h a m es

to September/October

It’s hard to believe that as we bask in glorious sunshine that we are starting to look towards the Autumn and Winter months and of course the countdown to, dare I say it? Christmas! As we look towards the Autumn/Winter season we focus on some of the latest fashion trends, new season beauty and hair and of course the start to the new school year. We talk exclusively to John Burton Race and Chris Sherville, from Two Grumpy Chefs as they look to fill a niche in the events market as well as Chris Wheeler, from Stoke Park, who takes part in this year’s Great British Menu for the South West Region. We visit the magical world of Helsinki in our travel feature this edition, we catch up with some of the stars of the long awaited Suicide Squad also with Jamie Blakey, interior designer to the stars at her beachside home. Congratulations to our winners from the July/August edition, Julia Stringman, who enjoyed the Windsor festival in July and to Rosie Evans who has won a fabulous pair of Yull Shoes and Dianne Miller, who has own the Nicola Metcalfe print – ‘We are UK’. We hope you enjoy this edition and look forward to catching up with you again in November as we head closer to Christmas and the colder months.

Serena Edwards Editor ADVERTISING: 01628 627 488 CONTACT US: Living Along the Thames Magazine Studio 108, 5 High Street, Maidenhead, Berks SL6 1JN Tel: 01628 627 488 Office@AlongTheThames.co.uk CONTRIBUTORS: Dru Ross, Jenny Allen, Arzu Kara, Christine Chalklin, Karine Jackson, Tom Hyland, Jacky & Mark Bloomfield & Cassie Everett ACCOUNTS: Office@AlongTheThames.co.uk DESIGNED BY: Digital Bear Design LOVE MAGAZINES?: subscribe to 6 copies for £18 a year www.VividTitles.co.uk/magazine/ View our recent editions online at: www.VIVIDTITLES.co.uk

As always Happy Reading

FOLLOW US: @AlongtheThames LIKE US: LivingAlongTheThames FOLLOW US: AlongtheThamesUK To advertise within Living Along the Thames Magazine contact us at: Office@AlongTheThames.co.uk Visit us at www.vividtitles.co.uk

9. Chris Wheeler - Great British Menu 11. Interview - Two Grumpy Chefs 22. Choosing the right secondary school 24. Six of the best back to school gadgets 28. Your Stars in September 32. Coldsore Remedies 33. Time to Tech it a bit easier 34. How to be nice to your knees 36. Travel - Helsinki 44. Interview - Suicide Squad 46. Interiors - A jean-ius at home 59. Make a head start with Autumn veg 61. Motoring - Mercedes Glc 64. Pets - Why you should brush your dog 66. Diary Dates

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Living Along the Thames is hand delivered free into 12,500 ABC1 homes every two months, including areas of high footfall in Marlow, Maidenhead, Henley, Cookham and Bourne End.

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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 is a member of the Independent Press Standards Organisation (which regulates the UK’s magazine and newspaper industry). We abide by the Editors’ Code of Practice and are committed to upholding the highest standards of journalism. If you think that we have not met those standards and want to make a complaint please contact 01628 627488. If we are unable to resolve your complaint, or if you would like more information about IPSO or the Editors’ Code, contact IPSO on 0300 123 2220 or visit www.ipso.co.uk

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

M A C D O N A L D C O M p L e At A N g L e r

AWARD-WINNING FOOD. SPECTACULAR LOCATION. Book lunch from Â£22.00 at MacdonaldHotels.co.uk/Riverside or call 0344 879 9128. Advance booking essential.

The Riverside Restaurant, Macdonald Compleat Angler, Marlow, SL7 1RG

Magniﬁcent Stoke Park Seven Best Hotel Venues to Hire in the UK – EVENT MAGAZINE

‘Ultimate 100 Best British Hotels’ THE SUNDAY TIMES

‘One of the most Beautiful Tennis Courts in the world’ THE DAILY TELEGRAPH

Winner – ‘Best 5 Star Venue’ WEDDINGDATES AWARDS

‘Britain’s Best Afternoon Tea’

Stoke Park is a luxury 5 AA Red Star Hotel, Spa and Country Club set within 300 acres of beautiful parkland and offers incredible sporting and leisure facilities. These include; 49 bedroom & suites, award winning Spa, 27 hole Championship Golf Course, 3 Restaurants & Bars including 3 AA Rosette winning Humphry’s, 13Tennis Courts (indoor, grass & artificial clay), indoor pool, state-of-the-art Gym, Studios, Crèche, Games Room and Playground. 35 minutes from London and 7 miles from London Heathrow Airport, makes Stoke Park the ideal location. For more information or to book, please contact our Reservations Team on 01753 717172 or email info@stokepark.com @StokePark /stokepark www.stokepark.com

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH

Winner – ‘ Ultimate Members Club 2015’ 59CLUB AWARDS 2015

‘ Top 5 Best UK Golf Courses’ MEN’S HEALTH

‘Top 100 Wedding Venue’ YOU ANDYOUR WEDDING

having the chance to come up with some fabulously creative ideas.’ commented Chris Wheeler. This year the series is making history by being the first TV show to be filmed in the Palace of Westminster, with the winner being given the prestigious prize of cooking at the banquet in honour of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II’s ‘Great Britons.’ In celebration of Chris’ appearance on the show, Stoke Park are delighted to launch two special packages.

The Great British Menu Dinner Party package which will allow

Stoke Park’s

Executive Chef Chris Wheeler’s Great British Menu debut! hris Wheeler, Stoke Park’s award winning Executive Chef will make his Great British Menu debut on the BBC 2 show competing in the South West region! The South West region week will start airing on Monday 5th September and Chris will be competing against Chefs Josh Eggleton and Jude Kereama. Originally from Swanage in Dorset, Chris’ passion, enthusiasm and culinary excellence was spotted and nurtured from a young age by celebrated Chef Jean Christophe-Novelli. Chris worked alongside Novelli and was his right-hand man for ten years, gaining experience and developing his passion for food. Chris joined Stoke Park in 2003 and has been building up the culinary reputation since, achieving 3 AA Rosettes for the fine-dining restaurant, Humphry’s, as well as overseeing the entire culinary operation. Chris is a familiar face on our screens having appeared on Hell’s Kitchen 2, Chefs Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is, Sunday Brunch and Saturday Kitchen, but this is the first time he will be going head-to-head with other leading chefs during a tense competition to bake the ultimate banquet. ‘ I’m really looking forward to being a part of this series of Great British Menu - it is such honour and

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

you to enjoy the exact menu Chris cooks on the show in all its theatrical glory! Not only that, you will also be able to give marks out of 10 in the same manner as they do on the show, and interact with Chris himself!

Package available from 10th September and includes:

Glass of Nyetimber English Sparkling Wine on arrival Four Course Dinner Menu as featured on Great British Menu and Private Room Hire Price: £120pp inc VAT with a maximum of 10 guests - subject to availability.

The Great British Menu Residential Package is available from 10th September until 30th December 2016 and includes:

Four Course Dinner Menu as featured on Great British Menu Glass of Nyetimber English Sparkling Wine with Dinner One night’s accommodation in a Superior Room Full English Breakfast or Continental Breakfast Complimentary use of Tennis and Health facilities £269 per person based on two sharing a Superior room, subject to availability. Standard upgrade charges apply.

Stoke Park is the perfect place to enjoy life in a friendly atmosphere. It provides a unique combination of the traditions of an exclusive members’ club and the best of today’s sporting, leisure, entertaining and hotel facilities, in one of the most convenient locations in Britain: only 35 minutes from London and 7 miles from London Heathrow. To book, please contact reservations on 01753 717172 or reservations@stokepark.com

Partners

In Wine

magine inviting a potential romantic partner round for dinner, carefully selecting the wines and then watching them wince when you suggest a glass of white, or they refuse your best red.

Chances are, one of you could be an ABC (anything but chardonnay or cabernet) or have a penchant for anything that begins with ‘pinot’ (grigio or noir). But whether you’re a serious wine lover, or happy to drink non-serious wine, a recent study suggests that couples who enjoy drinking together stand a better chance of a long and happy marriage. Researchers from the University of Michigan analysed feedback from 2,767 married couples who took part in a long-term survey and concluded that if both partners drank alcohol, they were more likely to have a happier marriage over time. The findings were published in The Journals of Gerontology Series B: Psychological Series and supports the theory that couples who do more together, tend to be more content. With this in mind, and to help you improve the chances of enjoying a bottle of wine with each other (first impressions count), here are some perfect pairs from the same winemaker for when she likes white and he likes red, or vice versa....

With Open Arms

A new release from one of the most respected producers in Australia who’s hands on with a variety of grapes, McGuigan The Borders Chardonnay 2015, South East Australia (£6.69, The Co-operative) is a fresh, upfront chard that’s flowing with juicy tropical fruit and citrus, peach and pineapple notes. While McGuigan The Borders Shiraz 2015, South East Australia (£6.69, The Co-operative) is generously fruity with plummy blackcurrant flavours, a splash of malbec for backbone and a smooth, spicy finish.

Creative Flair

With pretty labels reflecting the abundant flora and fauna of the Western Cape, Fire Flower Chenin Blanc Pinot Grigio 2015, Western Cape, South Africa (£8.49, Waitrose) is open and uplifting with chenin blanc offering a bright fruitiness and pinot grigio enlivening the palate with good acidity. Sharing the same easy drinking appeal, Fire Flower Shiraz Mourvedre 2015, Western Cape (£8.49, Waitrose) has a wealth of attractive blackberry and fruit preserves with a savoury, spicy finish and no oak influence.

Well Regarded

Both trophy winners, Luis Felipe Edwards Bin Series Sauvignon 2015, Central Valley, Chile (£8.99, Waitrose) will put the wind in your sails with its vivid aromatics and extremely refreshing passion fruit, tangerine and guava flavours with fresh grassy highlights and minerality. And for winos who can’t resist a fruity merlot, Luis Felipe Edwards Bin Series Merlot 2015 Central Valley, Chile (£8.99, Waitrose) is smooth and polished with baskets of sweet berry fruits, a sprinkle of spice and aromas of raspberries and a touch of dark chocolate from oak ageing.

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Class Act

From this top Burgundy producer comes Louis Latour Ardeche Chardonnay 2014, France (£9.99, www.henningswines.co.uk) and Louis Latour Valmoissine Pinot Noir 2013, France (currently £8.95 from £11.99, www.henningswine.co.uk) from the southerly region of France. An elegant white with green apple notes and ripe stone fruits with a pure clean finish that keeps you coming back for more, the pinot noir is smooth and silky with delightful aromas of morello cherries and herbs, with ripe soft fruits. Both make for enjoyable drinking.

Feeling Adventurous

An exciting first encounter with the native kalecik karasi grape of Turkey, it’s so versatile that in the right hands it can produce a pale rose and a ruby red. Try Kayra Beyaz Kalecik Kerasi Rose 2015, Turkey (£12.59, www.strictlywine.co.uk) which is extremely lively and marked by notes of citrus, pink grapefruit, strawberry, roses and peach, with a lovely texture to the fruit and vibrant acidity. Meanwhile, Kayra Kalecik Karasi Red 2014, Turkey (£12.39, www.strictlywine.co.uk) is a wine to swoon over with soft, sensual blackberry and cherry fruits laced in spice, and light tannins that pirouette on the palate.

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Two Chefs, Two Michelin Stars and sixty years of experience

Two Grumpy chefs!

Living Along the Thames recently caught up with a chilled John Burton-Race and Chris Sherville, who have joined forces to bring you the ultimate in in-home or event catering.From the intimate to the outrageous private dinner, wedding, launch party or sporting event by providing tailored menus, wines and support staff. What have you been up to in the last few years?

After having worked in the Thames Valley and more recently Notting Hill, I moved back to Devon to spend more time with the family.

What is the concept of Two Grumpy Chefs?

For two friends to bring their sixty years of experience together to create a unique concept where you can bring friends or colleagues together and create menus according to needs. So you can have a fine dining experience in your own home. Both Chris and I cook in your kitchen, using your facilities and your crockery etc to create a menu based on number of people, budget and the restrictions of the environment but using quality ingredients. We can bring in waiters, someliers etc but we cook in front of you and chat with you to give you that personal touch – how often would you have a Michelin Star Chef cook in front of you and your guests in an intimate setting? We want you to be the envy of your friends!

Why are you called Two Grumpy Chefs?

It came about when we were discussing the opportunities with our wives, our age and the fact we are both Chefs. They both thought we were grumpy!!

What makes Two Grumpy Chefs different to other in-home/ events catering?

Not only the personal touch but both of us have 60 years experience between us, 2 Michelin Stars the fact that we come to your venue and cook in your kitchen, it’s all completely bespoke, no event will ever be the same and if you have an open kitchen you can come in and join in the fun. Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Why did you two join forces?

We have been friends for years and are both passionate about food and Chris wanted to expand his already successful private catering business so we decided to combine our skills to bring something unique to the events market. It’s allowed us to share the responsibilities and have a good laugh at the same time. We have both been exposed to fantastic flavour’s over our lives, me (John) through my childhood travelling with my father, who was a diplomat and Chris through working as a private chef for many people such as Versace, Eric Clapton and Andrea Botchelli as well as doing many private functions at Port Eliot House in South East Cornwall. Chris and I are excited about all the new people we are meeting and just loving what we do and having fun, while doing it. Just imagine, we could take the concept onto planes and yachts or in fact anywhere, really only our imagination will hold us back! For more information: www.twogrumpychefs.com call 07792 617028

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Scallops with pea shoots, pickled vegetables and curry oil

Ingredients

Serves 4

2 scallops per person. 2 large banana shallots, cut into rounds. 100 g cauliflower, broken into small florets. 50 g chanterelle or enoki mucshrooms.

Courtesy of the ‘Two Grumpy Chefs’

50 g fresh peas A handful of peashoots. Groundnut oil. Milk

Pickling liquid of 300 ml rice wine vinegar, 100g caster sugar, 100g soft brown sugar, 1 bay leaf, 1 sprig of thyme, 10 corainder seeds, crushed, 6 black pepper corns, 1 clove of garlic, sliced. Blanch the cauliflower and peas, seperately, until just cooked, refresh in iced water. Put 100ml water, sugar and vinegar in a pan and heat until the sugar is dissolved, add the herbs and spices. Bring to the boil and simmer for 5 minutes, take off the heat, put in the vegetables and leave to cool. Warm a tsp of cumin seeds in a dry pan until fragrant. Lightly crush. Warm 2 tbsp of oil in a pan add all the the cumin seeds, except a pinch, a crushed garlic clove and ½ tbsp of curry powder. Put aside for 20 minutes to infuse, then strain through a coffee filter. Break shallots into rings, cover in milk and soak for 10 minutes, then dry on kitchen paper. Mix a tbsp of plain flour with a tsp of curry powder and the pinch of cumin seed, season and add milk to a single cream consistency. Remove coral from scallops and dry with kitchen paper.

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Curry powder Cumin seeds. Plain flour

Heat a frying pan with a film of oil until shimmering. Dip the shallot rings in batter and drop into a deep fryer at 180oC or a saucepan with an inch of oil that is hot enough to brown a piece of bread in less than a minute. Fry until crispy and then drain on kitcehn paper. Season the scallops and cook for just less than a minute on each side then drain on kitchen paper. Place two scallops on each plate, top with a couple of shallot rings, add drained pickled vegetables and drizzle the curry oil around the plate and top with a couple of sprigs of peashoot.

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Luxury Interior Décor/Trees

Festive Doorways

Contact Dave Hill 01753 260008 dave.hill@thechristmasdecorators.com www.thechristmasdecorators.com @christmasberks Specialist Christmas Decorating Service Residential and Commercial

Spectacular Exterior Lighting

Serving the Thames Valley

A visit to Cliveden is not complete without a stroll around the impressive National Trust estate. A nominal charge of £2.00 per person for dinner will be added to your account and passed on to the National Trust. Available Monday - Thursday, subject to availability.

CREATE your MOMENT in HISTORY EVENING THREE COURSE MARKET MENU £55.00 per person

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Taplow, Berkshire, SL6 0JF Tel: 01628 607107 reservations@clivedenhouse.co.uk www.clivedenhouse.co.uk

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CHRISTMAS IS MORE THAN THE TURKEY... IT’S ABOUT ENTERTAINING FAMILY & FRIENDS

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

We pride ourselves on supplying you the best Roasting Joints: Beef, Pork & Gammon Mince & Stewing meat for heart warming Suppers Game & Turkey to Order

We supply various cuts of meat to Your local ‘Country Store’ in Cookham. ‘Londis’ in Oaktree Avenue, Marlow and ‘Budgens’ in Maidenhead call

01628 488 373

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

Your 2nd main course FREE Bianco Nero Ristorante Italiano | Glynwood House | Bridge Avenue Maidenhead | Berkshire, SL6 1RS

01628 636137

www.bianco-nero.co.uk info@bianco-nero.co.uk

Buy 1 main course and get the 2nd free. Each voucher is valid for up to 4 people and can only be used on the main menu. The voucher cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers. Offer expires 30/10/16. Please book in advance either by phone or through our website mentioning the offer. The voucher must be presented to a member of staff on request of the bill.

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

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Local performing arts school is expanding Stagecoach

Henley, High Wycombe and Marlow is looking for students aged 4 to 18 years who love to sing, dance and act to join them for their new term in September. Principal Clare Gosling reflects on what an amazing year it’s been. She has just come back from performing in France, where 111 of her Stagecoach students and families have been singing and dancing the dream at Disneyland Paris! She is also celebrating an important anniversary: “This coming year will see my 10th year as principal, with 20 years of High Wycombe Stagecoach, and 30 years since the franchise was born, which means 2017 will be the biggest year at Stagecoach yet!

hugely successful PAA exams; Performance opportunities at Her Majesty’s Theatre, London; Opportunities at Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Plus their 10 year Spectacular anniversary show at the Wycombe Swan.

The school has a new mid-week classes in central High Wycombe for 4-10 years and a new Further Stages class for 14-18 years in Henley meeting every Saturday morning, 10am-1pm.

For more information or to book your place on our Discovery Days please contact Principal Clare Gosling. Marlow Friday 16th September 2016: 16:30 - 18:00 Henley Saturday 17th September 2016: 11:15 - 12:45 High Wycombe Wednesday 21st September: 16:30 - 18:00

Other highlights for the coming year include: Regional Performance at Wycombe Swan with 18 students performing; The

Call Principal Clare on 01494 533203 or email henleyandmarlow@stagecoach.co.uk; www.stagecoach.co.uk/henleyandmarlow

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Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

BE GOOD AT BEING YOURSELF

ASK ABOUT OUR TWO WEEK TRIAL

Unlock your child’s potential with Stagecoach Performing Arts Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year olds, where students learn to embrace life with creativity and courage

stagecoach.co.uk/highwycombe highwycombe@stagecoach.co.uk 01494 533203

BOOK A PLACE ON OUR SEPT DISCOVERY DAYS

™

Creative Courage For Life

Stagecoach Theatre Arts Schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach is a registered trademark of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Ltd.

Find out more today:

Back to School With Rush! es, it’s the end of the Summer and that dreaded time of year to get back to school, college or university, so the Rush team have come up with some exciting new activities and events to look forward to, to help you overcome the post summer blues!

on Friday October 29th from 9-11pm and will be a spooktastic Halloween party!

New After School Timetable!

To soften the blow of returning to school, we have a fantastic range of After-School coaching classes available for all ages, even toddlers! We have a brand new Toddler Tumble class, so your little ones can discover their love for Tumbling even sooner!

It’s The Return Of Rush After Dark!

As of October 1st, when those dreaded winter nights are drawing in, we’re excited to welcome you all back for our legendary After Dark Disco Sessions! Our resident DJ, DJ Fresh will be spinning the latest tunes alongside two hours of bouncing fun under our funky UV lights show. We run two sessions every Saturday evening, from 7-9pm for 10 and overs and from 9-11pm for teenagers upwards. Tickets cost £15 per 2hr session and it is recommended to book in advance as we can get very busy. Now, we know that you adults secretly love to bounce at Rush too, so we have an extra special treat installed for you – our new Rush After Dark 18+ nights. These are themed nights exclusively for adults to enjoy Rush without the kids, with a bar and a top DJ spinning all of your favourite tunes. Our first 18 + After Dark will be held on Friday September 30th from 9-11pm and will be a special ‘Singles’ night. So, if you’re single and fancy coming along with a group of friends, who knows who you might meet! Our second 18+ After Dark will be held

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Adult Fitness classes just got even better with the introduction of more studio based fitness classes including Spinning, Yoga and Pilates...

Our Freestyle, Trampolining and Tumble classes are perfect for those who want to look cool, and stay in control on our trampolines. Get the kids to come along to these classes and they will learn skills to impress their friends with various tricks and flips that will make their friends green with envy!

The New Studios At Rush!

Adult Fitness classes just got even better with the introduction of more studio based fitness classes including Spinning, Yoga and Pilates, in our newly refurbished studios, which are NOT on the trampolines! There really is something for everybody, so come to Rush to help reach all of your fitness goals. Our classes run throughout the week, alongside our fantastic Toddler Crèche sessions – so you can get fit whilst your Toddler is having fun in a fully supervised session. Make sure you are keeping an eye on our Website and Social Media pages for all of our official, must know news! www.rushuk.com www.facebook.com/RushUKTrampolinePark/ Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Back To School With Rush! AFTER SCHOOL TUMBLING, TRAMPOLINING AND FREESTYLE COACHING NEW TIMETABLE STARTS SEPTEMBER 12TH RUSH AFTER DARK RETURNS! 7-9PM FOR 10 AND OVERS; 9-11PM FOR 13 AND OVERS

GET FIT AT RUSH! CHECKOUT OUR ADULT FITNESS TIMETABLE FEATURING HIGH INTENSITY TRAMPOLINE FITNESS SESSIONS AND NEW CLASSES INCLUDING SPINNING, PILATES & YOGA TODDLER CRECHE BRING ALONG YOUR TODDLER TO BE SUPERVISED IN OUR NEW TODDLER CRECHE AND TODDLER MAYHEM SESSIONS

NINJA WARRIOR COURSE ITS COMING VERY SOON SO WATCH THIS SPACE!!! Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

jump@rushuk.com 01494 412731 www.rushuk.com 19 |

The Henley College

he transition from school to employment or university is a vital time for young people as they start to specialise and realise their full potential. Recently rated â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Goodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; by Ofsted, a sixth-form college like Henley provides a challenging, motivating and supportive environment where students can achieve their academic and vocational goals, try new experiences and meet lots of like-minded people.

With over 60 high-achieving A Level and vocational diploma courses, Apprenticeships and Traineeships to choose from, there are many opportunities for students to find their place at The Henley College. We welcome students from more than 100 schools across Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and Oxfordshire into our diverse and exciting College community. We guide students into choosing the route that is right for them and empower each individual to achieve the highest success possible. We are proud to offer a broad and diverse choice of courses at Henley and there are many courses available that do not require the student to have previously studied the subject. These include Forensic Science, Business Studies, Psychology, Law and Economics. We also have many exciting extracurricular activities available that enhance and enrich student life at Henley, as well as encourage and develop new skills and interests. These range from general interest courses like debating or public speaking, to elite sports teams in rugby union, basketball and rowing. Supporting students to strive for excellence is something all the specialist staff are firmly committed to and incredibly passionate about. In August, the College

celebrated a 98% A Level pass rate with high grades showing an improvement of 3% on last year. Overall 74% of A Level grades were at A*-C and a remarkable 30 different A Level subjects achieved 100% pass rates. The College has also seen its outstanding record of BTEC results continue to improve with more than 80% achieving high grades. As well as a strong academic provision, our students benefit from supportive Personal Tutors and a caring, professional Student Services team who offer guidance and help with most aspects of College life. Our Upgrade team provide a wide range of specialist support for students with identified learning support needs or a disability, as well as those who just need a helping hand with revision, essay writing or organisation. The Henley College is situated close to the centre of Henleyon-Thames, a beautiful riverside town with good

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transport links. Facilities are spread over two closely linked campuses and include a dedicated Library, newly refurbished refectory space, Student Learning Centres and a state-of-the-art Sports Hall. Come and visit us to find out more. Visit www.henleycol.ac.uk for further information about our wide range of courses and for details about upcoming Information Events and College Tours.

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

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Choosing the right secondary school By Tom Hyland

Choosing the right secondary school for your child is an extremely tough and unenviable task. This will be one of the most important places in their life and it’s crucial you pick wisely. There are so many factors to consider when coming to a decision. OFSTED Report

A good way to get an idea of how a school is performing is to view its OFSTED report (this can be done easily online). This will tell you about the school’s results and the progress children make there. However, it’s vital to recognize that OFSTED reports in no way reveal the full picture of a school.

extra-curricular activities on offer? Is there a good learning environment? Also, keep a close eye on the small things like how the staff interact with the children and any conversations you may have with the students. Remember, if your child attends the school, they could end up like them!

Gut feeling

This is sometimes overlooked by people, as they feel obliged to choose schools solely on data and buildings - it is so much more than that. Almost immediately, you will get a “feel” for a place. Put yourself in your child’s shoes and ask “could I imagine going to this school?”. If it doesn’t feel right, consult with your child and see if they had the same feeling.

In-session visit

Although an open-evening offers schools the chance to showcase their work and talent, it’s perhaps more useful to visit on an ordinary, run-of-the-mill day. Be observant on your visit and ask plenty of questions. Look at the facilities available. Is there a good range of

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Getting there

A factor many parents overlook is the difficulties of getting children to and from school. This can be an extremely stressful process for both parents and children and can cause many issues. Ideally, it is better to live as close to the school as possible. This frees up more time for you and them and allows for greater flexibility throughout the many different things they will be doing at secondary school. It can also be problematic if children are located far away from their friends and may leave them feeling isolated in the holidays. By all means, if the perfect school is a little far away, just be aware of the potential pitfalls.

Word of mouth

Visit a few schools

Make sure you visit a few schools in order to compare and look at how different styles work. It’s important to work out what things you and your child liked about certain schools and things you perhaps didn’t like. As a guideline, try and view at least three schools if possible.

plan clearly what they want from a secondary school before they visit and see how schools match up to those thoughts.

Child’s view

It is crucial that you involve children in the decision-making process. This is, after all, the place where they will be going, not you. As long as you encourage them to be open-minded and honest about their decisions, they will usually make sensible choices. It is important to also be aware though, that children can also make decisions based on things such as which school their friends are going to and from being “wowed” at a flashy open-day. Get them to

Hearing things on the “grapevine” tends to be the most accurate and fast-moving “litmus test” on a school. If you hear nothing but good things about a school, it can only be a positive sign. However, if the word is constantly negative, seriously consider your options. Speak to parents of children with older siblings at secondary schools, who will be able to keep you updated with the latest happenings.

Headteacher

This is perhaps one of the most important aspects to consider when choosing a school. The head is individual who sets the whole tone of the school. The key decisions come down to them and they are the ones who decide which direction the school takes.

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Godstowe Godstowe

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Didyou youknow knowthat thatGodstowe Godstowehas hasa anursery nurserytoo? too?“Little “Little Did Godstowe” is a termly nursery for boys and girls aged 3 Godstowe” is a termly nursery for boys and girls aged 3 toto4.4. Thenursery nurseryoffers offersmorning morningsessions sessionsand andfull fulldays. days. The

Formore moreinformation informationabout aboutthe thenursery, nursery, For schoolororour ourOpen OpenDays, Days,please pleasecontact contactthe the school Registrar, Cathy Gainer, by telephoning 01494 Registrar, Cathy Gainer, by telephoning 01494 429006 Thames oremailing emailing registrar@godstowe.org Living 429006 Along Theor | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016 registrar@godstowe.org

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6 Of The Best Back To School Gadgets Right on time

has a just-hot-water function for tea lovers, too). You can even earn some brownie points making one for your other half, as it brews two at the same time.

Watch This Space Watch, £13, Smiggle (www.smiggle.co.uk) Once they’ve mastered how to tell the time, children may find themselves obsessed with stationery emporium Smiggle. This cool, rubber watch reveals a digital clock every time you press it, which should help keep them on time. Available in pink, blue, green, purple or black, it’s a must-have for the new school term, and makes a perfect party present too.

Look sharp Maxi Graphic Electric Sharpener, £13, Smiggle (www.smiggle.co.uk)

Pen of plenty Olixar HexStyli 6-in-1 Stylus, £9.99 (reduced from £14.99), Mobile Fun (www.mobilefun.co.uk) This pen is like a Bond gadget. Yes, it’s a pen, but it’s also a stylus for their tablet and a ruler. Plus, once they’re old enough to be getting a little bit handy around the house, they can utilise the genius inclusion of a spirit level, as well as the double headed screwdriver, so you’ll never need to search for the Phillips again!

Bright spark Wacom Bamboo Spark Smart Folio With Gadget Pocket, £79.99, Amazon (www.amazon.co.uk) For creative types who like to doodle their ideas, the Bamboo Spark is a brilliant invention. The Smart Folio contains a notepad and, once you’ve sketched out ideas or written the perfect start to a story, you can save and store it all in a cloud at the touch of a button even converting handwriting into text.

Caffeine fix De’Longhi ECP31.21 Pump Espresso Coffee Machine, £114.39 (reduced from £139.99), Argos (www.argos.co.uk) Not strictly for the ones going back to school, but after a leisurely few weeks of summer holidays, resurrecting the school drop-off routine can be something of a challenge. Worry not - a morning espresso is exactly what you need to get going (and this one

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Gone are the days when preparing your pencil case for the new school term gives you blisters on your hands. All hail Smiggle’s electric pencil sharpener, with two different-sized holes, for smaller and larger pencils. Load it up with batteries (you’ll need four AAs) and off you go. [http://www.smiggle.co.uk/shop/en/ smiggleuk/maxi-graphic-electricsharpener]

Don’t be a loser Tile (Gen 2), £19.99, Very (www.very.co.uk) Anyone with children old enough to own their own key should not start the new term without a Tile. Attach the discreet tracker to their keys (or anything else you don’t want them to lose!) and the location can easily be found via an app on a smartphone or tablet. Also very handy for checking they’re where they say they are once the teenage years set in! Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Tips Top

Karine Jackson says “Can you believe we’re almost in the last stretch of the year? It’s been a very exciting year for me and the salon, I’ve been shortlisted for London Hairdresser of the year in the British Hairdressing Awards with my latest collections. This edition I’m sharing my top tips with you for the season, and how to make the most of your hair.”

Book early

Don’t leave it too late to get your appointment in December, most salons are fully booked during this season so avoid disappointment and get your appointments scheduled in now. Stocking fillers and stylist gifts Whilst you’re having your appointment, take time to have a look at the fabulous products on offer in the salon. Luxury salon brands create gift sets for Christmas that make the perfect stocking filler or Secret Santa gift for those that might be more difficult to shop for. Ask your stylist for their recommendations as they’ve been fully trained in all of their products, so can help you with this. Some salons also offer a gift-wrapping service with products so it’s always worth asking to save yourself some time. For those looking for something a little bigger, have a look at your salon’s electrical tools in their retail section for straighteners, tongs and hairdryers.

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Winter-targeted treats

It’s really crucial to look after your hair and body in the festive season-people are working harder at this time of year (and partying even harder!). This takes it’s toll on our skin, nails and hair, so indulge in a intensive hair treatment or a facial to get your skin and hair back in optimum condition. In our salon we launch a Winter Warmer’s facial in the A/W – it helps lift the muscles in the face, cleanse the pores and have your skin glowing for the party season – no matter how many mulled wines you indulge in!

Rid yourself of the January Blues

As most salons are quieter post-Christmas, you’ll often receive a discounted service or a free treatment if you book it in during the festive season. Save yourself some money by booking in early. www.karinejackson.co.uk

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in September 2016 Aquarius: January 20 - February 19

This month brings innovative new projects and exciting new people into your circle. Communication is highlighted and you are able to get your ideas across to others while expanding your contacts with the world. Jupiter entering Libra on the 9th pushes for successful group endeavours.

Pisces: February 20 - March 20

This month begins with a powerful Virgo new moon and turns your attention to your relationships and partnerships. Jupiter’s move into Libra on the 9th helps you to take stock of your true feelings, bringing you really want in all areas of life into sharp focus.

Aries: March 21 - April 20

Creating firm foundations on which to build your future is the main energy for you this month. Expansive Jupiter and communicative Mercury are assisted by the Virgo new moon on the 1st. Make sure that you pay attention to any professional opportunities that come your way.

Taurus: April 21 - May 21

The time is fast approaching for you to be open and honest about your goals and ambitions. Venus, your ruler illuminates important work issues and abundant Jupiter moving into Libra on the 9th shows that building firm foundations for your financial future are now your main concern.

Gemini: May 22 - June 22

September brings love and romance into the spotlight; Venus is in a favourable position and as abundant Jupiter moves into Libra on the 9th anything can happen! Mercury, your ruler, returns to direct motion after the 22nd, tensions and conflicts start to ease as important breakthroughs come to the surface.

Cancer: June 23 - July 23

The communication sector of your chart is in the spotlight for September. The Virgo new moon on the 1st helps you to see your situation, and your options more clearly. This is the perfect time to stand back and see the bigger picture by trusting your intuition to bring greater rewards your way.

Leo: July 24 - August 23

Love and romance are your main focus during September, as serious Saturn and dynamic Mars highlight this area of your chart. Don’t be afraid to break free from a situation that you find restrictive. Mighty Jupiter’s move to Libra on the 9th allows you to see things in a different light.

As the Autumnal Sun moves through the more serious sign of Virgo our attention returns to learning and acquiring new skills; schools and colleges start their new term and focus on serious study. Energetic Mars is lively and enthusiastic in fiery Sagittarius and brings grand ideas and vision to the surface. Jupiter, the planet of abundance and optimism leaves the sign of Virgo on the 9th after a one year stay; Jupiter will then remain in the sign of Libra until October 2017. Balancing the scales of justice should be a major theme during this time. Relationships and partnerships are favoured as Venus, the planet of love and romance, remains in Libra until the 24th.

Visit www.VividTitles.co.uk to see how you can navigate your way to success in October

Virgo: August 24 - September 23

Jupiter, the planet of abundance and optimism, has been in your sign for a whole year, hopefully with positive results. Plans and solid foundations for your financial future are ready to be laid down now, particularly after the 9th as expansive Jupiter moves on into Libra for a one year stay.

Libra: September 24 - October 23

Abundant Jupiter enters your sign on the 9th for a ‘lucky’ one year stay. You will have learnt many things during the last year and now you can reap the rewards with a stronger sense of purpose and clarity. Venus, your ruler, remains in your sign until the 24th.

Scorpio: October 24 - November 22

September heralds a new beginning as optimistic Jupiter arrives in the most introspective part of your chart for a one year stay. Your gift of intuition will become more powerful as you begin to trust your judgement, increase your confidence and go after what you want.

Sagittarius: November 23 - December 22

Your goals and ambitions are the focus for this month. The Virgo new moon on the 1st sets the pace for new areas of development and as mighty Jupiter, your ruling planet, moves into Libra on the 9th you realise the need for better understanding and open communication.

Capricorn: December 23 - January 19

September brings plenty of planetary action to the travel and adventure sector of your chart. The new moon on the 1st signals new beginnings as you prepare for a fresh and more positive phase of existence, drawing original and interesting people into your circle.

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Tune into positive and productive planetary cycles and become more successful in life and in business. Christine Chalklin has an international client base and all her consultations are available in person by telephone or Skype. Christine Chalklin www.restyleyourlife.co.uk Christine@restyleyourlife.co.uk Telephone: 07813 483549

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Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

News Wellbeing

Summer has inspired a third of British diners to eat more healthily While winter’s associated with over-indulgence and extra padding (well it helps us keep warm!), for many, summer’s all about lighter meals and

being a bit more streamlined - and a third of Brits (33%) say they’ve been more nutritionally savvy this summer. According to the survey by Bookatable.co.uk, 35% also claimed to make healthier choices when dining out during the warmer months. They even have restaurant ‘hacks’ for achieving this, which include: avoiding rich or heavy food (36%), skipping the starter or dessert (28%), drinking only water instead of alcohol (23%), keeping away from the bread basket (23%), swapping chips for veg or side salad (18%), and ditching dressings (17%). The poll also found that one in five (18%) are following eating regimes, including vegetarian, flexitarian, raw food and paleo eating plans.

Yoga Studio in Bourne End Hatha Yoga combined with other traditions including Ashtanga Vinyasa. Over 55’s/senior classes are also available. The studio is available for hire when not being used for yoga classes. For more information on location, studio classes, private classes, or studio hire please contact Gabriella (member of the Register of Exercise Professionals).

Tel. 07828 148657 Email: gabriellap100@hotmail.com Web: www.gmyoga.co.uk

Have Fun, Make New Friends, Get Fit And Relax

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

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Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Tel: 01628 635198

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Coldsore remedies he evenings are a time when weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re out and about enjoying time with friends. However for some people unsightly coldsores are enough to prevent people from enjoying themselves. As a homeopath I love to help people with their skin problems and recurring cold sores are one of my favourite things to treat. Most people have been exposed to the virus by the time they are five years old and build up a natural immunity so that they never produce cold sores. Cold sores are often hereditary, Most people with recurring cold sores tell me that one of their parents is prone to them too. There is little danger that the skin tissue will scar, except in severe cases. However, it is important to touch the sores as little as possible, as touching may cause them to spread. The cold sore virus is easy to catch and once it is in the body, it lies dormant, resurfacing typically during times of stress. The virus is spread from person to person by contact with fluid from a cold sore, saliva, contact with an item that has the germs on it, or sharing food or drinks with an infected person. The blisters and open sores can spread the virus until they heal. My first line approach is to use remedies to strengthen the immunity. I also use remedies to weaken the herpes virus that lies dormant in the body. I combine this with an effective remedy to take at the first sign of a cold sore and find that this helps to break the recurring cold sore cycle very quickly. Please see below a list of homeopathic remedies you could try to take for your cold sores:

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Topically Calendula Ointment This keeps the skin or lips moisturized and speeds up healing. The main two homeopathic remedies are:

1. Natrum muriaticum 30c

This remedy sometimes stops a herpes outbreak if taken in the early, tingling stage. It is also helpful for raw, red cold sores that develop on the lips and corners of the mouth, as well as the nostril area, face, and chin. Eruptions may also appear in the genital area. Eating too much salt (which the person craves) and being in the sun sometimes aggravates the symptoms.

2. Rhus toxicodendron 30c

This relieves small vesicles filled with a clear liquid which are often red and painful. Other Remedies include:

3.Apis mellifica 30c

This remedy relieves swollen, itching, burning skin or lips, relieved by cold applications.

4. Arsenicum album 30c

Eruptions with burning pain relieved by applying heat suggest a need for this remedy. The person may feel anxious, restless, chilly, and exhausted.

5. Borax 30c

This remedy can be useful for herpes eruptions in any area, with tense-feeling inflammation. Sensitivity to noise and a fear of falling are other indications for Borax.

6. Graphites 30c

Herpes eruptions, with oozing of honey-like discharge and crusting and cracking of the skin, suggest a need for this remedy. The person may tend toward many problems with the skin, be stout, and have trouble concentrating.

7. Hepar Sulph

Herpes sores that are very sensitive to touch and worse from any form of cold suggest a need for this remedy. A person who needs Hepar sulph is extremely sensitive to cold, and often has a low resistance to infection.

8. Mercurius solubilis

This remedy may be indicated for sore, infected eruptionsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;especially if the person has swollen lymph nodes and offensive breath, is extremely sensitive to temperatures, and tends to sweat at night. Select the remedy that most closely matches your cold sore symptoms and take the remedy twice daily for 7 days or until the symptoms improve. Cassie Everett - www.absolutehomeopathy.co.uk Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Time To Tech It A Bit Easier? Eyes And Vision

Our screen-time’s increased by 42% in the past five years, according to healthcare brand Bausch + Lomb, with the average Brit spending seven hours a day staring at a screen - and it’s taking its toll on our eyes. A key factor is dryness; we tend to blink far less when gazing at screens, which means missing out on essential lubrication provided by eyelids swiping over the eyes. ‘Digital Eye Strain’ is now a recognised condition, causing symptoms like blurred vision, tired, strained, irritated eyes and headaches. “Viewing a computer or digital screen often makes eyes work harder [and is] different from reading a printed page,” highlights the American Optometric Association. It can be particularly troublesome for contact lens wearers, and while there’s no solid evidence of major threat to long-term vision, there is a risk of chronic dry eye syndrome and sometimes inflammation. FIX IT: Follow the 20: 20: 20 rule every 20 minutes, shift your eyes to look at an object 20ft away, for at least 20 seconds. Let your eyes relax and do some extra blinking. Regular eye check-ups are also important, and seek advice from an eye care professional if dryness and strain becomes problematic.

Shoulders And Arms

Recent decades have seen sharp rises in RSI - which describes a range of symptoms linked with over or repetitive use of a particular part of the body, characterised by pain in the muscles, nerves and tendons - and working at a computer’s often responsible. “It’s commonly caused by typing or using the mouse,” says Laura Harman, senior physiotherapist at Boost Physio (boostphysio.com). “It usually affects the upper limbs, neck and upper back.”

ensure you’re sat well and using appropriate technique for repetitive movements (employers should provide desk assessments). Pilates and yoga can be beneficial, along with regular stretching, and seek professional advice if symptoms persist.

Fingers And Thumbs

“Texting and gaming on smartphones can cause overuse injuries to the tendons and muscles of the thumb and fingers due to the constant flexing movements. Overdoing these movements can cause inflammation and potentially lead to tendinitis or ‘trigger finger/thumb’,” says Harman. FIX IT: Think about how and why you’re using your devices - if you enjoy playing games, be sensible with the amount of time you’re spending doing it. Or are you just in the habit of mindlessly picking it up to fill every quiet moment? Harman suggests interchanging typing with thumbs and fingers, regular stretches to open up the palm and digits, consider voice activation/messaging for longer emails and texts and have at least one full tech-free hour a day. If things do get bad, seek professional advice; physio exercises and massage may help loosen tight muscles.

Neck And Head

‘Tech neck’ or ‘text neck’ is real. “Spending hours looking down at a computer or phone can lead to neck and shoulder pain, plus stiffness and headaches,” says Harman. “Our bodies our designed to work in a certain way in order to be efficient and pain-free. When you look down for prolonged periods, you create a muscle imbalance. Some muscles become overstretched, while others tighten up and feel overworked. This can lead to the formation of trigger points (‘knots’) and therefore pain.” FIX IT: Bring the screen to eye level. Also, Harman suggests setting 20-minute reminders to look up and perform some simple neck stretches: rolling shoulders, turning to look over each shoulder, tilting the ear to each shoulder and tucking your chin in. Pilates will help improve your posture and strength in this area.

Lower Back

According to RSI Action, some 4.7 million UK work days were lost due to RSI in 2003-2004, and figures may be even higher now.

Work in an office? Chances are, aches and strains in the lower back are a common complaint. Harman says it is “difficult to say how sitting at a desk for hours each day will affect individuals in the long-term” - however we know “sitting for prolonged periods will create muscle imbalances which, if left unaddressed, can lead to pain and stiffness”. Additionally, sitting in a slumped posture is known to put more pressure on your discs in the lower back and neck.

FIX IT: Harman highlights there are things we can do to prevent and help manage RSI. Take regular desk breaks, keep your posture in check and

FIX IT: Desk breaks are vital - Harman suggests setting a reminder for every 30 minutes. Stand up, change position, have a stretch (maybe do a tea round?!). Again, Pilates and yoga are a great preventative measure for desk workers. Be mindful of your posture and desk set-up, and seek professional advice if aches and pains persist.

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

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How To Be Nice To Your Knees s Baz Luhrmann told us in his 1999 song, Sunscreen: “Be kind to your knees, you’ll miss them when they’re gone.”

supports the findings and says: “On a daily basis our team work with several patients who have knee problems, who are trying to avoid knee surgery. Over the last 10 years, I have noticed the trend that knee surgeons here in London are more frequently referring patients with degenerative meniscal tears for physiotherapy exercise therapy, rather than surgery, in the first instance.” Some two million people around the world have surgery called knee arthoscopy every year to heal meniscal tears, damage to the crescent-shaped cartilage that cushions the knee joint. But, according to researchers in Norway, exercise might be just as good at healing these injuries as surgery. They looked at 140 people whose average age was 50, one half of whom had arthroscopic surgery for degenerative meniscal tears and half who had exercise sessions for three months, followed by simple daily exercises at home. After two years, the research team, led by Nina Jullum Kise, an orthopedic surgeon at Martina Hansens Hospital, found that knee-related quality of life for both groups was the same - and concluded that exercise therapy be given to middle-aged people suffering with meniscal tears. Steven Berkman, chartered physiotherapist and director of BOOST PHYSIO (www.boostphysio.com),

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The Expert View

Berkman says accurate diagnosis is key to knowing exactly what type of knee problem a physiotherapist is dealing with.

3 EXERCISES FOR YOUR KNEES Berkman recommends doing the following exercises if you have knee problems and says: “These exercises should be comfortable, if not seek guidance from a physiotherapist.” 1. Cycling: In the early phase of rehabilitation, cycling is an excellent exercise as it strengthens the quadriceps and hamstring muscles that support the knee joint, without placing too much pressure on the load-bearing surface of the cartilage that’s been torn. Cycling is excellent with helping to improve flexibility in the knee joint.

“Certain meniscal tears can block the normal movement of the knee joint and can cause further damage to the knee joint if not dealt with properly. Some of these cases will require surgery to prevent further damage or future deterioration of the knee joint. But the vast majority of our patients want to avoid surgery if they can get as good an outcome, or better through exercise.

2. Inner range quadriceps: Sitting on the side of the bed with the affected leg straight out along the bed, make the knee as straight as possible, pushing the back of the knee down into the bed - you should be able to raise your heel of your foot off the bed while keeping the back of your knee down on the bed. Hold for 5 seconds, 20 times. Repeat as above, with the addition of turning your foot and knee outwards slightly so as to engage the Vastus Medialis (part of the quadricep muscle of the thigh).

“Knee pain or injury causes the knee muscles to switch off from working fully, these muscles should be supporting and protecting the knee joint. When these muscles stop doing their job properly the knee joint and menisci take even more pressure and stress. Getting the muscles surrounding the knee joint switched back on and firing correctly is key to successful recovery, as is regaining full flexibility in the knee joint and muscles.”

3. Sit to Stand: Sitting on a chair with knees and hips aligned, squeeze a small ball between the knees with about 50% of your maximum power, to engage the muscles on the inside of the knees and thighs. Maintaining the squeeze, come to a standing position in a controlled manner, sharing weight equally between the painful knee and the unaffected knee. Maintaining the squeeze on the ball between the knees, slowly sit back down. Do 2 sets of 10.

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Great Golfing & Driving Range

ird Hills Golf Centre is located in Berkshireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s picturesque countryside between Maidenhead and Bracknell. The 18 Hole Par 72 golf course is around 6200 yards in length and has been carefully designed to provide an enjoyable round of golf for every level of golfer with open fairways, water hazards and well placed bunkers. Daily green fees are available for all golfers as well as membership packages including Handicap, 7-day, 5-day and Juniors. There is a 34 bay floodlit Driving Range and practice bunker which is open from first light until late daily along with a large 9-hole putting green. Bird Hills Golf Academy runs an extensive timetable of expert tuition throughout the week and holiday clubs for juniors. On the premises is an

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

American Golf Retail store which stocks all major brands and operates a superb club fitting service. The Clubhouse has a large sunny terrace which overlooks the golf course and is open from 8.00am until late seven days a week. Visitors and members will be warmly greeted and looked after by the Bird Hills Team.

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Helsinki Turning Up The Heat In

Nuuksio National Park

For a population so adeptly conditioned to cold weather, Finns are surprisingly good at taking the heat. Tossing a large ladle of water over hot coals, a glistening, tattooed Nordic grins gleefully as our dark, charcoal-stained smoke sauna transforms into an angry furnace. As steam singes my nostrils and beads of sweat form rivulets in every fleshy fold, I bolt for the door and wonder if Brit basting is all part of the entertainment. There are 3.3 million saunas in Finland, more than one for every other person, but the majority are private. Helsinki’s new Loyly (a term used to describe the steam that rises when you throw water on the sauna’s rocks) represents a return to public, social spaces. The wooden, steep sloped structure, with a seaside bar terrace and open-air rooftop lounge, is also part of the Helsinki’s drive to embrace outdoor spaces and bask in the long, warm days of short but sweet summers. Elsewhere, a car park has been transformed into a pool complex

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and a new law has been passed allowing businesses to turn parking spaces outside buildings into temporary summer terraces. Subsequently, an apparently quiet capital is now outwardly effervescing with life. Thankfully, I prevent my own blood bubbling so vigorously by retreating to Loyly’s second, more sedate sauna, where horizontal pine slats act like Venetian blinds, revealing near naked bodies descending a step ladder into the sea. Closer to town, next to the port and fried fish stalls of Market Square, the Helsinki Allas Pool is due to fully open later this month. Local residents and tourists are already making use of the dockside terrace, where filtered salt and fresh water swimming pools will be suspended in the harbour next to segregated saunas. The idea for the complex, Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

previously a tarmac car park, was first touted 10 years ago and has been partly financed by crowdfunding. Although paddling in the shadow of cruise liners is off-putting, the central location will no doubt prove popular, and owners plan to have a reserve of rentable swimwear for spontaneous sauna goers. Along with cruise ships, sightseeing ferries servicing Helsinki’s archipelago also leave from the port. Newly opened to the public this year is Vallisaari island, a 20-minute journey away. Once occupied by Russia and later used as a military base, it’s now a nature refuge. I follow gently rising trails to lookout points and watch

tour companies currently use them in nearby Nuuksio National Park.

Sea at Loyly Sauna

Dominated by forest-covered valleys and deep rocky gorges, the park, which is a 45-minute drive from Helsinki, is busy with campers on a hot weekend in July. According to the traditional Finnish legal concept of Everyman’s Right, general public have the right to roam freely through wilderness areas. Only campfire sites are restricted, although stores of free firewood make them appealingly convenient to use. We hike alongside sparkling, tree-lined lakes filled with lilies, clambering over mosscovered granite boulders in the dark forest canopy, as shards of light skip across

The Ferry to Vallisaari Island in Helsinki Archipelago sailing boats weave through islands, etching spirals on a duck egg blue watery canvas. Strict regulations govern Vallisaari, which is off limits from 10pm to 6am, although there is talk of opening a Tentsile hotel on the island next year. The gravity defying, British-made Tentsile Tree Tents, which appear to levitate above ground and are suspended between three trees, have developed a cult following in Finland, and adventure

glistening red toadstools. “The elves have been playing here,” laughs my guide Miki from Arctos Adventures, pointing to the disorderly mass of strewn stones. Using thick pads to protect the trees, Miki sets up our tents next to the bathwater-warm Lake Kolmoislampi, while I wander off in search of blueberries. “It’s very Finnish to explore the forest alone and have an internal

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

dialogue,” explains Miki, and I enjoy every meditative minute of picking plump berries and staining my fingers purple in the process. By midnight, it’s still not completely dark. This is, after all, a Scandi summer. Above me, wisps of treetops form charcoal scribbles in the sky, and in the distance I hear skinny dippers squeal as they splash in the lake.

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Climbing into the Tentsile requires a big heave and a belly flop, but once inside, it’s like sleeping in a spacious, supportive hammock. Air coolly circulates around my body and there are no irritating pinecones digging into my back. But it’s not just the freedom of movement that lulls me to sleep. Out here, surrounded by trees and toadstools, anything is possible. By nurturing nature on their doorstep, Helsinki’s city dwellers have struck upon a truly fine way to live.

Where To Sleep

Hotel Lilla Roberts, lillaroberts.com Built in 1909, this towering city centre building once functioned as a power plant and police station. Last year, it took on a more luxurious guise. An art deco undercurrent runs throughout the black lacquered and gleaming white interior, spruced up in the reception area-cum-lounge by a large resin stallion and light projection fireplace. The 130 bedrooms are more sober, while the Krog Roba restaurant serves an intriguing buffet breakfast of classics, alongside local rice-based Karelian

pastries and honey mead in cosy surroundings. Doubles from 180 euros per night with breakfast.

Where To Drink

A21 cocktail bar, a21.fi/en Glass windows have replaced thick curtains at this former sex shop-turned-clandestine drinking den, which serves some of the most experimental cocktails in the city. Order trip-down-memory-lane tipples inspired by different decades, or carefully crafted Nordic twists on classics, such as a berry-based Sex In The Forest. A fun flow chart menu will also help you choose a range of concoctions from the Gin Laboratory, featuring some brands distilled in Finland. Parking spaces outside have been transformed into a temporary summer terrace, open until 10pm. Continue drinking indoors until 2am on weekends.

Where To Eat

Juuri, juuri.fi/en/ Opened 13 years ago, this popular, laid-back restaurant recently extended seating into a basement area to cope with demand. The menu is a small but authentic showcase of Finnish cuisine, with the bite-size sapas being a highlight. These small Finnish

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starters include a velvet-soft organic pork neck, with beetroot, slithers of whitefish and fragrant elderflower. There are 12 different options which can be ordered as a platter for the table (13.50 euros per person).

Travel Facts Sarah Marshall was a guest of the Finnish Tourist Board. Visit www.visitfinland.com Camp in the air overnight at Nuuksio National Park, from 158 euros per person, including Tenstile Connect, backpack and sleeping back, vegetarian bento boxes and marshmallows, local guide and safety equipment. Visit arctosadventures.com Norwegian (www.norwegian.com/uk; 0330 828 0854) flies direct to Helsinki from London Gatwick 13 times a week from £49.90 one way, with free Wi-Fi on board.

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

The C60 Trident Pro 600 isn’t a bestseller for nothing. Water-resistant to a depth of 600m, it’s the perfect diving watch. But with its scratch-resistant ceramic bezel and elegant stainless steel case, it’ll look great just about anywhere. The 38mm and 43mm case sizes also ensure there’s a C60 for every wrist size. £660

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Trend Shop

Theia Cold shoulder Gown saxfifthavenue.com £806.53

The new season is called Terrain where earth tone palettes make a comeback due to the brown tones and olive tones combined with rich rust and plums in well cut classic, timeless pieces. Every single piece can be interchanged and would be adaptable to your current wardrobe. Wool jacket from Reiss is incredibly well cut and will be the only coat you need. Cashmere V neck jumper is in the softest shade of grey and will look elegant with both skinnie jeans and the pencil skirt.

The soft jersey dress is very flattering as well as being comfortable and you can dress it down with the laid back chelsea boots or dress it up with accessories and killer heels. If you are looking for a bag to buy it has to be this one from Anya Hindmarch. Beautifully made, functional and will be in Vogue forever!

Two tone boots Carashoes.co.uk £160

Plum asymmetric jersey dress arzukara.com £99

Richmond Indigo Skinny Jeans Jigsaw £149.00

Amaze Cylindrical Heeled Courts Office £68

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Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Primrose Brogue Chelsea Boot Whitestuff £75.00

Reema jacket Reiss £275

Flecked Tailoring Pencil Skirt Jigsaw £98.00

Space invaders, Leather bag Anya Hindmarch £1195

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Grey Cashmere Sweater Pure collection £74

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New Season Beauty

Deborah Mitchell ‘Heaven’ Silk Skin BeeBee Cream 30ml | £37 | www.heavenskincare.com

Clarins Mascara Supra Volume £21.50 | www.clarins.com

Urban Beauty United (UBU) brushes | various | £5 | Asda and Tesco

Clarins BB Skin Detox Fluid SPF25 | 4 shades | £30 | www.clarins.com

Eye of Horus liquid Metal Eyeliners | 4 shades | £16.50 | www.beautybay.com

Fillerina Dermo Cosmetic Filler 14 day treatment | from £38 (Grade 1) www.fillerina.co.uk

Jane Iredale ‘Lemongrass Love’ in aid of Breast Cancer Awareness | £23 | www.janeiredale.co.uk Clarins 4 Colour Eyeshadow Palette | 4 shades | £34 www.clarins.com

Katherine Daniels Urban Shield Concentrate 30ml | £35 | www.katherinedanielcosmetics.com

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Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Lavera Lipstick in Matt Plum various colours | £11.90 | www.pravera.co.uk

NKDb 3 Well Brow Palette | £20.50 | www.4thbasecosmetics.com/NKDb

Lavera Illuminating Eyeshadow Quattro | £14.50 www.pravera.co.uk NKDb Luxury Lipstick | various colours | £13 | www.4thbasecosmetics.com/NKDb

Mary Kay Special Edition Glowing Finish Illuminating Stick | various | £11.99 www.marykay.co.uk

Nude by Nature Cashmere Pressed Blush | £22 | www.asos.com or www.feelunique.com

Nude by Nature Luminous Sheer Liquid Foundation | £25 | www.asos.com or www.feelunique.com

Mary Kay Lash Intensity Mascara | £16 www.marykay.co.uk Mary Kay Gel Semi Matt Lipstick | 8 colours | £13 | www.marykay.co.uk

Nude by Nature Flawless Pressed Powder | £25 | www.asos.com or www.feelunique.com Mary Kay Upbeat eau de Toilette | £26 | www.marykay.co.uk

Nude by Nature Perfecting Primer | £22 | www.asos.com or www.feelunique.com

Ghost Whitelight | 30ml £25 | 50ml £34 | The Perfume shop

By Invitation for Women from Michael Bublé | 100ml £55 | www.michaelbubleperfume.com

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Ted Baker Residence Sydney Candle | £28 | Ted Baker Stores

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‘IT’S NOT SEXIST, It’s Groundbreaking’ ollowing the critical beating Batman v Superman: Dawn Of Justice took earlier this year, the pressure was on Suicide Squad, the latest offering from DC Entertainment, to deliver the comic book goods.

y Quinn as Harle Robbie t o rg a M

Cast of Suicide Squad But despite the hype, the movie - starring big hitters Will Smith and Margot Robbie as part of a motley band of super villains, brought together to fight a greater evil - faced a barrage of criticism before its release. “Ugly trash”, “mind-bogglingly stupid” and “puzzlingly confused” are just some of the disparagements it’s been charged with. But it hasn’t put fans off. The movie set a new record for an August opening and the film’s cast and its director David Ayer, have always insisted that the fans’ opinions are the only ones that matter anyway. We catch up with the movie’s stars, including Will Smith, Margot Robbie and Jared Leto, to find out what they make of the haters, and

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Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

how they brought the tale of gaudy anti-heroes to life.

Stepping Forward, Not Back

Margot Robbie manhandled Leonardo DiCaprio when he blocked her light during a scene in The Wolf Of Wall Street and injured Alexander Skarsgard while filming an amorous moment in Tarzan, so clearly, she’s not to be messed with. It’s no surprise to hear she’s less than amused by critics who’ve lambasted Suicide Squad, not least for its apparent sexism. “On such a big budget film, David [Ayer], Warner Bros, DC and everyone worked to have this diverse group of people, give chicks these bad-ass roles and allow actresses to do things we rarely get to do,” remarks the 26-year-old Australian, who plays the damaged and dangerously seductive Harley Quinn. “It’s such a cop out to be like, ‘Well, actually it’s sexist and I didn’t like it’. No, it’s not. It’s groundbreaking.”

Playing With Guns

Will Smith admits he did take a moment before signing on to play Deadshot, an assassin who gets a kick out of killing people. “It was difficult, but it only took a couple of days for me to want to kill Joel [Kinnaman, who plays Deadshot’s nemesis, military man Rick Flag] and then I was like, ‘Oh, that’s what it feels like’,” quips the 47-year-old, who doesn’t believe the gun-happy tone to be insensitive, despite mass shootings dominating headlines. “This is a super-heightened reality. This is a wild, comic-book movie,” he continues. “I definitely understand the sensitivity. I have children and I wouldn’t make something if I thought it was hitting those particular chords.” His co-star Jay Hernandez, 38, who plays pyrokinetic Diablo, agrees.

“A bit of failure is probably bound to happen with any risk you take,” notes the 44-year-old, who met with psychopathic patients and psychiatrists in preparation for the role. But he’s aware you only have so much influence over the end product. “Honestly, actors have so little to do with the final product of a film. You can talk about a performance, but even the performance can be so manipulated, for better or for worse, by editors and directors. Even the music in a scene can influence the performance.”

Revealing Inner Demons

Ayer encouraged the cast to reveal intimate memories and secrets, pushed them to delve deep into their own psyche and reportedly even had them put through interrogations. “It’s the most effective form of directing I think I’ve ever seen,” says Robbie. “You had to expose your most vulnerable side, and out of it, we became this super bonded squad. It also gave David this arsenal of ammo when we were shooting. He could pinpoint exact moments in our childhood or our insecurities, and utilise it in a scene to get the perfect performance.” Supermodel Cara Delevingne, 23, who plays archaeologist June Moone, as well as the witch-like Enchantress, likens the process to “having your skin peeled off and then David sticking you in a deep fat ‘squad’ fryer and you become his creation”. “But when you start admitting things about your life to each other, you automatically become so close.”

Meeting Leto

Leto declined the offer to be interrogated. “I’m too old and too wise to fall for the games of David Ayer, so I side-swept his inquisition and torture,” reveals the actor. It transpires his colleagues only met Leto on the recent promotional campaign. “Joker showed up for the movie,” explains Smith of the actor’s preference to stay in character off camera. “He was off the chain, went full Joker, but it was fun to watch. And he set the tone for everybody because, really quickly, we all realised, ‘OK, Jared’s taking this seriously, we should act’.”

“It’s almost like this mythic fairy tale. There are fantastic elements to it, but I think that argument is void, because it really comes down to parenting. You can’t pawn off your children’s bad behaviour on a movie, game or any external force.”

Suffering For Your Art

The On-Set Joker

But it wasn’t enough for Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, 48, to simply bulk up. He also spent up to five hours in the make-up chair to transform into Killer Croc.

Both Jack Nicholson and the late Heath Ledger earned critical acclaim and the latter an Academy Award - for their portrayal of the Joker. Despite his own Oscar win, for Dallas Buyers Club, Jared Leto admits he was “really nervous” about tackling the most iconic super villain of them all.

The Suicide ‘squad’ endured plenty of physical challenges. Some of those were self-inflicted, such as Jai Courtney, who plays Captain Boomerang, putting cigarettes out on himself. “I was experimenting with something during my prep,” the 30-year-old Australian grins. But for the most part, it was borne out of necessity, including the unrelenting gym and stunt work.

“You can’t rip it [the prosthetics] off or scratch it, so mentally you had to find a zen point,” reveals the British actor, who couldn’t even let his ‘scales’ down between takes. “When Will and Margot and everyone were playing in what we called ‘Willieville’, which was this recreation room Will created for us, I had to lie on my back to preserve my energy.” And how did he remain calm? “I’m a Buddhist, so I’d chant.”

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

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A Jean-Ius at Home

hen you’re a fashion designer who dresses the creme de la creme of the celebrity style pack - from Cara Delevingne and Beyonce, to Margot Robbie, Suki Waterhouse and Kendall Jenner - it’s almost a given that your own home will be a celebration of Hollywood-style glamour.

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Jamie Blakey, however, shuns the red carpet lifestyle beloved by her coterie of famous clients, and lives in a chic shoreside house, with a laid-back atmosphere which is totally in tune with her relaxed rock-n-roll design ethos. “It’s a house by the beach, of course, but I think of it as an open, communal home where we can all relax and have fun. I hate formality, and that’s why this place works for me. I sit on the deck looking out to sea and it really inspires my designs,” says the designer and owner of hugely successful fashion label One Teaspoon, famous for its denim cut-off shorts, ripped jeans and flowing tops.

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Her pared back decor palette mirrors the shades favoured in her ranges - black, white and denim blue - and perfectly suits the simple, two-storey wooden house, nestled in the sand dunes in northern Sydney, Australia. Eight years ago, when Blakey and her family - husband Ron, who works in the surf industry, and their three children, Eddie, Mickey and Minnie - moved in, they had quite a job on their hands refurbishing the property, which had been painted avocado green on the outside, while inside sported timber walls and floors so oiled and polished they were almost orange, making it more barn than beach. The couple subtly altered the layout to make the spaces on the ground floor ‘flow’ into one another, replaced timber, chose a crisp all-white decor scheme to further enhance the light, which streams in from the wrap-around windows and floods every area. The final transformation was painting the exterior charcoal. Linen fabrics, collections of shells, framed music posters and, for drama, a particularly show-stopping animal skull decoration combine to provide texture and interest in the fuss-free space. Blakey’s favourite interior accessory, pot plants fulfil their role of bringing rooms alive and blurring the boundary between the outdoors and in. “I love the upstairs as it’s relaxing,

but downstairs is where everything happens - family, friends, dogs and music all combine, and I love the spontaneity of that,” she says. Unsurprisingly, the designer who hates to pigeonhole her style and loves the description of her fashion as ‘rebellious’ - doesn’t think there should be any hard and fast rules for decor. “I like to improvise and change rooms around, so we can show-off our belongings in a new light,” she says, which explains why there’s a bohemian feel to rooms. A life-size model peacock is perched on one of the ceiling rafters, and Blakey’s recently paid a nod to the house’s location and added an authentic ship’s wheel to a group of monochrome wall prints. This quest for originality and desire for change reflects her approach to work. Her mother taught her to sew, and from the age of 12, Blakey made her own clothes. She worked for several years in the fashion industry, until 15 years ago, after failing to find items she wanted to wear or those which expressed her style, she scraped together her savings and bravely

launched her own brand. The name, One Teaspoon, came as she was sat in a cafe one day, nervously planning her very first show, and suddenly glanced at a single sachet of sugar on the table. “It was only a small idea that got me to the point of my own collection, so it seemed fitting,” Blakey explains. Her anxiety over how her clothes would be received proved unfounded - they were snapped up instantly and are now sold worldwide, as well as regularly being showcased by the brand’s famous fans, of course. Inspiration comes from experiences and random sources, she says, including her travels, fabrics, a colour, but more often than not, day-to-day life in her special home by the sea...

Borrow Blakey’s Beachside Vibes Conjure your own cool coastal atmosphere with an all-white (and black!) colour scheme.

Dulux has an Absolute White in its Light & Space range, £16.53 for 750ml at B&Q. If that’s too stark for the whole room, paint one feature wall a soft grey, such as Chic Shadow Matt Emulsion, £24.91 for 2.5L, from the Dulux Endurance range (www.diy.com). Simple black furniture contrasts well with painted wood floors, and Artisanti has a stylish Carson collection in black mahogany, which includes a Carson Scissor Leg Side Table, restocked in October, £374 (artisanti.com). Sweetpea & Willow’s Locket Trunk, £746, makes a striking style statement and doubles up for storage or a side table (www.sweetpeaandwillow.com). Blakey’s exotic plants and ferns contrast beautifully with her home’s neutral backdrop, and faux plants make it easy if you’re not naturally green-fingered. Rockett St George’s excellent collection includes a tall Faux Potted Bird Of Paradise With Fanned Leaves, £299 (rockettstgeorge.co.uk). Just one coastal accessory can be enough to make an interior feel it’s yards from the shore. Decorative Mirrors Online has a shipshape Round Wooden Helm Mirror, £82 (decorativemirrorsonline.co.uk). Add a touch of drama with a Ram’s Head Skull Resin Wall Sculpture, £39.95, Melody Maison (melodymaison.co.uk). Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

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Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Is Your Home a ‘Smart Home’? oday, it is possible to control many aspects of your world by simply touching a button on your smartphone or tablet device.

Via one app, you can manage, monitor and power your lighting, climate, energy consumption, security, shading, music, televisions and much more. You can even have a robotic lawnmower look after your lawn! In fact, with the ‘Internet of Things’ practically everything we touch can be automated, from our homes to our gardens, to the office and even on-board yachts. The possibilities are endless.

Introducing Quest End

During September, Quest End is proud to be launching a brand new Automation Experience Centre, which is located on Queen Street in Maidenhead.

Step inside the centre to see the technology at work, including a large variety of smart home automation and control technologies from some of the world’s leading manufacturers, such as Crestron, Savant and Loxone. State-of-the-art technologies on display in the Quest End experience centre include access control and entry solutions, smart CCTV and security systems, automated shading systems, energy and heating monitors, ambient lighting and multi-room audio and video innovations, all of which can be controlled by a smart device, regardless of whether operated from within the property, or remotely from anywhere across the globe. There is also a fabulous Cinema at Home suite that provides an immersive 4D experience, to truly demonstrate just what is possible in the home. Director of Quest End, Liam Parker, explains the origins of the company; “We originally set-up in 2010 primarily as a property development company, however over time, the company has evolved to focus on the design and installation of property automation and intelligent control systems. Our team has a passion for technology and the power that it has to transform lives, therefore the evolution to specifying, designing and installing bespoke property automation technology has been a natural step.”

Automate Your World

On entering the experience centre you work your way through a contemporary kitchen and living area, into a home office, a bedroom, bathroom and kitchen, before heading downstairs to a fabulous Cinema at Home suite, which includes a 4K projector, immersive 3D surround sound and motion controlled chairs, creating a sensational treat for your senses. “Every zone offers the ability to try a different technology, making it fully interactive and truly demonstrating the power of smart home automation, via connected devices,” confirms Liam when asked what people can expect from the experience centre: “We wanted to create somewhere that people could visit to really see how automation technology is able to transform an environment, be it at home, work or leisure.” The team works in partnership with architects, interior designers, property developers, in addition to homeowners, in designing smart home packages for new build developments, properties undergoing refurbishment, in addition to commercial buildings such as offices and even luxury yachts. Ultimately, the connected home is today’s reality and Quest End is able to show you the variety of ways that technology can help automate your world. For further information on Quest End, please visit www.questend.co.uk or to make a personal appointment at the Maidenhead experience centre, call 01628 290640 or email info@questend.co.uk Quest End | 18 Queen Street | Maidenhead | Berkshire SL6 1HZ Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

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5 Tips For An Exterior Makeover If your home has a painted exterior, it won’t stay looking good forever because the weather will take its toll. The easiest way to give the exterior a new look is to paint it a different colour, using a high-quality masonry paint. Even if you’re happy with the existing colour, repainting it can work wonders. Discoloured, peeling and patchy paint isn’t pretty or practical, and can lead to damage that’s expensive to repair. While you can rarely be as adventurous with the colours you use on the outside of your home as the inside, you don’t necessarily have to stick to white, cream or magnolia. However, you do need to consider what will go with your neighbours’ houses, if there any restrictions (such as planning ones) on the colours you can use, and what suits the style and period of the building. Having the exterior of your home rendered can really smarten it up, even if it’s just the front. Coloured renders are available, so if you find a colour you like, you won’t need to paint the render, saving time, effort and money. With modern-looking properties, wooden cladding (or faux wooden cladding) can work well, especially on the front. Another good way to improve the front of your home, especially if it’s plain and lacking character, is to add a porch. The porch should, of course, be in keeping with the style of the building and needn’t be elaborate - a small roof and something to hold up the roof may suffice. Changing the windows and front door, or replacing an unsightly porch, can also make a big difference to the look of your home. If it’s a period property with ugly modern windows, for example, fitting period-style windows will transform the exterior, and interior, and probably make it warmer and quieter too. Before you start changing the exterior, find out if there are any restrictions on what you can and can’t do. Listed buildings usually can’t be altered without obtaining listed building consent from the local council, for example. If you live

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on ‘designated land’, which includes conservation areas, you may not be able to do what you want with your home’s exterior, or you may need planning permission, especially if your home’s permitted development rights have been removed. Click on the porch, external walls, windows, etc, on the Interactive House at www.planningportal.co.uk to find out more.

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

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5 Tips about Surveys If you’re buying with the help of a mortgage, the lender will instruct a surveyor to value the property to ensure it’s worth what you’re paying. This valuation should identify any really obvious and serious problems with the property, but that’s all - the lender is simply protecting its interests. While the valuation is sometimes free, you may have to pay the lender for it. You can often upgrade to a survey by paying more, the cost of which may be subsidised by the lender, or you can get a survey done independently of the lender’s valuation. If the valuation is less than the purchase price, the mortgage lender may not agree to give you the loan, or may reduce the size of it. It could also put a retention on some of the loan, which may only be until you fix a serious problem, such as damp, or get a specialist report on it. Apart from the lender’s valuation, there are two main types of survey for buyers: the RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) HomeBuyer Report and the RICS Building Survey (or full structural survey). The HomeBuyer Report is usually quite long, but divided into sections to make

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it easy to digest. It uses a traffic-light system so you can clearly see what repairs (and maintenance) are required and how urgent they are. A green/ number one rating means that repairs aren’t currently necessary; amber/ number two means something needs to be repaired or replaced but isn’t serious or urgent; and red/number three means that it is, or it needs, urgent investigation. The surveyor will often recommend getting experts in to make further investigations, such as a timber specialist to confirm if woodworm damage is active or historic, or an electrician to check the wiring. The HomeBuyer Report is designed to provide a snapshot of the overall condition of the property, rather than a detailed investigation. For that, you need the Building Survey. The Building Survey is the most extensive and expensive type of survey - some mortgage lenders don’t offer it. It’s particularly suited to properties, for example, that are very old, of unusual construction, in need of renovation, or have been altered substantially. The surveyor will check the property thoroughly, but, as with the

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HomeBuyer, they’ll only examine things that are visible or easily accessible, although they can adapt their inspection to suit your requirements. Again, the surveyor will usually recommend getting in specialists to look at potential problems. The Building Survey should be very thorough and lengthy, often containing a long list of defects. Whichever survey you choose, it can be used to negotiate a lower purchase price - this doesn’t always work, but it’s usually worth a try.

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Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER /18/08/2015 OCTOBER09:51 2016

2016 Autumn Design Trends Jenny Allan from Jenny Allan Design gives advice on the go-to interior design trends this Autumn The current on trend colour for interior walls is grey, think a warm toned french grey. It’s understated and sophisticated shade make it pair-able with almost any autumnal colourscheme. Greys can be warmed or cooled depending on the colour combination chosen and their tone will also vary according to the amount of light in a space. An ideal colour to combine with grey, is navy or midnight blue which displays a subtle vibrancy and sophistication. Relaxing, calming and easy to incorporate into an interior, midnight blue is the perfect way to add a touch of colour to an interior. Use this colour for velvet cushions, decorative accessories or for a bolder look on walls or even as a curtain fabric. Other autumnal hues that combine beautifully with grey are rusty orange tones or even saffron which is very popular at the moment. Think minimal pops of accent colours which

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will add warmth to a space but not overpower the scheme. The warm tones even continue into metallics with copper and brass being the go-to metallics this autumn. They can be implemented in varying degrees from decorative accessories to a nest of side tables or a coffee table depending on the type of look. Furniture pieces and accessories with opulent metallic tones are currently in vogue and give a certain glamour to any interior. The reflective surfaces of metallics bounce light around a room and using a few well-chosen pieces can really lift a design. Whatever your preference, metallics will always add a touch of interest to your home. Another Autumnal theme is the occasional chair, the ideal place to curl up by the fire and read a good book as the days get longer and temperatures drop. From high wing backed chairs to a simple low backed version, a pair of statement chairs will create fantastic impact and make an on trend but also timeless addition to any home. Upholster in velvet or herringbone tweed to create the ultimate Autumnal design.

This Autumn’s on trend throws and cushions are beautiful, sumptuous textures such as faux fur, velvet and cashmere which combine perfectly with the rich blues and sophisticated greys. The use of different textures within a scheme will create interest and add depth to the room. Try draping fur throws over the end of the bed or sofa as the finishing touch to a room’s design. There’s an air of nature about this autumn’s interior trends, think country living with a touch of city chic. The fabrics of the moment are rustic and natural such as lambs wool and herringbone tweeds, ideal for a cosy, welcoming Autumn interior. These warm wools are the perfect match for use in upholstery as they are very durable and will combine well with other on trend pieces. Mulberry Home has some beautiful tartan accessories that will blend with every Autumn colourscheme. This autumn’s interior trends will suit any type of property, so now is the perfect time to start.

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

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The summer days are starting to have a chill in the air, the evenings are getting darker. It must mean only one thing………. Summer is nearly over and the autumn is round the corner. Here at Calibra Tree Surgeons we give you advice on how to care for your trees as the months turn colder. For your trees and plants this is a busy time to prepare for the winter months. Here are a few tips that you can follow to help your trees survive the winter, to feel the reward in the 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 just like in the hot summer months. If the temperature permits an occasional watering it 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. 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.

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

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Have you seen this plant? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the foreign invader damaging our natural environments. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stop it, before it stops your mortgage! Are you applying for a mortgage and not sure if you have Japanese Knotweed? RootsShootsLeaves can perform a site inspection and advise you as to whether Japenese Knotweed is present. It spreads easily, often by accident, and will quickly take hold in a garden and cause damage to structures, driveways and out competes all other plants. If you do have Japanese knotweed RootsShootsLeaves will produce a Management Plan (approved by most Mortgage Companies) including a Survey Report detailing the extent of the weed and what treatment is

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required to eradicate it allowing you to buy or sell your property, even during the treatment period. With Japanese Knotweed the sooner treatment starts, the quicker the plant is dealt with and less damage is caused. Call us today for a no obligation site survey and we can get the ball rolling! 01344 985885

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Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Make a head start with Autumn Veg re your vegetables looking a little stunted, jaded or straggly this summer? If so, you won’t be alone. “Summer has only just started, Mediterranean-style,” garden expert Pippa Greenwood observes. “A lot of plants are really behind because we didn’t have the run-up we needed,” says Greenwood, a regular on BBC Radio 4’s Gardeners’ Question Time. “The beginning of summer was wet, gloomy and cold. As veg catch up, many will become stressed because it’s too hot for them.” If courgettes get too dry and under stress from drought, they conserve energy by forming lots of male flowers which are no good if you want fruits, she says. The early part of summer which was wet may have also set pollinators back, so many fruits may have been pollinated later. The sudden hot weather may cause lettuce, spinach and herbs such as coriander to bolt (set seed), making them no good for eating, while slugs have stripped many leafy veg bare. If your veg are beyond saving or you’ve harvested your crops and now have vacant ground, it may be time to think about autumn veg. ‘Garden ready’ plants, which look like plug plants, are widely available and already have a healthy root system. “If you get veg plants in the ground in September, they can sit there, hold the soil together over the winter and be ticking over,” says Greenwood, who has launched a ‘Winter thru’ Spring’ Collection of vegetables. Here are some of her favourites for September planting:

Broad beans:

“Very few people plant broad beans in September, but if you do you’ll see that they really do get ahead. Get them in September as small plants, overwinter them with a fleece-covered tunnel in the worst of the winter. Then plant another batch early in the year and you’ll have a much longer cropping period as the ones you planted in September will be ready to harvest several weeks before the ones you planted in the spring.” Support bean plants through the winter with canes and twine.

Radiccio:

The dark red, almost burgundy-coloured leaf which adds colour and flavour to salad can be planted

in September and looks great as an ornamental plant as well as tasting good. “It’s the richest burgundy red with white veins. When you plant it, it is often green with slight purple streaks, but as it grows it will pink up and then go red once it’s hit by really cold weather.” If you plant it in September, you may be eating leaves within six weeks to two months, depending on the weather. When the weather turns really cold, cover it with fleece tunnel to protect the leaves.

Japanese onions:

Buy them as small plants in a cell in September. Plant the cell, which usually contains between three and five little onion plants, in its entirety, about 40cm apart. The plants inside will elbow each other apart to form a clump of onions. They need to be kept moist in September - but don’t feed them - and are maintenance-free in winter, growing rapidly in spring. Keep rows weeded and watered in dry weather and you should be harvesting them by summer, when the foliage starts to yellow. The bulbs are visible largely above ground.

Purple sprouting broccoli:

“It’s a very pretty plant, with beautiful purple spears and is incredibly good for you in terms of vitamin content and is also easy to grow. Put small plants in in the autumn and firm the soil really firmly around the base of the plant or it won’t crop as well.” Brassicas need firm soil. As they grow, they can be loosened by heavy rain and wind and will need re-firming. Protect from pigeons with a poly tunnel when the plant is young. They should be ready late spring, depending on conditions. With the wealth of pests there have been this year, Greenwoodwarns: “If you are taking delivery of tender small plants in September, try to sort out the slug population beforehand. “Put down Nemaslug (www.nemaslugdirect.co.uk), the nematode, as a drench, on to the area you are going to plant up. A small pack will serve 40-square metres which is plenty of space for a lot of veg and it lasts really effectively in the soil for six weeks, often a bit more. “Apply it just before you put your autumn veg in, which gives the plant six weeks to toughen up and become a lot less appetising to pests. The more slugs you sort out in the autumn, the fewer there are in the spring.” More information available from www.pippagreenwood.com

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

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Which... Street Names Take Gold For Property Prices?

To celebrate the Olympics, property website Zoopla has taken a look at house prices in streets that share their names with the surnames of high-profile athletes. It found the average property on streets featuring Bolt in the name is worth £563,106. Properties on streets with Wiggins in the name had an average property value of £465,530, while roads named Redgrave had homes worth £328,726 on average. Meanwhile, streets named gold are out in front when it comes to property prices. The average property on a street containing the word gold is worth £333,570. Streets containing the word silver have properties worth £277,739 on average. Bronze takes third place, with homes in streets containing that word worth £257,282 typically.

Signs of Confidence Returning To Housing Market, Surveyors Find There are signs of confidence returning after a “wobble” following the vote to leave the EU - surveyors have found. A net balance of 5% of surveyors reported house prices rising rather than falling last month, according to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (Rics), marking the lowest reading in three years. But Rics also says comments from some agents “suggest activity has picked up after an initial wobble, while others cite the Brexit vote as having only a modest or even negligible impact thus far”

Peer Pressure ‘Adds Nearly £900 A Year Typically To Bills’

Parents who cave in to pressure from their children to buy them the latest “must have” item so they can keep up with their peers, estimate this adds nearly £900 to their annual household spending typically, a survey has found. The research from Sainsbury’s Bank looked at the extent to which parents feel under pressure to buy their children expensive items, invest in hobbies or throw big parties so they can have the same as their children’s friends and acquaintances. Technology, such as phones and tablets, is the main driver of pressure on parents, with 44% of parents feeling under pressure to buy their children the latest gadgets, the research among more than 2,000 people found.

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Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

First Drive: Mercedes-Benz Glc Coupe What’s new?

This is Mercedes’ newest addition to its SUV line-up, and its second attempt at a coupe SUV. Sitting below the GLE Coupe in the range, the GLC Coupe is essentially a GLC with a sleeker, sportier body atop the SUV chassis. But to dismiss this as a GLC for the fashion-conscious is to undersell this car somewhat, because the Coupe is also bestowed with more direct steering and a sportier suspension set-up that aims, in Mercedes’ words, to make this “the sports car among the mid-size SUVs”. Under the bonnet you’ll find one of Mercedes’ now-ageing 2.1-litre diesel engines, but these will eventually be joined by a 3.0-litre V6 diesel, a twin-turbo V6 petrol and a plug-in hybrid. Sadly, though, the latter won’t be with us until 2018.

Looks and image

For all Mercedes’ claims of dynamism, it’s difficult to get around the wanton stylishness of the GLC Coupe. The standard C-Class Coupe is a gorgeous machine, and there’s more than a hint of that sleek aesthetic about the GLC. Somehow, though, it doesn’t sit all that well on the raised GLC chassis. It’s a muscular image, but there’s a little too much metalwork on the sides and the bumpers are a mite too deep to call it truly beautiful. Yet as soon as you sit inside it, you know you’re in something a little bit more special than your common or garden SUV. The cabin is stock C-Class, but there’s nothing wrong with that. Even though the materials and build quality aren’t up to the standards set by Audi and BMW, there’s a sense of style and occasion that little else in this price range can match.

£3,000 more expensive than the equivalent GLC SUV, but there isn’t a lot of extra kit. In fact, apart from the suspension, steering and the bodywork, it’s absolutely identical to the SUV.

Space and practicality

Even so, there’s plenty of standard equipment. The nine-speed automatic transmission is standard, along with 18-inch alloys, parking sensors and satellite navigation.

Fortunately, the boot is capacious enough for items such as suitcases and golf clubs, but the boot floor seems to be quite a way up and hoisting heavier objects in and out may be a bit of a faff.

Upgrading to the £42,090 AMG Line, though, will earn you full Artico man-made leather, black headlining and myriad aesthetic tweaks both inside and out.

The cost of all the GLC Coupe’s stylishness, though, is practicality. There’s plenty of room in the front, and access to the rear seats is good thanks to the sensibly sized back doors, but taller rear-seat passengers will find that headroom is at a premium.

Behind the wheel

The GLC Coupe’s key strength lies on the tarmac. Sports suspension, which is optional on the normal GLC, comes as standard on the Coupe, while the track has been widened and the coupe body has lowered the centre of gravity. As a result, the GLC Coupe’s road manners are very solid, especially considering the kerb weight of 1.8 tonnes. It isn’t what you’d call sporty, and it probably couldn’t even keep pace with the Porsche Macan, but it’s a match for the likes of the BMW X4 and Range Rover Evoque. It isn’t just the handling that impresses, either. Even with its sporting pretensions, the GLC Coupe offers a smooth, comfortable ride, and despite the ageing engines, it’s still quite refined. That’s helped by the excellent nine-speed automatic gearbox, though, which does a great job of keeping the revs down and shifts seamlessly between ratios.

Value for money

Prices start from £40,580, which buys you the 220d Sport model. That’s Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

At present, the price structure is relatively flat thanks to the limited engine range, but once the V6 diesel-powered 350d arrives at the end of the year the prices will likely reach up towards the £50,000 mark.

Who would buy one?

The GLC Coupe is aimed squarely at stylish young professionals who want to join the SUV revolution without sacrificing the looks and handling of a coupe. It’s a pleasant surprise to find that it’s relatively practical, though, so some young families may be tempted.

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Coffee Break ACROSS

7. Can Leo’s muesli be mixed? (13) 8. Rustic consuming hot game bird (8) 9. Told untruths about the song (4) 10. Create cosmetics (4-2) 12. Comment concerning a boy (6) 14. A burning jacket? (6) 16. Terrible pains to the left of the backbone (6) 18. Search for food (4) 20. Show changes in India, etc (8) 22. Institution? (13)

DOWN

Across: 7 Miscellaneous; 8 Pheasant; 9 Lied; 10 Make-up; 12 Remark; 14 Blazer; 16 Spinal; 18 Grub; 20 Indicate; 22 Establishment.

Martin adaMs

Down: 1 Highball; 2 Scrape; 3 Flea; 4 Pastures; 5 Bedlam; 6 June; 11 Particle; 13 Reacting; 15 Zebras; 17 Income; 19 Rose; 21 Dish.

1. Drink a goalkeeper might go for (8) 2. Possibly recaps on a predicament (6) 3. Insect heard to escape (4) 4. Oversure about fields (8) 5. Possibly blamed for a state of uproar (6) 6. Calendar girl? (4) 11. A bit of a quiet item (8) 13. Responding concerning the Thespian art (8) 15. Animals captured in bronze, brass, etc. (6) 17. A new coin given to me as revenue (6) 19. Got up to get the wine (4) 21. A good-looking item of crockery (4) MARTIN ADAMS:MARTIN ADAMS.qxd 13/04/2010 10:31 Page 1

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Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Kenya By Mark & Jacky Bloomfield

We live in a world where cultural differences are from time to time, thrown into sharp focus by momentous events. Maybe if we look at children those differences are much more blurred. Think about it, today’s schoolchild is the conservationist, environmentalist, protector of our wild places. But many children don’t have basic access to the countryside or the wildlife it contains. For many, it is an almost something akin to Jupiter or Mars, far, distant and hostile. The animals and plants more like “Alien” than friends. More and more our wild places are under threat from profit. Commerce is now the single

biggest danger facing our eco-system. We think we are clever, so clever in fact that we don’t need to worry as long as we can make a profit despite what damage we do. Perhaps a timely reminder is that we to live in our planet’s biosphere and to date we have not found a way to survive without it. Something has to be done and sooner rather than latter otherwise perhaps your children, or your grandchildren are going to be growing up in a different world. Are we so very different? Today’s children are growing up with no knowledge of the wild places around them. They are stuck in towns and cities becoming more disconnected with anything outside their confines. Long-term conservation has made way for short term profit. Does this sound familiar? Because; am I talking about the children of this country, or of Kenya. For very different reasons we are disconnecting our children from the wildlife and environment. In Kenya, it is a lack of money that sees children growing up in Africa, but may have never seen a Lion in the wild. Most Kenyan children don’t live near a national park. Entry

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

is free but the cost of traveling to the park puts visits out of the question. Nowadays, outside of these parks you are very unlikely to see a Lion. Elephants, if poaching is not brought under control, by world leaders; will be extinct in the wild by 2025. Kenya’s children will not care because it is only a picture in a book to them. If you want to help Kenyan children, then add your support to a charity. We support The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. Their Community Outreach Programs are vital building relationships with local communities. Allowing adult and children to understand and enjoy their wildlife and environmental heritage. Oh and don’t think we are doing any better. Our own children have never been more disconnected from our countryside. Ninety one percent of parents think having access to nature and wildlife is important for children. And yet 27% 8-15 year olds had never played outside by themselves beyond their home or garden. Think of our Hedgehog as the African Lion of the UK, for 37% of our children have never seen one and they are becoming just as endangered. Get out enjoy our wildlife and environment and help others to do so.

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Why you should brush your dog e’ve all seen the dog food and paint adverts in which dogs with beautiful flowing locks bound through flower meadows or similar and thought, thank goodness I don’t have to groom that lot! But, in fact, brushing your dog has multiple benefits and should form part of your routine dog care activities, even if they have very short fur. Different breeds and individual dogs shed to varying degrees and generalisations are dangerous. However, in broad terms dogs grow two coats a year which are shed in Spring and Autumn. The Spring moult is more significant because it is the heavier winter coat that is being lost. It seems to go on forever, doesn’t it. Brushing will help keep your dogs’ coat in good condition by stimulating blood flow to the skin and removing the dirty oily hair that has been cast, but not shed from the coat. It will also make them feel more comfortable, a bit like giving tangled hair a good brush. Be sure to get the right brush for your dogs’ fur type and carefully tease out matted parts and debris as you would for a child’s hair. No rough tugging! Brushing your dog will reduce the amount of fur that needs to be vacuumed up – honest. Though it seems that as much as you remove, the same amount comes away in your hand immediately afterwards. Doggie smells will be improved through the removal of grubby greasy fur and their bed will also smell better and need less frequent washing. You will also see a reduction in the incidence of greasy marks on walls they regularly brush against, your clothes and even when you run you hand over their coat.

www.bigdogbedcompany.co.uk

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You should see an improved shine and the coat should feel smoother and cleaner to the touch after brushing. If you have not been in the habit of grooming your dog regularly, this could take a few days or even a couple of weeks to become obvious. You should start to brush your dog as soon as you get him/her, whether as a puppy or when older. Young puppies don’t really need brushing, but if it is done from the outset, it becomes a normalised activity that they are happy to accept without a fuss. Going to a grooming parlour is an option, but it should be considered as equivalent to you going to the hair dresser or barber – a regular, but infrequent tidy up. It does not bring the additional less tangible, but just as important benefits described below. Ok, so in addition to the benefits to the coat condition and look of your dog, why is brushing important? Well, it is very specifically time you give to your dog so it reinforces the bond you have. You talk to them only and they are not sharing you with the whole family while it is going on. In our busy lives, family dogs often miss out on one to one time that we all crave, including dogs, as life goes on around them. Remember, you may have lots of interests and activities taking up your time, but your dog only has you and looks to you for everything. Ideally, everyone in the family should be involved with the dog brushing routine for the same reason – it gives the dog ‘me time’ with everyone. Make sure you show older children very specifically what to do and younger children should not do this without adult supervision in case they become over enthusiastic and a nip results. A dog that is regularly handled by multiple members of the family will generally be more relaxed with strangers touching them so vet visits or kennel stays will be less stressful all round. When brushing your dag you can teach the command ‘stand; which will make your job easier, but also that of any vet who is trying to examine the dog. Grooming also lets you check and remove ticks and other parasites, which is particularly important at this time of year. In older dogs, the growth of any lumps and bumps will be noticed sooner and can be monitored frequently to check their rate of growth before deciding on a visit to the vet. If grooming is done regularly, and at this time of year, that probably means daily or every second day, it need not be a massively time consuming activity. Five – 10 minutes only with a treat and some play time at the end to bring reward for cooperation and fun into the activity. So start today, and enrich your relationship with your dog while also benefitting their physical and psychological health. Dru Ross

• Waterproof • Antibacterial • Hardwearing • Comfortable Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Film Digest

What’s On at the Regal Opera Australia: Turandot On Sydney Harbour This production of Puccini’s final opera was created especially for Sydney Harbour’s jaw-dropping outdoor water-stage. Thu 15 Sep, 8.00

War Dogs (15)

The Hangover mastermind, Todd Phillips’ film opens with TV news footage from the war in Iraq in 2008. “I see 17,000 dollars,” explains massage therapist David Packouz (Miles Teller). “That’s what it costs to outfit an American soldier.” Narrating his own extraordinary story, David introduces us to his wife Iz (Ana de Armas), with whom he hopes to raise a family by selling bed sheets to local care homes. His get-rich-quick scheme flops and David is reluctant to tell his spouse that the boxes of bedding cluttering up their apartment are not their golden ticket to a brighter future. At this low ebb, David meets his friend Efraim Diveroli (Jonah Hill), who has discovered a website which lists contracts that the US military needs to be fulfilled. The buddies tender for a massive munitions contract with the help of infamous dealer Henry Girard (Bradley Cooper) and underbid by 53 million dollars. David travels to Albania to fulfil the contract, aided by his driver Bashkim (JB Blanc), who knows which palms to grease. When David questions the morality of the business, which he keeps secret from Iz, Efraim immediately hits back. “This isn’t about being pro-war,” he counsels David. “It’s about being pro-money.” Bolstered by strong performances from the two leads, War Dogs is an engrossing and frequently uproarious comedy of errors.

David Brent: Life On The Road (15) It has been 12 years since David Brent (Ricky Gervais) awkwardly ruled the roost at the Slough branch of Wernham Hogg Paper Company. He’s now a travelling salesman at Lavichem, peddling sanitary products with gusto and irritating his work colleagues including office bully Jezza (Andrew Brooke) and HR manager Miriam (Rebecca Gethings). Brent does have a few supporters, including Pauline from accounts (Jo Hartley), who has a crush on him, and receptionist Karen (Mandeep Dhillon). “Most people don’t get him, but I do,” beams fellow salesman Nigel (Tom Bennett). Brent takes unpaid leave from his unedifying day-to-day grind to pursue his dream of music stardom as lead singer of his unsigned band. “The ghost of Alexander O’Neal visited me one night and said, ‘You have got what it takes’,” explains Brent, who plunders his savings to hire a despairing road manager (Tom Basden) and a quartet of talented sessions musicians, including his nephew Stu (Stuart Wilkinson) on guitar. A rapper called Dom Johnson (Ben Bailey Smith aka Doc Brown) joins Foregone Conclusion to bolster the band’s yoof appeal as the mutinous and motley crew embarks on a tour of venues close to the Lavichem office. David Brent: Life On The Road is peppered with uproarious one-liners and moments of skin-crawling brilliance that confirm Gervais as a master of unflattering observation. Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

National Theatre: The Three Penny Opera A darkly comic new take on Brecht and Weill’s raucous musical broadcast live from the stage of the National Theatre. Thu 22 Sep, 7.00 Michael Buble – Tour Stop 148 A front row seat to the superstar’s phenomenally successful sold out To Be Loved Tour which concluded in 2015 and was seen globally by over two million fans. Sun 25 Sep, 6.00 ROH Live : Norma This new production of Norma for The Royal Opera is distinguished by a superlative cast of internationally renowned singers. Mon 26 Sep, 7.15 Bolshoi Ballet: The Golden Age In a seaside town where business and the Mafia are flourishing, the Golden Age cabaret is the favourite nightly haunt of dancers, bandits and young revellers. Sun 16 Oct, 4.00 Miss Saigon 25th Anniversary Performance This spectacular, sell-out 25th Anniversary Gala Performance of the global stage sensation also features appearances by the original cast including Jonathan Pryce and Lea Salonga. Sun 16 Oct, 7.00 ROH Live: Cosi Fan Tutte Mozart’s classic opera Così fan tutte puts two pairs of lovers to the test – with great music but distinctly unexpected results. Mon 17 Oct, 6.30 Branagh Theatre Live: The Entertainer Set against the backdrop of post-war Britain, John Osborne’s modern classic conjures the seedy glamour of the old music halls for an explosive examination of public masks and private torment. Thu 27 Oct, 7.15 Regal Picturehouse, 2 Boroma Way, Henley RG9 2BZ 0871 902 5738 | www.picturehouses.co.uk

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September

Diary Dates

08-11: ‘Heritage Open Day’

www.heritageopdendays.org.uk

9-11: ‘Traylens Fun Fair’ Town Moor, Maidenhead

10: ‘Heritage Open Days

Widmere Chapel, Widmere Lane, Marlow, a rare chance to visit the crypt of this ancient and atmospheric chapel which once belonged to the Knights Templars, 10:00-16:00, there will be guided tours of the interior.

10: ‘Henley Show’

The Henley Showground, Hambleden, RG9 3AS www.thehenleyshow.co.uk – 01491 413619.

11: ‘Heritage Open Days

The Courtyard, Old Wethered Brewery, High Street, Marlow, 10:00-16:00, an exhibition about the history of the Wethered Brewery in the 20th Century and its role as a munitions factory during WWI, guided tours of the brewery.

14: ‘Marlow Archaeological Society

Windsor: The Castle and its Landscape c1070 – 1300 – Dr Steven Brindle at Liston Hall, SL7 1DD, 20:00, £4, members £3, students £1.50 – 01628 523895.

16: ‘Marlow Players – Murder Mystery Evening

“An Ice Cold Manner’ at Bourne End Community Centre, 19:30, £15 includes a fish and chip supper – tickets from the Marlow Information Centre- 01628 483597.

16-18: ‘Traylens Fun Fair’

11: The Marlow Society “Town Walk”

Town Moor, Maidenhead

11: ‘Gravity Grand Prix’

16:30-18:00- Marlow venue - For more info www.stagecoach.co.uk/highwycombe,

meet at the Marlow Museum, 10:30 – 01628 482754.

Cookham’; 1.30pm, in aid of The Thames Valley Air Ambulance. For more info peter_bartlett@btinternet.com

11: National Heritage Open Day

at Taplow Court, Cliveden Road, Taplow, House & Grounds open to the public, 14:00-17:00.

16: ‘Stagecoach Discovery Day’

16: ‘Nitro Nineties – Rewound and Reloaded Tribute Night’

at Crowne Plaza – Marlow, a dynamic 90’s show featuring top West End Stars, includes a 2 course dinner, followed by music until 00:30, £32 – 01628 496860.

17: Marlow Carnival

11:00-17:00 – Higginson Park, www.marlowcarnival.co.uk – 01628 472558.

17: ‘Cookham Dean Fete’

1-5pm; The Old Cricket Common, Cookham Dean.

17: ‘Museum of the Unexpected’

12: ‘Boutique Cinema showing “Concussion”

at Claytons Marlow, sit back and sip a cocktail or grab some food on a comfy leather sofa and enjoy a film on a big screen, caters for 25 people, 20:00, booking recommended – 01628 488404.

13: Marlow & District Horticultural Society

‘Raindrops on Roses’ some of my favourite plants by Steve Brooks at Liston Hall, 20:00-22:00 – 01628 486206.

celebrate Roald Dahl’s 100th Birthday in his home of Great Missenden, The Roald Dahl Museum will be packed with exciting and unexpected surprises, 11:00-17:00 – 01494 892192.

17: ‘Stagecoach Discovery Day’

11:15-12:45- Henley venue - For more info www.stagecoach.co.uk/highwycombe,

17+18: ‘Kop Hill Climb’

Princes Risborough – www.kophillclimb.org.uk

18: ‘Dog Show’

at Stokenchurch Dog Rescue.

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Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Diary Dates 18: ‘RAF High Wycombe

will be exercising their right to parade through Marlow. This parade will encompass not only the Freedom Parade but also the Battle of Britain Service & the 75th Anniversary of RAF Cadets.

20: ‘Wedding Fair’ at the Crowne Plaza.

20: Marlow Jazz Club

Music in the Django Tradition - The Gary Potter Hot Club featuring Noreen Cullen, Marlow British Legion, 20:30 £8.

21: ‘Stagecoach Discovery Day’

16:30 - 18: 00 - Wycombe venue - For more info www.stagecoach.co.uk/highwycombe

view and buy members work, linger over the ‘Nostalgia Exhibits’ to be opened by Marlow Town Mayor Councilor Bob Johnson.

22: Archaeology in Marlow

28: ‘Wine Tasting’

Putting Marlow on the Map: from Gough to Google, by John Leighfield, Liston Hall 20:00, Members £3, Visitors £4.

24: ‘Berkshire Search & Rescue Dogs Family Day’

11am - 4pm, Braywood Farm, Ascot Rd, Maidenhead Tickets £5, children £3.

24: ‘Stubbings Nursery Open Air Cinema Pulp Fiction’ - www.stubbingsnursery.co.uk

24: Sprintathon at Little Marlow Athletics Track

supporting Stand Up to Cancer charity. To get involved as a runner or helper, please contact Mark Evans by email markevans123456@gmail.com.

24: Hambleden Concerts

Choral Classics a Special Concert by members of The Sixteen, The Parish of St Mary the Virgin, 19:30, £25 includes drinks and canapes.

24: ‘Sue Ryder Woodland Walk’

with Marlow Wine Society, every month there is a different theme given by an invited speaker or knowledgeable society Member, with 8 wines to taste, an enjoyable, lively and informative gathering, 20:00-22:00 in the Pugin Rooms, St Peter’s Street – 01628 482299.

October 02: ‘Family Fun Day’

bring the entire family to the Wycombe Swan for our annual free event, children’s workshops, character led backstage tours, meet Cinderella, pumpkin decorating and face painting, free admission but some activities may incur a cost, 11:00-15:00.

04: Tea Dance

at Flackwell Heath Community Centre, 14:00-16:00, £5 per person – 07891 614491.

04: ‘Wedding Fair’

at Nettlebed Hospice, 11:00, 5K + 10K walks through the Oxfordshire Woodland with entertainment and refreshments, £10, children £5 family of four £25 – 01491 641384 x276

at Bisham Abbey.

25: ‘Annual Big Band Charity Event’

04: ‘Rebellion Brewery Open Night’

The Heart Rehabilitation organisation of Berks (THROB); Bourne End Community Centre - Tickets at BE Community Centre £12/rodjcrouch@tiscali.co.uk

25: ‘Stubbings Nursery Open Air Cinema - Grease’ - www.stubbingsnursery.co.uk

04: ‘Wedding Fair’

at Crowne Plaza Marlow.

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, £12.50pp, BBQ all year round!

08+09: ‘Apple Days’ at Cliveden

26 Sept – 02 Oct: ‘Henley Literary Festival’ www.henleyliteraryfestival.co.uk

tours of the Round Garden, apple pressing and apple themed crafts, 11:00-15:00, free event but normal admission applies.

27: ‘Marlow Camera Club’s 50th Celebrations

09: The Marlow Society “Forgotten Marlow Walk”

at All Saints Church Hall, 10:00-16:00, talk to members,

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

meet at Marlow Museum, 14:30 – 01628 482754.

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Diary Dates 11: Marlow & District Horticultural Society

29: ‘Marlow Transition Town Community Market’

13: ‘Marlow Archaeological Society

29: ‘Adults Monster Mash Disco’ at Crowne Plaza Marlow’

‘A Patch of Paradise on Earth’ a history of the English Garden by Roger Askew at Liston Hall, 20:00-10:00 – 01628 486206.

The Old Straight Track Revisited and Revised Understanding of the Dating Patterns of Mobility in Prehistory – Prof Martin Bell, joint talk with Archaeology in Marlow at Liston Hall, SL7 1DD, 20:00, £4, members £3, students £1.50 – 01628 523895.

16: ‘Frieth Hilly, 10K + 5K run

10:00 start at Frieth School, RG9 6PR – www.friethhilly.co.uk

local crafts and produce, refreshments available at Liston Hall, 09:30-13:00.

dare to come to our delightfully devilish Monster Mash, dress to distress, 20:00-01:00, free admission – 01628 496860.

November 01: ‘Rebellion Brewery Open Night’

05: ‘Spectacular Fireworks Celebration’

at the Crowne Plaza Marlow, with fireworks over the lake, live music and a selection of food and drink to purchase, 18:30, £12.50 per adult, £5 per child (3-12 year olds) family 2+2 £30 – 01628 496860.

17: The Marlow Society

Talk by Andy Ford (subject TBD) 19:30 at Liston Hall.

18: Marlow Jazz Club, Dynamic pairing

Alan Barnes & Gilad Atzmon, Marlow British Legion, 20:30 £8.

22: ‘Nettlebed Fireworks’

at Sue Ryder, Nettlebed Hospice, bring your little witches and wizards and join us for an evening of food, family and fireworks – 01491 641384.

26: ‘Wine Tasting’

with Marlow Wine Society, 20:00-22:00 in the Pugin Rooms, St Peter’s Street – 01628 482299.

27-29: ‘Far from the Madding Crowd’

Fourways production at Wycombe Abbey, 19:30.

28: ‘Kids Spooky Mini Disco’

at Crowne Plaza – Marlow, come to a spooky Halloween Disco for an afternoon of fangtastic fun, prize for spookiest fancy dress costume, DJ & entertainer, face painter and bouncy castle, £15 per ticket (3-12 year olds) includes dinner box, under 2’s free (with no dinner box) 01628 496860.

28+29: ‘Wycombe Swan Beer & Cider Festival’

complete with delicious street food stalls, come and celebrate our fourth year in the Old Town Hall, 18:30-23:00 on Friday, 12:00-16:30 + 18:30-23:00 on Saturday over 18’s live music in the evenings, £8 in advance £10 on the door, ticket includes two beer tokens, brochure and branded pint glass to book – www.wycombeswan.co.uk

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05: ‘Wycrail’ High Wycombe & District Model Railway Society at Cressex Community School, HP12 4UD, 10:00-17:00.

11: ‘The Official Comedy Club’

back by popular demand at The Crowne Plaza, Marlow, a night of comedy with chicken and chips in a basket followed by a disco until 00:30, £29 per adult (over 18’s only) comedy only - no food £19, 19:00 – 01628 496860.

11: ‘Wedding Fair’

at Wycombe Swan and Town Hall.

December 5: Marlow’s 12th Santa’s Fun Run 2016

Sir Steve Redgrave will set the scene as runners dressed as Santa Clause, Mummy Clause and Santa’s little helpers, will set Marlow High Street into a remarkable sea of red on this magic day. Dogs will also be welcome - as will push chairs and wheel chairs. So able bodied or not, young or old, this really is the fun run for everyone. Participating Santa’s can raise money for their own personal charities along with Rotary chosen charities. The 5 kilometre route takes participants from and then back to

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Diary

Dates

ONGOING EVENTS - General Marlow Art & Craft Society 1st Thursday in month | 19:30 Marlow Bottom Village Hall

Higginson Park, and for all those who complete the course there is a celebratory bronze medal. Just to say “Well done”! Potential participants should sign up quickly and then start raising sponsorship as early as possible. The website is now live (www.santasfunrun.org) and anyone interested will need to book early to avoid disappointment The website also has lots of information about the run, Rotary, the charities we support and the all-important entry and sponsorship forms. Entry costs are £15 (adults), £10 (12 to 17 years), and £7 (5 to 11 years).

At time of print all dates are correct. 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. To add an event: office@alongthethames.co.uk Do you belong to a local club or group?

Are you responsible for booking speakers to fill a number of slots throughout the year? Why not arrange for a Rennie Grove Hospice Care Ambassador to visit and talk about the work that Rennie Grove does in your local community? There’s no charge for an Ambassador talk; however, Rennie Grove needs to raise £7.2 million each year to help the thousands of local families who need us - so we do ask groups to consider a small donation to cover travel expenses and contribute towards patient care. To find out more about Rennie Grove and to download an Ambassador booking form, visit www.renniegrove.org/support/ community-groups/book-anambassador-talk or call 01442 890222.

Marlow Antique bric-a-brac fair 1st Saturday of the month at Liston Hall | 9:00 - 16:00 Marlow Museum Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays | 1pm to 5pm | www.marlowmuseum.org | Pound Lane - opposite the Leisure Club Marlow Camera Club every Tuesday | 19:45 - 20:00 | The Methodist Church Hall, Spittal Street, Marlow, SL7 3HJ Henley Photographic Club every Tuesday evening | 20:00 - 22:00 | YMCA Hall, off Waterman’s Road, Henley www.henleyphotoclub.com Stanley Spencer Gallery 2nd April - 1st November 2015 | 10:30 - 17:30 daily Speak Spanish in Beaconsfield, Beaconsfield High School Wednesdays | 19:30 | Suitable for all levels except beginners | Tony on 07947 508755 | anthony.mitchelmore@sky.com Maidenhead Camera Club every Tuesday, Cox Green Community Centre | 01628 630861 The East Berks RSPB Group monthly | 7.30pm to 9.30pm on Thursdays High Street Methodist Church Hall, Maidenhead www.eastberksrspb.org.uk Maidenhead Heritage Centre last Wednesday of the month | WRVS, Maidenhead | 780555 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 + club weekends, coach rambles, and other social walking events | Di Olden - 01494 714486 | www.southbuckshfwalkingclub.co.uk Cookham & Cookham Dean Horticultural Society last Wednesday of the month from January - May & September - November | 19:30 | Cookham Dean Village Hall | clairephillpot@btinternet.com Maidenhead National Trust second Thursday every month but August | 19:45 | Altwood School, Maidenhead | 01753 516502 Jazz Every Thursday | 20:30| Hedsor Social Club, Hedsor Rod, Bourne End, SL8 5ES | £6 Maidenhead Giant Car boot set up from 10am, gates open from noon, A4, exit junction 7 of M4. Sun 13th March until Sun 8th May – 07947 121 336 – www.giantcarboot.co.uk Henley & Goring Ramblers No need to book, just turn up, we are a friendly group and new walkers and non members are always welcome | www.ramblers-oxon.org.uk

ONGOING EVENTS - Markets

Maidenhead Produce Market 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month on Maidenhead High Street The Farmers Market 2nd Sunday of the month from 10:00, Grove Street Car Park Bourne End Country Market Small Hall 10 - 12, Every Friday Henley Farmers Market every 4th Thursday in Falaise Square, Henley, 8:30-14:00 Bourne End Community Market second Saturday of every month 10:00 - 13:00 in the Jackson Room of Bourne End Library. Transition Town Marlow last Saturday of every month | 9:30 - 13:00 | Liston Hall, Chapel St, Marlow | 07904 369829

Living Along The Thames | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

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Useful Numbers CLUBS: MAIDENHEAD Rotary Club of Maidenhead 632797 The Maidenhead Players 07879 476301 Maidenhead Drama Guild 635017 Maidenhead Operatic Society 671589 Maidenhead Musical Comedy Society 07813 979894 Grimm Players 820429 Maidenhead Concert Band 624514 Maidenhead Folk Club 448268 Tuesday Singers 629012 Athletics 522797 Maidenhead & Bray CC 07885 240209 North Maid enhead 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 Belmont Badminton Club 638844 Scottish Dancing Club 628372 Stanley Spencer Gallery

471885

COOKHAM Tennis & Croquet 07968 173757 Line Dancing 486362 Petanque 417453 Cookham Bridge Rotary Club 07724 042708 Cookham & Bourne End Inner Wheel Club 07715 441713 Bourne End & Cookham Rotary 810967 HENLEY Rotary Club of Henley Bridge Henley Rowing Club Henley Players Henley Hawks Rugby Club Henley Cricket Club Lions Club of Henley Henley Bowling Club Henley Tennis Club Henley Hockey Club Henley Wednesday Bridge Club Henley Choral Society HADISC Badminton Club Henley Music School Henley Henley-on-Thames U3A

01491 628284 01491 573943 01491 636253 01491 574499 01491 577743 01491 576717 01491 579271 01491 572230 01491 576988 01491 573958 01491 576929 01491 577909 07989 396210 07901 674779

MARLOW Liston Hall 472558 Archaeology in Marlow 481792 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 484528 Tennis 483638 New Marlow Tennis Academy 488438 Rifle & Pistol Club 01494 676676 ALF (Longridge) 486595 Marlow & District Wine Society 483294 Marlow Museum 01628 482515 Marlow Society/History 476140 MOAS 07899 867757 Rotary Club 01494 530952 LETS 01494 523978 U3A 485220/488865 Community Choir 602581/661182 Railway Society 01494 488283 Choral Society 472998 Marlow Orators 07738 540287 COUNCIL SERVICES MARLOW Bus Services 0871 2002233 Marlow Information centre 483597/481717 Library 0845 2303232 Town Council 484024 Neighbourhood Watch - Nic Martin 01895 837220 Wycombe Council 01494 461000 RBWM Bus Services 0871 2002233 CIS 507587 Council Tax 683850 Library - Cox Green 673942 Library - Holyport Container 796555 Library - Maidenhead 796969 Library - Cookham 526147 Recycling 796474 Town Hall 683800 Youth & Community Centre 685999 Thames Valley Adventure Playground 628599 HENLEY Henley Library Henley Town Council

01491 575278 01491 576982

BOURNE END Library 524814 Community Centre 527502

WHAT’S ON AT CROWNE PLAZA MARLOW SEPTEMBER NITRO NINETIES — REWOUND AND RELOADED TRIBUTE NIGHT 7pm, Friday, 16th September A dynamic 90’s show featuring top West End stars with chart toppers from MC Hammer, Back Street Boys, Michael Jackson, Spice Girls, Britney Spears, Robbie Williams, Blur and much more! Includes a 2 course dinner, followed by music until 12.30am. Please book in advance at www.cpmarlow.co.uk/whats-on BOOK A TABLE OF 10 AND RECEIVE HALF A BOTTLE OF WINE PER PERSON FOR YOUR TABLE WHILST DINING.

£32.00 per person,

including Tribute Act and 2 course meal

TRIBUTE PACKAGE: PLAY AND STAY — £125.00 Includes Tribute Night, accommodation and full English breakfast for two.* Subject to availability

OCTOBER

KIDS’ SPOOKY MINI DISCO 4pm–7pm Friday, 28th October

ADULTS’ MONSTER MASH DISCO 8pm–1am Saturday, 29th October

Come to our Spooky Hallowe’en Disco for an afternoon of fangtastic fun. Prize for spookiest fancy dress costume. With Dave the Disco, face painters and bouncy castle.

Dare to come to our delightfully devilish Monster Mash, for a fangtastic night out. Dress to distress.

£15.00 per ticket (age 3–12), including dinner box;

0–2 YEARS OLD FREE, with no dinner box

Please book in advance at www.cpmarlow.co.uk/whats-on

FREE ADMISSION For more details of our fabulous events at Crowne Plaza Marlow, go to www.cpmarlow.co.uk/whats-on or call 01628 496 800.

Crowne Plaza Marlow, Fieldhouse Lane, Marlow, Buckinghamshire, SL7 1GJ. W: cpmarlow.co.uk | E: enquiries@cpmarlow.co.uk | T: 01628 496 800