Along the Thames for Marlow and Bourne End - Oct/Nov 2011 by Living Along theThames

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INANDAROUND MARLOW and BOURNE END

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2011

ALONG THE THAMES

contents Welcome to a bumper magazine for October/November. This is our biggest ever issue and we can’t wait to celebrate our 5th Birthday in December. We waited for Summer and it never came, now the night’s are drawing in and noticeably cooler so we have included some wonderful recipes to heat you up during these chillier months. As we have such a bumper issue we wish to thank our advertisers for their continued support - it just goes to prove that local supports local and that we are listening to your needs. We are always looking to improve the magazine and hopefully you will notice yet more changes in this issue including more of what is happening locally. We have some wonderful events going on around us. For example, Hedsor House held a Music Festival in their grounds which is set to become an annual event. The National Trust have just launched a series of walking festivals at their properties some of which are featured on page 65. There are some last minute city breaks featured on page 62 for anyone looking for last minute holiday ideas, or for something to do before the festive season is upon us. Many of our wonderful hotels in the local area are featuring with us this issue in the lead up to Christmas. If you haven’t yet made any plans then take a look at what they have to offer, especially if you are looking for party venues for this year. In addition we have all our usual features including: Motoring, Hair, Beauty, Health Home and Gardening Until next time, Happy Reading..........

features

regular features

6 Sally’s Smalltalk 10 Danesfield House Hotel & Spa 13 Hedsor House Music Festival 20 Reader Offer 25 The accidental landlord 36 Jon Boynton’s Olympic Dream 56 Business - CRM 62 Travel - City Breaks

10 Recipe: John Burton-Race 22 Garden 38 Fashion 42 Hair by Alexander 44 Beauty: Beauty for less 58 Motoring 70 Horoscopes 67 Community information 68 Out & about

PUBLISHER & EDITOR Serena Edwards

FRONT COVER

serena@AlongTheThames.co.uk

ADVERTISING For all enquiries please call t: 01628 771419 m: 07711 887107 e: office@AlongTheThames.co.uk CONTRIBUTORS

Harriet Subramanian, Alexander Parsons, Christine Chalkin, Kasia Cole, Jill Coleby, David Rhys Price John Burton-Race, Sally Todd, Shelagh Wright, Niki Schäfer, Michele Axisa, Jacky & Mark Bloomfield

ADDRESS

1 Bell Street, Maidenhead, Berks SL6 1BU

www.AlongTheThames.co.uk © Along the Thames 2011

Henley Show 2011

Courtesy of Universal Sky Pictures www.aerial-photograph.co.uk

ACCOUNTS

Accounts@AlongTheThames.co.uk

2011 DEADLINES December/January

11th November

Proud Sponsor of Along the Thames Creative Writing Prize at The views expressed in Along the Thames magazine are not necessarily the views of the editor/publisher. While all reasonable care is taken to ensure accuracy of our content, the publisher cannot accept liability for errors/ omissions relating to the editorial/advertising in this publication or for loss rising as a result. No part of the contents of this publication can be reproduced without the express permission of the authors and is protected by copyright.

Advertising Feature

Victoria House Day Nursery opens in the heart of Marlow Little Zoe Bingham may not be two years old yet but for the past few months she has had a new day nursery in the heart of Marlow named after her. The new Childbase nursery in Victoria Road, was affectionately known as ‘Zoe’s Nursery’ during re-building works because she was the first child enrolled. Following a private visit to ‘her’ nursery, on the site of the old Red Cross Hall in Marlow, Zoe was greeted by newly-elected deputy Mayor of Marlow, Cllr. Suzanne Brown, and Childbase CEO, Mike Thompson, when the doors to Victoria House were opened to all children on September 12th. Mrs. Bingham, a recruitment consultant newly arrived in Marlow, later explained: “Childbase nurseries came highly recommended and following a visit to Mulberry in Maidenhead I was confident that Victoria House would be perfect for Zoe. After two days, she is already bonding with her key worker, Natasha, and clearly enjoying her surroundings. I am very happy,” she said. Victoria House is the second new day nursery in the employee-owned company, Childbase, to open this year. Of the 41 day nurseries and a school operating in the South of England, nearly half are rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted making Childbase a leader in early years provision nationwide. Victoria House Manager, Karen Vockins, who has worked in the childcare sector for 18 years, said she is looking forward to showing off the new facilities, which can cater for 48 children aged from six weeks to 5 years, to prospective parents and children. “I have a team of highly trained and motivated staff who are committed to recognising and celebrating each child’s individuality. A confident and secure child will forge friendships and thrive on new experiences so the path to learning and realising their full potential is then established,” said Karen. A qualified aerobics instructor and a trained singer, Karen said she was looking forward to encouraging the children in her care in these pursuits. “Singing, acting and exercise are not only fun and instrumental in overcoming shyness and engaging children, they also 4

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Zoe & Mum

provide an important basis for learning about, and promoting, a healthy lifestyle,” she said. Victoria House has three bright and airy, age-appropriate, rooms offering children the opportunity to dream in a fairy wigwam; role play in the home corners with little kitchens and equipment, or enjoy learning at an interactive ‘Smart Board’. Cosy book areas, teddies, dolls and toys fill each room and a tranquil homelike ‘sleep room’ is a perfect haven for the under 2’s at nap-time. All rooms have access to a large enclosed garden which offers a variety of natural surfaces like grass, pebbles and bark with paths leading through areas of interest. A timber fort with flagpole and ‘outside exploration stations’ for studying mini-beasts and natural ‘finds’ are just some of the attractions, while the herb garden and a vegetable patch enable the children to plant, grow and harvest food providing the basis for ‘lessons’ in conservation and healthy eating. The under 2’s have their own enclosed decked area for safe outside fun. Solar panels are just one of the environmentally friendly features of the building which will also be powered by green energy, Ecotricity, which makes electricity from the sun and wind. Celebrating individuality and diversity is at the heart of the Childbase approach to early years provision. By working closely with parents, staff gain a thorough understanding of each child’s background, needs, interests and capabilities and by continual observation and interaction they can build on what the child knows and plan for their

continued development. Innovative and inspirational ideas are adapted for each of the different age groups to support the principles laid out in the statutory EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage) so that learning is always fun. Operating under the banner ‘We all contribute, We all benefit” Childbase is a Sunday Times Top 100 company to work for, achieving 23rd place this year and second place overall for its commitment to training and career development for its workforce. Childbase has four National Training Awards to its credit, is a finalist in this year’s prestigious National Business Awards and was named ‘Outstanding’ in the Best Companies Accreditation system missing out on ‘Extraordinary’ status by just four points. Anyone wishing to visit Victoria House for a personal tour of the facilities should contact the nursery on

01628 488548.

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The original, largest and still the best network of performing arts b be sschools in the world.

Nurturing and developing young peoples potential through dance, drama and singing. F For 4-18 year olds, after school, at weekends and holiday workshops. we

Stagecoach High Wycombe & Marlow is now taking bookings for next term

Call: 01494 533203 email: highwycombe@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/highwycombe

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Sally’s Smalltalk You know when your parents are getting old when...

t comes to us all, does old age. Or at least we would all like to think that we are going to live to a ripe old age. I personally would like to grow old enough to become a nuisance to my children and have them look after me in my twilight years. These days we rely on our parents for an awful lot more than perhaps our parents did on theirs. With the increase in women working and the manic pace at which we lead our lives, we have come to depend on our parents in a numerous ways. It is not uncommon for us to ask them to look after our children on a regular basis, help out with housework, be there to support us emotionally when times are hard, and pretty much be a major support system to our everyday lives. In short, I reckon I pretty much take my parents for granted and give little thought to how old they actually are. However the other day I took my mum shopping and suddenly it became as clear as a slap in the face that my parents are in their midseventies now and I need to stop relying on them so much for, well, just about everything and start giving back a bit of support. Here are a few of the tell-tale signs that I have noticed: • Your parents may repeat themselves several times in conversation. Early signs are when they tell you a piece of news or something they did when they were young and a few weeks later tell you again, and a few weeks later again and so on. This isn’t so bad we all do that occasionally, tell a story and forget who we have told and tell it again. It is when they start doing it within the same conversation that you need to worry! • When your mum’s make up is not restricted to the area it is 6

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intended for. The most specific one is probably eye make-up. She will have had to remove her specs to apply and of course whilst removing them, she has incidentally removed her vision! • Your parents’ idea of an exciting day out consists of a trip to the local garden centre for lunch. However on reflection this is now no longer regarded as exciting for my parents, as all garden centres have cashed in on the spend happy mummies looking for somewhere to offload their kids so they can drink coffee and chat. Garden centres are now no more that soft play centres with a few plants scattered about for effect. If anyone has any alternatives my mum will be most happy to try them out! • All gossip, local information or any news worth hearing is gleaned from the doctors’ receptionist and as such is considered the absolute truth. • Your parents have stopped going out so much and if they do, it’s to a friend’s house. But to be honest what they like to do best is peruse the Radio Times (for young people reading this, the Radio Times is a printed publication with television programme times in, pre-dating remote controls, the internet, teletext and come to think of it, television!) and settle down to re-runs of any murder mystery programmes. • When you take them shopping they point out all the spaces within close proximity to the working lifts. I kid you not they know which ones work, which don’t and which are the fastest and nearest to Marks and Spencer. • Also whilst out shopping, gone are the days that your mum will

meander about the rails and aisles aimlessly with you, offering advice on which outfit you should wear to Doris’s wedding. Neither will she stand waiting for you whilst you see how many sweets you can stuff into the pick and mix in Wilkinson’s. Oh no. As you continue to chat incessantly, you turn and look to her for a response and she is gone, nowhere to be seen. You extend your gaze to the middle of the shop to find your mum sitting on a deck chair in the garden furniture room set watching the world go by as if she hasn’t a care in the world. It is at this point that you sadly realise that maybe Westfields for Christmas shopping this year is probably not the best idea. What about dads though? What are the tell-tale signs? The biggest one has to be when they are genuinely grateful to receive nothing more than a box of vanilla fudge and some chocolate limes for their birthday. But we must not forget that the appearance of the flat cap whilst driving 30 miles an hour, EVERYWHERE and the fact that your dads car has a bash, dink or scrape on every panel of the car which he has no recollection of doing, are also pretty much dead giveaways . So I as I selfishly struggle to clutch onto my thirties I feel I should release my grip a little and give a thought to my wonderful parents who have done so much for me. It is time to give a little back and offer the same support and companionship that they have offered me over the years. Look out for us; we will be visiting a garden centre near you soon! If you would like to share your ideas with Sally, please contact us at office@alongthethames.co.uk and we will pass on all comments

The House that Jack Built 59/61 Marlow Bottom Marlow Bottom Bucks SL7 3NA 56 Place purpose built children’s nursery

For more information Visit www.thtjb-daynursery.co.uk call Claire on 01628 481601 or email info@thtjb-daynursery.co.uk Are you looking for exceptional childcare? The House that Jack Built (Day Nursery) Limited has just been awarded “Outstanding” at one of their nurseries and is amongst one of the few nursery chains to have an Early Years Professional within its dedicated team of staff. We strive to offer: A loving and homely environment where young babies feel safe and secure High quality childcare providing an environment of rich learning experiences Caring, committed and enthusiastic staff A strong partnership with parents Registered to care for children aged from 0 to 5 years Open 51 weeks of the year Monday to Friday Opening times are 7.30am – 6.30pm Breakfast, lunch and tea all provided and freshly prepared by our dedicated chef Are you looking for a career in childcare? please call us for more information and an informal chat

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just say ‘non’

Happy Birthday .....

have been reading a book written by a French woman who advocates freeing yourself from the oppression of motherhood. Some of her top tips include – be a woman first, then a mother; never be a slave to your children; and (my personal favourite) drink a glass of wine every day. As I read it, I found myself agreeing with nearly every point. Raising children is stressful. But somewhere hidden within the text of the book, and many others like it, comes the idea that it all boils down to commonsense: - and saying no. A good idea is to look at your own upbringing. I can remember being a teenager (just) and I can tell you now that apart from the odd “get off the phone” I don’t recall my parents being stressed by my behaviour.

It seems like only yesterday that Westmount Music placed their first advert with this publication, but birthday celebrations are now underway, as it is now twelve months since they began retailing from their shop in Marlow Bottom. As well as focusing on getting the balance and mix of products and services right, they have spent much of the last twelve months introducing initiatives such as a very popular tutor room, a keenly supported membership scheme, flexible instrument rental plan and

Drop down The letters to the left belong in the squares immediately to the right, but not necessarily in the given order. When entered correctly, they reveal the names of five breeds of dog, reading downwards.

My parents always supported me but they didn’t spend all their time worrying. When they felt something was not appropriate they just said no. And I accepted it. End of story. Their social lives were important to them. I wouldn’t call it neglect, just a simple fact that they had lives too and if I wanted to do something and they were busy it was hard cheese. I sometimes find myself dropping everything to accede to a child’s request. How ridiculous is that? Maybe we should be a little more like our parents were? How hard can saying no be? Go on – give it a try. If all else fails, there’s always that glass of wine to look forward to. Vanessa Woolley Answer on page 72 8

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..... ............. Westmount Music a new and improved instrument repair and set-up service. The shop also announced recently that they have teamed up with specialist brass and woodwind shop, Dawkes & Windcraft of Maidenhead, as they continue to improve their instrument repair services. As featured last month in ATT, the recently launched loyalty membership scheme enables customers to earn points, for both purchases and rentals, for themselves and for their chosen participating school. These points are redeemable in the shop and on an exclusive member website. Paul Coombes, shop owner says, “it rewards our customers for their loyalty and patronage and at the same time supports local schools. We like to think it’s a win-win situation for all involved ” The shop has been very busy recently with the very successful back to school promotion, as

featured in the last issue of ATT, helping to make September the busiest month yet for the shop. Employee Katy Greene, “We always wanted the shop to be a part of the community and we are very pleased at the support we have received from the local people and schools…we hope that we have justified that support by giving our customers the best possible service that we can”. However there is no time for Team Westmount to rest on their laurels. With Christmas just around the corner, they intend to offer the best possible choice of products, from stocking fillers to something more substantial from Santa’s sleigh, along with their particular brand of excellent family friendly service. So if you want to give something musical this Christmas, why not try Westmount Music soon and beat Santa to all the best buys!

www.westmount -music.co.uk

01628 481510

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Smoked Haddock Risotto, sweet corn, oyster mushrooms and a quail egg

by John Burton-Race

Consultant Executive Chef, Sanctum on the Green, Cookham Dean

Serves 4 For the Butter sauce 2 shallots, finely chopped 1 garlic clove, peeled and chopped 1 thyme sprig 1 tarragon sprig 1 bay leaf Â˝ tsp white peppercorns, crushed 250g unsalted butter, diced 2tbsp white wine vinegar 2tbsp white wine 2 tbsp double cream Salt Squeeze of lemon juice Put the shallots, garlic, herbs and crushed pepper corns in a small saucepan with 20g of the butter and heat gently, stirring until the butter is melted. Add the white wine vinegar and boil to reduce until syrupy. Add the wine and reduce again until syrupy. Pour in the cream and as soon as it boils, lower the heat. Add the butter piece by piece, stirring constantly until itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all melted and you have a smooth sauce. Season with salt and lemon juice to taste. Pour the sauce through a fine sieve into another small pan and keep warm until ready to serve. For the Smoked haddock risotto 1.2kg smoked haddock 600ml milk 1 Onion, peeled and halved 12 Bay leaves 8 black pepper corns 5 sprigs of thyme 150g unsalted butter 3 Banana shallots, diced 1 clove garlic, puree 600g risotto rice 160ml Madeira 250g parmesan grated 1.5l chicken stock 400g oyster mushrooms 250g fresh sweet corn, cooked 50g chives, chopped 200ml butter sauce 250g pea shoots (1 punnet) Place the fish in a saucepan with the milk, bay leaves, pepper corns and thyme. Place on the heat and bring to the boil, set aside for 10 minutes to finish cooking. Remove the haddock from the milk (keep the milk) and cut into 50g fingers. Flake the excess fish and reserve for the risotto. Heat the chicken stock in a saucepan. In another pan heat half the butter, add the 10

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shallots and garlic, sweat off until soft. Stir in the rice, add the Madeira and reduce dry. Add a ladle at a time of the hot chicken stock and half the haddock milk (too much and it will be to strong in flavour), just covering the rice. Reduce the stock, stirring regularly. Repeat this process until your rice is just cooked. Finish the risotto with butter, parmesan and adjust the seasoning to taste. Add the sweet corn and oyster mushrooms, cook for a further 45 seconds. Stir in the flaked haddock and chives. Serve straight away. Meanwhile heat the haddock fingers gently in the rest of the milk, lay neatly on top of the risotto. Top with a warm quail egg, teaspoon of butter sauce and pea shoots.

SANCTUM ON THE GREEN ROYAL BERKSHIRE

It’s Christmas ! Come one and Come all! Enjoy festive dining with friends, colleagues or the family at Sanctum on the Green this Christmas. Our restaurant and private conservatory are extremely versatile and can be used to suit your particular requirements Choose from one of three group dining menus or we can tailor a menu to suit your speciﬁc requirements. Christmas Group dining packages available from £25, £35 and £45 per person (min numbers 8) Restaurant book-out option available on request (for up to 40 guests) Exclusive dinner and dancing option available on request (for up to 50 guests) For further details please email: sophie@sanctumonthegreen.com www.sanctumonthegreen.com

On Saturday 17th September, AlongTheThames were delighted to be invited to Hedsor 2011. Hedsor 2011 was a one-night charity festival in aid of the East Africa famine and Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF). MSF is one of the leading charities fighting the East Africa famine so really could not be a worthier charity. Every single penny raised from the event went to the charity. The event was held on the lawns of the beautiful Hedsor house and organized immaculately by Nick, Mark and Hamish Shephard, the family who own Hedsor. The 750-guest party was brimming with society faces as well as many local ones to provide a fantastic audience for this incredible event. The theme was “Welcome to the Jungle” and the second we stepped foot inside Hedsor Park the adventure began… “Welcome to Hedsor Safari Park” bellows a khaki-dressed guard as we head down the kilometer-long Hedsor drive. Soon we are by lead through the historic Hedsor woods into “The Jungle”. African drum beats echo through the woods as we pass by ‘dinosaur nests’ and ‘hippo wallows’ and a huge sense of anticipation builds! Suddenly the awe-inspiring Hedsor House appears through a clearing and the event lies before us. A huge 8-metre gorilla sits next to the stunning venue whilst an equally tall elephant wanders through the crowds. A life-size prop 12

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rhino stands in the middle of the arena whilst a zebra is silhouetted on the horizon. Six marquees encircle the African camp and a huge stage rises out and over the guests. High above the event whip two gigantic animal-print balloon lines flicking through the sky like giant tentacles. A pride of leopards pounce on me… with charity buckets. Of course the guests are all fancy dressed too! Lions, Pocahontas, Aztec kings and more - I don’t think I have ever seen so much leopard print ever! Suddenly I find myself pushing through bamboo and banana palms to enter ‘The Watering Hole Bar’. Peroni Nastro Azzurro, Westons Cider and Bordeaux Wine Investments have all sponsored the event the delicious drinks flow freely. 250 African drums drum out to announce the jungle feast is served. Feast is the perfect description. It was incredible. Sponsored by Delhicious Foods, guests are treated to an amazing array of Asian food. Tandoori ovens roar into the night’s sky whilst the aroma of colossal woks wafts through the guests. And then one of the best musical line-ups I have ever heard begins. The headline and highlight was Shlomo, the world’s leading beatboxer and whose family live just moments from Hedsor. The spectacular of a sea of face-painted faces bouncing higher and higher at his performance really was unforgettable.

Hedsor really did excel itself for this event. Having been to many events before at Hedsor every time I see it I am blown away by its homeliness and flexibility. From hosting intimate meetings, award-winning weddings or Jungle parties – it is a wonderful venue. I hope to be back in the Hedsor jungle soon! e: info@hedsor.com t: 01628 819050 w: www.hedsor.com Photography courtesy of Adam Trigg and John Helm

at Hedsor House Hedsor House is one of the most beautiful private houses in the UK and a unique setting for your Christmas party. Hedsor House is only 40 minutes from Central London and is set in its own private 85-acre estate in Taplow, Buckinghamshire. Choose between Christmas Party Packages from £85+vat with catering provided by Rhubarb, one of the country’s leading caterers, or Exclusive Use Hire for bespoke Christmas events. Perfect for parties of 80 – 140 in the main house or marquee parties for up to 1000 guests.

01628 819050 • www.hedsor.com • info@hedsor.com ALONG THE THAMES

Winter Warmers Pork Goulash

This spicy pork dish uses the remainder of the Sunday pork roast and makes an ideal mid week supper. Based on a Goulash recipe from Hungary, it is simple to prepare and cook. Serve with baked potatoes sour cream and chives. Serves 6-8 You will need... 3 tablespoons olive oil 1 kg cooked pork leg or shoulder diced into chunks 1 tablespoon caraway seeds or fennel seeds 2 medium onions peeled and sliced 3 red chillies deseeded and chopped * 200g sliced roasted peppers (from jar or char grilled and peeled) 3 cloves garlic peeled crushed and chopped 2-3 tablespoon paprika powder * 3 bay leaves 2 tablespoons tomato puree 500ml stock & gravy (ideally saved from the roast joint meal) 1x400ml Tin of tomatoes (Use 2 if no gravy/stock available) 1 Courgette sliced into rounds 150g whole button mushrooms 1 tablespoon caster sugar Juice of 1 lemon Sea salt & ground black pepper 2 Tablespoons soured cream or plain white yoghurt 1 Bunch of chives chopped. * guideline only - change for your own taste.

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Heat oil in large saucepan, and fry off the onion ,chilli garlic and fennel/caraway seeds for about 5 minutes. Then add all the fresh vegetables, and fry for a further 3-4 minutes. Add the sliced peppers, pork, stock tomatoes and puree, and all the remaining ingredients except the sour cream and chives. Bring to boil and simmer on a minimum heat in saucepan with the lid on for 55-60 minutes. Remove and serve with a topping of sour cream/yoghurt and sprinkle with the chives

Tagliatelli with Chorizo This simple recipe makes a delightful light supper, with just a hint of spice. Chorizo is one of the principal ingredients so for a vegetarian option, just leave out the chorizo and substitute with grilled, peeled, and chopped red pepper diced into small pieces. Serves 4-6

You will need... 500g tagliatelli or fettuccine 3 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon butter/margarine Pinch of salt. 150g aubergine cooked under grill for 10 minutes and diced 70g button mushroom chopped 1 medium onion chopped 100g piece of chorizo diced into small chunks 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and black pepper 1dessert spoon of paprika

I am a Maidenhead based cookery writer, and Internet Chef. I am passionate about all aspects of cooking, and through my’ spiced up’ recipes, I aim to bring the enjoyment and beneﬁts of spicy food, to a wider readership. David Rhys Price -The ‘Spicy Chef ’

2 tablespoons parmesan cheese Sprigs of fresh basil/oregano for cooking and garnish In a wok use 1 tablespoon of oil and fry off onion and chilli for five minutes. Add the chorizo, cooked aubergine and some chopped basil/oregano, and cook for further 3 minutes. Mix together the garlic powder, paprika and black pepper and make sure you coat the mixture all over. Remove from heat and set aside. Place tagliatelli/ fettuccine in a large saucepan of boiling lightly salted water, and simmer for 15 minutes or until just cooked. Remove from saucepan and drain in colander. Place oil and the butter/ margarine in the same saucepan, and heat until the butter melts. Stir in the drained tagliatteli, and the onion and chorizo mix, and stir well. Once mixed through serve and top with parmesan cheese, and basil leafs

Tagiatelli with Chorizo

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Danesfield House Hotel and Spa

Danesfield House Hotel and Spa, perched high on the hill above the Henley Road, looks out over the River Thames, as it meanders its way through the valley between Marlow and Henley. Originally built in 1901 as a private home, the imposing white neo-Tudor mansion has enjoyed a colourful career, as a boys’ school, a base for the intelligence section of the Royal Air Force during World War II and a corporate headquarters. This year Danesfield House celebrates its 20th year as a luxury country house hotel and if you are yet to discover this hidden gem, you really should. Exclusive yet still retaining a relaxed and comfortable feel, Danesfield House is the perfect place to escape for a weekend away, stress-busting Spa Break, Pilates Weekend or as the venue location for a fairy tale Wedding Day you’ll never forget. First stop upon arrival is the aptly named Grand Hall, with its beautiful baronial fireplace and plush sofas and armchairs. There can be few better places in which to cosy up with the morning paper, a fresh pot of coffee and a plate of delicious homemade biscuits or Afternoon Tea. The Danesfield House Afternoon Tea is famous and this quintessentially British tradition can be enjoyed outside on the terrace or inside the elegant Orangery restaurant – both of which

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command magnificent views out over 65 acres of manicured gardens. The Orangery is a popular choice for lunch, tempting visitors with a varied menu devised by Michelin Star Chef, Adam Simmonds. Choose from a seasonal selection of dishes this autumn, which include a melt-in-themouth Braised Oxtail, Celeriac Gratin and Red Cabbage Purée, and Fillet of Sea Bass served with Roast Courgette, Pak Choy, Clams and Chorizo. Traditional roast lunches are served in the Orangery* every Sunday – the perfect opportunity for family to enjoy fantastic food together (and no-one has to do the washing up!) Tucked away beside the Orangery in the opulent dining room designed by Anouska Hempel and home to the Adam Simmonds Restaurant recently named 12th best restaurant in the country by The Good Food Guide 2012. Tipped as one of the top British chefs to watch this decade, Simmonds lives up to a list of impressive accolades by creating amazing modern European food. Connected to the main hotel by a glass walkway is the Danesfield House Spa, reserved for the exclusive use of hotel residents and Spa members. Winner of several national spa awards, including Condé Nast Johansens Most Excellent Spa in the UK, it’s home to an azure-blue 20 metre ozone-cleansed pool, Jacuzzi, steam

rooms and Saunas plus a gym area equipped with TechnoGym equipment. New for this autumn, the spa is welcoming exclusive beauty brand, Aromatherapy Associates, to a full and decadent treatment list that also includes CARITA, Jessica and St Tropez. As part of Danesfield House’s 20th birthday celebrations, Aromatherapy Associates have created a bespoke signature treatment exclusive to the hotel - the ultimate treat for yourself or a loved one, as the festive season approaches. Tempted? Then come and see for yourself all that Danesfield House has to offer. A warm welcome awaits all visitors to the hotel and its award-winning restaurants and Spa. Just one word of warning – once you’ve arrived, you may never want to leave… For more information on Adam Simmonds restaurant, the Spa, special residential packages and offers, telephone:: 01628 891010 UPCOMING EVENTS: Wedding open Day on Sunday 16th October 11.30am - 3pm and Concert Evening on 25th November visit the website for more detail

www.danesfieldhouse.co.uk Danesfield House Hotel & Spa, Henley Road, Marlow Bucks, SL7 2EY

*Seasonal lunch menu from £19.50/person for 2 courses at the Orangery, available Monday to Saturday.

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Danesfield House boasts a variety of beautiful private dining suites accommodating groups from 10 to 100

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!&0 , - /16 - Buffet just £49 per person * /.2"" - /1&"0 - Accommodating up to 250 guests ',&+ - /16 +&$%10 - from £59.50 per person Ideal for groups of friends, colleagues or clients, celebrate in style this year with a Join-a-Party at Danesfield House. Party nights include a glass of Prosecco, three course Banqueting Menu designed by Michelin Starred chef Adam Simmonds, half a bottle of wine, half a bottle of mineral water, festive novelties and superb music! / 1 - ( 1/& 21" +&$%10 - 9th and 16th December !&0 , - /16 +&$%10 - 1st, 2nd, 15th, 22nd and 23rd December ' +2 /6 - /16 +&$%10 - 5th, 6th, 12th and 13th January Call the Events Team on 01628 897601 or email events@danesfieldhouse.co.uk #&3" ,2/0" 1/ !&1&,+ ) %/&01* 0 ! 6 )2+ % - just £135 per person +"4 6" / 0 "3" ) ( 1&" )) Only £145 per person or £275 including luxury accommodation & New Year’s Day Brunch Call Reservations on 01628 897607 or email reservations@danesfieldhouse.co.uk

For further details please visit our website www.danesfieldhouse.co.uk

1%" ,/ +$"/6 1 ! +"0#&")! %,20" Superb cuisine served within the Orangery restaurant overlooking acres of beautiful gardens and the river Thames

• Two courses £19.50 • Three Courses £23.50 • Please bring this voucher with you to enjoy our fantastic offer Should you wish to be kept informed of our latest news and offers, please provide your email address:

One Michelin Star in Michelin Guide Great Britain and Ireland AA Four Red Rosettes for Culinary Excellence 12th Top UK Restaurant 2012 awarded by the Good Food Guide 2012 Condé Nast Johansens Most Excellent Hotel Meeting Venue 2010 Most Relaxing Spa UK 2011 awarded by Natural Health Magazine Spa Awards

Danesfield House Hotel and Spa | Henley Road | Marlow | Buckinghamshire | SL7 2EY T: 01628 891010 W: www.danesfieldhouse.co.uk

F: 01628 890408 E: events@danesfiedlhouse.co.uk

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Aubergine hosts an intimate dinner with football icon Les Ferdinand One of the biggest names in British football, Les Ferdinand MBE, will be a very special guest at an intimate sports dinner held on November 2 at one of Buckinghamshire’s most idyllic locations; Aubergine at The Compleat Angler. Les’s football playing career included spells at Queens Park Rangers, Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United, Bolton Wanderers and Reading as well as a number of appearances for England. He became the first player to score for 6 different Premier League clubs and is joint fifth highest scorer of all time in the Premier League with 149 goals. He will go down in history as one of the best headers of the ball and is one of only 4 players to ever score back to back hatricks. Les is currently coaching at Spurs and is a regular pundit on the BBC and Sky Sports Guests will have the opportunity to have a meet and greet with Les as well as take part in an intimate question and answer session.

There will be photo opportunities and a chance to have any memorabilia brought along signed by the man himself. On the night there will also be signed club shirts to bid for, with all proceeds going to Les’ chosen charity UK Cancer Research. Guests will enjoy a cocktail upon arrival, a four course gourmet meal, a sommelier selected bottle of wine per person, mineral water, tea, coffee, petit fours and an after dinner cocktail. The ticket price is £195 per head, including VAT and service. There are only 45 places available for this unique and exciting event so book now on 01628 405 405 to avoid disappointment.

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Along the Thames reader offer stock up your kitchen and cut down on shopping trips Riverford delivers award-winning organic food fresh from their farm straight to your door. There’s nothing Riverford doesn’t know about fruit and veg (they’ve been growing it for 25 years) but the farm has plenty more to offer. Choose from a range of weekly organic essentials like eggs, milk, meat, juice and cereal, and even wine and chocolate when you need a treat. Delivery is free and you don’t need to be at home.

get inspired and cook seasonally You’ll want to make the most of all that fresh seasonal food and Riverford makes it easy. With each delivery your local vegman and lady, Tim

and Jacqui Rix, will bring a newsletter with up to eight new recipes to inspire you to feed your family better. Forget boring boiled vegetables: swap them for sweet and tasty honey-glazed carrots or grilled courgettes and tomatoes with basil dressing. Riverford’s website www.riverford. co.uk is bursting with even more recipes. And if you ever run out of ideas, just ask Tim and Jacqui for help. Or look in the Riverford Farm Cook Book - free when you try a vegbox today.

easy to order Ordering is easy and fl exible. Riverford delivers weekly, fortnightly or whenever suits and you can stop and start deliveries as often as you like - there’s no contract or tie in. Organic vegboxes start from just £9.85 with free delivery.

free cook book or vegbox Try a Riverford vegbox today and get a free copy of the awardwinning Riverford Farm Cook Book worth £16.99 with your 3rd delivery (when you place a regular order, new customers only). Just the thing to get your vegpacked routine off to a fresh start! Or, if you prefer, you can have your 3rd vegbox free instead.

Find out more at www. riverford.co.uk or call your vegman and lady, Tim and Jacqui, on 01494 863370. 20

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a new garden - step by step Last time we talked about planting ... you should now have a lovely collection of texture and colour with seasonal surprises to come in the spring ... now you have to nurture and coax your garden to its full potential. Looking after a garden full of newly planted treasures can be a bit daunting, but the only things you really need to do is water and weed. New plants need plenty of water, especially in windy weather when moisture easily evaporates. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just spray the leaves, water each plant down at the base with a hose or watering can for a count of ten. Whilst the plants are establishing and expanding to fill their space you will need to keep the ground in between clear of weeds, new soil provides an excellent environment for weed seeds .... better to hoe them out while they are small, than wait for them to grow and seed themselves! Checking regularly and keeping on top of this task allows you to sit back and enjoy the garden. Take time to think about the finishing touches â&#x20AC;&#x201C; perhaps some pots or a feature to provide a focal point or a lovely view from the house. These flourishes can really give the final magic to a garden and make it a satisfying and rewarding addition to your home all year round. Happy Gardening! By Marlow Gardeners Jill Coleby and Vanessa Faulkner

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By Appointment To Her Majesty The Queen Tree Surgeons The F.A Brtlett Tree Expert Company Ltd

All Aspects of Tree Surgery Soil Analysis Pest and Disease Control Tree Consultancy Lightening Protection Mature Tree Planting and Transplanting Stump Grinding/Removal Contractors Arboricultural Association Approved

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Fatsia Japonica – Japanese Aralia Often incorrectly called the Castor Oil Plant, this architectural evergreen with huge, glossy leaves looks like it should be a houseplant. However, it’s perfect for growing in deep shade on heavy clay soils and there aren’t many plants that survive those criteria. It needs to be in a sheltered spot and is fully hardy in most of Britain. There is also a variegated form with creamy edges to the leaves but this is not suitable for outdoors and should be kept inside. Fatsia grows between 3m to 6m tall with an impressive spread. Happy, mature plants produce spheres of tiny, creamy white flowers and if you’re very lucky, these will be followed by dark purple seed heads. Keep well watered and fed throughout the summer. As with all evergreens the old leaves do have to fall at some point. On the Fatsia this can look alarming as the leaves droop and turn yellow. This happens towards the base of the main stem. New leaves will be produced though, and you can encourage bushier growth by pinching out the growing tips. Fatsia japonica is the perfect choice of plant to give a sunless corner a dramatic, lush, tropical look.

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Bourne End Electrical All your electrical needs catered for. Quick and efficient service Test

& Certification New Fuse Boards Upgrades & Repairs Interior & Exterior Wiring Outside Security Lights Switches and Outlets Ring Stephen on 01628 850968 07790 546975 CRB checked & member of 'ELECSA'

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The Window Doctor CARE & REPAIR FOR ALL YOUR UPVC & ALUMINIUM WINDOW & DOOR PROBLEMS

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the accidental landlord! I

n the current financial climate more and more people are finding themselves in the position of being first time or â&#x20AC;&#x153;accidental landlordsâ&#x20AC;?. Where once you would have sold a property now a stronger proposition is often to rent it out. Whether you have inherited a property, you are relocating for work, moving in with a partner and do not want to sell your main asset or find you need to let out your parents house to fund care home costs - whatever the reason, letting a property for the first time can be a daunting prospect! The first step is to understand the true rental potential for your property, there are often some things you can do to increase that rental. This does not always mean complete refurbishment; a new door on kitchen cupboards, replacing tiles, decorating does not have to cost a fortune but can significantly increase the monthly rent. The legal aspects also need to be understood, safety certificates for gas and potentially electric and to have an energy performance certificate for the property. Confirmation that the lender, if you have a mortgage on the property, will give permission for it to be let. An important decision is whether or not you wish to manage the property; do you want to deal directly with the

tenants on a day to day basis or do you wish an agent to take care of things for you? At Key Letts we offer an initial, no obligation meeting where we can advise you of the potential rental for your property with a specifically produced report for your area and discuss the legal obligations as well as giving advice based on your property and requirements. Here is what just one of our first time landlords said about us: I wanted to write and let all landlords and prospective tenants know that I have been extremely impressed with the level of service you have given to me in finding a suitable tenant for my property. I have never before rented out a property and therefore your guidance has been invaluable and you answered all questions I raised and made it abundantly clear what both the tenants and my obligations were. I will not hesitate to recommend Libby and Denis Miguel from Key Letts to anyone thinking of becoming a tenant or landlord as I am confident that they will be as equally impressed as I have been.

Whatever the reason you find yourself in a position to let a property why not give us a call today to discuss your requirements on 01494 842100. Key Letts is a family run Letting Agent based in High Wycombe, experienced landlords ourselves we pride ourselves on our level of service and expertise, take a look at our website www.keyletts.com/landlord.html

and watch our videos on the Key Letts TV page to learn more. Look out for more information about us in the February/March addition of Along The Thames Denis & Libby Miguel

www.keyletts.com email info@keyletts.com

TEL: 01494 842100

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From strength to strength, Hyperion Tiles After eight years in Marlow, Hyperion Tiles is going from strength to strength. Company Director, Richard Skeoch, has recently taken over the Ascot branch and is working with his co-director David Carozzi. The previous owner and showroom manager, Graham Oliver has now semi-retired. The Ascot showroom is currently being revamped, and Hyperion Tiles are extending their collection from Italy to cater for their middle to top end clients. Each shop will have a different product range to cater for clients’ design tastes in each area. When an interior designer needs inspiration or a property developer needs the perfect porcelain tiles, this is where they come. When a builder needs a floor surface perfect for underfloor heating or a family move into a new home and Marlow 72 West Street Marlow, Bucks SL7 2BP Tel: 01628 475888 26

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need advice on bathrooms, this is where they come. Hyperion Tiles in Marlow and Ascot welcome homeowners to hoteliers. They advise on projects large and small and feel privileged to be able to offer their expertise and their wide range of products, from Tiles in Marlow has Hyperion the most comprehensive and unusual selection of tiles we have ever seen. A designer’s ‘kid-in-acandy store’ experience



Quote from Bathroom Designer Pauline Heffernan

highest standard, advise on creative as well as practical usage and then install all surfaces proficiently in every environment – kitchens, bathrooms, swimming pools, outdoors or grand entrance halls. The showroom staff are welcoming and experts in their field, and the fitters are not only technically outstanding they are also courteous, respectful and reliable. Go to www.hyperiontiles. co.uk for some inspiration, but nothing can compare to visiting the showrooms for a guided tour and the best advice.

cutting edge designer collections to timeless classics. “Everyone’s home is their castle,” says Richard, “and we respect that. Our clients are our number one priority.” The Hyperion Tiles team has an enormous wealth of experience, able to source materials of the Ascot 67 High Street Ascot, Berks SL5 7HP Tel: 01344 620211

Step into a new world Touch the quality. See the style. Feel the difference.

Step into one of our showrooms to experience why we are the number one boutique supplier of the most innovative ranges outside London.

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Tel: 01344 620211

Tel: 01628 475888

www.hyperiontiles.com

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Invite Autumn into your home I must be one of the only women I know who detests clothes shopping! But what I actually gain from browsing through the racks of clothes, shoes, hats and scarves is inspiration for interior design. After all, clothes fashion on the high street inevitably ends up in our homes in our furnishings and colour schemes. On a recent shopping, or should I say ‘browsing’ spree I enjoyed savouring this Autumn’s collection of clothes and accessories: Animal prints are making a big statement - from leopard skin or zebra stripes to faux cow hide. And what a pleasure it was to run my fingers along the plush rich velvets and the fluffy cashmeres, which are exquisitely soft to the skin - then the colours! - beautiful berry, mustard, muted bronze and gold colours. Yes, Autumn is upon us! Animal prints and cashmere work really well in soft furnishings. Use both in throws for your bed or draped over the sofa. Velvet cushions in plum, blackberry and burgundy tones, perhaps mixed in with some amber and gold ones bring an Autumn warmth and instant cosiness to any room.

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If you really appreciate the warm rich colours of Autumn don’t be afraid of feature walls either painted, or wallpapered with large scale chintz type prints or bold stripes. Faux suede armchairs and dark wood furniture can give a real ‘boutique hotel’ feel to your living room. And why not be a little more adventurous and try something like a wooden trunk or ottoman in place of the more traditionally used coffee table.

most windows, but for taller rooms in older properties, drapery works. Venetian blinds (with their wooden slats) are useful for north facing rooms so that the light bounces around the room.

The lights go back on again! Opt for table lamps and don’t shy away from different shapes, styles and sizes, rather than uniform pairs, so that your lamps are ornamental as well as functional.

So for me, as my animal print clothes days are now long gone, the only way I’ll use leopard skin is perhaps by investing in a couple of new cushions for the bedroom, where I think it will be a lot more pleasing on the eye!

Rugs, whether Eastern and opulent, or shaggy with a 70’s vibe, should be large statement pieces taking up a good proportion of the room. As for window dressings, Roman blinds work really well on

Place twigs in pots, and fragrance your rooms with pot pourri and candles. Scents associated with Autumn are musky and woody with hints of spice, cinnamon and cloves.

Michele Axisa: Freelance Interiors Writer

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Comfort isn’t just for Christmas. Comfort is a state of mind. Comfort is the end of the day when everything is peaceful. Comfort is a cuddle. Comfort is a blanket and a clear night sky. Comfort is candles. Of course we all describe comfort in completely different ways. A minimalist will no doubt find one portion of their home comfy. To them. It just won’t be the same as my daughter’s definition, as it’s unlikely to involve 27 teddy bears and a High School Musical blanket. So how do we make our homes comfortable? What makes each of us feel ‘at home’? There are some common denominators, of course - the crackling fire, fabulous texture underfoot, but also the less noted, flattering lighting and intuitive design. These are the intangible factors of a home that are only noticed if they don’t work. It’s rare to compliment the comfortable flow of someone’s house or the correct mood lighting. If they are done well, then these factors just fade seamlessly into the fabric of the house. Finding comfort in the home isn’t always a case of investing in dozens of fluffy cushions. Comfort requires a personal definition, because while some are comforted by a simple basket of freshly cut 30

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logs others prefer surrounding themselves with stunning pieces of art, designer fabrics and eye-wateringly expensive tassels to feel ‘comfort’. What does it mean to you? Comfort in the home is a fundamental part of human existence. Maslow identified security as one of our most basic needs and I would suggest that meeting this need, in the form of a home - a sanctuary, an escape - will mean that we are then more free to venture further into our more complex needs such as respect and selfactualisation. Understanding the psychology of the home requires more than investing in a pair of £350 curtain tie-backs after all. Understanding what delights you - what makes you tick, what lights your fire - is the first part of interior design. Appreciating what makes you happy or excites you - the love of a sculpture bought on a romantic weekend in Arles, the painting left to you by a grandparent, an instrument played as a child - can inspire more than a gorgeous room. It will work way beyond coordination and design principles as it will be based

on your life, your history and that personal element is what will make the room wonderful - wonderfully comfortable. That being said, there are still rules to follow that will help compliment the ‘feel good’ factor of the object itself - be it an inherited Tiffany lamp or a simple patchwork cushion that caught your eye. These rules are there to give a helping hand, to point out a basic shape perhaps or a palette of colours. The item, let’s call it a copper cooking pot that your Grandmother always used, will give you the scheme for the rest of the room. It will tell you whether to use curved legs or straight, it will suggest a traditional look or a more contemporary style. It will, in short, give you the ‘feel’ of a room. And if you listen carefully, and most importantly, are not distracted by other pretty diversions, then your room will come together as a cohesive design - well thought through, simple and uniquely yours. Pepsi Deanfield dwell-being designs

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top 10 tips for improving fuel efficiency W

e’ve all watched helplessly as the cost of fuel has rocketed over the last few years. Does anyone remember when it cost less than £1 per litre? Believe it or not, according to the AA, it was only a little more than two years ago in May 2009. Whilst we can’t do anything to beat the increases, there are ways we can minimise its impact. Here are our top 10 tips for improving fuel efficiency. • Check the internet. Sites like www.petrolprices.com are invaluable as they’ll not only tell you where to find the cheapest petrol near your postcode, they’ll also tell you the highest, lowest and average prices in your area. • Drive more efficiently. The experts tell us that it’s possible to cut 60% off your fuel bills just by driving more carefully. Don’t ‘warm up’ the engine, accelerate gradually (try to stay under 3000 revs), avoid sharp braking, drive in the correct gear and at your car’s optimum speed. Stay aware of your positioning and the road conditions ahead to avoid sudden movement.

resistance and force your engine to work harder. • Keep a regular eye on your tyre pressure. Check your car’s manual to find out what the levels should be and ensure they don’t dip lower than this. This will mean your car needs less oomph to keep it moving. • Turn off the air conditioning. Many cars have air conditioning on by default and it does use an incredible amount of fuel so make sure it’s turned off unless you really need it. Similarly, use your demisters and heated windscreens sparingly. However if it’s really hot do use your air conditioning because driving with open windows causes drag and is even less cost effective.

• Don’t fill your tank. Remember that fuel weighs a lot so find a balance between not having to go to the petrol station that often but not carrying a full tank either, rather aiming for between one half and three quarters.

• Avoid super fuels. Unless you have a highly tuned performance car, the difference isn’t noticeable enough to warrant the extra cost.

• Streamline your car. Again, weight is a huge factor in fuel efficiency. Don’t keep a buggy, golf clubs or other unnecessary items in the car. Take off roof racks which add wind

• Combine short trips into one longer one. Cold starts are inefficient so plan ahead and try to do more than one errand when you go out.

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• Choose where you fill up. Again, check out www.petrolprices. com and plan ahead. Fill up at a supermarket station when you’re doing your regular shop, particularly if they have a petrol promotion running and if you have a loyalty card attached to the supermarket. Don’t be caught out with an empty tank when your only option is a motorway service station.

• Last but not least, turn the engine off if stuck in a jam. The general rule of thumb is if you think you’re going to be stationary for more than three minutes, it’s worth switching off.

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Burglars are opportunists who target empty homes when you are out of the way. Prevent the trauma of your home being burgled in the busy run-up to Christmas with these few simple tips. Keep all doors and windows closed and securely locked while youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re out. Most burglars enter out of sight from the street, so make side and back doors as well as windows very secure. Speak to a locksmith about the latest security options. Fences and hedges are your first line of defence and should act as an effective barrier while still allowing your home to be visible from the street. Protect the entrance to your property too. If a gate isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t practical, cover pathways with gravel. The sound of footsteps on gravel is often enough to prevent thieves from continuing. Motion activated lighting and well lit paths and driveways are a must. Outdoor security lighting is cheap to install and low energy light bulbs keep running costs down. Install a burglar alarm. As well as protecting your property, an alarm usually lowers your insurance premiums. By following these simple steps you can protect your home and belongings. But just in case youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re unlucky, do make sure youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re fully insured. 36

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Alexander’s Hair Surgery

Alexander Parsons

has been in the hairdressing industry for 30 years and has worked for a variety of major local salons, including hair salon manager for the “Champneys Health Resort” group for twelve of those years. During his varied career, Alexander has taken care of clients from all over the world with many different professions and lifestyles. “I think that I have just about seen or heard it all! However, from time to time, there are a few surprises!” Alexander is currently employed by Stoke Park Salon in Stoke Poges (www..stokepark. com) and his unique take on all matters hairdressing makes him very popular with his clientele.

During the summer months, many of our clients have been asking our advice on how to change their hairstyles. There are many ways to do this of-course. A new haircut, a new colour or maybe even both! One method in particular however, has attracted a great deal of interest in recent years and is gaining momentum. Hair extensions! Now, before you all go running to the hills screaming, there are many different ways to use hair extensions in order to create a look. This can vary from the avant-garde, to the so natural that no one would ever notice. In this issue, I will guide you through the varied and exiting options available.

Clip-ins.

This phrase is used to describe a method of attachment. Little bendy clips are attached to a weft or a completely styled hairpiece for an instant result.* Clip-ins are really just for one time hairstyle such as a special occasion and, not meant to be worn on a daily basis. Some clip-ins include a clamp to attach the hairpiece. If you can make a pony tail, you can use this type. You can buy these hairpieces from large department stores, or from companies such as Balmain (available from participating salons) who make a very comprehensive range. *(a weft is made from hair that is connected to a tape or fine cord and comes in a variety of lengths, colours, grade, quality and material (human or synthetic hair) The weft can be used as a “clip-in” or can be bonded to your own hair)

Wefts.

Wefts can also be bonded to your own hair, usually at scalp level using a specialised adhesive or tape. This is tricky to do yourself but not impossible. It’s better to have them attached professionally or by a very experienced friend. Wefts can last in the hair only for a few days and require specialist removal. Do not just pull them out! Its not sexy to watch!

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Micro Wefts.

This method of attaching hair is relatively new. The wefts are about 3cm wide and are attached to your own hair using a special type of bonding tape at approximately 1.5cm from the scalp. Two micro wefts are bonded together with your natural hair in between them like a sandwich. They are then cut to blend in with your style. They can last for anything upto 4 weeks before they have to be removed. Micro wefts can only be attached and removed professionally and then washed, conditioned and re-taped for use again. This type of extension is suitable for special occasion or for a client who wants to experience what regular extensions would look like. Especially if the client is terrified that it extensions would look “silly” or “unnatural”, as my wife thought!

Bonded Extensions.

Enter the Aladdin’s cave of possibilities! There are many extension

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$YHUR companies available and each one has their own unique way of attaching hair. Racoon, Balmain and Great Lengths are some of them. Hair can be attached by bonding the added hair to your own with either, a type of resin, acrylic or ring, depending on the manufacturerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s method. Some companies offer various grades/ qualities of human hair as well as acrylic fibre hair. Some companies recommend that the hair remain attached for up to 3 months, while others advise the hair is â&#x20AC;&#x153;rotatedâ&#x20AC;? (some hair is removed after 4 to 5 weeks then re-attached for another 4 to 5 weeks, removing a different area at each session, for up to 6 months wear and replacing lost or worn hair with new as required) Some companies are recommended by the Institute of Trichologists and offer services for people who have lost hair through Chemotherapy (Racoon is one of them) It really depends on what it is you would like to achieve, or what your expectations are when adding

hair and, how much time you are prepared to set aside for upkeep. With all extension products, you need to â&#x20AC;&#x153;re-learnâ&#x20AC;? how to look after and, style your hair. Once this is achieved, it seems to become second nature and many clients appear to â&#x20AC;&#x153;forgetâ&#x20AC;? they even have hair extensions in the first place! Will extensions damage my hair? As long as you follow the advice given to you (to the letter) and the new hair is added with skill, then there should be no problems. Many clients are surprised that the added hair actually seems to protect their natural hair (especially if the added hair is longer) as the stress of styling is absorbed by the added hair and, for many, it is the only way the natural hair can grow! Problems only seem to arise if the client is not suitable for extensions, but were applied anyway, or the client became blasĂŠ with the after care. It is not advisable to have traditional bonded extensions for a special event such as a wedding or holidays (sun and sea). The last thing you

will be thinking about is the upkeep and aftercare, especially if you are on your honeymoon! For special events, the best option is to go with one of the temporary methods. How do I find the extensions for me? The training program to become an extensionist is quite intense and can take several months to reach even a basic level of knowledge. All reputable salons will offer a comprehensive and detailed consultation process (ours takes about an hour) to determine the suitability of the client and to discuss your options and pricing. Often, a test sample is attached so that the client can â&#x20AC;&#x153;feelâ&#x20AC;? the result and, again this is undertaken to determine the suitability. Please bear this in mind when choosing an extensionist. If you are unsure or uncomfortable in any way, then, perhaps you should book a consultation with another company. If you have access to a computer, you can always conduct a â&#x20AC;&#x153;searchâ&#x20AC;? for company recommended salons in your area.

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Buy

s s e l y r t o f Beau

priced buys are emerging. They might not be quite as exciting and glamorous as designer alternatives, but they do offer surprising results at pleasing prices. The once uninteresting ‘value’ ranges have been overhauled and replaced with ones that are far more likely to grab our attention and make us realise that these products can stand up well against the competition. After all, what makes a beauty product great is what it can do for you, not the name on the container. With supermarkets like Tesco leading the way with unbelievably cheap prices on cosmetics, these budget buys provide a great way for us to try out different or fashion-forward make-up looks, that we usually wouldn’t want to invest a lot of money in. As the country well and truly feels the financial pinch of the recession, there’s a lot of pressure on us to be careful with our money, to spend it wisely and to adapt to a less indulgent lifestyle. So buying those designer labelled beauty products complete with very large price tags - can become difficult to justify for those of us on a weekly budget. Yes, it’s hard to fight the allure of the brand and the promises that come with it, not to mention the sublime packaging and determined sales pitch from the assistant. We all have a tendency to think that if it’s designer and expensive, then it’s guaranteed to make our skin more youthful, our lips look fuller and our lashes appear longer. We reassure ourselves that the expense is, of course, worthwhile but in reality, are there other products that can transform us from plain to gorgeous, for half the cost? Is a healthy glow, flawless skin, luscious lashes and perfect pout only available if you buy into expensive top brands or is there an effective value for money alternative? Well, thanks to the new trend in budget beauty, a superb range of affordably 44

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The cheap price tag makes experimenting fun, and a few pounds lost in an unsuitable lipstick is easy to live with, unlike the hefty credit card bill from the beauty counter of a top brand. And it isn’t just cosmetics that are available at bargain prices. Everyday essentials are great value too. If you love relaxing with expensive bath and body products then you won’t be disappointed. The Body Shop - although slightly more expensive than some of the really cheap budget buys - is always the best for sumptuous, sweet smelling ranges that are perfect for pampering, cater for all needs and rival any designer fragrance. More than ever before value-for-money products can even be found in your favourite clothing store. Next have a fabulous range of items that are fashion inspired and affordably priced, so you can finish a trendy new look perfectly. Their vast range of varnishes bring nails up-to-date, at a price that allows you to try out every colour in the range. Although it is hard to deny that a lipstick clad with an iconic designer logo looks so much more sophisticated in any handbag than a budget alternative, when on the lips the two look equally effective. And of course, with what you save on a designer lipstick, you can invest in expanding your make-up bag, finding a new look that really suits you and a satisfaction in knowing that, even with all the new purchases, you are still saving money. By Helen Jane Taylor

Perfectly Plucked Eyebrows are a natural frame for makeup and should be plucked immediately after a bath or shower, as the pores will be open, making hair removal less painful. If you are in a hurry, soak a cotton wool ball in warm water and hold it against each brow for a minute or two before plucking. Do not moisturise as this makes it difficult for the tweezers to grip the hairs. Use a magnifying mirror in good light. First brush upwards with an eyebrow brush and snip any stray hairs above the thickest part of the brow. Next brush downwards and trim hairs below the thickest part of the brow. Finish by brushing upwards. Three-quarters of your eyebrow should slant upwards and the remaining quarter slant downwards. Take a slim pencil and hold it next to your nostril in a vertical line to find where your brow should begin. Keeping the pencil against your nose, move the other end to the outer corner of your eye to find where your brow should end. To find where the highest point of your brow should be, move the free end until it crosses your iris. Never remove hairs from the top of your brows as this distorts the natural curve. Hold skin taut and pluck one hair at a time, pulling gently at a 45 degree angle in the direction of hair growth. Stop frequently to make sure your brows are even. Any redness can be reduced with aloe vera gel or ice.

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Christmas Tidings Christmas is fast approaching with orders placed, presents bought, and plans well underway for that perfect family gathering. Or is it? Is it possible to have the perfect family gathering? Many of us hold the myth that families should be free from stress, that the home should be a haven of peace and happiness particularly around Christmas, which is often viewed as an opportunity for quality family time. Society gives us the clear message that it is acceptable to experience work-related stress, but not familyrelated stress. The media is full of images of the perfect family enjoying the meal around the table and each others company, what the media does not portray is the often real life situation of arguing children, moody teenagers and parents that don’t talk to each other. When we ‘buy in’ to these unrealistic expectations, we often end up disappointed. A certain amount of family stress is inevitable. It is how a family handles and copes with stress that is truly important.

people and feelings. The person doing all the running around is often mum who feels that the success of Christmas lies solely on her shoulders. It is well reported that, less stressed families seem to find time to support each other, display more flexibility, have reasonable expectations, communicate regularly with each other, set priorities, and view stress as a challenge that is both temporary and manageable.

At Christmas time the pressure to be happy and enjoy things increases exponentially which merely serves to provoke feelings of inadequacy in all of us. People now often lead very busy lives and may feel that they have little time to spend together or have a desire for the simpler life. Families often will find themselves constantly bickering or spending time talking about running out of time and the tasks of preparing for the holiday period, rather than

Some solutions to family stress at Christmas: • When problems begin to arise – talk about them together, avoiding problems almost always intensifies them. Planning as a family what you want to do at Christmas will go some way to ensuring everyone is on board. • Get everyone involved, particularly if both parents are out working. On the day give everyone a task for example peeling potatoes or setting the table. Sharing out the tasks means that there will

Dr Shelagh Wright

be times for everyone to relax. • Leave work at work – over the Christmas period you do not need to be thinking about work or work related issues. This is a specific time when the family is the only focus. • Set guidelines for all family members if you recognise and respect your limitations the others will too. You can't do everything that your partner or children want you to do. • Keep things in perspective Concentrate on those items and tasks that bring the most rewards to your family and get the full benefit from them. Eliminate those that do not give benefit to the family. Christmas is usually a time when families come together, being reasonable and realistic about your own expectations and sharing these with your family will enable you to plan a Christmas that you can relax and enjoy. Shelagh Wright

DsysPsych

Systemic and Family Psychotherapist

Doctor Shelagh

Need help with: • • • •

Eating Disorders Depression Anxiety Couple Issues

Dr Shelagh is now on MarlowFM every Tuesday 9.30am to 12pm on the Health Show

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• • • •

Relationship Issues Family Relationships Communication Difficulties Adolescent Issues Telephone: 01628 509041 Mobile:07956 495365 Email: info@drshelagh.com . Web: www.drshelagh.com Siena Court Broadway Maidenhead SL6 1NJ

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Bad Behaviour in School Recognising problems Children can be disruptive in the classroom in many ways: playing up when they should be working, refusing to carry out requested tasks, talking back to the teacher and distracting other children from their work by their behaviour. Often parents do not recognise this disruptive behaviour in their child at home but one survey found that 80% of primary and secondary school teachers blamed poor discipline at school on a lack of parental control at home. While this may be the case, research also shows that early intervention by parents and the school in dealing with difficult behaviour brings long-term beneficial results. The effects of disruptive behaviour A child’s disruptive behaviour at school not only affects their own schoolwork, it affects the concentration and behaviour of other children in the class. It also means the teacher has to spend time controlling poor behaviour rather than teaching. While bad behaviour may seem amusing to other children, in reality a disruptive child tends not to have close friends, or doesn’t keep friends for long and they may find other children avoiding them at break-times. Teachers, too, may find it difficult to keep a balanced view of the child. Future consequences If a child is not taught how to become a considerate and active member of the class, then they are more likely to become disaffected with school and start to play truant - it’s estimated that 55,000 pupils skip classes every day. This means not only are they missing out on the social interaction gained from peers, but are less likely to do well in exams and gain employment 48

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in the future. As a result of a child’s behaviour they may be excluded from school for a fixed period of time or permanently. Getting support for your child All schools have strategies in place to help control behaviour. The school may suggest a written action plan, agreed by you, your child and them on how to deal with disruptive behaviour. They may impose sanctions, such as the withdrawal of break or giving a lunchtime detention. Your child may be mentored by an older pupil or supportive adults. If a child can see themselves as others see them and understand how their behaviour affects others, it can help them to behave in a more responsible way. Your child may be referred to an educational psychologist, employed by your local authority, to assess the best way of helping them. There are also parenting support

programmes available which can help you to build on your parenting skills and open the lines of communication between you and your child – knowing that they have solid support at home will help your child to deal with problems at school. Parents are often surprised it is their child being disruptive at school, but if a teacher feels the need to point it out to you, listen and take action. Ask to have a meeting with the school and your child to discuss the problems and to try and work out solutions. Remember that it is your child who will benefit from guidelines and support. Research shows early intervention is the best way to prevent your child’s behaviour from getting worse – and to give them the chance of a good education.

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My Olympic Dream and the River Thames I am now pushing to secure an Olympic place in the 2012 London Olympics in the flat water kayaking. I started canoeing at Royal Canoe Club, Trowlock Island, Teddington on the Thames. I was 10 at the time and the first time I sat in a boat I immediately knew I had found a sport that I really enjoyed. From learning the basics of the sport I soon worked my way up the development groups at the club and within 3 years I was training 6 days of the week, no matter the season, no matter how cold I was out there pushing. At first I never imagined that I would one day be able to challenge for a place at the Olympic Games but as I have progressed through my love of the sport, that dream is becoming more of a reality. From Richmond Lock to Hampton Court I spent hour after training and now with 18 months to go before the Olympics I spend my time on the Thames at both Bisham Abbey, Dorney Lake (the venue for the Olympic Games) and when ever my schedule permits back to the Thames at Teddington. One of the things that has remained constant through my years within the sport, from the early stages to the competitive ones now, is the enjoyment I get from paddling on the river Thames. It always surprises me how different the environment and surroundings are from even one lock stretch to another, and there is always something to look at whilst I am racking up the miles. 50

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by Jon Boyton

TV Doctors 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Dr. Nikki Alexander Dr. Richard Kimble Dr. Doug Ross Dr. Robert Chase Dr. Bunsen Honeydew Dr. Richard Burke Dr. John Dorian Dr. Cristina Yang Dr. Nick Riviera Dr. Sam Beckett

Choosing from the list below, can you name the TV shows that the doctors above feature in? The Simpsons

Silent Witness

The Fugitive

Greyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Anatomy

Scrubs

Friends

House

Quantum Leap

The Muppet Show

E.R. Answer page 72 ALONG THE THAMES

Help!

My dog is scared of fireworks

A recent national survey of the UK revealed that approximately 46% of all dogs were afraid of fireworks (while 19% were afraid of the vet!). Correcting phobias and teaching your dog that things needn’t be as scary as they think can take some time, especially when the phobia is particularly serious. However, here are a few top tips to progress quickly. Start training your dog at least one week before the fireworks season begins. I prefer to advise not to start with medications or drugs as scientific studies have demonstrated that the majority

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of cases of canine anxiety are correctable using a good behaviour modification plan. Use effective calming products like Thundershirt, a well-stuffed KONG toy and Through A Dog's Ear music CDs in order to support the plan and see fast improvement. Through A Dog’s Ear is the first clinically proven audio series to have a positive impact on canine anxiety and one I’ve been using in research with great success. Firstly, place your dog's bed where it is near you but away from the windows or doors; when the fireworks are going off, you want to have them away from where they will be able to hear the noise loudest. Regularly have your dog settle in their bed, rewarding them for calm, settled behaviour. You can do this while watching television, continued on page 54

start to understand your dogs food.. Dog Food Labelling is complicated, and the manufacturers are not always entirely transparent to the ingredients contained within. When looking at labels there are certain statutory requirements that need to be presented such as manufacturers’ details, ingredients, feeding guidelines, typical analysis and so on. In terms of helping all of us who own dogs understand how to interpret the labels; I have taken statements from food labelling guidelines and then tried to explain what it means to us when purchasing our foods. Some important areas to look for when choosing a quality complete food are: “The product name is the first part of the label noticed by the consumer, and can be a key factor in the consumer’s decision to buy the product” Looking into the ingredients, post looking at the packaging may reveal that the old adage “never judge a book by its cover” is true! For example a product name with a “with Lamb & Rice” means that the mentioned meat is only required to make up 3% of the total product so it may not describe the prominence of ingredients you as a consumer might expect - take a look!

“All ingredients are required to be listed in order of predominance by weight”. The main portion of that food is made up by the first set of ingredients listed on labels. A good rule of thumb is to look for the first source of fat in the ingredients list such as “Chicken Fat”. Everything up to, and including, that fat makes up the main portion of the food content. In this section you want to be seeing the major meat components and you will perhaps see here that there are meats which the label won’t lead you to believe e.g. “With Lamb” on the packet may well include larger portions of Chicken included to raise the associated analysis % levels. “Must state guarantees for the minimum percentages of crude protein and crude fat” Firstly, this is all dependent on the moisture content of food - so check this prior to trying a comparison against other foods. “Crude” means the content regardless of quality or digestibility, leaving you without any means to determine the true quality of the product from this analysis - you can always cross check with point 2, in essence meat, meat meal, fish are all far more digestible than a food being packed out with a high level of grains such as Rice.

Meat versus Meat Meal - what is best? Another big topic and both have pros and cons but meat meal provides more concentrated nutrients than fresh meat. Many, if not all complete Food includes meal. The MAJOR thing to look for on a label is “derivatives” – these are by-products from animals of lesser quality which the dogs find it harder to digest and it is best to steer clear of these hard to digest sources. We work with dogs diet everyday - please note that all dogs are different and just because a % looks good on the packet does not mean your dog will digest it, or agree with higher % levels - the diet must match the activity levels, lifestyle, and any allergies that a dog may have.

For any further inforamtion on diet please contact us at the pack HQ on 01628 635793 and we can talk through your packs personal dietary requirements.

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From page 52 - Help My dog is scared of fireworks

reading a book or even while doing the ironing! I’d recommend weighing out your dog’s daily food allowance and feeding them by hand, using each piece of food as a reward for calm behaviour. Have your dog settle on their bed at different times of the day to help train calm behaviour so that they don't associate just one part of the day with being calm. Have them settle before feeding them their breakfast, before their dinner and during the evening, for example. Repeat this often throughout the week to train your dog that their bed is now an enjoyable and safe place for them to be.

your dog to settle on their bed. Desensitisation CDs feature a variety of noises your dog may be afraid of, such as fireworks, starting at a very low level and gradually increasing in volume. Feed your dog’s daily food allowance by hand, progressing to the next volume only when they are calm and non-reactive with the current level. If you have to leave them home alone during the fireworks season, increase the volume of the Through A Dog's Ear CD (or simply play calm classical music) to help cover the noise of the fireworks; close any curtains and stuff plenty of food in the KONG to occupy them.

When it gets to firework season, remain calm and happy, feeding your dog with several pieces of tasty treats like dried liver, chicken skin or bacon fat, each time the noise occurs. The dog will begin to associate the noise with positive outcomes. If your dog refuses the food, it is a clear indicator of how stressed they are: continue to offer it with a cheerful voice, turning up the volume of the Through A Dog’s Ear CD or a calm classical music CD. If your dog has a severe phobia, consult your veterinarian and professional behaviourist who uses science-based methods of positive reinforcement and use a sound desensitisation CD whilst teaching

Remember to walk them during light hours when fireworks are less likely to be going off, avoiding walking them in the evening – a wellstuffed KONG chew toy is a great alternative to occupy them in the evening in place of a walk. For more information on dog training and behaviour: www.JezRose.co.uk

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“I have to say that Along the Thames is one of the most outstanding quality free and local magazines I have seen in recent years. Serena’s attention and sheer devotion to the format, content, ethos and delivery of this magazine is truly honourable, and the magazine deserves all the credit it receives. For the Thames Valley Business Women’s Group it has been a key vehicle for raising awareness, encouraging local business ladies to attend our meetings and events, as well as encourage membership. We have seen 3 to 5 members join per monthly meeting, a high percentage of this attributed to these business ladies reading about the group in Along the Thames. Also, our members have received considerable success and growth in their businesses by advertising in the magazine - indeed with 1 member saying she had become virtually fully booked as a direct result of her advertising. I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending both Serena and Along the Thames Magazine to anyone and wish the magazine even more success and growth in the coming years.” Nicky Guy, Chair - Thames Valley Business Women’s Group

Connecting Communities

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Call 01628 771419 / 07711 887107 office@alongthethames.co.uk

Welcome to the Thames Valley Business Women’s Group (TVBWG) Established in 1989 in High Wycombe, TVBWG is a successful business support, advice and networking forum for businesswomen to meet like-minded people, share ideas, advice and support, network, make friends and learn ways to expand and improve their business, as well as creating sales opportunities. Today, TVBWG has many long-standing members who not only work together but have become close friends too! We hold monthly meetings for interactive sessions, some with specialist speakers; and participants are encouraged to liaise, work and socialise togetherin-between meetings.

TVBWG Meetings and Diary Planner: MONDAY 10 OCTOBER 2011: Interactive session on legal requirements and insurance in business, VAT, TAX, business & personal finance planning. MONDAY 14 NOVEMBER 2011: Business & Showcase Christmas Fayre and Networking evening. MONDAY 5 DECEMBER 2011: Christmas Social (please visit our website for details). MONDAY 9 JANUARY 2012: New Year Kick-off with ‘Hints & Tips’ session on effective and proven Marketing and Sales tactics to boost your business. MONDAY 13 FEBRUARY 2012: Annual General Meeting followed by speed networking. TVBWG monthly meetings are mostly held at the Chartered Institute of Marketing, Moor Hall, Cookham with informal networking in the CIM bar from 6.30pm. Meetings start at 7.30pm with tea & coffee and biscuits, and attendees are encouraged to bring their business cards, leaflets, products and promotions/offers and network!

Non-members are welcome at a cost of £10 per meeting payable at the event. So, if you are a businesswoman, thinking of starting a business or a business manager, feel free to come along to the TVBWG and enjoy what the group has to offer.

For full details, news, offers and contacts

visit www.tvbwg.com or contact Nicky Guy, Chair at chair@tvbwg.com Follow TVBWG on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.....

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to everyone in your business who needs the information? By collecting customer information in a single location, CRM gives business owners and their staff a clear understanding of customers and their experience with your business. This information is a collective resource so that when a key member of staff leaves all customer contact data does not leave with them. Some of the benefits of a good CRM system include: • Testing, measuring and the modification of business activities based on information received • Improved levels of customer service As a SME or a freelance consultant it is easy to gloss over Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and ‘make do’ with existing desktop software. However, there does come a time when CRM needs to be addressed and according to MarketingUK, every business large or small needs a CRM application and it is not enough to use an Excel spreadsheet or other desktop application to help you keep track. Today many companies take a proactive approach to the relationship they have with their customers, and customers also expect to be valued as well as receive value. CRM is used to retain, store, manage and study customer information. Storing information in a variety of places can lead to fragmentation of information and lack of accessibility, for example, is your customer data available 56

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• Measurement of return on investment of sales and marketing activities • Increased customer retention • Detailed customer profiling which can reduce embarrassing mistakes • Identification of new selling opportunities Having the right data in the right place, format and time will lead to improvements in overall business performance by reducing the amount of time it takes to; put together a list of new business prospects; write a sales report; address service problems; and fulfil orders. Furthermore, as your business grows CRM will help you to see how customer information can benefit every part of the business and lead to an increase in knowledge-sharing. When CRM first came onto

the marketplace it was seen as something only large businesses could afford. This has now changed with CRM being delivered as on-demand product with many web-based suppliers offering a variety of packages and deals, including Social CRM. Budget restraints may mean you need to tailor aspects of the service. Time and fewer personnel resources can also hamper the adoption of CRM in SME’s. Although some tasks are automated CRM will still require input from staff and someone in your business will need to develop a level of technical knowledge to manage your CRM system. Consultants can supply technical expertise but they do come at a cost. To find the right CRM product and solution for your business and industry sector speak to an expert and do your research. There are many online CRM offerings today which can act as a starting point. An outside consultant may also be of assistance during this process, helping you to select the right product for your requirements and budget. Although investing in a CRM consultant may seem like an expensive service in a small business, a good consultant will help prevent you choosing the wrong product for your organisation saving you both time and money. If you would like to know more about how CRM can help you either contact a local consultant or your own research can be conducted online through search engines using the term CRM or Customer Relationship Management. Harriet Subramanian

http://jobsitesonline.co.uk/ jobsitesonline.co.uk is a website which helps people find jobs across the world. The website also contains information on where to look for jobs, useful things to know and the places to visit.

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Share ideas - exchange information - join our community Marlow - 9.30 - 11.30 am Danesfield House Hotel on 2nd Thursday of the month Maidenhead - 9.00 - 11am Temple Golf Club on 3rd Thursday of the month Business Biscotti promotes working in a way that is .flexible, mobile, collaborative and digitally in touch For more information or to join us on line visit

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CAR makers. Give them their due, they normally produce some rather good motors. But occasionally – very occasionally – disasters that should have remained in the design studio slip through the net. Here we take a look at the top of the flops.

Quiet Disasters Renault Koleos

You only have to look over the fence to sister firm Nissan to see that crossovers can be successful – try and order a Qashqai or Juke now and you’ll be looking at a rather long wait. So it’s hard to pinpoint exactly why the Renault Koleos flopped. Renault launched it in 2008 and by 2010 it had been axed, selling just 2,890. The Qashqai, by comparison, sold 9,253 models in March alone.

Nissan Cube

The Cube has been a cult hit for years with unofficial imports snapped up by style conscious buyers keen for something unique. So when Nissan decided to bring the latest model to the UK officially in 2009, it was sure it had a hit on its hands. Unfortunately, the maker gave it little publicity, it was expensive and soon became too costly to import from Japan. 1,000 were sold which Nissan says was ‘over its estimate’. We don’t believe them.

Citroen C6

We all know that large French saloons haven’t been the most popular cars in Britain. Despite this, Citroen launched the C6 in 2006 with phrases like ‘free-thinking’, ‘svelte’, and ‘unmistakable’ in its marketing bumpf. From its launch to the end of 2010, Citroen sold just 889 units – the E60 BMW 5 Series sold ten times as many in the same period. But Citroen always said it had expectations the C6 would find homes ‘in the hundreds, rather than thousands’.

Chrysler Sebring

Chrysler had its eye on entering the D-segment back in 2007 – and thought the Sebring was the answer. It wasn’t. The press packs said it combined ‘striking design with interior craftsmanship’ with ‘great performance’ thrown in for good measure. The public disagreed and bought only 2,652 of them before it slipped off the price lists in 2009. In the same period, Ford sold 126,368 units of the Mondeo.

Subaru Tribeca

Like Renault, Subaru believed it needed an SUV in its range. So, in 2006, along came the Tribeca. Intended to offer a ‘practical SUV with great handling and a sporty drive’ it failed to find buyers. A face-lift in 2008 did nothing to improve sales and it bowed out that year with just 750 sold. In contrast, the Volvo XC90 – a car Subaru was competing with – sold 11,897 units in the same three years.

Toyota Urban Cruiser

The Toyota Urban Cruiser went on sale in May 2009. Designed to meet a ‘growing demand for vehicles that are cut out for life on urban roads’ it didn’t do the job. Sales at the end of 2010 were 3,017 – the maker had planed to shift 2,000 units a year.

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Chrysler Crossfire

Launched with great fanfare in 2003, the Crossfire was Chrysler’s sports car for the masses. Based on the first-generation Mercedes SLK, it came in coupe and convertible forms with retro American styling. However, only 4,544 units were sold in five years, and the Crossfire quietly died in 2008. In contrast the SLK sold 4,362 units in 2004 alone.

Vauxhall Signum

More than just a cut-down Vectra, the Signum was intended to offer the executive experience in an otherwise humdrum Vauxhall and arrived in 2003. But almost five years to the day, Vauxhall called time on the Signum, axing it with just 17,344 sales to its name. This was ‘on target’ according to the firm but industry experts say it was well off what was originally planned.

Ford Cougar

Along with the Focus, the Cougar was one of the cars that demonstrated Ford’s ‘new edge’ look in the late 90s. Available with the Mondeo’s 2.0-litre and 2.5-litre petrol engines, the Cougar was loved by the press. Sadly, the public wasn’t convinced – the lack of a prestige badge meant sales totaled 13,958 in four years. In contrast, the BMW 3 Series Coupe sold 44,420 between ’98 and ’02, showing a badge makes all the difference.

Mercedes-Benz R-Class

Billed as a car that combined ‘an SUV, sports saloon, and luxury estate car’ into one package, the Mercedes R-Class arrived in 2005 hoping to carve a niche of its own. It was such a niche that few Brits bought it, and even a makeover in 2010 did little to improve the 3,433 sales clocked up so far. Mercedes says those numbers are ‘in-line with expectations’, but we’re not so sure about that… By James Baggott, editor of Car Dealer Magazine (CarDealerMag.co.uk)

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Crossword

Across 1. rader who sells sewing and dressmaking materials (11) 9. Spotted wildcat (7) 10. Employment (5) 11. Ditch around a castle (4) 12. Military wake-up call (8) 14. Coffee-chocolate drink (5)

15. Squeeze with the fingers (5) 20. Not copied from something else (8) 22. Capital of Norway (4) 24. Jewelled headdress (5) 25. Authentic (7) 26. Embroidery resembling tapestry (11)

Down 2. Pearshaped fruit (7) 3. Mild yellow Dutch cheese (4) 4. Bumper car (6) 5. Memento (8) 6. Electronic message (5) 7. Accuse of being responsible (5) 8. High temperature (5) 13. Country formerly known as Siam (8) 16. Pillow (7) 17. Main artery of the body (5) 18. Bracelet (6) 19. One stroke over par in golf (5) 21. Mental representation (5) 23.Reverse an action (4)

Spot the Difference Can you ďŹ nd the 10 differences between these two pictures

Answers on page 72

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we also offer a mobile service operating in south east england and london

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Before you hit the slopes this winter there's still time to slip in a city break or two, and according to the New York City tourism board UK travellers need to be quick off the mark if they want to scoop a cheap ﬂight to New York.

City Breaks this Autumn

Paris - Arc de Triomphe

The tourism organisation has recently highlighted that the most interest in New York city breaks falls between Thanksgiving and Christmas, with New York being seen as the place to do your Christmas shopping. A decrease in business travel during this period means that visitors can also take advantage of cheaper hotel rates. Look out for the spectacular Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on 24th November, the New York Comedy Festival from 2nd to 6th November at Carnegie Hall, and the tree-lighting ceremony on the 30th November at the Rockefeller Centre. Both BA and Virgin Atlantic offer cheap flights to New York but remember to book ahead. Visit www.nyctourist.com for the latest event information as well as a selection of accommodation. 62

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Europe offers a vast selection of city break destinations. Travelzest VFB Holidays has launched a new collection of short breaks for this autumn and winter including:

Residence Les Gobelins including return travel by Eurostar and tickets to the exhibition (opens 5 October) costs from £229 pp (two sharing) in October.

Cezanne, Matisse & Picasso – the adventure of the Steins – Paris

Brussels in Winter

The Grand Palais hosts an unusual exhibition this winter devoted to the bohemian Stein family and their fantastic collection of modern art, including masterpieces by Cezanne, Matisse and Picasso and many more. The Steins were famously the first collectors to recognise the talent of these artists, and their daring patronage of the Parisian avant-garde aided an artistic revolution that would change the history of art forever. Two nights’ B&B at the Hotel

The Brussels Advent market has its roots deep in the Middle Ages and is the largest of its kind in Belgium. It has a distinctly multinational feel with stalls from just about every corner of the European Union springing up along an illuminated two kilometre route, offering everything from traditional handcrafted gifts and decorations to mulled wine and local delicacies including marzipan, gingerbread and, of course, Belgian chocolates. Three nights’ B&B at the Novotel Brussels Centre Tour Noire including return travel

Brussels Big Wheel at night

by Eurostar costs from £213 pp (two sharing) in November (the Christmas markets run from 25 November to 1 January). Salzburg in Winter

For further information or to book, please call Travelzest’s VFB Holidays on 0800 171 2160 or visit www.travelzest.com. For a city break closer to home why not visit Scotland’s capital city? In fact Edinburgh has recently

Brussels - Chocolates

been named as the best tourist destination for a romantic break on the East Coast route. Edinburgh also offers fantastic shopping on Princes Street, family and historical attractions, and places for a bit of R&R. There are also a host of romantic spots in the capital including Arthur’s seat where visitors can take in the breathtaking views across the city. East Coast offers some great deals for people travelling to Edinburgh see www.eastcoast.co.uk for train fares and general information on Edinburgh. Harriet Subramanian

Salzburg

Discover the magic of the traditional Christmas Markets in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Salzburg, nestled high in the Austrian Alps. Snowcovered domes and rooftops, tantalising aromas of spices and mulled wine, choirs singing and church bells ringing combine to create a magical atmosphere in this beautiful city that’s rich in musical history and Baroque architecture. Two nights’ B&B at the NH Hotel Salzburg City including return flights (Gatwick) costs from £301 pp (two sharing) in November and December (the Christmas markets run from 25 November to 1 January).

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Book Club

Why not curl up with a one of these....? For your chance to win one of 3 copies of “Phoenix Rising” by Ron RIchardson, please send your name and address to competition@AlongtheThames.co.uk by 9th November, 2011..

Deadly Conception Sola Odemuyiwa A provocative story of race, prejudice and human resilience.

it takes to overcome self-doubt, red tape and professional mendacity to clear his name and live out his life?

Phoenix Rising The Legend Begins

A Rose in No Man’s Land John Kerr A heartrending story of love and valour in WW1

Ron Richardson A gripping novel set in ancient Britain

Prolonged recession has brought to power a hard-line UK government. To reduce street crime, all newborn males of non-EU citizens must be vaccinated at birth against ADHD. When the young Mensah Dacosta comes into this uncertain world, his family tries, but fails, to protect him. His mother breaks down. His father deserts. Later, just before Mensah qualifies as a doctor, he finds out that the vaccine contaminated him with a life-shortening gene. He battles on and is on the threshold of being appointed a consultant when he is suspended, accused of contravening hospital policy. David Timms is Mensah’s rival for the post of consultant cardiologist in Newcastle. His mother, Rachel, a leading economist and government adviser, has a dark secret. What shadowy past links Mensah and David? What became of his distraught mother and displaced father? Why do the powers that be seem to be conspiring against his every aspiration? And in the final reckoning, does Mensah have what

In the misty and mysterious land that is ancient Britain, a child is born on a stormy night and is denounced as evil by the village druid. The boy is murdered and cast aside in the nearby countryside. But this is no ordinary child: he is Luka, the Phoenix, and he will not die until the appointed time, over a hundred years from now. Luka’s destiny takes him from family tragedy in his native land to Gaul and the war against Caesar’s legions, to the final stand of Vercingetorix at Alesia, and home again to witness, many years later, the full-scale invasion of Britain by the Roman army. From the great battles of the age to tender moments of intimacy, Phoenix Rising is a tour de force, transporting the reader to a world of darkness, magic, superstition and the constant threat of violence and death. Luka’s world: the world of the Phoenix.

Frank Harrington is an idealistic volunteer in the American Ambulance Field Service, a group of young Americans ferrying wounded soldiers from the front lines of the Western Front to temporary, teeming field hospitals. As Frank gradually comes to grips with the appalling realities of trench warfare and dodges the German shells, he also finds himself falling in love with Kit Stanley. Kit is one of many volunteer English nurses tending to the flood of British soldiers suffering from ghastly wounds and poison gas. But she must also grapple with the burden of her allegiance to Captain Nigel Owen, an infantry commander caught in the thick of the fighting. By turns gripping and romantic, horrifying and deeply moving, John Kerr’s powerful novel paints a vivid picture of life just behind the front lines and of the ordinary, unsung men and women whose sacrifice and heroism helped save the lives of thousands of soldiers.

The books on this page are from Book Guild Publishing To order, please call 01202 665432 (weekdays only) or visit www.bookguild.co.uk 64

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The National Trust launches its first walking festival This October half-term sees the National Trust celebrating its first Walking Festival.

people and share the simple pleasure of walking. Here are some Walking Festival highlights:

From 22 to 30 October, properties across the country are showcasing the best walks to enjoy with family and friends, either under their own steam, or with the guidance of friendly staff.

Basildon Park near Reading is hosting its own special event on 21 October to launch a series of new self-guided trails. Wellies at the Ready is an opportunity to enjoy an autumnal guided walk with the warden, which takes in some of Basildon’s panoramic views (starting in the Stableyard at 10.30am, no booking required, free after normal admission). Alternatively, visitors can pick up a map and follow any of the four new way-marked trails which explore different parts of Basildon’s magnificent 18thcentury parkland and woods. The walks vary in length and terrain, but there is something on offer for all age groups and abilities, including one for baby buggies, and another for keen walkers who want to go further afield. All walks can be downloaded from the National Trust’s website.

From walks with rangers to self-guided rambles, there is plenty to help you to get outdoors and enjoying the delights of the countryside and our most beautiful places. October is also the best month to experience glorious autumn leaf and berry colour. Many of the Walking Festival’s organised walks are ideal for families to take part in together. Some properties are offering buggy-friendly routes, and shorter distances for very young visitors. If you like doing your own thing, the National Trust has also created loads of new downloadable walks and waymarked trails for you to enjoy at any time of the year. Many of the houses and gardens sit within extensive country estates of parkland, meadows and woodland, so why not take your walking boots when you next visit one of the Trust’s properties, and explore a bit further afield? Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk for a list of downloadable walking routes. If you prefer walking in a group, there are many organised walking events – check out www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ walkingfestival for details. It’s a great way to meet like-minded

Autumn colour at Basildon Park: this beautiful country estate reveals sensational shows of seasonal colour and some superb vistas. Stately oaks and beeches are transformed into glinting umbrellas of buttery yellows and oranges, interspersed with a flaming mix of ochre and strawberry-red from lime, cherry and whitebeam. The woods around the drive are also bright with colour from native shrub the spindle tree, whose purple, ruby and pink leaves are accompanied by little red fruits that gradually split open to reveal bright orange seeds

Guided walks of the estate also take place every Friday until 25 November, led by Basildon’s Warden or by the Reading & District Natural History Society. October walks are from 10.30am. Basildon Park, Lower Basildon, Reading, Berkshire RG8 9NR, Tel: 0118 984 3040 Cliveden near Maidenhead has acres of magnificent beech woodlands to explore. These are the exciting location for some autumnal family fun, with a 3km guided walk aimed at 6 to 12 year olds, which takes families through the woods, giving them activities to complete along the way, including a ‘mini-beast’ hunt and agility trail. 24, 26 & 28 October, 11am – 1pm, free after normal admission. A new self-led autumn leaf trail is also available, which leads visitors from the garden into the wilder side of Cliveden’s woodland. Trail available daily from the Information Centre, from 24 September to 31 October, free after normal admission. Autumn colour at Cliveden: the acers in the Water Garden are one of Cliveden’s autumn stars. Golden yellows and burnished reds of Norway and Japanese maples mingle with the glorious amber, crimson and deep purple leaves of the Liquidamber tree. Dotted around the gardens, in the areas of longer grass, lie autumn crocuses in shades of lilac and purple. Cliveden, Taplow, nr Maidenhead, Buckinghamshire SL6 0JA, Tel: 01628 605069

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Autumn Photography

Autumn is the time of mists and colour. Summer’s greens and bright colours turn to the faded browns and yellows as autumn prepares the countryside for winter. This is one of the best times of year to be outdoors with your camera. You don’t have to get up in the middle of the night to get a misty atmospheric sunrise or be late to bed to get the setting sun. The weather alone can produce great photographic opportunities. A misty morning turns a humble scene into a spectacular one. Buildings and countryside, are transformed by a simple fall of snow. To help you get your autumn and winter photography off to a great start here are a few tips to help you. Planning is important, if you are not to waste an opportunity. Take another look at somewhere you know well, think what it could be like with a touch of dramatic mist. Radiation fog, or mist to you and me, occurs when the ground cools at night. For mist to form you need calm wind conditions 66

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with a clear sky. The one thing about mist is that it will not last long once the sun is up. So on the next possible misty morning maybe get up a little earlier. Take a different route to work. Then you can stop and take that picture you had planned. Snow changes everything. It blurs outlines, changing the shape and form of familiar objects. A lack of detail causes our brains to work harder recognising objects. Because of this, we start to notice details we missed before. Once again planning is the key to taking pictures in the snow. Make a plan, so if we get a snow you’ll be ready. As soon as the snow appears head for your planned location, it could be a local landmark or a bit of countryside. Everything looks different in the first light of a snowy morning. Remember snow reflects a lot of light. So you need to adjust your camera settings to compensate. If you can, adjust your camera to give 1 to 2 stops less exposure. November the 5th, Guy Fawkes Night is a great time to give your camera an airing. Pictures of

fireworks can be tricky but try our tips and you maybe surprised with the result. Many point and shoot cameras have a firework setting. If yours has then try it, the camera will do a lot of the hard work for you. Even if your camera has a fireworks setting you still need to think about a few other things. Trying to judge were the fireworks will explode is difficult. Be prepared to miss a few opportunities before you get it right. Get a feature in your picture, a tree or a building, as this will add scale. No matter what camera you use, you need to hold it still. If you have a tripod, then use it. If you don’t, all is not lost try and find something solid to rest your camera on. For those without a firework setting on their camera the following could be helpful. Set the camera to a high ISO setting. Turn off the autofocus if you can or set your camera to landscape mode. With a DSLR, turn off the image stabiliser if you have it. Take a torch to let you see what you are setting you camera to. One last thing don’t forget to turn off your built in flash. We will leave you with one last thought you can take pictures no matter what the weather is. All you need is the right clothing and the will to leave the fireside. by Jacky and Mark Bloomfield Wildlife Photographers

Policing matters Hearing Dogs Need you! If you have a hearing problem, you can frequently miss out on important events in your home: that essential telephone call, the doorbell, the alarm clock. Imagine being alerted to these and other everyday household noises by a specially trained dog provided by Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, a registered charity which since 1982 has aimed to improve the quality of life for people with impaired hearing. Before a dog begins its specialised training around the age of 12 months, it must learn to ‘socialise’ in a variety of everyday situations and the charity is actively seeking volunteer Puppy Socialisers in the Berkshire and Hampshire areas. Puppy Socialisers in partnership with Hearing Dogs take a young puppy into their homes, full time, for around 12 months, teaching the dogs basic social skills. ‘Our Puppy Socialisers perform a vital role in the initial training of our dogs and we value the contribution they make very highly,’ said Lucy Dacre, Hearing Dogs Volunteer Co-ordinator. So, do you have what it takes to be a Puppy Socialiser and make a valuable contribution to what will be a life changing experience for a deaf person? Can you commit to looking after and training a dog for up to 12 months? If you want to find out more e-mail Hearing Dogs for Deaf People at: puppy@hearingdogs.org.uk or call 01844 348129 Experience is not necessary as the charity provide support, training and cover all related expenses.

A workman is only as good as his tools If a job is worth doing then it is worth doing well and that often requires being in possession of the right tools for the job. Unfortunately the criminals who operate in this area are well aware of this. We have seen a rise in the theft of tools from vehicles and this is especially true of tradesmen who rely on their tools for a living. I would like to urge all tradesmen to think about the security of their vehicles. When you get to a job then unload all of your tools from the vehicle if you can. If not then make sure that your vehicle is kept locked at all times and preferably left where you can see it. Also never leave your tools in your vehicle overnight. Tools are very expensive and most tradesmen have a lot more than the cost of replacing them to lose. Tool security is also important for householders. Have you ever considered how much money is sitting in your shed or garage in the shape of your tools? Now consider what security you have on your shed. Is it alarmed or even locked in most cases. Alarms for your shed can be purchased at most garden centres or DIY shops. Another incentive for securing your shed is that many burglars will use a tool from your shed to break into your house. If you would like to know more about home security or your local neighbourhood team then you can visit us at www.thamesvalley.police.uk. Inspector Ray Wilks The views expressed in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of the Thames Valley Police

WORLD CANCER RESEARCH FUND (WCRF UK)

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You take steps, so we can take strides !

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Help us to prevent cancer – take part in our Walking Together campaign by organising a sponsored walk to support WCRF UK. Download or request your free information pack:

Visit www.wcrf-uk.org/walk or call freephone 0800 970 1461

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World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF UK) 22 Bedford Square, London WC1B 3HH Tel: 020 7343 4205 Website: www.wcrf-uk.org Email: events@wcrf.org Twitter: www.twitter.com/wcrf_uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/wcrfuk Blog: blog.wcrf-uk.org Registered with the Charity Commission in England and Wales (Registered Charity No: 1000739) © 2010 World Cancer Research Fund

“Stopping cancer before it starts”

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LOCAL CLUB EVENTS: Archaeology in Marlow 20th October, 8pm Liston Hall, Chapel St, Marlow An introduction to responsible metal detecting - James Mather www.archaeologyinmarlow. org.uk, 01628 481792 Marlow Society 25th October, 7.30pm Garden Room, Liston Hall A sporting history of Marlow - Graham Sweet, Alan Pike & Ian Black Marlow Camera Club 1st November, 7.45 for 8pm Church Hall, Methodist Church, Spittal St, Marlow Intoduction to off camera flash photographic techniques and live demonstrations - QuocHuy & Nguyen Dinh Archaeology in Marlow 10th November 8pm Liston Hall, Chapel St, Marlow Bucks, Bricks & Brickyards - Catherine Grigg, www.archaeologyinmarlow.org.uk 01628 481792 Marlow Society 21st November, 7.30pm Garden Room, Liston Hall Local Photographs with Barrie Lee Marlow Archaeology Society 24th November, 8pm Garden Room, Liston Hall, Marlow The history of place names - David Peacock, www.marlow-archaeology.org/ Marlow Camera Club 29th November, 7.30pm Church Hall, Methodist Church, Spittal St, Marlow Stuart Griffiths, ex soldier turned photographer to talk about his work in photography, the armed forces and his life story Marlow Camera Club 13th December, 7.30pm Church Hall, Methodist Church, Spittal St, Marlow Christmas Social WEDDING FAIRS/OPEN DAYS Danesfield House Hotel & Spa - Wedding Open Day 16th October, 11.30am - 3pm www.danesfieldhouse. co.uk/ or or 01628 891010 THEATRE AND MUSICAL EVENTS Windsor Contemporary Art Fair 12- 13th November at Royal Windsor Key to Events:

Charity Events

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Racecourse, 01753 591892 or www.windsorcontemporaryartfair.co.uk Danesfield House Hotel & Spa - Concert Evening 25th November, www.danesfieldhouse. co.uk/ or 01628 891010 The Marlow Players - Prescription for Murder by Norman Robbins 24 - 26th November Shelley Theatre, Court Garden, Marlow Tickets: 01491 640761, www.marlowplayers.org.uk or Marlow information centre

BUSINESS/NETWORKING EVENTS Wycombe Business Expo 28th October at Cressex Community School, High Wycomber www,wycombebusinessexpo.com Entrepreneurs Business Expo 3rd November, Brunel University Call 07958 463689 or visit www. entrepreneurs-business-expo. co.uk for more details Business Biscotti - Marlow Every second Thursday 9.30 - 11.30am Danesfield House Hotel, Marlow www.businessbiscotti.co.uk Thames Valley Business Womens Group Every second Monday 7pm for 7.30pm start CIM, Cookham, www.TVBWG.com Business Biscotti - Maidenhead Every third Thursday 9 - 11am Temple Golf Club, Maidenhead www.businessbiscotti.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS CLOCKS GO BACK - 30th October Lions Charities Fair 5th November, 10.30am Desborough Suite, Maidenhead Town Hall Marlow Bottom Fireworks 5th November, 5.30pm gates open and show starts at 7pm Burford School - stalls, hot food and bar www.marlowbottomfireworks.com Marlow Half Marathon 6th November, 9.30 start at Sir WIlliam Borlase Grammer school

Weddings

One-off events

Clubs for Adults

Marlow late night shopping 8th December on the High Street Maidenhead Christmas lights switch on, 26th November, Maidenhead Town Hall Carols on the Causeway, Marlow 19th December

CROWNE PLAZA, MARLOW

Fieldhouse Lane, Marlow, www. crowneplazamarlow.co.uk/, 01628 496800

Midas Antique Fairs Every 4th Sunday, 10 - 4pm Spooky Halloween Party 28th October 4 - 7pm with mini disco and buffet - £9 Christmas Market 26th November 2011 - Get in the mood for Christmas with carol singers, mulled wine and mince pies whilst shopping for the perfect Christmas present solutions. Comedy Club 7th and 15th December Get together with our other party goers in our stunning Winterlake Suite and enjoy a two course fork buffet, followed by live Comedy Club entertainment. £30pp. Christmas Day Lunch Served 1-3pm Celebrate Christmas Day in style and enjoy a delicious 3 course buffet lunch, including arrival glass of bubbles. Plus Santa with presents for all the little ones - £69 pp, £32.50 per child aged 3-12; under 3s eat free.

Theatre & Music

Business Meetings

Boxing Day Bubbly Brunch 11.30am - 1.30pm, £19.95 pp; £9.95 per child aged 3-12; under 3s eat free. FLASH Don’t forget: Kids’ Corner and Movie Club available.

New Year’s Strictly Crowne Plaza Ball Welcome in the New Year in a sea of sequins! Enjoy a glass of bubbly on arrival, followed by a sumptuous 5 course dinner. Then tango, salsa and foxtrot the night away, accompanied by Straight Eight and The Polka Dot Girls. Countdown to midnight, with a firework finale over the lake, £85pp Dress Code is Black Tie.

Kenton Theatre Friday 28th and Saturday 29th October 8pm. Blackeyed Theatre Company, in association with South Hill Park Arts Centre and The Courtyard Centre for Arts, presents OH WHAT A LOVELY WAR “Magnificent…Extraordinary…As haunting as it is harrowing…Astonishing power…Any assumption that Oh!What a Lovely War is a period piece is shot to shrapnel. Forty years on, we need Littlewood’s vision more than ever. Blackeyed Theatre restore it to us with astonishing power. Catch it if you can” The Stage. Friday 9th December 7.30pm. NATIONAL YOUTH JAZZ ORCHESTRA The first half features a presentation of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol with jazz themes by Paul Hart and a live voiceover, while the second half covers a selection of popular Christmas music with vocals. A glittering showcase for the country’s best young musicians. Tickets Adult £20 and Concessions £18

MACDONALD COMPLEAT ANGLER, MARLOW Marlow Bridge, Marlow 0844 879 9128 http://www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/compleatangler

Macmillan cancer support lunch 4th November, 11.30am for drinks, 12.30pm for set course lunch - £30pp Michael Parkinson guest speaker “Vegas” Join-A-Parties Festive Nights 2nd December, 3rd December, 7th December, 8th December, 10th December, 13th December, 14th December, 19th December, 20th December Enjoy a glass of Prosecco on arrival at 7pm, followed by a sumptuous three course meal, then be entertained “Vegas” style with Sinatra classics such as “Fly me to the moon” and “ Mr Bojangles”. Then choose to dance the rest of the evening to our resident DJ or place your bets at the Casino.

Sunday 11th December 2.30pm. and 6pm. Ballet Theatre UK presents THE SNOW QUEEN “Magical…the dancers took us to fairy land and back. What an antidote to the everyday grey world” – Newbury Weekly News Wednesday 14th December 11am. and 2pm. Blunderbus Theatre Company presents THE VERY SNOWY CHRISTMAS It’s the night before Christmas and Big Mouse and Little Mouse are putting up decorations. Little Mouse scampers out to search for holly, but finds big white flakes falling from the sky. “Goodness me!” he cries. “The sky is coming undone!” Suitable for children from 3-7 years old.

Many clubs meet regularly at Liston Court, Chapel Street. For more information contact them directly on t 472 558

Wednesday 21st and Thursday 22nd December 2pm. Friday 23rd December 6.30pm. and Saturday 24th December 2pm. OXFORDSHIRE THEATRE COMPANY PRESENTS JUNGLE BOOK. Adapted from the Rudyard Kipling Stories By Neil Duffield A Family Show of the thrilling and heart- warming story of Mowgli, the boy brought up by wolves. Educated by Baloo, the bear and Bagheera, the panther, and hunted by the great tiger, Shere Khan, Mowgli must learn the laws of the jungle and become a young man with the confidence to walk alone.

Marlow Antique bric-a-brac fair meets on 1st Saturday of the month at Liston Hall from 9-4pm

Please mention Along the Thames Magazine when booking.

For more information or changes to the schedules as listed please call Marlow Information Centre on 01628 483597 Longridge in Marlow t: 483252 - e:bookings@longridge-uk.org

The Farmers Market, in Marlow Dean Street Car Park every Sunday, 10am - 2pm Bourne End Country Market product Small Hall 10 - 12 , Every Friday

PLEASE CONTACT THE BOX OFFICE MONDAY TO FRIDAY 11AM - 5PM, SATURDAY 10AM - 1PM

01491 575698

If you would like your event advertised contact 01628 771 419 / 07711 887107 or e: office@ AlongTheThames.co.uk

OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR ALL PRODUCTIONS AT

Use the QR code (with your phone) opposite to go straight to our website.

New Street, Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, RG9 2BP

www.kentontheatre.co.uk Free Parking available in Waitrose car park after 6pm

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Horoscopes Would you like to know how you can make the most of your personal journey through life? Would you like to know how you can be the very best version of yourself? I can help you to achieve personal transformation, discover your purpose and work towards achieving your dreams. I am also a trained life coach and a practitioner of Bach flower essence therapy and I offer a full motivational and transformational coaching programme. Using cosmic wisdom and awareness you can plan your year ahead by tuning into productive planetary cycles and gaining the clarity and insight needed for optimal abundance and success. You can also overcome fears and anxiety and replace them with assertiveness and selfconfidence. Consultations are available in person, on the telephone or Skype. Gift vouchers are also available. Please contact me for more information. Christine Chalklin

Inspirational Astrologer, Life Coach and Business Consultant, www.RestyleYourLife.co.uk - christine@RestyleYourLife.co.uk

Telephone: 07813 483549

Aries

March 21 - April 20

October is a most favourable time to achieve your desires and to reach your goals. Energetic Mars makes wonderful aspects to your Sun all month and initiating new projects should be high on your agenda. You know what you want and have the extra energy to go after it. November is also an exciting month for Aries, Venus and Mercury are in optimistic Sagittarius and they both illuminate the sector of your chart concerned with further education, adventure and travel. On the 11th, dynamic Mars moves into hard working Virgo and brings a new perspective to your plans.

Taurus

Gemini May 22 - June 22

Energetic Mars is in the communication area of your chart and this vibrant energy means that October is an ideal time to push ahead in business or at work to climb up the ladder. You can really take the initiative now and start projects with a high probability of success. November: Relationships and partnerships are the main focus for Gemini this month. Romantic Venus and your ruler Mercury are both in freedom loving Sagittarius. This could heighten your need for independence and free expression; any claustrophobic or restrictive relationships will have to be closely examined now.

Cancer June 23 - July 23

With four planets in balanced Libra this month, the focus is on your home and family life. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll feel the need to question things that arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t working and find solutions for a more balanced outcome. With energetic Mars in your financial sector, money matters are also emphasised. November brings your work and career zone into the spotlight. The planetary emphasis is in freedom loving Sagittarius, you are asked to review all those areas where you feel restricted and unappreciated. After the 10th, dynamic Mars in diligent Virgo assists with communication and enables you to get what you desire.

Leo

July 24 - August 23

Motivational Mars is in your sign all this month giving you a strong urge to get what you want. You are also much more self assertive than usual and you need to channel this highly creative energy constructively to avoid disagreements with others. The new moon in Libra on the 26th is favourable for new friends and relationships. November: Make the most of energetic Mars in your sign until the 10th. You courage and selfconfidence should have grown considerably during the last months so put what you have learned into practice. Love and romance take on a new perspective this month as Venus shines her favourable light on you.

Virgo

April 21 - May 21

August 24 - September 23

Venus is in your opposite sign during October. The planet of love and money should increase activity in the relationship department. Abundant and expansive Jupiter in your sign all year means that a lack of discipline and overindulgence are other things to be mindful of at the moment. November: Money and finances are the focus of the month for Taureans. Always concerned with resources, this month brings new energy and a fresh perspective on all things to do with funds and assets. As dynamic Mars moves to the most creative part of your chart new ideas and plans start to emerge.

Four planets occupy the financial sector of your chart this month and money matters are high on the agenda. The Sun and Venus in beauty seeking Libra can guarantee a strong need for high quality goods. Normally careful Virgoans could enjoy a shopping spree, if the moneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s there - spend it! November: With energetic Mars in your sign from the 11th this can turn out to be the month where you could achieve anything that you have set your heart on. Optimistic Jupiter, in fellow earth sign Taurus, also bestows a new aura of confidence and self-assurance and the 18th is particularly advantageous for success.

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Libra

September 24 - October 23

It’s your birthday month and with four planets in your sign you’re bound to have a very special time. Venus, your ruler, insists that you make the most out of your appearance as attracting new friends and relationships are highly favoured. Energetic Mars in your career sector shows that goals and ambitions can be tackled creatively and successfully. November: Task master Saturn is still advancing through your sign and demands that you seek a better balance in all areas of your life. Communication is highly favoured this month and you’ll find an entirely new way of getting your message across. Do it in diplomatic Libran style and you are sure to succeed

Scorpio

October 24 - November 22

Volatile energy for Scorpios this month as dynamic Mars is in challenging aspect to your Sun. This energy creates tension and could cause difficulties in relationships. The best way to succeed is to try to see things from other people’s perspective. The new moon in your sign on the 26th, heralds the start of a new and positive cycle. November It is your birthday month and the focus is on finances and new ways of bringing in some extra income. This is a good month to let innovative plans and ideas take shape, as you should feel energetic enough to dispose of old habits that hold you back. Partnerships are also favoured with optimistic Jupiter in Taurus.

THE COSMOS

DURING

OCTOBER & NOVEMBER

We start October with the Sun, Saturn Mercury and Venus all in the balanced and harmonious sign of the scales. Libra is ruled by Venus, the goddess of love and beauty, during October you can allow yourself to feel more beautiful than ever, attracting wonderful people and things into your life. This is also an excellent time for giving and receiving love and affection. Personal creativity is also high on the agenda this month as Mars, the powerful planet of action, moves through dramatic and courageous Leo. Mid-month, deep and passionate Scorpio influences take over, allowing for a fuller expression of our love nature and creativity. The full moon is in Aries on the 12th and the new moon is in Scorpio on the 26th. November: Romantic Venus, along with Mercury the planet of communication and travel, spend most of the month in optimistic and truth seeking Sagittarius. Broader vision, optimism and a fresh perspective are the cosmic gifts to everyone during November. But do take care as Mercury is back in Retrograde motion on the 24th, diligent checking of correspondences and travel arrangements are once again essential. Action packed Mars is still in fiery and creative Leo until the 10th, innovative ideas should blossom now. On the 11th, Mars shifts to hardworking Virgo and thought out plans and ideas can become reality. The full moon on the 10th is in down to earth Taurus, possessions and finances come to the forefront and the Sun in passionate Scorpio brings intensity to needs and desires. Swim with the cosmic tides rather than against them!

Sagittarius

Aquarius

Dynamic Mars is in positive aspect to your Sun all this month. The action planet gives an increased sense of energy levels and self confidence. This is a most favourable time to reach for your goals and achieve your desires. Your social life is also high on the agenda as harmonious Venus assures new and exciting friendships. November: Communicative Mercury and romantic Venus are both in your sign this month; you should feel at the top of your game. Your ruler, the optimistic and expansive Jupiter, favours the work sector of your chart. New prospects could arrive now, particularly after the 10th as energetic Mars reaches dynamic new heights.

Dynamic Mars is in your opposite sign all month, this tense energy presents a challenge you have to overcome in order to achieve a certain goal or simply to be yourself. Challenges will come your way, but with an abundance of harmonious Libran influence also available, you should find a positive way to win through. November: Neptune has returned to your sign for a few moths and this may mean that unfinished business has to be sorted out now. Groups, clubs and involvement with new networks are of particular interest and as Mars changes sign on the 11th you are drawn to working together with interesting new people.

November 23 - December 22

Capricorn December 23 - January 19

Romance and high ambitions are both favoured this month. Mighty Jupiter resides in the love and creativity sector of your chart and four planets in harmonious Libra illuminate your career goals. This positive energy energizes all communications and interactions with others. Friendships and relationships are highly favoured during November. Expansive Jupiter in Taurus expands your circle and could bring romance knocking on you door! Adventure and travel are in the spotlight after the 10th as dynamic Mars stirs up your restless side and you start to yearn for broader horizons

January 20 - February 19

Pisces

February 20 - March 20

How you carry out your work and the harnessing of your resources are in the spotlight this month. Pisces now has a wonderful opportunity to use the four planet line-up in balanced Libra. You will find innovative and creative ways to reorganise those areas that are not as they should be. November: Your ruling planet Neptune has dipped back into Aquarius until February 2012. Far from bringing more confusion into your life, used properly this move could bring opportunities to expand your horizons both intellectually and spiritually. It is time to acquire the knowledge and wisdom that you need.

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Useful Numbers MARLOW- CLUBS Archaeology in Marlow ........................................... 472126 Marlow Archaeological Society .............................. 523896 Bowls ..................................................................... 485274 Boxing ......................................................... 01494 532826 Crafts ........................................................ 473872/473539 Football .................................................................. 483970 Hockey ................................................................... 521830 Plants (Orchids) .................................................... 486640 Petanque ............................................................... 521783 Photography ............................................. 482164/483030 Rugby ....................................................... 483911/477054 Running ................................................................. 474885 Four Seasons Club ................................................ 474095 Tennis ................................................................... 483638 New Marlow Tennis Academy .............................. 488438 Rifle & Pistol Club ...................................... 01494 676676 Longridge ............................................................. 486595 Marlow & District Wine Society ........................... 630341 Marlow Society/History ........................................ 476140 Rotary Club................................................. 01494 530952 LETS .......................................................... 01494 523978 U3A ......................................................... 485220/488865 Operatic Society .................................................. 475973 Community Choir .................................... 602581/661182 Railway Society ................................................... 486433 Choral Society ..................................................... 472998 Marlow Orators ........................................ 07738 540287 MARLOW - COUNCIL Bus Services ............................................. 01494 441818 Liston Hall ........................................................... 472558 Marlow Information centre ..................... 483597/481717 Library ...................................................... 0845 2303232 Town Council .......................................... 484024/481146 Neighbourhood Watch ............................. 020 77723348 Police ....................................................... 0845 8505505 Trains ........................................................ 0845 7000125 Wycombe Council .................................... 01494 461000 MARLOW - HOSPITALS Marlow Cottage .................................................. 482292 NHS Direct ................................................. 0800 595000 Wycombe ................................................. 01494 526161

Stockists from Pages 38 - 40 Swish t: 476 467 . w: www.swishboutique.co.uk, a: 5 Liston Court, Marlow No25 of Bourne End t: 528 877 w: www.no25ofbourneend.co.uk a: 25-27 The Parade, Bourne End Peakes of Maidenhead t: 622 665 . w: www.peakesofmaidenhead.co.uk, a: 77 - 79 King Street, Maidenhead Unique Boutique t: 07973 368394 e: sg.stokepoges@btinternet.com

Answer to drop down quiz, page 8 Answers from left to right: Bulldog, Lurcher, , Mastiff, Spaniel, Whippet Answer to TV Doctors Quiz, page 51 1. Dr. Nikki Alexander -Silent Witness 2. Dr. Richard Kimble - The Fugitive 3. Dr. Doug Ross - E.R. 4. Dr. Robert Chase - House 5. Dr. Bunsen Honeydew - The Muppet Show 6. Dr. Richard Burke - Friends 7. Dr. John Dorian - Scrubs 8. Dr. Cristina Yang - Grey's Anatomy 9. Dr. Nick Riviera - The Simpsons 10. Dr. Sam Beckett - Quantum Leap Answer to Crossword, page 60

MARLOW - DENTISTS Marlow Dental Centre ........................................ 486096 La Perla Clinic ..................................................... 488499 St John Ambulance .................................. 01494 474748

Across: 1 Haberdasher, 9 Leopard, 10 Usage, 11 Moat, 12 Reveille, 14 Mocha, 15 Pinch, 20 Original, 22 Oslo, 24 Tiara, 25 Genuine, 26 Needlepoint.

BOURNE END Library ................................................................ 524814 Community Centre ............................................ 527502

Down: 2 Avocado, 3 Edam, 4 Dodgem, 5 Souvenir, 6 Email, 7 Blame, 8 Fever, 13 Thailand, 16 Cushion, 17 Aorta, 18 Bangle, 19 Bogey, 21 Image, 23 Undo. Answer to Spot the Difference, page 60

Congratulations to the winners of the following book competition held in the August/September 2011 issue. Mind Bending Puzzles & Fascinating Facts by Paul Williams: A. Smith, J.Piller, C. Cotton

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1. Mouth changed 2. Bird on the car 3. Sun 4. Zipper gone 5. Teeth missing 6. Balloon 7. Track missing 8. Ladies hand 9. Hair colour 10. Pattern gone

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A Place to Celebrate Life Chiltern Woodland Burial ial Park is a stunning venue for funerals, memorial services, conferences erences and events. Set in 72 acres of mature woodland, the e beautiful ceremonial buildings offer a unique experience. perience. rking, We offer catering facilities, plenty of parking, ff, mobility buggies and highly trained staff, Chiltern Burial Park is truly a cemetery of our time. We give all of our families a minimum off m two hours for each funeral, the freedom to personalise each ceremony, ss complimentary refreshments and access to the woodland park 365 days a year. Within the beautiful woodlands, familiess can ir loved one choose the perfect resting place for their for the burial or, following cremation, ashes shes can be scattered or buried in the woodland. d and Graves and ashes plots may be selected purchased in advance, giving peace of mind to those planning for their own future. Our woodland burial park offers a unique ue ge and caring experience with a price range that makes the park accessible to all.

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ALONG THE THAMES Potkiln Lane, Jordans, Beaconsfield, P Bucks. 75 HP9 2XB