Burlingtons Magazine - Autumn 2023

No 14 l AUTUMN 2023

Lest we forget

Crafting precision The art of the military tailor

Whisky business An investment to raise the spirits

En garde!

Delve into the world of fencing

Perfecting Perfecting the the art art of of shooting shooting since since 1835.

1835.

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Drawn from lawyers, accountants, wealth managers, tax and fiduciary advisors and other experts across the globe, we come together to provide a seamless service for all our clients’ business and personal needs. With a history dating back to the 1770s, and Headquartered in the heart of London’s West End, we also have representative offices in Almaty, Geneva, Gibraltar and Malta and a wider international reach through our trusted professional partners.

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CEO FROM THE

W

elcome to the Autumn 2023 issue of Burlingtons Magazine.

As you will have noticed, our cover is somewhat different for this issue – a simple, poignant reminder of those fallen in conflict.

My grandfather and father were in the Army and Royal Air Force respectively, and both saw action: the former in World War II and the latter during the Suez Crisis. Many clients and friends have served in the Forces and have been touched by the full horror of war, so we felt it fitting to focus on Remembrance Day in this issue.

On page 22, I take a closer look at some of the classical composers whose works help to commemorate conflicts, while on page 40, we explore the origins of Remembrance Day. On page 56, we focus on a different side of the military, as James Richards meets the operations director of the military tailor Kashket & Partners, whose uniforms took centre stage at the Coronation of King Charles III. Meanwhile, our usual mix of lifestyle and business features includes a focus on the crown jewel of London’s real estate, Mayfair (page 62); an introduction to some of the rising British stars of the classical music world (page 32); plus a look at investing in whisky (page 46).

I will be hosting a live webinar on 19 October, which will be followed by our roadshow in Malta on 7 November and our London roadshow on 13 November, culminating in a champage reception on the evening of 16 November. We look forward to seeing many of you at these events. For more details, turn to page 30.

Deborah Mills Chief Executive Officer Burlingtons Group Limited

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BURLINGTONS GROUP Deborah Mills CEO Burlingtons Group (deborah.mills@burlingtons.group) Jordan D Jordan Head of Private Office & EA to CEO (jordan.jordan@burlingtons.group) Henry Mills Head of Real Estate (henry.mills@burlingtons.realestate) Peter Young Head of Tax and Fiduciary (peter.young@burlingtons.legal) Alistair Muscat Head of Wealth Management (am@integra-pw.com)

Burlingtons magazine is published by CPL One

ADVERTISING

For advertising enquiries or to find out more about Burlingtons Group contact: rory.fear@cplone.co.uk 01727 739181

EDITORIAL

Publisher: Stewart Dymock Editor: Amy Bennett Sub Editor: Phil Minett Contributors: Sophia Barnett, Kayleigh Dray, Andy Morris, James Richards & Peter Taylor-Whiffen

DESIGN

Creative Director: Peter Davies Senior Designer: Caitlyn Hobbs © 2023 Burlingtons Group Articles and other contributions published in this journal may be reproduced only with special permission from the Burlingtons Group. Burlingtons Group and the publishers (CPL One) accept no responsibility for any views or statements made in the articles and other contributions reproduced from any other source. No responsibility is accepted for the claims in advertisements appearing in this journal and the publishers reserve the right to accept or refuse advertisements at their discretion.

CPL One Alban Row, 27-31 Verulam Rd, St Albans AL3 4DG stewart.dymock@cplone.co.uk 01727 893894 info@cplone.co.uk

Burlingtons magazine is published by CPL One Ltd. www.cplone.co.uk Burlingtons magazine is printed on FSC® mixed credit – Mixed source products are a blend of FSC 100%, Recycled and/or Controlled fibre. Certified by the Forest Stewardship Council®.

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THE

ULTIMATE The experiences and purchase s that are the pick of the seaso n

CONTENTS

Words: A n dy Morr is

No 14 l AUTUMN 2023

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R E C R E AT E C L A R I D G E’ S I N YO U R OW N HOM E W I T H B RYA N O’ SU L L I VA N

If you weren't lucky enough to bag some vintage Claridge’s items at this summer’s NCM auction, try the designer who is taking the hotel’s art deco style into the 21st century. O’Sullivan has launched his first furniture range available to the public, full of his signature curves and scallops. The 36 pieces are, in the words of the designer, ‘fit for function, comfortable, but with a sense of humour’. From delightful tchotchkes to considerable investments (the Harvest dining table for £37,200), each piece is indulgent without being OTT, singular without being showy. Bonus: the croissant sofa looks good enough to eat.

From £9,360.

Bos-studio.com

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THE U LT I M AT E

Experiences and purchases that are the pick of the season

To see how we can help with our wide range of professional services, please go to our website, available on your computer, tablet or smartphone www.burlingtons.group

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C L AS SIC A L C OM P O SE R S

At a time of year when we remember those lost in battle, we look at some of the composers whose most famous pieces reflect on conflict, patriotism, grief and the horrors of war

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T H E SE AS ON

Plan your visit to some of the top arts, cultural and sporting events this autumn and winter

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MUSICAL YOUTH

Meet some of the young musicians who are hitting all the right notes as classical music enjoys a well-deserved renaissance

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A F T E R DA R K

Stylish bars for an after-show nightcap in London’s Theatreland

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BU R L I NG TON S ROA D SHOW

Malta and London are hosting Burlingtons Group webinars

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I N F L A N DE R S FIELDS

A focus on Remembrance Day

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P O STC A R D F ROM M AY FA I R , L ON D ON

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A W H I SK Y BU SI N E S S

An investment that raises the spirits – buying whisky

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T H E A RT OF T H E M I L I TA RY TA I L OR

Kashket & Partners’ ceremonial uniforms are fit for a king

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A C A R E E R OF T WO HA LV E S

Meet the footballer turned lawyer

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M AY FA I R U N V E I L E D

How the crown jewel in London’s real estate market has weathered 2023’s economic tremors

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LU X U RY T R AV E L

Explore the world’s most sumptuous stargazing destinations

78 B OR I S

Top tips on starting a collection of historical military medals

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E N G A R DE !

The sport of fencing offers a perfect blend of fast-paced action, precision, skill and strategy

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THE

ULTIMATE T h e exp e r i ences and purchas es that are the p i ck o f the s eas on Words: Andy Mo rr is

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R E C R E AT E C L A R I D G E’ S I N YO U R OW N HOM E W I T H B RYA N O’ SU L L I VA N

If you weren't lucky enough to bag some vintage Claridge’s items at this summer’s NCM auction, try the designer who is taking the hotel’s art deco style into the 21st century. O’Sullivan has launched his first furniture range available to the public, full of his signature curves and scallops. The 36 pieces are, in the words of the designer, ‘fit for function, comfortable, but with a sense of humour’. From delightful tchotchkes to considerable investments (the Harvest dining table for £37,200), each piece is indulgent without being OTT, singular without being showy. Bonus: the croissant sofa looks good enough to eat.

From £9,360.

Bos-studio.com

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T RU ST P R I VAT E W H I T E VC , W HAT E V E R T H E W E AT H E R

After the summer we’ve had in England, the importance of quality waterproof outerwear cannot be underestimated.

Made in one of the last remaining factories in Manchester, Private White VC's ‘Autumn Rain’ collection boasts the hard-wearing, handcrafted garments they have specialised in for more than a century. Best of all, the red Ventile mac is smart enough for the inevitable enforced five days a week office return – that will no doubt coincide with a torrential downpour. £525. privatewhitevc.com

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C H E C K M AT E : A N E W E R A F OR BU R B E R RY A R R I V E S I N S TOR E S

Daniel Lee’s vision for one of the great British labels deftly cherry-picks elements of Anglophile heritage. Part punk, part landed gentry, it is comfortable having rapper Skepta, actor Vanessa Redgrave and a grinning corgi share the spotlight in its ad campaigns. Lee, a gifted British designer formerly of Bottega Veneta, has produced a line that manages to evoke the irreverent, elegant and independent Britain we can believe in. Invest in a new bag, coat or water bottle at the refurbed flagship store on Old Bond Street – and yes, before you ask, the fur is the only thing that is fake.

From £250.

Burberry.com

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I N V E ST I N LU G G AG E BU I LT F OR 1 6 - HO U R F L I G H T S

Five years after launching in Australia, this extremely light and exceptionally hardwearing luggage is now ready to take on the world. Founders and frequent travellers Athan Didaskalou and Richard Li built the July brand with clumsy baggage handling in mind, reinforcing all the elements that often go wrong such as wheels, handles, seams and scratchproof coating for the hard-shell polycarbonate. With a lifetime warranty and now a full-on ‘family’ range, this is useful if you’re planning a casual jaunt. £715 for a family set.

July.com

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M OR E C ASUA L SI DE OF L O C K & C O. I S NO L E S S LU X U R I OU S

If you are one of the million people who has watched Paul Rudd and Jimmy Fallon perform ‘Teenie Weanie Beanie’ on YouTube, you will be well aware of the risks of the wrong headgear in the winter months.

Select something that will last from Lock & Co., made in cashmere with enough length to fully shield your ears from the elements.

It may not get as much attention as a Lock fedora, but for some of us that is one of its primary attractions. £175. lockhatters.com

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P R A DA’ S F I R S T MAKE-UP LINE HOP E S TO R E DE F I N E B E AU T Y

The most anticipated beauty launch of the year did not disappoint. Offering the signature flair one might expect from the definitive Milanese fashion house, Prada has also ensured each item is refillable, offering the kind of sustainable luxury other brands can only aim at. All 26 lipsticks are matte, ranging from soft through to the intense ‘hyper’, and each one glides effortlessly with an ease that resembles a balm. The jewel in the crown is the augmented serum that promises to hydrate the skin, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and minimise the effect from pollution.

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From £29.50.

Prada.com

U LYS SE NA R DI N DE F I E S C AT E G OR I S AT I ON – A N D G R AV I T Y

A true curio and conversation starter that resembles a Star Trek executive toy, this 'spin on the table' clock was created by Ulysse Nardin to mark its 175th anniversary. What it accomplished is so much more; this is the Swiss company’s projection on the future of luxury horology. Built from 675 components, each UFO – ‘unidentified floating object’ – sways when nudged and then rights itself. They have already proven popular with collectors – one model was sold for more than £341,000 at auction. Three new limited editions, in champagne, ice-blue and green, have been unveiled recently for three partners – The Hour Glass, Bucherer and Yoshida in Japan. Each comes complete with a handblown glass dome; even the tiniest flaw would compromise the vision. £59,722. ulysse-nardin.com/uk_en/ufo burlingtons

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E P I C R E - I M AG I N G OF I N T E R I OR S AT R H E NG L A N D, T H E G A L L E RY

To really capture the imagination, you have to see furniture in situ. Masterminded by CEO Gary Friedman, the American interiors brand RH has unveiled its monumental first project in the UK, taking over the Grade I listed country estate Aynhoe Park in Banbury, Oxfordshire, and kitting-out more than 60 rooms. Having made some key changes (both the taxidermy bear and giraffe have been rehomed) this is now the country pile of your dreams, complete with multiple indulgent restaurants and RH custom furniture. No wonder Bridgerton’s Regé-Jean Page looked so at home at the lavish launch party. rh.com/us/en/england

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T H E S O - C A L L E D ‘SK I P P E R E R A’ R E B OR N

The original ‘Heuer Skipper’ was inspired by the Intrepid, the blue-decked winner of the America’s Cup in 1967, under the expert guidance of Emil ‘Bus’ Mosbacher. The combination of a fascinating backstory, limited stock and refined design have made this catnip for watch fanatics. Now, thankfully, TAG Heuer has reissued this yacht-friendly modern chronograph with its distinctive blue sun-ray dial. Supremely wearable on dry land, it is also water-resistant down to 100m – which might come in handy if you are not as skilled a skipper as Mosbacher. £5,900.

Tagheuer.com

From £396 per night. thegeorgian.com

amiri.com

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DE L I B E R AT E LY W E S A N DE R S ON : T H E G E ORG IA N I S R E B OR N

Ninety years after bursting onto the Santa Monica scene, The Georgian has been revitalised.

Once a favourite with Marilyn Monroe, Clark Gable and mobster Al Capone, the Californian hotel eventually fell out of favour. But now, the team behind hipster hangout The Ace Hotel has transformed the old girl with an interiors style dubbed ‘Havana Deco’. Look out for a button marked ‘champagne’ in your room that summons a bellhop with a bar cart.

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THE

OCT

SEASON Ess e n tial dates fo r the diar y

■ 4-15 OCTOBER – B F I L O N D O N F I L M F E S T I VA L Book a seat for the unveiling of some of the world’s best new films at London’s South Bank or various West End venues. Before enjoying the silver screen, why not book a table at Skylon on the third floor of the Royal Festival Hall to sample the very best seasonal produce while taking in panoramic views of the London skyline.

■ 28 OCTOBER – RU G B Y WO R L D C U P F I NA L

Book the best seat in the house at the Stade de France in Paris for the thrilling finale of seven weeks of outstanding sport. Enjoy gourmet food, the very best in wines and champagne, and great views of the game, with hospitality packages available for £4,999 per person.

■ 30-31 OCTOBER – T H E A RT O F LU X U RY Renowned writer and historian Geneviève Fontan has amassed an incredible collection of Hermès items over the years, and Bonhams will offer a number of pieces over the course of two days in Paris. Starting with her collection on day one and continuing with ‘the silk scarf since 1937’ on day two, this is a once-in-alifetime opportunity to snap up some iconic pieces.

■ 30 OCTOBER-5 NOVEMBER – RO L E X PA R I S M A S T E R S

The ninth and final ATP Masters 1000 event of the season sees the cream of the crop vying to clinch the title at the world’s biggest indoor tournament. After enjoying the very best tennis has to offer, book a table at Restaurant Guy Savoy to enjoy the delectable ‘Colours, textures & flavours’ menu.

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NOV

■ 1-3 NOVEMBER –

B O BW H I T E Q UA I L H U N T

Exclusive gunmaker Holland & Holland has partnered with Artistry Afield to offer a shoot with a difference. Spend three days in America’s Deep South, on a Bobwhite quail hunt in Georgia.

Expert advice from a shooting instructor, a head chef to produce mouth-watering delicacies, and a mule-drawn wagon to shoot from make this unique experience one for the bucket list.

■ 5 NOVEMBER – I M P O RTA N T WATC H E S Take time for a closer look at the Sotheyby's Important Watches Geneva auction. Featuring some of the rarest and most desirable wristwatches around, items include both vintage and contemporary pieces.

■ 26 NOVEMBER – A BU D HA B I GRAND PRIX

The Formula 1 season reaches its thrilling climax in Abu Dhabi, with 58 pulsating laps of the Yas Marina Circuit on Yas Island. Celebrate in style by booking a luxurious stay on the MSC Virtuosa, the F1-themed cruise ship permanently docked at Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal.

■ 7 NOVEMBER – M E L B O U R N E C U P Be a part of the ‘race that stops a nation’ and watch on as European raiders take on the very best horses in Australia in this historic race. The first Tuesday in November is a public holiday in Melbourne, so join in the festivities by indulging in dinner at Vue de Monde for a culinary experience to rival the views from this 55th-floor destination.

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DEC ■ 6 DECEMBER-7 JANUARY – T H E N U T C R AC K E R

Start the festive season in style with a visit to the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden to see The Nutcracker, and enjoy a worldfamous afternoon tea at The Savoy as the perfect curtain-raiser.

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■ 13-18 DECEMBER – L O N D O N I N T E R NAT I O NA L H O R S E S H OW Enjoy the very best in equine activities at London’s ExCeL arena, with top-class showjumping, including the thrilling Puissance event, the FEI Dressage World Cup, and displays from world-renowned equestrians and from such as the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery. Book a private hospitality box to watch the wide range of events in style.

■ 10 DECEMBER – E N D O F T H E G RO U S E S E A S O N

What began four months earlier, on the Glorious 12th, comes to a close on 10 December in England, Scotland and Wales with the end of the grouse-shooting season. Why not secure a peg for one last hurrah on the grouse moors of Britain?

■ 31 DECEMBER – H O G M A NAY What better place to count down to the start of 2024 than in Edinburgh, a city renowned for its new year celebrations? Attend the Concert in the Garden at West Princes Street Garden, join in the annual street party in the city centre, and then retire to a luxurious suite in the Balmoral Hotel to recover in style.

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Classica l co m pose rs

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Classica l co m pose rs

THE POWER OF MUSIC A t th is ti m e of year, as we re me mbe r th os e l ost i n b attle , we lo ok at some of the co m p ose rs w h ose most famous pi e ce s re fle ct o n co n f l i c t , patri otism, gri e f an d the horrors of war Words: De bora h Mills

O

ver the centuries, many musical scores have been written not just to stir up patriotism but also to commemorate the fallen in conflicts around the world.

Among them is Haydn’s Mass in Time of War, composed in 1796 during the European war that followed the French Revolution. It is musically unsettling and brings out strong images of conflict and change.

Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture needs a mention here too.

Written in 1880, it commemorates the key battle of the Napoleonic Wars, the 1812 Battle of Borodino. Full of crashing cymbals and cannon fire, it has become one of the most famous classical pieces of all time.

That particular piece is closely followed by Beethoven’s Wellington’s Victory – to level the playing field so to speak – immortalising the Iron Duke’s victory over Napoleon at the Battle of Vitoria in 1813.

Moving forward to the great wars of the 20th century: during World War I, for example, different styles of classical music emerged, such as Elgar’s Cello Concerto,

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Classica l co m pose rs

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Vaughan Williams’ Pastoral Symphony and Holst’s The Planets, as well as Arthur Bliss’ poignant Piano Quartet, composed during the Battle of the Somme.

War Elegy, by Ivor Gurney, also reflects human sadness during battle and deep human conflict. A soldier in the Gloucestershire Regiment during World War I, Gurney was affected by shell shock. He was declared insane in 1922, spending the last 15 years of his life in institutions.

Perhaps the most recognised classical piece reflecting war and adversity is Dmitri Shostakovich’s greatest work, Symphony No. 7. The work is more commonly known as Leningrad, as the composer dedicated the piece to the city of Leningrad; it was premiered while the city was still under siege by the German army following Hitler’s attack on Russia.

One of the saddest symphonies reflecting war and grief, I feel, is Henryk Górecki’s Symphony No.3 also known as the Symphony of Sorrowful Songs. Górecki, a Polish composer, wrote the symphony in 1976. It comprises three movements and is

reflectively melancholic. The first movement is a 15th century Polish lament of Mary, mother of Jesus, sung by a solo soprano; the third, a folk song of a mother’s lament for her son killed by the Germans. For me, the second movement is the most poignant, reflecting as it does a message etched on the wall of a Gestapo cell by an interned 18-year-old girl during World War II, and which read: “No, Mother, do not weep, Most chaste Queen of Heaven support me always, Hail Mary, full of grace.”

Looking at Ukrainian composers, I am familiar with the compositions of Reinhold Glière (1875-1956). Of German/Polish heritage, Glière was born in Kyiv and his work embraced a great deal of Ukrainian culture. The composer lived through both world wars and some of his compositions reflected this. In particular, Gliere’s Symphony No.3 in B minor, Illia Mourometz, is an overt musical tribute to a medieval romantic and heroic knight in the vein of Galahad and

Lancelot (a ‘bogatyr’ – a courageous warrior or hero).

The most loved classical piece in Ukraine today is probably a piece composed by Myroslav Skoryk (19362020), entitled Melody. Composed in 1981, it was performed at the BBC Proms earlier this year. Daniel Hope, the renowned violinist, also plays the composition as an introduction to his album, Music for Ukraine.

Skoryk’s score, with echoes of Stravinsky and Prokofiev, reflects humour and colour against a horrific backdrop of his family having been deported from Ukraine to Siberia. He was only permitted back to Ukraine in 1955 after the death of Stalin, although his parents were forbidden to return.

Hope himself, being of South African descent, is no stranger to the tyranny of war; his maternal grandparents fled Berlin to escape the Nazis during World War II. All these composers lived through horrific wars, with most suffering great personal tragedy. Commemorating the fallen today we must recognise, respect and appreciate their work in assisting us to do so.

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AFTER DARK As th e au tum n s eas on gets under way o n Lo n d o n’ s We st E n d stages , w hy no t visi t s ome o f th e m ost st yl ish b ars i n Theatreland fo r an af te r-sh ow ni ghtcap o r two Words: So phia Ba rne tt 26

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Af te r da rk

■ BA R A M É R I C A I N , SOHO

The opulent art deco décor of Bar Américain provides the ideal backdrop for indulging in a late-evening cocktail. Paul Colin’s famed lithographs Le Tumulte Noir adorn the walls, paying homage to dancer, singer and civil rights activist Josephine Baker. With a cocktail menu spanning drinks from 1884 (the Turf Club, which takes its name from the famed New York City gentleman’s club) to 1948 (the Army & Navy, thought to originate in Washington DC), the menu also boasts a curated collection of wines and spirits. brasseriezedel.com/bar-americain

■ P LU M E , COVENT GARDEN

Spread across two storeys of the elegant building that housed Charles Dickens’ publishing house in the 1860s, Plume’s space is colourful and cosy by turns.

With more than 70 wines on offer, the menu includes a good range of English wines, including the Lyme Bay Brut Reserve from Devon and Henners Native Grace Bru from East Sussex. Alternatively, indulge in one of the tempting cocktails, accompanied by seasonal sharing plates. plumewinebar.com

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Af te r da rk ■ BA R S W I F T, SOHO

Pho to graphy : Addie Chinn

Take a seat in the downstairs bar in the heart of Theatreland and be transported to destinations around the world via Bar Swift’s inventive, creative cocktails. Sip a Broadway to visit New York; the Silhouette to transport yourself to Croatia; or enjoy a Foxtail and picture yourself in the heart of Sweden. Away from cocktails, a menu of more than 300 whiskies from around the world is also on offer.

■ THE BLIND PIG SOHO

barswift.com/soho

Above the Social Eating House in Soho – boasting an à la carte menu from Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton that heroes the very best of British produce – is the award-winning bar The Blind Pig. Antique mirrored ceilings and a copper-topped bar add to the relaxed speakeasy vibe, creating the ideal venue to sample fine wines or a cocktail from the creative menu. socialeatinghouse.com

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Af te r da rk

■ N I G H T JA R , CARNABY STREET

Ph oto grap hy : Andre w Mere dith

If you are not quite ready for the evening to end when the curtain falls at the theatre, a visit to Nightjar in Carnaby Street is the perfect solution. Enjoy live jazz from 9pm every Monday to Saturday, while enjoying cocktails from a varied menu. Divided into pre-Prohibition, Prohibition, post-war and signature, Nightjar’s cocktails include temptation for every palette, to accompany a range of decadent small plates that includes sea bass ceviche and steak tartare. nightjarcarnaby.com

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Burling to ns roadshow

PUTTING ON A SHOW In th e co m i ng wee ks , th e Bur li ng to ns Gro up will host a we binar, as we ll as roadsh ows i n Malta and London.

We l o ok fo r ward to s eei ng y ou at thes e e vents

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Bur Burling ling to tons ns roadshow roadshow

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e will be airing a live webinar on Thursday 19 October 2023 at 14:00 (GMT), hosted by Deborah Mills, founder and CEO of Burlingtons Group.

The webinar will highlight Burlingtons’ areas of professional services and specialised markets, while showcasing the upcoming roadshows in Malta and London.

The Malta Roadshow will start on Tuesday 7 November 2023 at the Westin Dragonara Resort, St Julian’s – a venue offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea as the hotel stands apart on a natural peninsula.

Commencing at 11:00 (local time), we will be presenting our full range of professional services from the following speakers: Deborah Mills, CEO of Burlingtons Group, will provide an overview of the group’s professional activities worldwide, the ground covered since its inception, and the group’s ambitions in the short term.

Paramjit Sehmi, head of the corporate and commercial department for Burlingtons Legal, will talk about some of the recent English law developments affecting M&A transactions, company secretarial requirements, and realestate ownership in the UK. Peter Young, head of tax, will give a number of examples of core international tax structuring.

Edward le Feuvre, head of accounting and fiduciary, will discuss the impact of grey listing on the provision of professional services in a number of jurisdictions.

Alistair Muscat, chief executive officer of Integra Private Wealth, based in Sliema, Malta, will give an overview of the current markets, challenges and opportunities.

Henry Mills, senior associate for Burlingtons Real Estate, will end the forum with a presentation about our real-estate activities, current portfolio, plans for its future, and our private office. l At the end of the event, we will be hosting a buffet lunch with refreshments, so hosts and guests can socialise and discuss. l The Burlingtons team will then head back to the London roadshow, which gets under way on Monday 13 November 2023. l The London Roadshow will be hosted at our head office at Stratford Place, close to Bond Street, an area of the city that is steeped in character and history. l We will hold a range of interactive seminars, while Tuesday and Wednesday of the event will be reserved to focus on one-toone meetings with clients and colleagues. l The London Roadshow will culminate at our head office on Thursday 16 November, from 6-9 pm, with a champagne reception with appetisers and a lively string quartet. l If you would like to receive further information concerning any of these events or would like to receive an invitation to the champagne reception or any of the seminars, please do not hesitate to contact Jordan D Jordan, Head of Private Office & EA to CEO at: jordan.jordan@burlingtons.group.

We look forward to meeting and greeting you all in the ensuing months.

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Young Br i tish classi cal musi cia ns

MUSICAL YOUTH Tre n ds co m e an d go, bu t th e classi cs ne ver go o u t o f st yle – s o it sh o uld co me as li ttle surprise that classical m usic is enjo y i ng a we ll-d e s e r ve d re naissan ce r i g h t now.

Mee t th e y o ung m usi cian s w ho are h i tti ng all th e r i g h t n o te s Words : Kay leigh Dray

A

recent study by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, the music streaming platform Deezer, and the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) has revealed a 17% increase in classical listeners worldwide on Deezer – with almost a third (31%) of Deezer’s classical listeners in the UK under 35.

What, though, is driving our new-found appetite? Clare Cook, CEO of Future Talent, believes it’s all down to ‘the impact of social media platforms [and] the remarkable fusion of diverse musical traditions’.

‘The marriage of classical crossover with genres such as Indian classical has opened doors to an enchanting symphony of cultures and styles,’ she says. ‘The classical music scene has never been more exhilarating, as it evolves, adapts and draws from a rich tapestry of traditions to create something uniquely beautiful.’

It’s also important to note that, while the classical music scene has had a problem with diversity for centuries, the likes of the Paraorchestra (the world’s only large-scale ensemble for professional, disabled musicians) and Chineke! (Europe’s first majority Black and minority ethnic (BME) orchestra) are working hard to shatter preconceptions about the talent and creativity of such musicians.

‘If even one BME child feels that their colour is getting in the way of their musical ambitions, I hope to inspire them, give a platform, and show them that music, of whatever kind, is for all people,’ says Chi-chi Nwanoku CBE, Chineke!’s founder.

As barriers to participation are slowly but surely removed, and more creativity is taken within the genre, it’s little wonder that more and more of us are falling hard for the charms of classical music, especially when you factor in its scientifically proven ability to help us relax – no small thing, in today’s frenetic world. With that in mind, these are the classical musicians you need to have on your radar.

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Young Br i tish classica l m usicia ns

JORDAN ASHMAN This talented percussionist may have only recently begun his studies at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, but he has become a definitive ‘one to watch’ after winning the BBC Young Musician 2022.

‘My parents, who are both musicians, didn’t have much hope for my musical future as I couldn’t sing at all,’ says Jordan, who is still exploring the many paths that are possible to him as a percussionist. ‘When I started to play piano and drums, though, they quickly realised you don’t have to be able to sing to be a musician.’

Jordan will be performing a concerto with the City of Birmingham Youth Symphony Orchestra, as well as in numerous concerts at Birmingham Conservatoire.

Visit cbso.co.uk for more information.

Ph oto : David Venn i

ISATA KANNEH-MASON A regular duo partner with her cellist brother, Sheku Kanneh-Mason, Isata grew up in Nottingham as the eldest of seven siblings – all of whom are musicians.

If the burden of leadership has been thrust upon her, though, she has taken to it phenomenally; Isata is the recipient of the coveted Leonard Bernstein Award, and the eclectic pianist is in great demand internationally as both a soloist and chamber musician.

Isata has a number of upcoming concerts this year – including her solo recital debut at NYC’s Carnegie Hall, and an exciting performance at London’s Wigmore Hall.

Find out more at isatakannehmason.com

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Young British classica l m usicia ns

NATALIA SENIOR-BROWN Natalia began playing the violin at six years old, and has since blossomed into an avid orchestral, session and chamber music player. She performs – both on violin and viola – with orchestras such as the Chineke! Orchestra, BBC Philharmonic and Ignition Orchestra in renowned venues such as the Royal Albert Hall and Royal Festival Hall, and has travelled across the world as far as China, Australia and the US in her career so far.

As well as her upcoming performances with Chineke!, it’s worth checking out The Contemporary Viola Sessions – a project and YouTube channel by Natalia – which she created with Olivia Cheung to celebrate viola repertoire from the 20th century to the present day.

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Young Br i tish classica l m usicia ns

ROB BURTON An emotional performer, classical saxophonist Rob considers storytelling one of the most important parts of being a musician. ‘I always read deeply into what the music is trying to express, and channel it as much as possible while performing,’ he says, admitting he knew he wanted to become a musician from the moment he first held a recorder at five years old. This potent combination of passion and talent – as well as the nurturing guidance of his teacher, Paul Stevens – has seen him win a number of prestigious awards.

Rob will be performing several concerts across Europe for the remainder of the year. Visit robburtonsax.co.uk for more information.

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Young British classica l m usicia ns

SHONA BEECHAM Shona, whose musical style is heavily influenced by her faith (‘church plays a huge part in my life,’ she says), is abundantly aware there’s more to honing her craft than the countless hours of physical practice she puts in: it’s largely down to mental practice, too. ‘I’ve spent so much time thinking about performances, pieces, or even projects to help me figure out the best way to achieve my goals,’ says the talented violinist.

Over the next 12 months, you can find Shona performing with the Chineke! Orchestra, as well as some solos and duets in multiple concerts and church services.

Follow @shonabeechamviolin on Instagram for more.

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Pho to : Ol iva da Costa

Young Br i tish classica l m usicia ns

ANNEMARIE FEDERLE A principal with the Aurora Orchestra and the London Philharmonic Orchestra, Annemarie has ‘started trying to make playing as little about the horn as possible’ in a bid to set herself apart from other musicians. ‘I am always trying to mimic other instruments or the human voice,’ adds the award-winning hornist, who is looking forward to playing concertos by Haydn, Mozart and Strauss over the next season.

You can find out more about Annemarie’s upcoming performances at lpo.org.uk and auroraorchestra.com

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Pho to : Abh ishe k Ko daganall ur Pichuma ni

Young British classica l m usicia ns

ANNA TULCHINSKAYA As someone who hails from a non-musical family, Anna’s life changed when she went to the Purcell School of Music and found herself surrounded by so many like-minded people.

She continues to be inspired by the chamber groups she works with now, including the United Strings of Europe, Sinfonia Cymru, Broen Ensemble, and Manchester Collective.

‘Their passion for the arts and energy in performance constantly gives me the drive to keep working on my own skills,’ says the violinist.

Over the next few months, Anna can be found playing in the Manchester Collective Different Trains Tour, the Sinfonia Cymru tour, and as first violin replacement for the Kyan Quartet on its tour through China.

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Re m e mbra nce Day

IN FLANDERS FIELDS

O n 11 N ove mb e r, we fall silent fo r two mi nutes to refle ct o n th os e w h o have falle n i n co nfli ct, defendi ng o ur co untr y.

H e re , we take a cl os e r lo ok at Rememb rance Day and th e o r ig i n s o f the annual Po p p y Ap p eal Words : Jordan D Jordan, De bo ra h Mills a nd André Mica lle f

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Rem e mbra nce Day

s the war in Ukraine continues, nearly two years after the start of the conflict, we reflect here on war, bravery – and peace.

This is particularly poignant at this time of year as we approach Remembrance Day on Saturday 11 November, marking the 105th anniversary of the signing of the armistice in 1918.

It is a time to remember those who have fallen in battle and to commemorate when World War I ended – at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. Remembrance Sunday follows the next day, offering a national opportunity to remember those who laid down their lives defending our freedoms and way of life, and to pay our deepest respects to the Armed Forces protecting Britain and the Commonwealth from conflict and terror during all wars.

On 4 August 1914, the German army invaded Belgium and marched towards eastern France, a move that was stopped by the Allied victory at the Battle of the Marne in September 1914, when the so-called Race to the Sea began. After four gruesome years of conflict, an armistice was signed in a railway carriage near the French town of Compiègne in November 1918, and World War I finally came to an end.

In 1919, after a suggestion from a politician, King George V decided the nation would hold a two-minute silence on Armistice Day. A year later, on the same day that the permanent Cenotaph was unveiled in Whitehall, the Unknown Warrior

was buried in Westminster Abbey to honour ordinary service personnel who had died.

After World War II, Armistice Day became known as Remembrance Day. Today, Remembrance Day is widely observed, but – like war memorials themselves – the nature of the commemoration, and attitudes towards them, have changed over the years.

After the initial jubilation at the signing of the armistice in 1918, the first and second anniversaries of the end of World War I had a solemn, rather than victorious, atmosphere, focusing on mourning the dead rather than celebrating victory.

This period, into the early 1920s, was also when most of the memorials that commemorate World War I were erected, as thousands of communities paid tribute to their fallen.

As the 1920s continued, however, other aspects of Armistice Day, as it was then known, emerged. In 1921, some ex-servicemen, angry at the lack of opportunity and support they had received since returning home – and disagreeing with the continued concentration on the dead when survivors felt forgotten – disrupted the service at the Cenotaph, an act repeated throughout the decade.

At the same time, some young people began holding celebrations on 11 November to mark the fact that the war was over and they could have fun again, although this had declined in favour of more sombre events by the mid-1920s. 〉

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Re m e mbra nce Day During World War II, commemorations declined as the focus switched from remembering the previous war to fighting the current one. After peace was declared in 1945, the fallen of both World Wars were remembered during services held on the Sunday closest to 11 November.

Marking the day during church services on a Sunday meant that it was not such a part of everyday life as it had been when normal activities were suspended at 11 o’clock on whichever day the 11th November fell.

People had to make more of an effort to participate and, as a result, interest in marking Remembrance Day declined in the post-World War II years, as the conflicts became more distant in time.

However, there was a resurgence of interest in World War I at end of the 20th century. This, and the UK’s involvement in more recent conflicts, brought the subject sharply back into focus, and contributed to Remembrance Day having a higher profile once more.

The inclusion of the two World Wars on the National Curriculum in British schools also meant greater awareness among a new generation.

In the 1990s, the two-minute silence began to be held on 11 November again, regardless of whether it was a Sunday, and remembrance became a more integral part of life on that day once more. Often, young people take part in these services, with groups such as the Scouts, Boys’ Brigade and Cadets, plus pupils representing their schools, participating in parades.

THE POPPY APPEAL

During November, we have the Poppy Appeal, managed by the Royal British Legion, to raise funds. For more than 100 years, the poppy has been adopted as a symbol of remembrance to recognise those who have given their lives to defend their homeland. The tradition of wearing a poppy to symbolise remembrance began in 1920 and was inspired by the poem In Flanders Fields, written by John McCrae (see opposite).

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Shortly after losing a close friend in the battles over Ypres in 1915, Lieutenant Colonel McRae, a Canadian doctor and surgeon, was inspired to write the poem by the sight of poppies growing in abundance on the battle-scarred landscape of the Western Front in Belgium and France.

Rem e mbra nce Day The poppies referenced in the opening lines of McRae’s poem came to symbolise remembering those who had died during the war, and the custom of wearing one became widespread.

McRae’s friend was just one of more than a million soldiers from 50 countries who were wounded, killed or went missing in action around Ypres, with entire towns and villages destroyed.

Today, the peaceful region still bears witness to this history, with cemeteries, such as the largest Commonwealth cemetery in the world, the Tyne Cot Memorial and Cemetery, and museums where we can reflect and pay our respects.

Remembrance of World War I will always live on in Flanders, at places such as the Menin Gate, where the Last Post sounds every evening.

REMEMBRANCE DAY IN MALTA

During the early part of World War II, amid the siege of Malta by Italy and Germany, King George VI awarded the island of Malta the George Cross as testament to the heroism and dedication of its people. The George Cross, a significant symbol of valour, was incorporated into the flag of Malta in 1943 and remains a prominent part of the current flag design.

Remembrance Day in Malta is observed on the Sunday closest to 11 November. This solemn occasion pays tribute to the fallen soldiers who courageously defended their homeland during both World Wars. The day’s events typically involve government officials, war veterans and the Armed Forces of Malta in a commemorative ceremony.

The commemoration begins with a Pontifical Mass at the St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta, presided over by the Bishop of Malta. Following the Mass, a procession makes its way from the Floriana Granaries to the National War Memorial.

At this poignant location, various dignitaries, including the president of Malta, the prime minister, the speaker of representatives, and members of the diplomatic corps,

join former servicemen in laying poppy wreaths as a symbol of remembrance.

A moment of silence follows, during which poppies are ceremoniously scattered on the monument by a low-flying military aircraft. Similar commemorative events take place on the neighbouring island of Gozo, at the War Memorial in Victoria. ​ NEVER SURRENDER

Woodrow Wilson’s famous quote about World War I being ‘a war to end all wars’ sadly did not prove true and we face even more technologically sophisticated battles today. But as our arguably greatest Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, once said we shall ‘never surrender’ to tyranny and oppression.

To learn more about the work of the Royal British Legion and donate to the Poppy Appeal, visit britishlegion.co.uk

In Flanders Fields

By John McCrae

In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie, In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high.

If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields.

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Annabel's nightclub Burlington Arcade

Ill ustrati on by : Pe ter Davies

Wellington Arch

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The Royal Academy

The Italian Gardens, Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens Buckingham Palace

I

t is no coincidence that Mayfair is the most expensive property on a British Monopoly board. In terms of both prestige and geography, the area is right at the heart of London, and has long been the destination for the very best in culture, entertainment, retail and fine dining.

Mayfair was the ideal district for the Burlingtons Group to make its home, as well as being a destination for residents and visitors alike. The affluent area is bordered by Hyde Park on its western edge and the City of Westminster to the east, offering access to both verdant parkland and the beating

heart of Britain’s seat of power. The familiar names of Oxford Street, Regent Street, Piccadilly and Park Lane form its borders, enclosing an area that boasts cultural highlights including the Royal Academy of Arts; luxury hotels, such as Claridge’s, The Ritz and The Dorchester; renowned auction houses Christie’s and Sotheby’s; the famed Savile Row, home of traditional bespoke tailoring; and Burlington Arcade.

A stroll around the area is also the best way to soak up the stunning architecture of one of the most prestigious districts of London.

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I n ve sting in whisk y

WHISKY BUSINESS Want an investment that raises the spirits? Here’s how buying whisky can make you money Wo rds: Pete r Tay lor-W hiffen

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I nve sting in whisk y

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inston Churchill called it ‘the elixir of life that puts a song in the heart’.

George Bernard Shaw hailed it as ‘liquid sunshine’. Mark Twain said ‘too much of it is barely enough’. All three clearly placed great store in the value of a particular commodity – whisky.

Today it’s not just seen as a warming spirit whose intake ‘puts a warm glow of contentment in your eyes’ (Churchill again) – but one that can make you money, too. Over recent years, whisky has become a fascinating and lucrative interest for those looking to invest in something a little different.

A GROWING RETURN

‘Whisky has brought many investors great returns,’ says Oliver Court, of specialist investment company London Cask Traders. ‘It is capital gains tax free and it’s classed as a “safe haven” asset, meaning it doesn’t correlate with the UK economy as it is a globally traded commodity.’

Those returns have increased Oliver Court exponentially over recent years.

Investment in whisky as an asset, rather than merely something to drink, only became a ‘thing’ around 30 years ago, when auction house Christie’s began receiving so many customer requests for valuations that, in December 1989, it held the first-ever whisky auction.

‘At that time, Scotch was expanding,’ says Martin Green, who oversaw that first sale and is now head of whisky at Graham Budd Auctions. ‘More products were being brought to market, which made it accessible for lots of people with different depths of pocket. Then, over time, those people realised that if they bought a Martin Green bottle of, say, Black Bull malt for £100 in the 1990s, 10 years later that had gone up to about £5,000. The industry watched this development with interest and began to release more exclusive products.’

Whisky attracts more investors than other alcohol because of the way it is made – unlike, say, gin, the longer it matures in an oak barrel, the greater the flavour and therefore the more valuable it becomes, says Court. ‘Also, unlike wine which is produced all around the world, Scotch whisky is only produced in Scotland, making it much rarer.’

THE WHISKY THAT MADE A MILLION

Since the turn of the century, whisky has become so desirable – prices have boomed more than 500 per cent even in just the

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past decade – that the rarest bottles now attract seven-figure sums. The most expensive, a Macallan 1926 60-Year-Old Fine And Rare, went to auction in October 2019 with a guide price of £400,000 – and sold for more than £1.4m.

Few of us will get the opportunity to buy such an exclusive tipple – but that sale does indicate what gives whisky its value, and what potential investors should be looking for.

‘Rarity and age are what makes one whisky worth more than another,’ says Green. ‘The most valuable are all premier brands – such as Bowmore, Dalmore, Macallan. The highest prices are commanded by bottles of which there were only very few released.’

Court, whose company, as its name suggests, sells casks, agrees. ‘The main factors that will determine the value of a cask are brand recognition, age, cask type and size,’ he says.

‘Obviously a cask from a distillery such as Macallan would be worth a huge amount more than a cask from a start-up distillery with no provenance. The distillery is always the most interesting factor, because there’s always a story behind that distillery and each produces their spirit in a different way, which gives it a different flavour profile.’

A VAT OF VALUE

The intrinsic value of the whisky itself is dependent on its alcoholic concentration.

The higher that percentage – most are bottled at 60-75 per cent – the fewer bottles a batch of grains can produce, and therefore the more expensive each bottle. This is despite the fact – particularly in the case of more expensive bottles – that vendors and buyers might never open and taste it.

‘The top distilleries obviously have reputations based on quality,’ says Green, ‘and if a whisky is bottled after many years of maturing, it’s an indicator of its quality that after all that time it was still good enough to bottle and drink, which adds to its value. As for the taste, many people do want to experience that. Not everyone who invests in whisky is a whisky drinker, but among those who are, we often see people buying two bottles – one to keep and the other to drink.’

But as with any objective investment, personal taste in whisky should be the least important factor in deciding what to buy, says Court. ‘I don’t think investors should care about picking a cask from a distillery they like the whisky from; everybody has a different palette and I think they should consider the more important factors instead, such as brand recognition, age and pricing.’

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I n vesting I n ve sting in English in whiskwine y

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I n ve sting in whisk y

In any market, supply and demand dictates price and the price of a whisky is determined by its rarity. Some distilleries release only a very few from a particular cask every decade or so, giving them an immediate high value. Other factors add to that rarity, too. In the case of the 1926, not only was just one cask ever made, but when it was bottled in 1986, Macallan commissioned British artist Peter Blake, who had created the Beatles’ Sgt Pepper cover, and Italian painter Valerio Adami, each to design a label that would adorn just 12 bottles; they have been hugely sought-after ever since.

CHOOSING YOUR STOCK

Collectable whisky doesn’t have to cost seven figures – the right bottle bought for a couple of hundred pounds can accumulate value. But how do you find the right investment for you? Where do you start?

There are many whisky websites offering general guidance such as scotchwhisky.com, whiskyadvocate.com, or thespiritsbusiness.com that will get you started. ‘Of course, it depends on your budget,’ says Green, ‘but the most important thing before you begin is to know what you want to buy. Look at the major distilleries, view their collections and get on their mailing lists so you are aware ahead of the game of any new releases. Some go on sale at £10,000 but there are many available for £200-300. At the premier distilleries, these always sell very quickly and therefore become immediately desirable and more valuable. The market will dictate how much it costs but particularly if it’s a “low release” the chances are it will go up in value.

‘For price guides, there are many sources where you can look at auction results to see what price particular brands are fetching and how those prices have changed over time.’

But always, he says, buy from the direct source. ‘Fakes are rare, mainly because for lower-value bottles it’s not worth forgers going to all that effort, and the very high value whiskies are documented and numbered at the distillery so it can be traced back to the source. But buying either direct from the distillery or a very reputable retailer, and making sure you keep the receipt, will ensure there’s no issue with authenticity.’

But like the product itself, your investment will likely take time to mature. ‘How quickly it appreciates depends on how sought-after the cask is,’ says Court, ‘but it’s better to have cask whisky for a medium to long-term hold.’

Green echoes this. ‘Be prepared to treat it as a long-term investment and don’t expect to make money immediately.

Ultimately whisky, like anything else, is worth only what someone is prepared to pay for it at any given time. You have to remember it’s a speculative investment – although remember, too, you can always drink it!’

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MORE THAN GOLD Whisky value grew faster than gold last year. Here are the distilleries whose products achieved the greatest returns: LAPHROAIG

This distillery on the isle of Islay is best known for its single malt with a smoky flavour. In 2022, its casks increased in value by 18.75 per cent, making it the highestperforming whisky in the world last year. laphroaig.com

CAOL ILA

Also on Islay, the ‘cask edit’ from this distillery has traditionally been used as a blend in cocktails and notably in Johnnie Walker’s Black Label, but is becoming established as a single malt in its own right. Its value has grown 15 per cent since 2020. malts.com/en-gb/distilleries/caol-ila

MACALLAN

The headline-making distillery has been in Speyside for nearly 200 years, notable for maturing its whisky mainly in sherry casks. Anyone fortunate to find a rare opportunity to invest in a cask can expect to make 20 per cent a year. themacallan.com

BUNNAHABHAIN

The most remote of Islay’s distilleries, at the end of a single-track road, its unpeated whisky was one of the fastest-growing values in 2022, returning 17.57 per cent. bunnahabhain.com

HIGHLAND PARK

This Orkney distillery, based in Kirkwall, once held the distinction of Scotland’s northernmost whisky producer. It has just commemorated its 225th anniversary by issuing 225 bottles of a 54-year-old single malt scotch, priced on release at £39,000. highlandparkwhisky.com

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Burling to ns lega l

A CAREER OF TWO HALVES T h e re is a n e w p laye r i n Burli ng ton s’ star ti ng l i n e - up – Davi d Wi n n i e , who bri ngs a wealth o f exp e r i e n ce to his posi ti on as p ar tn e r an d h ead o f sp or ts at Burli ng ton s Words: Amy Be nne tt

W

hen it comes to seeking expert legal advice in the sporting arena, what better person to turn to than someone who can draw on decades of experience in the law and on professional sporting achievement?

Enter the latest signing to the Burlingtons team: David Winnie, a celebrated professional footballer in his younger days, who has spent nearly 15 years building an outstanding reputation in his second career, specialising in sports law.

‘Although we use the term “sports law”, it is of course the law in relation to sport,’ Winnie notes. ‘After all, a sporting organisation is just like any other commercial or corporate entity in that the law is the law, and applies equally to both.’

With 14 years’ experience of practising in this sector, Winnie has acted for clients in cases before the Football Association’s (FA’s) Rule K Arbitration, FIFA’s Football Tribunal in Zurich, and the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne. He is also chair of the FA’s Judicial Panel, and is a panel member on the Scottish FA’s Judicial Panel, so is well placed to offer expert advice to Burlingtons’ clients.

As well as working on sports-specific legalities, Winnie’s credentials mean he can also bring his expertise to bear on a wide range of issues outside of the sphere of professional sport.

‘The scope and complexity of legal services, both contentious and non-contentious, required by individual athletes, organisations and governing bodies is increasing rapidly. Law firms need to be aware of this and, more importantly, be able to service these requirements.

There is a full suite of legal work that I bring to Burlingtons,’ he explains. ‘This involves immigration services, employment issues, corporate and commercial matters for individuals and corporate clients. Furthermore, dispute resolution, data protection, investment and tax-related advice for high-networth individuals, as well as advice and assistance on media and entertainment issues, among others.’

Winnie’s work in the sporting sector focuses predominantly on football, as well as rugby and cricket, and sees him act for athletes, clubs and governing bodies. The work in this field falls into two areas – contentious and non-contentious.

‘Contentious matters for individuals and organisations range from regulatory issues through to breach of contract,’

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Winnie explains. ‘Recently, I had a high-profile case that went before FIFA’s Football Tribunal court in Switzerland, involving a coach employed by a national association who had his contract of employment terminated. The national association in question tried to use a force majeure clause in the coach’s contract as the reason for termination. I won the case, arguing that the contract had been terminated unlawfully and, under FIFA’s regulations, without just cause.

EXPERT INSIGHT

‘Non-contentious matters include a whole raft of issues, such as commercial agreements, sponsorship, image rights, and corporate – restructuring and/or buying and selling of clubs.

‘I deal with immigration matters too. In a sporting context, this would involve ensuring that an athlete complies with the immigration rules when looking to obtain a visa to enter the UK and, more importantly, is also able to obtain a governing body endorsement from the relevant sporting institution (ie the FA) to allow him or her to participate in that sport.

I also advise and assist organisations with obtaining a sponsor licence when looking to employ a skilled worker from outside the UK. ‘The need for expert legal advice in sport is crucial, as athletes and other major stakeholders are looking for very specific advice at times.

‘Football players are more aware now of their commercial value, particularly elite players. As such, they need trusted legal advisers, who can provide expert advice tailored to their specific needs. Moreover, professional football, in particular, is truly a global industry, generating eye-watering sums of money each year for those involved at the sharp end. Accordingly, legal service providers need to be expert, sometimes inventive, and be able to assist across various jurisdictions to meet their clients’ demands.’

In a commercial and financial sense, the young players of today are a far cry from what Winnie experienced during his own long career in sport.

A GLOBAL PLAYER

His professional footballing career began at 17, when he made his debut for his local team, St Mirren, and he was part of the line-up that secured the Scottish Cup Final in 1987. Having also played for Aberdeen, Dundee and Hearts, he was loaned to Middlesbrough from Aberdeen, but serious injury prevented him from securing a permanent deal with the English side and he had to return north, to Aberdeen, once more.

In 1998, he made the move to Iceland to play for KR Reykjavík, a team he admits to knowing nothing about upon arrival, but which included such talent as Eidur Gudjohnsen, who would go on to play for Chelsea and Barcelona.

The transfer may have been a leap in the dark, but it proved serendipitous – not only did KR Reykjavík win that season’s Icelandic Premier League Cup for the first time in 30 years, but Winnie also met his future wife while playing there. That successful season was followed by a brief, but enjoyable, spell in warmer climes, playing on loan for Canberra Cosmos in Australia’s NSL. Back in Iceland, Winnie served as coach and then manager of KR, saving them from relegation. Returning to Scotland as a

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coach, he went on to manage Dumbarton, and was a youth coach at Glasgow Rangers, but found his heart was no longer in it.

Unlike many youth players, Winnie had achieved academic success before taking up the sport professionally and was more than qualified to attend university. Having browsed the prospectus of the University of Paisley, his local seat of higher learning, Winnie settled on law for his course of study.

Emerging from the four-year degree with a First, he made the decision to head south of the border, a move that required him to undertake more study to complete a oneyear conversion course for English law. With that under his belt, Winnie took up a training contract with a law firm in St Albans, but the financial crash of 2008 led to an early termination of all four trainees at the firm.

‘That acted as a good push factor for me, because I had to ask myself “what do I really want to do after I am qualified?”’ he explains. ‘I started to realise that I didn’t need to throw

“The scope and complexity of legal services, both contentious and noncontentious, required by individual athletes, organisations and governing bodies is increasing rapidly” away all of the contacts I had made in football, and in sport generally, throughout the years. At that time, sport – in particular football – was really starting to emerge as a standalone legal concept and I thought that this could be a good opportunity for me to combine my newly acquired legal training and knowledge with my sporting experience.’

Winnie dived straight into the deep end and secured a position with London-based Squire Patton Biggs, a major player in the legal sports sector. In the years since, he has worked for several of the key players in this sector, accruing valuable experience and heading up the sports teams at several City law firms, before making the move to Burlingtons this summer.

Among the most significant cases he has been involved in within football was when he successfully represented a client before FIFA’s Football Tribunal. This case set a precedent in world football in its restatement and application of FIFA’s policy in respect of Covid-19, and the interaction of that policy with force majeure provisions in football contracts.

Of his signing to the Premier League at Burlingtons, Winnie says: ‘I’m really pleased and excited to be joining an international law firm. They are ideally placed to be able to service clients in the sports sector and I’m really looking forward to taking things forward.

‘The firm has opened the door into the sports side of law, and I believe this will benefit many areas of the firm, be it employment, commercial or private clients. It opens a door for Burlingtons to get involved in contentious and non-contentious sports-related legal matters across the whole breadth of services that we offer.’

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David Winnie in action for Aberdeen

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Kashke Kashkett && Pa Parrtne tners rs

C R AFTING P R EC ISION: THE ART OF THE MILITARY TAILOR

T h e daz zl ing d isp lay o f p arade uni forms at th e Coronati o n o f Ki ng Char le s I I I in May owe d much to th e skill and d e d i cati on o f Kashke t & Par tn e rs , manufacturers of ceremonial uni fo rms fo r th e m il i tar y an d Ro y al Family, as well as uni forms for the U K arme d s er vi ces Wo rds: Ja me s Richa rds

Among the most impressive uniforms produced for the King’s Coronation were the Drum Major’s tunics, which require 50 yards of gold ribbon and take the Kashket master tailors more than 100 hours of intense labour to produce

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Ph oto graph : Alamy

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ew companies can claim to have contributed to the iconic image of Britain.

But Kashket & Partners, manufacturers of ceremonial and parade uniforms for the military and Royal Family, might just have that honour.

From its workshops in London, Birmingham, Leeds and Surrey, Kashket produces uniforms for the entire armed services of the UK, including the country’s most distinctive units – the Yeomen Warders of the Tower of London (commonly known as ‘Beefeaters’), the Royal Horse Artillery, the Household Cavalry, and all five regiments of Foot Guards.

For Nathan Kashket, operations director, the fact that these uniforms are instantly recognisable all over the world is a source of enormous pride.

‘It always feels special to fly back into London and see the billboards of the Guardsmen and Beefeaters in the arrival hall, because I know we made those clothes.’

HATMAKER TO THE EMPEROR

Nathan is the fourth generation of Kashkets to work in the company and, at 25, he represents the young, fresh face of a business steeped in

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Above: Nathan Kashket is the fourth generation of his family to work in the company Left: Firmin & Sons has supplied military buttons, badges and medals to every Royal Household since 1649

tradition and heritage. The Kashket story starts in Imperial Russia with Alfred Kashket’s grandfather, who was a milliner for Tsar Nicholas II. In the late-19th century, Alfred was forced to flee Russia and set up business in London. After working as a Savile Row tailor, he became involved in making military uniforms and, over the following decades, the Kashket name became inseparable from military attire.

Russell Kashket, current chairman, relishes telling the family’s stories. ‘Alfred, my grandfather, was a superb tailor but a terrible businessman,’ he says. ‘After receiving payment for a job, he would

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immediately use the money to take his client out for lunch.’

How times have changed. After Russell took over the business from his father (Bernard Kashket, MBE, who, at 87, still comes into the London workshop every Friday), he spearheaded the acquisition of several of Kashket’s key suppliers, bringing them under the umbrella of the Kashket Group of companies.

‘We wanted to secure our business for the next generation,’ says Russell. ‘If we own our suppliers, we know we can fulfil our contracts.’

FIRMIN & SONS

One of those acquisitions was Firmin & Sons, the oldest manufacturing company in Europe, founded in 1655. Firmin has its own remarkable history, and has supplied military buttons, badges and medals to the British Army and every Royal Household since Charles II, who ruled from 1649-85.

‘At one time or another, we’ve done business with every country in the world,’ says Nathan. ‘Over the centuries, we’ve supplied clothing to armed forces on almost every continent.

Therefore, we’ve been present at many pivotal moments in world history, from the Battle of Waterloo to modern Afghanistan.’

A uniform made by Firmin and worn by Admiral Lord Nelson can still be seen at the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich. In fact, according to Nathan, Firmin buttons were worn by both sides in the American Civil War during the Battle of Gettysburg. Also, incredibly, officers aboard the Titanic wore Firmin buttons on their uniforms.

Firmin has produced around 48,000 unique designs over its history, and boasts the most extensive collection of medal, badge and button dies in the world. Every stage of manufacture – from design, to the cutting of the die, to the hand-finishing – is done in-house by a team of craftsmen and craftswomen.

Today, the entire Kashket operation employs 30 clothcutters, 120 tailors and 15 apprentices who work alongside

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Ab0ve: The company’s vice-chair Cheryl Kashket members of the family. Among the workforce is one of the two remaining full-time traditional armourers in the country, who has been with the company for more than 50 years. He still uses a ‘blacksmith’s elm’, which dates from the earliest days of Firmin in the 1650s.

FIT FOR A KING: THE CORONATION

Perhaps the most high-profile event in the company’s recent history was its contract to provide uniforms and regalia for the Coronation of King Charles III in May. Even for a company used to producing vast quantities of clothing of the highest possible standard, this enormous undertaking required every piece of the Kashket operation to work together seamlessly.

To chronicle this historic challenge, the family invited the cameras of the BBC into the workshop, which resulted in the programme Coronation Tailors: Fit for a King.

‘We had about eight months to produce 6,000 uniforms for the military men and women involved in the ceremony,’ says Nathan. ‘During this period, our staff were routinely arriving at 6am and staying late into the night. We worked right up until the evening before, doing the final adjustments.’

Among the most impressive uniforms produced for this historic ceremony were the Drum Major’s tunics, which require 50 yards of gold ribbon and take the Kashket master tailors more than 100 hours of intense labour to produce.

The company was also required to adjust hundreds of uniforms to carry the new royal cypher, chosen personally

by King Charles III. This is just one example of the close-knit

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relationship the company enjoys with royalty.

For example, the frock coat worn by Prince William for his wedding ceremony in 2011 was made by Kashket. And although Nathan avoids being specific, he confirms that certain items were made for the Royal Family for the coronation this year.

LASTING MILITARY CONNECTION

Despite this illustrious royal connection – the company also works with nine of the world’s other royal families – perhaps the closest relationship that the Kashket business enjoys is with the armed services.

‘Our deep respect for the military is woven through everything we do as a company,’ says Nathan. ‘For example, we have a tailor posted at every barracks in the country.

Also, at the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst, we have a standalone business that caters for all the uniform needs of the officer cadets.’

Each officer uniform must pass a stringent 40-point quality checklist, designed to meet the exacting standards of the British Army. ‘Put simply, our tailoring has to be the best in the world, our standards as close to perfection as humanly possible,’ says Nathan.

BREASTPLATES TO BULLET-PROOF VESTS

Nathan is proud to be bringing a new, tech-savvy approach to a business that is evolving in step with the needs of international customers. For example, Kashket Tactical Group produces ballistic protection armour for VIPs and military personnel, a responsibility the family takes extremely seriously.

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‘In terms of stopping power, this is the lightest body armour in the world,’ he says. ‘These jackets integrate our expertise in weight and heat management to ensure the user can comfortably wear this protection for long periods of time.’

Remarkably, Kashket even produces body armour that allows the wearer to float when immersed in water.

For the office warriors among us, the company also offers bespoke tailoring – honouring the Savile Row tradition of its founder, Alfred – as well as a huge range of accoutrements and metalwork available to the public through its E C Snaith operation.

LIVING AND BREATHING HERITAGE

While the company has lasted through some of the most

tumultuous periods in world history, the Kashket family retains a clear mission.

‘Our job is to protect the heritage of the military customers and royal families we serve, keeping their extraordinary histories thriving in the present day,’ says Nathan. ‘We expect to be doing this important job for another 300 years at least.’

So, next time you’re walking through Westminster and see one of those distinctive red coats, or catch the gleam of a ceremonial helmet, remember that a team of craftsmen and craftswomen is hard at work somewhere – measuring, cutting, stitching and polishing – to keep Britain’s national image pristine, with all its glorious pomp and pageantry.

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Real e state

M A YF A IR UNV EI LED Alth o ug h th e e co n o m ic tre m o rs o f 2 023 have lef t thei r ma rk , May fair ’ s re sp o n s e to thes e p ressures s ets i t a pa r t fro m th e re st o f th e U K . Learn more about the re sili e nce a n d all ure o f Lo n d o n’s real estate crow n jewel

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Words : H enr y Mills s you stroll along the elegant streets of Mayfair, lined with Georgian townhouses and exclusive boutiques, it is nearly impossible to imagine that this London neighbourhood is anything but a stable fortress of affluence. To a passing visitor, the London enclave seems untouched by the tides of time or economy.

MAYFAIR’S RISE

A deeply rooted part of London’s history, Mayfair has experienced a phenomenal transformation from an agricultural hinterland in the 1600s, to a beacon of luxury in the 2000s. It was named after the annual May Fair that took place on the site, with the area gradually developing into a sought-after residential area by the 18th century.

With its exclusivity and proximity to the heart of London, aristocratic families began to settle here and build their homes in the area. As its rich tapestry grew and became intertwined with the tales of royalty, artists and the global elite in the 19th and 20th centuries, it became known as a haven of luxury and sophistication.

While areas such as Beverly Hills, in Los Angeles, and the Upper East Side of New York are well regarded and have demonstrated their own resilience in times of economic hardship, Mayfair stands out as a unique and special place to live.

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Rea l esta te

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Rea l e sta te It is not just Mayfair’s resilience that distinguishes it from its competitors, but also its robust growth and style. It is this rare juxtaposition that highlights Mayfair’s unparalleled appeal on the global stage.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

There has been an increase in geopolitical tensions over the past couple of years, and the UK economy is experiencing higher rates of inflation. This reached 11 per cent in Q4 2022 and is currently at 7.4 per cent, with higher interest rates reaching up to 5.25 per cent in 2023.

As a consequence of the economic downturn that has set in, the real-estate market is reeling, and all types of businesses have been forced to cut costs and downsize. As a result of a decrease in consumer spending, the housing sector has seen a sharp decline. Even the Bank of England finds itself in a conundrum, juggling monetary policies to ease inflation while cautiously trying to avoid a further economic slowdown.

THE GOLDEN EXCEPTION

The UK housing market has been navigating rough waters, as evidenced by the 28 per cent decline in loans for firsttime buyers in Q2 2023, because of rising mortgage rates and market volatility. Against this backdrop, however, Mayfair stands out as a striking exception.

Data from LonRes reveals that, within a two-month period, 15 homes in Mayfair sold for more than £5m each.

So, what makes Mayfair able to buck this trend?

The area continues to be an enclave of wealth and prestige, a haven for the ultra-rich. The area boasts a low crime rate and excellent transport links. This makes it an attractive option for those looking to invest in high-end properties within the residential, hotel and office sectors.

Indeed, continued growth can be observed through property developments worth more than £840m planned over the next 5-15 years.

Mayfair has also benefited from long-term investment in infrastructure, such as the Crossrail project, which has improved transportation to and from the area.

This is likely to bring even more investment in future, ensuring that it remains a desirable and affluent area in the coming years. It is no surprise, therefore, that Mayfair remains an oasis among the financial turbulence of the UK housing market.

QUALITY REIGNS SUPREME

Passing trends often dictate market dynamics, but Mayfair’s strength can largely be attributed to its unwavering commitment to quality in an era of transient fashions.

Assets that prioritise quality seem to float above the fray, even when other markets oscillate with economic shifts.

The equation for discerning buyers, particularly those with deep pockets, is simple: premium properties in enviable locales, such as Mayfair, are not just purchases; they are long-term investments.

There is no doubt that these assets will withstand market volatility, but they are also poised to appreciate over time and offer symbolic and tangible returns to their owners.

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Rea l esta te The Royal Arcade, Old Bond Street, Mayfair

“It is n ot just Mayfa ir’s re silie nce tha t disting uishes it from its compe titors, but a lso its robust growth a n d style . It is this ra re jux ta position tha t hig hlig hts Mayfa ir’s un pa ra lle le d a ppea l” THE INVESTOR’S OPPORTUNITY

Although the overall UK market has been hit by lower investment volumes, forecasts suggest a brighter future.

According to predictions, total returns are expected to grow by 8.5 per cent over the next five years. In light of the broader market challenges, it is possible that shrewd investors will find opportunities to take advantage of these positive projections and Mayfair’s stellar sales record in the luxury enclave.

WHAT LIES AHEAD?

As the dust begins to settle, the UK’s economic forecast appears to be one of cautious optimism. Expert consensus suggests that, while some of the effects of the economic downturn will linger, a robust recovery is expected in the future.

From 2024, the expectation is for a rejuvenated economy, as inflation and interest rates stabilise, breathing life back into various sectors. It is likely that this prospective economic upswing will further strengthen the reputation of an enclave such as Mayfair. It is a living sanctuary in the midst of the real estate industry, with its dual pillars of quality and a prime location that protect it against erratic swings of the broader economy.

Overall, Mayfair stands out as one of the most stunning examples of how quality real estate can endure in the face of broader economic turmoil. In a game where the rules are constantly changing, Mayfair seems less of a gamble and more of a strategic move for those looking for long-term value and with the resources to invest.

If you are looking to invest within Mayfair, contact Henry Mills at henry.mills@burlingtons.realestate for all your investment sourcing requirements.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Henry Mills specialises in commercial acquisitions across the UK, focusing on the hotel, office, and industrial sectors. Based in London, he offers dynamic forecast modelling, sourcing, and strategic negotiation to provide clients with insights and opportunities.

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Fe ncing

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Fe ncing

Wi th i ts ro o ts i n m ili ta r y h istor y a nd th e d ue ls of th e p ast , fen ci ng o ffe rs the pe r fe c t b le n d of fast- p a ce d a c ti on, p re cisi on , skill a n d stra teg y. Allez! 〉

Words: Amy Be nne tt burlingtons

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SABRE

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hat sport more perfectly blends the historical with the modern, than fencing? The flash of lights and electronic bleeps as a weapon registers a touch on an opponent in elite competition and the dazzling white garb, mix seamlessly with terms from a time long gone – parry, riposte, en garde – in a fast-paced, thrilling sport.

Fencing requires not only skill, but also lightning-fast reflexes; it is said that the tip of the fencing weapon is the second-fastest moving object in sport, behind only the marksman’s bullet.

That speed is the name of the game is illustrated by a favourite trick of 19th century fencing master Justin Lafaugère – holding a coin against a wall with the tip of his foil, Lafaugère would withdraw his arm and then re-pin the coin to the wall before it had time to drop.

Competition offers intense bursts of action; bouts are restricted to nine minutes, broken into three, three-minute bouts with a one-minute break in between. And while many sports rely solely on strength, fencing is as much an exercise

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for the mind as the body. It also still retains some courtly rules for duels – opponents must bow to each other at the start and end of a match, with their masks off.

With its roots firmly in military training, the evolution of fencing as a sport can be traced to the establishment of a fencing academy by fencing master Domenico Angelo, who opened Angelo’s School of Arms at Carlisle House in Soho, London, in 1763. It was Angelo who established some of the rules of posture and footwork that are still followed today.

WEAPON OF CHOICE

Fencing is made up of several bouts fought between opponents on a piste, a strip of metallic mesh measuring 14m long by 1.5m wide, inside the salle d’armes (fencing hall).

Three different blades can be used in fencing, each tracing its roots to those long-gone days of hand-to-hand combat.

The foil is the lightest weapon, at a maximum of 500g. In foil competitions, touches are scored only with the tip of the blade and can only be made on the body, between the waist and neck.

Like the foil, the épée is a thrusting weapon, weighing a

FOIL

ÉPÉE

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maximum of 775g and the whole body of an opponent is a valid target. Touches must be made with the tip of the blade, not the sides.

The sabre is a cutting and thrusting weapon, also weighing in at 500g. A sabre’s target is always above the hips, echoing the sport’s military past, when it was deeded unchivalrous to injure an opponent’s horse.

The foil was introduced in the mid-17th century to replace the more cumbersome rapier carried by many at the time.

Light and flexible, the blade could be used with much greater precision, and the teaching of foil fencing soon became a vital component in the education of any well-bred young man.

Indeed, when the Public Schools’ Fencing Championship was founded in 1890, the future Sir Winston Churchill was among the first winners, taking the title in 1892.

Rules restricted the target to the area between the neck and waist and established ‘right of way’, meaning an attacker’s blade had to be parried (blocked) before the defender could respond with an attack (riposte). The introduction in the mid-18th century of a wire mask for combatants changed this approach to the instant parry/riposte used today.

Use of an épée in fencing was introduced in France during the 1860s as something of a backlash against the foil, with combatants believing it recreated the conditions of a swordsman’s duel – but with much fewer fatal consequences.

The whole body became a target and the electrification of the weapon in the 1930s meant that speed became ever more important as combatants attempted to hit their opponent before being hit themselves.

The sabre is the final weapon in fencing, deriving from military swordsmanship. What began as a cumbersome weapon used in battle has developed into a lightweight blade that can be wielded with the speed and precision of a foil.

KNOW THE SCORE

Scoring was long a fraught subject in fencing. With traditional hand-to-hand combat, there was a clear winner and loser, easily identified by wounds inflicted – or who was left standing. As the sport of fencing evolved from the battlefield into more gentlemanly realms, the rules of combat and scoring had to grow and develop as well.

As with any sport of gentlemen, for many years, honour

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played a large part in naming the victor. A shout of ‘touché’ was enough to self-acknowledge a hit on an opponent, while judges watched on from the sidelines, trying to discern whose hit had landed or who had thrust first. This was no easy task, given the razor-thin blade and the speed of movement.

So how to make the sport easier to score? By electrifying it.

If you have watched a match, you will have seen a light flash, indicating where a touch has landed, accompanied by an audible tone.

While the electronic equipment required varies depending on the weapon used, at its most basic, it consists of a body cord, attached to the weapon, and running inside the jacket sleeve, down the back and out to the scoring box.

Electric scoring apparatus was first used competitively by fencers battling with épées at the Olympic Games of 1936 in Berlin. As the épée can be used to target any area of the body, this early electronic sensor did not have to be particularly sophisticated to register a hit. The more complicated rules governing combat with foils and sabres meant that the foil

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events at the world championships in 1955 were the first to be electrified, with the sabre the last to the party in 1988. The 1992 Olympics in Barcelona marked the first time that electric sabres were widely used.

PARALYMPIC SPORT

Wheelchair fencing featured in the very first Paralympic Games in Rome in 1960. The sport was introduced in England in 1953 at the Stoke Mandeville Games, having been pioneered by Sir Ludwig Guttmann, who saw the sport’s potential for helping in the rehabilitation of spinal injuries.

During a bout, the fencers’ wheelchairs are fastened to metal frames, leaving the upper body free for duelling. There are no restrictions to upper body movement, making it just as fast and furious as the more traditional sport.

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DID YOU KNOW? The oldest fencing club in the world is Confrérie de SaintMichel. Established in Ghent in Belgium in 1613, the club still meets twice a week in the 17th century tower that has been its home for more than 400 years.

Fencing suits are white because, in times gone by, touches were recorded by attaching a piece of cotton dipped in ink to the tip of a weapon.

Paintings of a fencing match have been found in an Egyptian temple, dating back to 1190 BC. Fencing is the only non-combat sport in which there are no weight classes.

The sport is one of only five disciplines that has featured in every modern Olympics Games, along with athletics, cycling, swimming and gymnastics.

At the rate of 500 deaths a year, France was in danger of losing all of her nobility to trivial disputes, so duels were outlawed by a royal edict. Even though an apology or a few drops of blood often ended such matters, it has been claimed that during a peak 180-year period, 40,000 Frenchmen died of duelling wounds.

The last recorded duel performed not with pistols but swords (specifically épées) took place in France in 1967 – the year of the Saturn V and the Boeing 737, the Detroit riots and the Six-Day War, Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band and the Summer of Love.

GET INVOLVED

In the UK, British Fencing is the national governing body, founded in London in 1902, initially as the Amateur Fencing Association. That was 22 years after the first regularised fencing competition was staged at the Royal Agricultural Hall in Islington. The Grand Military Tournament and Assault at Arms, held in June 1880, saw a series of competitions between army officers and soldiers. Sixteen years later, fencing became a part of the modern Olympic Games, with a sabre competition among the events in Athens.

For anyone who wants to get involved in fencing as a combatant, clubs around the world offer training and competition at all levels. Children can begin fencing at age nine, making it a sport for all the family to enjoy.

In the UK alone, there are around 400 clubs, with London boasting many top salle d’armes, including the Knightsbridge Fencing Club and The Lansdowne Club.

Visit britishfencing.com for more information.

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Lu xur y sta rgazing holidays

W hat b e tte r way to exp lo re th e heavens than fro m o ne o f the wor ld’s most l u xur i o us stargazi ng d esti nati ons Words : So phia Ba rne tt 72

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Lu xur y sta rgazing holidays

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LE OB O P RI V AT E RE S E RV E SOUTH AFRI CA

For the ultimate stargazing luxury getaway, why not book into The Observatory, a private villa on the 20,000-acre Leobo Private Reserve in the Waterberg Mountains of South Africa. With a butler, maid and gourmet chef to attend to your needs, you are free to soak up the magnificent views from the heated infinity pool, rooftop jacuzzi or the terrace that boasts truly mesmerising views. As night falls, make your way to the observatory – a 7m tower-shaped library, crowned with an automated rotating copper dome and 20-inch telescope – to experience the wonders of the night sky. Also on offer are starlight safaris, where local astronomer Dr Phil Calcott will give you a tour of the heavens. leoboprivatereserve.com

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A NA NTARA K IHAVAH M AL D I VE S

What better place to enjoy the kaleidoscope of the skies than on a private island in the Maldives, in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Anantara Kihavah offers an over-water observatory with a powerful telescope through which to view the Milky Way, or perhaps Messier 13, the cluster of more than 300,000 stars in the constellation of Hercules. Book a stay in one of the island’s luxurious beach-pool residences, featuring a private infinity pool and jacuzzi, as well as a fully-equipped private gym.

And don’t miss a visit to the world’s first underwater wine cellar, where you can enjoy dining at its finest, surrounded by tropical fish and turtles. anantara.com/en/kihavah-maldives

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Lu xur y sta rgazing holidays

MT C OOK L AKE S I DE RE T RE AT NE W ZE AL AND

Lying at the heart of the southern hemisphere’s first dark sky reserve – Aoraki Mackenzie International – Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat offers an unparalleled stargazing experience.

Stay in one of the retreat’s luxurious villas and sample a seasonal four-course tasting menu that takes you from ‘earth to sky’. Then retire to the comfort of the Pukaki Wine Cellar and Observatory, purpose-built to offer spectacular stargazing partnered with some of the very best New Zealand wines. Sight the rings of Saturn or marvel at star clusters and nebula 1,000 light years away. mtcookretreat.nz

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HOT E L RAN GÁ

Pho to gra phy : Gísli Már

I CE L AND

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Iceland has long been the destination for astounding displays of the aurora borealis, but the Northern Lights are far from being the only celestial lightshow.

From September to April, a local astronomer is on hand at Hotel Rangá’s observatory to guide you through the heavens, using two high-powered telescopes to take in stars and planets. Check into one of the hotel’s themed master suites, choosing from Antarctica, Africa, Iceland or Royal, to enjoy dramatic views of the Rangá river from your balcony. The very best seasonal Icelandic produce stars on the menu, to be enjoyed while soaking up breathtaking views of the Eyjafjallajökull glacier-volcano. hotelranga.is

Lu xur y sta rgazing holidays

NAYARA AL T O AT AC AMA CHI L E

The other-worldly vistas of the Atacama Desert offer one of the best places on Earth for stargazing. From Nayara Alto Atacama’s viewpoint, Ckepi (eye in the Kunza language), soak up uninterrupted views of the night sky, and use the professional telescope to peer deeper at constellations, nebulae, or the craters of the moon.

During the daytime, bask in all that this luxury oasis has to offer. Take in the brilliant colours of the desert from the private terrace outside your suite, listening to the sounds of the San Pedro river flowing down the Andes mountains, and wonder at the stunning sunsets over the Salt Mountain range.

Pho to gra phy : @ Kristján Pé tur Vilh el mss on

nayaraaltoatacama.com

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?

ASK

BORIS Bur l i ng to n s ’ resi dent bulld og is h ere to an swer y o ur q uesti ons…

I

would like to start collecting historical military medals – what do I need to know?

Military medals offer a wealth of fascinating stories, making them not only an appreciable collector’s item but also a fascinating piece of history. Did you know, for example, that the Victoria Cross – the most prestigious British military honour – was traditionally cast from the gunmetal of a Russian cannon captured in the siege of Sevastopol in the 1850s?

The market for military medals is much the same as for any collectable item, depending on rarity, provenance, and condition.

Medals fall into two categories – campaign medals and gallantry medals. The former are awarded to members of the British Armed Forces, Allied forces and civilians participating in specific military campaigns. The latter are awarded to recognise personal bravery by a member of the British Armed Forces or a civilian.

Rarities are always desired; these include short campaigns with fewer combatants – which tends to mean fewer medals awarded – such as the Falklands War. Medals awarded for a well-known engagement or battle will increase the demand and price.

When deciding on what to invest in, you also need to consider the level of gallantry from the recipient, the

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fame of the action or campaign, and the status of the individual concerned. Medals are typically sold in groups, and the combination of decorations can add to their rarity, attraction and value.

For example, an infantry medal is scarcer than an artillery medal, and a cavalry medal rarer still. Consider a medal from one of the leading horse regiments such as the Dragoons, Life Guards or Horse Guards – it is valued at a certain level, but if awarded to a senior officer, its value climbs higher.

A recent example of a collectable medal valued for its scarcity is the Distinguished Flying Medal (DFM) awarded to (then) Sergeant William O’Brien for his gallantry during the Falklands conflict; it set a record for a medal of its type when sold for £115,000 by the specialist military and medal auctioneers Bosleys in March 2011. It was unique because it was the only DFM awarded for action in the Falklands War and the only DFM awarded to a Royal Marine. The medal is no longer awarded.

Condition will dictate the value, especially with cavalry medals that were worn on horseback in the field; the constant wear and tear from conflict actually makes them more collectable now. jordan.jordan@burlingtons.group

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