Inspirational london Autumn/Winter 2017 Edition 4

London

EMILY in this edition...

EMILY BLUNT – Brit actress set to step into the shoes of Mary Poppins CHAMPIONS (UK) PLC – Revolutionising branding with the ‘perfect 10’ INTERIOR STYLE GUIDE – Keep your home bang on trend THE INVICTUS GAMES – A look back on the world’s most inspirational sporting event INFLUENCER CHAMPIONS – Utilising the power of influencer marketing

AUTUMN/WINTER 2017

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IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

Editor in Chief Roxanna Hayes Sales Director Sophia Hayes Features Editors Frankie Sparano Matthew Hayes

editor’s note

Welcome to the autumn/winter 2017 edition of Inspirational London!

Advertising Executives Kristi Douglas

As we approach the end of the year it seems like so much has happened since we were enjoying the delights of summer and we were finalising our spring/summer magazine.

Features Writers Richard Padmore Rebecca Hales Conor Davies Kellie Tillyer Phoebe Hunt Luke Vials

Our cover star this month is popular Brit actress Emily Blunt. As she is set to star in what is tipped to be one of the biggest films of 2018, Mary Poppins Returns, we take a look at her wonderful career so far.

Senior Designers Kristian Goodeve Terri Burton Designers Liam Creek Annie Taylor Geoff Sanders Photography Kristian Goodeve Antonia Doyle Web Development Amad Tababa Dee Adetokunbo Joris Girdzijauskas Tatenda Chuma Jeff Reeve Van Duong Matt Botten Sean Downs Shez Cheema John Scanlon

Contributors

Huw Graham Jo Stevenson Darren Selby

www.inspirational.london For mailing list and subscription enquiries please visit www.inspirational.london For advertising enquiries please contact: Roxanna Hayes on 08453 31 30 31 or email: rhayes@championsukplc.com Published By

London

With Christmas now within touching distance, we look back at some of Harrods’ most iconic window displays. The store is synonymous for creating some of the most magical displays so this feature is sure to get you in the Christmas spirit.

2017 has also marked several anniversaries. It has been 20 years since the world was first introduced to the boy wizard Harry Potter, 30 years since the release of one of the most popular films of all time Dirty Dancing and HRH Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip celebrate 70 years of marriage.

There has been plenty going on in the sporting world too with the third Invictus Games which took place in September. One of the most inspirational sporting competitions in the world, we found out first hand just how special the Games are from British athlete Jamie Weller. Plus, we took a glimpse inside Tottenham Hotspurs’ new stadium which is currently in the process of being built.

This edition of Inspirational London is our fourth in total, and we are really beginning to expand our presence in the capital. Alongside our sister publication Inspirational Birmingham, we are created and published by Champions (UK) plc.

An award winning brand agency, Champions (UK) plc provides a range of services, building long lasting relationships with clients and delivering them results, across the ten pillars of the business which includes: creative, digital, marketing, PR, media, events, publishing, advertising, celebrity and web.

The latest branch of the business is Influencer Champions, established in-line with the rapid rise of social media in recent years. This edition of the magazine explores the power of influencer marketing and how it helps high profile brands raise their profile and enhance their offering.

Having hosted and attended several events this year, our social pages at the back of the magazine outline some of these high-profile events including the glamorous Vordere Legends Ball at the luxurious Jumeriah Carlton Hotel Tower and the Champions After Dinner Speakers Political Showcase at Searcys at the Gherkin.

I am delighted to welcome back our partners who have supported us since our very first edition, and also would like to welcome some new partners on board including one of the nation’s best law firms, Shoosmiths.

We are looking forward to seeing what 2018 has in store, and whatever your plans are, be sure to have your copy of Inspirational London with you.

Roxanna Hayes Editor

Champions (UK) plc Barrington House, Leake Road, Costock, Loughborough, Leicestershire LE12 6XA Tel: 08453 31 30 31 Fax: 08453 31 30 32 www.championsukplc.com Please note: Inspirational London Magazine is fully protected by copyright; no part of this magazine may be reproduced or reprinted without the complete and expressed permission of the publisher. The greatest care has been taken to ensure accuracy, however there can be no liability accepted by the publisher for errors or omissions.

Inspirational London Magazine can under no circumstances be held responsible for any materials, matter or photographical copy submitted for publication or not within the magazine. We cannot be held liable or responsible for any breaches of copyright from adverts, materials, photography or any other matter supplied by third parties.

The views and opinions expressed within this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher or indeed Inspirational London Magazine or any featured parties.

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Roxanna pictured with the Hayes family (from l-r): Matthew Hayes (Managing Director), Jack Hayes (Director), Donna Hayes (Director), John Hayes (CEO), Roxanna Hayes (Operations Director), Sophia Hayes (Sales Director) and Louisa Hayes (Project Manager).

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20 BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN

Emily Blunt............................................... 8

The Star Wars phenomenon................62

McMillan Fine Art..................................90

Zenith Cosmetic Clinics........................14

Remembering Sir Roger Moore............64

Women’s Style Guide............................20

Men’s Style Guide.................................. 66

Alistair Brown - Grove Resorts.............30

Tottenham Hotspurs’ New Stadium....74

Scarlett London......................................40

Invictus Games.......................................78

20 Years of Harry Potter.......................50

History of The Ashes.............................84

Harrods’ Christmas Window................56

Farmfoods European Senior Masters.......................................86

The practically perfect Brit stepping into Mary Poppins’ shoes

Changing the cosmetic surgery landscape

Stay on trend this autumn/winter

Helping you find the perfect resort abroad

The perfect locations for a winter getaway

Celebrating two decades of everyone’s favourite boy wizard

The department store bringing the magic to Christmas

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How a galaxy far, far, away continues to delight audiences

Celebrating everyone’s favourite 007 star

The coolest styles this autumn/winter

London’s newest stadium set to make an impact

The world’s most inspirational sporting event

Marking the 70th meeting of this iconic sporting rivalry

The latest event on the European Senior Tour

Experience the works of the capital’s finest artists

Cookers of Distinction..........................92 Experts in kitchen and outdoor appliances

Autumn/Winter Interior Trends...........94 For all your interior inspirations

JES...........................................................96 Specialists in extraction and cooking appliances

Choice Finance.......................................98 Helping home owners negotiate the world of mortgages

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40 FINE DINING GUIDE

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

SOCIAL AND NETWORKING

Fuss Free Flavours introduces........... 102

Influencer Champions........................ 114

Networking Breakfast at Searcys at The Gherkin

Langan’s Brasserie.............................. 103 Dinner by Heston Blumenthal.......... 104 The Dorchester-Dining Emporium... 105 The Hind’s Head................................. 106 A Wong................................................. 107 Mere by Monica Galetti..................... 108 Core by Clare Smyth MBE................. 109

The rise of influencer marketing

Otium Partners................................... 116 Financial and lifestyle management experts

The Dorchester Celebrity Charity Ball Toast of Surrey Business Awards

Shoosmiths.......................................... 118

Vordere Legends Ball

Freeths................................................. 123

Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship

One of the nation’s biggest law firms

Legal advice for businesses and individuals

Sean Downs St James’s Place........... 126 Experts in wealth management

Thomas International......................... 128 Helping employees perform to their best

Champion Speakers Political Showcase at The Gherkin Tony Jacklin CBE Charity Invitational UK Agency Awards

Searcys................................................. 130 One of London’s greatest bars and restaurants

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PRACTICALLY

IN EVERY WAY...

While she made an impact in The Devil Wears Prada and wowed critics in the unflinching crime thriller Sicario, 2018 looks sets to be the year that cinema goers take British actress, Emily Blunt, to their hearts once and for all, as she steps into the iconic role of Mary Poppins.

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In fact, Emily underestimated her voice and her movie career could have gone in a totally different direction. In an interview with The Sydney Morning Herald she revealed that aged 18 she signed a recording deal, saying: “I got terrified and pulled out, because I felt they were wanting me to be like Britney Spears and I was like, ‘I can’t dance, and I don’t sing like Britney Spears.’ I just felt it was snowballing too fast and it wasn’t ultimately what I wanted to do.”

It didn’t take too long for Emily to find her true passion though. In the same year (2001) she was cast opposite none other than Dame Judi Dench in a play called The Royal Family. Various theatre and TV roles followed including an appearance in Foyle’s War and Poirot.

From this launch pad, Blunt was able to take on Hollywood.

Arguably, her mainstream breakthrough role was as waspish first assistant, Emily Charlton in the brilliantly biting, The Devil Wears Prada, with Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway, a role that earned her a Golden Globe nomination. While this role brought Emily to the attention of regular movie goers, it is her earlier film, My Summer of Love (2004) that she credits as her ‘big break’.

The role, made famous by the incomparable Dame Julie Andrews in 1964, is certainly a massive one to fill. Though it seems Emily has Dame Julie’s stamp of approval. Speaking on The Today Show in the U.S. Dame Julie said: “This Mary Poppins is going to star Emily Blunt, and I’m a huge fan.”

Released in 2018, audiences will see the all-singing, all-dancing super nanny revisit her young charges, Jane and Michael Banks, some 25 years after we left them in the original Mary Poppins.

Once again helping them rediscover their joy, early released stills suggest that this rebooted Mary will still don her famous hat and of course that magical carpetbag.

Mary Poppins Returns won’t be the first-time audiences have seen Emily belt out a song on screen. In 2014, she starred in the movie adaptation of the Steven Sondheim musical, Into The Woods alongside Anna Kendrick and James Corden. Requiring her to sing, Emily took voice lessons to ensure she would be pitch perfect for movie goers.

Speaking to MTV in 2015 on the role Emily said: “I’d sung a bit in school, but I was always terrified of singing in front of people and never found it a really comfortable fit for me. I had a lot of singing lessons for this, which helped me enormously.”

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I’d sung a bit in school, but I was always terrified of singing in front of people and never found it a really comfortable fit for me. I had a lot of singing lessons for this, which helped me enormously.

Speaking of the BAFTA award-winning movie, which explores themes of class and sexuality, Emily told BuzzFeed News: “That was not only my first film, but the process was so different than anything I’d experienced before, which was theatre or television, where you’re given your script and you show up and you hit your mark and you say your lines.”

“It was demanding and exhilarating, and I learned more on that film and from Pawel Pawlikowski {director} about acting than I’ve learned from anybody else. He taught me so much about ambiguity and nuance and the power of suggestion and being courageous and having responsibility as an actor for creating your character. Just to sum it up in two words: It was terrifying and thrilling.”

With her star continuing to rise, in 2009 Emily took on the lead role in The Young Victoria, a film in which she is in virtually every scene. With so much responsibility resting on then 26-year-old Blunt’s shoulders (echoing the responsibility of the young queen she played), it would have been easy for the pressure to get to her: “You are relentless for 12 weeks,” Blunt told BuzzFeed News, “You feel the weight. You’re in every frame of the movie and you need to really be careful.”

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BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

The movie charmed audiences and critics alike with TIME magazine’s Mary F Pols stating: “Emily Blunt is utterly charming in this dramatization of the young Victoria’s ascension to the throne and her courtship with Prince Albert.”

It also established Emily as an actress able to take on a wide range of roles and what has followed since has been a series of interesting movie choices that have seen her demonstrate her versatility.

One such role was 2016’s hotly anticipated mystery, The Girl on the Train. Adapted from the bestselling novel of the same name by Paula Hawkins, The Girl on the Train charts the story of Rachel (Blunt), as she struggles with divorce and a descent into the grip of alcoholism.

supercalifragilisticexpialidocious The

filmography of Emily…

• Mary Poppins Returns (eta 2018) – Mary Poppins • Gnomeo & Juliet: Sherlock Gnomes (eta 2018) – Juliet • My Little Pony: The Movie (2017) – Tempest Shadow • Animal Crackers (2017) - Zoe Huntington • The Girl in the train (2016) – Rachel Watson • The Huntsman: Winter’s War (2016) – Freya • Sicario (2015) - Kate Macer • Into the Woods (2014) - The Baker’s wife • Edge of Tomorrow (2014) – Rita Rose Vrataski • The Wind Rises (2013) - Naoko Satomi • Arthur Newman (2013) – Michaela/ Charlotte Fitzgerald • Looper (2012) – Sara • The Five-Year Engagement (2012) - Violet Barnes • The Muppets (2011) – Cameo as Miss Piggy’s receptionist • Your Sister’s Sister (2011) – Iris • Salmon Fishing in the Yemen (2011) – Harriet Chetwode-Talbot • The Adjustment Bureau (2011) - Elise Sellas • Gnomeo & Juliet (2011) - Juliet • Gulliver’s Travels (2010) – Princess Mary • Wild Target (2010) - Rose • The Wolfman (2010) - Gwen Conliffe • The Young Victoria (2009) - Queen Victoria • Sunshine Cleaning (2008) – Norah Lorkowski • The Great Buck Howard (2008) - Valarie Brennan • Charlie Wilson’s War (2007) – Jane Liddle • Dan in Real Life (2007) - Ruthie Draper • The Jane Austen Book Club (2007) - Prudie • Wind Chill (2007) - Girl • Irresistible (2006) – Mara • The Devil Wears Prada (2006) - Emily Charlton • My Summer of Love (2004) - Tamsin

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With the story of a missing woman unfolding through the eyes of the often drunk/hungover Rachel, audiences are hooked on who did what and to whom.

Along with heavyweight roles, Emily’s filmography includes family movies too, such as Gulliver’s Travels, Gnomeo & Juliet, The Muppets, and the recent released My Little Pony: The Movie, which perhaps reflecting her role as mum to two young daughters with husband, American actor, John Krasinski.

Extremely protective of her privacy, Emily has always aimed to keep her family out of the spotlight and her private life exactly that:

“You have to have a dual existence…You have the acting side of it and the business life.... and then you have your private life and your downtime…you have to make that ‘divide’…and make it clear to you.”

She told Hello magazine.

“You’ve got to draw the line somewhere. My job is to persuade people that I’m somebody else and allow them to go on that journey with me. If you share too much about yourself, people’s interest becomes about you as opposed to the roles you have played.”

Not that Emily hasn’t been tabloid fodder in the past. Her relationship with Canadian crooner, Michael Bublé, to whom she was engaged, ended in 2008 amid much interest. While avoiding unwanted media attention is important to Emily, in an interview with InStyle, she explained another reason for wanting to maintain a distance between her work and her home life:

And with Mary Poppins Returns likely to be loved by movie goers of all ages, a whole new generation look set to be enchanted by the practically perfect Emily.

Photo Credits: First page Emily Blunt at the US premiere of her new movie “Wolfman” at the Arclight Theatre, Hollywood.

February 9, 2010 Los Angeles, CA Picture Paul Smith / Featureflash

Attending the ‘Sicario’ premiere during the 68th annual Cannes Film Festival on May 19, 2015 in Cannes, France This page, top to bottom

Previous left hand page, top to bottom

Arriving for the “Salmon Fishing in the Yemen” premiere at the Odeon Kensington, London.

10/03/2012 Picture by Simon Burchell /Featureflash

THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA premiere, AMC Loew’s Lincoln Square Theater, New York, NY, June 19, 2006

New York City, USA - May 2, 2016 Actresses Emily Blunt and Olivia Wilde attend the Manus x Machina Fashion in an Age of Technology Costume Institute Gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

CANNES, FRANCE - MAY 19, 2015 Emily Blunt, Josh Brolin, Benicio Del Toro & director Denis Villeneuve at the gala premiere for their movie “Sicario” at the 68th Festival de Cannes

Emily Blunt & husband John Krasinski at the 18th Annual Critics’ Choice Movie Awards at Barker Hanger, Santa Monica Airport. January 10, 2013 Santa Monica, CA Picture Paul Smith

The 64th Annual Golden Globe Awards at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. January 15, 2007 Beverly Hills, CA Picture Paul Smith / Featureflash

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Zenith Cosmetic Clinics are leaders in surgical, non-surgical and dental cosmetic treatments for both men and women. Located in both Nottingham and London, the clinic is underpinned by five core values – Expertise, Caring, Innovative, Excellence and Honesty. We pride in offering the latest and most innovative procedures performed by industry experts. Our core aim is to offer our patients a safe and caring environment where they feel at ease discussing any medical or cosmetic needs.

Since their launch in 2004, Zenith has significantly spread their wings, extending their offering to over 80 treatments and procedures. Available at both their Nottingham and London clinics, their specialisms lie with fat reduction, weight loss, mole/ lesion removal, skin treatments, surgical procedures and dentistry.

Fat reduction and weight loss There are times when dieting is just not enough and a helping hand is needed. Understanding the long and often difficult weight loss journey many people face, Zenith support their patients from the beginning to the end of their treatment. From non-invasive weight loss therapy to more invasive surgical treatments such as abdomino plasty (tummy tucks), Zenith lead the way for innovation and expertise in this area.

Mole/lesion removal Moles and lesions are a common feature on many people and they come in all shapes and sizes. However, for some people they can cause irritation and appear in prominent places which sees these individuals pursue a removal process.

Some patients have been known to travel from America to undergo mole removal at Zenith Cosmetic Clinics due to their pioneering reputation.

Using radiosurgery, mole/lesion removal is carried out by an experienced surgeon and takes just 15-30-minutes. One of the key worries for those undergoing mole removal is the scarring left behind. Luckily, Zenith use the most innovative technology carried out by the best doctor in the industry ensuring scarring is minimal to none.

Skin treatments Your skin says a lot about you, and imperfections can have a detrimental effect on confidence and self-esteem. Whether it be wrinkles, acne, scarring or pigmentation, Zenith offer a number of non-surgical treatments such as skin rejuvenation and laser skin resurfacing to help rejuvenate and improve skin.

Many may believe that a surgical scar will stay with them for life, but leading the way in surgical scar removal, Zenith use state-ofthe-art technology and an industry leading doctor, to significantly reduce the appearance of surgical scarring and burns of many kinds.

Surgical procedures As well as providing a wide range of non-invasive treatments, Zenith’s worldrenowned team of surgeons also carry out larger procedures including work on the face, breasts and body which are available for both men and women.

Dentistry A person’s smile is often one of the first things we notice. From missing, cracked and broken teeth to stained and crooked smiles, at Zenith it is easy to achieve a complete smile makeover with their range of innovative dental treatments which include teeth straightening and dental implants.

To find out more about the full range of procedures available at Zenith Cosmetic Clinics, and to book your consultation, please call either 0115 959 6999 or 0203 011 1103 or visit: www.zenithcosmeticclinics.co.uk.

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EVERYONE DESERVES A LITTLE LUXURY

Weekly online auctions.

Viewing by appointment. johnpye.co.uk/luxury

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UNMISTAKABLY LONDON. DISTINCTIVELY JUMEIRAH.

Experience the ultimate London stay at Jumeirah Carlton Tower, Knightsbridge. Relax in a luxurious room or suite with stunning views over London, indulge yourself at The Peak Health Club & Spa with our range of cutting-edge treatments and enjoy a quintessential afternoon tea in the opulent Chinoiserie lounge.

Visit jumeirah.com or call 020 7235 1234 to find out more.

Golf Breaks at The Belfry HOST TO MORE RYDER CUP MATCHES THAN ANY OTHER VENUE IN THE WORLD. BECOME PART OF THE LEGEND.

TO BOOK VISIT WWW.THEBELFRY.COM OR CALL US ON 01675 238 600 Belfryhotel

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BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

Paco Rabanna at The Fragrance Shop Lady Million perfume

Charlotte Tilbury at houseoffraser.co.uk

£65

Lipstick in the shade night crimson

£24

Links of London at linksoflondon.com Effervescence 18ct rose gold & diamond band ring

£875

Links of London at linksoflondon.com Effervescence 18ct rose gold & diamond hoop earrings

Lipsy (Michelle Keegan) at lipsy.co.uk

£3,700

Embroidered suede biker jacket

£170

Yves Saint Laurent at selfridges.com Touche E’clat complexion highlighted

Givenchy at harveynichols.com Black embellished leather boots

£1,050

£25.50

Elegantly Edgy This season sees an abundance of edgy pieces hitting the stores. To work the look pair textured suede or fur coats in pale shades with statement rose gold jewellery for a look that is effortlessly chic.

Who said women can’t wear heels in winter? A pair of classic Valentinos should be a style staple in your winter wardrobe. Simply style down with jeans and a biker jacket for an everyday look, or dress them up with a flared jumpsuit for the office Christmas party!

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Markus Lupfer at harveynichols.com Alex lip-embellished cotton t-shirt

£210

Saint Aymes at selfridges.com

Linea Susella sleveless jumpsuit

The Marie Antoinette cookie and 23ct gold white chocolate

£89

£9.99

Links of London at linksoflondon.com Effervescence 18ct rose gold, diamond & pearl double ring

Next at next.co.uk

£1,200

Red single breasted jacket

£48

Valentino at selfridges.com Rockstud patent leather heels

£650

Saint Laurent at selfridges.com Kate crocodile-embossed leather crossed body bag

YAS at littlewoods.com Grey fur coat

£1,330 £160

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Go to our NEW website inspirational.london/gift-guide to see more

House Of Fraser at houseoffraser.co.uk

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

Winter Treats in London When the weather starts getting colder and the skies turn grey, nothing beats a glass of spiced mulled wine, or a steaming mug of creamy hot chocolate in cosy surroundings.

Mulled Wine

Our guide offers the best places in London to find a nice warm tipple, or comforting mug of indulgence, as well as two simple ways to make your own winter warmers - for friends, family or just for you!

Tooley Street, SE1 2HD

Balls Brothers at Hays Galleria Once again, bookings have opened for the Christmas season and Balls Brothers will be sending out monthly gifts to those booking Christmas parties in advance. Balls Brothers’ classic fruity mulled wine is a holiday favourite at Hays Galleria and this year is set to welcome more people looking to sample the delicious food and drink on offer this winter.

Located two minutes from London Bridge Station, in Hays Warf, Hays Galleria features an outdoor terrace and is in a great location for corporate events, family get-togethers or a pit-stop on a shopping trip.

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The Crusting Pipe

Hot Chocolate

Jubilee Market Hall, 30 Tavistock Ct, WC2E 8RD

Winterville at Victoria Park

This popular Covent garden hub is the ideal place to stop for a winter tipple as you pass through. During the holiday season, The Crusting Pipe is host to a variety of live music events, from carols to classics, and is the place to go to get into the Christmas mood.

Grove Rd, London E3 5TB

The Crusting Pipe offers both indoor and outdoor seating; cosy, traditional décor and is located a mere two-minute walk from Covent Garden Tube Station.

The Spaniards Inn Spaniards Road, Hampstead, NW3 7JJ The Spaniards Inn is one of London’s oldest pubs, known for being featured in Charles Dickens’ The Pickwick Papers.

The venue has retained its 16th century charm and the environment offers a warm embrace on a cold autumn or winter evening. A roaring fire makes this the ideal place for a romantic evening snuggling in a booth with a glass of warm mulled wine.

Rules Bar 35 Maiden Lane, Covent Garden, London, WC2E 7LB The oldest London restaurant, Rules, has recently opened it’s upstairs bar and created a fantastically historic cocktail area for guests to relax and enjoy the charm of traditional Britain.

Elegant surroundings reflect on the times when Edward VII and his mistress Lillie Langtry would dine in private and the venue is known as one of the best places to enjoy a sophisticated drink. During the holiday period, this exquisite bar offers spiced mulled wine and a cosy atmosphere in which to reflect on the sparkle and joy of the season.

Simple Homemade Mulled Wine Ingredients: One bottle of red wine 60g demerara sugar 1 cinnamon stick Grated nutmeg 1 halved orange 1 bay leaf – dried 60ml damson gin or sloe (subject to preference) 1. Combine the wine, orange, sugar, bay leaf and cinnamon stick in a saucepan 2. Heat the mixture over a gentle heat until the sugar dissolves.

3. Test the sweetness of the wine, add more sugar if needed and gently heat until dissolved 4. Take the saucepan off the heat and stir in the gin or sloe if you are using it.

5. Strain the mixture into heatproof glasses and serve warm.

An alternative option to Christmas markets. The winterthemed adventure park hosts ice-skating, food and drink and events for all ages in November and December 2017. Food, drinks and gifts are available from a range of vendors and stalls throughout the event and a hot chocolate to warm your fingers is never far away.

SAID dal 1923 41 Broadwick St, Soho, W1F 9QL It wouldn’t be a London hot chocolate guide without SAIDs famous creation. Rome’s oldest chocolatier offers hot chocolates expertly mixed and crafted, and served in chocolate-covered cups. With a range of flavours, styles and combinations available, there’s always a new hot chocolate to fall in love with at SAID. Chin Chin Labs 49-50 Camden Lock Place, London, NW1 8AF Though Chin Chin are renowned for their nitro ice cream, their winter menu brings a sumptuous hot chocolate selection which is not to missed. For Camden regulars, Chin Chin is not a new discovery, but for those who are passing through during the Christmas shopping trip, it is a great place to stop and try something a little bit different.

Choccywoccydoodah 30 - 32 Fouberts Place, Carnaby, W1F 7PS Famously good hot chocolate and whimsical surroundings are on offer at Choccywoccydoodah in Carnaby. With a selection of white, milk and dark hot chocolates, these are the most delicious mugs of cocoa on offer. Choccywoccydoodah don’t cut any corners with their drinks, and with the bottom third of the cup containing only melted chocolate, they offer nothing but pure indulgence.

Simple Homemade Hot Chocolate Ingredients: 600ml milk 142ml double cream 100g chopped chocolate – keep a little aside for garnishing 1 bag mini marshmallows 1. Over a gentle heat, stir the milk, double cream and chopped chocolate until melted.

2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and whisk until it is smooth and creamy.

3. Pour into mugs or cups and decorate with mini marshmallows and grate the extra chocolate shavings over the top.

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BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

For some, it’s snuggling under a blanket on a rainy day, while others prefer a bean bag, cup of coffee and a book. For many, it is a way of life and the secret to living happily. It’s called hygge, it’s pronounced ‘hooga’ and it’s a trend which is enveloping the world in a warm, cosy hug.

Intrigued to find the root of these results, the then culture minister for Denmark, Bertel Haarder, set out to discover which traits were most important to Danes and discovered that hygge was rated the fourth most important value, after gender equality, legal equality and freedom.

‘Hygge’ is a Danish word with no literal English translation, though it is often likened to a feeling of cosiness or the act of slowing down and appreciating the small and special moments in life, whether alone or with loved ones.

Hygge first became popular in the UK in 2015 and that popularity has continued to grow, with fashion and interior designers picking up on the trend. Now hygge-inspired designs can be found everywhere, from cushion covers, to comfy knits.

Denmark has topped the United Nations World Happiness Reports in 2013, 2014 and 2016 – briefly dipping to third place in 2015. The report asks citizens to submit their opinions on a range of national issues and subjects, ranging from social support to institutional trustworthiness.

How hygge is achieved depends entirely on the person, or people, working toward it and the sensation will mean something different to everyone. The concept of hygge is less about the way in which you decorate your house and more about finding a personal happiness and feeling of cosiness. Here are five steps to begin making your own life more hygge:

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1. Get closer to loved ones. Your partner, close friends and family are an important part of living a hygge lifestyle and can help you to feel comforted and content – important aspects of hygge.

2. Think about your surroundings. Take time to think about how the environment makes you feel. Are your personality, strengths and beliefs reflected by your surroundings and are you truly happy and comfortable in your living space? Try to introduce colours, patterns and textures which make you, and your family, feel peaceful.

3. Take time out. Mindfulness is a technique which has become more mainstream lately, and it goes hand-in-hand with hygge. Practise focusing on the moments when you are feeling content and take in your surroundings – the colours, people, atmosphere and sounds around you. Take a minute to breathe deeply and just be.

4. Log your experiences. For the first few weeks, try making a note of the special moments, colours, textures and feelings that make you happy so that you can reflect later and determine what it is in life that makes you feel more hygge.

5. Give it time. Don’t be disheartened if you do not immediately feel content and full of satisfaction – hygge is a lifestyle which Danes have been practising for generations, and perfecting it will take practise. As long as the overall effect is a cosier, more content environment and a happier lifestyle, you are doing it right.

There are a wealth of books, articles and guides available to help you to achieve hygge in your everyday life, so why not make your favourite hot drink, put on some soft music and practice your cosy new lifestyle as you learn?

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BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

MAKE YOUR WINTER WARMER WITH HEAT HOLDERS ®

You could be forgiven for assuming that the spontaneity and adventure that comes with sunny days and summer nights must be left behind now winter is here. However, leading thermal wear brand, Heat Holders®, believe that just because we are approaching the colder time of the year, it doesn’t mean we should stop living life to the full.

With the latest hygge (pronounced hoo-ga) trend sweeping the world, Heat Holders® has taken inspiration from the feeling that hygge gives. Hygge is the art of mastering cosiness and happiness which intertwines with Heat Holders®’ ‘making life warmer’ philosophy. Supplying comfy and warm accessories such as socks, blankets, gloves and hats, Heat Holders® provide a sense of comfort that is hard to replicate.

As winter approaches, we inevitably turn our attention to making our homes as warm and cosy as possible. Something Heat Holders®’ new range of SnuggleUp blankets can help

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with! With a colour to match everyone’s home interior you can be sure to find a blanket to match your style. Heat Holders® have hand-picked their top festive products you can get your hands on this winter.

Snow Fall At this time of year, it can be hard to avoid snow and ice, however Heat Holders’® Snow Fall luxury blanket will leave you anything but cold. In a beautifully pigmented white tone, this blanket will make the perfect companion in front of the TV this winter.

Cranberry Red is of course the traditional colour of the festive season, and the Cranberry blanket idea is dark, elegant and reminiscent of mulled wine. So, why not enjoy a glass with a loved one in front of the fire whilst wrapped up in this product.

Hot Chocolate If you would prefer to opt for a more country-chic look then the Hot Chocolate SnuggleUp is the one for you. A sleek brown colour, these rich tones go perfectly with contrasting fabrics such as leather sofas and chairs. One of the brand’s most stylish blankets, this is a favourite of the winter getaway.

Winter Fawn This fawn-hued blanket is the perfect addition for homes looking for a contemporary yet classic style. Complementing all kinds of interior schemes, Winter Fawn is sure to add a touch of warmth to your home.

As well as a wonderful selection of SnuggleUp blankets Heat Holders® also has a new range of socks that will make the perfect festive gift. Scientifically proven to be the warmest thermal socks available they have a TOG rating of 2.3 and experts have never tested a sock with a higher rating than Heat Holders.

Little ones aren’t left out either, with Heat Holders’® range of character socks which will keep their toes toasty all day long. The range includes a variety of popular characters from childrens’ films including a selection of Disney’s famous princesses. The likes of Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty and Ariel all feature on the socks and at this time of year the matching Frozen Anna and Elsa editions always go down a treat.

Alternatively, if your little ones are superhero fans, then the range of Marvel character socks are here to save the day – or the Christmas shopping dilemma! Spiderman, Captain America and The Incredible Hulk are all available, but if the DC Universe is your preference then Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman will all keep your feet snug this winter.

One of the biggest film releases of 2017 takes place in December with Star Wars: Episode VIII The Last Jedi hitting our screens. Heat Holders’ Star Wars socks can make the perfect stocking fillers for fans of the franchise with R2D2 and C-3PO character socks on offer as well as the evil Stormtroopers.

If Star Wars isn’t your child’s thing then how about mischievous minions from the loveable Despicable Me films?

Bright and vibrant like the Minions themselves, the socks are perfect for the cheeky little ones.

Wanting to encourage the nation to go outdoors and enjoy all the beauty the winter season brings, they also have a range of thermal hats, gloves and wellie socks in a variety of colours, to keep you warm and on-trend this season. The thermal range follows the theme of the socks when it comes to warmth. With the gloves measuring a 2.3 tog and even more impressively, the hats have a 3.4 tog rating.

Available in all leading High Street stores, make sure you avoid the winter chill this year and get kitted out for the months ahead by checking out what else Heat Holders® have on offer by visiting their website www.heatholders.co.uk

Visit our website to shop the range

www.heatholders.co.uk AUTUMN/WINTER 2017 ISSUE 4

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OR LA ND O ’S N EWES T VACATION H OM E R ESO RT L ESS T HA N 5 MI NUT ES F RO M WA LT D I SNEY WO R LD

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Welcome home…

Each year thousands of Brits cross the Atlantic to visit the sunnier climes of popular destinations such as Florida and the Caribbean. Boasting glorious, year-round temperatures, exceptional opportunities for outdoor living and stunning beaches, it is little wonder that these short visits spur the desire for a holiday home abroad.

Enter Alistair Brown International Real Estate…

Headed up by Alistair himself, a former professional golfer now boasting expertise in real estate branding, marketing and sales, Alistair Brown International Real Estate, are experts in matching people with their dream home abroad. Alistair is Scottish born but US-based and occupies a unique position in the real estate market with his ability to understand both the UK buyer and the US property market.

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With decades of experience in the world of hospitality and real estate development, Alistair has held key senior management positions with both global hospitality groups, including Fairmont Resorts & Hotels International and luxury builders, WCI Communities.

The global Alistair Brown has lived and traveled throughout the world, something his clients now benefit from: “Through lifelong experiences on both sides of the travel and hospitality industry, I have built up an extensive network of contacts and gained invaluable know-how. I now have access to the very best properties available and a network of the industry’s finest professionals.”

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BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

Bursting with energy and enthusiasm, Alistair has honed 25 years of experience in the residential resort property sector and has built an enviable network of worldwide clients in the process.

Delivering a truly bespoke experience, Alistair’s ability to find the right destination and property for each client is based upon a detailed understanding of their needs and desires.

From the moment the client begins collaborating with Alistair Brown International Real Estate, the concierge travel experience begins.

“All travel arrangements are taken care of”, confirms Alistair. “We want our clients to live ‘a lifestyle’, upon arrival. They immediately become part of the local community, as we experience dining and leisure activities together.”

The Alistair Brown International Real Estate difference…

An expert communicator, Alistair places great value on listening: “Our clients feel and know that we ‘get it’, that we understand not only what they are asking for, but why.”

This ability to truly understand their clients is at the heart of the Alistair Brown International Real Estate offering, as Alistair points out: “From the very first conversation, I am thinking about the client; their family, their likes and dislikes and those subtleties and emotional triggers that are important to their lifestyle.”

“Before we think about property we need to know why they have made the decision to start the search.” He continued, “Everything I learn about them creates a vision, which I then use to hand pick properties for their unique situation.”

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With the aim of helping his clients feel at home, they can also expect a trip to the beach, a round of golf or other such activities to help them see what life in this new location could be like. It is this attention to detail that helps clients see the whole picture when it comes to a new life overseas and along with the concierge service, it is what sets Alistair Brown International Real Estate apart.

A place to call home…

Whether an ultra-modern villa or an attractive home suitable for a growing family, the Alistair Brown team find the right property for every client.

With years of experience in global locations such as South Florida, Orlando, San Francisco, Barbados, London, Paris, Tuscany and Catalunya, Spain, Alistair offers new build homes in world class locations.

With direct access to many developments, often before they are offered to the general public, Alistair Brown International Real Estate enjoys an enviable position on both sides of the Atlantic.

As an International Brand Ambassador with the famed, One Sotheby’s Miami group, Alistair has unparalleled access to some of the world’s most beautiful and unique properties with current offerings including: • The Turnberry Ocean Club, Sunny Isles Beach, North Miami • One Thousand Museum, Downtown Miami • Aventura Park Square, Aventura, Florida • Le Palais Royale, Hillsboro Beach, Florida, • And the unique Grove Resort & Spa, Orlando, a next door neighbour to Walt Disney World®

John Hayes, CEO, Champions (UK) plc, said of Alistair Brown International Real Estate: “The personal service I have received from Alistair Brown International Real Estate has been second to none.

At every step of the way, he made it his business to understand what was important to me and my family and designed his offering around this. I felt that Alistair not only listened to what I wanted, but that he also understood me and my motivations. Alistair’s dedicated focus on his clients and business ethos reflects the values that are important to me and it was a pleasure to work with him.

Bursting with enthusiasm, Alistair’s knowledge and network proved invaluable and he took care of everything - I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him.”

So, let your journey begin…

Delivering the personal touch, Alistair Brown International Real Estate is based in both the UK and USA and is on hand to help with every aspect of your property search.

To discuss your requirements or to find out more, contact Alistair Brown International Real Estate on 0845 051 9203 or 0787 606 2147. Alternatively email Alistair@abire.co.uk or Koprinka@abire.co.uk

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BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

West Coast Luxury in Barbados

Barbados, a picturesque island with scenery so breathtaking a photographic opportunity presents itself at every turn. With dramatic outstretches of crystal clear waters that frame pristine coastlines, the haven promises an unforgettable vacation of tranquility and surprise. Whilst the charming landscapes are promising enough, the eclectic culture of the island is the main attraction, celebrating an assortment of historical, cultural and sporting opportunities, complemented by lavish accommodation and a myriad of restaurants to suit all tastes.

The island offers an array of 5 star accommodation options from luxurious resorts and sumptuous villas to generous hotels and premium apartment complexes. Visitors can expect bespoke service catered towards their desires.

Port Ferdinand Marina & Beach Club and Saint Peter’s Bay Luxury Residences Port Ferdinand Marina & Beach Club offers spacious luxury homes complete with yacht berth and balconies with marina views. Port Ferdinand provides the ultimate in luxury living, as the homes are beautifully appointed, featuring coral stone walls, solid wood fittings, marble floors and quality furnishings in a traditional cool Caribbean style. There is a fantastic choice of facilities and activities and direct access to the beach with Nikki Beach Barbados opening here later this year

www.portferdinand.com Saint Peter’s Bay is ideally situated on a beautiful stretch of beach on the island’s north west coast, the luxurious residences offer a stylish and contemporary home from home with plenty of space to spread out and the resort’s dedicated concierge team will thoroughly pamper and spoil you during your stay. Take the complimentary water taxi to sister property Port Ferdinand or let a private chef cater for you in the comfort of your own residence, a stay at Saint Peter’s Bay is all about having the freedom to do things your way.

www.stpetersbaybarbados.com

Coral Reef Club and The Sandpiper Located directly on fine white sandy beaches lapped by warm Caribbean waters are the family run Coral Reef Club and The Sandpiper. The plantation style Coral Reef Club’s 88 rooms and suites are set in lush tropical gardens where monkeys play in the tree tops and guests sip cocktails under shady palms fringing the powder white beach. The Sandpiper, with its stylish lap pool and idyllic, understated Harold’s Beach Bar appeals to guests looking for something a little more contemporary but with the intimacy of a family run property. Come, relax and rejuvenate under Caribbean skies and sunshine.

www.coralreefbarbados.com www.sandpiperbarbados.com

To book any of these properties please contact your preferred travel agent or tour operator.

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Fairmont Royal Pavilion, Barbados Perfectly located on an enviable half mile crescent beach, the boutique Fairmont Royal Pavilion is ideally situated on the West Coast of Barbados. All 72 newly refurbished guest rooms and suites elegantly designed, with muted colours are uniquely ocean front. 48 Oceanfront Deluxe rooms with clear glass balconies, offer spectacular unobstructed views of the glistening Caribbean sea, while 24 stylish Beachfront Junior Suites, complete with butler service and decked terrace just a step on to the beach. A welcoming staff, exceptional cuisine and an array of complimentary leisure facilities, make this resort perfect for romantic getaways, memorable celebrations and unforgettable family holidays, welcoming the most discerning traveller’s wanting to embrace a truly Bajan experience.

Open-air dining at Fairmont Royal Pavilion in two beachside restaurants with breath taking Ocean views, the sound of the waves lapping or local musical talent. The popular Sunday brunch is a must, with Catch of the Day, BBQ and delicious Bajan cuisine, all to the lilt of a steel pan. Complimentary amenities include Tennis and non-motorised watersports, plus traditional Afternoon Tea is served on the terrace daily. A highlight to any stay at Fairmont Royal Pavilion is swimming with the Turtles from the shore.

www.fairmont.com

Cobblers Cove, Barbados English elegance with Caribbean character, located on the platinum west coast of Barbados, Cobblers Cove offers a haven of grace and tranquillity to discerning travellers. The beachside hotel has 40 suites, each individually decorated and open to the ocean and tropical garden surroundings. Serving the finest food on the island, The Camelot Restaurant is a destination in itself - make sure to visit us soon.

www.cobblerscove.com

Colony Club, The House, Treasure Beach by Elegant Hotels Colony Club is situated on the finest stretch of Barbados’ Platinum West Coast, with soaring palm trees, lagoon-style pools and serene tropical gardens. Colony is a truly timeless retreat. Pool and Beach Ambassadors offer a variety of services catering to all needs, making sure guests feel pampered and special.

The House by Elegant Hotels is a chic adults-only boutique hotel, set to re-open early October 2017 after undergoing extensive renovations to modernise its current ocean-inspired design and build its first Spa area. Guests are welcomed with a complimentary 30-minute jet-lag massage and, during the holiday, they can enjoy complimentary and daily treats such as champagne breakfast, afternoon tea and evening canapés.

Set to open on pre Christmas 2017, Treasure Beach is the seventh Elegant Hotels property on the magnificent Caribbean island of Barbados. A true gem amongst luxury hotels in the Caribbean, located in Paynes Bay, St. James, on one of the most beautiful beaches of the Platinum West Coast of Barbados. The 35-room all-suite hotel is set in lush, tropical gardens with stunning views overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

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BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

Jeremy Sutton Private Travel

“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.”- St. Augustine While this quote was written by Saint Augustine before his death in 430AD, a time when the world, for the most part, was largely unexplored, the sentiments – of broadening one’s horizons and experiencing new cultures, food and sights – still remain true today.

These days the world seems a much smaller place; the internet, cheap flights and increased disposable income have helped to make travellers of us all.

From an annual two-week retreat spent soaking up the sun on a beautiful white sandy beach, overlooking crystal clear waters, to time spent amongst snow-covered mountains tackling the slopes - whatever your idea of a relaxing break is, you no doubt want it exactly your way.

JSPT, a leader when it comes to luxury travel, offer a dedicated and personalised travel service for the discerning traveller. Members are able to experience travel as it should be – in luxury, hassle-free and tailored to their specific requirements.

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JSPT work with only the finest suppliers, guaranteeing the best possible service and quality products. The company partners with some of the world’s best travel suppliers, and through their preferred relationships with tour operators such as A&K, Carrier, ITC and Lusso, are able to get the very best deals for their members.

With every detail taken care of, the in-house team of travel experts, who are widely travelled themselves, can organise private jets or yachts through JSPT’s network of trusted suppliers, ensuring those members who wish to, can enjoy the ultimate in luxury travel.

Holiday time is often hard-earned and always precious, and the team at JSPT believe it should be enjoyed in style. It is this commitment to ensuring its members have the luxury breaks they deserve that drives the JSPT team to create bespoke holidays that exceed their members’ expectations.

From an initial brief, the JSPT travel experts use their passion and expertise to design tailor-made luxury travel experiences that offers something beyond the norm. With requests, big or small, easily accommodated, members are able to enjoy a slice of secluded luxury on a beach break, a safari trip that is extra-adventurous or an adventure break that is all the more exhilarating.

Of course, a great holiday is about more than the activities you enjoy.

To fully relax you need to be sure that your accommodation is up to your exacting standards.

Reader Offer

With this in mind, JSPT design luxury holidays around the world’s finest hotels, all of which boast exceptional facilities, luxury décor and the finest gourmet dining. What’s more, JSPT members receive exclusive benefits at over 850 of the world’s best luxury hotel chains, including:

An exclusive travel club, membership to JSPT is by invitation or recommendation only. However, for a limited time, membership is open to readers of Inspirational London who are invited to join and experience the benefits this exceptional personalised travel service offers.

• Mandarin Oriental

• Aman

• Six Senses

• Maybourne

• Belmond

• St Regis

• Peninsula

• One&Only

• Rosewood

Benefits include: • Tailor-made travel experiences • Luxury accommodation

Along with many, many more luxury hotels and independent five-star hotels across the globe. Or, for those who prefer, JSPT can source private villas which also offer exceptional standards of living.

• Travel in style with the world’s best tour operators

JSPT was founded by Jeremy Sutton - the founder of the awardwinning Quintessentially Travel. Jeremy brings to JSPT his many years of experience within the luxury travel market and accepts only the highest standards in his pursuit of excellence for his clients.

• Outstanding service every step of the way

Along with arranging luxury travel breaks the company is also able to cater for corporate travel events and can design bespoke travel experiences to suit any budget.

• Private travel options available on request

To find out more about the complete range of member’s benefits, call 0208 941 3850 or email info@jspt.co.uk and quote ‘Inspi2017’.

www.jspt.co.uk AUTUMN/WINTER 2017 ISSUE 4

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SCARLETT LONDON’S to p wi nter ge ta wa ys Summer has now passed and people everywhere are reflecting on a wonderful summer, bursting with memories. However, just because the colder months are now upon us does not mean we shouldn’t mean we should stop enjoying ourselves. With a host of locations to choose from, including spectacular snowy settings to sun kissed beaches, a winter getaway can be the perfect trip for you.

Scarlett Dixon, known to her 1O,OOO monthly blog readers and +25K Instagram followers, as Scarlett London is one of the most popular travel, beauty, fashion and lifestyle social influencers around.

Inspirational London has asked for Scarlett’s expert insight into the best places to visit this winter.

@Scarlett_London @scarlettlondon @ScarlettLondonBlog

TAKE TO THE SLOPES IN ST MORITZ WHEN TO GO? If you want to enjoy these alpine delights without the hefty price-tag, opt for an off peak date where you’ll still be able to experience all it has to offer and tackle the slopes at your own pace!

WHAT TO DO? Ski of course! However, if you’re not a passionate skier then rest assured, there are plenty of other activities to get involved in – including hiking, shopping, eating and skating. As well as these, be sure to make time for some snow yoga, perfect for those looking to fully immerse themselves in the surroundings.

WHERE TO STAY? The Kulm Hotel is probably one of the most illustrious accommodation resorts in the town, with an equally as impressive history. Having been built over 15O years ago, the hotel has recently been awarded the prestigious GaultMillau ‘Hotel of the Year’ 2O18 award.

EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY OF ICELAND WHEN TO GO? The famous Northern lights are easiest to spot between September-April so a tour of the Golden Circle is a must while you’re visiting. As you pass the tectonic plates the geysirs you will be giving yourself the best chance of experiencing this natural beauty with your own eyes. !

WHAT TO DO? Defined by its dramatic landscapes, with glaciers, hot springs and volcanos, Iceland is certainly a holiday that many may not normally opt for. However, it’s much more of an experience than a ‘relaxing break’ and is perfect for those who like to explore.

As well as its stunning landscapes, Iceland is also famed for its food, with an assortment of unusual local dishes on offer. Icelandic’s are also rather fond of roasted puffin and shark meat, the latter of which is buried under ground for 12 weeks before being fermented for months, in order to make it safe for consumption!

WHERE TO STAY? The Blue Lagoon may be a tourist staple but reviews don’t lie it really is worth it. Allocate a whole day to swimming in the amazing blue, steaming warm waters – which astounds you with its velvety waters.

EXPERIENCE THE CULTURE OF QATAR WHEN TO GO? As the climate can be scorching in the summer, Qatar is perfect for a winter getaway as the weather is much cooler and more pleasant from November onwards.

WHAT TO DO? If you’re looking for a recharge, then perhaps it’s a wellness centric hotel that you’ll need – in which case, The Westin Doha is where you’ll want to head. One of the latest additions to the city (it’s just celebrated its first birthday), this Starwood property combines chic design with a serene spa-like setting, for the ultimate tranquil retreat.

WHERE TO STAY? If you’re looking to immerse yourself in that culture and get a feel for the thrill of daily life in Qatar, then you’ll want to be close to Souq Waqif, one of the oldest Souq’s in the city.

With centuries of history and a labyrinth of intertwining alleyways, filled with street sellers offering an assortment of authentic spices, handmade textiles, perfume, souvenirs and rather unusually, pets.

DON YOUR SOMBRERO IN CANCUN WHEN TO GO? Cancun in Mexico is the perfect place to escape the dreary UK weather and catch some winter some at this time of year. Revel in the beautiful beaches, stunning scenery and delectable cuisine with temperatures reaching the mid to high twenties from November onwards.

WHAT TO DO? Snorkel along the coral reef, swim with whale sharks in the ocean, or head to one of the local water parks Xcaret or Xel-Ha - which far surpass anything you’ll experience anywhere else in the world.

WHERE TO STAY? Accommodation wise, make your base luxurious - since you can secure a five-star hotel during the winter months relatively on budget. The Secrets resorts are ideal, with their attention to detail and incredible, authentic food.

Scarlett London can enhance your brand with her thousands of followers so if you would like to book her for your brand get in touch with Influencer Champions.

aneate@influencerchampions.com O8453 31 3O 31 @InfluencerChampions

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DISCOVER BELGRAVIA’S BOUTIQUE BEAUTY.

Located in one of London’s most exclusive neighbourhoods, Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel offers a warm welcome with a choice of stylish guest rooms and suites. Enjoy contemporary dining in Lowndes Bar & Kitchen, discover London with a self guided tour on our complimentary Belgravia Bikes and relax in the indoor swimming pool or jacuzzi at the nearby Peak Health Club & Spa.

For more information, visit jumeirah.com or call +44 (0)20 7823 1234

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BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

Binge-worthy Box sets Your autumn/winter viewing sorted There used to be a time when, shock horror, we had to watch our favourite TV shows when TV schedulers told us to! Yes, long before streaming, downloading and one-touch serieslink recording, we were all slaves to the TV guide.

want to watch! With this in mind, check out our guide to binge worthy boxsets this autumn/winter season…

These days of course our TV viewing is very much on our terms, with more and more of us choosing when and where we watch our favourite shows.

Violence, sex, betrayal - GoT has it all. If you are yet to get into this multi-award-winning fantasy series, do so now, you’re sure to be hooked. There are six series to catch up on while the seventh, which contains just seven episodes, aired in July 2017.

From Netflix to catch-up TV, Amazon Prime, NOW TV and on demand viewing, our choices are vast with many of us using these services to binge watch our favourite shows, often getting through an entire series in just one weekend!

Of course, with so many viewing options it is easy to miss shows you might love or, as often happens, waste time scrolling through hundreds of options to find something you

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Game of Thrones

Modern Family Following three families as they navigate the highs and lows of family life, this mockumentary is packed with loveable characters and plenty of laughs. With eight seasons to get through, you can binge until your heart’s content!

The Crown

Stranger Things

Bafta nominated, this drama focuses on the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, in particular the years 1947 to 1955. With its big budget and impressive cast, The Crown has had viewers hooked at this look at our Royals. There is currently one season to sink your teeth into, although season two, covering the years 1955 to 1964, is expected soon.

Released in 2017, Stranger Things has captured the imagination of viewers everywhere. Sitting somewhere between sci-fi and horror, Stranger Things casts Winona Ryder as a mother whose son has gone missing in what could be supernatural circumstances… season two is currently underway, much to fans’ delight!

Better call Saul

Orange is the New Black

Fans of the phenomenally successful Breaking Bad will already have met Saul, a lawyer with questionable values, who is the protagonist in this successful spin-off. A prequel to the events of Breaking Bad, three seasons are currently available, so plenty for those looking to kick back and relax to get stuck into.

Easy viewing, Orange is the New Black (OITNB) follows Piper Chapman, a woman sentenced to 15 months in a minimum-security prison as she negotiates her new foundcircumstances and we learn more about her fellow inmates through flashbacks. A comedy-drama, OITNB is Netflix’s most watched original series and for those looking for a serious binge-watch, you’ll find five seasons ready to watch.

House of Cards With a cast led by Academy Award winner, Kevin Spacey, fans of political dramas are in for a treat with 65 episodes spread over five seasons to discover. Based on the original BBC drama, House of Cards is set in America’s political heartland - Washington D.C and follows politician, Frank Underwood (played by Spacey), as he strives for greater power -through whatever means.

If you are yet to indulge in a boxset binge, with the weather now turning gloomier, now is the perfect time to sit back and take your pick!

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BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

And the Oscar goes to...…

4 March 2018 will mark a very special anniversary for movie buffs everywhere – the 90th Academy Awards.

The very first Academy Awards took place in 1929, (with two in 1930), and was a private dinner, which brought together less than 300 people at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, Los Angeles, California.

Since then, it is fair to say things have changed somewhat.

Now watched by millions around the world, The Oscars, as they are known, are a huge advertising opportunity, with nominated ‘Best Picture’ films receiving a significant boost in revenue and nominated actors and actresses able to command even higher salaries following their nomination or win.

The earning potential of winning an Oscar continues beyond the role for which the award was won. Subsequent movie promotion will almost always capitalise on the fact they have an Oscar winner or nominee on the cast list.

Rebranded in 2013, after the nickname given to the muchcoveted golden statuettes that winners receive, The Oscars are an icon of modern culture and that little golden figure is the must have accessory for movie stars everywhere.

With an Oscar win under their belt, movie stars are not only able to earn more, but the type of roles open to them often change, with weightier, meatier roles now on offer.

While in the long term The Oscars are undeniably a way to boost earnings, the ceremony itself is all about glamour.

The best dressed list…

From who wore which designer to the jewellery and hair, every aspect of a star’s outfit is scrutinised, with actresses often bearing the brunt of the media’s attention.

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If something is out of place, whether it be a dress that doesn’t flatter or photograph well or shoes that aren’t bang on trend, a spot on ‘the worst dressed list’ is sure to follow.

For actresses, the pressure of looking great when walking the red carpet can be intense. British actress and star of 2017’s Beauty and the Beast, Emma Watson, told The Edit: “Getting ready for an event can feel like a lot of pressure. You have to consider, ‘Will people see up my skirt? If a flash goes off, can you see through this?’ So, I’ll do a test sitting, a test standing… It’s nerve-wracking. People really scrutinize. On the red carpet, I’m usually in so much discomfort – my shoes are uncomfortable, I can’t breathe in the dress. I don’t compromise like that in my everyday style.”

Facing so much scrutiny, it is no wonder that actresses can try on dozens of dresses before they feel they have found the right one for them. Often loaned to stars, designers can benefit from the kind of publicity money can’t buy, making it well worth the effort it takes to get a superstar to wear their brand.

90th Birthday Presiding over the 90th anniversary celebrations and presenting the awards for his 2nd consecutive year, is talk show host Jimmy Kimmel, who announced his appointment in his typically irreverent style with this tweet: @jimmykimmel Thanks to @TheAcademy for asking me to host The #Oscars again (assuming I opened the right envelope)

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Of course, Jimmy was referring to the now infamous envelope mix up at the 2017 ceremony, where La La Land was mistakenly announced as winner of ‘Best Motion Picture’ (it was actually coming of age movie, Moonlight). Naturally much confusion, and embarrassment for the producers, followed.

The Academy

This isn’t the first time (nor will it be the last) that the awards have left people with red faces. In 2013 on her way to collect her ‘Best Actress’ award, Jennifer Lawrence fell up the steps on the way to the stage…and then did it again in 2014 on the red carpet!

Deciding who will triumph is down to the 6,200 film industry professionals who make up the Academy. Deciding on the nominations can be complicated with different members allowed to vote on different categories. However, once the nominees have been set, each member gets to vote on their favourite within each category.

Controversy Apart from slips, trips and getting names wrong (remember John Travolta’s inability to pronounce Idina Menzel’s name in 2014?), over the years The Oscars have seen more serious controversy. In recent years the Academy has come under fire for a lack of diversity amongst nominations. In 2016, for the second year in a row, every actor nominated was white, leading US actress, Jada Pinkett Smith, to call for the ceremony to be boycotted. The story rumbled on for months, with many big stars weighing in with even the then President Barack Obama making comment.

In the end, the Academy was forced to make changes to its voting process and in 2016 a record number of new members were added.

There are 24 awards on offer at each Oscar ceremony including ‘Best Cinematography’, ‘Best Director’ and ‘Best Costume Design’.

With reports that many Academy members were over 50 and that 94% were white and 77% male, to steer the awards away from the accusation that it lacks diversity, the Academy’s president, Cheryl Boone Isaacs, knew that mixing things up was essential in maintaining the award’s credibility.

Recent additions to the member’s list include British actors, Dev Patel (Slumdog Millionaire, Lion) and Tom Hardy (Mad Max, Legend) along with La La Land’s Emma Stone and Rosamund Pike (Gone Girl, Jack Reacher).

Whether you stay up late to catch all the action live from the red carpet or wait to see the morning headlines, one thing is for sure, the 90th Academy Awards will be one to remember.

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THE FILM THAT HAS GIVEN US THE TIME OF OUR LIVES FOR 30 YEARS “Me? I’m scared of everything. I’m scared of what I saw, I’m scared of what I did, of who I am, and most of all, I’m scared of walking out of this room and never feeling the rest of my whole life, the way I feel when I’m with you” – Baby

It was the autumn of 1987, a year which saw Margaret Thatcher re-elected as Prime Minister, Wall Street crash on the now infamous Black Monday, and the Great Storm lash through south-east England and yet it was the gentle nostalgia of a 1960s set movie which captivated the hearts of audiences everywhere.

For many it may only feel like yesterday that dance lothario, Johnny Castle, and the innocent Frances ‘Baby’ Houseman first graced our screens with their on-screen story of firstlove, discovery and of course dance, but this year the film celebrates its 30th anniversary!

When director Emile Ardolino, and screenplay writer Eleanor Bergstein, began putting their heads together to create the film, they and all the cast involved, were unaware of the impact the film would go on to have.

The film was a box office smash going on to become a global sensation, making an all-time $213,900,000 in the worldwide box office!

30 years on, people everywhere now know that nobody puts Baby in the corner, that the place to practise a tricky lift is in a cold lake and that carrying a watermelon into a club is a sure-fire way to meet the man that will sweep you off your feet – literally.

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The key aspect that shaped the film’s success was arguably its perfect cast. Johnny Castle needed to be confident in himself but vulnerable in his social standing while Baby needed to project quite the opposite and after blowing the crew away with their auditions, the responsibility for the film’s fate was placed into the hands of 34-year-old Patrick Swayze and 27-year-old Jennifer Grey.

However, Ardolino and Bergstein didn’t go in blind with these choices. Patrick and Jennifer were an on-screen romance that people were not completely unfamiliar with, as the duo had starred alongside one another in 1984 disaster film, Red Dawn. Despite this, it is their iconic on-screen chemistry in Dirty Dancing, which many directors to this day look for when casting a couple. This, though, is testament to Patrick and Jennifer’s acting ability because it was famously reported that the pair did not get on, off-screen.

Such has been the impact of the film, it has been reworked to suit the stage and the TV throughout the years. The most successful of which came in 2006 when Dirty Dancing – The Classic Story On Stage took residency at Aldwych Theatre, on the West End, for over five years, drawing audiences from around the world and selling out time and again.

In 2004 Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights, set in 1950s Cuba was released – but didn’t quite go down in history the way its predecessor did. Neither did the most recent television remake of the film which came in May 2017. ABC created a reimagining of the film across a three-part series which was pulled apart at the seams by viewers and critics alike. Nothing seems to, or probably ever will live up to the original!

Sadly 22 years after Patrick performed that lift the world’s heart broke when, after a brave battle with pancreatic cancer, he passed away aged just 57.

His passing was a sad day for Hollywood and movie fans everywhere, but while the world mourned the loss of one of Hollywood’s iconic and most talented actors, it was acknowledged that he had carved a legacy that would live on forever.

Patrick once said: “If I leave this earth, I want to leave this earth just knowing I’ve tried to do something worthwhile with myself.” His career certainly reflects his commitment to his art and during his years in the spotlight he starred in some 35 films.

Some not-so dirty secrets about the film • Both Jennifer and Patrick were 10 years older than the characters they were playing.

• 27-year-old Jennifer Grey won her part in just five minutes after successfully proving to filmmakers that she could convincingly play a teenager.

• Mountain Lake Lodge, known as Kellerman’s in the film, regularly hosts Dirty Dancing weekends.

• The iconic scene of Johnny and Baby in the dance studio, was a spontaneous warm-up the duo did before filming.

The director loved it so much he made them re-enact it and went on to play a huge part in the film we know today!

• Johnny’s annoyance at Baby’s ticklish behaviour during dancing, was real anger towards the actress – the scene took countless takes due to Jennifer Grey being unable to control her tickles.

• The title of the film was nearly named ‘I Was A Teenage Mamba Queen’ due to Canada thinking Dirty Dancing sounded too much like a porn film.

• Dirty Dancing is based on screenwriter Eleanor Bergstein’s personal adolescent experiences.

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20 years on and the Harry Potter magic continues…

1997 was a significant year for several reasons, Tony Blair became Prime Minister ending Labour’s 18 years as opposition, NASA landed the Pathfinder probe on Mars and the literary world was taken by storm when the boy who lived was introduced to audiences for the very first time.

It’s hard to believe that 20 years have passed since we first met Harry Potter and the magical world of Hogwarts and quidditch but it is impossible to ignore, even now, the impact this literary phenomenon has had on many levels.

On the 26 June 1997, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone was first published and no-one, including author J.K. Rowling, could have predicted what would happen next. To date the first book alone has sold 107 million copies, been translated into 67 languages and become an international best seller as the world fell under the spell of Rowling’s fantasy world.

The Harry Potter universe has captured the imagination of an entire generation with seven books, eight films, four theme park attractions, an Olivier award-winning West End play and the start of a new spin-off film series (Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them) expanding the franchise.

One of the most remarkable things about the Harry Potter story is the rise of J.K. Rowling, a famously single mother struggling to make ends meet to one of the most significant authors in British literature. Incredibly, the idea for Harry and his magical world first occurred to Rowling whilst she was on a delayed train from Manchester to London. In the biography of her life she has previously said the character of Harry Potter “just fell into my head” and by the time the train journey had come to an end a lot of the magical world had been formed.

Inspired, Rowling spent the next five years in Portugal and Scotland developing her idea. By 1995 she had completed the

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first novel and she had also planned out large sections of the following six books on everything from scrap paper to airplane sick bags.

Wholeheartedly believing in the success her books could bring, the next challenge was getting published. In total, 12 publishers rejected the manuscript of the first book, a decision they would later come to regret. Finally finding a home with Bloomsbury Publishing, they advised her to use her initials ‘J.K.’ on the front cover rather than her first name Joanne as they believed it more likely to appeal to male readers.

Always destined to be a hit, J.K. Rowling’s life was never the same again. One year later the second book in the series Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets was released instantly claiming the top spot on the UK best-seller list. Each subsequent book continued to break records and by the time the final book in the series was released at midnight on 21 July 2007, Harry Potter had become a global phenomenon. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows was the final novel in the series and a record-breaking number of copies were sold on the day of its release; 8.3 million in the USA and 2.65 in the UK. As well as the books, Harry Potter is also one of the most successful film franchises of all time. The eight movies, (Deathly Hallows was split in to two films), have grossed a total of $8.5 billion and launched the careers of Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson in the roles of the lead trio.

The Harry Potter legacy continues to live on through an eighth story, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child a play which focuses on (spoiler alert!) Harry’s son Albus Potter and his own adventures at Hogwarts. With tickets for the play selling fast and the script also released as a book selling over 2million copies on the first day of its release, this frenzy began in

July 2016 in London’s West End and it has recently been announced it will travel to Broadway in 2018.

A spinoff franchise, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, which takes place in Potter’s wizarding world 70 years prior to the events of the first book, was released in 2016 with four more films set to follow.

Fans can continue to experience the magic in a number of ways. Since filming ended on the final movie back in 2011 Leavesden studios in Watford, where all eight films were shot, has opened its doors. Visitors are able to experience the film like never before seeing the real sets that the actors worked on to costumes and props. People can even step onto platform 9¾ and venture into the spooky Forbidden Forest.

Harry Potter inspired theme parks have also been launched in USA and Japan where the wizarding world has been recreated. Guests can eat in the Leaky Cauldron, go shopping

in Hogsmeade or even buy a personalised wand from Diagon Alley. All the parks also have fantastic Harry Potter themed rides and rollercoasters.

However, perhaps the biggest triumph Harry Potter has achieved since it first became a part of British culture 20 years ago, is that it inspired millions of children across the world to pick up a book and read, something easier said than done in the modern age of television and computer games. This has seen J.K. Rowling become the first ever billionaire author, although her charity endeavours has seen her give much of this away.

One of the most famous quotes from the first novel was spoken by Professor McGonagall in the very first chapter: “There will be books written about Harry Potter, every child in our world will know his name.’ Little did J.K. Rowling know that this would turn out to be exactly true.

10 magical things every muggle needs to know about Harry Potter...

• Tom Felton, who played school villain Draco Malfoy originally auditioned for role of Harry Potter • J.K. Rowling was offered the role of Harry’s mother, Lily, but turned it down stating that she would ‘mess it up somehow’ • Daniel Radcliffe, who played Harry, was actually the very last actor to be cast, and he only got the role after a chance encounter with the casting director in a London theatre •

The late, great, Robin Williams actually wanted to be cast as half-giant Rubeus Hagrid but was rejected with Rowling insisting all Hogwarts staff members had to be played by British actors

•

Alan Rickman who played potions master Severus Snape was the only other person in the world who knew the fate of his character before the release of the final book.

Rowling told him as she believed it would help Rickman in his portrayal of the character on screen

• The ‘T’ in Voldermort should actually be silent but the film producers were unaware of this when they began filming and it was too late to change the pronunciation • Daniel Radcliffe broke 80 wands over the 11 years he played Harry. He also had his scar painted on 5,800 times and went through 160 pairs of glasses in the final movie alone • Both ‘quidditch’ and ‘muggle’ have officially been entered into the Oxford Dictionary • To match Harry’s green eyes producers gave Daniel Radcliffe some special contact lenses but they had to stop using them after he suffered a severe allergic reaction • The actor, Hero Fiennes-Tiffin, who played Tom Riddle/ Voldermort as a boy, is actually Ralph Fiennes’ nephew

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London Theatre Guide Enjoy a great night out - there’s something for everyone Between comedy, drama, musicals and classic operas, the 2017 autumn/winter theatre scene is set to bring joy into the hearts of both seasoned theatre lovers and those new to the world of stage production.

Our autumn/winter 2017 theatre guide contains titles from every genre, and brings names from large and small companies alike, to ensure that everyone has a chance to see something they love this year.

Matthew Bourne’s Cinderella Where: Sadler’s Wells, EC1R When: Saturday 9 December – Saturday 27 January 2018 The classic fairy-tale is brought to life by award winning choreographer Sir Matthew Bourne. An interpretation which reimagines the story as a war-time romance. Cinderella meets her soulmate, a charming RAF pilot and they spend enough time together to fall in love, before the Blitz separates them.

Olivier-Award winning lighting designer Neil Austin takes charge of the lighting, whilst costumes and sets are left in the more-than-capable hands of production and costume designer Lez Brotherston. With a pre-recorded 60-piece orchestra score by Prokoviev, the story is delivered in surround-sound, bringing the sights and sounds of war-torn London to life.

Tickets start at £34 per person.

Rodelinda Where: London Coliseum, WC2N When: Thursday 26 October – Wednesday 15 November Fearing the loss of her social status and husband, titular character Rodelinda marries the man who betrayed her husband amid threats to murder her son. The operatic drama delivers the harrowing and dramatic story of her husband’s imprisonment and their attempts to reunite.

The Handel opera is delivered in English, with subtitles projected above the stage.

Tickets start from £12 per person.

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Young Frankenstein Where: Garrick Theatre, WC2H When: Thursday 28 September 2017 – Saturday 10 February 2018 Mel Brooks collaborates with award-winning choreographer and Broadway director, Susan Stroman to deliver this classic monster musical comedy. The all-singing, all-dancing Young Frankenstein will have audiences of all ages laughing, singing and tapping their feet. Guaranteed to being a smile to everyone’s face.

Tickets start at £20 per person.

Jekyll & Hyde Where: The Ambassadors Theatre, WC2H When: Wednesday 27 September – Wednesday 6 December Robert Louis Stevenson’s novella once again lights up the stage as playwright Evan Placey (Girls Like That, Consensual) puts his spin on the events of Jekyll & Hyde. With awardwinning director Alexander Weise at the helm, the National Youth Theatre takes the audience on a journey through Victorian England, exploring the clashes between upper and lower societal classes, for an all-new twist on a classic tale of secrets, revenge and deceit.

Prices start at £12.50

Disney’s The Lion King

Dream Girls

Where: Lyceum Theatre London, WC2E When: Tuesday – Sunday every week until Sunday 3 December

Where: Savoy Theatre, WC2R When: Monday – Saturday until Saturday 10 February

Follow Simba as he leaves his playful childhood behind, facing hardship and isolation, as he grows up to take his rightful place as King of the Pridelands.

Dream Girls’ original Broadway production was a groundbreaking theatrical moment when it hit theatres some 35 years ago. Now the UK and West End can experience the acclaimed, Tony award winning musical up close.

Disney’s multi-award-winning musical has redefined the limits of theatrical performance. Bringing the Serengeti Plains and rhythms of Africa alive through set design and composition like no other, director Julie Taymor brings her re-imagined story to life through brilliant colours, fantastic music and stunning effects.

Tickets start at £27.50 per person.

No Such Thing as a Fish Where: New Wimbledon Theatre, SW19 When: Monday 27 November From their massively successful podcast, Dan Schreiber, Andrew Hunter Murray, Anna Ptaszynski and James Harkin have developed a stage version of their take on the news and events of the week before the show. Every show brings something different and there’s no telling just what they will find in the run up to the show. So, sit back, relax and get ready to laugh, smile and be amazed during No Such Thing as a Fish’s first stop on their UK tour.

Prices start at £20.90 for general admission, £18 for Theatre Card holders.

Oslo Where: Harold Pinter Theatre, SW1Y When: Saturday 30 September – Saturday 30 December Fresh from a critically-acclaimed Broadway run, this multiaward-winning production lands at the Harold Pinter Theatre for a limited season.

The production has been nominated for five Olivier awards and is directed and choreographed by Casey Nicholaw, known for Book of Mormon, Aladdin and Something Rotten! It follows the trials and tribulations following the girl group ‘The Dreams’ as they try to make their way in the industry, featuring classic hits such as ‘And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going’, ‘I Am Changing’, ‘Listen’ and ‘One Night Only’.

Ticket prices start at £20 per person.

Fat Friends – The Musical (Touring) Where: Dartford Orchard When: Monday 9 April – Saturday 14 April 2018 Champions Celebrity Talent Management star, Sam Bailey, stars in Fat Friends -The Musical as it tours the country in early 2018. With Kay Mellor’s hit TV sitcom adapted for the stage, fans can look forward to reacquainting themselves with Betty, Lauren, Kelly and the rest of the Super Slimmers as they battle their way through dieting and weight loss.

With Mellor’s fantastic writing and music by composer Nicholas Lloyd Webber, this show is set to take the UK by storm and have audiences laughing until they cry during the tour which sees the show visit many prestigious theatres around the UK. Tickets start at £17.50 per person.

Oslo follows the journey of two individuals, the relationship and communications of who led to the moment when Israeli and Palestinian leaders met to shake hands on the lawn of the Whitehouse.

Oslo is presented by The Lincoln Center Theater, which has been produced in association with Ambassador Theatre Group/ Scott Delman Tickets start at £18 each.

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Royal romance

Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip celebrate 70 years of wedded bliss Over the course of her 65 years on the throne, Queen Elizabeth II has seen many poignant milestones and 2017 marks, perhaps, the most special of them all. On 20 November Her Majesty and husband Prince Phillip, Duke of Edinburgh will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary.

The couple first met in 1934 at the wedding of Philip’s cousin, Princess Marina of Greece where, the then Princess Elizabeth fell in love with her future husband. They then began corresponding by writing letters to one another, and became engaged in secret in 1946, the announcement was made public on 9 July 1947.

Marrying at Westminster Abbey, where some 64 years later Kate and Wills tied the knot, interest in the Royal wedding was international. The ceremony was broadcast to 200 million people worldwide with the happy couple receiving more than 2,500 wedding presents and 10,000 telegrams from wellwishers. Just five years later Elizabeth’s father King George VI sadly passed away. Becoming Queen Elizabeth II in 1952, her coronation took place a year later and the couple have established themselves as an integral part of the British way of life.

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The last seven decades have not been without their challenges. From the very outset Queen Elizabeth II and Phillip had to overcome hurdles including the Duke’s Greek heritage. He was forced to abandon his Greek and Danish titles and was announced as a British subject prior to the wedding to fall in line with protocol.

The couple’s relationship has seen four children, eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren to date, with the Royal family remaining as popular as ever, something that is down to the stable and solid foundations Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip have provided over the years.

To celebrate, a special black-tie banquet will be held at Windsor Castle followed by a celebratory service of thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey, the setting for many Royal celebrations over the years.

ance

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BRINGING YOU CHRISTMAS SPIRIT FOR MORE THAN 150 YEARS For many of us, Christmas shopping is a big part of the festive season and many of London’s most prestigious retailers go above and beyond with their festive window displays to try and maximise their share of this billion-pound market.

If you find yourself walking along Brompton Road in Knightsbridge over the Christmas period, the chances are you won’t be able to miss one store’s display...

2009

Since it arrived on Knightsbridge in 1834, Harrods has become something of a British institution, and is now one of the world’s most luxurious department stores. From humble beginnings as a haberdashery the store now has seven floors, 33 departments and sees 15 million people walk through its doors each year.

Harrods follow the yellow brick road!

Based on the popular family film The Wizard of Oz, the Harrods’ display was complete with huge 3D glittery red slippers emerging from the shop’s walls. It certainly had the ‘wow’ factor and was complete with a tinman, lion and scarecrow as it sought to capture the spirit of the Emerald City.

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When Charles Henry Harrod first opened the store, in his wildest dreams he couldn’t have imagined the impact his shop would have on the world of retail. From clothes, to medicines and even exotic animals, (President Ronald Regan once purchased an elephant from Harrods!), over the years Harrods has stocked it all.

In keeping with its reputation as a luxury department store, when it comes to Christmas- Harrods knows how to impress.

Along with stocking everything to make Christmas magical, Harrods is also famed for its Christmas window displays. In recent years the store has focused its window designs on a number of different festive themes, taking inspiration from both popular culture and tradition. Popular since the 1970s on the UK’s High Street, check out our run down of some of Harrods’ most impressive displays...

2010

A sprinkle of fairy dust

Harrods continued their movie theme in 2010 with a Peter Pan style window display. The window included an array of intricately pirate ships, mermaids and buried treasure. Taking inspiration from the fantasy world of Neverland the window captured the imagination of passers-by of all ages.

2011

Walking in a

Winter Wonderland 2011 saw a Winter Wonderland theme as the store teamed up with crystal manufacturers Swarovski to create an icy forest scene complete with crystallised trees and model swans. Designers Ralph & Russo also provided stunning dresses to be worn by the mannequins which included a dress with over 150,000 Swarovski crystals.

Designer princesses A year later Harrods tapped into the popularity of Disney and came up with a window dedicated to some of their most famous characters. With a different princess in each section of the window, designers such as Versace, Escada and Oscar de la Renta made the characters’ dresses.

Cinderella, Snow White and Rapunzel all featured in the display, as each designer offered their unique twist on these classic fairytales.

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BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

2013

All aboard the Harrods Express!

The theme in 2013 focused on glitz and glamour and saw the ‘Harrods Express’ take shoppers on a magical journey. The special steam train spread across several windows and was beautifully decorated with thousands of lights illuminating the scene. Taking 50 staff members a staggering 500 hours to complete, the scene also included mannequin ‘guests’ on the train wearing the latest luxury fashion trends. One of the dresses exhibited in the window was worth an astonishing £80,000 as Harrods put on their most expensive Christmas window to-date.

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2014

The Land of make believe

INSPIRATIONAL.LONDON

In 2014, Harrods made history creating their first ever animated film. Titled ‘The Land of Make Believe’ the twominute video followed the story of white mice who working as Santa’s helpers and saw them discover the history behind the famous Christmas lights which decorate the store each year.

As well as this, some of the country’s most famous fashion designers including Stella McCartney and Matthew Williamson dressed the windows’ mannequins. The window design saw some of the store’s most popular products displayed in what was described as “a contemporary take on tradition set against a Scandinavian landscape of silver birch trees, ice-blue skies and snowdrifts”.

Magical marionettes

2015

Harrods followed up 2014’s spectacle with magical marionettes and an accompanying video. Taking inspiration from venetian puppet shows and traditional pantomimes, big brands including Chanel, Dior, Stella McCartney and Burberry all contributed their high-end products to the windows. Hansel and Gretel also made an appearance with luxury cake designer Rosalind Miller contributing a large-scale gingerbread house.

Interactive fairytales Harrods’ biggest year yet!

2016

Last year Harrods teamed up with Burberry in a campaign that took nine months to prepare. The theme was ‘A Very British Fairytale’ and included flying cars, secret passageways and floating bathtubs. They once again made history by including the store’s first ever sensory window. Customers were able to interact with the window changing lighting, sound effects and music by touching certain sections.

2016 also saw a Harrods Christmas tree installed in London’s Hans Crescent for the first time ever which took a staggering 12 hours to install.

Harrods continues to delight shoppers with their Christmas windows, and plans are underway for the 2017 edition! At the time of writing the 2017 theme was yet to be revealed but Harrods are sure to surpass all expectations delighting the capital’s shoppers once again.

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IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

The ultimate trackday experience with

Motorsport continues to be one of the most popular sports in Britain, with many people across the country spending their time watching supercars hurtle around a track in one of the world’s most adrenalin filled sports.

Kelvin and Martin are both part of UltraTek Racing Team RJN in the GT4 classification of the 2017 British GT Championship and are well placed to offer their support and advice to drivers tackling the circuit.

Those wanting to experience the same high-speed thrills can enjoy a track day. Whether as a way to engage with clients, offer a treat to employees, or simply to enjoy a day with friends, Velocity Trackdays have put themselves at the front of the starting grid when it comes to the perfect track day, perfect for both corporate and social occasions.

Speaking on the Velocity Trackdays experience, Martin said: “What makes us different to other track days, is that we aim to give our clients an experience, as well as help them develop and improve their driving. It isn’t just about sending people out on a race track in a car. We will assess their skills and give them pointers and benchmarks to reach, which means at the end of the day they will have learned something.”

Able to offer a bespoke service which tailors the track days to the client, Velocity Trackdays’ experienced and dedicated team are committed to making sure the experience lives long in the memory of their clients.

The Velocity team are made up of three individuals whose passion and drive for the industry is unrivalled. These include Le Mans winner, Indy 500 racer and the 2013 FIA World Endurance champion, Martin Plowman, Emmerdale actor turned racing star, Kelvin Fletcher, and international motorsport manager, Ben Snowdon. Together, the trio are able to help people get to grips with a range of different motors, from supercars such as the 650bhp Lamborghini and McLaren 570 to their very own Nissan 350Z GT4 which has proved a favourite with track day guests.

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These driving skills are assessed through the use of a driving simulator which provides a comprehensive breakdown of each individual’s driving experience.

Velocity’s cars come with equipped with data loggers which are then used for driver development to help people become familiar with the track, it also shows them valuable statistics and data including breaking time, and overall speeds to help them improve their performance. This all adds to the unique service Velocity Trackdays provide and it’s little wonder that some of their returning clients have even expressed an interest in pursuing a motorsport career of their own.

Kelvin said: “Some people have approached us about the next

Martin Plowman and Kelvin Fletcher steps of getting into racing. It can be difficult to know where to start when first getting into a new sport whereas we can act as that introductory point and give advice and consultancy as well as provide information on championships to join. The responses we get from clients is always positive, when they get out of the cars they are euphoric and full of adrenalin which is great to see.”

He continued: “We always engage with our clients and care about their experience, if they enjoy it the more we enjoy it.

For many people in this industry the car is the star, but for us it’s a vehicle people drive around in and our customers are the stars. We use the same ethos from our racing team UltraTek, and bring it to our track days, and we are all about driving with passion and style.”

Martin and Kelvin are not the only famous faces on board with Velocity Trackdays. Rock band drummer, Neil Primrose, from the band Travis has worked as a guest instructor. They also have an ARDS driving instructor on board, Stephen Johansen, meaning clients are taught by the some of the best possible professionals in the industry.

As well as offering people the chance to get behind the wheel, the entire day can be made special with the help of Velocity’s expert chef who can provide a fine dining experience and a Champagne reception, once guests have stepped off the track.

Offering a truly immersive experience, Velocity always go above and beyond to put on the perfect track day which in the past has seen them include personalised flags and banners, gourmet food and drink and even chauffeur guests to and from the circuit in high class Mercedes saloon cars.

Not restricted to just one speciality, Velocity Trackdays can also provide a wide range of services across the industry.

They are able to provide marketing and management services including consultancy, racing career support and film and video services for drivers at all levels.

So, whatever your expectations when it comes to track days, Velocity can put your needs on pole position ensuring a memorable day for all your guests.

For more information on all of the services Velocity Trackdays provide, contact them on

info@velocitytrackdays.co.uk | www.velocitytrackdays.co.uk | 0115 888 8388 AUTUMN/WINTER 2017 ISSUE 4

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HOW A GALAXY

FAR FAR AWAY continues to delight audiences 40 years on…

“May the force be with you” is one of cinema’s most famous quotes and when George Lucas created his own space adventure story in the early 1970s he could not have imagined the impact his creation would have on the world.

40 years ago, Star Wars: Episode IV- A New Hope was released capturing the imagination of a generation and the franchise has been delighting audiences everywhere ever since.

The iconic lightsabers, spaceships and loveable characters have become a major part of the world of cinema and the cultural impact the films have had can truly be felt across the globe. With action figures and merchandise commonplace in virtually every country on the planet, a lot has changed since we first saw the likes of Harrison Ford, Mark Hammill and Carrie Fisher on screen in 1977. The UK’s Ealing, Elstree, Leavesden, Pinewood and Shepperton studios are where most of the films were shot and the British influence in the films cannot be ignored. There was also a large amount of British cast members in the films, most notably Anthony Daniels and Kenny Baker who played lovable droids C-3PO and R2-D2.

The first Star Wars blockbuster became the highest grossing film of all time and focused on a civil war in a fictional galaxy between a rebel alliance and a galactic empire controlled by the evil Darth Vader and Emperor Palpatine. The original trilogy is comprised of three movies A New Hope (1977) which focuses on Luke Skywalker, a farmer on the planet of Tatooine who after meeting Obi-Wan Kenobi discovers that his father used to be a Jedi knight. Becoming friends with Han Solo and Chewbacca the group go about rescuing Princess Leia from the clutches of the evil empire and Darth Vader.

The second movie The Empire Strikes Back (1980) sees Luke discover his true heritage and begin his Jedi training alongside the legendary Jedi master Yoda. The film delivered one of the greatest movie moments of all time when Luke discovered that Darth Vader was his father, a scene that has become synonymous with the franchise over the years.

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Return of the Jedi (1983) was the final film in the original trilogy and saw a final confrontation between the rebels led

by Luke and Han Solo and the empire. The film saw Luke and Leia discover they were twin brother and sister and as good overcame evil, saw Darth Vader turn away from the dark side by saving Luke from the Emperor and sacrifice himself to defeat the empire.

The original trilogy grossed over $1.8 billion worldwide and perhaps more valuably created a legion of loyal fans. Following the release of Return of the Jedi in 1983 there was talk that a sequel trilogy would shortly follow. However, in 1987 George Lucas said he had no plans to return to the franchise instead turning his attentions to other projects. This changed in 1993, when it was announced that whilst a sequel trilogy would not be happening Lucas had been persuaded to begin work writing a prequel trilogy which would be set 32 years prior to the events in A New Hope and focus on Anakin Skywalker’s descent to the dark side.

In 1999 Star Wars: Episode I-The Phantom Menace was released and was a smash hit at the box office raking in $1billion.

Two more prequels followed: Attack of the Clones (2002) and Revenge of the Sith (2005). However, despite the financial success of the films they fell victim to criticism by fans and critics alike.

While this could have marked the end of the Star Wars legacy in 2012 the film rights were purchased by Disney in a deal believed to be worth around $4billion. Following this announcement, the sequel trilogy, first mentioned by Lucas over 30 years previously, would finally be made. Despite being based on Lucas’ ideas it was also confirmed he would have no involvement in these new movies.

Much to fans delight the new films would see Harrison Ford, Mark Hammill and Carrie Fisher reprise the roles they had left behind 32 years previously. In 2015 Star Wars: Episode VII- The Force Awakens was released combining old characters with new. Directed by self-confessed Star Wars fan and former

Star Trek director J.J. Abrams the film was both a critical and commercial success. Taking home $2billion at the box office The Force Awakens was 2015’s most successful film.

The next edition of the franchise, Star Wars: Episode VIII- The Last Jedi is due for a December 2017 release with the final edition of the sequel trilogy due out in 2019. Sadly, Carrie Fisher who portrays Leia Organa (Princess Leia) in the films passed away during production of The Last Jedi and the film will have a dedication in her honour.

With an ever-expanding universe, the franchise has also recently produced a standalone film, Rogue One which was released in 2016. The film follows the journey of rebel Jyn Erso (Brit actress Felicity Jones) as she tries to steal the plans of the Death Star which plays such a vital role in the subsequent films. A yet untitled Han Solo origin story has also been announced for a 2018 release, and there seems to be no signs of stopping beyond the sequel trilogy with Disney CEO Bob Iger stating that they had Star Wars content planned into the 2030s.

The cultural impact of the Star Wars franchise cannot be ignored, with theme park attractions in both Florida and China. A new Star Wars theme park is currently undergoing construction with a 2019 opening date.

Beyond this, there is a children’s animated television series called The Clone Wars and several newly discovered organisms have been named after Star Wars characters (including the Chewbacca wasp!)

There has even been a religion created based on the films called Jediism which is based on a spiritual code as demonstrated by the Force in the films. Followers of the religion abide by the 16 Jedi teachings as seen in the films and in the 2001 census 0.7% of the people of Brighton classified themselves as Jedi more than Sikhism, Judaism and Buddhism.

A trip through the light years Star Wars past, present and future...

ORIGINAL TRILOGY A New Hope The Empire Strikes Back Return of the Jedi

(1977) (1980) (1983)

PREQUEL TRILOGY The Phantom Menace Attack of the Clones Revenge of the Sith

(1999) (2002) (2005)

SEQUEL TRILOGY The Force Awakens The Last Jedi Untitled-Episode IX

(2015) (2017) (2019)

ANTHOLOGY FILMS Rogue One Solo: A Star Wars Story Untitled Anthology film

(2016) (2018) (2020)

TELEVISION SERIES The Clone Wars Rebels Forces of Destiny

(2008-2014) (2014-present) (2017-present)

With plenty of Star Wars still to come over the coming years the franchise is sure to continue to capture the imagination of the next generation as well as continuing to delight its existing fans.

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IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

y p e S Th d e v o We L

Remembering Sir Roger Moore Earlier this year, the world mourned the loss of the longestrunning James Bond actor, Sir Roger Moore, who starred in seven consecutive Bond movies, raking in just under $1.2 billion for the franchise. Now, we take the opportunity to look back and celebrate his impressive career and tumultuous life.

James Bond legend Credited with the reinvention of the James Bond character, from the cold-blooded killer of the books and previous films, to the gadget-adorned playboy with endless one-liners and wit, Roger Moore’s legacy will live on forever.

Charismatic Moore’s first foray into the world of 007 came in 1964, when he made a guest appearance for a comedy skit in Millicent Martin’s BBC series Mainly Millicent, as James Bond. Following this casting, Moore did not believe he would be considered to play the part in the film franchise, as Sean Connery continued to portray the secret agent throughout the first five features. Sir Roger only began to consider that he could be cast as Bond when Connery stepped down from the franchise in 1966. He was finally approached in 1972, following the release of Diamonds are Forever, which was Sean Connery’s final appearance in the role.

Sir Roger Moore played 007 for a total of seven films, filming for the franchise throughout his 40s and 50s and retiring from the role at the age of 58 following the release of A View to a Kill in 1985. This makes Moore the oldest actor to have played the part.

Whilst both Moore and Connery played the character for a total of seven films, Moore has the title of longest-running Bond actor, as he held the role for 12 consecutive years, whilst Connery ran for five years, with two further films following independently. Although, Daniel Craig will surpassed this milestone when his final Bond film is released in 2019.

A chance breakthrough Born in 1927, Sir Roger Moore was an only child who was evacuated from his hometown of Stockwell, London to

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Holsworthy, Devon during the Second World War. He was an apprentice at an animation studio until a mistake involving animation cells resulted in his termination.

His entrance into the world of entertainment happened by chance when his policeman father investigated a robbery at director Brian Hurst’s home. Brian was seeking extras for his film, Caesar and Cleopatra at the time and cast Moore after being introduced to him by his father. During filming, Hurst watched Moore’s female fan base grow exponentially and offered to pay for Moore to study at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. During his three terms at RADA, Roger developed the relaxed demeanour and mid-western accent which became staples of his characterisation of James Bond.

Before embracing the Hollywood lifestyle, Moore was conscripted and commissioned as a second lieutenant into the Royal Army Corps. He combined his love of entertainment and his army service as an officer in the Combined Service Entertainment Section, working his way up to the rank of Captain.

Breaking into the industry After his role in Caesar and Cleopatra, Moore expand his portfolio in the late 1940’s as a model, appearing in various print advertisements for knitwear, toothpastes and other products. In 1949, he made his first television appearance in the 1949 TV movie, The Governess.

In the early years of his career, Moore struggled to land any prominent parts, in 1954 he signed a seven-year contract with MGM, but was released from it after just two, as none of the films he was cast in during those years came to any success.

Despite this frustration, Moore was determined to keep going.

In the years following his release from MGM, Sir Roger landed a range of single-episode appearances on TV before accepting a long-term contract with Warner Brothers Studios in 1959.

This contract led to Moore landing the lead role in the play, The Miracle. This was followed by an appearance in an episode of The Third Man, before being cast as Orson Welles in the film version of Welles’ life story.

From 1958 to 1972, he held recurring roles in five television series, including his seven-year run as Simon Templar in The Saint and in The Persuaders! Both of which saw him dabble in producing and directing alongside his acting responsibilities.

Life beyond Bond Moore’s big screen success was not limited to Bond and his impressive range of facial expressions, in fact he starred in a range of other successful films, including Sherlock Holmes in New York, Escape to Athena and Curse of the Pink Panther.

Following A View to a Kill, Moore had parts in a further 11 films, including Spice World and Cats & Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore. Throughout his career, Sir Roger earned seven acting awards, including the now retired, Henrietta (World Film Favorite – Male) Golden Globe.

In 1991, inspired by the work of his good friend, Audrey Hepburn, Moore became a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and thirteen years later, he lent his voice to the part of Father Christmas in The Fly Who Loved Me, a cartoon released by UNICEF in 2004. Moore was also an active voice on behalf of animal welfare charity PETA, narrating a video protesting against the production and wholesale of foie gras, which led to the removal of the product from the shelves of Selfridges.

Throughout his career, Sir Roger earned five charity awards, including his CBE alongside nine lifetime achievement awards, including a star on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame and Commander of the French National Order of Arts and Letters.

Sir Roger received his knighthood in 2003, the honour was bestowed by HRH Queen Elizabeth II to acknowledge his charitable work for more than ten years prior.

Moore’s private life was often as colourful as his on-screen personas. He and Mr. Bond shared a reputation for being womanisers, with Moore ending three marriages before settling with his “soul mate” Kristina Tholstrup. Moore has three children and two granddaughters. His step-daughter, Kristina’s only child from a previous relationship, died tragically at the age of 47 in 2016 after battling cancer.

Whilst Sir Roger Moore’s memory is sure to live on in the films he starred in, his loving family and the legacy he leaves behind, there is no question that he defined Bond for a generation and that the silver screen will be duller for his absence.

A View to a Thrill: Five Unforgettable Roger Moore Bond Moments Octopussy fight scene: Showcasing his on-screen fighting skills, Sir Roger brilliantly portrayed his character in this scene which was packed with spinning blades.

Acting the Muppet: In 1980, Sir Roger Moore guest-starred in The Muppet Show as James Bond, where his karate-chop moves and romantic encounter with Miss Piggy left a lasting impression.

Wedding crashing: In 1985’s A View to a Kill, Moore careers a taxi through the streets of Paris – narrowly avoiding many obstacles – apart from a wedding cake.

‘Something came up’: In 1977’s The Spy Who Loved Me, he delighted viewers with a thrilling opening scene involving skis, hidden weaponry and a Union Jack parachute.

The Santa Clause: 1981’s For Your Eyes Only features an epic scene in which Moore’s Bond takes over a rogue helicopter and confronts his nemesis – he then sends him off in true Christmas fashion – down a chimney.

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BEAUTY, IT’S A MAN’S HEALTH WORLD AND LIFESTYLE

In your element…

Beat the winter chill this season by investing in statement pieces that will see you keep warm without compromising on style. Layering up is always a great idea at this time of year so opt for knitted, natural materials such as from woollen jumpers and fur-trimmed parka winter coats. This will make your look effortlessly stylish.

Clinique at selfridges.com

Of course, don’t forget those all-important accessories, from panelled leather trainers to suede boots for relaxed weekends and a statement watch and wallet, those extra details will tie your look together and see you in your element this winter season.

£32.50

Anti-age eye cream

Mulberry at selfridges.com Grained leather card holder

£100

Viktor & Rolf at johnlewis.com BEATS BY DRE at selfridges.com

Spicebomb eau de toilette 90ml

£67.50

Solo 2.0 luxe edition headphones

£169.99

Canada Goose at harveynichols.com Citadel dark blue fur-trimmed parka

Paul Smith at selfridges.com Artist stripe cotton socks

£17

£990

Hugo Boss at selfridges.com Regualr fit cotton shirt pastel blue

£89

Office at office.co.uk Gamble boot

£74.99 66 |

INSPIRATIONAL.LONDON

Go to our NEW website inspirational.london/gift-guide to see more

Gant at houseoffraser.co.uk

Veuve Clicquot at selfridges.com

Grey crew neck cable knit jumper

Champagne 750ml

£110

£51.99

Giuseppe Zanotti at selfridges.com Panelled leather and suede trainers

£500

Vivienne Westwood at harveynichols.com

Barbour at barbour.com

Ecru piqué cotton polo shirt

Wax holdall

£130

£149

Aspinal of London at harrods.com Classic 5oz mock crocodile hip flask

£49

Apple at johnlewis.com River Island at riverisland.com Puppytooth suit jacket

Apple Watch Series 2, 38mm gold aluminium case with sport band

£369

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IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

THE ULTIMATE IN BESPOKE TAILORING… A well-made, well-fitting suit says a lot about a man. It says he knows quality, it says he knows style and perhaps most importantly, it says he knows what he wants.

Newland Tailoring is a bespoke personal tailor serving clients across the UK, matching them with their sartorial style. Joel Newland, owner and founder of Newland Tailoring, noticed the demand for a bespoke suit but understood first-hand what it’s like to be time-poor, so throughout the years he has perfected his service of bringing first-class tailoring to a client’s home or office.

Joel’s team of tailors, our service and expertise extends to Birmingham, Nottingham, Derby, Leicester, Coventry and London, and who go beyond creating stylish bespoke garments, becoming confidants and friends, taking the time to get to know a client’s way of life.

As for the garments themselves? They are made from the finest quality fabrics, which can be hand-selected by the client from an extensive choice.

One man, one event and the ultimate suit One man who has embraced the ultimate tailoring experience is Managing Director of the IM Group, Andrew Edmiston.

Joel and Andrew met in 2006, when rather bravely, Joel knocked on Andrew’s door, handed him a Newland Tailoring coat hanger and asked for Andrew’s time to present his tailoring business – and the rest, as they say, is history.

11 years later and Joel has made perhaps the most significant business suit he’s ever made for Andrew – the one he made to celebrate IM Group’s 40th anniversary at a packed event at London’s 02 arena.

Having designed and fitted more than 20 suits for Andrew, the pair were confident on the fit, but Andrew required a completely hand-stitched suit that would reflect the prestige of the event and make an impact under the bright stage lighting. The result was a flattering two-piece created with super 200s cloth and constructed with thousands of hand stitches.

Speaking of the Newland Tailoring experience, Andrew said: “When Joel visits it really is like having Savile Row in your front room, just a better quality of service.”

Newland Tailoring truly cater for the man that knows the importance of a quality suit, with every garment representing great value with tailoring that looks great, feels great and lasts.

For more information about the unique tailoring service visit www.newlandtailoring.com 68 |

INSPIRATIONAL.LONDON

Ta i l o r i n g • A f t e r c a r e

Into the groove-how

Vinyl is making a comeback From that unmistakable distortion as the needle hits its groove to the packaging and the record itself, music fans everywhere agree - there is just something about vinyl.

Since its heyday in the 1980s, vinyl sales have been in decline, unable to compete with the size, sound and portability that CDs offered. However, it seems in recent years that both older generations, who remember vinyl from the first time around, and younger music fans are discovering the joy vinyl can bring.

In what is, perhaps, the greatest comeback in music, in recent years vinyl’s return to favour has been impressive, with music fans keen to get their hands on these slices of musical history.

In many ways, vinyl is an unlikely format to make a comeback – it is fragile, requires specialist equipment, is more expensive than other sources and requires effort from the listener. And yet, vinyl sales continue to rise. So, what is it about vinyl records that saw 3.2 million of us in 2016 alone purchase one?

Inspirational London explores some reasons behind this retro resurgence…

Nostalgia… in this digital age, where it can seem that almost everything is digitalised, it can be refreshing to hark back to the past, and vinyl does this beautifully.

Collector appeal… original, mint condition vinyl can command huge sums from record collectors around the world making vinyl a worthy investment.

Experience the concept… before we all started downloading single tracks and creating our own playlists, there was a time where artists made albums to be listened to in their entirety, in the order they laid down. With vinyl, moving around from track to track is a hassle, meaning listeners have to sit back and listen to the whole album – fillers an’ all.

Artwork… with so few of us actually owning a physical copy of our music these days, the joy of album cover art is being lost, not to mention the pleasure of opening an album to find song lyrics and rambling thank yous from the artist(s).

Buying experience… while downloading tracks or streaming them is convenient, it requires little effort. With vinyl however, music fans have to work a little harder and it is this experience that vinyl aficionadas love. From trawling car boot sales to visiting independent record shops, the act of flicking through album after album to discover that must-have gem is addictive.

The Vinyl Countdown

r favourite format…

Five funky facts about ou chart was first-ever weekly vinyl 1. In 2015, the UK’s nce. yl has found a new audie launched, proof that vin ) has been d Save the Queen (1977 2. The Sex Pistols’ Go e by llectible record of all tim named as the most co ctor magazine. experts at Record Colle came The e Beatles before they be 3. The Quarrymen’s (Th Day/In the be ll release of ‘That’ Beatles) 1958 original 00,000! £1 d ate is worth an estim Spite of all the Danger’ ’s largest ro Freitas, has the world 4. Brazilian tycoon, Ze records to date! collection – six million national day d ‘Record Store Day’ a rke ma 17 20 ril Ap 22 5. s. ependent record shop celebrating the UK’s ind AUTUMN/WINTER 2017 ISSUE 4

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club wembley Club Wembley Memberships available now from ÂŁ999 (inc VAT) per season.

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For more information call our team 0800 783 1440 or visit clubwembley.com

member ship tier s Your own private haven with views and service that will take your breath away.

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S U I T E S

Raising The Bar Tottenham Hotspur’s Ground-breaking Premium Offer “We have tried to get people as close to being a Premier League footballer or an NFL star as you possibly can be without actually lacing up a pair of boots.”

Andy O’Sullivan, Tottenham Hotspur Director of Hospitality

Tottenham Hotspur is on the up. It’s hard enough to overlook the on-field exploits of Harry Kane, Dele Alli et al, but, when the 2017/2018 season kicks off, it’ll be impossible to ignore the world class sports and entertainment destination springing up in N17.

So, Inspirational London headed across the capital to get the inside track. As well as a 360-degree virtual tour of the new stadium.

Shrewd investment in the playing squad and a long-term commitment to youth development, not to mention Mauricio Pochettino’s high energy approach, mean things look promising on the football front.

However, on-field, success only tells part of the story.

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INSPIRATIONAL.LONDON

The new 61,559 seater stadium being built by the eight-time FA Cup winners on the approximate site of their will erstwhile White Hart Lane home, will raise the bar on premium sporting hospitality, by several notches.

The club knows it’s in the entertainment business. Sport and football sit at the heart of that endeavour, of course, but, through the lens of our digital walk-through in the club’s media suite, it’s clear the board very much understands it sells experiences.

To Dare Is To Do Tasked with transforming those experiences are Populous.

Working closely with the Club’s Director of Hospitality, Andy O’Sullivan, the design practice behind the London 2012 Olympic Stadium and a host of the world’s most iconic stadia is delivering on Tottenham Hotspur’s vision.

The acoustically optimised cauldron of the arena will be all about atmosphere. It features a single tier stand that, with 17,500 seats, will be the UK’s biggest and rival Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium for noise.

Fans of American football are in for a treat, too. In addition to year-round music concerts, the new stadium will play host to two NFL games per season, thanks to a retractable grass pitch revealing an artificial gridiron surface beneath.

There are other imperatives at play behind the scenes. Taking premium hospitality to the next level chief among them. Andy set out a design philosophy anchored in the principles of choice, opportunity and attention to detail. Plus, a little bit of the style one might expect from Tottenham Hotspur.

“We are creating something absolutely unique, a range of premium experiences that go beyond anything seen before in the UK and compete with any venue at the global level.

The innovation involved is incredible. It’s been applied to almost every space in the stadium, focusing on what else each area can offer in adding real value for our fans.

All that creativity will give our lounge members and suite holders the chance to redefine each visit they make. Making that choice a reality has been a key driver of the whole project.

I think we’re right to be ambitious. It’s very much in keeping with our motto – To Dare Is To Do.” Style & Substance Our experience began at Lilywhite House, the club’s stateof-the-art headquarters overlooking construction work in its advanced stages.

Andy led us into the media suite, where, tracing the steps of clients already sold on the premium offering, we swept across a virtual London skyline to the new Stadium and its eyeopening interior.

First up was The Tunnel Club. It’s easy to see why this exclusive area was trailed extensively in the press when news emerged. As they dine in industrial elegance, members can watch the comings and goings as players line-up before a game or traipse off for an early bath.

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It’s the kind of place you could imagine finding a Premier League footballer on his night off. Built with access to seating in mind and adding to the realism, you’re just yards away from your Recaro seat behind the home dug-out, part of what the Club calls ‘the largest bench in world football’.

Moving on to The H Club, the décor tips its hat to the club’s historic past, with its authentic ‘H’ badge from the 19th century emblazoned across the floor before you reach the Victorian sophistication of the Luminaire Bar and Mayfair-style opulence beyond.

There are five eclectic ways to dine, including an intimate experience hosted by a Club legend and the opportunity to dine at the chef’s table. You can design your own cheeseboard and sommeliers will even hold your favourite tipple in The Vault, ready for a post-match toast.

With a one-off H Club membership fee of £30,000 + VAT and a further £30,000 reserving two seats for the season, you’re in the most exclusive of company.

“Absolutely unique”

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Choice & Opportunity The premium choices on offer at the new Stadium go on. Look at the ‘loge’ suites. Intimate spaces where groups of four, six, eight or ten can enjoy quality food before and after the game.

Andy O’Sullivan explained the logic.

“Our loges have all the privacy and business capabilities of a box but the added networking opportunities and ambience of a high-end restaurant environment. So, they work for all types of businesspeople but they also offer great possibilities for those looking for a family experience.

Our two Sky Lounges, on the other hand, are going to appeal to the affluent millennial market. They’re fully nine floors above each side of the pitch, with panoramic views of the stadium and across the city.

Bathed in natural light, there’ll be live DJs and mixologists on hand to show you how to shake up a cocktail or two. The dining experience up there is a little different again, with tasting bowls and grazing the order of the day.

Offering more choice again, the entry level Lower East Club has a sports bar feel with assisted self-service. In contrast, the Members’ Lounge is an accessible way to breathe in the premium atmosphere and allows guests to upgrade for a restaurant experience.

“To dare is to do” Whichever option fans choose, we don’t just want people in and out of the door for the game. We want guests to come for a long stay and really soak up the experience. There are plenty of premium opportunities to do just that.”

Our visit to Lilywhite House was a revelation. The premium experiences available will send ripples not simply across the world of sport but across the entire entertainment industry.

To Dare Is To Do – and Tottenham Hotspur are well on their way.

BE THERE With premium seats starting from £125 (+VAT) per match, now is the time to register your interest for premium suites, loges, lounges and seats.

To experience the new Stadium in virtual reality, please visit http://new-stadium.tottenhamhotspur.com/be-there/ or call 0330 057 8741 to speak to a member of the team.

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INVICTUS Britain’s military heroes celebrated at Invictus Games 2017 Not many sporting events could get the likes of Queen Elizabeth II and Barack Obama to appear in a promotional video, but then again, the Invictus Games is an event like no other. One of the most inspiring events on the sporting calendar, the Games returned in September for what once again proved to be a wonderful celebration of sport and the military.

The inaugural event was founded by HRH Prince Harry as a multi-sport event which sees wounded, injured or sick ex-servicemen and women compete across a range of sporting disciplines.

When interviewed in June ahead of this year’s Games, Prince Harry talked about how one of the key messages of the Games is how servicemen should not be defined by the injuries they sustained. He said: “They want to prove to the rest of the world that you know what, if I’ve lost a leg, two legs and an arm, or if I’ve been suffering from depression or anxiety for many, many years, no matter who you are, you can fight back from that. I think that is the key message for everybody to take away from Invictus … if you have a second chance in life, to make the absolute most of it.”

In 2014, London was the host of the first ever Invictus Games which saw 300 competitors from 13 different countries take part. Nations who had fought alongside Britain in recent conflicts were invited to compete with the likes of United States, Australia, Afghanistan and many more involved. The inaugural event was a huge success and concluded with a fantastic concert featuring performances from Foo Fighters, James Blunt and Ellie Goulding.

The long-term objective of the Games is to use sport to help with the rehabilitation and recovery of these servicemen and women and to create a wider understanding and respect of the issues these people face. 2017 marks the third edition of the games which took place in Toronto. Venues across the city were used as athletes competed in a range of sports including archery, swimming and cycling.

Prior to the event in September a 37-day Invictus flag tour took place across Canada visiting 22 military bases, 15 legions and 50 communities in an attempt to bring the Games to a wider audience. The event, which saw more countries and athletes compete than ever before with over 500 athletes making the journey to Canada, was opened by a cast of hundreds who put on a stunning show in front of over 19,000 people at the Air Canada Centre. The spectacular event then culminated in the finale of the flag tour which saw the official Invictus Games flag being raised.

The Games were a huge success and one British athlete in particular won the heart of the nation. Former Royal Marine, Mark Ormrod, didn’t stick to just one discipline; winning medals in indoor rowing and swimming. When serving in Afghanistan he was devastatingly injured in a bomb explosion where he lost both his legs and his right arm. In response to his exceptional performances Mark was awarded the ‘Exceptional Performance Award’ by HRH Prince Harry, a special accolade which celebrates the athlete whose performance is considered particularly special.

After a week of truly inspirational sporting activities the curtain came down on the third Invictus Games. World renowned acts including Kelly Clarkson and Bryan Adams performed at the closing ceremony as the Invictus Games were officially passed onto Sydney, Australia who are the 2018 hosts.

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SPOTLIGHT ON

JAMIE WELLER

When Jamie Weller suffered the complete loss of his central vision, the Royal Navy Aircraft Engineer lost more than just the majority of his eyesight. No longer able to pursue his dream of a life in the military, Jamie then faced a battle with depression and anxiety as he tried to rebuild his life and adjust to his disability.

Despite his career coming to a premature end, Jamie used his love for sport as a way to maintain a positive outlook on life.

This September he was a key member of Great Britain’s Invictus Games team. Travelling to Toronto to compete in the sporting event, it was the first time he’d ever competed at the Games. Taking part in both athletics and cycling events, he won a total of four bronze medals.

Including the 100m, 200m and 400m distances in athletics and the tandem event in cycling.

Inspirational London spoke to Jamie about his fantastic achievement and the Invictus Games experience…

What was the highlight of the Games for you?

For me, it has to be my two daughters and my wife being there with me to experience what Invictus is all about. I train really hard and went on camps to prepare, which my family don’t really see, so it was really important for me that they were there alongside me at the Games.

I was also really pleased with my competition results. I’m 47 years old so for me to be running those distances on the track in front of a crowd like that was phenomenal. Although I didn’t win gold I was still happy with my performances, the guys I was up against were Paralympic champions and Iron Man competitors so I think I did well!

What was it like competing alongside athletes from the different nations and learning of their experiences?

One thing that particularly sticks in my mind is competing alongside Michael Lyddiard who won gold in the 100m. Having suffered with PTSD, as well as being visually impaired, he told me before the medal ceremony that his demon was being able to deal with the noise and lights of the opening ceremony. It really made me think that the Games wasn’t about competing, but the whole environment of being together and celebrating our differences and triumphing in the face of adversity.

We are all military and all had that team spirit which was evident when my bike broke down and everyone chipped in to fix it.

What was it like meeting Prince Harry?

He really is just a normal guy. You could tell he was genuinely interested in you and is really passionate about helping the wounded, injured and sick community when it comes to their recovery. We all face different challenges, me with my sight loss and my friend Mark Ormrod who lost both of his legs and one of his arms, so it makes us appreciate what we have got. I don’t like to use the word disability, I will say it’s about the ability we’ve all got.

What was your role in the military?

I worked as an aircraft engineer working on the Sea Harriers, and it was my dream career. From the age of four or five when my dad had a model aircraft, I was always interested in aviation and technology. I always wanted to serve my country so when I lost my sight it meant I couldn’t do that anymore which was devastating.

I have always tried to have a positive outlook and I hope the way I have approached the loss of my sight, which remains a massive challenge, helps inspire other people. I do not let my blindness manage me, I simply see it as an inconvience to work around.

Next year the Games visit Sydney and Jamie has ambitions to continue his good form once again.

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Snow and ice aren’t what you’d normally associate with South Korea but in February this sovereign state will embrace all things winter as the world turns its attention to Pyeongchang and the 23rd edition of the Winter Olympics.

will play host to all of the skiing events and to make sure it was up to scratch, Britain’s most famous skier, Graham Bell, tested the downhill ski course at the Jeongseon Alpine centre as part of his work on BBC’s Ski Sunday.

Over 2,000 athletes from nearly 100 different countries will descend on the South Korean province for what is the first ever Winter Olympics and Paralympics to be held in the country.

Having represented Great Britain at five Winter Olympics, Graham will have a keen eye on proceedings in February and there will be plenty of British interest as Team GB hope to improve upon the four medals they won in Sochi in 2014 (which equalled their record medal haul for the Games).

This was Britain’s most successful performance at a Winter Olympics for 90 years and with plenty of British talent set to hit the cold climes there is no reason why more history cannot be made.

Getting underway on 9 February the Games will commence with a spellbinding opening ceremony at the Pyeongchang Olympic Stadium which seats over 50,000 spectators. The action will also be beamed to millions of people all over the world. Following this, the Winter Paralympics will take place a month later.

Along with marking the first time the Games have been held in South Korea, history will also be made with a record 102 gold medals on offer across 15 different sports-with four disciplines making their debuts. New to the Games is big air snowboarding, mixed doubles curling, mass start speed skating and mixed team alpine skiing.

One of the standout events at every Winter Games is skiing with the races often providing some of the most exciting scenes of the entire competition. The famous Alpensia Resort

In their entire Winter Olympics history, Great Britain have only won 26 medals, tending to perform better at the summer Games. However, a funding boost in recent years has seen a rise in participation with new initiatives and charities being set up in an attempt to get future GB hopefuls to engage in winter sports from a young age.

One of the heroes of the 2014 Games was skeleton competitor Lizzy Yarnold MBE who has gone on to become perhaps one of Britain’s most recognisable Winter Olympians following her victory. Skeleton is arguably one of the most dangerous, but most thrilling, disciplines at the Games. Re-

GRAHAM BELL’S GUIDE TO THE

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introduced in 2002, Britain have traditionally done well in this event medalling every year. Lizzy will be hoping to become the first ever Briton to successfully defend her skeleton title following her 2014 victory.

Success on the snow may have been hard to come by for Team GB but in 2014 Jenny Jones ended 90 years without a medal in snow events when she claimed bronze in the slopestyle snowboard event. Incredibly ambitious about the future of winter sport in this country, The British Ski and Snowboard organisation hope to make Britain a top-five nation in the sport by 2030. There are now several hopefuls who will be in podium contention with Katie Ormerod, Jamie Nicholls, Billy Morgan and Aimee Fuller all taking World Cup medals in the last few years.

As well as the individual events, Britain will also be hoping they can perform well in the team sports- most notably in curling. In 2014 the UK, somewhat surprisingly, fell in love with the game which involves sliding stones on ice into a target area. David Murdoch captained the team to a silver medal in Sochi and Eve Muirhead guided the womens’ team to bronze and in 2018 both will be hoping to build on these achievements. A new gender mixed version of the game has also been included into the Games increasing Team GB’s medal hopes.

As is tradition, the Winter Paralympics will follow a month after the Winter Olympics and as with Olympic team GB, Paralympians will also be hoping to increase their medal haul.

In 2014, they claimed six medals overall but only one of these was gold. Won by visually impaired Kelly Gallagher MBE and her guide Charlotte Evans MBE, Kelly took the top spot with her awe-inspiring super-G alpine skiing.

During the Games, the organisers will also be including a taste of Korean culture in the form of mascots Soohorang and Bandabi. Following a nationwide competition, the South Korean public selected Soohorang a white tiger, an animal that plays a big part in Korean folklore and mythology. Bandabi, is a black bear who will act as the official mascot of the Paralympic Winter Games and is a symbol of strong will, determination and bravery.

The Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games are the pinnacle for all winter sport athletes and both events represent the very best the sports have to offer.

They are a fantastic opportunity for athletes to make a name for themselves and represent their country, as well as providing a platform for sports which may not get the attention they deserve, to be showcased to a large-scale audience. The first time South Korea have hosted an Olympic event since Seoul 1988, the Games will see over a month of the most exhilarating, exciting and adrenalin fuelled sport on the planet.

For more information or to book Graham Bell for your next event please contact Victoria Marconetto-Tyson at vmtyson@championsukplc.com or call 08453 31 30 31

www.championscelebrity.com

YMPICS 2018

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GET THE BEST SEATS IN THE HOUSE

OFFICIAL HOSPITALITY AT EDGBASTON STADIUM

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Edgbaston Stadium is one of the UK’s leading sporting venues which features an array of versatile, modern and luxurious suites that are suitable for any occasion. The venue offers a range of inspiring meeting spaces that will keep your delegates engaged from the moment they arrive to a world renowned international stadium. Our state of the art facilities are the perfect venue for conferences, meetings, awards, weddings, banqueting, exhibition and much more.

Edgbaston has an extensive range of suites and function rooms that cater for corporate events, business meetings and private functions of any size, from four luxurious executive boxes for up to 20 delegates in a boardroom style to an impressive Exhibition Hall which can cater up to 800 delegates in a theatre style. This unique and famous stadium offers fabulous event spaces, stunning views of the legendary pitch and the Birmingham skyline, with packages available to suit all requirements and budgets. Edgbaston is a venue unlike any other in Birmingham!

As well as having an on-site car park, the stadium is ideally located just one mile from the heart of UK’s second city.

The venue is only minutes away from major motorway links, Birmingham’s New Street and Snow Hill train stations, only seven miles from Birmingham International Airport and close to several upscale hotels for your out-of-town guests.

A dedicated, passionate and experienced events team will work with you to deliver a truly unforgettable service and create an event that you and your guests will remember for years to come. We pride ourselves on outstanding service and our passion is to deliver tailored events and a memorable experience for our customers.

The stadium has benefited from a major redevelopment and was awarded ‘Best Venue’ at the prestigious Birmingham Food, Drink and Hospitality Awards in June 2016. It was also crowned Midlands Wedding Venue of the Year at the British Asian Wedding Awards in March 2017.

As well as having an award-winning Executive Head Chef to serve you the finest cuisine, our unique and iconic venue provides an exquisite backdrop with natural daylight and stunning views overlooking the famous Edgbaston pitch.

Edgbaston is fully equipped with all the latest cutting edge AV technology from recommended suppliers which will bring your event to life. To add extra personalisation, you can utilise and brand Edgbaston’s pitch-side scoreboards and stadium TVs. Our facilities are superbly equipped, complete with complimentary robust Wi-Fi, to provide an unforgettable atmosphere.

Day Delegate prices start from just £26.00 + VAT per person.

For more information please call Edgbaston’s Conference and Events team on

0844 635 1902 (option 3) or email

Enquiries@Edgbaston.com

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70 YEARS OF THE ASHES

- the history of sport’s most iconic rivalry November marks the 70th edition of The Ashes, the competition which brings age old rivals-England and Australia together for one of cricket’s fiercest battles. The origins of The Ashes span more than a century with the first ever series won by England in a hard-fought campaign in 1883.

However, the story of The Ashes actually began a year earlier at the Oval in London. A three-day test series saw Australia shock the sporting world by defeating England, who, at the time were considered one of the best cricket teams on the planet.

This led to British newspaper, The Sporting Times publishing a tongue in cheek obituary about ‘the death of English cricket’ where they wrote “the body will be cremated and the ashes taken to Australia.” This was the first time that the term ‘ashes’ was used in association with a cricket match between England and Australia and it has stuck ever since.

Prior to the 1882/83 series which is regarded as the first official Ashes series, England captain, Ivo Bligh had been quoted in the media saying the team was determined to

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“recover those ashes.” The media attention surrounding the series, in an era before social media, was remarkable, with England coming out on top winning 2-1 and reclaiming The Ashes.

And so, The Ashes were born and what followed was a biannual meeting between these two giants of the cricket world with each country taking it in turns to host.

With games taking place in the summers of the respective nations the series has also become a part of Australia’s Christmas traditions with a test played on Boxing Day at the world’s biggest cricket stadium, the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Following England’s first Ashes victory a pair of cricket bails were burned and the ashes placed in an urn which also acts as the trophy given to the winning team at the end of each series. The urn itself also has a rich history; upon winning the first series in 1882, Ivo Bligh was presented with the urn by a local social group called the Melbourne Women. The leader of the group was Florence Morphy who Bligh went on to marry. Due to its delicate nature, a replica has been given to

the winning captain of each series, with the original kept at the Marylebone Cricket Museum. It has only travelled back to Australia on two occasions. Once, in 1988, for the Bicentenary Test, which celebrated colonial settlement in Australia, and then again in 2006 for a tour of the country prior to that year’s Ashes series.

To date 69 series have been played, with both sides winning 32 and drawing five. Therefore, this year’s meeting will be highly contested with both teams determined to gain an edge on the competition.

Howzat! Four Ashes series which will go down in history...

1891/92 - Aussie’s achieve first Ashes success Up until 1891 The Ashes had been completely dominated by the English, who had won the first eight consecutive series.

Captained by wicketkeeper Jack Blackham, Australia claimed a 2-1 victory in what was then a three-day test series rather than the five we are used to today. However, this maiden victory for Australia did not do much to curtail England’s dominance in the 19th century as they went on to win another three back to back series.

1932/33 - Bodyline controversy

and England romped to a 4-1 win. However, a lot of attention surrounded the bodyline incident. In fact, representatives from both countries even had to step in to prevent relations between Australia and England being damaged. The laws of the game were even changed to prevent it happening again.

2005 - The country falls in love with cricket as England record a historic win Claiming the famous urn for the first time since 1987, this was the series that is often regarded as the most thrilling of all time. Every match was tightly fought and England narrowly achieved victory with a 2-1 series win. The final test at The Oval ended in a draw meaning that The Ashes would return to English shores for the first time in 15 years.

The second test at Edgbaston reflected just how tightly contested the series was. England won the test by just two runs with Marcus Trescothick scoring 90 runs in the process.

The victory and subsequent celebrations saw the triumphant players become heroes, with bowler Andrew Flintoff MBE winning BBC Sports Personality of the Year and the team taking home the team award at the ceremony.

2013/14 - England humbled

Going into the 1932/33 series Australia had one of the most formidable attacking batting teams in the world with the likes of Archie Jackson, Bill Woodfull and Stan McCabe. Knowing that this batting line-up could cause them trouble, England captain Douglas Jardine adopted a tactic to combat it which resulted in controversy.

Having won the last three series in a row, England went into this campaign with high hopes and took a squad to Australia which included three uncapped players. However, Australia were rampant and England suffered a humiliating 5-0 defeat. It led to the retirement of all-rounder Graeme Swann and batsman Jonathan Trott from international cricket and batsman Kevin Pietersen’s last ever appearance for the national team.

Dubbed ‘Bodyline’, the bowlers were instructed to bowl at the bodies of the batsman causing them to protect themselves with the bat resulting in easier catches. The tactic worked

This defeat will surely be fresh in the minds of the current England squad as they head back to Australia in November for the first time since this loss.

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WELCOME to the European Senior Tour’s new UK event...

Since the foundations of the European Senior Tour were laid in 1992, the Tour has grown to become one of the most challenging seasons a golfer can face. Those on the Tour are better suited than most for the challenge, with the roster comprising of Major champions, ex-Ryder Cup players, European Tour winners and Hall of Fame members, all aged 50 and over, and all competing to top the esteemed Order of Merit list.

The 2017 season began all the way back in March, and comes to its conclusion in December on the paradise island of Mauritius, the setting for the season-ending MCB Tour Championships. Before the top players jet off to the Indian Ocean isle for one last battle, the penultimate tournament of a challenging 15-round season, sees the Tour’s finest head off to a brand-new setting in the picturesque Warwickshire countryside.

Event organisers Champions (UK) plc, will bring the 2017 Farmfoods European Senior Masters to the Midlands, which will take place across four days at the Forest of Arden Marriott

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Hotel & Country Club, between 19-22 October. The event looks certain to attract the biggest and best players from the Tour and will test participant’s golfing credentials, with the winner receiving an impressive €50,000 from the overall €200,000 prize fund.

The event will bring with it a fresh challenge, something that is sure to thrill both amateurs and professionals alike. Former Ryder Cup captains, Paul McGinley and José María Olazábal, both now 50 years old, are eligible to play, along with 1993 Ryder Cup player Peter Baker, the official tournament host, who will be competing in his first European Senior Tour event on the Arden course.

Peter discussed his expectations for the event: “It’s going to be an exciting week at the Forest of Arden, and to be able to bring such a high-level tournament back to the Midlands is great for fans in the region and beyond.”

Other professionals currently entered include, British Senior Open Champion, Paul Broadhurst, three-time European Senior Tour winner, Gary Wolstenholme MBE, European Tour winners *Correct at the time of writing

2018’s tournament is set to take place between 4-7 OCTOBER at the FOREST OF ARDEN. For more information please visit:

EUROPEANSENIORMASTERS.COM ESMastersGolf

David Gilford, Barry Lane, Costantino Rocca and Jarmo Sandelin, Order of Merit winner Paul Wesselingh and two-time Senior Major champion, Roger Chapman*.

The Forest of Arden is a fitting stage to host such an illustrious event, with its two courses, the Arden (the Championship course) and the Aylesford, and it has hosted the British Masters on five occasions. Past winners include Barry Lane, Colin Montgomerie OBE and 2018 European Ryder Cup Captain Thomas Bjørn.

With a breathtaking backdrop of tall oak trees along the back nine, the beauty hides the tough challenge of the lush, yet

ESMastersGolf

testing rough, before reaching the immaculately maintained putting greens. While it may not have hosted an event as significant as the Farmfoods European Senior Masters for a number of years, the world-renowned hotel and golf resort is more than ready to re-make its mark in professional tour golf.

David MacLaren, Head of the European Senior Tour, said: “We are delighted to add the Farmfoods European Senior Masters to the schedule, when we initially met with Champions (UK) plc we were highly impressed with what they have achieved with the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship and look forward to establishing a world class event with them long into the future.”

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THE TONY JACKLIN RYDER CUP COLLECTION

By Joe Austen “The win had an electrifying effect on golf in the UK, and that is when my admiration for the sport was rooted.”

This is how British artist and writer, Joe Austen, described the impact of Tony Jacklin CBE’s Major wins at both The Open Championship in 1969 and the U.S. Open in 1970, on how he, and many others viewed the future of golf.

Praising that historical triumph as “a time of promise for British golf”, Tony’s win also marked the point where Joe had his first glimpse of inspiration for what went on to form a phenomenal collection of golfing artwork.

At his most content with golf portraiture, Joe has been nurturing his love of oil painting for well over 40 years and in that time has painted some of history’s greatest ever golfers.

His works permanently reside on the illustrious walls in

The Gallery of Champions at the Macdonald Rusacks hotel, St Andrews, Scotland.

The gallery is located next to the eighteenth fairway at one of the most iconic golf courses in the world, the Old Course, making it the perfect place for Joe’s artwork to hang.

His most recent collection of pieces, titled the ‘Tony Jacklin Ryder Cup Collection’, was created in association with Tony himself and now holds permanent residency in the hotel and honours 24 of the greatest Ryder Cup captains of all time.

Tony Jacklin’s bold portrait is situated alongside the likes of Jack Nicklaus, Paul McGinley and Ian Woosnam OBE. Such has been the impact and reception of The Gallery of Champions, on both the art and golf world, a select few of those featured in the collection were made honourees of the gallery. The artwork has also been graced with autographs of the game’s biggest names including Arnold Palmer, Gary Player, Roberto de Vicenzo and Sandy Lyle MBE. Great praise came for Joe, with legendary Argentinian golfer Roberto de Vicenzo stating that the “paintings will get you into heaven.”

Also on the walls in The Gallery of Champions are Joe’s other collections, including the ‘Macdonald Collection’, the ‘Historical Collection’ and the ‘Portraits of the Royal Captains’, which showcases iconic golfers through time.

‘The World of Golf’ painting which is in the possession of the owner of the Old Course, is the piece of artwork that formed the foundation for all of Joe’s subsequent pieces. It features portraits of the greatest golfing champions, starting with pioneers of the game such as Allan Robertson, who is widely regarded as one of the first ever professional golfers, through to later legends such as Lee Trevino and Peter Thomson CBE. The Tony Jacklin Ryder Cup Collection, and Joe’s other collections, are truly a sight to behold and anyone is welcome to visit The Gallery of Champions at the Macdonald Rusacks Hotel.

Visit: www.joeausten.com to find out more about Joe and his artwork.

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A brief look at the artist behind the easel

Tony Jacklin

Jack Nicklaus

Paul McGinley

Tom Watson

Seve Ballesteros

Ian Poulter

Justin Rose

Arnold Palmer

Phil Mickelson

Lee Westwood

Darren Clarke

Sam Torrance

Joe Austen was born and raised in St Andrews, Scotland, where he first established himself as a writer, artist, producer and director. As one of the world’s foremost golf portraitures he has an extensive portfolio of work to his name. Prolific in his output, Joe has over 30 published books, has written Lanny Wadkins Paul Azinger Ben Crenshaw more Ian Woosnam than 100 television programmes, and has written the lyrics for more than 150 broadcast songs.

Just some of his notable career achievements include creating the popular children’s animation show The Magic House which ran across ITV networks from 1994-1998 and Bumper Storybooks which were a hugely successful series of illustrated children’s stories. He has also been part of the conceptualising Colin Montgomerie Nick Faldo Eamonn Darcy Langer process for numerous other television shows and Bernhard screenplays.

For more information or to book Tony Jacklin CBE Percy & Peter Alliss Samuel Ryder Abe Mitchell Walter Hagen for your next event please contact Benny Lawrence at blawrence@championsukplc.com or call 08453 31 30 31

www.championscelebrity.com

son

Ian Woosnam

Lanny Wadkins

Paul Azinger

Ben Crenshaw

almer

Colin Montgomerie

Nick Faldo

Eamonn Darcy

Bernhard Langer

ance

Percy & Peter Alliss

Samuel Ryder

Abe Mitchell

Walter Hagen

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HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN

“ART IS NOT WHAT YOU SEE, BUT WHAT OTHERS MAKE YOU SEE.�

EDGAR DEGAS Few things have the power to move a person quite like art. From astonishing pieces that leave the viewer feeling emotionally vulnerable, to vibrant paintings that lift and make the heart sing, art is a truly powerful medium.

Bringing fine art to art lovers for over 25 years are brothers Cameron and Drew McMillan who own the M. McMillan & Sons fine art gallery.

Located in South Kensington, M. McMillan & Sons is home to a large selection of artwork, with a particular focus on 19th century original oil paintings as well as 16th and 17th century oil masters.

Concentrating on quality, visitors to the gallery will also find paintings covering a wide range of subjects including venetian, equestrian, landscapes and seascapes, among many others.

With their enviable knowledge of the fine art world, the brothers are aptly placed to work with clients looking to build their art collection.

With their alert system, the gallery is able to track art, helping collectors looking for that special piece. If required, they can also buy on commission that must-have artwork.

The gallery also offers a range of other services including full restoration, artwork cleaning, framing services as well as offering valuations for insurance purposes.

Operating in a world that is ever-changing, Cameron and Drew work hard to keep abreast of the latest trends and are ever alert to which artists to watch for the future.

It is with great delight therefore that M. McMillan & Sons have confirmed themselves as representing contemporary artist, Carlos Salvador Mira.

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Meet the artist A classically trained contemporary artist, Carlos Salvador Mira’s style is an enticing blend of classic portraiture with his fresh, modern style. Able to create a sense of energy within his work, Carlos’ exceptional attention to detail, enables him to create a portrait which is not only a stunning work of art in its own right, but also captures the sitter’s look and personality.

As a portrait painter, Spanish-born Carlos, has enjoyed huge success, painting many high-profile people, including the King of Spain himself.

Having studied at the Polytechnic University of Valencia, since graduating, Carlos has been working within the art world, gaining invaluable experience.

Arrange an exclusive consultation by emailing Drew or Cameron personally on:

cameron@mcmillanfineart.com or drew@mcmillanfineart.com

For contemporary art advice please contact Katharine Nichols

KNichols.art@gmail.com

To browse the vast collections or to find out more about Drew and Cameron visit: www.mcmillanfineart.com Phone: 020 75811 111 Mobile: 07500 400 158 Address: 26 Bute Street, South Kensington, London, SW7 3EX

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Where the cooks go...

Cookware

Our outdoor spaces can often provide additional living space; providing a place to dine, relax and socialise, however, Range Cookers Glassware Gadgets for most of us as the evenings start to draw in, the garden furniture and the BBQ gets packed away, not to be used again until late spring.

BBQs

However, with the right additions, gardens can be used all year-round as a place to cook and eat, maximising a home’s living space and helping to create fantastic memories with friends and family.

tion

With this in mind, leading Hobs cooking appliances supplier, Refrigeration Ovens

Cookers of Distinction, have a wide range of outdoor cooking appliances available throughout the year.

Stocking pizza ovens, smokers and BBQs from leading brands, including Alfa Pizza, Viking BBQ’s, Flaming Grills, Grill Dome & Traegerills. The available ranges provide exceptional cooking functionality while also adding aesthetic appeal to any garden.

For more information contact: Simon Barrs 01530 443648 07889 320678 simon@codltd.co.uk www.codltd.co.uk

Cookware

raction

Range Cookers

Refrigeration

Glassware

Hobs

Gadgets

Ovens

Warming Drawers

BBQs

Accessories

Warming Drawers

Accessories

Outdoor living redefined When it comes to outdoor cooking, for those looking to make a statement, there is Aemyrie. This luxury range of outdoor kitchens redefine outdoor living. With appliances as beautiful as they are practical, the Aemyrie range offers an exceptional cooking experience for both food enthusiasts and professional cooks.

Designed by the in-house team of artisan craftsman and experienced designers, the result is a bespoke outdoor kitchen which has been designed and built around the specific needs of the individual. The core design of Aemyrie’s products is inspired by the automotive and nautical industries for a look that is both classic and stylish.

The perfect marriage of state-of-the-art technology paired with the authenticity of a classic wood fired grill, every outdoor kitchen is built to order.

ALL APPLIANCES INCLUDE FREE DELIVERY & INSTALLATION WHEN YOU QUOTE ‘COD INSPI LONDON’

Built by hand in England by professional fabricators, as such, production is limited, making Aemyrie owners an elite group.

Choosing an Aemyrie means: • The ability to cook enough food for 30 or more people, perfect for family gatherings and professionals • The option to adjust temperatures allows for perfect cooking • Cool-touch exterior makes it safer for children and pets • Digital display allows for fingertip control • A choice of finishing panels providing the perfect way to personalise Along with outdoor cooking appliances, Cookers of Distinction also supply a wide range of extractors, range cookers, induction hobs and gas hobs. They are also able to offer appliance installation from one of their highly-trained professionals.

BRANDS WE SUPPLY: Falmec | Barazza | ABK InnoVent Cooking Appliances | ILVE Cooking Appliances Steel Cucine Cooking Appliances | Godin Range Cookers | Faber Extraction | PITT by Reginox | Viking Range Cooking Appliances Officine Gullo Cooking Appliances | Alfa Pizza | Aemyrie | Flaming Grill

HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN

DFS at dfs.co.uk Left hand facing arm pillow corner sofa

£1,998

Marks & Spencerat marksandspencer.com Tall hammered vase

Roberts at very.co.uk.com

Very at very.co.uk.com

£39.50

Pastel cream radio

Gallery metallic bee cushion

£169.99

£25

Oliver Bonas at oliverbonas.com

Smeg at very.co.uk.com

Marble effect heart wine stop

Blender

£12

£149.99

Next at next.co.uk

Oliver Bonas at oliverbonas.com

Marble effect kettle

Jewellery stand

£35

£26

Heat Holders at heatholders.co.uk Luxury fleece blanket - in snow fall

£26.99

Very at very.co.uk.com soft velour grey cushion

£12

Timeless elegance This time of year is all about making our homes as cosy and welcoming as possible but that is not to say that our homes still can’t be stylish!

Oliver Bonas at oliverbonas.com

Interior inspiration can come from anywhere and everywhere, including our travels, movies, books and even High Street fashion.

Le Cocktail velvet pink chair

If your home is in need of a style update this autumn/winter, then check out Inspirational London Magazine’s run down of the hottest interior trends and styles emerging this season.

£425 94 |

INSPIRATIONAL.LONDON

Marks & Spencer at marksandspencer.com Valiant silver stag wall art

Easy fit pendant light

£18

Marks & Spencer at marksandspencer.com

£45

Large sand timer

£29.50

Amara at amara.com Newgate clock

Tom Dixon at johnlewis.com

£60

Set of two martini glasses

£80

Very at very.co.uk.com Baroque dressing table, stool and mirror

Marks & Spencer at marksandspencer.com

£199

Brampton console table

£299

Marks & Spencers at marksandspencer.com Cabin table lamp

£99

Marks & Spencer at marksandspencer.com Loft leaning tripod lamp

Marks & Spencer at marksandspencer.com Lucia antique copper latern

£25

£95

Oliver Bonas at oliverbonas.com Marble makeup brush holder

£24

Marks & Spencer at marksandspencer.com Lena coffee table

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Go to our NEW website Inspirational.london/gift-guide to see more

Next at next.co.uk

HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN

FOR THE LOVE OF

COOKING… When it comes to updating your home, finding a specialist capable of doing the work is often a stumbling block. From poor workmanship to non-genuine replacement parts, choosing the wrong supplier can lead to problems.

Thankfully, for those looking to enhance their cooking facilities by upgrading to a new appliance, or for those maintaining or repairing their current one, JES Ltd are on hand to help.

Launched in 2005 JES Ltd have built a reputation as experts in the industry, offering a nationwide service. Covering all aspects of cooking appliances from induction hobs, range cookers, pizza ovens and BBQ’s to extraction systems.

JES Ltd’s workmanship takes the worry out of finding a reputable company to service your appliances. JES Ltd are fully qualified in their industry and offer reassurance of being fully insured; gas safe registered and electric safe registered.

Services include:

INSTALLATION

JES Ltd can provide all the relevant professional advice to enable a stress free installation of all cooking appliances and extraction systems.

SERVICING

JES Ltd can invest in high-quality appliance warrants undertaking a servicing plan. Our team of experts can fully service a wide range of gas and electrical appliances to ensure optimum efficiency and maintain its lifespan.

SUPPORT

JES Ltd can make minor fixes to more significant maintenance, only authentic parts are used by our trained engineers when repairing an appliance.

COMMISSIONING

JES Ltd can test and commission any cooking appliance, indoor, outdoor and extraction system to enable the appliance to work correctly, safely and efficiently.

Offering a nationwide service, to find out more about the wide range of services available, call the JES Ltd team on 01530 220693 or email simon@jointes.co.uk

www.jointes.co.uk @info_jointes

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J.E.S LTD

J.E.S LTD

10% OFF WHEN YOU QUOTE ‘LONDON4’

*Cooker featured is a Godin BRANDS WE SUPPORT:

Lacanche Range Cookers | Godin Range Cookers | Viking Range Cooking Appliances | ABK InnoVent Cooking Appliances Officine Gullo Cooking Appliances | PITT by Reginox | BORA Appliances | Barazza | Falmec | Fornair Extractor Hoods Steel Cucine Cooking Appliances | Mercury Range Cookers | La Cornue | DACOR Cooking Appliances Wolf Cooking Appliances | Five Star Cooking Appliances | ILVE Cooking Appliances | Tuscany Chef Range Cookers | Westin Extractor Hoods

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HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN

CHOICE FINANCE Is London calling?

From fears about Brexit, a reportedly stagnant market and prices which are out of the reach of many working people, negotiating the highs and lows of London’s property market is not for the faint hearted.

Despite this, each year thousands of people move to London from across the UK and the world, looking to make the capital their home. From its thriving nightlife, world-class universities, cultural treasures and great shopping, London is an exciting, dynamic and vibrant place to live.

Whether you are new to the London property market or you are a born and bred Londoner, when it comes to putting down roots and buying a property, getting the right advice is essential in protecting your finances.

According to the Government’s UK House Price Index*, published in May, the cost of an average UK property is £215,847, however, head to the bright lights of the capital and that average property more than doubles, costing a staggering £471,742.

With significant sums at stake, whether you are an investor, a first-time buyer or moving up the ladder, finding the right 98 |

INSPIRATIONAL.LONDON

financing options for your circumstances can help make your dreams a reality.

Expertise in your corner…

Here at Choice Finance we are mortgage and finance experts that do things a little differently. With over 10 years’ industry experience, we understand not only the market, but also what our clients want and need from us in order to make the best decisions for them.

Matching our clients with their perfect mortgage, we scour the whole market, not just mortgages from specific lenders, to get a full picture of what is on offer. Armed with this knowledge we are in the best possible position to advise clients on their options.

Our approach…

The Choice Finance approach is simple – we get to know our clients; understanding their finances, short-term aims and long-term aspirations.

With a dedicated case handler assigned to each client, from beginning to end there is one point of contact, helping us to

build a trusted relationship with our clients. Our jargon-free approach aims to demystify the property buying process and we talk with clients in a straight-forward way, something they always value.

A complete solution…

Along with targeted mortgage advice, our services also include advice and guidance on a wide range of other services, which can secure financial protection for the future, including:

At every stage…

Our team of experts work with clients across all life stages and have the knowledge and expertise to make property dreams a reality.

The team work with: • First-time buyers • Those looking to remortgage

• Life insurance

• Investors

• Critical illness cover

• Home movers, including those purchasing new build property

• Home insurance • Income protection • Private medical insurance

To discuss your requirements and find out how Choice Finance can help you secure your place on London’s property ladder, call the team on 0800 161 5775, alternatively email: info@ choicefinancemortgages.com

www.choicefinancemortgages.com A mortgage is a loan secured against your home. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage or any other debt secured on it. *www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-house-price-index-hpi-for-march-2017

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Eat well, Eat fresh, Eat seasonal

Any restaurant worth its salt will often declare that it uses locally sourced, seasonal produce for its dishes, a boast that, as diners, we recognise as a sign of freshness, quality and taste.

However, when it comes to choosing seasonal ingredients for the home, few of us follow the example of our favourite restaurants.

A reason behind this could be the huge variety of fresh fruit and vegetables on offer all year-round in supermarkets up and down the country. As an island, with a somewhat questionable climate, to give shoppers this amount of choice means that food needs to be transported, often over massive distances.

While importing food on a vast scale does give consumers choice and has opened up a whole new world of ingredients and tastes, it does come at a price.

‘Food miles’ - the distance our food travels from where it is produced to the consumer’s plate, has been a hot debate for many years thanks to the environmental impact they have. Often travelling vast distances, (many supermarkets stock food from as far away as New Zealand (lamb) and South Africa (apples) some 6,000 miles away), importing food in this way means extra vehicle movements along with plane or ship transportation – all of which results in carbon emissions.

While having out of season foods available to us year-round does promote a reliance on foods from further afield, another potential barrier to consumers choosing to eat seasonally could be a lack of knowledge.

A 2014 BBC Good Food Magazine survey of 2,000 people identified that many of us simply did not know when foods were at their best. For example, only 4% of those polled knew when blackberries were in season.

Clearly, eating locally grown, seasonal produce makes sense in terms of the environment, but what other benefits does choosing seasonal foods bring?

Choosing to eat in season is the difference between, for example, a local, in season strawberry in May and an imported one from Morocco in December is startling. The flavour, texture and juiciness simply cannot compare.

Eaten at the optimum time and travelling such a short distance from field to fork undoubtedly impacts on flavour, is why so many restaurants choose seasonal produce. Chefs are all about flavour and by choosing ingredients that are at their best and most delicious, dishes are off to a great start from the outset.

Choosing seasonal food can also have cost benefits too. It is a simple case of supply and demand, when something is in season, prices tend to fall, when it is harder to get, prices go up.

What’s more, by eating locally sourced produce, consumers can help to support local traders and British producers.

Of course, the Great British weather means that certain foods will never completely thrive, however, by knowing what’s in season, it is possible to find plenty of homegrown options that will taste great.

Helen’s tips on what you should be eating, and when

JANUARY TO MARCH

January will see apples, Brussels sprouts, carrots, cauliflowers, leeks and pears all in season. As the months move on, add Jersey Royals, parsnips and purple sprouting broccoli to your shopping list.

APRIL TO JUNE So things are starting to warm up seasonally and along with apples, cauliflowers and Iceberg lettuce, asparagus and strawberries start to hit their peak. By June raspberries and sugar snap peas will also be available.

JULY TO SEPTEMBER Fruit and veg is in abundance at this time of year, help yourself to locally sourced broad beans, celery, carrots, cherries, courgettes, Piccolo tomatoes, plums, sweetcorn, Pak Choi, and new potatoes amongst many others.

OCTOBER TO DECEMBER While the cold weather is now settling in there are still plenty of fruit and veg seasonal to the UK available.

Look out for apples, cauliflower, parsnips, tenderstem broccoli and savoy cabbage.

@fussfreeflavours | www.fussfreeflavours.com

FINE DINING GUIDE

INSPIRATIONAL LONDON

FINE DINING GUIDE Helen Best-Shaw, otherwise known as Fuss Free Flavours, is a freelance food writer and blogger who knows a thing or two about eating well. Sharing her simple, yet delicious, recipes with her thousands of followers, Helen is loved by her fans for her fuss-free approach to cooking, producing dishes that look and taste great but with a little know-how are easy to prepare.

While loving hitting the kitchen to cook up a storm, Helen also puts her discriminating palate to good use by reviewing restaurants. Here, Helen shares her highlights from the Inspiration London fine dining guide.

Whatever your food craving – you’ll find it satisfied in London. Whether it is a taste of traditional British cuisine at one of London’s most established and iconic restaurants, Langan’s Brasserie, or for food with a twist, impeccably served, at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, London has you covered.

If it is Michelin-quality food that you are after, A Wong in Victoria is a must, serving authentic Chinese cuisine, this Michelin starred restaurants puts its own spin on things. Also worth venturing out for is The Hind’s Head which along with delicious food serves exceptional cocktails as well as Mere, the first restaurant from leading chef, Monica Galetti. Finally, there is Core by Clare Smyth MBE, new for 2017, this Notting Hill located restaurant offers modern dining at its very best.

Fuss Free Fl avours’ Mix Roast Vegetaed Grain, Tomato and ble Bake The perfect quick-fix mea

l for a winter

Ingredients

The timing wi ll if you start pr work eparing the bake abou t 15 minutes after the vegetables ha roast ve been put in the ov en.

Recipe taken

’s day…

Method

1.5kg mix of parsnip, swee carrot, t potato, peppers, red onion, butternut sq uash or pumpkin. Cu t into 1.5cm cubes 4 cloves garli c 1 tbs olive oil Salt and pepp er to season For the rice and quinoa tomato one pot: 1 tsp olive oil, 1 sm all onion finely choppe d, 150g quick cook br own rice, 150g quinoa, 1 x 440g can chopped tomatoes, 550 ml vege table stock

For the vege tables 1. Preheat th e oven to 18 0C/ gas mark 5 2. Place all the ingredie nts into a large roastin g good shake to tray, give a cover in the oil and cook for 45 minute s.

For the rice and quinoa 1. Fry the on ion in a casse role dish suitable for for a few minu the hob tes until it is translucent, add the rice, quinoa, tinne d tomatoes an d stock, and all ow it to come to a simmer.

Put the lid on the casserole and cook in the oven for 25 minutes.

2. Stir in ha lf the ro vegetables, ad ast d water if need a little ed and retur n to the oven for a further 10 minutes (turn th when you pu e oven off t the pot back in).

3. Serve with a dollop of yoghurt, toas ted flaked almonds and chopped herb s.

from www.fu

ssfreeflavou

s.com

For more information on Helen Best-Shaw or to enquire about booking her for your brand's campaign please contact Amelia Neate at Influencer on 08453 31 30 31 or email aneate@influencerchampions.com.

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Langan’s Brasserie is arguably one of the most iconic eateries in London, boasting an interesting history, a menu that showcases traditionally British cuisine, and an interior easily mistaken for a highprofile art gallery.

Located on Stratton Street in the affluent Mayfair, which is awash with fine architecture and five star hotels, Langan’s Brasserie was founded in 1976 by entrepreneur Peter Langan and his actor friend and business partners, Sir Michael Caine CBE and Richard Shepherd CBE (the first ever Michelin starred chef).

Under the trio’s wing, the restaurant quickly became a haunt for the world's most famous faces, seating the likes of the iconic Dame Elizabeth Taylor, Mohammed Ali, Sir Mick Jagger and Jack Nicholson.

An avid art enthusiast, Peter also built a prestigious art collection with originals from dear friends and famed artists including Francis Bacon and David Hockney. To this day the restaurant and private dining area’s walls are still adorned with original paintings, a feature that brings guests to the brasserie time and time again.

Sadly Peter passed away in 1988 due to a fire at his home, however his legacy lives on.

Offering an exciting range of traditional British fayre, at Langan’s, diners find a delicious mix of vibrant dishes all made from fresh ingredients.

Dishes include, spinach souffle, grilled Dover sole with parsley butter, Veal Saltimbocca and beef Wellington with Madeira sauce.

The menus have, of course, naturally changed with the times, but there are still a few dishes that pay homage to the brasserie’s history and have remained on the menu since the day it’s doors first opened.

The brasserie, which also offers a decadent bar area, is truly the perfect destination for both art and food lovers alike.

For more information or to book a table please visit

www.langansbrasserie.com or call 020 7491 8822 Stratton Street, Mayfair, London, W1J 8LB AUTUMN/WINTER 2017 ISSUE 4

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FINE DINING GUIDE

DINNER BY HESTON BLUMENTHAL London

Heston Blumenthal’s two Michelin-starred Dinner is a celebration of historic British gastronomy, located in a contemporary setting within the newly refurbished Mandarin Oriental Hotel overlooking Hyde Park. Under the watchful eye of Heston, Chef Director Ashley Palmer-Watts spent years researching archives from Hampton Court Palace and The British Library to create a finely crafted menu, which draws on recipes from as far back as the fourteenth century.

Every item on the menu at Dinner tells a story, and dishes such as the roast marrowbone (c.1720) and frumenty (c.1390) are the result of many months of research and development, digging into the depths of British culinary history to create something groundbreaking. Indeed meatfruit (c.1500) and tipsy cake (c.1810) have reached iconic status, and are two of the most instagrammed dishes in the world.

Treat your loved ones to dinner at Dinner for a seriously unforgettable occasion, or pop in for a business lunch; at £45 for three exquisite courses it’s remarkably good value. Dinner also has a magnificent private dining room which seats 12, and if you’re looking to really push the boat out there’s a chefs table overlooking the spectacular glass-fronted show kitchen.

Food served: Monday to Friday: Lunch 12:00-14:00 Dinner 18:00-22:15 Saturday & Sunday: Lunch 12:00-14:30 Dinner 18:30-22:30 Dinner by Heston Blumenthal Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, 66 Knightsbridge, London, SW1X 7LA

020 7201 3833 www.dinnerbyheston.co.uk

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DINE IN

STYLE

A FEAST FOR THE SENSES. A MOMENT TO SAVOUR. THE FINEST INGREDIENTS. THE DIVERSE FLAVOURS. THE EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE. THE PLACE TO BE. RESTAURANTS & BARS AT THE DORCHESTER. The Grill at The Dorchester Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester The Promenade China Tang The Bar at The Dorchester

LONDON

I

#DCmoments

+44 20 7629 8888 The Dorchester

I

DORCHESTERCOLLECTION.COM @TheDorchester

@thedorchester

FINE DINING GUIDE

INSPIRATIONAL

FINE DINING GUIDE

A WONG London

Headed up by chef Andrew Wong, this stunning restaurant in the heart of London’s Victoria has recently received it’s first Michelin star, which couldn’t be more deserved. A. Wong serves authentic Chinese cuisine with a twist, offering an innovative and modern take on traditional Chinese flavours and techniques. If you’re a fan of Dim Sum, grab a table at lunchtime and prepare to be blown away by their delicate, refined and yet punchy selection of dumplings and small plates, thought to be one of the only restaurants in the capital to offer the Hong Kong delicacy on a piece by piece basis.

Book in advance to indulge in the Peking duck tasting menu, which pays homage to one of the most iconic dishes in Chinese gastronomy.

Making use of an entire duck, each bird is taken through a series of processes over two days, before reaching the table in the form of an eight course tasting menu. A ten-course ‘Taste of China’ menu, which depicts the astounding diversity of the country’s cuisine, is also available for dinner. Tucked beneath the restaurant is The Forbidden City bar, providing guests with an atmospheric candlelit space to enjoy pre-dinner drinks or snacks below the hubbub of the main restaurant.

Food served: Tuesday to Saturday: Lunch 12:00-2:30pm Monday to Saturday: Dinner 5:30-10:30pm A Wong 70 Wilton road, Victoria, London, SW1V 1DE 0207 828 8931 www.awong.co.uk

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THE HIND’S HEAD London

Think low wooden beams, roaring open fires and quirky taxidermy trinkets; the newly refurbished Hind’s Head draws on the building’s five hundred year history for inspiration, with playful references to its origins as a hunting lodge and coaching inn. Dating back to Tudor times and steeped in royal intrigue, The Hind’s Head has played host to Prince Phillip and The Queen, who dined there with a party of fifty royal guests in 1963, and housed the infamous Vicar of Bray in the sixteenth century. With a Michelin star up their sleeves, Heston Blumenthal’s talented team of chefs cook up refined British classics such as scallop tartare with caviar and white chocolate, roast saddle of highland venison, and quaking pudding with cinnamon, nutmeg and apple. With access to The Fat Duck’s vast database of recipes, The Hind’s Head chefs draw on Heston and the development team’s many years of research into historical British dining.

If you arrive with time to spare, head upstairs to the opulent Royal Lounge for inventive pre-dinner cocktails, including the fragrant Gold Rush with elderflower, champagne and grapefruit bitters, garnished with gold leaf. The groundbreaking runny yolk Scotch egg – which was in fact first created at The Hind’s Head when Heston took the restaurant over 11 years ago – makes for a perfect bar snack accompaniment. And if you fancy hosting a grand banquet, the sumptuous Vicar’s Room seats 20 around a regal table hewn from a single trunk of oak.

Food served: Monday to Saturday: 12:00-2:00pm & 6:00-9:00pm Sunday: 12:00pm-3:30pm The Hind’s Head High Street, Bray, SL6 2AB 01628 626151 www.hindsheadbray.com

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FINE DINING GUIDE

MERE London

Chef Monica Galetti’s first solo restaurant, Mere opened on Fitzrovia’s buzzing Charlotte Street earlier this year to much excitement. A joint venture with Monica’s sommelier husband David, Mere is a melting pot of the cultural influences which have defined their lives, bringing together Monica’s South Pacific and New Zealand heritage with elements of classical French cuisine, drawing on David’s French background and their years at Le Gavroche. The menu changes seasonally, with favourite dishes including roasted squab breast served with black apple butter, hispi cabbage and manuka glazed swede, and ‘Salted Toffee and Hokey Pokey’, a milk chocolate mousse served with Hokey Pokey (more commonly known as honeycomb!) ice cream and a Breton sable.

A magnificent wine list boasts an excellent selection from Europe and further afield, and includes Monica and David’s own bespoke Mere Champagne – a 100% chardonnay Blanc de Blanc. If you’re flummoxed by the extensive wine list, head sommelier Sandra Bein will help suggest the perfect wine pairing for your meal, and don’t miss out on a cocktail or two in their elegant yet contemporary bar. Our favourite this season is the pumpkin spiced bourbon sour, recently created by head barman Laurent. For something extra special, Mere’s private dining room can also be booked in advance, with a bespoke six-course menu for up to ten guests.

Food served: Monday to Saturday: Dinner 12:00pm-14:00pm Monday to Saturday: Lunch 18:00pm-22:00pm Closed all day Sundays and Bank Holidays Mere 74 Charlotte Street, London W1T 4QH 0207 268 6565 www.mere-restaurant.com

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CORE BY CLARE SMYTH MBE London

One of 2017’s most anticipated new restaurants, Core by Clare Smyth MBE opened its doors in swanky Notting Hill this August. Located in a characterful converted town house on Kensington Park Road, Core redefines modern fine dining, with polished wooden tables and an open, glass-fronted show kitchen. The menu has a strong British ethos, with an emphasis on excellent ingredients from independent farmers and artisan producers, all of whom have a story to tell: From scallops provided by The Ethical Shellfish Company in the Isle of Mull to hand-sorted potatoes from Chris Hayselden’s farm in Suffolk, no detail is too small.

Renowned for her fastidious attention to detail, Clare’s kitchen offers both a la carte and tasting menu options. Outstanding dishes such as the ‘Lamb braised carrot’ aims to challenge the perception of vegetables being secondary to meat, making the carrot the star of the show.

Likewise, the Charlotte potato with dulse buerre blanc, herring and trout roe elevates the humble potato to new levels, and is garnished with tiny salt and vinegar crisps, a guilty pleasure of Clare’s. In keeping with Core’s stylish yet informal atmosphere, guests are welcome to drop by to dine in the bar if they fancy popping in for a drink and don’t have a reservation. For special celebrations and a front row view into the kitchen, book the bespoke walnut table for up to ten guests.

Food served: Tuesday to Wednesday: 6:30pm-10:30pm Thursday to Saturday: 12pm-2:30pm & 6:30pm-10:30pm Core 92 Kensington Park Rd, London, W11 2PN 020 3937 5086 www.corebyclaresmyth.com

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Clare Smyth MBE

Home-grown Values at the ‘Core’ of Clare Smyth’s New London Restaurant World-renowned chef, Clare Smyth MBE, opened her first solo restaurant in July, with Core by Clare Smyth opening its doors at 92 Kensington Park Road to a stem green, copper, gold and aubergine – themed restaurant seating 54 guests in the main dining area. The cocktail lounge seats 18, whilst the bespoke walnut table in front of the kitchen offers a view of the chefs at work for parties of up to 10 people.

Inspired by a holiday job at a local restaurant during her final year of school, Clare left compulsory education at the age of 16 and threw herself into the catering industry; moving from her hometown of County Antrim in Ireland, to Portsmouth, Hampshire to study catering at Highbury College.

Following an apprenticeship and a range of positions in both the UK and Australia, Clare began working at Restaurant Gordon Ramsay in 2002, this included working in California and New York to gain experience, before returning to the UK. Clare became the first female chef to run a three Michelin star restaurant when, at the age of 29, took over the kitchen at Gordon Ramsay’s flagship restaurant in Royal Hospital Road in Chelsea.

Not her first foray into Michelin-starred eateries, Clare previously impressed Lewis Hamilton with her craft at the Louis XV restaurant in Monaco, working under Alan Ducasse, who is famously one of Mr Ramsay’s cooking heroes.

Clare has earned a wealth of awards and accreditations for her work within the industry, including the title of the Good Food Guide’s ‘National Chef of the Year’ in 2013, a perfect ten score in 2015’s Good Food Guide of the UK and, perhaps the most prestigious of them all, she was appointed an MBE for services to the hospitality industry by Queen Elizabeth II in the 2013 Birthday Honours.

Core by Clare Smyth is now fully open and offering a tasting menu of 10-12 evolving dishes and a selection of over 400 hand-picked wines and Champagnes from around the world.

Adding to the exclusivity and grandeur of Clare’s solo venture is the bespoke, custom designed Royal Crown Derby crockery and Carrs of Sheffield cutlery, both of which have been chosen and styled to match the elegant décor and themes of nature and traditional cooking throughout the venue.

Clare’s main value for the restaurant is a focus on the quality and locality of ingredients which stems from her farm-based childhood and upbringing.

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“

People influence people. Nothing influences people more than a recommendation from a trusted friend. A trusted referral influences people more than the best broadcast message. A trusted referral is the Holy Grail of advertising.

- Mark Zuckerberg

These ‘trusted friends’ the Facebook pioneer speaks of are not only the physical friends who we see in our day to day lives, but also ‘online friends’ who, for many people, come in the form of social media influencers.

Recognising their influence on consumers, top brands are now investing more time and money into developing their relationships with social media influencers.

”

However, there are a great number of social media influencers out there and an issue many brands face when creating a successful influencer campaign is how to pick the right influencer for them.

With much to consider, selecting the right influencer can take time; something busy marketing teams often have a limited amount of. This is where Influencer Champions comes in.

An agency that manages the interests of both the influencer and the brand, Influencer Champions seeks-out the perfect influencer and brand partnerships, for a mutually beneficial relationship that delivers results.

The brands and influencers the agency work with speaks volumes...

The brands Influencer Champions has worked with many high-profile brands on their influencer campaigns including: Dell, Philips, Feel Unique, Arla, Cully and Sully, Harvey Nichols, Schwartz, Rennie, VonShef and Philadelphia. …

CELEBRITY LIFESTYLE FITNESS TRAVEL FOOD & DRINK MUSIC PARENTING

ENTERTAINMENT FASHION INTERNATIONAL HOME BEAUTY GAMING

1. https://sproutsocial.com/insights/social-networks-influence-buying-decisions/ 2. http://www.business2community.com/marketing/key-influencermarketing-stats-inform-marketing-strategy-O1817533#xTQsiKJWPeFQvEIz.97 3. http://www.acorninfluence.com/blog/1O-influencer-marketing-statistics/

The Influencers The agency has both worked with and manages some of the best social media influencers from a wide-range of categories. These influencers include: Scarlett London, Fuss Free Flavours, Talk Becky Talk, Holly Sheeran, Mark Ferris, Jake Boys and The London Thing Three statistics that will make you want to re-think your current marketing campaigns to accommodate social media influencers: • 74% 1 of consumers use social media to make purchasing decisions.

• 86% 2 of marketers today use influencer marketing to fuel their content marketing strategies – 88.5% of whom find the influencer content valuable.

• 7O% 3 of teenage YouTube subscribers say they relate to YouTubers more than to traditional celebrities

Spotlight on the Senior Manager – Amelia Neate After noticing more and more brands were also looking to work with social media influencers, Amelia could not ignore the increasing demand for influencers and launched Influencer Champions.

Since its launch, Amelia has nurtured relationships between some of the country’s best-known brands and high-profile influencers. Not only keen to grow the agency’s portfolio of influencers and brands, she is also keen to stay on top of industry trends and updates and so she recently secured sponsorship at one of the UK’s biggest events – the UK Agency Awards.

aneate@influencerchampions.com O8453 31 3O 31 @InfluencerChampions

@InfluencerChampions

@Influencer_Ch

influencerchampions.com

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

TIME IS MORE VALUABLE THAN MONEY… YOU CAN GET MORE MONEY BUT YOU CANNOT GET MORE TIME. - JIM ROHN

SPENDING TIME SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO From work demands to family commitments, spare time is often a precious commodity and all too often we can find ourselves struggling to keep on top of things.

While you can’t buy more spare time, you can maximise it, something the trusted advisors at Otium Partners are experts at.

From co-ordinating home moves to property management, organising holidays to booking restaurants as well as financial consultancy and corporate concierge services, Otium are able to take the strain, leaving their clients free to do the things that really matter – such as spending quality time with family and friends.

Representing high-net worth clients across the UK, Otium offer a personalised service focused on easing the pressure on time-poor people. Working as facilitators, Otium use their extensive network of professional contacts to find the right professional for the task at hand.

From lawyers to accountants to insurers, only approved suppliers who operate to the highest standards are chosen as Otium take on the burden and become their clients’ trusted advisors.

116 |

INSPIRATIONAL.LONDON

MAKING LIFE EASIER Working seamlessly behind the scenes, Otium help their clients’ lives run smoother. The firm’s key focus revolves around: Lifestyle management, banking, insurance, financial planning, tax, investment management, property management, debt advice and a corporate concierge service.

Managing Director, Jeff Durant, and Lifestyle Director Katie Moss, were both former bankers before joining Otium and now combine their expertise to deliver exceptional service to their ever-growing list of clients. Most recently, the pair worked at the private bank, Duncan Lawrie, working for a variety of clients which has stood them in good stead as advisors to high-net worth individuals.

IN PARTNERSHIP One of the business’ main focuses is on building long-lasting relationships with their clients, and earning and maintaining their trust is a vital part of what they do. Speaking of Otium’s commitment to client care, Jeff said: “The two key elements of what we do are time and trust.

Our clients trust us with important and often personal information regarding their lives, businesses and finances so operating in a discreet way is extremely important.”

He continued: “By showing we have the willingness and time to undertake all types of tasks for our clients, we demonstrate our ability to go above and beyond as trusted advisors, offering one professional point of contact handling everything they need. We coordinate and work with suppliers and deliver services taking all of the pressure off the client. Doing this is a key factor in helping us build trust and long-lasting relationships with our clients.”

TAILOR-MADE A key benefit that Otium offers to its clients is a full concierge service.

Through this dedicated service Otium perform an extensive range of time-saving tasks for their clients. This can include anything from event planning, organising holidays to arranging transport or tradespeople.

Knowing that no two clients are the same, Jeff and Katie provide a personalised service – pretty apt for a firm whose purpose it is to help

its clients maximise their free time to spend more time doing what they love.

After all, as Katie says: “why spend time when you can employ it?”

For more information visit Otium’s website

www.otiumpartners.com

Alternatively contact: JEFF DURANT M: 07872 601662 E: jeff.durant@otiumpartners.com KATIE MOSS M: 07738 231445 E: katie.moss@otiumpartners.com

AUTUMN/WINTER 2017 ISSUE 4

| 117

FAMILY LAW

THROUGH DIFFICULT TIMES, TRUST IS EVERYTHING. Shoosmiths’ private client team offer help with all the important and often sensitive issues that can arise within any family or when a relationship breaks down.

With a heritage spanning 165 years, Shoosmiths has built strong

The range of services we provide from our network of offices in England and Scotland includes:

relationships with its clients based on the exceptional service for

• Divorce and separation

which it is renowned.

• Financial provision on divorce or separation

Shoosmiths’ national family

• Child residence, contact and education disputes

offering is a go-to service for high

• Dissolution of civil partnerships

• Applications to relocate overseas with children

net worth individuals, with its

• Nullity proceedings

• International child abduction

experienced and trusted family

• Pre and post-nuptial agreements

• Adoption

lawyers able to provide bespoke,

• Financial provision after an overseas divorce

• Child Support

strategic advice across a wide

• Cohabitation agreements

• Family Mediation

range of family matters.

• Variation and set aside of existing financial orders • Financial provision for children

FOR INFORMATION ON HOW WE CAN HELP YOU, PLEASE CONTACT:

Jay Patel Family Partner Jay acts for high net worth individuals in divorce cases involving substantial assets including companies and off shore assets held in trust.

He has extensive experience in international work and is also a resolution accredited family mediator helping separating couples make important decisions with regard to the care of their children and finances without recourse to Court proceedings.

jay.patel@shoosmiths.co.uk 03700 86 70 50 www.shoosmiths.co.uk

POLITICAL SPEAKERS MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKERS SPORTS SPEAKERS BUSINESS SPEAKERS ENTERTAINMENT COMEDIANS TV & CELEBRITY CHEFS HOST & AUCTIONEER MUSIC ACTS CONFERENCES | CHARITY EVENTS | MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKERS | AFTER DINNER SPEAKERS | ENTERTAINERS | PERSONAL CELEBRITY APPEARANCES

0207 1010 553 | champions-speakers.co.uk member of

EA SB

European Association of Speakers Bureaux

London divorce without the London price tag!

You have to ask yourself, why has it become so expensive to get divorced in the City?

I regularly hear stories of astronomical legal fees in cases where I am told the couple getting divorced just wanted to sort it out as amicably as possible.

Of course there are always the highly litigious cases that are going to end up in Court, either because somebody has normally moved or tried to hide money and assets or refuses to provide the disclosure needed to make a fair assessment of what a reasonable settlement might look like.

With the right lawyer, focused on trying to help a couple reach an agreement, the legal fees should be nothing like the hundreds of thousands of pounds that are regularly reported in the media.

I regularly act for celebrities and people in the public eye and you won’t read about those cases in the media because we do everything to keep the negotiations private and confidential and do all we can to reach an amicable settlement as quickly as possible.

My job, and that of my team, is to take as much of the stress out of the divorce/ separation process for you, help you reach an Agreement as quickly as possible and keep the cost down.

We still talk to many clients who think that they have to go to Court to get divorced.

No-one has to go near a court room now if everything can be agreed. The paperwork to obtain a divorce is very straightforward and if the couple can reach a financial agreement, that agreement is recorded in a document called a Financial Consent Order which is signed and posted to the Judge for approval.

To help couples reach Agreement we will use all sorts of processes. It may be that an Agreement can be reached with just the lawyers’ negotiating with each other. It may be that a particular case is more suitable for mediation, collaborative practice or arbitration.

We discuss all of these options with you to make sure that you choose the right process for your case.

I do not charge for initial telephone consultations, so why not give me a call to see whether or not we can help you take the stress out of your divorce or separation.

It is also worth mentioning that we have a Platinum Service Team, which consists of legal experts adept at advising people about wealth preservation - and this not only includes inherited or gifted family wealth, it can also include how best to preserve and continue running a family business for generations to come.

We will make sure you get the expert advice you need without paying London prices.

Rachael Oakes Partner and Head of Platinum Service

If you want a bespoke solution, tailored to your particular circumstances, without paying a fortune, call me on 0845 128 6960 or send an email at rachael.oakes@freeths.co.uk

www.freeths.co.uk BIRMINGHAM • DERBY • LEEDS • LEICESTER • LONDON • MANCHESTER • MILTON KEYNES • NOTTINGHAM OXFORD • SHEFFIELD • STOKE ON TRENT

How to take it to the next level: Successful succession planning for family businesses Many of the world’s most successful businesses are, at their core, family enterprises. However, there are many challenges in transitioning stewardship of a successful family business between generations. It can often be a complex process that if poorly planned or badly executed may cause significant detriment to the underlying business, not to mention discord and tension between stakeholders. By contrast, a well-planned transition with a clear succession strategy, strong guiding values and efficient execution can help to preserve existing wealth and drive future prosperity for years to come.

Freeths’ Platinum Service provides its clients with access to bespoke legal advice across relevant disciplines including corporate, trusts & estates, property, family and tax. We have extensive experience and expertise in providing guidance to family businesses of all shapes and sizes, and our lawyers are often able to add significant value to both the planning and execution stages of a succession strategy.

There are a number of issues and themes that come up time and again:

Invest time and effort in the process As there are many things to consider, this is often a process that is best done over time, or at least not in a rushed or abrupt manner. A succession strategy that has evolved through open discussion between family members of different generations over a period of several months (or even years), will usually prove to be better for the underlying business than decisions made hurriedly over a few days or weeks. Allow time to meet with your professional advisors, to consider their advice and review draft documents in detail. Tax planning will be an important factor here.

Consider all options In many family businesses it is taken for granted that one or more members of the next generation will ‘follow in the footsteps’ and take over the running of the business. However in some cases, a full sale, partial sale or other liquidity event may be the better option.

Experienced independent professional advice can help to ensure that a fully informed decision is reached.

Evaluate the skills and aspirations of family members When looking to successfully transition the running of a business from one person to another, it is important to critically evaluate their skills, aspirations, strengths and weaknesses. This can be particularly difficult in the context of family members, where shortcomings can be overlooked.

Investment in training and planning for a transitional period to allow future management to ‘grow into the role’ can be the answer. Successful ownership of a business does not necessarily mean involvement in day-today management, and external executives can often bring fresh skills and perspectives.

‘Fair’ does not necessarily mean ‘equal’ It is very often said by senior family members that they want to ensure ‘fairness’ when handing over a business to the next generation. However, it is important to remember that ‘fair’ does not necessarily imply ‘equal’.

Consider carefully, for example, how income and equity should be allocated amongst family members where contributions to managing and growing the business in the future will be different.

Consider the impact of ‘disasters’, such as marital breakdown Whilst it is impossible to totally future-proof a business, personal disasters – death, incapacity, and marital breakdown – do happen.

Consider what should happen in these circumstances. Carefully tailored legal documents, including share transfer restrictions in articles of association and pre- and post-nuptial agreements, can help to mitigate these risks.

If you would like to know more about how to take your business to the next level then contact Tom Rowley, Partner in Freeths’ Platinum Service Team, on 0845 050 3206 or at tom.rowley@freeths.co.uk

www.freeths.co.uk BIRMINGHAM • DERBY • LEEDS • LEICESTER • LONDON • MANCHESTER • MILTON KEYNES • NOTTINGHAM OXFORD • SHEFFIELD • STOKE ON TRENT

ARE YOU IN CONTROL OF YOUR FINANCIAL FUTURE? We have the knowledge and expertise to help you successfully secure and enhance your financial future by offering specialist advice in a wide range of areas including Investment Planning, Inheritance Tax Planning and Retirement Planning.

SEAN DOWNS CHARTERED FINANCIAL PLANNER Partner Practice of St. James’s Place Wealth Management

The Partner Practice represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products.

The title ‘Partner Practice’ is the marketing term used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

Tel: 020 3862 0433 | Mob: 07855 742147 Email: sean.downs@sjpp.co.uk Web: www.seandownswealthmanagement.co.uk The Partner Practice represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products.

The title ‘Partner Practice’ is the marketing term used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

you’d be...

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Our assessments empower business leaders to transform the performance of their people, teams and cultures. Having been at the forefront of assessment innovation since 1981, our assessments are available in 56 languages and support clients in over 60 countries.

Speak to your consultant or contact us on 01628 475 366 or email info@thomas.co.uk

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THE HIGHEST PRIVATE MEMBERS CLUB IN LONDON! BASED IN THE HEART OF THE CITY AND SITUATED IN ONE OF LONDON’S MOST ICONIC SKYSCRAPERS. SEARCYS CLUB, THE GHERKIN IS ONE OF THE MOST UNIQUE AND EXCLUSIVE PRIVATE MEMBERS CLUBS. MEMBERSHIP ALLOWS YOU ACCESS TO A BEAUTIFUL CLUB LOUNGE, FINE DINING RESTAURANT AND ELEGANT BAR SITUATED UNDER THE WORLD RENOWNED ‘DOME’.

FOR READERS OF INSPIRATIONAL LONDON MAGAZINE WE ARE OFFERING A 14 MONTH MEMBERSHIP FOR THE PRICE OF 12. SIMPLY QUOTE: INSPIRATIONAL LONDON FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: THECLUB@SEARCYS.CO.UK OR CALL: 02070717215

Jack Hayes addresses guests

The showcase gets underway

Andrew Neil engages with guests

Champions After Dinner Speakers Political Showcase

Nigel Farage MEP alongside Sir Christopher Meyer and Sir Simon Gass

The speakers alongside Jack Hayes

The Gherkin, Central London

Tuesday 10 October 2017 Some of the country’s political heavyweights gathered at Searcys’ restaurant located on the top floor of London’s Gherkin for an exclusive networking breakfast. Organised

by Champions After Dinner Speakers, the political showcase saw Andrew Neil, Sir Christopher Meyer, Nigel Farage MEP and Sir Simon Gass debate the latest topics affecting the world of politics today.

Nigel Farage MEP meets a guest

Some of London’s most influential and successful business people attended, and after enjoying a delicious breakfast, former editor of The Sunday Times and Sunday Politics and Daily Politics host, Andrew Neil, took to the stage to give a talk.

Sir Simon Gass at the event

Following this, he and his fellow speakers took part in a lively political discussion and held a Q&A session. Sir Christopher Meyer is one of the world’s most respected diplomats who served as the UK’s Ambassador to the United States between 1997 and 2003. Nigel Farage MEP is well known as twice being the leader of the UK Independence Party and being a strong member of the ‘Leave’ campaign ahead of Britain’s EU referendum in 2016. Sir Simon Gass has held some of the biggest roles in international politics having worked as British Ambassador to Iran between 2009 and 2011. Most recently he was the Director General, Political, Foreign & Commonwealth Office.

The event was coordinated by Champions Speakers agency, and was thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended.

Derek Redmond enjoying the showcase

The view of London’s skyline

Andrew Neil puts a question to Nigel Farage

Sir Christopher Meyer answers a question

A guest taking part in the Q&A

Nigel Farage MEP chatting to guests

Guests watching speakers in action

Watching on as Andrew Neil talks

Searcys at the Gherkin hosted the event

Guests listen to the fascinating political speakers

Andrew Neil, Sir Simon Gass, Nigel Farage MEP and Sir Christopher Meyer before the event

The event was a great networking opportunity

Guests mingle at the Searcys’ Gherkin event

‘Eric and Little Ern’ with Mark Dolan

Benny Lawrence, James Cosmo and Natasha Giorgio

Charlie Ross auctioneering

In association with

Dorchester Charity Ball The Dorchester, London

Friday 2 June 2017 Charlotte Fox, The Chase’s Shaun Wallace & Scarlett Stacey

A host of celebrities from the world of entertainment were in attendance for the annual Rainbows Celebrity Charity Ball, at The Dorchester. The black-tie ‘Best of British’ themed night saw the likes of William Roache MBE, James Cosmo, Sinitta, Mark Dolan, Nina Wadia and Sam Bailey come together for an enjoyable night of fundraising at one of the capital’s most prestigious venues.

Claire Twells of Smith Partnership and Derek Redmond

With a Laurent-Perrier drinks reception greeting guests on arrival, The X Factor boyband Union J kickstarted proceedings by performing popular single ‘Carry You.’ Former 4x400m world champion Derek Redmond was on hosting duties on the night as guests took to their seats to enjoy a lavish four-course meal.

David Simms, Donna Hayes and Mia Simms

The five-star hotel provided the perfect backdrop for the event which raised much needed funds for Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People. The hospice supports children and their families with life-limiting and life-threatening illnesses. To help raise funds guests were invited to take part in a round of stand-up bingo with The Dorchester providing the prize.

Craig Phillips and Laura Sheriff

ICONIC HOTELS IN ICONIC PLACES

There was plenty of entertainment on offer over the course of the evening with a charity auction hosted by Charlie Ross. The X Factor winner, Sam Bailey performed a selection of songs from her hit nationwide tour. Popular British soul band Urban Intro concluded proceedings with an excellent R&B performance.

Champions (UK) plc are proud to have supported Rainbows for a number of years and have raised over £1m in funds for the charity through events such as The Dorchester’s Charity Ball.

NEW GLAMOUR

AT ITS BEST

THE PANORAMIC VIEWS. A STYLE STATEMENT. THE ART OF NOW. SEE AND BE SEEN. ACCLAIMED WOLFGANG PUCK RESTAURANT. 45 PARK LANE.

Rachael and Steve Glynn from Alea Casino

LONDON #DCmoments

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+44 20 7493 4545 45 Park LaneneUK

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Craig Phillips, Sinitta, James Cosmo and guests

DORCHESTERCOLLECTION.COM @45ParkLaneUK

@45parklane

Sinitta and William Roache MBE

Chris Darlington of Mazars, with guests, and William Roache MBE

KC Suri of Reel Cinemas and guests

Nina Wadia and Sam Bailey

Sean Downs of St James’s Place Wealth Management and guests

Douglas Dawson of Liberty and guests, with Mark Dolan

Talia Storm and guests

Simon and Rose Edgley

Victoria Marconetto-Tyson, Nicola and Stuart Littlewood, Sam Bailey, Andrew Ball and Matthew Hayes - Rainbows cheque presentation from Sam Bailey’s tour

Peter Shilton OBE and Steffi Shilton

William Hill table

Adrian Dixon perfoming at the awards

Guests were welcomed with a Champagne reception

Guests enjoying the Champagne reception

Derek Redmond and Simon Edgley at the Champagne reception

Emma Jesson and Mark Dolan, hosted the evening

Mercedes-Benz World

Wednesday 28 June 2017 Wednesday 28 June saw the Toast of Surrey Business Awards take place at Mercedes Benz World in Weybridge. Top business personalities from across the county attended the event to await the results of the 13 categories, which included ‘Company of the Year’, ‘New Business of the Year’ and ‘Leadership Team of the Year’.

Harvey Water Softeners winner of the Company of the Year Award

For the first time, the awards were organised and delivered by East Midlands agency, Champions (UK) plc, following their successful execution of a variety of yearly regional business and sports awards.

Kev Orkian entertained guests

As well a being hosted by comedian Mark Dolan and ITV weather presenter Emma Jesson, entertainment was on offer throughout the night from Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist and musician Kev Orkian.

Headline sponsor, Bizpedia

The evening was sponsored by a host of top businesses including: Jewson, Surrey Business School, Dunsfold Park, Institute of Directors, Champions After Dinner Speakers, Ramsac, Inspirational London, Charles Russell Speechlys, Surrey Chambers of Commerce, Bizpedia, Thomas International, JackFM, Choice Finance, Sandown Park, John Pye Auctions, PMGC, Equitrade Capital, Heathrow and Sean Downs of St James’s Place Wealth Management.

Headline sponsor, John Pye

SEAN DOWNS

Inspirational London table

Headline sponsor, Thomas International

Category Sponsor

2017 Winners COMPANY OF THE YEAR HARVEY WATER SOFTENERS SME BUSINESS OF THE YEAR ROCKSTEADY MUSIC SCHOOL

Paul Robbin of The Lord’s Taveners delivering his speech

NEW BUSINESS OF THE YEAR PARTY HARD TRAVEL DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR ROBERT MACMILLAN HH GLOBAL LIMITED LEADERSHIP TEAM OF THE YEAR GIBBS HYBRID WORKFORCE SOLUTIONS

Pinksheep Marketing Limited, winner of the Sales and Marketing Award

SERVICES AWARD AWARD DOCTOR PHOTO SALES & MARKETING AWARD PINKSHEEP MARKETING LIMITED SEAN DOWNS

EXCELLENCE IN INDUSTRY AWARD HYDRALECTRIC GROUP LTD Rocksteady Music School, winner of the SME Business of the Year

RETAIL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR CREATIVE NATURE CREATIVE COMMUNICATIONS & DIGITAL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR 22 CANS LTD INTERNATIONAL TRADE AWARD GOLD-i

Simon Edgley of Trinity Mirror delivering a speech

CONTRIBUTION TO THE COMMUNITY AWARD SAFER RUNNYMEDE, RUNNYMEDE BOROUGH COUNCIL NOT-FOR-PROFIT ORGANISATION AWARD RAINBOW TRUST CHILDREN’S CHARITY The tables are set for the Toast of Surrey Business Awards 2017

Alison Baum OBE from Best Beginnings speaking

Ben Ofoedu and Vanessa Feltz

British athlete, Perri Shakes-Drayton

LOND ON 2017

IN AID OF

I N A S S O C I AT I O N W I T H

England Rugby star, Maro Itoje

Jumeirah Carlton Tower, London

Derek Redmond and his wife, Maria

Wednesday 27 September 2017 A whole host of celebrities and rugby legends attended a glamorous black-tie charity ball at London’s luxurious Jumeriah Carlton Tower hotel raising money for not one but three worthy causes.

The event’s charity partners were Best Beginnings and Heads Together. Best Beginnings are dedicated to providing all children with the best start in life and committed to combating inequalities within children’s healthcare.

Faith Tucker performing

Heads Together are a charity supported by The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and HRH Prince Harry which raises awareness of mental health issues, tackling the stigma surrounding these conditions and helping people overcome their problems.

Dynamo performing

Money was also raised for Restart Rugby, a charity supporting professional players who have been forced to retire due to injury or illness.

The event, supported by Champions (UK) plc, was attended by a variety of stars including; Mike Tindall MBE, Maro Itoje, Gregg Wallace, Zinzan Brooke MNZM, Vanessa Feltz, Charlie Webster, and Tamara and Petra Ecclestone.

As Best Beginnings’ celebrity ambassador, Tamara gave a talk on why the charity’s work is so important.

Gregg Wallace and Mike Tindall MBE

James Haskell enjoying the event

Jay Rutland and Tamara Ecclestone

The Best Beginnings charity team

Petra and Tamara Ecclestone

Room ready for guests to arrive

West Ham defender Jose Fonte and his wife Cassie Sumner Fonte

Q&A with Zinzan Brooke, Maro Itoje and Ian Stafford

TV presenter, Charlie Webster

Mad Hen - the evening’s entertainment

Will Greenwood’s wife Caroline

Tamara Ecclestone speaking about the charity, Best Beginnings

The evening’s compere, Ian Stafford

2017 Farmfoods British Par 3 Champion, Richard O’Hanlon

Brian Mcfadden watches his shot

Dominic Holland and Gary Wolstenholme MBE

In association with

Nailcote Hall, Warwickshire

8 - 11 August 2017 Faith Tucker showcases her stunning vocals

This year marked the 84th edition of the Championship and saw a whole host of professional golfers and celebrities take part. Alongside tournament host Tony Jacklin CBE, golfing legends including Ian Woosnam OBE, Dame Laura Davies, Jamie Donaldson, Costantino Rocca and Paul Lawrie OBE all took on the Cromwell Course.

Gordon Strachan OBE tees off

This year saw the most stellar line-up of celebrities the event has ever seen which included the likes of Mike Tindall MBE, Robbie Fowler, Andrew Cole, Nigel Mansell CBE, William Roache MBE, Len Goodman, Brian McFadden, Dan Walker, Naga Munchetty, Sinitta and James and Oliver Phelps.

Tony Jacklin CBE and his wife Astrid attening the celebrity dinner

2010 champion Richard O’Hanlon was victorious in this year’s Pro-Am which had to be reduced to nine holes on the first day after rain battered the course. An overall score of -5 was enough for Richard to scoop the €50,000 winning prize fund and the title of Farmfoods British Par 3 champion once again. The Norma C Herd Silver Salver which is awarded to the best scoring amateur was won

by Michael Lawrie, the son of former Open winner Paul Lawrie.

Keith Duffy and Brian McFadden entertain guests

The winner of the first Celeb-Am was Scottish rugby star Max Evans whose two birdies were enough to give him a score of 0 and crown him the winner. The week concluded with ex-Liverpool striker Robbie Fowler winning the final Celeb-Am. The fun was also carried across to the evening too, with a range of celebrity dinners and galas organised by Champions (UK) plc. These included a stunning blacktie gala ball hosted by Perrier award-winning comedian Dominic Holland and charity auctions raising much needed funds for Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People.

INSPIRATIONAL CATCH

Kriss Akabusi waving to the crowds

magazine

Tony Jacklin CBE, and Eric Herd present Michael Lawrie with his award

Rick Cressman, Andy Cummings, Tracy Meredith-Cummings, Oliver Phelps, and James Phelps

Nigel Mansell CBE enjoyed the week

Len Goodman on the Cromwell course

Maria and Derek Redmond at the charity dinner

Mike Tindall MBE on the tee

Robbie Fowler was victorious in the Celeb-Am

Sinitta enjoying her BP3 debut

Amy Boulden and Carly Booth before the evening gets underway

John Hartson watches his swing

Peter Shilton OBE and wife Steph enjoy the evening

Kev Orkian entertaining the crowds

Tony Jacklin CBE, Paul Lawrie and Dame Laura Davies

William Roache MBE watching on

Host, Derek Redmond

Champions After-Dinner Speakers Director, Jack Hayes welcoming guests

David Hunt, Julian Tighe and Lorraine Harfitt

Networking Breakfast Guest speaker, Tim Shipman

The Gherkin, Central London

Derek Redmond speaking with Cat Mitchell

Tuesday 23 May 2017 Located on the 30th and 40th floor of the iconic, The Gherkin, Searcys is a private members-only club which provided a lavish backdrop for an exclusive networking breakfast. Towering over the city skyline, Searcys offers a panoramic view of the city – and when the sun shines, it really is a sight to behold.

The event, which was in association with brand agency Champions (UK) plc, took place on Tuesday 23 May beginning at 8am until 10am and focused around the topic of ‘Brexit and beyond’.

Jeremy Sutton and Jay Patel

The event kicked off with half an hour of networking which saw the 100 guests mingle and settle into the morning’s proceedings. Guests were then seated for a breakfast of scrambled eggs with smoked salmon and avocado.

Alan Mann and Cat Mitchell

While guests dined, Tim Shipman, the political editor at The Sunday Times, addressed them with a speech on the morning’s theme followed by a Q&A session.

The guests, 50 of whom were guests of the Searcys networking club and 50 from Champions (UK) plc, engaged with Tim during the Q&A where they were able to tap into his knowledge and gain insight into what the future holds for the UK following Brexit.

Some of the guests in attendance came from businesses including leading law firm, Hogan Lovells, Thomas International, The Dorchester Collection, Trinity Mirror, the O2 and St James’s Place Wealth Management.

Jo Stevenson and Fari Rome

The morning drew to a close with another 30 minutes of networking. The event was highly regarded and has received great reviews from the attendees.

Pastries ready for guests

Shez Cheema, MD of PMGC questioning Tim Shipman

Keith Sidaway, Cameron McMillan and Drew McMillan

Kimberly Moss, Lindsay Johnston, Robert Eamey and Tim Shipman

Parminder Latimer and Rachael Oakes from Freeths

Views from The Gherkin

Engaging Q&A with Tim Shipman

John Hayes, Matthew Hayes and David Simms

Shez Cheema, MD of PMGC networking at the Champions event

Searchys at The Gherkin

Guests networking over breakfast at Searcys

Guest takes part in Q&A with Tim Shipman

Derek Redmond and Kriss Akabusi MBE

Eric Herd of Farmfoods with guests, Bernard Gallacher OBE and Peter Baker

presents

Brabazon Course, The Belfry Janine Edwards of Janine Edwards Wealth Management Ltd with guests and Mark Regan MBE

Tuesday 5 September 2017

Dominic Holland, Peter Baker and Cat Mitchell

A whole host of stars from the world of sport and entertainment came together at Sutton Coldfield’s Belfry Hotel & Resort for Tony Jacklin CBE’s annual charity golf day. The Belfry’s Brabazon course is famed for the four times it has hosted the Ryder Cup. Located in the picturesque Warwickshire countryside, it was the backdrop for Europe’s first ever triumph in the competition.

In Tony’s absence, this year the event was hosted by Europe’s victorious 1995 Ryder Cup captain Bernard Gallacher OBE and saw a range of famous faces take part including: Mike Tindall MBE, Derek Redmond, Kriss Akabusi MBE, Dan Walker, Roy Walker, Alan McInally and Thom and Max Evans. Sponsors Paradise Promotions hosted a rum tasting workshop on the first tee in what proved to be a wonderful day of golf.

Dominic Holland hosting the evening

Following the day’s play, guests were treated to a Champagne reception before enjoying a delicious three course gourmet meal. The evening also saw some fantastic entertainment hosted by Perrier award-winning comedian Dominic Holland. After the main course, The X-Factor’s 2013 winner Sam Bailey performed before comedian Ian Irving entertained audiences with a hilarious comedy set.

Katie Niland of The Belfry with guests, Thom and Max Evans

All money raised on the day was donated to Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People who care for children suffering with life-threatening and life-limiting illnesses.

Maurice Addison of M2K, Tyrone Hanlon of Tiger Foods with guests, Chris Broad and Alan McInally

Event host, Bernard Gallacher OBE

Bentley at the Belfry, from Bentley Leicester

William Hill guests and Don Goodman

Stand Up Bingo winner - Tim Reed of Bentley Leicester

Entertainment included steel drums

Mike Tindall MBE

The team gather for a photo

Sam Bailey performing

The Belfry team enjoying the day

Philip De Freitas, Sean Cook and John Hayes

Don Goodman at the event

Ian Irving performing

2017 Winners BEST SOCIAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN MediaCom North

Category Sponsor

BEST SEARCH CAMPAIGN BlueGlass & Expedia BEST PR CAMPAIGN Reddico Dominic Holland and Champions (UK) plc’s Matthew Hayes with Digital Agency of the Year, Click Consult

Amelia Neate announcing a winner

BEST NOT-FOR-PROFIT CAMPAIGN Click Consult & Oxfam BEST EVENT Canvas Conference by 383 Project BEST NEW BUSINESS CAMPAIGN Engine

In association with

The Media Com North team celebrate with Dominic Holland and Amelia Neate

BEST AGENCY WEBSITE Found - found.co.uk

Category Sponsor

Category Sponsor

BEST MARKETING STRATEGY FOR AGENCY GROWTH BEcause - Building love for our brand

The UK Agency Awards 2017 Montcalm Marble Arch, London

CAMPAIGN EFFECTIVENESS AWARD Crafted & Generator Hostels

Wednesday 13 September 2017

BEST AGENCY CULTURE Kin&Co

Category Sponsor

RISING AGENCY STAR AWARD Returning for its third year, the UK Agency Awards 2017 Atticus “Maximus” Peart celebrated the very best creative, design, digital marketing, advertising, media and public relations agencies across the BIDDABLE MEDIA AGENCY OF THE YEAR country.

Merkle|Periscopix

Guests eagerly await the winners

With 22 awards up for grabs, the awards acknowledge the DIGITAL AGENCY OF outstanding contribution that agencies make to the industry.

THE YEAR This year’s event took place at one of London’s most lavish Click Consult locations, the Montcalm Marble Arch. The venue is located in one of the most famous parts of the capital and the B2B AGENCY OF THE YEAR awards took place in the building’s stunning Grand Ballroom. Stein IAS Guests were welcomed with drinks upon arrival before being treated to a delicious three-course meal. The event was hosted by one of the UK’s most well-loved comedians Dominic Holland who oversaw proceedings in his own hilarious style.

Dominic Holland, Amelia Neate and Engine

Influencer Champions, an agency that pairs top influencers with high-profile brands, were on board this year as event sponsors supporting the ‘Best Social Media Campaign’ award. This award recognised a successful social media campaign that was innovative and stood out above all others.

Category Sponsor

SEARCH AGENCY OF THE YEAR Epiphany SOCIAL MEDIA AGENCY OF THE YEAR Born Social MEDIA AGENCY OF THE YEAR M&C Saatchi Mobile MARKETING AGENCY OF THE YEAR Intermarketing Agency

The winners of this award were MediaCom North for their #NaughtyFriday campaign for women’s clothing brand PR AGENCY OF THE YEAR CubanEight Missguided.

Photography: Don’t Panic / The Art of New Business / Barney Newman

INNOVATIVE AGENCY OF THE YEAR WeAreFearless.

MOST IMPRESSIVE SMALL AGENCY GROWTH The Honey Partnership

Influencer Champions’ table

MOST IMPRESSIVE LARGE AGENCY GROWTH Hogarth Worldwide

Category Sponsor

THE INFLUENCER AGENCY influencerchampions.com Contact us today on aneate@influencerchampions.com O8453 31 3O 31 @InfluencerChampions

@InfluencerChampions

@Influencer_Ch

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