The Chiswick Magazine June 2019 edition.

CHISWICK T H E

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M A G A Z I N E

June 2019 | Complimentary

MASTERS OF BALLET A unique performance on Turnham Green

Laurent ROURE Meditation, breathwork and pranayama class at Zen Maitri

St Michael’s PLAYERS Celebrating 70 years Chiswick FOOD MARKET W4’s popular foody event William MORRIS Kelmscott House exhibition

Travel THAILAND A trip to Tongsai Bay on Koh Samui

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THE CHISWICK MAGAZINE | June 2019

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7 - 9 JUNE 2019 CHISWICK HOUSE & GARDENS

CHISWICKPROMS.CO.UK BOX OFFICE • 0870 780 0425

COMEDY MUSICALS CLASSICAL FREE WORKSHOPS

JASON MANFORD

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RUTHIE HENSHALL

LESLEY GARRETT

CLARE BALDING

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THE CHISWICK MAGAZINE | June 2019

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CONTENTS 6. The Chiswick Diary Information on a selection of the exciting events taking place in Chiswick this month

10. Chiswick Oasis

ABOUT LOCALS, FOR LOCALS, BY LOCALS

CHISWICK ®

T H E

M A G A Z I N E

is brought to you by

Meet the man behind the Chiswick Oasis project

EDITOR 14. St Michael’s Players 70th anniversary with an open-air production of Salad Days

16. Chiswick Food Market Chiswick’s community driven food market

18. Zen Maitri A review of Laurent Roure’s breathwork, pranayama and meditation class

20. Photo story ‘The dear warp and weft at Hammersmith’: A History of Kelmscott House exhibition

Áine McGinty aine@chiswickmagazine.co.uk

FEATURES EDITOR Katie Saunders katie@chiswickmagazine.co.uk

ADVERTISING Simon Hossack simon@chiswickmagazine.co.uk

DESIGN/PUBLISHER Paul Williams paul@chiswickmagazine.co.uk

30. Eleanor Ford A recipe from the Hammersmith author

32. Young at Art Celia Pickering’s inspirational art classes for kids

36. Health & Well-being HCA Healthcare sponsored feature

38. Travel

PWR Media Unit 22, 295 Chiswick High Road London, UK W4 4TT. Telephone: 020 3623 0567

© PWR Media 2019. THE CHISWICK MAGAZINE is published by PWR Media. Registerd office Unit 22, 295 Chiswick High Road London W4 4TT. chiswickmagazine.co.uk.

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Tongsai Bay in Koh Samui Thailand

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THE CHISWICK MAGAZINE | June 2019

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N O T E

F R O M

T H E

E D I T O R

Dear Readers, Welcome to the June edition of The Chiswick Magazine.

Chiswick is buzzing this month with the Bedford Park Festival and a series of other fantastic events to keep us all busy. Events like the Bedford Park Festival, MOBA’s presentation of Cipollino and the Chiswick Oasis summer celebration are truly what makes Chiswick a special place to live and work.

In fact, I feel most lucky when I’m out and about on the High Road conducting various interviews and meetings- particularly when I get to leave the office and sample some of our wonderful cafes, or pubs, on a Friday of course…

One Friday recently I had an amazing visit to a bustling Chateau for some lunch and to type up some words before popping along to an even busier The George IV for something a little stronger and it struck me just how lucky we are to have such an array of places to socialise here in W4. Perhaps the next Friday I pop in there I might see some of you… do say hello.

Anyway, I hope you all enjoy this month’s magazine. Have a great month. Áine x

Áine McGinty Editor Áine is also the Editor of The Chiswick Herald

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@chiswickmagazine |

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The views of the writers and interviewees in THE CHISWICK MAGAZINE are not necessarily the views of the publisher. All images have been used with permission of the copyright owner. Any imagery supplied by a third party eg advertising, marketing or pr agency, will be published on the understanding the images have been supplied for publication with the permisson of the copyright owner. Any imagery that incurs copyright infringement, the supplier of that image (s) will be held responsible and liable for any royalties or licence fees. The contributor acknowledges that material submitted may be published in any publication or on any website owned by PWR Media. By submitting material to THE CHISWICK MAGAZINE, PWR Media is automatically granted the royalty-free, perpetual, irrevocable right and licence to use, reproduce, edit, distribute and display such material, in whole or part and/or to incorporate it in other works in any form, media, or technology now known or later developed for the full term of any rights that may exist in such content.

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The Chiswick Diary Every Sunday: The Food Market

7th-23rd June: The Bedford Park Festival

7th-9th June: Chiswick Proms

A Dukes Meadows Trust initiative, The Food Market ‘‘opens every Sunday come rain or shine!’’

The 53rd Bedford Park Festival ‘Chiswick’s favourite fortnight’ - runs from Friday 7 June until Sunday 23 June, with the Green Days Fete and Craft Fair on 8 and 9 June.

The Chiswick Proms, a brand-new open-air festival celebrating comedy, musical theatre and classical music, taking place at Chiswick House & Gardens.

Each year, thousands of people enjoy the traditional village Green Days Fete and Craft Fair, which is great fun for all the family. The weekend includes a bandstand with live music and entertainment, fairground rides and games, food & drink, a craft fair with 20 exhibitors offering a wide selection of high-quality craftworks, many different types of stalls, competitions; a Family Cycle Zone, which offers cycling advice, free bike maintenance and a raffle to win a bicycle; and an Electric Vehicle Zone. For children, there’s a five-a-side football tournament and a fancy dress competition (theme: Musicals), as well as face painting, games and activities in the children’s corner.

The 3-day open-air festival comprises ‘Chiswick Does Comedy’ on the Friday night, starring comedy legends Jason Manford and Shappi Khorsandi, ‘Chiswick at the Musicals’ on the Saturday night, starring leading lady Ruthie Henshall and a host of West End stars, and ‘Last Night of the Chiswick Proms’ on the Sunday, starring Britain’s most cherished soprano Lesley Garrett and the Chiswick Proms Orchestra.

Each week, approximately 25 top producers from around the country come to Chiswick to sell their produce.

Attend one this month and meet the producers who are more than willing to talk to you about their produce and often give you great recipe ideas. In Chiswick, every producer takes time and effort into producing the very best of their product.

Where: Dukes Meadows Trust Pavilion Car Park, Market Drive, off Alexandra Gardens, Chiswick, W4 2RX For more information visit thefoodmarketchiswick.com

5th-23rd June: The Importance of Being Earnest at the Tabard Theatre This new, uproarious production of Oscar Wilde’s timeless tour-de-farce breathes life into one of the most immaculately crafted stage comedies of all time.

Prepare to take a jovial joyride of double lives and double entendres as town and country collide, throwing love, logic and language into the air - a Wilde-ly funny story of handbags, cucumber sandwiches and absolutely nobody called Ernest.

Green Days is followed by a fortnight of talks, walks, music and drama performances and social events.

The Bedford Park Festival is run by St Michael and All Angels Church and raises money for charities and the church’s work, with the support of the Chiswick community and local businesses.

To find out more and to book tickets visit www.bedfordparkfestival.org

To book visit tabardtheatre.co.uk

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For times and to purchase tickets visit www.chiswickproms.co.uk

7th June: Sam Peggs at The Airedale Bar Sam Peggs ‘The Piano Man’ returns to send you some chilled, jazzy piano vibes on Friday, 7 June at The Airedale Bar. Doors open at 18:00. Happy hour from 19:00-20:00.

Members and non-members welcome.

The Hogarth Club, Airedale Avenue, Chiswick, W4 2NW.

Shows take place Tuesday - Saturday 19:30 with Saturday matinee at 16:00 and Sunday matinee at 14:00.

Tickets cost £23.50 or £19.50 concessions.

There will also be a family show on Saturday afternoon where children go free. The perennial favourite by Sergei Prokofiev, Peter and the Wolf, helps children to enjoy the experience of going to a concert by making it fun and entertaining.

Fergal Keane and Torin Douglas at last year’s event

GET YOUR EVENT LISTED CALL 020 3623 0567

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The Chiswick Diary 21st June: Midsummer Jazz Cruise

25th-29th June: Open-air production of Salad Days

Chiswick Pier Trust are celebrating the summer solstice by organising a jazz cruise. Join them on Friday, 21 June when they will be departing from Chiswick Pier at 19:15 and sailing to Tower Bridge and back.

St Michael’s Players have been entertaining Chiswick audiences since 1949.

On board to serenade you whilst you sail the Thames will be the popular jazz band Anacousis. During the cruise a delicious two course buffet supper will be served and refreshments will be available to purchase from the bar on board. Leaving in daylight on a summers evening and returning watching the magic of London by night - this is the perfect way to enjoy the River Thames on a midsummer evening.

This June, within the gardens of St Paul’s Church W4, St Michael’s Players celebrate their 70th anniversary with a spectacular open-air production of the hit musical Salad Days.

The gardens will be transformed with tiered audience seating, full surround sound and magical lighting!

Tickets are now on sale and cost £47.

If that wasn’t enough to entice you there will be a bar, a BBQ and if you book for opening night, on Tuesday 25 June you will be wowed before the show by the amazing retro a cappella trio The Decibelles.

To book please visit chiswickpier.org. uk or call 020 8742 2713/07594 596 729.

Please note that this is a popular event so early booking is advisable.

Days is a Srunsalad magical show that at high speed,

23rd June: Kitchen Garden Open Day at Chiswick House Visit the walled Kitchen Garden and enjoy its plentiful displays of flowers and produce. The open day takes place from 11:00-15:30. Free entry.

The walled gardens at Chiswick House are not part of the public park but they can be visited and enjoyed on their regular open days when volunteers are on hand to answer questions and talk about the garden and its development as well as volunteering opportunities.

Visitors will also be able to purchase Kitchen Garden produce, herbs and plants.

All funds raised support the continued preservation of Chiswick House Gardens.

Chiswick House, Chiswick, London W4 2QN, UK.

filled to the brim with fabulous characters...

Salad Days follows a young couple fresh from university, seeking to find their place in life and work. They encounter a colourful array of characters, including a mysterious tramp who loans them a magical piano which, when played, makes anyone in the vicinity spontaneously dance!

“Salad Days is a magical show that runs at high speed, filled to the brim with fabulous characters, memorable songs and at times it is completely absurd, but that’s what makes it so wonderful.

This is the first time; we believe, that Salad Days has ever been performed outdoors and so for a landmark show of its time, it’s only fitting that we make our 70th anniversary show a landmark production!” Marc Pearce – Director.

Celebrate with St Michael’s Players this June and experience the magic of this toe tapping, summer spectacular!

Tickets can be purchased via ticketsource.co.uk/smp

26th June: Watercolour Painting Day Having hosted numerous very popular and successful workshops with Julia Cassels, Chiswick Pier Trust will be holding another on 26 June at Chiswick Pier.

Julia will be working with watercolours and this workshop is suitable for beginners right through to the more experienced artist.

The class starts at 09.30 and will finish at 16:00.

The fee for the day is £35 (£32 for Chiswick Pier Trust members). Please bring your own materials and a packed lunch. Refreshments will be available to purchase.

Call 02087422713 to book a place. For more details visit chiswickpier.org.uk

27th June: Urban Food Fest Market at Chiswick Park On Thursday, 27 June, Chiswick Park will hold their regular Urban Food Fest market.

Expect a Glastonbury hippy themed line-up of gourmet street food trucks serving a plethora of delicious dishes, cuisines and flavours.

This takes place at their events plaza from 12:00-15:00.

27th June: Double Bill at the Tabard Theatre The Tabard presents a double bill of comedy - that’s two sets for one ticket!

Musical comedy duo and sisters Flo & Joan and Jacob Hawley.

Show starts at 19:30. Tickets are just £10. tabardtheatre.co.uk

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Healthcare with you at the heart

To learn more or to RSVP, visit:

Chiswick Medical Centre

Call 020 3993 8002 Proud to be part of the HCA Healthcare UK group:

Leaders in Oncology Care | London Bridge Hospital | The Harley Street Clinic | The Lister 8

THE CHISWICK MAGAZINE | June 2019

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From women’s health to diagnostic imaging for paediatric concerns, at Chiswick Medical Centre our leading consultants offer world-class healthcare at a local level.

Our highly specialised, one-stop Breast Unit offers patients a comprehensive, triple assessment breast screening service, and includes a self-referral option available to all those who meet the relevant criteria.

MEET OUR EXPERTS Let’s Talk: Women’s Health Evening Thursday 20th June 6.30pm-8.00pm Understanding Children’s Growth and Development Tuesday 25th June 7.00pm-8.30pm

r Hospital | The Portland Hospital | The Princess Grace Hospital | The Wellington Hospital THE CHISWICK MAGAZINE | June 2019

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Local Life

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The Chiswick

OASIS Project The Chiswick Oasis project has been in the news for months after raising an astonishing £75,000 to build a living wall along the perimeter of Saint Mary’s Catholic Primary School, in a bid to turn one of the most polluted schools in London into one of the greenest. We speak to the parent behind it all, Andrea Carnevali, ahead of the project’s launch at the end of this month.

Andrea with his son Giovanni

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ndrea, an editor for arts and history programmes moved to Chiswick from East Acton with his family just under three years ago. ‘‘I don’t think I want to move anywhere else now really. I really, really like it here. I love the community aspect of Chiswick. The fact that it feels like living in a small village but in London and that’s quite an unbeatable feeling.’’

The idea for the Chiswick Oasis project first came about over a year ago when Andrea was watching his son playing outside in the playground at Saint Mary’s with the noise of the cars from the A4 ruining the moment. In 2017, Saint Mary’s was actually listed in the top 50 most polluted schools in London and it just so happens that Andrea’s realisation came just as local MP Ruth Cadbury tweeted about the issue of air pollution in Chiswick.

Andrea invited the MP to head along to the school, she quickly accepted and this Andrea says was the catalyst for everything else.

Following months of research and successful campaigning including a host of celebrity endorsements, the group raised their target including receiving £32,000 from the Mayor of London as a result of crowdfunding on Spacehive.

“I love the community aspect of Chiswick”

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Work has finally started on the living wall but these determined parents have not stopped there. They have introduced a ‘No Cars Friday’ initiative in a bid to encourage parents not to drive to school as well as purchasing air purifiers for inside the school and exploring the use of a paint called Airlite which is said to drastically reduce air pollution. ‘‘It’s very easy to sit down and say the government should be doing more... but let’s do something ourselves as well and in my little corner of Chiswick I’ve been trying to do as much as I possibly can,’’ says Andrea. The idea could soon spread to other parts of west London as the team are busy producing a booklet to spread around to other schools so that they can see what the Chiswick Oasis project has achieved and how. Saint Mary’s might be included in lists of the most polluted schools but Andrea says this is a problem in the whole of the UK and thus one that other parents can look to a make difference towards.

Andrea hadn’t always been so environmentally conscious. ‘‘Something happens to you when you have a child, it doesn’t matter how much you think you know yourself, your life changes completely, your point of view changes completely. And all of a sudden he’s the only thing that matters,’’ says Andrea. Thinking about his six-year-old son, Giovanni, was what pushed Andrea to open his eyes and think about what he could do to help.

Local Life

He was recently awarded for his efforts by the previous Mayor of Hounslow, Councillor Samia Chaudhary, at the Community Champion Reception in the Mayor’s Parlour in the old Hounslow Civic Centre. The award he received recognises individuals who have carried out outstanding work in the local community.

This was ‘‘just incredibly humbling and so unexpected,’’ says Andrea.

As praise for Andrea and the other parents mounts up and their project continues to expand, it is hard to know what is next for the Chiswick Oasis project but what we do know is that this is one determined man who might just succeed in his mission of cleaning up the air for Chiswick’s children…

Chiswick Oasis will be holding a huge summer fair with a twist at Saint Mary’s on Saturday, 29 June. Unsurprisingly, the theme of this fair will be sustainability and environment. The plan is to get bands playing and two local celebrities have already signed up, Jeremy Vine and Clare Balding.

Although the air pollution headlines are upsetting to read, this is a time to celebrate a community coming together to do their bit to improve the lives of local children.

To keep up to date with the project visit chiswickoasis.com Further donations for the ever-expanding project can be made at gofundme.com/chiswickoasis

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OPEN MORNINGS

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Local Life

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Seventy years of drama in Chiswick St Michael’s Players, the non-professional theatre company, based at St Michael’s Centre, Elmwood Road, Chiswick is one of London’s longest-standing drama groups.

They perform four plays a year, welcome up to 1200 audience members and are a cherished part of the local community.

We speak to Fleur de Henrie Pearce, Publicity and Social Media Manager for St Michael’s Players about their upcoming production.

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t Michael’s Players have been entertaining Chiswick audiences since 1949 and now as part of their 70th anniversary celebrations they are about to do something quite extraordinary. This June, within the gardens of St Paul’s Church W4, they will be celebrating their anniversary with a spectacular open-air production of the hit musical Salad Days. The gardens of St Paul’s will be transformed with tiered audience seating, full surround sound and magical lighting.

The drama group have built a strong reputation for producing high quality productions that are affordable in a local community space and people continue to support them locally but also from further afield than Chiswick.

Their membership also continues to grow, they have just over 50 members, some who have been with the group for decades and others who have just joined. Fleur herself has been with the group for 10 years. ‘‘Once you become part of the fold of St Michael’s Players it’s very hard to leave,’’ she says. Members can perform on stage, help backstage or with front of house, there is always something to do and the group love to see new people joining to help them grow and to keep the diversity of what they can do going. ‘‘It’s about bringing people from the community together, people who are like minded, who love entertaining, who love and are passionate about the theatre and want to do it in their spare time,’’ says Fleur.

Father Kevin with Pirates of the Caribbean star Kevin McNally

Local Life

St Michael’s Players was set up in 1949 when there was a lot of commitment to do things to move on after the Second World War - they decided to use local entertainment as a way of bringing the community together and their first performance Painted Sparrows was showcased to audiences in Chiswick. ‘‘It obviously was a terrific idea and it’s really a tribute to those who started it that St Michael’s Players has gone from strength to strength throughout the years and has such a wonderful following to this day,’’ says Fleur.

Their latest production, Fleur says, is unlike anything audiences will have seen St Michael’s Players do before - this is their first time attempting a full blown musical and they are pushing their boundaries much further than they ever have before because they wanted to do something truly memorable and make their 70th anniversary show a landmark production.

Salad Days is colourful, fun and nostalgic harking back to the time when St Michael’s Players was formed so audiences will be transformed back to that time. It follows a young couple fresh from university seeking to find their place in life and work. They encounter a colourful array of characters including a mysterious tramp who loans them a magical piano which when played makes anyone in the vicinity spontaneously dance. It is a show that appeals to all ages.

TheSalad Bedford Park Festival from29 June Days: Tuesday 25 -runs Saturday June7th to June 23rd 2019.

Tickets and full programme details are Doors 19:00 | Show 19:45 - Tickets from £10 available bedfordparkfestival.org St Paul’satChurch Gardens, 56-62 Grove Park Rd, Chiswick, W4 3SD. Tickets can be bought at ticketsource.co.uk/smp

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Local Life

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The Food Market 16

THE CHISWICK MAGAZINE | June 2019

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Local Life

For part of this month’s local life, we speak to Kathleen Healy, the Development Manager for Dukes Meadows Trust and one of those behind setting up The Food Market Chiswick back in 2000.

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he Food Market Chiswick was set up as a social enterprise in a bid to raise money to improve the park and to encourage people to visit, the regeneration of the park was led by Dukes Meadows Trust who have created a beautiful riverside location. Since 2000, they have raised over £1 million to create play areas and have planted hedgerows, wildflower meadows and an orchard in order to increase the biodiversity of the park.

Local people have always been ‘‘really supportive’’ of the initiative, in fact on the first day, The Food Market Chiswick began at 10am and the stallholders had all sold out by around half 12! Kathleen was pleased to report that it is continuing to do well. The market is now an integral part of the shopping week for many Chiswick residents.

She says the market is ‘‘a real nice little community hub’’ stating that not only does it provide fresh produce to an area of Chiswick that is away from the High Road and doesn’t otherwise have it but it also acts as a meeting place. Of course with its proximity to the park, people can come and walk their dogs, take their children or attend on their own. In fact, one of the stallholders, Pads & Paws, sells natural homemade dog treats. If you don’t wish to do your weekly shop, you can also head along for a coffee or even a spot of lunch as another stallholder, Pizza Maria sells woodfired pizza.

Those are just two of the fantastic stallholders in Chiswick - there is also Ted’s Veg, March House Farm and Ringden Farms who are amongst those who have been with The Food Market Chiswick since the very start, a testament to the success of the initiative.

Approximately 25 producers come to Chiswick from around the country to sell a wide variety of produce. The producers are more than willing to talk to visitors about their produce and are even keen to give great recipe ideas. This is something that The Food Market Chiswick prides itself on. One of the aims of the market was to increase farm incomes and produce high quality local and seasonal foods to urban communities who would then be able to find out more about the food they are buying.

The money coming from the weekly market is what keeps the park looking how it does now. But as well as this, there are a team of volunteers who run the trust and help to maintain the park. Volunteers meet in the Dukes Meadows Community Centre car park at 11:00 every Sunday. Why not lend a hand one Sunday morning?

Kathleen also organises a range of free events for local people to enjoy and they are back again this summer. On Sunday, 21 July from 10:00-14:00 farm animals will once again be visiting Chiswick. On Sunday, 11 August there will be Punch & Judy shows at 11:00, 13:00 and 15:00. Whilst on 25 August, Birds of Prey will visit the market from 10:00-13:00 with the birds flown from 13:30.

The Food Market Chiswick runs every Sunday ‘‘come rain or shine’’ from 12:00-14:00.

More info at thefoodmarketchiswick.com and Instagram @thefoodmarketchiswick

Fresh veg is always a draw for locals

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Local Life

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Find your Zen Senior yoga teacher Laurent Roure runs weekly breathwork, pranayama and meditation classes at Zen Maitri’s Naural Health Apothecary in Turnham Green.

We were invited along to learn more and to review the class.

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aurent has been practicing yoga for thirty-five years and teaching for ten. He was delighted when Zen Maitri approached him for this collaboration ‘‘those guys had an incredible concept,’’ he says when talking about Zen Maitri’s integrated approach to healthcare combining herbal medicine with nutrition, meditation, breathwork and pranayama. The point of being a yoga teacher, for Laurent at least, is to be able to help people and this combination gives people a variety of tools to help them feel healthier.

Laurent’s classes are just one element of Zen Maitri’s ambition to become a hub for health and well-being in the local community.

Zen Maitri say that when practised on a regular basis, pranayama (the ancient yogic discipline of controlled breathing), breathwork (a secular, more modern interpretation) and meditation have all be linked to improved mental resilience against stress, anxiety and more.

The reason why Laurent combines breathwork, meditation and pra nayama, he says, is because breathing is the bridge between the body and meditation and breathing helps you to concentrate when meditating. Laurent believes that by learning how to control our breathing in a voluntary and conscious manner we can access our own toolbox of health and vitality aids. Not only can his practice help with issues such as stress and anxiety but Laurent has also taught this practice to people with cancer and people who have simply been able to reco nise that they are not breathing correctly.

Local Life

The class I attended was about grounding and connecting with our breathing to help us relax and release tension, certainly ideal for a busy week. I was apprehensive about attending the class as apart from a few attempts with apps on my phone, the practice is completely new to me but I was immediately put at ease by Laurent.

He always starts with a little bit of a discussion to help him connect with those he is teaching, which personally did help me to relax and prepare for the class ahead.

The class began with spinal breathing meditation - the objective of this is disconnect with the external world and to dive inwards. Using a mental scan, you go through the physical body, the sensations and breathing. I had come straight from the office to the class so found this technique a fantastic way of distancing myself from thoughts and planning.

The next section of the class was 3-part breathing with movements, a pranayama technique which helps us to connect with the three different ways the body is breathing: diaphragmatic, thoracic and clavicular breathing. For this we used different movements of the arms for each breath before joining the three movements in one flow and ending with a ten minute silent meditation.

The class finished with mindfulness meditation, we went to the floor and used exhalation to release different parts of the body, moving from the feet up to the head. Following the body scan we then rested in total silence for ten minutes. I usually find it quite hard to sit still but Laurent’s class certainly made this easy. I left Zen Maitri feeling like a completely different person - after just one hour!

Not only does Laurent put you at ease but the minimalistic serene basement studio where the class takes place also helps. It is an intimate class with the potential to fit between eight to ten people. He says that this helps him to have more care for each person making him more aware of each person’s difficulties meaning he is able to assist on a nearly one-to-one level.

Laurent is available before the group class if you do need more support on a one-to-one basis and there are also family meditation classes offered at Zen Maitri.

Group classes take place every Thursday at 18:30 and cost £20 per person. Zen Maitri also offer a bundle of 10 classes for £150. Bookings can be made in-store, by phone (020 8994 0798) or via the booking form at zenmaitri.com

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Photo Story

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Kelmscott House ‘The dear warp and weft at Hammersmith’: A History of Kelmscott House exhibition

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he area of Hammersmith by the river towards Ravenscourt Park is well known for its artistic heritage. The homes of Edward Johnston, designer of the London Underground logo, of Emery Walker, photographer and typographer, and of the great arts & crafts designer William Morris are all to be found in the area.

Now an exhibition at the William Morris Society, in the coach house of Morris’s former home Kelmscott House on Upper Mall, celebrates both his legacy and that of others who lived in the house before and after him. ‘The Dear Warp and Weft at Hammersmith’ conveys the atmosphere of a property bursting with creative and artistic activity, the exhibition features original Morris & Co designs, textiles and wallpapers. It also celebrates those who inhabited the house before and after Morris, including poet and novelist George MacDonald, inventor of the electric telegraph Sir Francis Ronalds and the actress Athene Seyler.

Morris’s time in Hammersmith began when he reported to his wife Jane that he had found a house in London that ‘might be made very beautiful with a touch of my art’. He leased Kelmscott House in 1878 until his death in 1896. It was here that he began carpet weaving, wove his first tapestry and continued his innovating approach to design. The small rugs and carpets made here are known as Hammersmith rugs and bear the woven device of a hammer in the border.

When away from the house, Morris longed to return to these practical crafts, writing ‘Lord bless us how nice it will be when I can get back to my little patterns and dyeing and the dear warp and weft at Hammersmith’ – warp and weft being weaving terms. Many wellknown Morris & Co. designs are associated with the house. In 1878 Morris designed the Bird woven wool textile to hang in the drawing room of the property and Peacock and Dragon curtains adorned the room. Pimpernel wallpaper hung in the dining room and Trellis in the ground floor bedroom.

Morris’s time in Hammersmith began when he reported to his wife Jane that he had found a house in London that ‘might be made very beautiful with a touch of my art’.

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The coach house that houses the exhibition has many stories itself to tell: after initially setting up carpet looms in the room, Morris later turned the coach house into a lecture hall for the Hammersmith Socialist Society in the 1880s. The décor – whitewashed walls and a plain floor – may have been simple, but the eloquence of speakers like George Bernard Shaw, Keir Hardie and Annie Besant made an impact. Later, Morris took premises along the river to establish his Kelmscott Press.

The exhibition runs to 26 October, and is open Thursday and Saturday afternoons from 2-5pm. While you are visiting, don’t forget to pick up a leaflet on the Arts & Crafts Riverside Walk, a guide to the plethora of locations along the river of historic artistic importance, and discover the artistic community that made not just Morris’s home but the wider area the bustling hub of creativity that it is known for.

‘Lord bless us how nice it will be when I can get back to my little patterns and dyeing and the dear warp and weft at Hammersmith’ - William Morris

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After initially setting up carpet looms in the room, Morris later turned the coach house into a lecture hall for the Hammersmith Socialist Society

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williammorrissociety.org Insta: williammorrissociety Facebook: @ZThe WilliamMorrisSociety Twitter: @WmMorrisSocUK

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Main Feature

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Main Feature

Cipollino comes to

Chiswick

Masters of Ballet Academy (MOBA), a recently launched professional local ballet academy, will be presenting two performances of ballet and live music in an open-air recital on Turnham Green on Saturday, 22 June.

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OBA has been operating for just under two years, with 70 children and counting! They are holding this performance in the heart of Chiswick to celebrate their success and to promote MOBA and ballet to a wider audience. The event was born when two Chiswick residents, Elena Glurjidze (pictured right) and Luci De Nordwall Cornish, met at an experimental ballet class taught by Elena at The Hogarth Club. Gradually they started to think how nice it would be to put on a local open-air event showcasing live ballet and classical music performances. After all, Chiswick residents enjoy and support local cultural events enthusiasticallyand this one comes at a price which is very affordable!

Masters of Ballet performed Cipollino at Sadler’s Wells back in February and those who were lucky enough to get hold of tickets were treated to an experience which we are told far exceeded the expectation normally engendered by the phrase ‘children’s ballet’. It was the first venture into choreography for Elena, who retired as Lead Principal of the English National Ballet (ENB) in 2016 and Olga Semenova, her business partner, who graduated and taught juniors and pre-seniors from the Vagano Ballet Academy and who has 30 years of teaching experience including the ENB. Together, they run Masters of Ballet Academy in Chiswick and Acton.

More on next couple of pages...

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Main Feature

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The event was born when two Chiswick residents, Elena Glurjidze and Luci De Nordwall Cornish, met at an experimental ballet class taught by Elena at The Hogarth Club.

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MOBA students have received offers from The Royal Ballet, Central School of Ballet, Amsterdam Dance Conservatoire, The Bolshoi Ballet and Sydney Ballet Conservatoire to date. They are preparing to compete in the Dance World Cup later this month, as they did in 2018 where they placed 5th and 6th. The children find their way to MOBA by word of mouth and advertisements in the Dance Times.

Once they have passed an audition, no-one is turned away because they can’t afford the fees which means children from all different backgrounds and ethnicities can all blend together in their pursuit of a professional ballet career.

Cipollino is an adaptation from Gianni Zadari’s 1951 book of the same name. All the characters are either fruit or vegetables, and the plot is of a happy band of characters whose lives are disrupted by the villains, Prince Lemon and his agent of evil, General Tomato.

Cipollino manages to step on Prince Lemon’s foot and flees for his life meanwhile his mother is taken hostage by Lemon and Tomato.

The rest of the plot is planning to release her and defeat the villains.

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At the event in June, there will be an open-air performance of Cipollino and a further performance of other pieces in collaboration with a live singer. There will be reasonably priced seating available to purchase in advance as well as ample space to stand and watch while having a coffee or a drink from the bar, or perhaps you might bring a picnic! Tickets are available on Eventbrite or mastersofballet.co.uk.

Sponsors for Masters of Ballet & Song, Turnham Green Park are Porsche Centre West London, The Hogarth Club, Beaumont Cornish Ltd, St James Place Wealth Management, The Horton & Garten, Oxana Lifestyle, Benveniste Couture and Club des Sports, Acton.

This is a chance to be part of the first live ballet-song fusion performance in Chiswick as well as supporting a growing local ballet academy committed to high-quality performance from a diverse group of young people.

22 June 14:30-16:00 & 16:00-16:45 Turnham Green Park & Garden, Chiswick W4 5TF. For tickets please visit mastersofballet.co.uk

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Food & Drink

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Fire Islands: Recipes from Indonesia by Eleanor Ford (£25, Murdoch Books). Photography by Kristin Perers.

Fire Islands A culinary exploration of Indonesia

Hammersmith author Eleanor Ford has released her latest cookbook, Fire Islands: Recipes from Indonesia.

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he book is beautifully filled from front to back with mouth-watering recipes, stories of her experiences growing up in Indonesia, delicate illustrations and inspiring images that make you want to book a plane ticket and go. It oozes with passion and spirit - Eleanor has really captured the magic she’s experienced and put it all in to her cookbook. Worthy of a place on your kitchen shelf, it’s out now. If you like your food fiery, Mandano in Northern Sulawesi is the place for you.

Here fragrant spices and heavy use of chilli typify the food for heat that hits you with shouts, not whispers. As many Minahasan people are Christian (alongside a common persuasion towards blood magic), halal dietary restrictions have not shaped the cuisine. This means bush meats from rats and bats to wild boar and python fill the butchers’ markets. A little less exotic, these succulent barbecued pork ribs make a particularly good carrier for the big flavours.

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Fiery Sulawesi pork ribs Serves 4

2 racks of baby back ribs Bumbu spice paste 5 small red Asian shallots, peeled 5 garlic cloves, peeled 3–4 large red chillies, seeded 5 cm (2 inches) ginger, peeled 2 tablespoons dark palm sugar

(gula jawa), shaved Dabu dabu dipping sauce

Roughly chop the ingredients for the bumbu, then blend to a paste in a food processor. Add a little water to help it come together, if needed.

Season generously with salt and black pepper.

Use a small knife to remove the membrane from the underside of the ribs. Smear half the bumbu into the ribs and lay them in a shallow oven dish. Cover tightly with foil and leave to marinate in the fridge for a few hours.

Food & Drink

Preheat the oven to 150°C (300°F).

Roast under the foil cover for 2½ hours. Baste once or twice during cooking. The fat should have melted leaving the meat very tender.

Meanwhile make the dipping sauce by combining all the ingredients and taste for heat, sweetness and tang.

Heat a barbecue, grill or griddle pan to high heat. Grill the ribs on both sides until they start to char and caramelise, then smear over the remaining bumbu.

3 tomatoes, finely diced 2 large red chillies, seeded and finely sliced 1 red bird’s eye chilli, finely sliced (optional) 2 small red Asian shallots, finely chopped juice of a lime 2 teaspoons dark palm sugar

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Culture

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Young at

Art

Celia Pickering runs an after school art club at Southfield Primary School

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n the 22nd June, at Southfield Primary Sunflower Fete from 11am-4pm, Celia is hosting a Children’s Art Auction to showcase up to 15 pieces of artwork, for the general public to buy. The art is produced by the children from the school, years 1 to 6 (ages 5-11). Each piece will be A3 in size and mounted with a description and the name and age of the child. The children’s artwork is based and influenced around a famous artist and their work.

Celia is a childminder and art teacher and found flexibility and enjoyment through choosing this career. It was the smartest way for her to be with her own two children and bring in her own income at the same time. Her husband was a head chef and worked extremely long hours at the time when she first started out. Childminding turned into a great way to meet new people, be a part of the community and for her and her children to make new friends, but it also gave Celia the chance to study and learn again. Childminding is very much more than just a job.

Culture

In the early days of setting up her own art classes, Celia reached out to loads of cafes in Chiswick, it was Ian at Plum Duff on Southfield Road who was the first person to allow her to use a space in his cafe.

It took place pre-school every Monday morning and it took a few classes to figure out if it was worth it and a couple of months for her confidence to kick in. Doing the children’s art classes enabled Celia to get involved in the art world again, since being an art student herself back in Birmingham in her late teens. It was the reason to buy art books, equipment and materials once more and being able to plan out classes for the children is a huge enjoyment.

Celia hasn’t always had huge success in her art classes. Some didn’t work out, “I have definitely experienced failure, which I found difficult, but my friends and family and the parents of the children I cared for, encouraged me to continue with the classes,” Celia says.

More...>

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Culture

“I have definitely experienced failure, which I found difficult, but my friends and family and the parents of the children I cared for, encouraged me to continue with the classes”

It was when she met fellow mum of Southfield Primary School, Katie King, who is the owner of The Ark Montessori Nursery and Forest School, that she really realised she could be an art teacher and that was the biggest reason contributing to her decision to change path. Katie gave Celia the opportunity to teach her art classes as an extracurricular class at the nursery on a Monday afternoon and with Katie’s encouragement and appreciation for her classes, Celia took a teaching assistant course and completed her NVQ Level 3 and did her placement hours at Southfield Primary School.

Being able to be creative and encourage children as young as 1 makes Celia feel like she is doing something right. Sadly art is no longer a main factor in so many primary schools, and money is unfortunately the main reason for this. In today’s world, art and creativity is more important than ever and for children who are not academic or find school difficult, the arts are important. Creativity and self expression through art can bring out a lot of confidence in children.

Celia’s art class times: • • • • •

Pre-school classes during term time on Friday’s at 14 Scout Hut, Rugby Road, Chiswick, W4 1AT from 1.30pm-2.15pm Pre-school classes during the holidays at Plum Duff Cafe, Southfield Road, Chiswick on Monday’s from 10am 10.45am Holiday Art Workshop 5 - 11 year old, February half term, Easter holidays, May half term, October half term Specialist Classes cover science week, mindfulness and many other school calendar activities After School Art Club at Southfield Primary School on Wednesdays.

Celia is always looking for new schools and the opportunity to get art back into schools.

Visit her website: artwithlittlepics.com @artwithlittlepics

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Health & Well-being

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One stop breast clinic in Chiswick Sponsored feature

By Miss Christina Choy, Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon, at Chiswick Medical Centre, part of HCA Healthcare UK.

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t Chiswick Medical Centre we fully understand that health issues surrounding your breasts can feel particularly personal, and sometimes overwhelming.

This is why the comfort and well-being of all those visiting us is central to all we do, and every aspect of care we deliver remains completely individualised.

Our state-of-the-art, dedicated one-stop Breast Unit offers patients the full spectrum of multidisciplinary breast assessment, including the diagnosis and treatment of benign and malignant breast diseases, as well as the full range of breast reconstruction options - all under one roof.

“Refer yourself to get screening and results all in the same visit” Comprehensive, one-stop breast service Often, the hardest moments surrounding health issues can be the periods of uncertainty whilst awaiting test results. We aim to make our patients’ experience as stress-free and comfortable as possible, and so rather than wait for GP referral, patients who meet the relevant criteria can refer themselves directly to our Breast Unit in Chiswick.

From the moment you enter the unit you’ll benefit from our rapid access, consultant-led service, receiving the very best in breast care and assessment. We use the latest digital mammography technology that not only detects breast cancer early, but decreases waiting times and increases reliability and speed of diagnosis – meaning we’re able to both screen and provide you with your results all within the same visit.

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“Nine out of 10 breast lumps that we examine are diagnosed as benign” Personalised, patient-centred breast care The one-stop aspect of our specialist breast service is one of the things we’re most proud to offer local residents, as we strongly believe the same-day access to our triple assessment breast care service helps to ease any stress-related health concerns, whilst also making a trip to come and see us far more time-efficient for you.

Your one-stop, triple assessment patient pathway for breast screening with us includes: Step 1: Medical history and clinical breast examination You’ll have the opportunity to discuss your breast concerns with one of our expert consultants, in a safe and warm environment. Dependent on your individual needs, this may take around 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Mammogram or ultrasound, or both Your mammogram is carried out by specialist radiographers, who will take special X-ray images of your breasts. Our consultant breast radiologist will then review the images in real time and may recommend additional imaging, such as an ultrasound to ensure the best possible assessment is achieved.

Step 3: Image-guided biopsy (if clinically indicated) If it’s felt that any area of your breast requires further investigation, your consultant radiologist may decide that a biopsy is appropriate.

This can also be carried out within the same appointment, and in some cases, same-day needle test results may also be given to you.

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Health & Well-being

Self-referral breast screening service To make the whole process of breast screening easier for you, we also offer a self-referral breast mammography service, meaning those who qualify avoid the need to see a GP first.

If you feel you want to have your breasts screened by our team of experts, simply book an appointment at our unit in Chiswick. Every mammogram is carried out by an independent consultant radiographer, who with the help of computer aided detection, allows us to provide you with a ‘double report’ of your results (including a written report) within 48-72 hours. This service is offered to patients who: • Are aged 40 and above • Are asymptomatic (not showing any symptoms) • Are fit and healthy • Haven’t had a mammogram for 12 months • Have a named clinician or GP who we can give your results to FIVE HIDDEN SIGNS OF BREAST CANCER Be assured, the majority of lumps we examine are benign. However, as well as checking for lumps in both breasts, armpits and around the collar bone areas, it’s important to always be aware of other less common breast cancer symptoms. With this in mind, I have shared five other areas to look out for below: • Changes in breast size, shape and texture Breasts can change in size and consistency due to a number of reasons, including menstruation and pregnancy. This shouldn’t be a cause for concern, although it’s important for you to identify what levels of fluctuation are normal for you. However, if one breast has grown asymmetrically to the other, or feels hard and heavy, this could be a sign of breast cancer.

• Unusually warm or pink skin Inflammatory breast cancer is rare, but it is something to be cautious of. If one breast feels warm to touch and is harder than the other, or looks like an infection, then you should immediately get it checked out by a consultant.

•Nipple retraction Nipple retraction, or inverted nipples, is when the nipple turns inward or has flattened. Nipple retraction can be a concern when it is sudden and unexplained.

If you’re worried about any of the symptoms mentioned that can indicate breast cancer, you should of course see a consultant for expert medical advice.

World-class care at a local level Caring for young people and adults of all ages within the Chiswick community is central to our ethos, and so if you’re visiting us at Chiswick Breast Unit, you can be confident that we’re perfectly placed to care for all individuals and family members in the local area.

We’re open six days a week, from the morning until night on Monday to Friday, and early afternoon on Saturdays, to ensure all residents can see one of our private GPs or consultants, no matter how busy your schedule. For more information and to book your same or next-day appointment with us, please see our contact details below.

To book an assessment at the Chiswick Medical Centre’s Breast Unit please contact the reservations team on 020 3993 3684.

Miss Christina Choy is based at the Chiswick Medical Centre, part of HCA Healthcare UK. For appointments and more information see 020 3553 9450 www.hcahealthcareuk.co.uk/chiswick

• Liquid coming from the nipple If the nipple produces discharge, and especially if the discharge is a reddish colour, this could be a sign of breast cancer.

• Thickening skin If the skin around the nipple is scaly or has thickened, this could also be a sign of breast cancer and needs to be examined by your breast consultant.

• Dilated veins Keep an eye out for veins that weren’t previously visible on your breasts. If a vein has suddenly become dilated and protruding, this could mean that cancer is blocking a blood vessel. If you are concerned about an unusual vein, then you should have this examined.

• Dimpled or puckered skin This can be caused by cancer that produces contractions in the breast tissues between the skin and chest wall, which pulls the skin inward to create a dimpled or puckered effect. If breasts begin to show an orange-peel look or texture, this could be a sign of breast cancer. I advise to visually check your breasts frequently to see if there is any change in texture.

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WORLDWIDE Travel

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Travel

EXPERIENCE THE SERENITY OF THE TROPICS IN

TONGSAI BAY, KOH SAMUI Nestled on the shore of an idyllic bay in the Gulf of Thailand sits one of the most unique, serene, ecofriendly luxury resorts in Asia. Tongsai Bay on Koh Samui revels in its environmental prowess without compromising the high expectations of its clientele.

Paul Williams spends a couple of days enjoying the views in a tropical paradise.

WORDS BY PAUL WILLIAMS

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WORLDWIDE Gazing up at the clear midnight sky whilst lazing in a private pool on a warm night on Koh Samui, the mesmerising star systems may find you asking why are we here? Well that’s for boffins elsewhere to ponder, but at this moment in time I certainly know why I’m here - the tranquillity of Tongsai Bay; a private luxury resort offering true escapism, and from experience of what would be defined as similar, this is by far the best, the premier of premium, the king of kings.

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oh Samui is an island in the Gulf of Thailand that has been a gateway to the orient, dating back ions, as a major trade hub along the ancient trade routes to and from China. The staggering expansion of Bangkok saw the island benefit economically with the growth of tourism. We all know the associated clichés with back packing, dance music and gap year frolics which, to be honest, still exist, but tend to be on the south of the island or on Koh Phangan.

Arriving at the world’s most beautiful airport - seriously it’s more of a botanical garden maintained by a billionaire benefactor than an island hopper landing strip - after a quick flight from Bangkok, around 40 minutes, you are in the tropics. I have never ventured this far east and I am utterly transfixed by the new surrounds, in fact amazed at where I am, 30 degrees, blazing sun - I also notice a lot of my fellow travellers are suddenly wearing astonishingly brash elephant patterned light linen trousers... am I overdressed in my winter garb? As I’m physically melting, yes.

The Thai people are renowned for their open, mild mannered friendliness, and the concierge, about to offer me sanctuary from the sudden heat exposure by way of an air conditioned Merc, lives up to this reputation.

After a thirty minute drive from the airport I arrive at the gates of Tongsai Bay. An immaculately uniformed guard salutes upon arrival. The reception area sets the tone; a beautifully maintained building, wooden open plan area set in landscaped gardens and an obvious 100% focus on environmental consideration and restoration - I’m essentially in a luxurious eco village. Golf carted through the intricate, twisting, smooth road system, home for the next few days is a deluxe villa, probably at one of the highest points overlooking the bay but only a five minute stroll from the beach and the resort’s main dining area and bar.

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I expect the usual - a white cotton laced en-suite room, the typical ‘WOW’ a honeymooning couple would bore their friends about à la Maldives. Put simply, this is platinum, beyond 5 star without any doubt. A double ‘day’ bed out on the main outside area, along with a small sized pool, a set-in-floor bath and a covered galley type kitchen. Take your pick for position to look out over the bay and ocean. Inside, the attention to detail is incredible. Dark wooden floors and panelling keep it cool (along with the efficient AC of course - keep those doors closed!), a sumptuous bed, ultra-modern lighting and entertainment system, high end shower room and wash area - this space is lush, everything is laid out to provide you with an effortless stay.

There are different residential options to satisfy a stricter budget, more chalet oriented, but of exceptional standard.

I mentioned the emphasis on environmental concern and awareness, and walking down to the beach, I’m starting to notice it more and more. The flora and fauna, although of course managed, is allowed to flourish - buildings have been built around existing jungle growth, very little vegetation, if any, has been sacrificed. Owner Thana-

korn Hoontrakul and his wife Saisiri follow the vision of his late father Akorn, which was to create a self-sustaining resort that has minimal impact on the environment - this was realised in 1987. Glass bottled water is filtered on site, paper and plastic use is literally zero, all food waste is recycled and used to create chemical free detergent, and mosquito repellent created from citrus fruits - small moves with big results. Why isn’t this easy approach adopted across the world? I thought I was a considerate planet sharer, but Tongsai has instilled new thoughts.

Flip Flops off. The beach is beautifully made up of light coloured sand, naturally enclosed by forest covered headlands, turquoise waters lapping at the shore. Two large communal swimming pools are also on site, one just a little back from the beach is suitable for kids, the other a bit more adult oriented - loungers, small bar, and waiter service. Talking of bars and not feeling like pursuing too much aquatic activity, I sit at the Po Lad Beach Bar and Bistro, beer in hand, taking it all in. I spot a four man catamaran - I’ll renege on the no water sports idea then. You can sail, paddle or wind surf out from land here, courtesy of the resort.

“The reception area sets the tone; a beautifully maintained building, wooden open plan area set in landscaped gardens and an obvious 100% focus on environmental consideration and restoration - I’m essentially in a luxurious eco village.”

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Lunch is simple but exquisitely prepared Thai vegetarian dumplings. The menu will satisfy most palettes and I always stick to the food of the country I’m staying in so, as always, I recommend going off piste with your choices - don’t get me wrong, no one will be offended if you order a pizza, but avoid what you’re used to, be adventurous… you won’t be let down here.

Back at my villa, book in hand (which I don’t actually read), I gaze out across the bay again. My mind empties. I love this.

Flip Flops on. Dinner time: I check out Chef Chom’s restaurant - named after Piengchom Dhadahbanand, previously a Chef in the Thai Royal household.

Now retired, she has handed the skills of Thai cuisine down to the current Chef Chom’s kitchen brigade lead by Sous Chef, Chef Toob. The restaurant is at the heart of the resort, spacious with silver service type qualities, ornate freshwater pools decorate the terrace. As dusk gently rolls in on the warm evening, I am spoilt, al fresco with a wonderful array of traditional dishes, all prepared with eloquence, cooked to perfection. Here they don’t use the phrase ‘fine dining’ but no doubt a foodie would label it as such, it truly is sensational.

Another on site dining option is The Butler’s, overseen by Michelin trained Chef Eak and perfect for private or small group dining, which serves gourmet prepped Pan-Asian and Mediterranean cuisine.

Do not miss sunrise. I’m up early, watching the sun start its journey across the globe as it breaches the horizon, light spilling out across the bay. Nature calls - literally - the wildlife start its morning chorus, a real joy - such an abundance of life. There are at least 40 species of birds making Tongsai their home; the sounds are a welcomed alarm call to the incessant bleeping of a smartphone.

Breakfast beckons. Two things; 1: do not avoid Tongsai’s juice lady - let her look in your eyes and from one glance she’ll devise a juice specific to you; 2: Have an omelette, unbeatable - OK not quite the food choosing philosophy I mentioned earlier, but after all it is breakfast! You will also find an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, noodles, rice, cheese, meats, breads and cereals.

I am lucky enough to be shown around the Tongsai organic garden where they grow fruit, veg, herbs, recycle food waste and maintain a self-sustaining programme tied in with the local economy. If you ask, you will be taken up to

see the day to day workings, well worth a trip, around 5 minutes up the road, just remember your mosquito spray!

Tongsai is a perfectly placed base for visiting other parts of the island. I opt for a day off the resort and take a trip to the Fisherman’s Village at Bophut, a popular tourist hotspot during the high season, flush with bars and restaurants along the main drag, many with backdrops of beach and open sea. It’s hot, but not unbearable, the cool wind takes the edge of it all. I slowly pace the busy street, locals go about their daily business. The Thai smile is infectious and I must have said hello to over 50 people in the space of 25 yards - You could argue that they are trying to peddle their wares, but I feel a genuine welcome wherever I go - peaceful people.

Returning to Tongsai, a chill out on the beach or massage is on the cards. Or a chill out AND a massage seems totally appropriate. I won’t labour the point, but the massage is a luxury worth indulging in. My feet are washed in petalled fragrant water before a relaxing full body oil massage. Around an hour, this is absolutely divine. Try and stay awake - impossible.

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After a further lazy lie down on the beach, and with the prospect of dinner on the beach under the starlit canopy of the heavens, it’s difficult to comprehend leaving. I have never been to such a place. Privileged to have enjoyed the trappings of luxury, I also acknowledge the fragility of nature and how one man’s vision to better the future is visibly maintained, appreciated and respected.

General Manager Martin Heiniger and his team led by Hotel Manager Mark Harrison make Tongsai Bay what it is; a testament to environmental protection with absolutely no deflection from its luxury status. This resort will satisfy both the ardent holiday maker that enjoys an annual taste of the high life and the frequent sun seeker that enjoys financial independence.

“...One man’s vision to better the future is visibly maintained, appreciated and respected”

It’s a must

Tongsai Bay

1: Take the Tongsai Cookery Course: Enjoy the delights of learning how to cook traditional Thai cuisine in Chef Chom’s Restaurant. From scratch prepare starters, mains and desserts, enjoying the results with a sit down banquet. This was great fun, bonding with the staff who will help you get it right whilst enjoying a laugh. I failed miserably - apart from the starters I produced, they were best starters ever made in the history of the world.

84 Moo 5, Bo Phut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84320

2: Gin Master Class: Tongsai has a commercial relationship with Bangkok based Iron Balls Gin. Be taken on a voyage through gin mixology and the quaint measures you can take (no pun intended) to make your sun downer that little more interesting.

3: Fitness, massage and spa: There is a gym on site for general use. Experience traditional Thai massage and other variants in the spa area which also caters for a number of health and beauty treatments.

e: reservation@tongsaibay.co.th www.tongsaibay.co.th Tongsai Pool Villas are located on a hill behind Seafront Pool Villa. Each Tongsai Pool Villa features a large open-air with sea-view terrace (81 m2) equipped with a dining table with chairs, a pantry area with a stocked fridge, a gazebo where guests can sleep outside (mosquito net provided), ceiling fans.

Private pool starts from 15m2 to 27m2. Villa size 180 sqm. Prices From £500 per night on a bed and breakfast basis for 2 people sharing.

Bangkok Airways www.bangkokair.com Daily flights from Bangkok to Samui. Fare starting from £97 one way.

www.viestramagazine.com

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Premier Premier by Brightsun Travel are bespoke corporate and luxury travel specialists, established in 1986.

Our team of experienced travel consultants are available 24/7 to suit your travel needs.

With our partnerships with airlines and hotels globally we can offer:

Discounts on business and first class fares Advice on maximising loyalty points, lounge passes and upgrades 24/7 check-in and check-out on a vast range of hotels Complimentary room upgrades on a wide range of hotels and more

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THE TOWNHOUSE COLLECTION Prices from £899,950*

YOUR WATERSIDE PLACE

The townhouses at Keelson Gardens are a limited collection of just six homes arranged around a landscaped courtyard on the multi award-winning Brentford Lock West development on the banks of the Grand Union Canal.

Each property benefits from: • 1,959ft2 of accommodation • Four bedrooms • Two private balconies accessed from the master suite and bedroom three • Two ground floor terraces • Two parking spaces

£25,000 CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS STAMP DUTY PLUS £2,000 TOWARDS MOVING IN COSTS**

020 3504 6403 brentfordlockwest.co.uk Marketing Suite and Show Home open daily 10am to 5pm Boaters Avenue, Brentford Lock West, TW8 8FE

*Price correct at time of going to print. **£25,000 contribution towards stamp duty plus £2,000 towards moving in cost on selected townhouse plots only & for reservations secured before May 31st 2019. Not in conjunction with any other offer & subject to terms and conditions. Images of townhouse show home & stock.

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Supply and installation of

Bathrooms & Kitchens High specificaction.

Professional team.

For a no obligation quote call Will on 07748 982 917 50

THE CHISWICK MAGAZINE | June 2019

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KEW WINDOWS Windowizard now trading as Kew windows

HIGH QUALITY WINDOWS & DOORS From traditional timber sash windows to the very latest technology in alternative materials and designs, including Aluminium Slimline Bifold doors, Swing & Slide doors and UPVC products now available in all RAL colours

Over 25 years experience in the industry Established reputation with a high level workmanship Highly recommended by local estate agents, letting agents and management companies

Call us to arrange a free consultation on 0800 634 9273 E info@kewwindows.co.uk W www.kewwindows.co.uk Kew Windows, Diamond House, 179-181 Lower Richmond Road, Richmond, Surrey TW9 4LN T 020 3740 9108 Kew Windows FP Ad 340x260mm.indd 1

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AN AUTHENTIC TASTE OF TUSCANY BROUGHT TO LONDON W4

Villa di Geggiano

This elegant restaurant is the unofficial outpost of the fabulous 15th century Palazzo in which the aristocratic Bianchi Bandinelli family have lived for five centuries. Legend has it that in 1752 this Tuscan villa produced the first Chianti to be exported to England.

THE FOOD IS SUBLIME

THE WINE IS DIVINE

The menu is ingredient-led and uncomplicated. Wherever possible, the restaurant procures from organic, traceable and sustainable sources.

As the owners have their own highly-regarded organic vineyard, there are impressive stocks in the capacious cellar.

There are also organic wines from the villa’s neighbouring estates and many other fine Italian wines. The house red in this restaurant is absolutely the right decision to make.

Choose from a tasting plate of cured meats and cheeses straight from Siena, a delicious bowl of home-made pappardelle with duck or wild boar, or if you’re feeling peckish, go for the char-grilled Tuscan Fiorentina – 800g of prime beef for two to share.

And if you’re around for lunch, there’s no better introduction to the deliciousness of the Villa than the special set lunch menu, offering two courses for £20 and three courses for £25.

“When Villa di Geggiano cook Italian... it’s phenomenal.” Tatler.

THE ART IS INSPIRATIONAL

The Villa is about feeding the soul as well as the body. Across the dining rooms, you’ll find a wide array of contemporary paintings and sculpture. Here, established artists rub shoulders with talented newcomers.

The first Summer truffles have arrived!

OPENING TIMES

Lunch 12pm – 3pm Dinner 6pm – 10.30pm Kitchen closes 9pm Sunday To book a table, please call 020 3384 9442 Villa di Geggiano 66-68 Chiswick High Road London W4 1SY www.villadigeggiano.co.uk

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& SONG

PR E SE N TS

followed by a mixed programme of Masters of Ballet Dancers with special guest Luci De Nordwall Cornish (mezzo Soprano) 22nd JUNE 2019 2 - 3.40pm & 4 - 5pm Turnham Green Park & Garden, Chiswick W4 5TF

Tickets available now for £25* at www.mastersofballet.co.uk *A small transaction fee applies.

S U PP O RT ED BY

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