CLOSE UP FIT CLUB
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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
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CHARLOTTE CROSBY
All eyes on
MARGOT ROBBIE
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School’s OUT NEXT and Little Bird by Jools Oliver have recently announced the collaboration of their Childrenswear Collection - a vibrant clothing collection for new-borns and children up to 6 years, designed and created exclusively with NEXT. With over 140 lines for Spring/Summer 2021, the collection includes a variety of clothing and accessories, with prices ranging from £6 to £28.
Little Bird has always been about nostalgic memories of my childhood, mainly inspired by the 1970’s. Our new Little Bird collection at Next continues this concept but we’re also bringing in a bit of an 80’s vibe, recreating some of my favourite items from that time. We’ve loved introducing fresh new colours and exciting graphics, all with our familiar unisex styling and positive attitude. – Jools Oliver
6 // Close Up Magazine
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After spending so much time at home over the last year, I wanted this collection to be about adventure. Seeking new ways to explore and play, even if that’s in the garden or close to home. Think bright and fun, full of imagination and curiosity. I’ve tried to create easy-to-wear, comfortable pieces that I hope will become new favourites. – Jools Oliver
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Close Up Magazine // 7
EDITOR'S LETTER
This time
LAST YEAR This time last year our whole world stood still. The streets were empty, stores were closed and our every day routines stopped. Time stopped. At first it felt like forever, how many Netflix movies and series can we possibly watch? How many puzzles can we put together? When is this going to be over? The reality of it is, it’s still not over! The “new normal” that we are taking on is what has brought so much strength to people personally and to our community. Going for a walk with your friend is the “new” going to the pub. Don’t get me wrong, I am SO excited for the pubs and restaurants to open and I’m sure I’ll be the first one there. But these small changes are things that I’d like to try to keep going. The hustle and bustle will soon begin, and as much as we are excited and happy for what feels like freedom, these moments will be so cherished as we remember lockdown as “the time we stood still”. The time we spent at home with our families, taking a very well deserved break that we will most likely never have again.
Cover Interview Page 10
This time has been very different for the people who have lost loved ones, lost jobs and lost hope. Remember to reach out to people, now that you have a little more time in your day than you would have had before. I once read a quote “I don’t want my pain and struggle to make me a victim. I want it to make me someone else’s hero.” You may be battling life, but you don’t have to battle it alone. Be someone’s hero and you never know, they might just be yours back.
Fashion Page 16
Living Page 54
So, as this April edition marks a whole year of what I’m sure we all can’t wait to forget, let’s celebrate the heroes; our incredible NHS, local shopkeepers and supermarket staff, delivery drivers and postal workers, refuse collectors and cleaners, emergency services and health care staff, teachers and chefs, community groups and volunteers, as well as friends, family, carers and neighbours. We appreciate you.
Leah x
Food Page 34 Charlotte Crosby Interview Page 30
Fashion Page 14 Living Page 50
EDITOR leah@closeupuk.com
Advertise Your Business With Style... Southgate, Palmers Green, Winchmore Hill, Grange Park, Enfield, Oakwood, Hampden Square, Cockfosters, Crouch End, Hadley Wood, Barnet, Totteridge, Whetstone and Finchley. If you would like your area covered contact us on 020 8323 2444. Publisher and Editor Leah Shakallis leah@closeupuk.com Head of Marketing and Sales Kat Stylianou kat@closeupuk.com Editorial Leah Shakallis Accounts Director Chris Papacosta chris@closeupuk.com Blog Katerina Georgiou Education Column Anna Pericleous Fashion Naomi Genes Beauty Carl Bembridge Fitness Lianna Swan Design and Production Unit 9 East Lodge Village, East Lodge Lane, Botany Bay, Enfield EN2 8AS Tel 020 7636 7736 Email design@typetechnique.co.uk Web www.typetechnique.co.uk If you would like to advertise your business with style, contact 020 8323 2444 sayhello@closeupuk.com Tel 020 8323 2444 Email sayhello@closeupuk.com Web www.closeupuk.com Printed by the Magazine Printing Company PLC www.magprint.co.uk
RECYCLE
PLEASE NOTE: Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Although we make every effort to quote correct prices of items featured, it is possible that these may have changed on going to press. Although we endeavour to ensure any organisations or firms mentioned are reputable, the editor cannot guarantee they will fulfil obligations in all circumstances. Neither the editor nor the publisher can accept responsibility for any materials submitted, whether photographic or otherwise. The editor reserves the right to edit any materials supplied as she sees fit.
8 // Close Up Magazine
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COVER INTERVIEW
10 // Close Up Magazine
THE GLAM SQUAD Australian actress Margot Robbie has taken Hollywood by storm.
M
argot Elise Robbie is an Australian actress whose breakthrough role was in the Aussie soap opera Neighbours. In 2010, she decided to leave the show to pursue her career in Hollywood. Only one year after moving, Margot appeared in drama series Pan Am, alongside Christina Ricci. In 2012, Robbie starred in About Time with Rachel McAdams, then with Leonardo DiCaprio in Martin Scorsese’s The Wolf of Wall Street. The film was nominated for five Oscars, including Best Picture. In 2015, Margot starred in Focus, opposite Will Smith, then again, a year later in Suicide Squad – where Robbie played the iconic Harley Quinn. The first trailer for The Suicide Squad, the sequel of Suicide Squad, is here in all its glory. Some of the characters featured in David Ayer’s movie are back, such as Idris Elba as Bloodsport, Sylvester Stallone as King Shark, Joel Kinnaman as Rick Flag, Jai Courtney as Captain Boomerang, and Viola Davis as Amanda Waller, but the new movie features a huge line-up of characters including Pete Davidson as Blackguard, Nathan Fillion as T.DK., Peter Capaldi as Thinker, and Sean Gunn as Weasel (a humansized weasel). One major character featured in the trailer is John Cena’s Peacemaker, who you will also see on his own spin-off on HBO Max. James Gunn’s The Suicide Squad will introduce a new version of everyone’s favourite psycho, Harley Quinn, with changes to her character from David Ayer’s 2016 Suicide Squad and Cathy Yan’s Birds of Prey. Since her DCEU introduction in 2016, Harley has changed significantly, especially given her breakup with the Joker in Birds of Prey. Her character will continue to evolve in the new movie as she assumes a new role, picks up new weapons, and her appearance changes once again. Of her connection to the character, Robbie previously told Variety, “Harley has this unpredictable nature that means she could react in any way to any situation, which as an actor is just a gift. Between all those things, I really just fell in love with her.”
I really just fell in love with her. Close Up Magazine // 11
COVER INTERVIEW
We wanted to expand what female stories and female storytellers could do. The relaunch promises plenty of cynical humour as well as action-packed fight scenes. The movie stars Harley Quinn alongside the other members of Task Force X, who have been pulled out of high-security prison Belle Reve to undertake a search-and-destroy mission on the fictional island of Corto Maltese. As in the first film, the squad is monitored by Colonel Rick Flag and Amanda Waller, who use death threats to compel action.
Robbie’s work is currently being highly recognized: Promising Young Woman, which she produced with her production company LuckyChap Entertainment, had four Golden Globe nominations this year, including one for Best Drama Motion Picture. Robbie explained in a December 2020 interview with The Hollywood Reporter that while LuckyChap has produced films starring her in the past, the company’s goal is to elevate female stories and storytellers. “We never started a company to be a starring vehicle for me or to be a platform for me to chase my dreams,” Robbie said. “It was really that we wanted to expand what female stories and female storytellers could do in this industry, and I don’t need to be onscreen for that to happen. But it’s a wonderful position to be in since my platform can also open some of those doors. And especially at the beginning, there were a lot of first- and second-time filmmakers that we wanted to work with, and you can’t get something greenlit without a bankable name attached and I’m so lucky to fall into that bracket [of bankable names]. But I’m not right for every role. I felt that way about Promising Young Woman.”
Harley Quinn was a loner in the 2016 version of Suicide Squad. Imprisoned in a high-security facility for the worst of the worst, she was simply biding her time until the Joker came to break her out. Since the only thing that mattered to her was seeing the Joker again, she didn’t have as much on the line as the other characters. Harley didn’t seem to care about her cell conditions or the fact that she’s a prisoner — she just found fun where she could get it. Throughout Suicide Squad, she thrilled at small victories like rediscovering a favourite outfit or getting to pulverize bad guys with a bat.
She explained why she felt Carey Mulligan was right to star in Promising Young Woman over her: “I was like, ‘I think I’m who people would expect to be cast in this.’ But the most delightful thing about Promising Young Woman is that it takes you by surprise, and I just felt like I wouldn’t be that surprising— me doing these kinds of things with people’s perception of who I am and The Suicide the characters that I’ve played,” she Squad is out explained. “Carey Mulligan, however, 6th August 2021 is an actress that has this air of
Suicide Squad 2’s Harley Quinn is still too much of a loose cannon to be the leader of the team, but she is the lynchpin, the character that holds everyone together.
prestige around her. She’s in period dramas. Throw her in Promising Young Woman, and people’s minds get blown.”
12 // Close Up Magazine
Close Up Magazine // 13
FASHION Blazer Zara £79.99
Dress New Look £25.99
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When life gives you
LEMONS
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If you add one colour trend into your wardrobe this spring, make it the bright, but not quite neon, shade of lemon yellow. Optimistic by nature, this standout shade might not be your typical neutral colourway, but lemon is offered in almost every spring wardrobe staple imaginable. Think juicy midiskirts to style with a fresh pair of knee-high boots, or a zesty turtleneck knit just in time for seasonal layering. We could all undoubtedly use an extra dose of positivity this season by way of a cheery pop of colour. So if you’re going to squeeze in one colour or trend to your fall wardrobe, it might as well be one as happy as lemon.
Scoop Neck Crop Top Primark £3.50
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Image: Christy Turlington, Copyright: Steven Meisel, 1992, Vogue Italia Stylist: Carlyne Cerf de Dudzeele
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FASHION
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High-waisted ‘80s-style office trousers, cropped culottes and utilitarian cargo pants are all back this season. Team with a bralette or lace-inspired top for a more feminine finish, or layer on the tomboy chic with slouchy matching jackets and retro slogan sweatshirts.
Pretty Little Thing
16 // Close Up Magazine
FASHION
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Close Up Magazine // 17
FASHION
POSTLOCKDOWN LOOKS Fashion and beauty content creator Naomi Genes talks all things fashion!
WHAT TO WEAR FOR: BRUNCH / DATE NIGHT / BACK TO WORK So I already have my outfits planned! For a brunch I’m thinking some mid blue levi 501 jeans, a simple white long sleeve bodysuit, white chunky trainers and to accessorise and finish off the look: a cream faux croc bag, some cute gold hoops and tortoise shell mini sunglasses. My date night look would be something simple with a pop of colour. A crisp white over-sized shirt worn as a dress, bright coloured strappy heels, gold hoops and a mini shoulder bag. My back to work look would be an oversized beige suit paired with a white t-shirt and some black loafers.
ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES THAT MAKE AN OUTFIT Accessorising is a MUST for any outfit. It can really elevate a simple look. I think everyone should have some simple and statement gold hoops, a simple pair of small tortoise shell sunglasses and a simple baseball cap.
What’s on your fashion wish list this season? Are you switching up your wardrobe for LA? So I am definitely going to switch up my wardrobe in LA. I am wanting to lean more into the laid back Cali vibe. This season I hope to incorporate some colour in to my wardrobe so I am on the lookout for some colourful Nike Dunks and some quirky coloured sunglasses. I’ve been searching Pinterest a lot and making boards trying to find my new Cali vibe. So exciting!!
18 // Close Up Magazine
For more style inspiration follow Naomi Genes on Instagram @naomigenes
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HEALTH
WORK OUT! Introducing Lianna Swan, the lead personal trainer at fitness tech brand Shreddy! Taking the guesswork out of reaching fitness goals, the Shreddy app lets users sweat it out in high-energy workouts, get involved in real-time classes and tuck into tasty and healthy meal plans.
Alongside being a personal trainer for the past two years, Lianna is also a swimmer and swam for national Pakistan team, competing in the 2016 Olympic games in Rio. Here, Lianna gives us her step by step to a lower body focused strength and cardio home session! This workout can be done with long bands only or you can switch it up and add dumbbells if you’ve got them! It will take roughly 30-45 minutes and is guaranteed to raise your heart rate. The workout consists of two supersets and a METCON. The METCON at the end refers to metabolic conditioning. We’re using weights at a high intensity to work your muscles and your lungs. Make sure you complete a proper warm-up for at least 10 minutes before starting the session!
SUPERSET 1
Long band squats 4 x 16 reps
SUPERSET 2
Assisted pistol squats 4 x 10 on each side
Long band cossack squats
RDLs (Romanian Deadlifts)
Butterfly sit-ups
Overhead squats
3 x 16 reps
METCON
3 x 12 reps
(40 seconds work | 20 seconds rest X3)
Step-ups COOL DOWN & stretch
20 // Close Up Magazine
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teeth without the need for traditional moulds and also allows us to communicate, through outcome simulator software, exactly what we can achieve including straight, well aligned smiles using Invisalign technology. Never forgetting general routine dentistry, we also have the expertise to provide dental implants for the replacement of missing teeth as well as other specialist and cosmetic procedures like tooth whitening, botox and fillers. Call our reception team on 020 8886 4888 for any enquiries and arrange an appointment.
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INTERVIEW
Celebrity hairstylist
CARL BEMBRIDGE Gives us the FULL shaBANG! With his new fringe collection of wigs, Carl updates us on his latest favourite hair styles. www.carlbembridgewigs.com @CARLBEMBRIDGEWIGS
Me and my celebrity clients are always looking to do different styles and it always comes down to... what shall we try next? A full fringe or bangs are a little scary to have cut in, so I decided to bring out 3 new colours to my wig range with full fringes! This way, you can see what you look like with a fringe or bangs without having to have the chop! FRINGED wigs are also fabulous because like the lace-front wigs, you don’t have to cut or hide the lace. Amazing for beginners! Carls celebrity clients trust him with their luscious locks on a regular basis for photoshoots, red carpet events, music videos and filming. I love a fringe to instantly change someone’s look or if you are looking for a new you/new do there are so many little hair hacks, but seeing as we are talking about fringes, don’t forget there are many ways to fake a fringe! Whether it be a wig, clip on fringe or high bun with length left out and spread at the front, fake it before you cut it!
CB tips I love a fringe to instantly change someones look or if you are looking for a new you/ new do… there are so many little hair hacks but seeing as we are talking about fringes don’t forget there are many ways to fake a fringe! Whether it be a wig or clip on fringe or high bun with length left out and spread at the front fake it before you cut it!
22 // Close Up Magazine
‘H AV E T H E T I M E O F Y OUR M O N T H’
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EDUCATION
BACK TO SCHOOL... but not for long By Anna Pericleous Teacher and Leader of Early Years and Primary Education
O
n the 8th of March we welcomed back all children, the expression on the children’s faces was enough to remove all the anxiety from the past few months during lockdown and remind us of why we work in this sector. The Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, described it as a “big day and an emotional day” for families. The most prominent word I had heard from colleagues and families was ‘finally’ which is understandable as this lockdown felt, in a strange way, longer and more challenging than the prior. Despite this, the children settled back instantly and really enjoyed being part of routine and seeing their friends. The concerns about their wellbeing and the ‘gaps’ in their learning was not initially evident and children had once again shown resilience through the tough times they had faced. The excitement and positivity really radiated through the school and the week flew by. Although I cannot speak on behalf of all practioners, I hope that each and every child had an optimistic start to the ‘new normal’ school life that we have become accustomed to. Not before long though we will be having our Easter half term and although it may seem too soon for some, the shorter half term will essentially allow children to reassess their own position within the classroom and give families the opportunity to catch up on what the children have been doing at school and of course create more memories. I have put together some fun educational activities which you can carry out during this time off school. I will always maintain that children learn best when they don’t realise they are learning!
Easter egg hunt (with a twist): hide literacy questions or maths equations around the home or outside and when children bring them back with the answer then exchange them for a mini chocolate egg. Adapt to different ages e.g. phonics sounds for EYFS. Matching eggs: (plastic Easter eggs) hide each half of the eggs around your home and challenge children to find matching pairs. Each half may contain an answer, question or part of a word. Photographer: when walking through a park, take photos of different coloured flowers using phones or tablets. These photos can be used to create Easter cards, displays or gifts. Homemade Easter cards: use resources within your homes to create thoughtful cards rather than buying them. Easter egg colouring: do it differently this year and think of science, maths and art! Easter egg bath bombs: create your own science experiment and wellbeing package in one! You can find some more activities on my fun educational ideas Instagram for younger children. I hope you all have a wonderful and safe Easter holiday and don’t forget, especially as we are in spring, to ‘always look on the bright side of life’.
@the_magic_of_eyfs (Early Years Foundation Stage)
KEBLE PR EP
ENTRANCE AWARDS & SCHOL ARSHIPS At Keble Prep we are very proud of our boys’ curiosity and enthusiasm – why not consider enrolling your son? If your son is old enough to join our 4-13 Prep School, have a look at our website and arrange a visit. 7+ Academic, musical, creative or sporting awards and scholarships are available for external applicants applying to join Keble in Year 3 from September 2021. In addition to specific talent or academic ability, boys are expected to display high levels of personal conduct and good all-round potential. Occasional places may arise in other year groups. Terms & Conditions Apply
For further details please contact:
Andrea Michael Head of Marketing & Admissions 020 8360 3359 | admissions@kebleprep.co.uk | www.kebleprep.co.uk
Orley Farm School #Resilience! Orley Farm School was founded in 1850 and is set in 39 glorious acres of playing fields, woodland and meadow situated at the bottom of Harrow on the Hill. We have exceptional classroom facilities including a recently refurbished Library, Science laboratories and a Drama Studio. We are home to 500 girls and boys aged 4 to 13 who are receiving an extraordinary educational experience that develops the whole child preparing them for future success. Fulfilment and happiness start with a deep love of learning and over their time with us, through our unique ‘Thinking Skills Programme’, children will develop their resilience, curiosity, empathy, risk-taking, good judgement, creativity, initiative, focus, flexibility of mind and ambition. We are privileged to be working with young learners at a point where we can ‘hardwire’ key traits and values that we believe are essential to happiness and success in an ever-changing world. Our 10 Thinking Skills are the bedrock of ‘The Orley Farm Way’ and we have no doubt that we are giving voice to the ambitious, the creative, the curious, the focused, the resilient and the risk takers as they will possess empathy, flexibility of mind, initiative and good judgement in all that they do! We pride ourselves on preparing our young learners for life and therefore, we go well beyond assessment preparation. We are very proud that we are able to find the right senior school for each individual and over the past six years, pupils have been offered over 248 Scholarships and taken up places at 59 different schools. Just before lockdown last year we were awarded outstanding in all areas by the Independent Schools Inspectorate.
BLOG
Katerina Mum to Rico and blogger to all! www.keepingupwithkaterina.com @keepingupwithkaterina
Mum guilt. I remember first writing about mum guilt when Rico was less than a year old, I was faced with all the guilt of having to go back to work and what it meant for Rico and I and our newborn/maternity bubble we created. It was honestly one of my most liked and commented on blogs. I had different mums reach out to me on how much they could relate, how they felt like they were reading their own thoughts through my words and thanked me for putting my guilt to paper and helping them to realise they were not alone. It honestly helped me get through my worst experience of parenting to date, where my anxiety spiralled out of control and even touched slightly on depression (not that many people aside from Jamie actually knew that). I can honestly say, experiencing that deep feeling that I had failed Rico and also being out of control of what I wanted to do vs what I had to do was unbearable. It’s funny though, because fast forward a few years, Rico is now 3 and a half and I feel as though my mum guilt has morphed into a whole new level. I’m now feeling this immense sense of mum guilt not because I’m sad that I have to leave him, but because, I actually enjoy it. I’m not sure if it’s been the year we’ve had or if this was going to be something that was going to happened regardless, but I’m at the point of my mothering journey where I’m actually enjoying finding myself and my own identity again. I look forward to going to work, I dream of childfree nights out, I’m desperate for a grandparent to offer to have Rico for a sleepover so I can enjoy my bed to myself (ha!), and lord behold... I might even be ready for a girls holiday (that’s if my anxiety doesn’t stop at this point, it will probably be Boris).
This months business in spotlight is the lovely and very talented business woman, Helly. Helly is a business, marketing and growth consultant who offers digital marketing solutions and business consultancy to small businesses and entrepreneurs. Helly has over 10 years experience supporting businesses and is passionate about empowering women to accomplish their goals. If your looking for a personal, results driven service – she’s your woman!
26 // Close Up Magazine
It’s funny because feeling like this has made me think, am I a bad mum? Is this normal? I love my baby more than anything in this world, so why am I craving a break? But I have come to the realisation that every journey is different and everyone’s experiences of motherhood are different, there’s actually no right or wrong way to feel or to do. I’ve also realised that as a human, I’m sure that there will always be something I feel guilt about, especially when it comes to Rico, wether it be what he’s eating, how he’s doing at school, his behaviour (the list goes on). Looking back, there were probably mums reading my original mum guilt blog, probably questioning themselves if they didn’t feel the same as me. It also made me remember that everything is temporary and as Jamie always says “it’s just a phase, trust the process” (God I hate when he’s right). So this is a message for anyone who needs it... trust in YOUR journey, trust in YOUR process, and as long as you know you’re doing the best for your baby regardless of any (stupid, annoying and ridiculous) guilt that comes with it – don’t let it ever take away from the AMAZING job you are doing! Until next time lovelies
Katerina x
Helly is offering a free power hour consultation to my readers, just quote this column! You can contact her with the information below.
Helly@hellylondon.com www.hellylondon.com @hellylondon
KEBLE PR EP We are pleased to invite you to our
OPEN MORNING Saturday 24th April 2021 | 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Keble Prep is a school that brings together all areas of learning, providing boys with a solid foundation to realise their potential, developing Keble boys who will Grow, Succeed & Achieve.
For further details please contact:
Andrea Michael Head of Marketing & Admissions to register your interest Keble Prep, Wades Hill, Winchmore Hill, London N21 1BG 020 8360 3359 | admissions@kebleprep.co.uk | www.kebleprep.co.uk
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@smeltalicious Fully insured and CLP compliant
EDITORIAL
VITA ET PAX Preparatory School
One of the most significant decisions a parent makes is how and where their child is educated. Firstly, they consider how schools, as academic centres, operate to actively expand minds. Equally significant is the foundation given for social development, where children learn the skills for living in a global society.
I
t is not enough for either of these to be done by half measure with tokenistic activity, the learning must be woven into the fabric of a school - through curriculum, culture and community building.
Curriculum Our curriculum ensures that high quality diverse books as well as diverse perspectives of humanities and science are a core part of the learning. Within each, there is opportunity to hold the mirror and window to the world through a platform of normalcy to build the global citizen that is important for current and future generations. Even more, it is in the provision of learning that is meaningful to our children. The science of learning, as fundamental to education, encompasses motivated participation brought by meaningful knowledge which through repetition and feedback can be transferred to new situations. Our impact focused school curriculum is structured to ensure that this happens regularly and that if there are areas of weaker knowledge, there is sufficient opportunity to strengthen. Our students can transfer understanding from the classroom to the world around us. This comes through not only academic success or progression to top schools but is also a key part of the community work undertaken to encourage participation in wider society.
Culture School is one of the largest forums for learning to communicate, compete and celebrate each other. The diversity of our surroundings is the diversity of our school. The cultural contribution that each individual makes shapes the ethos of the school and vice versa. At Vita et Pax we nurture confident, capable, caring children whose outlook is around demonstrating their best selves. As talents develop, they are recognised. Where shortfalls occur, they are supported, not only by staff but by their peers. Generating a culture of open, honest interaction entrenched in “Being a good Samaritan” to each other. We guide our children towards independence and responsibility with the final years taking on leadership roles within the school.
Community At Vita et Pax School, “we do not welcome a child; we welcome a family”. This is fundamental to our operation as a school community. The fastest way to successful education is when done in partnership with parents and the community schools serve. When the ideas and challenges of the classroom can be discussed by all parties; ready to listen and work in the interest of the child. We actively encourage all our parents to be a part of the school, whether running workshops around their careers, discussing their own child’s progress or manning events with our active Parents and Friends Association. So, as you head towards this decision on schooling, or the pandemic has made you think deeply around the person you wish your child to be, do consider that a foundation from Vita et Pax school gives the best platform towards a bright future.
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VITA ET PAX
PREPARATORY SCHOOL est. 1936
Nurturing confident, capable, caring individuals
Vita et Pax Preparatory is more than just a school, it is a community. Remote or live, our students enjoy a safe, engaging and stimulating environment. From the age of 3, our Nursery provides the highest level of nurture for children to confidently develop learning tools for their future. Small class sizes, attentive staff and strong parent partnerships ensure that every child can be their unique self as they flourish.
• Specialist teaching in Music & Spanish from 3+ • Wrap-Around care pre and past school hours • Cohesive parent partnership • Childcare vouchers accepted
Now Booking On-Site Tours @vitaetpaxprep
Contact Admissions to register your interest:
@vitaetpaxprep
Tel: 020 8449 8336 Email: info@vitaetpax.co.uk
Vita et Pax Preparatory School
Website: www.vitaetpax.co.uk
INTERVIEW
“It’s going to be the post pandemic party
THAT EVERYONE NEEDS!” TV personality, entrepreneur and social media sensation Charlotte Crosby has announced her debut 7-date UK tour – ‘One Night With Charlotte.’
Best known for being the stand out star of Geordie Shore, winner of Celebrity Big Brother and star of her own MTV reality show, Charlotte is one of the Nation’s most recognisable and loved names. Across the seven-nights, Charlotte will bring the audience into her world and everything in between! We caught up with Charlotte to discuss her tour and going from TV to stage.
final seen as I’m a huge fan of the show! But I must say, I loved being Pete he’s a great guy.
Congratulations on the announcement of your new tour ‘One Night with Charlotte’, can you tell us a little bit about it?
How do you handle dealing with social media trolls and what advice would you give to younger influencers currently being trolled?
It’s going to be the post pandemic party THAT EVERYONE NEEDS! Expect a trip down memory lane, loads of BTS stories from Geordie shore, DOZENS OF GAMES AND AMAZING PRIZES and some fun special guests! And lots of laughs, it’s so interactive with the audience just everyone having a great night hopefully. Can you give us a hint to one of the special guests? Expect to see some old Geordie favourites! Your hilarious Geordie Shore and Big Brother one-liners have brought happiness and laughter to the nation, will you be bringing those on tour with you?
No the boredom drove me insane!
I really pity trolls so I ignore them, that’s my way of dealing with any of their negativity! The vast majority of comments I get are positive so I literally skim past the hate and just focus on the all the kind stuff people say. I understand that not everyone can deal with it in the same way and my advice to a younger influencer would be to firstly look at what you’re posting that’s getting you such negative feedback, if the comments are unjustified (as so many are) and if you can’t ignore them then block, report, perhaps switch the comments on your posts off for a short period of time, or even go private for a while.
I really pity trolls so I ignore them, that’s my way of dealing with any of their negativity!
That’s exactly what the live show is basically just one big laugh! If you love me in all those shows you will love it first hand on stage! Has there been a huge difference for you going straight from TV to stage? It was soo scary when I did a trial run in Liverpool but that was with a quarter of the audience that there’s going to be on the actual tour so I’m absolutely shitting my pants. We will also be seeing you on our screens this month on Channel 4’s The Circle, can you tell us about your journey on the show? The circle was so much fun! But it was so short my journey on there was short and the show was quite short anyway! I would of loved it to go for longer and I would of loved to get into the
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Was it nice to have a break from your phone during filming for The Circle?
Will you be taking your love, Liam, with you on tour? He’s a videographer so he will be there as well hopefully working on capturing all the fun for an insane tour video! With a TV appearance and an O2 tour, are you working on anything else exciting for 2021? I have so much going on with my two businesses! Lots of new launches and exciting collaborations on the horizon! Also continuing to work with inthestyle on loads of great stuff. And a huge TV reunion that I think everyone is going to go mad for!
Tickets on sale now
https://www. livenation.co.uk/ artist/charlottecrosby-tickets
INTERVIEW
TOWIE’S NEW KID on the block
TOWIE returned to our screens last month for their 27th series – yes we said 27th! – and there’s a new face on the block that we simply HAD to get to know. New boy Reemiah ‘Rem’ Larue has joined the cast and doesn’t hold back… @remlarue
Congratulations on becoming the latest TOWIE member. How has the experience been so far? The experience has been great, obviously at first it was all new to me and a lot to get used to, but I feel like I picked it up quick and everyone was really helpful and great with me. How are you finding fitting in with the cast? I’ve found fitting in the cast easy if I’m honest, I know a lot of the cast and a few that are my close friends. Everyone has been welcoming, most of the cast have given me advice, good group of people.
I will say what I think and won’t hold back. Are there a lot of Covid regulations whilst filming? Yes, we do have to be very careful. We wear masks when we are not filming and are always 2 metres apart even when we are filming. Everyone is aware of what is going on and there is always a Covid Marshall on site to ensure we are doing things correct. What do you think you’ll be bringing to the show? I feel like I have a big personality. I will say what I think and won’t hold back. I’m always up for a laugh and a joke but I also have a side that if anyone gets on they will see me flip haha let’s see if we get to that stage. Have any of the cast members caught your eye? Haha you will have to watch the show and see…
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Your profession is DJ’ing, are you excited to get back to it once everything opens up? Will you be hosting a TOWIE party? Honestly I can’t wait to DJ again, it’s been a while. I miss that feeling off getting behind the deck and just getting the party alive. It would be rude to not host a TOWIE party, most of the cast love a night out and party so why not? Are you working on anything outside of filming with TOWIE? I am working on a few things, I want to level up and improve myself business wise and me as a person. I won’t reveal too much but in the next couple months you’ll all see what I’ve been working on...
FOOD
MEXICAN WAVE Missing holidays as much as we are? Try these at-home Mexican dishes that will be sure to have you feeling like you’re in Cancun!
PORK PIBIL NACHOS Nachos are the perfect meal to share with friends – place on the table and let everyone dive in! Our version uses a shortcut ingredient, our tender slowcooked Mexican pork, which adds gorgeous flavour to the dish. The pork would be delicious piled into buns or wraps, too. Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 35 minutes Total time: 50 minutes Serves 4 Ingredients 368g pack Waitrose & Partners Slow Cooked Mexican Pork Pibil 250g pack cherry tomatoes, quartered 1 small red onion, diced 1 lime, juice 3 tbsp soured cream Pinch ground cumin 1 avocado 1 jalapeno chilli 200g pack salted tortilla chips 1-2 tbsp chipotle hot sauce (Cholula hot sauce works well) 75g essential Waitrose Lighter Mature Grated Cheese Method Preheat the oven to 200˚C, gas mark 6. Remove the pork from all the packaging and put the meat and liquor into the foil tray provided. Cover with foil and cook for 15 minutes, then remove the foil and cook for a further 15 minutes. Take out of the oven, discard the cooking liquor and shred the meat with two forks.
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Meanwhile, prepare all the other ingredients. Toss the tomatoes, onion and juice of ½ lime; set aside. Mix the remaining juice of ½ lime with the soured cream and cumin. Slice the avocado and jalapeno chilli. Arrange the tortilla chips on a large baking tray.Scatter with the pork, then drizzle with the hot sauce. Top with the tomatoes and onion, jalapeno chilli and cheddar, and return to the oven for 5 minutes. Scatter over the avocado, spoon over the soured cream sauce and serve immediately.
MEXICAN-STYLE BEEF SALAD Salad but not as you know it. Zingy, spicy, creamy, crunchy – we’ve combined Mexicaninspired ingredients to create one colourful salad full of interesting textures and flavours. Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 20 minutes Total time: 40 minutes Serves 4 Ingredients 2 tsp sunflower oil 2 sweetcorn on the cob 250g pack Waitrose & Partners Rump Steak Fajita Stir Fry 150ml reduced-fat soured cream ¼ tsp Tabasco Pepper Sauce 1 lime, zest and juice Pinch salt ½ small red onion, finely sliced ½ iceberg lettuce, shredded 1 red pepper, deseeded and sliced 1 avocado, sliced 1 jalapeno chilli, sliced Handful salted tortilla chips, roughly crushed Method Heat 1 tsp oil in a non-stick frying pan over a medium-high heat. Add the corn on the cob and fry for 10 minutes, turning regularly until golden all over; set aside. Add the remaining 1 tsp oil to the pan, stir in the beef fajita strips and fry for 6 minutes, turning regularly until all the surfaces of the meat are thoroughly cooked. Meanwhile, make the dressing by mixing the soured cream, Tabasco, lime zest, ½ the lime juice and the salt; set aside. Put the red onion in a small bowl with the remaining juice of ½ lime; set aside. Arrange the lettuce, pepper, avocado, jalapeno and tortilla chips over a large serving plate. Slice the corn from the cobs (place the cobs upright on a chopping board and slice downwards) and scatter over the salad with the cooked beef and pickled onions. Tip any lime juice from the onions into the dressing, then spoon over the salad to serve.
Cook’s tip Want to save 10 minutes? Use a drained 326g can of sweetcorn instead of the charred corn on the cob.
Recipes and images courtesy of Waitrose. Thousands of recipes can be found at www.waitrose.com
Close Up Magazine // 35
HOT topic Close Up’s monthly round-up of what’s hot right now.
THE BOOK CLUB
LIDO LADIES
Many of us are spending more time indoors than ever before, and that means more time to dive into our reading lists. Whether you’ve promised yourself you’ll read more in the new year or you simply need an escape from the world right now, our list of the top 3 books of 2021 has you covered.
“We are Nicola and Jessica, two ladies who love to swim – especially in Lidos. Our mission is simple: to encourage everyone, no matter what age, size or ability, to swim for both physical and mental wellbeing. Because after all, how can anyone be grumpy when donning a flowery hat at their local outdoor Lido?
THE PUSH: A NOVEL By Ashley Audrain £12.99
I (Jessica, 56) suffered with terrible anxiety after a traumatic event, but I found an oasis of calm in the form of my local Lido. After years away from the water, I returned to the pool and what started as a quick dip, became almost a daily meditation. Nicola (55) swam competitively in her youth, but after years behind a corporate desk, her joints were beginning to creak. We met walking our dogs in the park and after getting to know each other (over several glasses of red wine), I persuaded Nicola to get back into the water – we haven’t looked back since (lockdown aside of course).
Fans of psychological thrillers, crack open this one about the relationship between mothers and daughters. Before Blythe’s daughter is born, she wants to create the deep bond she never had with her own mum. But when Violet arrives, she’s convinced something’s wrong with her little girl. The tragic events that follow will make you question her sanity, and the story she’s telling us. THE WIFE UPSTAIRS By Rachel Hawkins £6.99 The plot might feel familiar in this feminist twist on a classic gothic romance. Broke dog walker Jane has her sights on the wealthy Eddie Rochester. Eddie’s got a past, but then again, so does she. Read to find out whether either of them can ever escape their secrets, or if their forbidden tryst is doomed to failure.
We have a passion for life, swimming and having fun. We want to continue to inspire others, especially women of our age, to move more, embrace themselves and reap the benefits of a quiet moment in a busy world. Outdoor swimming has helped us heal from past anxieties and rejuvenated our minds and bodies. We want to inject a wave of confidence to those who have lost it. You’ll be surprised what you discover as you experience the romance and decadent architecture of La Dolce Vita era! We also want people to fall in love with Britain again, rediscovering the delights of a good staycation and reintroducing the community spirit, fun and culture of our beloved Lidos, at a time where both travel and income are compromised for so many. Now’s the time to dive in and let go!” @lidoladieslondon
ACTION FOR STAMMERING William Laven is a 22-year-old inspirational young man from Walton, UK who was born with a stammer. Despite experiencing devastating bullying, William is now encouraging others not to let the condition, or the pandemic, hold them back, having mobilised a new movement to raise awareness about the impediment, which affects over 150,000 children and young people across the UK.
THE BEAUTY OF LIVING TWICE By Sharon Stone £15.19
Bridgerton brought stammering back to our consciousness in the past few months and of course it’s given hope to William and thousands of others to see Joe Biden in the White House, who famously overcame a severe stammer.
In a gorgeous memoir that talks about how she put her life back together after a massive medical event, actress and humanitarian Sharon Stone lets us all in to her world. Whether you’ve followed her work or not, this slice of life makes a great read.
Since the Covid-19 outbreak, Action for Stammering Children’s helpline has received 57% more calls from parents and therapists expressing their deep concern for the levels of anxiety they are witnessing from affected children. Understandably, with social distancing comes less talking, meaning increased stammering.
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Having become a ‘Stambassador’ for ASC, he established a podcast series named ‘Stammer Stories’, recorded a podcast episode with YouTube royalty Jonathan Saccone-Joly and personally reached out to Buckingham Palace to confirm the Queen’s written support for his mission. William is determined to make a real difference.
BAKES BY ANDREA tray bakes | COOKIES | cupcakes | BROWNIES
NORTH LONDON AND HERTFORDSHIRE DELIVERY @bakes_by_andrea
A luxurious box of treats to satisfy your wildest sweet tooth! Littles Treats are a boutique cookie and cake company, thriving to be the most tasty treats in town. With flavours beyond your imagination, our gift boxes are the perfect present to put a smile on someone’s face. hello@littlestreats.co.uk @littletreats
www.littlestreats.co.uk
Carlos welcomes you to Judges
Serving you the finest of food and cocktails in our beer garden from Monday 12th April Opening Times: Monday to Sunday 12.00-11.00pm Garden area open
@judges_restaurant
@judgesnorthaw
www.judges-restaurant.com Judges, 1 Judges Hill, Northaw, Potters Bar EN6 4NL Tel: 01707 802104 or 07960 895479
Authentic Italian Wood-Fired Pizzas
Heddons Kitchen has branched out! We will now be offering a delicious selection of sourdough 48-hour fermentation pizzas, topped with only the finest ingredients, sourced directly from Italy! Find us in our brand new kitchen beside Country Club Trent Park for click & collect collections from 12pm-10pm. You can also dine on the Country Club Trent Park glass covered terrace from Monday 12th April from 12pm-10pm.
For bookings and ordering, scan the QR code above. On arrival at your table, follow the steps via the app to make your order. Table serviced drinks available.
Country Club Trent Park, Bramley Road, London N14 4UW
WISHlist Close Up’s monthly guide to what you should be wishing for…
LASH HERO
YOUR BEST YOU
MUST-HAVE!
Cruelty-free and volumizing, this jet black mascara harnesses the benefits of low preservative and natural lash conditioning ingredients to deliver long-lasting volume and luscious lengths! The ultimate test for a new makeup bag staple!
We all know the pressure of feeling like we should be grinding 24/7 while simultaneously being told that we should ‘just relax’ and take care of ourselves. Grace Beverley confronts this unrealistic split, and offers a fresh take on how to navigate modern life.
The perfect tool to prep your complexion for the next steps of your skincare routine. Create a selfcare ritual that can help reduce tension in both your skin and your mind. Providing instant relaxation, prepping your skin to achieve a toned and flawless base.
Lush Lashes Mascara uk.lush.com £15.50
Working Hard, Hardly Working www.waterstones.com £14.99
360˚ Roller www.iconiclondoninc.com £35
#TRENDING
WILD THING
HIGH BROW
Indoor plants are certainly having a moment right now. It seems everywhere you turn there are green fronds trailing across shelves, jungle size plants bursting out of corners, and succulents taking residence on coffee tables.
Stylish and dramatic, this leopard printed cushion is sure to spruce up your interior decoration. Add a little bit of wild life into your home this Spring with animal printed cushions, blankets and even wallpaper!
Home Green Faux Plant www.tkmaxx.com £12.99
Printed Leopard Cushion www.wilko.com £8
Influencer Jess Hunt has stormed into the beauty world with her incredible brow product collection! The must-have products allow you to sculpt, shade and define your brows. Follow the 3.0 stage process to create a very natural look, or exaggerated fuller creations. Brow Collection www.refybeauty.com £40
PUCKER UP
BACK WITH A BANG
FOODIE ALERT
Suffering from dry, chapped lips? We are obsessed with the limited edition Neon Cherry Pot by Carmex! Reliable protection in a sweet cherry flavour, for brilliant looking lips and a hit of moisturising relief.
Begone hot pants —mom shorts are back and look better than ever. Throughout the 1950s, Jacqueline Kennedy put a nautical spin on the look with a sleeveless buttondown, while Julia Roberts sported a soft red pair in the 1990 film Pretty Woman. Get the look this summer!
If you’ve spent as much time scrolling through social media as we have during quarantine, you’ve probably heard of the latest kitchen device trend: air fryers. They’re healthier, easier to use, and instead of cooking food in oil and grease, the air fryer simply uses hot air to make food nice and crispy.
Raw Hem Longline Mom Shorts www.primark.com £13
Manual Air Fryer www.very.co.uk £44.99
Carmex Limited Edition Neon Cherry Pot www.prettylittlething.com £2.99
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Limited Edition: Flavours of Japan spring cupcake box
4 x Cherry blossom cupcakes • 4 x Yuzu cupcakes • 4 x Black sesame cupcakes All made fresh using unique ingredients imported from Japan
Triantafilo & Mastiha (Rose & Mastic) flavoured cakes and cupcakes also available.
These have a rose flavoured sponge with a rose & mastic filling and a mastic buttercream. Other flavours also available, please get in contact for prices.
Delivery to North London & Hertfordshire Orders can be placed by direct messaging us on our Scrummy bakes instagram account or via whatsApp @scrummybakes
07856 776161
INTERVIEW
Employment rights and
THE VACCINE
Hatti Suvari is the consumer advocate and podcast host empowering the British public with their rights. Motivated by a passion to democratise the public’s access to justice, Hatti created Get Legally Speaking, the UK’s first and leading legal podcast. Since realising those around her who weren’t immersed in the legal world were falling victim to expensive legal costs and myths in the system, Hatti became passionate about debunking, and demystifying the law.
Ensuring you’re familiar with your employment rights is very important - now more than ever. For many of us who have either returned to work, or those who are having discussions about returning to work with our employers following the easing of our lockdown restrictions, it’s important to have clarity. So, what are our rights if you do not want to take the COVID-19 vaccine? Can your employer insist that you do? Is there a ‘no jab no job’ threat? The short answer is no, your employer cannot force you, or insist that you take the COVID-19 jab. What are your employment rights if your employer dismisses you, as a result of you not wanting to have the jab? The issue of unfair dismissal could come in to play, and you should take immediate legal advice if you are concerned that you have been unfairly dismissed. ACAS (the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) gives employees and employers free, impartial advice on workplace rights, rules and best practice. They also offer training and help to resolve disputes. There is a key point to remember if a claim for unfair dismissal is to be made once you have taken legal advice, as to whether or not you have been unfairly dismissed, and that is that you only have 3 months less 1 day from the date of the dismissal, or when you departed company with your employer, perhaps as a result of feeling ‘pushed out’ to be able to make a claim in the Employment Tribunal. It is important to remember, that your employer is under a duty to provide a safe working environment for you and all of its staff, and indeed customers and clients that the business may come in to contact with, and therefore if you are reluctant to take the COVID-19 jab, then try and consider the position your employer is in, having to adhere to laws on how to keep you, your colleagues and its customers safe.
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Perhaps you have had the jab, but your colleague is refusing to have the jab, what obligations does your employer have to make sure that your working environment is safe? If you find yourself in a situation where your colleague(s) are refusing to have the jab, and you are not willing to work alongside close proximity with them as a result, then relay your concerns to your employer in writing as well as verbally, to try and see if all parties can assist with trying to find a solution, for example if people could potentially be moved to other areas of the premises. Whilst having the COVID-19 jab is not currently mandatory by law, it is the Government’s role to protect us and to work towards keeping us all safe, and employers have to abide by laws to protect you, your colleagues and its customers. It is always best to try and avoid contentious situations, and talking things through with a view to try and find a mutually agreeable solution, is always the best way.
For further legal advice, tune in to Hatti’s podcast Get Legally Speaking available on Apple Podcast and Spotify.
BUZZING ATMOSPHERE, IT’S A MUST TRY! FEELS LIKE HOME WHEN YOU GO IN AMAZING SHOP! VERY FRIENDLY STAFF
020 8365 7102
148 High Road, Wood Green, N22 6EB
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A UNIQUE GREEK BAKERY IN THE HEART OF WOOD GREEN
FOOD
JAPANESE DREAM Make your own Ramen and Sushi Rolls! Try your hand at these Japanese-inspired dishes.
TERIYAKI CHICKEN SUSHI HAND ROLLS Preparation time: 20 minutes, plus marinating and cooling Cooking time: 30 minutes Total time: 50 minutes, plus marinating and cooling Makes 8 rolls Ingredients 6 skinless chicken thigh fillets 5 tbsp teriyaki sauce 125g sushi rice, rinsed 2 tbsp sushi rice vinegar 4 sheets nori 1 Waitrose & Partners Extra Large Perfectly Ripe Avocado, halved and sliced into long strips 3 salad onions, halved and sliced into long strips 1 tsp toasted white or Cooks’ Ingredients Black Sesame Seeds, or a mix of both Method Marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes (up to 24 hours). Put the rice in a pan and cook according to pack instructions. Take off the heat, set aside and cover for 10 minutes. Uncover, stir in the vinegar and cool to room temperature (or chill until ready to use). Preheat the grill to high. Put the chicken on a foil-lined baking sheet and pour over any excess marinade. Grill for 15 minutes, turning and basting every 5 minutes, until cooked through, the juices run clear and there is no pink meat. The fillets should be coated in a sticky sauce; set them aside to cool slightly (or chill until ready to use). To assemble, halve the nori sheets (to make 8 strips, each roughly 10cm x 20cm). Spread 1/8 of the sushi rice (about 50g) on the left half of one strip and arrange some sliced teriyaki chicken, avocado and salad onion on top. Sprinkle with a few sesame seeds, then roll up into a cone. Lightly wet the edge of the nori so it sticks together. Repeat to make 8 hand rolls. Serve with soy sauce and wasabi paste for dipping, if liked.
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Cook’s tip If you’re short on time, use a 400g pack of cooked sushi rice instead of the rice and vinegar in step 1.
SPICY YUZU MISO RAMEN WITH PRAWNS Preparation time: 5 minutes Cooking time: 10 minutes Total time: 15 minutes Serves 2 Ingredients 100g buckwheat soba noodles (or your favourite variety, prepared according to pack instructions) 1 tsp toasted sesame oil 2 tbsp white miso paste 150g shiitake mushrooms, sliced 2 salad onions, white and green parts separated and chopped 1 pak choi bulb, stem shredded, leaves left whole 150g pack raw king prawns 1 tsp Waitrose Cooks’ Ingredients Yuzu Juice 1 red chilli, sliced (deseeded if liked) Method Bring a large pan of water to the boil, add the noodles and simmer for 4 minutes (watch carefully as buckwheat noodles can overboil easily). Drain and rinse under cold water, then toss with the sesame oil and divide between 2 bowls. Rinse out the pan and pour in 500ml justboiled water. Whisk in the miso paste. Add the mushrooms and white parts of the salad onions; simmer for 3 minutes. Add the pak choi stem and prawns; simmer for 3-4 minutes until the prawns are fully cooked, opaque and pink throughout, then stir through the pak choi leaves and yuzu juice. Ladle the soup over the noodles and scatter with the salad onion greens and sliced chilli. overboil easily). Drain and rinse under cold water, then toss with the sesame oil and divide between 2 bowls.
Cook’s tip Yuzu is a Japanese citrus fruit with hints of mandarin and lime. Its juice is a great match for all types of fish and is lovely drizzled over salads and noodles. Recipes and images courtesy of Waitrose. Thousands of recipes can be found at www.waitrose.com
Close Up Magazine // 47
HEALTH
MYTH: Debunked! It’s time to put an end to the most alluring eating-related science myths, misconceptions, and inaccuracies passed down through the ages. To help the cause, we’ve rounded up and corrected dozens of the most shocking food “facts.”
MYTH!
MYTH! The 3-second rule. It’s the worst when something you really wanted to eat falls on the floor. But if you grab it in three seconds, it’s ok, right? The three-secondrule isn’t a real thing. Bacteria can contaminate a food within milliseconds. Myth-busting tests show that moist foods attract more bacteria than dry foods, but there’s no “safe duration.” Instead, safety depends on how clean the surface you dropped the food on is. Whether you eat it or not after that is up to you, but if the people that walk on that floor are also walking around town, for example, we wouldn’t recommend it.
MYTH!
Brown sugar is healthier than white sugar. Sugar that’s the colour of dirt doesn’t make it more “natural” or healthier than its white counterpart. The colour comes from a common residual sticky syrup, called molasses. Brown sugar retains some of that molasses. In fact, brown sugar is mostly white sugar with some molasses — so refining it further would give you white table sugar. While molasses contains some vitamins and minerals like potassium and magnesium, there is not enough in your standard brown sugar packet that should make you reach for it if you’re trying to eat healthier. As far as your body is concerned, white and brown sugar are one-in-the-same.
A juice cleanse will detoxify you after an eating binge. Your body naturally removes harmful chemicals through the liver, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract — there’s nothing about juice that will hurry that process along. Juicing mainly just removes digestion-aiding fibre from fruits and vegetables. Also consider that many sugary fruit juices are as bad for you as fizzy drinks. And while some juices are just fine, they don’t provide anything that you wouldn’t get by eating the whole components instead.
MYTH! MYTH!
An apple a day keeps the doctor away. Apples are packed with vitamin C and fibre, both of which are important to long-term health, but they aren’t all you need. If certain viruses or bacteria get into your system, an apple will unfortunately do nothing to protect you.
There’s beaver butt secretions in your vanilla ice cream. You’ve probably heard that a secretion called castoreum, isolated from the anal gland of a beaver, is used in flavourings and perfumes. But castoreum is so expensive, at up to £70 per pound of anal gland (the cost to humanely milk castoreum from a beaver is likely even higher), that it’s unlikely to show up in anything you eat. In 2011, the Vegetarian Resource Group wrote to five major companies that produce vanilla flavouring and asked if they use castoreum. The answer: According to the Federal Code of Regulations, they can’t. (The FDA highly regulates what goes into vanilla flavouring and extracts.)
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LIVING H&M Fallen Fruits Garden Tool Belt Dobbies £11.99
Solar White Wire Lantern Next £10
Gardening Gauntlets Annabel James £27.95
The
WILD SIDE Do you have a green thumb or just looking to transform your garden as the weather gets nicer? Gardening will be popular this summer, especially since more and more people are spending time in their gardens due to lockdown. Gardening can be a task so we want to make it easier by providing you with the best gardening tools. We have picked out favourites here. Memo Board Mint Green Peg & Board £75
Short Metal Watering Can Oliver Bonas £27.50
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Plantfulness Lawrence King Publishing £14.99
Personalised Luxe Copper Trowel and Fork Set Treat Republic £45.99
Time to Grow with
‘The Gardening Club’ At ‘The Gardening Club’, we can help get your garden looking its best for the Spring and Summer season, whether you know your plants or just want instant plants and colour, we have something for everyone. The Gardening Club has got everything you need to revitalise your outdoor space and get you back in the fresh air after what has felt like forever stuck inside. Our coffee shop is open for takeaway with hot/cold drinks, sandwiches and scrummy fresh cakes and when regulations allow, we have a Mediterranean themed seating area to relax, take in the atmosphere and the scent of the flowering plants. Anyone can join The Gardening Club, for only £5 for the first year and then only £2.50 per year afterwards. You can join online at www.thegardeningclub.co.uk or at reception, in return we offer low price, quality plants, with regular offers and discounts throughout the year. We also have a Trade Membership available to Landscapers and Gardening businesses. With its massive selection of plants and garden sundries, large car park, coffee shop and step free access isn’t it time you paid a visit to The Gardening Club?
The Gardening Club Park View Nurseries Theobalds Park Road Enfield EN2 9BQ 020 8367 9406 Check out our website www.thegardeningclub.co.uk for details and follow us on: @gardeningclubuk
@gardeningclubuk
Start in April…
It is never too early to start growing your own vegetables, herbs, summer bedding and hanging basket plants, start them on a windowsill or in a greenhouse, before planting out when frosty nights have passed.
SPONSORED 5 HOUR HELP THE HOMELESS WALK All donations will be divided equally between 5 different organisations who do their part to help! Organisations include: /LOLASHOMELESS @STREETANGELSUK @STREETKINDUK @BACKONYOURFEAT @C86ERZ @GROOVEGROOMGRUB
SATURDAY 22ND MAY 2021 SHOREDITCH TO CHESHUNT (A10) 10AM – 3PM Please contact @kslondon_ directly if you’d like to be a part of the walk.
Donate via the GoFundMe page: https://www.gofundme.com/f/sponsored-help-the-homeless-walk
FILM REVIEW
WHAT’S ON NETFLIX The seemingly endless scroll of Netflix’s treasure trove of terrific shows and movies can be more than a little paralyzing when trying to choose something to watch. If you’ve just finished a good series and need a new one to fill the void, Close Up is assembling a monthly list of the best TV shows currently available on the streaming service, from classics of yesteryear to the hottest new titles. Below, we’ve rounded up the best shows on Netflix right now, so you can binge-watch without having to hunt for the right title.
UNBELIEVABLE When teenager Marie Adler (Kaitlyn Dever) files a police report claiming she’s been sexually assaulted by an intruder in her home, the investigating detectives, as well as the people closest to her, come to doubt the truth of her story. Meanwhile, hundreds of miles away, detectives Grace Rasmussen and Karen Duvall (Emmy winners Toni Collette and Merritt Wever) meet while investigating an eerily similar pair of intruder rapes and partner to catch a potential serial rapist. “Unbelievable” is a story of unspeakable trauma, unwavering tenacity, and astounding resilience.
PRANK ENCOUNTERS Hosted by Gaten Matarazzo (Stranger Things), each episode of this terrifying and hilarious prank show takes two complete strangers on the surprise ride of a lifetime. It’s business as usual until their paths collide and their one-day assignments turn into supernatural surprises. Where fear meets funny, Prank Encounters is the most elaborate hidden camera prank show ever devised.
BEHIND HER EYES Simona Brown plays Louise, a single mother who has an affair with her psychiatrist boss David (Tom Bateman). Her life takes a strange turn when she later befriends his wife Adele (Eve Hewson), and she finds herself caught in a web of secrets and lies where nothing is what it seems. Based on the best-selling novel by Sarah Pinborough.
52 // Close Up Magazine
MARRIAGE OR MORTGAGE
WAFFLES + MOCHI
Married or single, we’ve all heard it. “You could buy a house for the price of that wedding!” But have you ever stopped to think, what if you actually did? Nashville-based wedding planner Sarah Miller and real estate agent Nichole Holmes are here to help couples make this decision. Sarah, a hopeless romantic who spared no expense planning her own wedding, evidently shares the same sentiment as many of her brides and grooms... your wedding day is the most important and happiest day of your life, and the memories you make are priceless. But when you ask twice-divorced Nichole, if it doesn’t make dollars it doesn’t make sense!
Once upon a thyme, deep in The Land of Frozen Food, lived two best friends named Waffles and Mochi with one shared dream: to become chefs! The only problem? Everything they cooked was made of ice. When these two taste-buddies are suddenly hired as employees of a whimsical supermarket, they’re ready for the culinary adventure of a lifetime. With the help of friendly new faces like Mrs. Obama, Waffles and Mochi blast off on global ingredient missions, traveling to kitchens, restaurants, farms and homes, cooking up recipes with everyday ingredients alongside renowned chefs, kids and celebrities.
THIS IS A ROBBERY: THE DA D S T O P E M B A R A S S I N G M E ! WORLD’S BIGGEST ART HEIST Brian Dixon (Jamie Foxx), successful business owner and It was the biggest art heist in history: Over St. Patrick’s Day weekend in 1990, legendary works by Rembrandt, Vermeer and others worth over half a billion dollars today were stolen from the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston. This four-part documentary series from director Colin Barnicle covers the leads, dead ends, lucky breaks and speculations that characterized the investigation of this still unsolved mystery.
bachelor, just became a full-time father to his teenage daughter Sasha (Kyla-Drew). Determined to be the best father he can be, Brian’s going to need all the help he can get from his dad (David Alan Grier) and sister (Porscha Colema). Full of heart and humour, Dad Stop Embarrassing Me is inspired by Foxx’s real-life relationship with daughter Corinne Foxx, who also serves as executive producer.
Close Up Magazine // 53
LIVING Small Metal Bowl Wilko £4
H&M
Raffia Square Basket Bobby Rabbit £30
Rattan Table Lamp Ceramic Base Only Dar Lighting Group £108
Blanket Zara £69.99
Going
GREEN Stella Sage Green Velvet Cult Furniture £79
Organic, natural and clean. Whether you’re planning to give your kitchen a facelift or want to spruce up a tiredlooking living room, green is the hue to choose. Many find this colour soothing and peaceful due to its therapeutic properties. Rich green shades work well in home offices or rooms with technology to balance out the ‘artificial’ feeling.
Royal Doulton Pacific Mint Dinner Plates – Set of 6 Amara £72
Green Linen Napkins 2 Pack Primark £3
Wild Mint and Lime Candle Joe Browns £25
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Velvet Cushion M&Co £12.99
Considering a move to the
COUNTRYSIDE? The peace of the countryside is hard to beat – no police sirens or helicopters, angry motorists blasting their horns or noisy neighbours returning home from a wild night in town. The evenings are very quiet and it’s really noticeable how bright the moon light is when there are no streetlights to detract from it. My kids were young when we moved here and I didn’t feel anxious about them cycling or walking through the village, I’d have sleepless nights at the thought of them crossing a London road. I go on daily walks now and have acquired a cute dog; the two go hand in hand in the countryside. I never get tired of seeing a herd of deer, a bird of prey stalking a mouse or a breath-taking sunset.
H
aving worked at Peter Barry for twenty years I’ve seen numerous changes but recently the most noticeable has been the large number of clients who are choosing to leave London; taking the plunge of a new life in the English countryside. Back in 2012 my family and I did that very thing, leaving behind our lovely semi to live in a quaint Essex village complete with an old church, pub, pond and green.
There are some drawbacks to life in the country. If we run out of milk it’s a car journey to the nearest shop and that’s only if it’s still open, you soon learn to plan every meal in advance to reduce the need for these detours. Buses run infrequently and stop at 8.00pm and there’s only 1 train into London or Cambridge per hour! When I just miss my train, I curse country life and pine for London. My kids are teenagers and envy the ease with which their old friends back in London can get around. I would whole heartily recommend a move to the countryside; I love it and nine years on still feel so fortunate to take the turn which leads to my village knowing London isn’t too far away either.
The main difference has been the sense of community. In London I only knew my immediate neighbours but village folk have been very welcoming – despite it being a small village there’s a lot of busy clubs in the Village Hall for all ages. I hear neighbours refer to ‘our village’ and there’s a quarterly magazine with a surprising amount of news despite there only being 200 homes. It’s a special place and gives me a sense of warmth that I belong to this fabulous rural community.
Whether selling or letting contact Peter Barry for a free market appraisal: Tel: 020 8360 4777 Email: info@pbea.co.uk Follow us on
peterbarryestateagents
Close Up Magazine // 55
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Deceptively Spacious & Extended 5 Bedroom Halls Adjoining Semi with Larger Than Average Ground Floor Accommodation. Beautiful Garden. OSP.
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Detached House with Wide Garden. 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, 2 Reception Rooms + Luxury Fitted Kitchen/Diner. OSP.
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125 Cockfosters Road, Cockfosters, Barnet, Herts EN4 0DA Tel: 020 8449 2255 Email: sales@michaelwright.co.uk www.michaelwright.co.uk
EDITORIAL
MONEY TALKS Instagram money advisor Gemma Bird gives us her top tips to reaching your goals! @MoneyMumOfficial
I
n 2019, I decided to start an Instagram page. I wanted to make the page fun, relatable and something that was different on Instagram. I set out a goal to make saving cool again! I think that it is so important, especially for our younger generation that we show the importance of managing our money and not getting in to debt by trying to keep up with others on social media platforms. I am just a normal girl with a husband, Adam, two children, Brody (8 years old) and Bronte (2 years old) and, like all mums, have had to learn to manage with more mouths to feed. Every day I share a money tip. This can be anything from the best savings accounts, food shop deals, eBay tips, getting refunds on certain things, cooking cheaply, Sky TV tips, renting driveways, instore reward cards, Amazon Warehouse and many, many more. I believe it’s not just what you bring in but what goes out too. It’s also all the small things that add up. It’s trying to show people, the things that we do every day can lead to big changes if we just change the small things like the daily coffee, walking instead of driving, taking out a packed lunch, looking for deals, taking your time when in the supermarket, writing a list and sticking to that list, etc. I often hear people say “it’s only £10!”, but I do not agree with that. For a lot of people, that £10 can be over an hour’s work. If we started to look at how long it takes for us to earn that “spend”, then we would see money in a different light. If we can change our mindset, this in turn, would make us able to save and understand the value of our money a lot better. I really want my tips to be seen from all walks of life and help as many people as possible and make them realise that you don’t always have to show how amazing something is because it costs a lot of money.
58 // Close Up Magazine
HERE ARE A FEW OF MY TOP TIPS: Take a flask out as well as a packed lunch to save spending on expensive coffees and takeaway lunches.
Shop wisely at supermarkets – look at cost per gram/kilo/ litre. Also, goods NOT in packaging such as bananas are cheaper than a packaged pack of 5!
Rent out your driveway for extra monthly income.
Don’t accept utility companies increases without a phone call and haggle!
Sell clothes/products on eBay and don’t be afraid to buy second hand clothes on there either, as you will be reimbursed for items if they are not as advertised if you pay via PayPal.
Bespoke wood flooring made in England
Crouch End & Clerkenwell 0208 341 9222 | jordanandrews.com