Darling Magazine Kingston April-May 2015

darling April – May 2015 free

SARAH TAYLOR a dynamic doer from Surbiton

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THE BEAUTY GUIDE What's HOT in health and beauty

WOMEN IN POLITICS Why are we still in the minority?

TOP TIPS for cutting inheritance tax bills

NOW is the perfect time to

CLEANSE YOUR BODY Great caregivers are our

SUPERHEROES Children's charity MOMENTUM's GARDEN at the Chelsea Flower Show

inspiring local women in kingston and surbiton | www.darlingmagazine.co.uk

CELEBRATE IN STYLE

AT WA R R E N H O U S E

Josh Tucker Photography

For bookings please call 020 8547 1777 or email: info@warrenhouse.com Warren House, Warren Road, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey KT2 7HY warrenhouse.com

editor’s letter

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Dear Darling reader,

B Cover: sarah taylor Photography by Annie Armitage Makeup by makeup artist Rachel Barclay Clothes from shoes at last

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Publisher Darling Magazine UK Karine Torr Editor Marja-Leena Toseland All Enquiries 07802 949836 Email kingston@ darlingmagazine.co.uk Contributors Lyndsay Russell, Paul Mendelson Photography Annie Armitage annie@anniearmitage.com Design Anu West info@apila.co.uk Printer Aquatint/bsc jane@aquatintbsc.co.uk Distribution Three Colours Ltd info@3colours.co.uk Darling Wimbledon Karine Torr: 07930 396356 Darling Cobham, Esher & Weybridge Philippa Hennessy: 07772 633339

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Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. Darling Magazine does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system, or transmitted in any form – electronic, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from the publisher.

lossoms, daffodils and April showers! This issue celebrates spring. Our inspiring woman Sarah Taylor’s beautiful boutique has already welcomed the new season and she tells us how she’s bucking the trend of online sales so successfully. Now is also a perfect time to check out where to go for the latest hair and beauty treatments and, for a complete mind and body cleanse, Chris James tells us what amazing effects it can have. And if you’ve tried almost everything else to get better, find out if Gaia healing or kinesiology could work for you. Rev. Ingrid Scott inspires us to be the best ‘us’, as everyone else is taken.

Should we have more women in politics? Baroness Jenny Tonge of Kew is a strong advocate for women’s equality and shares her ideas for improving the balance and, with the General Election nearly upon us, we have the power to decide.

In the homes and interiors section, Haven Construction brings you fresh ideas for your home renovation or, if you just want to to freshen things up, see what Absolute Abode, Seriously Sofas and Bathroom Eleven have up their sleeves.

Look out for Superheroes - the caregivers that can change lives. Home Instead needs more of them!

Local children’s charity Momentum are excited about their garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. Enjoy the read and the change of the season.

Marja-Leena Toseland Editor | kingston@darlingmagazine.co.uk CONTENTS 3 4 6 8 9 11 13 15 17 19 20 21 22 23 24 26 31 33 39 40 41 42

Editor's letter Sarah Taylor – a dynamic doer from Surbiton Where to get the looks this spring How to skyrocket your confidence Being You requires a soul connection Women in politics Kingston – a borough full of superheroes A chance to get up close and personal with local artists Momentum is going to Chelsea Building new friendships in the community Cook's corner Spring is a perfect time for a cleanse Do you know about kinesiology?

What an amazing feeling to be eczema free!

Ten tips to save inheritance tax On the scene – people out and about in and around Kingston A new "Aura" is sweeping through Raynes Park Change your lifestyle, go down under Size does matter – gardening column What's on?

Bridge – identify the villain Point of view – Mindfullness

darlingmagazine.co.uk | april – may 2015

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inspiring woman

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A dynamic doer from Surbiton Maple Road in Surbiton just wouldn’t be the same without Sarah Taylor and her fabulous shop, shoes at last

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arah Taylor was instrumental in starting the Award Winning Maple Road Farmers’ Market in 2009 and worked tirelessly as its co-chair until last year when she let go of the reins.

It’s now run very successfully by local residents.

She has a great relationship with the other businesses in Maple Road. Over the last 12 years they have together raised money for charities, including Dysart School and the Meningitis trust. As well as still helping with Farmers' market, Sarah organises the Christmas trees to go up outside each building and if there’s an event, such as the rugby world cup, they get the flags and bunting out!

There may be only 14 businesses along this strip of Maple Road but they are all independently run and supportive of each other.

You set up shoes at last 12 years ago. Where did the inspiration to set up your own business come from?

“I opened shoes at last in 2003, after 20 years in fashion retail at a London business. I worked my

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Sarah Taylor (right) wearing a jacket and scarf by Sandwich with Darling Editor Marja-Leena Toseland in Bitte Kai Rand

way up the company by starting on the London flagship sales floor to managing it. After eight years I was promoted to opening

I felt I had more than enough experience to go out on my own, and, personally, the thought of not having a boss was the icing

“Many customers come in or email me saying they were stopped in the street and asked where they got their jacket or dress, and of course, shoes, from.” and managing 28 stores and over 150 wonderful employees across the UK, then I was asked to go into the catalogue marketing and web design.

april – may 2015 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

on the cake. To this day, I’ve not regretted a thing!!!’

The original idea was to sell an eclectic range of shoes and accessories. All was going very

inspiring woman

..................... well. However, seven years later the world was going through the toughest recession, independent retailers were closing down left, right and centre.

E-commerce was taking over. I had to re-evaluate my business.

Fortunately, after developing an extremely loyal customer base, I could see a demand for clothing. I was looking for that little something again, like the shoes, that could be a bit different. Danish brands seem to tick all the right boxes, they are not high end fashion but up to date and on trend with a slight twist. I know this has worked by how many customers come in or email me saying they were stopped in the street and asked where they got their jacket or dress and, of course, shoes from.”

What would you say makes a successful entrepreneur and what tips would you like to give to women in particular who are considering working for themselves?

“The short answer to that is for both men and women… be prepared to work hard! You have to have100% determination. Get good advice from accountants and business advisers and talk to friends who work for themselves.

Self-motivation is a must, as on many days you could be working on your own. Look into the company accounts of a similar business idea and, if you are paying rent or a mortgage on your own, make sure you have enough funds for at least 2-3 years to cover costs. Cash flow is key as your landlord, suppliers and the taxman come before you pay yourself.

A number of customers over the years have told me how fed up they feel with working for large companies; not being noticed, boss is a bully and commuting gets them down. They would love to get out and start their own business and often ask me what they should do.

Very few, however, are prepared to give up 25 days annual holiday and find working weekends unthinkable.

However, for me, the benefits outweigh the negatives, so give it a go and enjoy.”

You have made retail business flourish in an increasingly competitive marketplace where online sales are gaining market share every month.

How do you stay ahead of your competition?

Customer service and product knowledge are the most important things when working in the service industry, therefore I deliver customer satisfaction

at a personal level. It's also a lot easier without the constraints of working in a larger organisation.

Having my own business was my opportunity to develop my own personal style of retail experience focusing on independent labels and quality products, showcasing innovative designers such as Bitte Kai Rand and Ilse Jacobsen whose coats are so popular that Surbiton has the best dressed dog walkers and commuters!

I am online too and my website and Facebook page, which I run myself, can display stock within minutes of it arriving in store and I can have feedback straight away. Most local customers look at the website first, then come in, rather than buying online.

Over the last 12 years I have sent stock all around the world.”

darlingmagazine.co.uk | april – may 2015

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Where to get the looks ...

The Spa Boutique, Kingston upon Thames

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With regular maintenance you will extend the time you can keep your lashes. We recommend infills every two to three weeks to maintain them.

yelash extensions are a popular beauty service which transforms the eyes and make your natural lashes look thicker and longer!

Single synthetic eyelashes are applied to your own natural eyelash to achieve a beautiful, full, luscious and long set of lashes that are natural and you won't even know they are there! They are perfect for daily wear or for an active lifestyle ...And they feel just like your own!

Our offer for a full set is £60 (normal price £85) Half a set £45 (normal price £60) Infills £30 (normal price £45) www.thespaboutique.webs. com Tel: 020 8549 8103

Stone Hair Salon - Great Coffee - Great Vibes - Great Hair

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nternational session stylist, John Mullan, founded his luxury boutique salon on Old London Road in Kingston in 1994. John still works on fashion shoots and catwalks and his creations regularly feature on the covers of Vogue, Elle and the like.

We believe in the craft of hair dressing, putting our own angle on it and having fun with it too! We never take clients for granted and believe that our reputation is built on offering the best service consistently to every single client whilst representing value for money and

value for our knowledge. Discover this season's hair trends at Stone Hair. Adapted to suit every hair type and face shape. We make your hair work for you.

Ladies, it's time to learn about the Shag Cut. Long or short, clean or messy, works on everyone.

Gents - it's time for the undercut, a playful haircut that can be worn slick and refined or textured and ready to go.

Find us at -www.stone-hair. com- Tel: 0208 549 3227

Makeup artist & beauty expert, Hollie Graham

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akeup artist & beauty expert Hollie Graham knows that this season's 'in' trend is definitely all about the skin!

Whether it's for every day or The Big Day, illuminated and glowing skin is definitely a must this season. She will show you how to create and cater this look to your own personal

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style. Why not try using Bobbi Brown's new 'Illuminating Moisture Balm' with Red, Yellow & Green Pearl extracts to illuminate, Lychee to hydrate and caffiene to energise and reduce inflamation. This is a skin must-have! holliegraham_1@hotmail.com 07584 886 083

april – may 2015 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

photography by www.claire-simmons.com

... Your local hair and beauty guide Natural Facelift Massage (Facial Rejuvenation)

After

Before

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rom her practice in Southfields, Mary Dalgleish has been offering

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Natural Facelift Massage for 15 years. This unique treatment includes acupressure and techniques to release tension and habitual facial expressions. Mary then concentrates on one side of the face at a time with smoothing techniques to ‘iron out’ fine lines and wrinkles.

Deeper techniques are used to release restrictions in the dermis and lift the underlying facial muscles. The overall effect has been described as

a gym workout for the face but with deeply relaxing effects on the whole body. One happy client describes it as her ‘beauty sleep’ as she sleeps throughout the session, but wakes up looking and feeling younger!

Mary E Dalgleish Vice President FHT Holistic Therapy Council 07932735742 www.head2toemassage.co.uk

Krishna Hairstylist have come to me when they haven't found a salon that's really right for them or haven't been fully satisfied with the results. My colour treatments are as natural as possible, using avocado oil as a carrier, but still achieving great, rich and long lasting results whilst minimising the damage to your hair.

am an independent, mobile hairdresser with 35 years' experience, based in New Malden and started my career at Harrods where I worked for 10 years.

Offering a very personable and extremely convenient service at your home is really valued by my clients. Many of my clients are children and I am often recommended to families whose children feel more comfortable having their hair cut at home rather then at a hair salon.

I specialise in Indian bridal hair, makeup and outfits.

Email: krishy69@gmail.com Tel: 07766077173

Many of my long-standing clients

Francesca Louise - Semi Permanent Makeup Specialist

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ake up every day looking permanently beautiful with Francesca’s wonderful eyebrow, eye and lip treatments, created by a technique using a semi-permanent pigment to enhance your natural features.

Would you like to have perfectly shaped eyebrows with added colour and definition? Have you lost your natural eyebrows over time and are you fed up of constantly redrawing daily? Dream of having the appear-

ance of fuller lips with a colour of your choice? Do you want to define your eyes with delicate eyeliner to give thicker looking eyelashes and no need to reapply throughout the day?

This procedure is perfect for you.

UR Beautiful on 020 8247 0386 www.ur-beautiful.com Francesca is accredited with the Diploma of Excellence in Cosmetic Tattooing and based in Kingston.

Thorough, free consultations are given to help guide you and give you an understanding of all aspects of the procedure.

To book your FREE consultation contact Francesca at darlingmagazine.co.uk | april – may 2015

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How to skyrocket your CONFIDENCE Confidence – the secret to success

By Anne Williams

through in your mind what you'll do to make things go as well as possible. Good preparation is a great confidence booster!

Deal with negative thoughts – challenge your inner critic. Tell yourself: Who says I can't do this or this won't turn out well? Remind yourself of your strengths and achievements. List the things that will help you in the situation.

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ave you noticed how so often it isn't the cleverest or most talented people who seem to rise to the top; rather, it's the most confident? Even if you consider yourself to be fairly confident, there may be some areas you could be more successful in, if only you were more confident.

Public speaking, dealing with certain people and trying new things, might be examples.

Being more confident is all about overcoming limiting beliefs and negative thinking. Beliefs that we’re not good enough or don’t know enough, worrying about what others might think, fearing we'll make mistakes, imagining the worst will happen, can all be big stumbling blocks. Maybe you compare yourself to other people.

You think they're much more confident than you, but you don't

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realise that, underneath, they may feel just as unconfident. All this can lead to playing safe, avoiding risks and challenges, so you never get to find out how successful you could be.

Tips for improved confidence Learn effective relaxation – nervousness and tension go together.

Relaxation and confidence go together. Breathing calmly and relaxing your body really help you to do your best in any situation.

Confident posture – stand tall and steady, with your head up. The feeling of confidence will follow the posture.

Visualisation – mentally rehearse the situation where you want to be more confident. Imagine feeling relaxed and confident, and go

april – may 2015 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

Recognise that you’re unique, with a unique set of qualities, skills and experience that have value.

Don’t mind-read – so often people think that others are thinking more negatively about them than they actually are. In reality, they probably think you’re more confident than you feel.

Practise! Most importantly, confidence can be learned. The more you practise confidence, the more confident a person you'll become.

Don't let yourself be held back by believing you're not a naturally confident person - give it a go!

Anne Williams specialises in helping people with confidence and anxiety issues. www.transforming-health.co.uk

spirituality promotion

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INTERFAITH MINISTRY

Being YOU requires a soul connection

By Reverend Ingrid L. Scott

“Be yourself, everyone else is taken” by Oscar Wilde is one of my favourite rallying calls; to be all that I was created to be!

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grew up wanting to please my parents by being the kind of daughter that was expected and demanded of me, only to marry at the early age of 23 and then being the wife that I thought I should be.

It wasn’t until after the age of 40 when life really begins, as they say, that I actually started to think about who I was, who was the Me that was waiting to finally burst forth and shout loudly “this is who I am!”

So Newsflash – The Universe, The Divine, God, whatever name you like to attribute to the Something Greater that exists, requires each of us to show up in the way that is uniquely and individually ours. Not our parents, husband/partner or any other person’s version of what that should or shouldn’t be.

The Divine has a need for us to ‘sing our song as only we can sing it’. No-one should reach the end of their life wishing, thinking or feeling; what could have been if only I’d lived a little more daringly and been a little less ordinary.

Here’s the thing; it’s not too late!

Ingrid at the graduation of her friend, Rev José M. Román

Any time is a good time to be who you wish you woulda, coulda, shoulda been when you reach the end of your life.

So how about starting now with a little self enquiry; What would I do if I were not afraid to fail? Or be critiqued? Or be concerned with what people might say?

Why not join me for Rev Ingrid’s Sunday Soul Connection, Sundays at 10am where, from the comfort of your own home, you can join virtually, in a contemporary fellowship. Where we seek to expand and deepen our personal and spiritual development in order to live an

effective life.

Simply dial in from a landline 08444 737 133 Mobiles 87373, PIN 948236, and experience a great start to the week!

For more details or to listen to previous recordings go to: www.cbdifm.org

“I don’t want to get to the end of my life and find that I have just lived the length of it. I want to have lived the width of it as well.”

Diane Ackerman Blessings always!

darlingmagazine.co.uk | april – may 2015

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BEAUTIFUL HATS FOR ALL OCCASIONS COULD YOU HELP A CHILD WITH THEIR READING? CALL US TODAY!

Handmade by Sarah McAlister

Summer Hat Show Date 6 – 11 May 2015 Time 11.00 a.m. – 6.00 p.m.

Reading helper opportunities available now in Kingston

Beanstalk is a charity that trains and supports volunteers to work in primary schools

Location The Gallery, Lingfield Hall Lingfield Road Wimbledon Village, SW19 4QD Ready to wear and made to measure

with children aged 6-11 to help them become confident and literate.

www.beanstalkcharity.org.uk Tel: 0207 730 8259 Email: innerlondon@beanstalkcharity.org.uk Registered Charity Number 296454. Registered Office: 6 Middle Street, London EC1A 7JA

By appointment at: 36 Arthur Road, New Malden KT3 6LX Mobile: 07905 657 343

www.SarahMcAlisterHats.com

Women in politics – we are still only a small minority

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of community and family health services in Ealing and I had become increasingly frustrated and fed up at the reorganisation that took place in the health service, so I was happy when I was selected. I then lost the 1992 election but won in 1997.”

arling was invited to the House of Lords to meet Baroness Jenny Tonge of Kew. Jenny Tonge started her political career in 1981 as a councillor in Richmond. She was elected to Parliament in 1997 and held the Richmond Park seat until 2005.

During her Commons’ career she was Liberal Democrat spokesperson on International Development from 1997 to 2003 and then the spokesperson for children from 2003 to 2004. Jenny was made a life peer and member of the House of Lords in 2005.

You are a doctor by training and built an impressive career in the health service. Why did you decide to leave medicine for politics?

“I have always been a bit of a political animal. As a child I used to organise play elections and make flyers. But as a teen I was so inspired by Dr Schweizer who, as a pastor and a brilliant concert organist, gave up his career to qualify as a doctor in order to

Only 22% of the Commons’ seats, slightly up from the previous election of 19.5%, are held by women. What could we do to improve the situation?

travel to Congo as a medical missionary, that I decided to become a doctor too. When my children were young and I worked parttime I became active in PTAs and local activism in various issues.

To reduce lead in petrol was my very first public campaign. That led to me becoming involved in local politics. In 1990 a parliamentary seat for Richmond became vacant. That was at the time when I was in charge

“Many countries have gender quotas in place and that is one way to ensure more equal numbers. The Labour Party introduced quotas in the 1997 election making good progress and are still leading the way.

Women themselves, particularly young women coming into politics, feel that they need to win on their own merit rather than be helped by quotas. Britain is old fashioned and men have always helped each other so it is tougher for women.

Changes in our electoral system are needed too. Scotland and Wales have proportional representation and that has levelled out the differences a lot.”

darlingmagazine.co.uk | april – may 2015

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Gorgeous Original Gift Put the dress away but not the memories...

Artist and illustrator Lyndsay Russell will create a beautiful Paris-style fashion sketch of your wedding dress, shoes, bouquet and headdress – adding personal touches such as fabric swatches, the wedding date and the bride’s name.

If you're looking for a unique and thoughtful wedding gift these artworks are ideal.

They're also perfect for Christmas, Birthdays and of course Special Anniversaries.

From as little as £125.

Contact 0787 949 0487 | lyndsayrussell@blueyonder.co.uk www.weddingfashionsketches.com

THE FOREST BAILIFF JOIN ONE OF OUR SEWING WORKSHOPS IN 2015

36 Durham Road, London. SW 20 0TW 020 8947 5115 | www.forestbai l i ff.c o.uk

Kingston a borough full of SUPERHE ROES ... and Clare Jefferies from “Home Instead” knows a few

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t takes a certain type of person who has a vocation in life to want to provide care and support to someone in need.

At local care company Home Instead, they describe that calling as possessing 'super powers' and are constantly on the lookout for Superheroes!

Clare Jefferies, owner of Home Instead, explains; "We have a wonderful team of people of all ages, experiences and diverseness, ranging from 18-73 years old and every one of them possesses those superhuman qualities. They really want to make a difference to our clients’ lives. Our team has a piano teacher, hospice helpers, charity shop volunteers, a makeup artist, a dinner lady, wives, mothers, grandmothers and a few lovely male caregivers too. Each and every one of them is unique and special, with their own lives outside of Home Instead - which we are ever mindful of. We really care about our caregivers and do our best to match them to suit the clients they’ll be looking after, taking into account their individualism, life experiences and characters. We train them, talk to them, listen to them, sympathise, empathise and encourage them.

We give them time to build a relationship and trust with their clients.

We encourage diverseness in our caregivers because each and every one one of our clients has their

very own support needs. Our clients have had amazing lives.

We regularly hear the stories they have shared with our caregivers.

We have an oil tycoon, teachers, dancers, a professional football

It definitely should not be in the unskilled section at the job centre, or only for people who can't get work anywhere else. It takes a very special type of person, with a very special skill to share their

“It takes a certain type of person who has a vocation in life to want to provide care and support to someone in need.” player as well as a former spy who dealt with counter espionage during the Cold War. We never forget that, even though they are now less able or rather forgetful, they still are that special wonderful person who has had a full and varied life.

Not everyone possesses Superhero powers and care giving is not for everyone and nor should it be.

heart, offer trust, support and dedication to those who need it.

We can teach people how to provide care, but we can't teach people to care.... that comes from within!! So next time you are chatting to someone who you know has an imaginary cape and mask, please send them our way and we, in turn will treat them like Superheroes.

darlingmagazine.co.uk | april – may 2015

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local art

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A chance to get up close and personal with LOCAL ARTISTS

Kingston Artists’ Open Studios, KAOS, opens its doors again

by Cressida Borrett, KAOS

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owards the end of May you may spot orange signs on lampposts across Kingston advertising “Open Studios”.

You would be forgiven for assuming it is something to do with promoting a new housing development, but read the small print and you will see that in fact it’s a lot more interesting than that.

For the past five years Kingston has joined towns and cities all over the country, in holding annual artists' open days. This is where the public are invited into our homes and studios to see what us artists and makers get up to. It’s an opportunity to look at art, meet the person behind it and find out more about how it’s done. Learn about how it can take three weeks to make a jug, with three kiln firings, up to 1200°C, or why an editioned art print is different to one you may find on the high street. From the artist’s point of view it is an invaluable opportunity to talk to our customers and colleagues in a relaxed environment - many of us mainly sell though art galleries, so don’t often meet our customers and hear the story behind why they liked our work. I don’t know about the other artists, but this feedback always

leaves me inspired, buzzing with ideas and eager to make more.

This year KAOS will be publishing a trail map, taking the public from studio to studio across the town. If one doesn’t come through your door, you can find it from mid-May at www. kingstonartistsopen-studios. co.uk. Most venues have a handful of artists, each with contrastingly individual styles, so there’s sure to be something for everyone.

In previous years we have had visitors from all over Surrey – where the event is more established - and from other parts of London, as well as local people. Many of them make a day of it using the trail map to plan a route and stopping for refreshments on their way around.

There is no obligation to buy anything, but if you do find something you like, you’ll discover prices that are considerably lower than in art galleries, and often there will be seconds or experimental work at bargain prices. You’ll find that the momentary awkwardness of knocking on a stranger's door and asking to come in and look at their work well worth it when you come across that perfect piece of art to compliment your home, at a lower-than-expected price. And, with over fifty artists taking part, you never know what that might be.

darlingmagazine.co.uk | april – may 2015

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charity

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We are going to Chelsea!

Momentum children’s charity to exhibit at RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2015

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omentum children’s charity, based in Kingston upon Thames, is thrilled to have a dedicated Momentum Garden in the Great Pavilion at the prestigious RHS Chelsea Flower Show this May. Gardens and outside spaces have always featured greatly in Momentum’s work, with the charity having designed and constructed hospital play areas, gardens and even a vegetable garden.

In conjunction with Tale Valley Nursery, the Momentum Garden at Chelsea, sponsored by Chartridge Developments plc, will feature a beautiful willow sculpture representing a Momentum family sitting on a bench. The sculpture will be auctioned at a later date.

Momentum’s Director, Bianca Effemey said: “Having a very sick child is one of the most unimaginably hard things that a parent will ever have to go through.

Outside spaces and gardens can provide the respite that families need to escape the daily, clinical hospital environment. It means a great deal to us to be showing our own peaceful Momentum Garden at Chelsea this year.”

Gold Medal Award winners Chris and Lorraine Birchall, of Tale Valley Nursery in Devon, and renowned willow sculptor Victoria Westaway have kindly offered their horticultural knowledge and design expertise to represent the journey taken by Momentum families.

Lesley Farrer, Commercial Director at Chartridge Developments plc, said: “We are very excited to have the opportunity to support Momentum with the RHS garden. Primarily we know how supportive the charity is of children and their families at a time that is difficult beyond comprehension, but also we know that gardens are important places for peace and contemplation so the combination of the two is irresistible.”

Momentum receives no government funding so relies entirely on the support of the public and funds raised through its charity work. Momentum supports families of children with cancer in SW London and Surrey both during and after treatment with its Family Support Programme. In addition to this, the charity aims to enhance the healing environment in hospitals where children are undergoing treatment by carrying out refurbishment and providing new facilities. Momentum also owns two holiday homes in the New Forest where it can send families for much-needed breaks.

To find out more about the charity visit:

www.moment-um.org

darlingmagazine.co.uk | april – may 2015

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charity

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Building new friendships in the community because everyone deserves a friend...

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t’s never too late in life to make new friends – this is something Joan, aged 91, and Nicole 42, agree on. Joan and Nicole were introduced to each other just under a year ago through the Alfriston Outreach Volunteer Befriending Service, and Nicole (a Volunteer Befriender) has been a regular visitor to Joan ever since.

Last year, Joan was living a full and independent life, until a bad fall changed everything. After recovering in hospital, her reduced mobility stopped her being able to go out and she received only brief visits each day from carers. Joan missed the daily contact with people and quickly felt isolated and lonely. Luckily, the warden at Joan’s block of flats told her about Alfriston’s Befriending Service and referred her.

Talking about her new friendship Joan says “It’s been great – it really has. When I first met Nicole I thought ‘she’s a young girl, what will we talk about?’ but time flies when we’re chatting. When Nicole puts on her coat to leave, I can’t believe it’s time for her to go! The age difference is not important. We chat about all sorts of things, from old times to telly programmes or what’s going on in the news.”

Nicole adds “When I first became a Volunteer Befriender I felt shy and was worried there would be silences and gaps in the conversation. But none of that happens with Joan – we have so much to talk about every time I see her and we both look forward to our visits together. Also, the training I received from Alfriston gave me the confidence to be a volunteer and the team there are always on hand for support if I need it.”

So why volunteer? Nicole says: “I wanted to do something for my community. Being a Befriender is perfect because it is a much needed service, and it also fits in with looking after my two children and my parttime job. And I’ve made a new friend!”

The Alfriston Outreach Volunteer Befriending Service was set up three years ago to provide a free service to older people living in the Borough of Kingston who were experiencing loneliness or isolation. All Volunteer Befrienders are DBS checked and receive training and ongoing support from the coordinators.

If you know an older person who would benefit from regular companionship, or would like to become a Volunteer Befriender, please call us at the Alfriston Outreach Volunteer Befriending Service on 020 8399 4289, or send us an email: alfriston_day@yahoo.co.uk.

Ask for Di, Lisa or Tina.

darlingmagazine.co.uk | april – may 2015

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Cook's corner Healthy vegetarian recipes low in calories, high in flavour Warm millet salad & avocado stuffed with hummus 4 servings

• • • • • • • • • •

Ingredients: • 200g warm cooked millet • 1 diced red pepper • 1 diced yellow pepper • 1 avocado • 1 grated carrot • 100g finely sliced mange tout beans • 3 sprigs of mint shredded • 3 sprigs of basil shredded • 3 sprigs of flat parsley shredded

Millet is a gluten free nutty grain that can be cooked or steamed to provide a perfect nutritious base to salads & stews. Its alkalinity and low allergenic properties ensure it is soothing for the digestive system during cleansing and beyond. It’s nutty in flavour and a very versatile grain to prepare with a protein content of 15% and is also high in B6 & Niacin.

2 tbsp of olive oil juice of one lemon 2 cloves of crushed garlic 2 tbsp organic olive oil 200g cooked/canned chickpeas 2 cloves of crushed garlic 1 tsp roasted cumin seeds ground 1 tsp roasted coriander seeds, ground 100ml organic tahini (optional) 4 tbsp veg stock

Spring Booster GINGER has long been used around the world for its many natural and amazing health benefits. Everybody's favourite ‘Anti’ - antibiotic, antiseptic, and antihistamine to name a few.

Using a juicer, treat yourself and your family to a GINGER SHOT a day.

One portion: Half large APPLE or one small one.

5cm chunk of GINGER more if you're brave!

Put everything in your machine and 'down' in one, or add it to your daily juice.

Green veg super soup with homemade pesto

Please note this is the basic recipe. You can add in ANY extra green veg that you fancy. Be creative and seasonal!

Ingredients: • 1 courgette cut in half lengthways and sliced into semi-circles • 1 leek cut in half lengthways and sliced into semi-circles • 1 broccoli de-stemmed and cut into florets • 200 g green beans, topped and tailed and cut in half • 3 handfuls of baby spinach leaves • 1 bunch of asparagus – trimmed and cut in half • 1 cup of peas • 1 onion chopped small • 2 cloves garlic chopped small • 1 veg stock cube Method: Fry the garlic and onion until soft, add in all the veg EXCEPT the peas, spinach and asparagus and cover with water, bung in the stock cube. Let simmer for 20 mins. Add in the asparagus and peas and simmer for 5 more minutes. Add in the spinach and season to taste. Cover for 10 minutes before serving with a dollop of pesto.

For the pesto: · 1 pack or a big bunch of fresh basil · 1/2 pack of pine nuts · 2 cloves garlic · 1 cup of olive oil (have more available in case..) · pinch of salt to taste Blend all the above in a blender until paste-like, add more olive oil as necessary to get the nice pesto consistency. Gobble it up with spelt bread, add on salads and to soups.

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april – may 2015 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

Method: • To cook the millet, boil the stock and add the grain, simmer for 30mins or until all the water is absorbed. Then set aside, fluff with a fork & steam covered for a further 10mins.

• To prepare the salad, simply mix in all the other chopped ingredients & fluff with fork.

• Drain and rinse the chickpeas, place in a food processor with the olive oil, lemon juice, crushed garlic, toasted seeds, tahini & veg stock. Whizz together until you reach a creamy whipped texture.

Season with gomashio (sesame salt), black pepper and lemon juice to taste.

Hot Toddy Dissolve one tsp honey in hot water.

Add juice of half or whole lemon.

(Half an Unwaxed lemon can be added to basic recipe above. Most of the goodness is in the pith).

Add a portion of GINGER SHOT and top up with hot water....Yum. TIP - Make a big batch and freeze in portions (good for 2 weeks).

Patricia Campbell-Parker www.vitalwellbeing.net

www.balancedwellness.co.uk

health and wellbeing promotion

........................................

Spring is a perfect time for a CLEANSE Darling meets up with Chris James, local yoga master and health & wellbeing expert

C

hris is responsible for honing some of the most sought after celebrity bodies, including Millie Mackintosh, Rosie Fortescue and Melissa Odabash, known as the ‘Ferrari of Swimwear’.

What have you been up to since we last spoke with you?

I have been focusing on the launch of my health, beauty and wellness range bringing it close to you to Wholefoods in Richmond and UR Beautiful in Kingston. I have also been making the final arrangements to my Retreat at the Ananda in Rishikesh, India, in April and also finalising my new "Mind Body Cleanse" weekend break at Champneys Forest Mere in June! (www.champneys.com/ spa-resorts/spa-resort-breaks/ specialist-retreats/fitness/

yoga/2-night-mind-bodycleanse-with-chris-james)

Busy boy! What do you mean by Mind Body Cleanse?

Mind Body Cleanse is my teaching technique – it’s a complete wellness system, it’s more than just yoga.

a gentle, helping hand. I do three, sometimes four, structured cleanses a year and use my own formulations. I called this system “12Days” and it is very popular with my celebrity clients. They love what it does for the mind and body, from simple physical toning to increased energy and mental lucidity.

Mind – Given the correct internal environment, the body has a phenomenal capacity for selfhealing. This actually starts with a well functioning digestive system. Get your digestion in good shape and all the other systems in your body can restore, cleanse, heal and renew - a healthy gut leads to a long life!

Body – means engaging in specialist Mind Body Cleanse body work, breath work, visualisation & meditation practices that encourage lymph drainage, increase blood flow, and stimulate digestion & peristalsis. All of this is great at sculpting the body and mind.

Cleanse – With the shift in season, the human body needs

Sounds fantastic! You’ve done all this after your neck injury in 2000 – what happened?

I broke and dislocated three vertebras in my neck when I was randomly assaulted in a greengrocers in Green Lanes, north London, and was very lucky to survive. I attribute my recovery to the intense yoga practice that I had established in India. I used the techniques that I had mastered to bring the intelligence back into my body. The doctors and nurses could not believe that I recovered so quickly! www.chrisjamescleanse.com

darlingmagazine.co.uk | feb – march 2015 21

health and wellbeing promotion

........................................

Do you know about kinesiology?

“Becoming an alternative health therapist has completely transformed my health and my family’s health has improved too!” says Tracey Mason.

Using her knowledge in kinesiology, Tracey is also transforming the health of her clients in her clinic in Thames Ditton.

But what is Kinesiology? She explains; “It is a very unobtrusive, safe, complementary therapy. Kinesiology looks at the whole person and not just the symptoms. Using gentle muscle testing, I can find imbalances in the body and what the body needs to bring it back into balance. By using lymphatic massage, nutritional advice, acupres-

MRCS (ENG), MRCS (ED), MD (PLAST.), EBOPRAS, FÄ (PLAST.) GER

Tel: 07881 808 974 mgrob@mg-plasticsurgery.com www.mg-plasticsurgery.com

sure points and emotional support, my clients leave the clinic feeling very different from when they walked in. This is what makes kinesiology so unique and special.”

Tracey also runs free health and nutrition courses from her home in Thames Ditton.

by Tracey Mason

She lectures for The Academy of Systematic Kinesiology in London and is now running the Foundation Course in Kinesiology in Thames Ditton. The next one will be starting in September.

For anyone who is interested in their health, on mentioning Darling Magazine, Tracey is offering a free one-to-one health consultation (usually costing £45).

Tracey can be contacted via email: traceymason@ balancedwellness.co.uk or through her website www.balancedwellness.co.uk/tracey

Discover joy, vitality and inner peace “Raise Your Vibration” With Gaia Healing

by Nicola Swan at Kingston Natural Health Centre Gaia Healing evolved from Reiki and offers powerful energies for deep physical, emotional and mental release.

Following your Gaia Treatment you will:

Tel: 07881 808 974

D

r Grob has a reputation for the finest results possible in cosmetic surgery, achieved by her understanding of your uniquely individual needs and expectations. She is well known for her personalised care to each and every patient. Every operation is a personal journey, and she will accompany you and make sure that you feel safe and comfortable every step of the way.

Dr Grob practices at the BMI Coombe Wing at Kingston Hospital, the Mount Alvernia Hospital in Guildford and the Runnymeade Hospital in Chertsey.

For further information and to book a consultation go to:

www.mg-plasticsurgery.com

• Feel deeply rested • Have less pain • Feel balanced and energised • Cope better with life’s ups and downs Just one treatment brings you deep relaxation and a profound sense of wellbeing. Have a course of treatments and discover more joy, vitality and inner peace.

Regular treatments will raise you to a higher state of consciousness. Let Go, Live Lightly and Shine!

Nicola Swan is a registered teacher of Gaia (beyond Reiki) and is fully trained in Eternal Light Healing.

Call Nicola now for an appointment or queries.

Tel: 07753 562043 email: gaiahealingkingston@gmail.com www.kingstonnaturalhealthcentre.com/therapists

health and wellbeing promotion

........................................

by Elisabeth Rae

What an amazing feeling to be eczema free!

One patient tells about her experience after just two Gaia healing sessions

O

ne of my luckiest days is when I met Nicola after the school drop-off and she kindly offered to help me with the eczema on my eyes.

I've been suffering from very bad eczema on my eyelids and hands for two years. My eyes were very itchy, swollen, raw and inflamed. They were also extremely sensitive to daylight – I had to wear sunglasses even in my house.

I’d seen several specialists, including a nutritionist and consultants here and back home in France. The only medical solution seemed to be steroid creams but their damaging effects meant they couldn’t be used long term.

In any case I wanted to address the cause, not just the symptoms.

When I arrived at Nicola's place, we talked in detail about my problem. She listened carefully, with empathy. Then, in her front room, I laid on her healing couch. The warm, quiet atmosphere mixed with the sounds of the crackling fire and soft music made me feel instantly relaxed.

hadn’t expected results this quickly!

I had my second Gaia experience the following day and that was totally different: my mind became blurred and filled with lots of images which vanished suddenly. The connection was definitely deeper.

Afterwards, I was finally able to take off my sunglasses indoors. My eyes were much less swollen and the eczema started to disappear from my hands as well.

Gaia has made me so much better: I feel happier, have more energy – like being cleansed from the inside.

Nicola has an amazing energy and, if you want to feel better, I recommend you try her Gaia healing. It worked for me!

One session costs £45. Four or five sessions £40 and six or more £35 per session.

To contact Gaia Healer Nicola Swan: email: gaiahealingkingston@gmail.com call: 07753 562043 www.kingstonnaturalhealthcentre.com/therapists

The Gaia session lasted about one hour but felt like 20 minutes. Nicola placed her hands around my head and I began to drift off. She later moved to my upper body, eventually finishing at my toes.

Through the pressure of her fingers I could feel a sensation of a gentle electricity flow.

At the end, while sitting on the couch I felt physically relieved of a weight, as if I just let go a huge backpack. I came home floating, feeling amazingly relaxed. My eyes and my hands were much better. I darlingmagazine.co.uk | april – may 2015

23

legal promotion – promo legal

.....................

TEN TIPS TO SAVE INHERITANCE TAX Inheritance Tax (IHT) is perhaps the least popular of taxes. However, with the right planning, the tax burden can be reduced or even avoided completely. Hart Brown set out their top ten tips on how to save IHT.

Inheritance Tax – The Basics Every estate is allowed to gift a sum of money without paying IHT, known as the ‘nil rate band’.

This is currently £325,000 and is to stay the same until 5 April 2019 at least. Anything over the nil rate band that does not qualify for an exemption or relief is subject to IHT at 40%.

Tip 1 Review your will and avoid IHT with a transferable nil rate band A surviving spouse or civil partner who inherited their partner’s estate can claim an increase of up to 100% of their nil rate band – a potential tax saving of £130,000 at current rates.

Tip 2 Save a six figure sum with a discretionary will trust Married couples or those in civil partnerships can

24

april – may 2015 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

use trusts to safeguard the interests of children from an earlier marriage and/or to gain extra IHT advantages where their spouse has been previously widowed. Unmarried couples can use trusts to avoid IHT being charged on the same assets on each of their deaths.

Tip 3 Set up a regular, ongoing arrangement to gift excess income and use your allowances If a person has income surplus to their needs, they can gift that excess income free of IHT. There is also an allowance of £3,000 per year that a person can gift from capital and this will be immediately outside of their estate, plus there are some other gift exemptions. Giving with ‘warm hands’ can save IHT even if you exceed the limits as any growth on the amount gifted will usually be outside of your estate and so will the gift itself if you survive for seven years.

Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (50788) Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

Brian Martin

Tip 4 Use a Discounted Gift Trust (DGT) to gift capital, reduce IHT and retain an income A DGT is suitable where an income is required but the capital is not. A discount may be applied which is immediately free of IHT, and there are further savings depending on surviving for seven years.

Tip 5 Business property and certain shares are exempt from IHT Though not suitable for everyone, certain investments in trading companies (e.g. certain AIM shares or Enterprise Investment Schemes), woodland and agricultural property enjoy government tax breaks exempting them from IHT (conditions apply).

Tip 6 Pay capital into a trust as an interest free loan This type of arrangement can be very useful where a client is unsure of their future capital needs. The loan may be repaid by regular or ad hoc instalments (providing an income or emergency fund) or be repayable on death. A saving is made on

any capital growth or interest earned, which stays within the trust.

Tip 7 Use non-pension assets to supplement your retirement income and keep your pension pot intact Recently announced changes to the taxation of pension death benefits have increased the need to take a planned approach. By leaving a greater proportion of assets in a pension fund and drawing on other assets to supplement your income there is potential to substantially reduce inheritance tax.

Tip 8 Review Spousal Bypass Trusts for Pensions These arrangements were popular to avoid tax where pension fund death benefits were intended primarily for a spouse or civil partner. With the changes to the pension death benefit rules coming into play it will often be more tax-efficient (and cheaper) for a spouse or civil partner to take flexible benefits from the pension and leave any excess in the pension fund for future generations.

Tip 9 Gift to charities or set up your own charitable trust

Chris Thurlow

Gifts to charities are generally exempt from IHT. Alternatively, you could set up your own charitable trust which would also be exempt from IHT. Such gifts can also reduce the tax paid on the balance of your estate. If you give 10% of your net estate to charity, you can also benefit from a reduced IHT rate of 36%.

Tip 10 Pass on your inheritance with a Deed of Variation If you want to pass on a received inheritance to your family or charity, it is possible to enter into a Deed of Variation within 2 years of the death. This will remove the inheritance from your estate for IHT purposes.

Before taking any steps mentioned in this article, you should take professional advice.

The options mentioned are based on the current tax rules which may be subject to change.

For further information contact Chris Thurlow or Brian Martin on 020 8947 8171 hartbrown.co.uk

darlingmagazine.co.uk | feb – march 2015 25

ON THEscene SCENEpeople out and about in and around Kingston On the .......................................

The Really Helpful Club invited its members to women's cycling event at Pearsons Cycles

L-R: Racheal Lavelle, Sarah Austin, Kim Williams, Jane Pirrie and Penny Grace

L-R: Bronwyn Croall, Kiran Reddy, Guy Pearson from Pearson Cycles and Dominique Hainebach

Woodcote House School drinks in Wimbledon

L-R: Louise Furber, Tracey Hanh-James, hostess; Henry Knight, Headmaster of Woodcote House School and Esther Jolker, joint hostess

L-R: Sarah Castledine, Edward Lyddon, Catherine Miholich, Esther Jolker and Andrew Monk, Deputy Headmaster of Woodcote House

Local Charity champions invited to10 Downing Street

German wine tasting evening at Stein's Kingston

L-R: Debbie Teasdale, Bele Weiss, owner of Stein's and Claus Burmeister from Heitlinger and Burg Ravensburg winery

L-R: James Berry, Conservative Party; Elizabeth Meatyard, founder of the Kingston Hospital dining companions scheme; Samantha Cameron and Elaine Miller, Love Kingston

Love Kington Day: fundraising around Kingston on Valentine's Day

L-R: g, Young Lilies, Valveni Walwyn, Liu Yan; David Leach and Will Stevens, Kingston Round Table and Natalie Holbert, Sandown Park Race Course

L-R: Ann Brown, Isabel Chant, Charlotte Duff and Amy Jones helping at the Momentum stand

L-R: Artists Nataliya Zozulya and Annie Leach sitting pretty on the Seriously Sofas Love Seat at the Old Post Office

Mia Jones, Roxanne and Robyn Gupta doing their bit for Momentum children's charity

L-R: Sandra Berry, Annie Tailon and Frances White - Kingston artists' exhibition at the Old Post Office

L-R: Deputy Mayor, Cllr. Cathy Roberts with Jamil Manoga and Mr Nasim Jamal presenting a cheque from the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association to Elaine Miller from Love Kingston

Romeo & Juliet at Rose Theatre Kingston - press night

L-R: Phil Hetherington, Development Director of Creative Youth, Trish Heaherington and Aniela Zaba, Artistic Diretor of Creative Youth

Robert O'Dowd, Chief Executive of Rose Theatre

L-R: Mayoress of Kingston, Madeleine Smith and Cllr Julie Pickering, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Health and Voluntary Services

The Really Helpful Club cyclists met at Absolute Abode

Chris James Mind Body at UR Beautiful in Kingston

L-R: Chris Beales from Bella Velo led the ride, Jen Craven, Rachel Hyatt, Bronwen Croall, Rachael Bayfield, Dominique Hainebach, Sarah Austin ad Fiona

L-R: Chris and Lisa Westover with Chris James holding a Darling magazine

Business Biscotti Twickenham group meet up at the Marriott Hotel Twickenham

L-R: Lisa Woodward, Icing Consulting; Celia Rizothanasi, Green Heron Square; Robert Holmes, Vinegar Creative and Sue Reeves, Founder of Business Biscotti

L-R: Twickenham Business Biscotti Ambassadors: Robert Holmes, Celia Rizothanasi, Raghu Sharma and David Winn

Athena Networking evening in aid of The Victoria Foundation; at the fabulous Stein's in Kingston

L-R: Nikki Williams, Jumblebee; Lucy Davies, The Victoria Foundation and Lesley Vaughan, Dolphin Coast Admin Services

L-R: Charmaine Mace, Property Cycle; Sally Higgins, The Victoria Foundation and Sara Wilcox, Pathways Through Dementia

L-R: Mike Parker, Mike Parker General Builders; Patricia Campbell-Parker, Vital Wellbeing,; Koo Anand, Coco Hair & Beauty and Bele Weiss, owner of Stein's

Kingston Arts' 'Meet the Artists' at Court Farm Cafe

L-R: Shanthini Shanmugaguru, Hugh and Yvonne Fowler and Terence Arpino

The Wealthy Woman: A Man Is Not A Financial Plan event at Hobbs in Kingston

L-R: Emma Bryan and Eleanor from Art 4' 4 (Catherine from Rabbit Illustrations , 3rd Art 4'4 member, is missing from the picture) with Sara May, also an artist

L-R: Catriona Riddell, Mary Waring event host, Wealth for Women and Renata Dzilinsk

L-R: Emma Harvey, Julia Russell and Emma Turner L-R: Mandy Spring, Esther Sweetman and Rhiannon Ford

thames fireplace limited 242 Kingston Road New Malden Surrey KT3 3RN Tel: 020 8336 5999 Mob:07951 777674 web: www.thamesfireplace.co.uk

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A new ‘Aura’ is sweeping through Raynes Park this Spring!

Kirsty McMorron’s emporium inspires

W

ith longer days and more sunlight, it’s time to slowly welcome spring. For many, the warmer seasons invite a sense of relaxation – of vacations, of longer days spent outdoors and more time socialising with loved ones.

At absolute abode, one of the ways we are celebrating the change of season is by embracing the spring trend story, ‘Aura’. Aura celebrates the ethereal and hazy, the soft hues of dreams and the concept of escapism. If you have been into absolute abode recently, you will have seen our beautiful new range of products in keeping with the soft new colour palette for spring. From our array of candles by the Danish brand, Ester & Erik, that capture the essence of Aura with their soft colour palette of dusty pink, lavender, pearlescent white and minty green, through to new homewares such as boho cushions & textiles., we are certainly embracing the new season!

Springtime also signifies change and growth. This is a

wonderful time to give your home a new burst of energy by working alongside one of our interior designers to help you to style or re-design your space. We offer an array of services including paint specification, styling, spatial planning, bespoke window treatments and joinery designs and specification of furniture and accessories.

And, just in time for spring, we have also recently launched our ‘Afternoon Tea’. Our stylish and decadent assortment of sandwiches, scones and cakes is sure to delight you, especially alongside a glass of bubbly! We serve our Afternoon Tea every day from 12 noon in our café by reservation taken in advance by calling 020 8090 3211.

We look forward to welcoming you at absolute abode – design café and emporium, this Spring. Your ‘home from home’ in Raynes Park. absolute abode 76-78 Coombe Lane Raynes Park SW20 0AX www.absoluteabode.com 0208 090 3212 darlingmagazine.co.uk | april-may 2015

35

darlingmagazine.co.uk | feb – march 2015 31

Design, Supply & Installation

by The Bathroom Specialists.

0208 335 6821 49 Fleece Road, Long Ditton, KT6 5JR www.bathroomeleven.co.uk

building promotion

Change your lifestyle, go down under

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With every square foot of London living space at a premium, why relocate when you can extend underground

P • • • • • • •

aul Bryan can help you turn your house upside down.

Whether it’s a:

larger, entertaining space you need a playroom for all your children’s toys and a usable area for their friends to play in a cinema room an office to work from home in maybe an annex for your nanny to have her own facilities or even a gym/sauna/plunge pool to come home and unwind after a hard day’s work or a cool cellar to store your prize wines

Imagine another floor in your house! If these tick any boxes then going down is the way forward.

We can take you through the whole planning and design process, excavation through to construction of the shell and waterproofing all the way through to fit-out and completion. We offer a complete basement conversion service.

Our architects will design your additional space

helping you to achieve what works for you and your family's needs. Structural engineers will calculate the support structure and loadings ensuring that the construction will be secure and sound and our experienced workforce will deliver what will be an amazing new area. A life changing experience to the way you currently live!

If your concern is dark, dingy living space, don’t be fooled, light wells will allow natural light into both the front and the back of your basement, with open able windows and doors for air flow.

Why don’t you join the rage and let’s go down together?

haveconstruction.org.uk T: 07880 546063

darlingmagazine.co.uk | april-may 2015 darlingmagazine.co.uk | april – may 2015

37 33

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Meet Andrew Jones. Along with his wife Ruth, he runs Seriously Sofas of Kingston – home to some of the most beautifully designed bespoke and customised sofas, sofa-beds, corner units, chairs and accessories in the UK. In our showroom you’ll find quality products at affordable prices. And even better they can be customised to meet the exact requirements of your home or new extension. So why not pop in and discover a sofa or sofa bed to suit your personality as well as your space... a real focus on choice, quality and flexibility… and some of the most knowledgeable advice this side of the River Thames. We look forward to meeting you.

Please visit us online at

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Do you have a great business idea

25/08/2013 19:54

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gardening column

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SIZE does matter T

here are literally hundreds of thousands of different plants of different sizes and shapes and colours for a garden to choose from but, ironically, to plant up a little garden takes more than a little thought.

If you have a big garden with plenty of space, then choosing plants is easy peasy – and when each and every one is fully grown, there will still be plenty of space.

The same is not true, alas, for the small garden.

Anyone who knows me will agree that my front garden has been a bit of a challenge. When we bought our house, the front south-facing site was a sea of crazy paving – save for two narrow strips carved out on either side of what was to be the front path, and a single (and rather stupid looking) square hole in front of the bay window.

With all that solid concrete around, can you imagine how hot

Euphorbia wulfenii

it all got in the height of summer.

I wanted a lawn, and I also wanted this tiny garden to be full of colour and texture and be interesting to look at throughout the year.

Also, I didn’t want to have to keep removing plant debris at the end of each season. That cut out all the pansies, busy lizzies, petunias, geraniums and all those other summer bedding plants sold by the lorry load in garden centres.

What I always recommend in my gardening master-classes is that the plant label is information that is ignored at your peril. You will always be given the height and spread of a plant and, if you are lucky, you will be given planting distances – the space you should allow between one plant and another so that it will grow obediently into the space provided.

I ended up choosing Potentilla fruticosa, Spiraea ‘Little Princess’, Convolvulus cneorum, Callicarpa bodinieri, Ceratostigma wilmottianum, Euphorbia wulfenii, various penstemons, Lavandula ‘Hidcote’ and some ground cover roses.

There was also an under-planting of miniature spring bulbs which helped to add sparkle early in the year.

Apart from the grass, this garden virtually looks after itself – job done!

Valerie Munro is a qualified horticulturist. As Auntie Planty she offers gardening masterclasses in your own garden. www.auntieplanty.co.uk © 2015 Valerie McBride-Munro

darlingmagazine.co.uk | april – may 2015

39

diary

.......

What's on?

Time To Talk - Jacqueline Wilson, hosted by Viv Groskop Tue 7th April, 3pm The popular children's author, and creator of characters such as Tracy Beaker and Hetty Feather, joins us to talk about her life and work.

Rose Theatre Kingston www.rosetheatrekingston.org The Absence of War Tue 14th - Sat 25th April, 7:30pm Rose Theatre Kingston, Headlong and Sheffield Theatres present a vigorous new production of Academy Award nominated writer David Hare's funny, stinging, political drama, on a timely national tour during the build-up to the 2015 General Election.

Rose Theatre Kingston www.rosetheatrekingston.org Debate in run up to 2015 General Election Tue 14th April, 7pm Coombe Boys' School, College Gardens, Blakes Lane, New Malden Rt. Hon. Edward Davey MP, LD James Berry, CON Lee Godfrey, LAB Clare Keogh, GRN UKIP Parliamentary Candidate £2.50 per ticket (adult), children free (must be accompanied by adult), OAP/ Disabled £1.50 (disabled also get one free carer) In aid of Love Kingston For more details, call Coombe Monthly Box Office on 02030200037 www.kingstonqt.info Free Photography & Fine Art Exhibition Charity Gala night- exhibition, music, refreshments Tue 14th April, 7-9pm At The cornerHOUSE Community Arts Centre, 116 Douglas Rd, Surbiton African Vision Malawi, a local based charity (formerly known as The Landirani Trust), will celebrate their 10th anniversary of working in Malawi. They support a rural area of approx.45,000

40

people including 3000 orphan & vulnerable people.

Free entry and a free drink, film showing & music.

In aid of African Vision Malawi For more details, call Lorraine Mole on 020 8287 8169 www.africanvision.org.uk Beer Festival Fri 17th, 6-10pm and Sat 18th April, 12-4pm and 6-10pm At 1st Hook Scout HQ , Verona Drive, Surbiton This is the 6th year of the Hook Beer Fest featuring 40 ales and 12 ciders.

Food available at all sessions (kindly sponsored by the William Bourne Public House) Live Music at each session Cost: Entry £5 including commemorative glass In aid of Royal Star and Garter For more details, call Fergus Lang on 07867505410 www.hookbeerfest.org.uk Surbiton Farmers’ Market Sat 9am-1pm, monthly 18th April and 16th May On Maple Road, Surbiton KT6 4AW www.surbitonfarmersmarket.co.uk Surbiton Food Festival From 2nd to 17th May Some of the festival highlights include: Sun 3rd May – Seething Freshwater Sardine Festival Sat/Sun 9th & 10th May -The Surbiton Village Food Fete Sat 16th May – Surbiton Farmers Market and the Surbiton Community Sports Day For a full list of events visit www.surbitonfoodfestival.org New Malden Farmers’ Market First Saturday of every month Sat 2nd May and 6th June, 9am- 2pm Fountain Pub car park in Burlington Road, New Malden www.nmfarmersmarket.co.uk

april – may 2015 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

Big Band Night Sat 9th May, 7:30pm At Imber Court, Ember Road, East Molesey Come and dance the night away or enjoy the Big Band sounds of Basie, Ellington, Miller and others with vocalist Lucy Moon.

Finger buffet and licensed bar.

Cost: £25 In aid of Princess Alice Hospice For more details, call Louise Cobb / Catriona Head on 0208 398 6468 / 01372 811073 www.pah.org.uk/pa-event/bill-geldards-kingswood-big-band/ Time To Talk - Lynda La Plante, hosted by Viv Groskop Thu 14th May, 6pm International best-selling crime writer, Lynda La Plante, joins us for a fascinating insight into her work, which includes Prime Suspect, Trial and Retribution and Beyond Suspicion.

Rose Theatre Kingston www.rosetheatrekingston.org Scouts Summer Fair Sat 6th June, 11:30am-3:30pm At Plough Green, On the Green outside the Plough Harvester, Worcester Park A traditional summer fair on the green with traditional games and stalls, tea tent, band and demonstrations of the values of scouting.

This is a fundraising event to help us continue to provide a valuable experience to those young people taking part in scouting.

Cost: Free In aid of 1st Old Malden Scouts Group For more details, call Duncan Stewart on 07766824100 www.1stoldmaldenscoutgroup.co.uk Kingston Artists’ Open Studios Sat-Sun 6-7th June and Sat-Sun 1314th June For full details visit: www.kingstonartistsopenstudios.co.uk

bridge ........ bridge

Creating Connections Inspiring Success

Creating Connections Inspiring Success

LET’S GO SL IDENTIFY THE VILLAIN – SAYS MENDELSO PAUL MENDELSON GURU!

Let’s start the year with sl

Hampton Court, Kingston, Ditton, When Surbiton,Thames playing at bridge hand there ismisunderstood usually one - and frequ opponent who threatens you more than the other. If you Quantitative Raise.

Balham, Putney, Streatham and Wimbledon Hampton Court, Kingston, Surbiton,Thames Ditton, Wimbledon, Putney, Balham, Kingston, can identify the villain, you will often succeed.

North Surbiton, Streatham and Hampton Court Balham, Putney, Streatham and Wimbledon Wimbledon, Putney, Balham, Kingston,

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EMAIL S Q1 COLLECT COPIES A Surbiton, Streatham Hampton Court North Want to beand seen? julie.eltham@theathenanetwork.com H AK EMAIL S K86 COLLECT COPIES AT OUR “HOTSPOTS” www.theathenanetwork.com D KJ EMAIL * Nicholas & Steele julie.eltham@theathenanetwork.com H 83 C AK julie@theathenanetwork.com www.theathenanetwork.com EMAIL D AJ64 * Nicholas & Steele 78 Durham Rd Tel: 07947 011879 West HELPFUL WIMBLEDON WEBSITES julie@theathenanetwork.com Tel: 07947 011879 C AK43 S J932 * Maison St. Cassie East HELPFUL WIMBLEDON WEBSITES Love Wimbledon West H 1096 Tel: 020 8944 1200 HELPFUL WIMBLEDON WEBSITES S 10752 www.lovewimbledon.org S J93 * Maison St. Cassien, Wimbledon Village Love Wimbledon D 85 Love Wimbledon H 1076 H AJ954 London Borough of Merton Tel: 020 8944 1200 HELPFUL WIMBLEDON WEBSITES www.lovewimbledon.org C 32 * Southfields Galle www.lovewimbledon.org D Q982 D 7 Love Wimbledon www.merton.gov.uk London Borough of Merton 07947 London Borough of C Tel: J9 C Merton Q1082 * Southfields Gallery 223 Wimbledon Park Rd 675 059 www.lovewimbledon.org Citizen’s Advice Bureau www.merton.gov.uk Sout www.merton.gov.uk Tel: 07947 675 059 London Borough of Merton www.nacab.org.uk Citizen’s Advice Bureau S C A * Truckles Deli on Citizen’s Advice Bureau South www.merton.gov.uk Merton Chamber of Commerce H 3 www.nacab.org.uk Tel: 020 8605 2175 www.nacab.org.uk * Truckles Deli on Lane SW20 S Coombe AQ4 Citizen’s Advice Bureau D Q www.mertonchamber.co.uk Merton Chamber of Commerce Merton Chamber of Commerce Tel: 020 8605 2175 H KQ2 www.nacab.org.uk C 9 Wimbledon Civic Forum * Aromatica Italian www.mertonchamber.co.uk D K1053 Merton Chamber of Commerce www.mertonchamber.co.uk Tel: 020 8944 0309 Wimbledon Town Centre www.wimbledoncivicforum.org.uk Dealer Rd South N/S Game Wimbledon Civic Forum * Aromatica Italian Deli on Leopold C 765 www.mertonchamber.co.uk www.wimbledontowncentre.co.uk Wimbledon Society Tel: 020 8944 0309 Wimbledon Town Centre www.wimbledoncivicforum.org.uk Please Wimbledon Civic Forum N E call firstS to c www.wimbledonsociety.org.uk www.wimbledontowncentre.co.uk Wimbledon Society Dealer South Love All www.wimbledoncivicforum.org.uk NB 5NT Wimbledon Civic Forum The Wimbledon MuseumPlease call first to check stocks2NT www.wimbledonsociety.org.uk Wimbledon Society 7NT www.wimbledoncivicforum.org.uk www.wimbledonmuseum.org.uk N E S W The Wimbledon Museum www.wimbledonmuseum.org.uk Wimbledon Society Community Centre NB 1NT NB www.wimbledonmuseum.org.uk Wimbledon Centre To bid 4NT directly over www.wimbledonmuseum.org.uk Wimbledon Community 3NT Wimbledon Community Centre www.wimbledoncommunity.org.uk 2NT, or later in the auctio Wimbledon Community Centre www.wimbledoncommunity.org.uk Volunteer Centre Merton www.wimbledoncommunity.org.uk COLLECT COPIES AT OUR 'HOTSPOTS'Volunteer Centre Merton www.wimbledoncommunity.org.uk West leads 5♥ and declarer counts three spades, one is never Blackwood, since Please call first toMerton check stocks www.volunteercentremerton.org.uk Volunteer Centre Volunteer Centre Merton heart, two diamonds and two clubs, leaving Instead her it isone a Quantitative Learning & Skills Council Commission www.volunteercentremerton.org.ukCharity trick short. The extra trick can comecount fromfor diamonds a small slam in N The Swallow Bakery, Rose Theatre, www.lsc.gov.uk www.charitycommission.gov.uk Learning & Skills Tel: Council Charity 24-26 High Street,Commission Kingston, 020 8546 6983 but, first, the attack on hearts must be survived.

East slam 37pts+.

A Quantitati Charity Commission Wimbledon Choral Society www.lsc.gov.uk www.charitycommission.gov.uk plays 10♥ and, although it might be right to duck, here have sufficient points for 4 Fratelli Delicatessen, 55-57 Park Road, Kingston, www.charitycommission.gov.uk www.wimbledon-choral.org.uk Charity Wimbledon Choral Society Tel: 020 8549 8021Commission it is safe to win with Q ♥ . range, but enough for the Wimbledon Music Diary www.charitycommission.gov.uk Local Police/Neighbourhood Watch www.wimbledon-choral.org.uk www.wimbledonmusicdiary.com U.R.Beautiful, 1st Floor, Boots, 42 Union Street, Stop now and ask yourself what you know about the her raise.

Wimbledon Music Diary www.met.police.uk/saferneighbourhoods Kingston,Local Tel: 020 8247 0386 Police/Neighbourhood Watch Wimbledon Choralheart Society suit. If East had held Ah, she would played So, inhave response to a 1NT ( www.wimbledonmusicdiary.com The Wimbledon Guild www.wimbledon-choral.org.uk Roz ana, www.met.police.uk/saferneighbourhoods 4-8 Kingston Hill, Kingston it at trick 1. So, if West holds it, you would do not bid want East 4NT on 19/20p Wimbledon Choral Society www.wimbledonguild.co.uk Local Police/Neighbourhood Watch Tel: 020 8546 6388 The Wimbledon Guild www.wimbledon-choral.org.uk gaining the lead and playing a heart are back towards thetarget fo short of your Care Connect www.met.police.uk/saferneighbourhoods www.wimbledonguild.co.uk Local Police/Neighbourhood The French Tarte, 83 Maple Road, Surbiton Watch West hand through your ♥K2. However, if West passes; if she wins holds 14pts, www.merton.gov.uk/living/care/careconnect The Wimbledon Guild Care Connect Tel: 020 8399 1123 www.met.police.uk/saferneighbourhoods a trick, your K ♥ is safe from attack from her side of point count and can bid 6N www.wimbledonguild.co.uk Centre Court www.merton.gov.uk/living/care/careconnect The Wimbledon Pickled Pantry, St.Marks Hill,Guild Surbiton the table.

So, East is the dangerous opponent; West Over 2NT, you would resp Care Connect www.centrecourtshopping.co.uk www.wimbledonguild.co.uk Centre Court Tel: 020 8399 4694 relatively benign. or make a ‘Super Quantita www.merton.gov.uk/living/care/careconnect Care Connect www.centrecourtshopping.co.uk IMPORTANT NUMBERS Chicco Caffé, CI Tower, St George’s Square, At trick 2, lead a diamond to the ace 15/16pts. in dummy.That Then bid says: b www.centrecourtshopping.co.uk www.merton.gov.uk/living/care/careconnect New Malden, Tel: 020 8949 0919 Wimbledon Police lead 4♦ and, St George’s Hospital IMPORTANT NUMBERS when East plays low, just cover with 10 ♦. If 2NT 7NT on a maximum www.centrecourtshopping.co.uk 020 8947 1212 or (999) 020 8672 1255 IMPORTANT Wimbledon PoliceRoad, St George’s Hospital NUMBERS The Glasshouse, 14 Coombe West could win, your heart would be safe, and an extra Merton Hospital New Malden, Tel: 020 8942 Police diamondKingston St George’s Hospital 020 8947 1212 or4650 (999) 020 8672Wimbledon 1255 Council IMPORTANT NUMBERS trick would have been established.

Asititcomes is, Although up rare 020 8274 1212 4901 or (999) 020 8546 7711 020 8947 020 8672 1255 Merton Council Kingston Hospital Wimbledon Police St George’s Hospital West shows out, giving you your ninth trick there and particularly satisfying, as NHS Emergency National KingstonRail Hospital 020 8947 8274 1212 4901 or (999) 020 7711 020 020 8546 8672Merton 1255 Council then. Crucially, at no time did you give East a chance to end of last year.

111 08457 484950 020 8274 4901 020 8546 7711 NHS Emergency National Rail Merton Council Kingston Hospital return a National heart – if Rail she had, you and your contract would NHS DIRECT 111 08457 484950

by The Athena Network 020 8274 4901 020 8546Sponsored 7711 have been scuppered. aceoftrumps.com 08457 484950 NHS DIRECT National0845 Rail4647 0845 4647 08457 484950 darlingmagazine.co.uk | april – may 2015 41 Sponsored by The Athena Network 44 feb-march 2012 | darlingmagazine.co.uk aceoftrumps.com 44 feb-march 2012 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

Missing Your darling Magazine?

point of view

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Mindfulness the buzzword in everyone's head

By Lyndsay Russell

O

n the ground near my bench, the gold badge on a dented can of lager glints in the morning sun like lost pirate treasure. I look at it with new eyes. So beautiful…No, I am not losing the plot. I’m practising ‘Mindfulness’.

Rewind three months to my first Stress Relief class and twenty of us lying on the floor, doing a 40- minute ‘body scan’. Our guru asked us to concentrate on our left heel and how it felt. “So bored it wants to kick your butt” my mind answered, mindlessly. But 8 weeks of training later, I’d learned that ‘Mindfulness’ breaks the worry over the bigger, scarier things in life – divorce, death and taking a hamster with wet tail to the vet.

It’s all in the breathing. By batting away daily worries like fluffy clouds, you create a mini-break from the critical, fear-led voices in our heads. Mindfulness also acts as a fuse box. When your boss says he might fire you, you take a few breaths, separate the hurt and

anger, and realise ‘thoughts’ are not facts. Hasn’t happened yet. May never. So you don’t throw a pot plant at his head ensuring it will.

It’s also about ‘being present’. Not allowing your mind to dwell in the past or the future - where we either feel nostalgic and depressed, or anxious and fearful.

Stay ‘in the moment’ and you are FINE. Tick-box the little things that are good now. Coffee with a friend… the sun on your face. Taken to extreme, even if you’re being chased by an escaped lion craving a mid-day snack, the seconds right up to being caught, you’re still okay – you’re not actually hurting. And no one can be sure of the future.

Hey, a traffic warden might distract it with a zebra sandwich, and you’ll be fine.

‘Mindfulness’ is really another form of meditation combining modern science with ancient wisdom.

Luckily for the human race, it’s now being taught in businesses, schools and even through the NHS. So yes, I’ve been tricked into a practice that I thought was for Dalai Lamas, Surrey yoga teachers and Gwyneth Paltrow. However, I’m now meditating on a mushroom like a lost member of The Beatles. Trust me, if you’re feeling stressed, it works a lot better than ten cans of gold badge lager.

Recommended reading: The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle

42

april – may 2015 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

Time on Your Hands?

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