Life Magazines (Buckinghamshire Editions) April 2022

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FROM THE

EDITOR H

istoric Royal Palaces and IMG have announced that Fortnum & Mason will be their Official Picnic Partner for 2022. With delicious treats fit for a king or queen, the incredible Fortnum & Mason picnics can be enjoyed in the glorious grounds of Hampton Court Palace.

Arrive early to indulge in seasonal mouth-watering food – the perfect way to soak up the pre-concert atmosphere.

A selection of delicious picnics will be available- crafted with the very best seasonal ingredients fresh from Fortnum’s famous Food Halls. Perfect for two people, The Fortnum’s Picnic and The Fortnum’s Garden Picnic (v) each consist of a starter, main, cheese plate, pudding, and bottle of wine, served inside a cool bag in Fortnum’s iconic Eau de Nil colour.

With a history as rich as it is long, Royal Ascot sits proudly as the jewel in the crown of horse racing. Five days of unparalleled racing, high fashion, fine dining and pageantry, the Royal Meeting is renowned across the globe and creates an unforgettable experience in a unique setting. Underpinned with a rich and deeprooted heritage, it has not only survived the rigours of time, but it has thrived.

Royal Ascot is Britain’s most valuable race meeting, attracting many of the world’s finest racehorses. It is an experience shaped by the iconic moments that punctuate each day. Whether it’s the arrival of the Royal Procession at 2pm sharp, six world-class races throughout the afternoon or the communal singing around Ascot’s

bandstand early evening, each day is an unforgettable whirlwind of excitement and colour. Though there are several nuanced variations that differentiate one day from the next, each shares the same magnificent atmosphere and sense of occasion, each is unmistakably Ascot.

Grand Designs Live will return to ExCeL London, hosted by TV presenter and design guru Kevin McCloud. The inspirational event is a must-visit for those looking to find information on and learn about the world of interiors, home design, self and custom build.

Grand Designs Live features the latest in ideas, innovation and home project guidance. Visitors can find an array of exhibitors, experts and live talks, across four unique Project Zones; Build, Kitchens & Bathrooms, Gardens and Interiors. Visitors will have the opportunity to hear from an array of industry experts at the Grand Theatre, where an engaging line-up of talks will take centre stage on each day. These include a broad range of home, interior, custom and self-build topics from extensions to sustainability in the building industry and much more.

Faye Manning Editor

EDITOR FAYE MANNING EDITOR’S ASSISTANT KIERAN BULLWORTHY SUB EDITOR CHANG KAIRA FASHION EDITOR BEN JONES BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER CLAIR GIBBS, PRUVEE PATEL ACCOUNT/ADMIN KATHY MANNING, ANDREE GEORGIOU DESIGN & PRODUCTION BOB AMBROSE DIRECTORS PATRICK SMITH, RORY SMITH PUBLISHED BY FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD

0844 800 8439

www.thelifemagazines.com

© All Rights reserved: All Fish Media Group Ltd magazines are copyright and cannot be reproduced in any form either in part or whole without written permission from the publishers. Whilst Fish Media Group Ltd takes every reasonable precaution, no responsibility can be accepted for any property, services or products offered in any of our publications and any loss arising. Whilst every care is taken with all materials submitted to all of our magazines the publisher cannot accept the loss or damage to such material. The Fish Media Group Ltd reserves the right to reject or accept any advertisement, article or material prior to publication. Opinions expressed are strictly those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views or policies of Fish Media Group Ltd. We accept no liability for any misprints or mistakes and no responsibility can be accepted for the content of these pages.

MEDIA SAI�ES EXECUTIVES FlSH MEDIA GROUP

CONTENTS OUT & ABOUT

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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

75

HOUSE & GARDEN

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We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month We are the proud publishers of this high quality group of magazines and are looking for two experienced telephone and face to face sales executives.

We pay a high basic plus uncapped commission, on-going training and a real development to managing your own group of magazines.

You must be enthusiastic, outgoing, confident and above all you must be able to sell.

If you can really sell and want to be part of our expansion programme call Patrick Smith on 07932 608797.

Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best Keep it local for everything house and home

To see the quality of our magazines and portfolio visit www.thelifemagazines.com

fish media group

0844 800 8439

www.thelifemagazines.com

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OUT & ABOUT – We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month – I M AG E : C H I L F E S T

OUT & ABOUT

27 APRIL SIR RANULPH FIENNES: LIVING DANGEROUSLY Named by the Guinness Book of Records as ‘the world’s greatest living explorer’, Sir Ranulph Fiennes has spent his life in pursuit of extreme adventure, risking life and limb in some of the most ambitious private expeditions ever undertaken. Amongst his many record-breaking achievements, he was the first to reach both Poles, the first to cross the Antarctic and Arctic Ocean, and the first to circumnavigate the world along its polar axis.

In Living Dangerously, Sir Ranulph offers a personal journey through his life, from his early years to the present day. Spanning Sir Ranulph’s childhood and school misdemeanours, his army life and early expeditions, right through the Transglobe Expedition to his current Global Reach Challenge.

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, Bucks HP20 1UG

[EVENTS]

THE CALENDAR 13 APRIL

THE VACCINES One of Britain’s most vital guitar bands The Vaccines are an incredible live force and they return to the live stage with their brilliant fifth album, Back In Love City.

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP20 1UG

18 APRIL 2022

13-24 APRIL EASTER ADVENTURES IN NATURE AT WADDESDON MANOR Get out into nature this Easter holiday with a visit to Waddesdon.

Take part in our family-friendly trail with nature-themed activities to complete as you follow your map through the grounds. Don’t forget to claim your chocolate egg at the end!

Make your visit this Easter even more special with a sumptuous afternoon tea in our Manor Restaurant or why not pick up one of our delicious picnics to enjoy in the grounds?

Waddesdon Manor, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP18 0JH

20 APRIL ITALIAN WINE TASTING WITH MARK HUGHES

23 MAY GO WEST AND PAUL YOUNG Hitting the road on a double bill tour, these two heavyweight chart toppers will be performing all their hits on a bumper bill of nostalgic pop! Celebrating 35 years, Go West were one of the most successful singer/songwriter duos of the 80’s. Formed in 1982 by Peter Cox and Richard Drummie, they produced hits such as ‘We Close Our Eyes’, ‘Call Me’ and ‘Don’t Look Down’ . Go West were voted Best Newcomer at the 1986 Brit Awards. In 1990 their track ‘King of Wishful Thinking’ featured on the hugely successful soundtrack for the blockbuster smash Pretty Woman.

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, Bucks HP20 1UG

Italian Wine tasting interspersed with Italian Romantic song. A range of Italian and Slovenian wines, white, red and Prosecco, will be introduced and tasted in the course of the evening along with appropriate musical interludes.

The King’s Chapel 30 High St Old Amersham HP7 0DJ

UNTIL OCTOBER ALICE’S WONDERLANDS Join us this year to celebrate the life, collections and legacy of Alice de Rothschild (1847-1922).

Discover her key role in Waddesdon’s history with exhibitions and displays, special tours, themed activities, and much more throughout the year.

Waddesdon Manor, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP18 0JH

ALL YEAR

10 MAY RED KITES - OPEN GARDEN FOR NGS This Chiltern hillside garden of 1½ acres is planted for year-round interest and has superb views. Lovingly and beautifully maintained, there are several different areas to relax in, each with their own character. Wildflower orchard, mixed borders, pond, vegetables, woodland area and a lovely hidden garden. Many climbers used in the garden which changes significantly through the seasons.

Red Kites, Bledlow Ridge, Buckinghamshire HP14 4JJ

BEKONSCOT MODEL VILLAGE & RAILWAY Bekonscot Model Village and Railway is the world’s oldest and original model village, opening for the first time in 1929. Bekonscot delights visitors of all ages. It is a miniature wonderland with a large Gauge 1 railway, where nobody grows up.

Warwick Road, Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, HP9 2PL APRIL 2022 19

30 APRIL OPEN MIC NIGHT

27-29 MAY

THE ROSÉ FESTIVAL An exciting new concept, The Rosé Festival, is coming to the Gardens of Fulham Palace in London, SW6. The festival will celebrate all things rosé, food, music with special guests throughout the weekend, and is set to kick off the Summer season in true style. Throughout the long weekend you can enjoy samplings from over 40 rosé producers from around the world, with brands including Mirabeau and Léoube.

For tickets visit: therosefestival.seetickets.com/tour/the-rose-festival

Step onto the Limelight Theatre stage and share your talent with an appreciative crowd. Whether a musician, a magician, a comedian, a singer, a dancer, an actor or an all-rounder - all are welcome.

Queens Park Arts Centre Queens Park Aylesbury Bucks Buckinghamshire HP21 7RT

1 MAY CHILTERN HILLS BLUEBELL WALK Take on this beautiful bluebell walk from Aston Rowant Nature Reserve in aid of Aylesbury charity Pace, a groundbreaking children’s charity that transforms the lives of children and young people with neurodisabilities, such as cerebral palsy. Our approach is a belief in every child’s ability to learn and make progress, whatever the challenges they face.

Aston Rowant Nature Reserve Lewknor, High Wycombe, Bucks HP14 3YL

30 MAY 24 APRIL ST GEORGE’S DAY VICTORIAN HISTORICAL FAYRE AND PARADE Step back in time at Aylesbury Town Council’s St George’s Day Victorian Historical Fayre and Parade. We’re excited to bring you this entirely FREE event in a brand-new format. There is lots to see and do. Give St George and his steed a wave as he leads the spectacular St George’s Day parade. This one promises to be a parade Aylesbury will be proud of !

Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire HP20 2QP 20 APRIL 2022

GLEBE FARM OPEN GARDEN FOR NGS A large cottage garden with an exuberance of colourful planting and winding gravel paths, amongst lawns and herbaceous borders on two levels. Ponds, a wishing well, vegetable beds, a knot garden, a small walled garden and an old tractor.

Glebe Farm, Buckingham, Buckinghamshire MK18 5BB Buckinghamshire HP21 7RT

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Conveyancing fraud

How to protect yourself when buying or selling your home

C

riminals are actively targeting people buying or selling a property with the sole aim of tricking you into transferring deposit funds, or in some cases, the balance of purchase monies.

Like many digital scams, criminal activity has become highly sophisticated and nearly always involves the criminal pretending to be your conveyancing solicitor to con you into providing payment into an account they control.

How does a conveyancing scam normally work?

Conveyancing scams normally happen via email. Typical fraud signs in the email include spelling mistakes, and often a change of salutation - for example the fraudster may address you as sir/madam rather than by your name.

The email address can often be a giveaway, and this should be checked before replying. Scam email addresses will invariably include the firm’s name but pay attention to the information after the @ symbol.

What can I do to protect myself from conveyancing fraud?

1. Beware of changes to payment details - Solicitors rarely change their bank details. If you receive an email stating a change in bank details, call a published telephone number from your solicitors website to ask.

22 APRIL 2022

2. Transfer a small amount of funds first Call your solicitor in advance of making any money transactions – if in doubt, transfer a small amount of money to check receipt before transferring larger sums.

3. Set strong and separate passwords for your accounts - A strong password comprises random words, numbers and symbols.

4. Avoid posting on social platforms about buying or selling your home - Criminals monitor social media platforms to build information on anyone buying or selling their home.

5. Avoid using unprotected wi-fi systems to check emails – Avoid using any public wi-fi system to check progress of your purchase/sale.

To buy or sell your home safely, contact Kidd Rapinet’s residental conveyancing team for advice and support.

Tel: 01494 619054 or visit: kiddrapinet.co.uk

Need to budget for your next move?

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AY L E S B U RY

FARN HA M

HIG H WYCOMBE

LOND ON

MAI DENHEAD

SLOU GH

OUT & ABOUT

FORTNUM & MASON

RETURNS TO HAMPTON COURT PALACE FESTIVAL 2022

H

VIP hospitality, waterside gazebos & luxury hampers.

Thursday 9th June - Saturday 25th June 2022

istoric Royal Palaces and IMG have announced that Fortnum & Mason will be their Official Picnic Partner for 2022.

With delicious treats fit for a king or queen, the incredible Fortnum & Mason picnics can be enjoyed in the glorious grounds of Hampton Court Palace. Arrive early to indulge in seasonal mouth-watering food – the perfect way to soak up the pre-concert atmosphere.

A selection of delicious picnics will be availablecrafted with the very best seasonal ingredients fresh from Fortnum’s famous Food Halls. Perfect for two people, The Fortnum’s Picnic and The Fortnum’s Garden Picnic (v) each consist of a starter, main, cheese plate, pudding, and bottle of wine, served inside a cool bag in Fortnum’s iconic Eau de Nil colour.

“For special celebrations, make your evening unique with a VIP concert and dining experience” The Fortnum’s Feast and The Fortnum’s Garden Feast (v) are a more decadent affair with a greater abundance of Fortnum’s fine food and premium wine, all housed inside the iconic Huntsman Wicker. The Picnics arrive fully plated in either a F&M cool bag or wicker and include plates, cutlery packs and glasses.

For an even more luxurious experience,

entertain in one of the festival’s lavish Waterside Gazebos. Whether you’re enjoying one of the Fortnum & Mason Picnics or bringing your own, the Waterside Gazebos will add a little extra grandeur to your evening with exclusive alfresco dining.

Each exclusively hired gazebo includes a dining table with six chairs (standing 10 people maximum) and beautiful table lanterns. Dedicated staff members will be on hand to assist with additional refreshments.

For special celebrations, make your evening unique with a VIP concert and dining experience.

With the King’s Dining Package, follow in the footsteps of our infamous Kings and Queens for a truly unforgettable evening of fine dining.

Experience an exceptional three-course dinner where royalty themselves dined and entertained, all before taking premium seats in the stunning Tudor Courtyard for the main music event.

Hampton Court Palace Festival is a series of truly special open-air concerts with artists performing in an intimate 3,000-seat auditorium.

This year’s unmissable line-up features Grammy award-winning superstar Kacey Musgraves, UK pop royalty McFly, 80s legends The Human League and reggae band UB40 featuring Ali Campbell, New Zealand rock band Crowded House, musical duo Michael Ball & Alfie Boe, acclaimed singer-songwriter Jack Savoretti, Ministry of Sound Classical and Indie rock giants, Elbow.

THE DETAILS For more details visit hamptoncourtpalacefestival.com Hospitality: hamptoncourtfestivalinfo@img.com

24 APRIL 2022

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LOUT O C A& L ABOUT

Royal Ascot 14-18 June 2022

W

ith a history as rich as it is long, Royal Ascot sits proudly as the jewel in the crown of horse racing.

Five days of unparalleled racing, high fashion, fine dining and pageantry, the Royal Meeting is renowned across the globe and creates an unforgettable experience in a unique setting.

Underpinned with a rich and deep-rooted heritage, it has not only survived the rigours of time, but it has thrived.

Royal Ascot is Britain’s most valuable race meeting, attracting many of the world’s finest racehorses. It is an experience shaped by the iconic moments that punctuate each day. Whether it’s the arrival of the Royal Procession at 2pm sharp, six world-class races throughout the afternoon or the communal singing around Ascot’s bandstand early evening, each day is an unforgettable whirlwind of excitement and colour. Though there are several nuanced variations that differentiate one day from the next, each shares the same magnificent atmosphere and sense of occasion, each is unmistakably Ascot.

An experience meant to be shared, Royal Ascot is the perfect occasion for socialising. The Royal Meeting hosts a choice of four separate enclosures, 26 APRIL 2022

each with its own ambiance and energy and has plenty to offer in terms of dining; a three course a la carte luncheon, gourmet picnic, Champagne afternoon tea or Fine Dining in one of Ascot’s restaurants, which in turn offer differing cuisines, atmospheres and views of the racecourse.

Royal Ascot is also synonymous with sartorial elegance as guests are welcomed to contribute to the sense of occasion by dressing in accordance with Royal Ascot’s Style Guide. Ascot’s dress code is traditional, woven into the very fabric of the racecourse’s history. Each year the racecourse is awash with colourful classic and contemporary fashions as well as the most magnificent and spectacular millinery creations.

Be part of the drama.

Book now at ascot.com

“Royal Ascot is Britain’s most valuable race meeting, attracting many of the world’s finest racehorses”

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COVER STORY

COMER HOMES OFFER EXCLUSIVE FIRST LOOK AT HISTORIC NEWLAND PARK SCHEME S et to be launched onto the market in Q3 2022 is the first phase of new homes at the much-anticipated Newland Park, Chalfont St. Giles. Occupying a prominent position on the 168-acre private gated site, which was once the glorious grounds of a grand country house, the initial release will comprise 74 luxurious houses and apartments.

Delivered by leading placemaking developer Comer Homes and available through Hamptons, prices will start from £695,000.

Accessed via an impressive tree-lined driveway, the first collection of 10 semi-detached houses, each measuring 2,045 sq. ft., will benefit from modern interiors, large gardens and private off-

28 APRIL 2022

street parking. In total, 64 apartments will be available, with open-plan spaces and generous outside space that provide supreme comfort and functionality.

Setting a new standard of living in the area, Newland Park will also offer residents direct access to expansive private grounds that will feature a mixture of landscaped and wild planted gardens and parkland, as well as modern sports facilities and a state-of-the-art premium health & wellness facility.

Additionally, there will be ample underground parking, with the facility for electric charging units, whilst 24-hour security will be present across the site. There will also be a courtesy shuttle bus

“The first collection of 10 semi-detached houses, each measuring 2,045 sq. ft., will benefit from modern interiors, large gardens and private off-street parking”

service in operation, exclusively for residents, from Newland Park to local commuter stations and popular shopping destinations.

Steeped in history, Newland Park is centred around a Grade II Listed former country manor that will be restored and refurbished. Frequented by royalty, the 18th Century house once hosted King George III, which is marked by a stone statue called Gott’s Monument, erected to commemorate the death of a stag killed during a hunt with the king. Still present today, part of the regeneration works will see the monument repaired and restored.

Popular with notable figures throughout its existence, Newland Park has also previously welcomed Suffragette leader Emmeline Pankhurst, acclaimed author H.G. Wells and Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw.

The Parish of Chalfont St. Giles is in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, on the edge of the Chiltern Hills, and particularly popular with families and commuters due to its proximity to good schools and excellent transport links.

Well-located, Newland Park is close to Chalfont & Latimer and Chorleywood stations, which provide direct links into central London via the Chiltern Railways and London Underground Metropolitan Line.

THE DETAILS For further information on the first phase at Newland Park or to register your interest and sign up for an exclusive pre-launch tour of the Marketing Suite and Show Homes, contact the Comer Homes sales team or sole agents Hamptons on 01494 506 364, Email: info@newlandpark.com or visit newlandpark.com

APRIL 2022 29

OUT & ABOUT

ARTBAG

Meet local Artist and Mother ARTBAG; known to her art students as Debra Franses. She is gaining recognition for her highly desirable Resin Handbag sculptures in the UK and throughout Buckinghamshire. Now represented by Clarendon Fine Art with Galleries in Marlow, Beaconsfield, Windsor and nationwide; you can also meet her in person at her studio showroom at 120 High Street Old Amersham.

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What is it made from?

Resin, It looks like glass because it’s perfectly transparent. I love the idea of letting the light come in and revealing what is usually hidden. I also use 22 ct gold plated barbed wire to represent the gilded cage some women may find themselves in as they give up careers for motherhood’s demands.

hat is ARTBAG? A giant resin handbag selfie!

A transparent Sculpture in Resin shaped like a Handbag - A portrait of things and people we love full of memories and objects that hold value to us for a myriad of reasons. A baby’s first shoe, a ring, a poem, postcard, badge, ticket to a Bowie concert , a favourite lipstick, a perfume or sunglasses, old watch of a beloved relative, toy car, Lego and so on…all of this encased in a transparent handbag, preserved forever. Perfect for a mother’s day present!

But why a handbag?

We are what we carry, literally our beautiful baggage. There is actually something called ‘handbagology’ by Karen Pine, a Psychology Professor. You may have seen the recent exhibition at the V&A on “Handbags inside out” where the curators explored themes such as handbags as Status symbols, Celebrity worship, believing a bag is an ‘investment’, Identity and Feeling fat? The bag always fits…!

What gave you the idea to put things inside?

I like to play with the memories an object can trigger. Its so personal, intimate and individual. My mum is always passing on objects she has collected from my family and each one tells a story. When we lose our memories, we lose our identity. I love how objects hold nostalgic pleasures for the whole family.

“It takes a good 15 years to become an overnight success!”

THE DETAILS Artbag To purchase or commission one of the beautiful hand made objects visit www.artbagstudio.com or call 07900212499 30 APRIL 2022

Best piece of advice?

Do what you love, do it well and with passion and your audience will find you from my CSM tutor in 2004. Also, my friend from NYC Platon said to me in 2008 it takes a good 15 years to become an overnight success!

COMING SOON 2/3 BEDROOM APARTMENTS & 3 /4 B E D R O O M H O U S E S

A PLACE NOT CHANGED BY TIME Destination living comes to Chalfont St Giles with the release of luxurious new houses and contemporary apartments set within 168 acres of mature parkland.

REGISTER YOUR INTEREST

01494 50 63 64 newlandpark.com

OUT & ABOUT

GRAND DESIGNS LIVE 2022 30 April – 8 May 2022, ExCeL London The grand home event full of inspiration and expert advice

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rand Designs Live will return to ExCeL London, hosted by TV presenter and design guru Kevin McCloud. The inspirational event is a must-visit for those looking to find information on and learn about the world of interiors, home design, self and custom build.

Grand Designs Live features the latest in ideas, innovation and home project guidance. Visitors can find an array of exhibitors, experts and live talks, across four unique Project Zones; Build, Kitchens & Bathrooms, Gardens and Interiors.

Visitors will have the opportunity to hear from an array of industry experts at the Grand Theatre, where an engaging line-up of talks will take centre stage on each day. These include a broad range of home, interior, custom and self-build topics from extensions to sustainability in the building industry and much more.

Alongside Kevin McCloud, Property Expert, Writer and Broadcaster, Kunle Barker will also take to the stage across the nine days as compere and host on certain talks. Daily sessions at the Grand Theatre, will include ‘Meet The Grand Designers’; presented by different homeowners from the most recent series of the popular TV series on which the exhibition is based. Each day the Grand Designers will also take part in ‘Self Build Simplified’, where they will be joined on stage by industry experts for a dynamic Q&A panel session

32 APRIL 2022

exploring the various aspects of their self-build projects.

Join Architect Richard Hawkes as he talks through whether it’s worth the risk to build a home in the middle of the countryside under the aspirational national planning policy, “Paragraph 80”.

‘The Working from Home Project’, sponsored

by Crown Paints, will see a range of interior designers competing to come up with diverse, creative, and clever concepts to transform the small space into useful and beautiful multifunctional working environments for any home.

Visitors can browse the room sets to take home ideas, inspiration, and contacts for their own home designs.

Regardless of what stage your build project is at or whether you’re renovating one room in your home, the Show will have all the information and inspiration you need for your very own Grand Design project.

For more information, visit Grand Designs Live at granddesignslive.com

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OUT & ABOUT

JAMES MORRISON

Joins Lineup for Paloma Faith Live This Summer One of the UK’s best-loved singer / songwriters, James Morrison, has joined the lineup for the huge, outdoor Paloma Faith live date at Campbell Park on 17th July.

T

he BRIT Award winning artist has enjoyed a phenomenal career since his breakthrough smash hits ‘You Give Me Something’ and ‘Wonderful World’. His #1 debut album ‘Undiscovered’ became one of the biggest of the decade, reaching 5x Platinum status with over 1.5 million UK sales. His recent ‘Greatest Hits’ album features reworked versions of all his big tracks, and he’s been preparing for Paloma Faith with a ‘Greatest Hits’ tour, taking in venues like the London Palladium. When he gets to Campbell Park this summer, he will be ready to put on a truly unforgettable show. Tickets to catch James Morrison supporting Paloma Faith, start at just £47.50 + booking fee from www.lphconcerts.co.uk James Morrison is recognized as one of the finest singer/songwriters of his generation. His five Top 10 singles all rank among the biggest of their era.

Fans were immediately enraptured by an incredible voice which could be both emotive and powerful, as well as the honesty of his songwriting. His success is a reflection of his talent, with sales for his albums reaching 5x Platinum for ‘Undiscovered’, 3x Platinum for ‘Songs For You’ and ‘The Awakening’ going

34 APRIL 2022

James Morrison is recognized as one of the finest singer/ songwriters of his generation

Platinum in the UK – he enjoyed Platinum albums in France, Australia, Netherlands, Switzerland, Singapore, Malaysia, Ireland, Denmark, New Zealand and Belgium on his way to over 7 million worldwide record sales, over 500 live shows under his belt as well as a BRIT Award for Best British Male Solo Artist.

Throughout the course of his career, James has collaborated with high profile talents such as Gary Barlow, Nelly Furtado, Joss Stone, Jessie J, OneRepublic and many others. He recently joined his musical hero Paul Weller for a Live From The Barbican show, which was broadcast on Radio 2, 6 Music and BBC Two. Accompanied by Jules Buckley and the BBC Symphony Orchestra, their soulful performance of the ‘Stanley Road’ classic ‘Broken Stones’ proved to be a highlight of the set. Weller chose their collaboration to be the lead single from his recent album, ‘An Orchestrated Songbook’.

James Morrison is a rare and proven talent. It will be a real treat for fans at Campbell Park to catch his live set ahead of Paloma Faith on 17th July.

COMING THIS JULY TO CAMPBELL PARK...

LPH CONCERTS BY ARRANGEMENT WITH PARADIGM AGENCY PRESENT

SATURDAY 16 JULY 2022

RAGNBONEMAN.COM

LPH Concerts & Events Limited in association with CAA presents

THE AGE OF OPTIMISM SUMMER TOUR 2022 SPECIAL GUEST

SUNDAY 17 JULY 2022

CAMPBELL PARK MILTON KEYNES

TICKET INFO: LPHCONCERTSANDEVENTS.CO.UK

OUT & ABOUT

Bekonscot Model Village and Railway Bekonscot is the world’s oldest original model village comprising of six different villages and hamlets, all stuck in a 1930s time warp. Covering 1.5acres of immaculate gardens, each has its own character, villagers, and features.

B

ekonscot’s historic gauge 1 model railway has been famous since 1929 for being one of the largest and most complex in Great Britain. Complete with full sized signal box and lever frame that controls up to twelve trains at a time.

Enjoy a ride on our 71/4 inch narrow gauge railway which winds its way around gardens, encircling the boating pond on the way back to the terminus, or learn more about the history of the Model Village and life in the 1930s by visiting the Education Centre.

Our tea room serves hot and cold snacks and drinks as well as locally made ice cream from the ice cream parlour and our well stocked gift shop sells the largest range of Thomas the Tank merchandise in the area!

A programme of special events runs throughout the season and includes regular play sessions for toddlers, children’s craft activities during school holidays and visiting entertainers. See our website for a full list of events for 2022.

36 APRIL 2022

Coming up on 14th and 15th May we will be hosting a demonstration of traditional woodcrafting skills with a wood turner and wood carver showcasing their skills. Learn about the Bodgers that were an important part of the local chiltern heritage.

Bekonscot will be joining celebrations for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in June with a special Jubilee Trail around the Model Village, Jubilee tea in the tearoom and Jubilee themed crafts in the Education Centre.

We can promise you a magical summer visit as Bekonscot’s favourite magician, Greg Chapman, returns every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of the summer holidays to amaze you with his special brand of close hand magic.

As the year draws to a close Bekonscot takes on a magical feel as the village is illuminated at dusk.

We look forward to welcoming you to Bekonscot Model Village and Railway to enjoy our founder, Roland Callingham’s magical miniature world.

Tickets are now available to book online at www. bekonscot.co.uk

Bekonscot will be joining celebrations for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in June with a special Jubilee Trail around the Model Village.

Credit: Tillys Garden

OUT & ABOUT

THE ULTIMATE SELF-DEFENCE

TISKA (Traditional International Shotokan Karate Association) heads up clubs both nationally and internationally and was established nearly 30 years ago by Gursharan Sahota, the Chief Instructor (8th Dan) and founder.

K

arate is the ultimate in self-defence promoting fitness, self-awareness, confidence, etiquette, respect and self-discipline. Students at TISKA start from the age of 4 years old and up. It is a very family based club and many families train together.

Recently TISKA proudly announced their youngest Black belt – who has trained consistently with his family and attained his Black belt at the age of just 8.

Karate for children can help with bullying issues, exam stress and the building of self-esteem. It teaches children etiquette, respect and politeness to fellow students and their instructor. It can also help develop their concentration and focus. Many parents noticed a marked improvement of concentration in their children once karate training has commenced.

Karate for adults can help with general fitness and wellbeing and, with regular training, strength and flexibility will improve.

For both children and adults alike, belonging to an association such as TISKA, offers many fun moments and opens up new social avenues for all of our students encouraging many new friendships.

Students are taught from the outset that Shotokan karate is primarily a defensive not offensive martial art meaning students learn how to be polite,

38 APRIL 2022

respecting their fellow students, instructor and others.

Early lessons include the basics of karate.

Everything begins and ends with a bow. From the moment you enter the Dojo students bow to Shihan and upon leaving the Dojo again bow as a sign of respect. You are taught how to correctly and safely form a fist, your first basic punches, correct stances, basic blocks and kicks. TISKA have also produced a free Beginners app available to download to support all beginners in a step by step format from complete beginner through to their first Blue belt grading.

“Karate for children can help with bullying issues, exam stress and the building of self-esteem. It teaches children etiquette, respect and politeness” THE DETAILS TISKA Shihan offers all new beginners 4 weeks free training upon joining TISKA. All enquiries should please be directed to office@tiska.com or 01753 882012

TRADITIONAL INTERNATIONAL SHOTOKAN KARATE ASSOCIATION

Learn the fascinating art of

KARATE

the ultimate in self defence

• FITNESS • SELF AWARENESS • SELF DEFENCE • CONFIDENCE • ETIQUETTE • RESPECT • SELF DISCIPLINE

BEG SPEC INNERS IAL FREE OFFER, T AVA RIALS ILAB LE Chief Instructor Sensei G. Sahota, 8th Dan.

No special clothing required.

Ladies, gentlemen and children welcome.

Families welcome minimum age 4 years.

Every Monday evening at Chalfont Club, Chalfont Leisure Centre Every Sunday morning at Beaconsfield Club, The Beacon Centre Every Saturday morning at Berkhamsted Leisure Centre Every Sunday morning at Henley Club, Henley Leisure Centre

For more information please contact us on 01753 882012 or 07885 294418 office@tiska.com • www.tiska.com

OUT & ABOUT

First Class FAMILY DAY OUT!

Looking for a First Class, family day out? Look no further than a Steaming Day or Special Event at Buckinghamshire Railway Centre in the village of Quainton near Aylesbury.

E

xperience a short train ride pulled by a full-size steam locomotive, then wander around our 25-acre site full of railway with lots to see and do. Take a trip on our miniature steam railway, visit our extensive Railway Museum and our beautiful glass-roofed visitor centre with café, gift shop and vintage locomotives on display. We are open for steam train rides every Sunday (April-October), and Wednesdays during the school holidays.

We also run some fabulous Special Events, including our famous Day Out With Thomas, other licenced character days such as Peppa Pig and PAW Patrol where the children can meet their TV idols and have their photos taken! We also run some amazing rallies, like our Easter Transport Festival, Steam Galas and Classic Car rallies, where you can admire these vintage vehicles, as well as enjoy all the fun of a heritage steam railway!

40 APRIL 2022

“Fabulous Special Events, include our famous Day Out With Thomas”

THE DETAILS If you are local, our Visitor Centre and Railway Café are open Monday to Friday 9.30am-1.30pm with no entry fee required, with lots of good value breakfast and lunch options, as well as snacks, ice creams and hot and cold drinks for you to choose from!

Buckinghamshire Railway Centre Visit: www.bucksrailcentre.org for more information and to book tickets. Tel: 01296 655720 E: office@bucksrailcentre.org

EASTER TRANSPORT FESTIVAL

Easter Sunday 17th & Monday 18th April - 10.30am-5pm

Full size & miniature steam trains Working fire engine demonstrations Vintage vehicles: cars, vans, buses, bikes & .traction engines to admire Children's Easter Egg Hunt!

Enjoy the Railway Museum & model trains Model stalls, tools, gifts & Beer Tent

PRE-BOOK AT: WWW.BUCKSRAILCENTRE.ORG TEL: 01296 655720 BUCKINGHAMSHIRE RAILWAY CENTRE, STATION ROAD, QUAINTON HP22 4BY

OUT & ABOUT

Come and experience the magic…

This May, join Chiltern Arts for a week of outstanding music and magical concert experiences across the Chilterns – and discover fairies hiding along the high streets too. Inspired by the world of a Midsummer Night’s Dream, the 2022 season offers a moment of escapism with venues transformed into magical hideaways as some of the country’s finest musicians present a week of glorious concerts.

N

ehis May, join Chiltern Arts for a week of outstanding music and magical concert experiences across the Chilterns – and discover fairies hiding along the high streets too. Inspired by the world of a Midsummer Night’s Dream, the 2022 season offers a moment of escapism with venues transformed into magical hideaways as some of the country’s finest musicians present a week of glorious concerts.

The Festival’s opening evening concert on 14th May features the Albion Quartet in Monks Risborough, with string quartets by Mozart, Dvorak and Schubert.

Earlier on that Saturday, choral singers and enthusiasts are invited to join the Carice Singers for a Choral Discovery Day exploring Vaughan Williams and Hugo Alfvén.

The following day, at Wycombe Abbey, hear the superbly talented Jeneba Kanneh-Mason perform a

42 APRIL 2022

piano recital of Liszt, Bach and Mozart. On Monday, the Brahms Horn Trio come to Old Amersham to perform music by Brahms, Ethel Smyth, Edward Nesbit and Humperdinck’s Hansel and Gretel.

Treat yourself on Tuesday with a night at The Gatsby in Berkhamsted – a concert and dinner featuring the remarkable Scottish guitarist Sean Shibe: tickets include a glass of fizz, canapés and a two-course meal.

Two Young Artist lunchtime concerts with Colourscape Collective and Connaught Brass take place in Wendover and Hughenden on Tuesday 17th and Wednesday 18th May respectively.

The multi-award-winning duo Catrin Finch and Seckou Keita perform in Henley on Thursday 19th May, as they tour the UK prior to the release of their third album, ECHO. On Friday 20th May head to Great Missenden to hear excerpts from Purcell’s Fairy Queen amongst other baroque delights from soprano duo Fair Oriana – new and outstanding talent in the early music world.

And round the week off in Marlow on 21st May with a programme of words and music from the City of London Sinfonia and actor Barnaby Taylor: music

by Mozart, Piazzolla and Arvo Pärt alongside text from Shakespeare, Carol Ann Duffy and Robert Frost.

Throughout April and May, take your little ones to spot fairies and poetry in the windows along your local high streets – and join the Midsummer Magic this Spring!

Find out more online at chilternarts.com

THE DETAILS Chiltern Arts Request your brochure, find out more, enter the competitions, join the Fringe Festival and buy tickets at chilternarts.com

FESTIVAL WEEK 14TH–21ST MAY 2022 Saturday 14th May

Choral Day & Carice Singers Concert

Princes Risborough

Saturday 14th May

Albion String Quartet

Monks Risborough

Sunday 15th May

Jeneba Kanneh-Mason (piano)

Wycombe Abbey

Monday 16th May

Brahms Horn Trio

Old Amersham

Tuesday 17th May

A Midsummer Night’s Dream: Lunchtime

Wendover

Tuesday 17th May

Sean Shibe (guitar) Concert and Dinner

Berkhamsted

Wednesday 18th May

Connaught Brass Quintet: Lunchtime

Hughenden

Thursday 19th May

Catrin Finch & Seckou Keita

Henley-on-Thames

Friday 20th May

Fair Oriana (soprano duo)

Great Missenden

Saturday 21st May

City of London Sinfonia

Marlow

Discover a whole new concert experience this May...

Tickets £15–£35 Premium Tickets Available

chilternarts.com 01442 920303

Chiltern Arts Season 2022 Festival Week: 14th–21st May

We replace only the clouded up panes not the frames. We also fix faulty locks, handles, hinges, fit new letterboxes & cat flaps.

For a Free Quote Call Paul: 07941 563 424 or email Cloud9.watford@gmail.com

OUT & ABOUT

It’s party time again at

CHILFEST!

Chilfest is thrilled to be welcoming a host of retro acts this coming summer, after two years of Covid cancellations.

C

hilfest are so pleased to finally be able to welcome music-lovers back to our idyllic setting in the Chiltern Hills with a first class line-up of much-loved acts.

Chilfest 2022 is set to be a party like no other, with the likes of The Proclaimers, Tony Hadley and many more ready to get festival-goers back into the groove.

Getting the party started on Friday night are a galaxy of top tribute acts. Music lovers will be able to ‘Come Together’ to enjoy the sounds of The Beatles, courtesy of The Bootleg Beatles, and ‘Dancing Queens’ will be up on their feet to ABBA Revival.

You can also ‘definitely maybe’ enjoy the numerous hits of supernova 90s band Oasis, thanks to the tribute Noasis. And no doubt proving to be a great `substitute’ for legendary rock gods The Who are Who Are You. Finally, Tania Alboni will be bringing the songs of Amy Winehouse back to the stage with A Tribute to Amy Winehouse.

Saturday has an eclectic mix of classic pop artists, including headliners The Proclaimers, who will be performing at Chilfest for the first time. Their string of popular hits includes King of the Road, Letter from America and the classic I’m Gonna Be. Opening the show on Saturday will be the ‘True’ gent himself Tony Hadley, ex-frontman of Spandau

44 APRIL 2022

Ballet, whose dulcet tones strike a chord with the audience every time he plays at Chilfest, his local festival.

Also taking to the stage on Saturday are ABC, Maxi Priest, Peter Hook and The Light, TopLoader, The Real Thing, Bad Manners, Toyah, and Heatwave.

After a challenging couple of years, what better way to spend the summer than relaxing in the English countryside while celebrating decades of fantastic music! www.chilfest.co.uk

SAT 2ND JULY

2022

THE PROCLAIMERS ABC

PETER HOOK & THE LIGHT MAXI PRIEST TOPLOADER THE REAL THING TOYAH BAD MANNERS HEATWAVE SPECIAL GUEST OPENING THE SHOW

TONY HADLEY

CHILFEST.CO.UK PENDLEY MEADOW, COW LANE, TRING

FREE SHUTTLE SERVICE FROM TRING STATION

OUT & ABOUT

A POLO POWERHOUSE A

Sandpolo saddles up for a 15 year milestone in July.

s the British Beach Polo Championships or Sandpolo as it has become known, saddles up for its 15th year anniversary in July, we look back on the world’s largest beach polo event and how it has brought polo, parties, prestige and pizazz to Dorset’s golden coast – Sandbanks.

Most people can understand football or volleyball being played on a beach yet few understand the sport of polo let alone it being played on a sandy beach. The sport of horse polo dates back to Persia in 600 BC and has since become known as the Sport of Kings played in exclusive clubs 46 APRIL 2022

such as the Guards Polo Club and Cowdray Park. However, in 2007 Johnny Wheeler, an amateur polo player, was researching his family history in Poole, Dorset when he came up with the idea of the British Beach Polo Championships to be played on the famous blue flag beach of Sandbanks.

With endorsement from the Hurlingham Polo Association and the full support of the local Council Johnny and his friend, polo manager David Heaton-Ellis, held the first event in 2008. Johnny recalls: ‘The beach was perfect – wide enough at high tide for the polo arena,

“Sandpolo is an enduring boutique event that has enjoyed entertaining an enthusiastic and convivial audience for 15 years”

marquees and grandstand. People were intrigued by the glamour and physicality of the sport of polo, Sandbanks was firmly on the map due to TV documentaries and the astonishing house prices. Top polo players were hungry to play in front of large crowds and sponsors were keen to promote their brands and entertain clients.’

The 2-day event today which attracts 8000 people is still based on the original principle of being polo driven, with a broad range of tickets from hospitality and VIP to general admission. The entertainment off the pitch is vital to its success with glamorous parties on both nights enjoyed by players and supporters alike. Friday night’s ‘Boogie on the Beach’ is an explosion of soul, motown and disco whilst Saturday’s ‘Encore’ beach party is a decade hopping, genre defying night of entertainment to celebrate the closing of the Sandpolo weekend in style.

Initiatives to keep the event fresh have included the first camel polo match in the UK, international beach volleyball, beach rugby, parachute jumps, celebrity DJs, fashion shows, celebrity chefs and of course the charity race between the fastest pony and a 4 x 4.

Sandpolo now has international acclaim with

“The sport of horse polo dates back to Persia in 600 BC and has since become known as the Sport of Kings”

visitors from all over the world. Global brands such as Barclays, Sunseeker, Land Rover, Moet Hennessey, Oakley and Whispering Angel sponsor teams and clamber for exposure.

While the event might sound inapproachable to many, it remains accessible to everyone who wants to get into the spirit of the occasion and be part of the experience. It is friendly and affordable and now truly on the South Coast’s social and sporting calendar.

Despite the celebrity’s and super-rich mingling at the intimate beach site, the polo matches are still the highlight for most. Often referred to as ice hockey on horseback, the skill and agility of pony and rider is extraordinary. Spectators are close enough to hear the heavy breathing of the horses as they ‘ride off ’ the opposition and see the orange inflatable ball fly towards the goal. The humoured commentary always adds to the excitement, explaining the rules and demystifying the players, ponies and background to the sport.

Sandpolo is an enduring boutique event that has enjoyed entertaining an enthusiastic and convivial audience for 15 years.

Blessed with a superb beach and surrounding area, a supportive council and the most talented polo players there is no reason why the event should not continue for another 15 years.

For more information please visit sandpolo.com or email sm@sandpolo.com APRIL 2022 47

Advertisement Feature

KNOWING THE VALUE OF LOCAL PERSONAL SERVICE As our world shifts increasingly online, many things have become easier. But often, online speed means less ability to make things truly personal to you and your lifestyle.

And for products such as your home insurance, a ‘one size fits all’ approach can feel less thorough, impersonal and leave a sense of unease on whether your requirements have really been met.

And, if you have a large home with high-value items that require more careful consideration, it’s all the more important that you feel confident and have the opportunity to have a thorough conversation about your needs and expectations.

At NFU Mutual, it’s this commitment to local personal service that sets us apart, and has allowed us to look after what matters most to our customers for over 100 years. With over 300 agency offices located in towns and villages throughout the UK, we’re part of the fabric of our communities.

More than ever, we’ve seen the power of communities, and how important local knowledge and simply understanding people can be. There’s just something about dealing with a real person, being able to pick up the phone to someone who knows you and your situation.

We live where you live, and when you speak to our colleagues, you’re talking to someone who genuinely knows and cares for the area. That means we’re uniquely positioned to understand the nuances and features of your property, a level of understanding you’re unlikely to find through an online provider.

We know the value of having real conversations with our customers – it’s how we can be sure we’re providing the cover that’s right for you. And that means that should the worst happen, we’ll be there for you to help put things right.

properties. On the contrary, our national outlook means we can draw on experience across the country, and our local teams are backed by underwriters, claims handlers and specialist suppliers. And whilst our heritage lies in farming and rural insurance, with over 850,000 customers including home, motor and business insurances, you might be surprised at what we can offer.

To find out more about NFU Mutual and our Bespoke home insurance for high-value homes and contents, contact Emily Shiach at NFU Mutual Marlow on 01628 565449 or email Emily_Shiach@nfumutual.co.uk

But this local focus doesn’t mean we can’t handle complex or large

J W Bloomer & H W R Langford is an appointed representative of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited (No. 111982).

Registered in England. Registered Office: Tiddington Road, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire CV37 7BJ. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. A Member of the Association of British Insurers.

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J W Bloomer & H W R Langford is an appointed representative of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited (No. 111982). Registered in England. Registered Office: Tiddington Road, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire CV37 7BJ. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. A Member of the Association of British Insurers.

OUT & ABOUT

SMARTER RENT

S

marter Rent is a clever little company who has sprung up out of necessity – realising that many renters need flexible, serviced accommodation we help landlords convert their properties for the short/medium term market.

We caught up with one of our first clients and had a chat with him about his experience with Smarter Rent: Ken bought his home in an exclusive Richmond estate by the Thames in ’95.

“The prices were low and so we bought, leasing the house out when posted abroad,” he explained. “During this period, one of the other properties on the estate came up for sale – a fascinating garret in the garden overlooking the river we could see from our bedroom window.”

He purchased The Gazebo with dreams of turning it into a des-res rental property. Sadly, the reality was that the structural changes they wanted to make were impossible, instead, Ken gutted the turret and revamped from top to bottom, but abandoned his hopes for any major changes.

Ken then handed The Gazebo over to Smarter Rent and eased in to being a very hands-off landlord. “I have been very fortunate with excellent tenants including several movie people. The Gazebo is very secure and far more private than a hotel but with all the ease. Over time, we have developed a very decent clientele.”

“Smarter Rent are astute at knowing the different

50 APRIL 2022

platforms and finding ways of advertising for tenants – every guest has been charming!” Which is just as well as Ken is literally over-looking them.

After the remodelling: expanding the bedroom, updating a marble bathroom, installing underfloor heating, adding an awning over the patio with a little table and umbrella and bbq, Ken says: “It is really charming – which lead to increased revenue!”

What has your experience been working with Smarter Rent?

“I knew when I met Adrian, I was safe – he brings professionalism and is serious about his job – he’s not a high street agent with endless turn-over amongst his employees”. Ken is also confident he can rely on us to look after him and his property. “The service is outstanding and the accounting is brilliant – the company has tip top integrity and honesty. Smarter Rent is the buffer between me and any tenant.” Given that his guest is in the garden this works really well for Ken. “Maybe I should move back to Seattle… but then I wonder how I would ever leave Richmond and the riverside. But you can’t go back…”

Smarter Rent are astute at knowing the different platforms and finding ways of advertising for tenants, every guest has been charming!

THE DETAILS If you have a property that might be suitable as a serviced accommodation, and fancy a little more income with less hassle, do get in touch with Smarter Rent. hello@smarterrent.co 01628633893

3 years ago, I started renting my property as a short-term let with Smarter Rent.

It’s been fully-booked since day one.

I earn thousands more every month.

And everything is taken care of for me.

I just wish I’d done this sooner.”

- Ken, a Smarter Rent landlord in Richmond

Be like Ken. Unlock higher rental yields from your buy-to-let properties, just by thinking Smarter.

Get in touch with our team of experts and find out how to earn more, while doing less.

Hello@SmarterRent.co

01628 633 893

Find out more at SmarterRent.co

OUT & ABOUT

‘NO FAULT’ DIVORCE

Is it the cure all many people hope it will be?

The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 brings into force changes to the basis upon which couples can dissolve their marriage or civil partnership in England and Wales.

I

t introduces, what is being referred to as ‘no fault divorce,’ whereby from 6 April 2022, an application can be made either jointly by a separating couple, or one of them, solely on the basis of an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage or civil partnership. The intention is that these changes will result in less acrimony.

While the changes will be welcomed by many, B P Collins’ family team warn that these procedural changes cannot themselves remove the pain and uncertainty of separation, which often cause difficulties at the end of a relationship. But there are a number of things separating couples can do to achieve a better divorce.

1. Allow time for you both to accept that your relationship is over. Within the new procedure there is a mandatory 20-week cooling off period before being able to proceed with the divorce, the aim being, to give time for reflection. But try, where possible, to take time before lodging the initial application.

2. The changes don’t take away the need to discuss child arrangements with your former partner. When you have children, their needs and interests should be considered first. This is vital for their wellbeing, and it can help to build a strong foundation for you to co-parent your children.

THE DETAILS

3. Provide comprehensive information about your financial and other material circumstances, including any intention to live with someone else or remarry. Try to not play games in the disclosure process, as trust and respect are vital for a good ending.

Allow time for you both to accept that your relationship is over

4. Counsellors can offer crucial help. Talking in a neutral environment can help you and your former partner to vocalise your upset, which may be more important now that you can no longer do so in a divorce petition.

5. Instruct a specialist family lawyer, with whom you have a rapport and will provide clear and constructive advice, even if that includes things you don’t want to hear.

52 APRIL 2022

BP Collins Although ‘no fault’ divorce is welcomed, a commitment to having an amicable divorce is vital from a wellbeing, cost and time perspective.

For further advice contact B P Collins’ family team at enquiries@bpcollins.co.uk or call 01753 279046.

For the full article please visit www.bpcollins.co.uk

www.bpcollins.co.uk | 01753 889995

Protect your beautiful things.

by your side Business immigration | Corporate & Commercial | Criminal | Dispute resolution | Employment Environment | Property | Family | Wills, trusts & probate

OUT & ABOUT

CHILTERN PARK A luxury office building located in Chalfont St Peter with up to 11,500 sqft available, ready for your business to take occupation.

C

hiltern Park is a mordernised business park, strategically positioned adjacent to the A413 between Amersham and Uxbridge. The development is 150 metres from Chalfont St Peter Town Centre, which provides an abundance of shops and restaurants.

Gerrards Cross Station is close by providing regular mainline services to London Marylebone within approximately 25 minutes.

The building is a striking office property completed only 4 years ago to the highest of standards. It is positioned within well maintained and landscaped environment. There is a full height glazed atrium to the front of the building. The ground floor has recently been refurbished to provide an open plan grade A office floor, whilst the upper floors been subdivided using glazed partitioning to form a number of offices, conference rooms and open plan areas.

54 APRIL 2022

AMENITIES • 37 parking spaces + 2 disabled bays • VRF comfort cooling • Double glazed windows • 8 person passenger Lift • 150 mm raised floors • Suspended ceilings with integral light fittings • PIR energy efficient lighting • Carpets • Cat 6 cabling • Tea points, toilets & shower • EPC Rating B

“The building is a striking office property completed only 4 years ago to the highest of standards” THE DETAILS David Charles Property Consultants To arrange a viewing or to find out more, please contact George Moriarty - 020 8429 9003 george@davidcharles.com or Lily O’Donnell - 020 8429 9009 lily@davidcharles.co.uk www.davidcharles.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

DISCRETION

is the Better Part of Valour

The property market has changed astronomically in the past few decades, bringing in a new era of off-market and private sales. Last year, Hamptons International revealed in an article in the Telegraph, an astonishing one in four sales above £1 million in London had taken place “off-market”.

S

o, why are off-market sales rapidly gaining traction? While there are many benefits associated with private sales, for the sake of this article, we will be focusing on the primary factors driving the recent surge in popularity.

The first is discreetness. Unlike conventional methods, details of your property or site are not posted on portals, paraded in agents’ windows, or advertised online and in newspapers only to attract the attention of a flock of uncommitted buyers.

Instead, sales are made through direct contact, ensuring your property or site is sold swiftly to a reputable buyer. Private sales generate a sense of exclusivity, boosting the likelihood of a quick and hassle-free transaction. In comparison, traditional property advertisements have become somewhat outdated and, in many cases, ineffective.

56 APRIL 2022

The best buyers and developers no longer search through pages and pages of advertisements for their next opportunity. Instead, they simply contact SJD and let us know about the types of sites they are interested in. We then add them to our client list and contact them when presented with a property or site that meets their requirements.

At SJD we work to source the right developers for your property, meaning you do not waste your time with unsuitable buyer. All of our sales are made discreetly, protecting both your identity and your individual interests.

Since the company was founded over 15 years ago, SJD has worked to build relationships with reputable developers and buyers that are looking for sites and properties throughout the UK providing a truly bespoke service.

The best buyers and developers no longer search through pages and pages of advertisements for their next opportunity

THE DETAILS SJD If you have a site or property that you would like to sell off-market, please contact us today at steve@sjd-projects.com

What to do if your tenant stops paying rent?

In this economic climate, with rising costs and expenses, more and more landlords are being faced with tenants who have fallen into arrears of rent. This often has a direct impact on a landlord who often has their own associated expenses to deal with e.g. a mortgage. In the event this situation arises, it is important that as a landlord, you know what your options are so that you can decide which course of action is the most appropriate for you.

First and foremost, it is important to consider what type of tenancy agreement is in place. Most residential tenancies these days are let as assured shorthold tenancies (“ASTs”) and the advice in this article is based on this assumption.

Discuss the matter with your tenant It is definitely worth discussing the issue with your tenant before getting involved in litigious combat. Understanding the tenant’s point of view can be important and may impact a landlord’s decision on what steps to take next. If the tenant is in financial difficulties but expects to be back on their feet soon, a landlord may wish to take a more sympathetic approach and agree to reduce or defer the rent for a period agreed with the tenant. If you decide to take this course of action, it is important to keep detailed records of any agreements reached with the tenant.

Possession Proceedings If that fails, your next option is to consider bringing the tenancy to an end so you can remove the tenant from the property and re-let it. Generally, tenants are protected from being removed from the property without a formal possession order from the court.

Removing a tenant without their consent constitutes a criminal

offence and so it is important to follow the correct steps if the tenant does not move out voluntarily. Once you have a possession order, the landlord will need to get a warrant for the tenant’s removal and a court bailiff will physically evict the tenant if they have not moved out by the date given in the possession order. Below, we deal with the notices that need to be served before applying for a possession order.

Section 21 Notice If you are coming to the end of the fixed term of the tenancy, or the tenant is simply continuing on a tenancy that has already expired, it may be appropriate to serve a notice under section 21 of the House Act 1988. This is normally two months’ notice. A “section 21 Notice” can only be used to regain possession of the landlord’s property when the type of tenancy agreement is an AST. There are two processes that can be used. The first is the “accelerated possession procedure” which allows possession claims to be dealt with as a paperwork exercise through the court but that only allows a landlord to claim possession, not rent arrears. The second process involves the court listing the case for an actual hearing but allows a landlord to claim for possession and rent arrears. We generally advice following this latter process only if you believe that the tenant has the means to satisfy any judgment for the arrears of rent.

Section 8 Notice Another option available to landlords is to serve the tenant with a Section 8 notice which can only be used when the reason for eviction meets one of the many Grounds set out in the Housing Act 1988. There are both mandatory and discretionary Grounds which landlords can seek to rely when evicting tenants and involve claims based on arrears of rent, persistent delay in paying rent and other non-monetary breaches of a tenancy agreement. Notice based on rent arrears, subject to the level of rent arrears, usually only requires two weeks’ notice to be given.

The decision as to which process to use is tactical and requires consideration of the material facts.

Rent Deposits Landlords holding a rent deposit may be able to draw down on the rent deposit (or withdraw the appropriate amount) to ‘off-set’ the outstanding arrears.

Get in touch with Blaser Mills Law If you have found yourself in a dispute with your tenant and require some legal advice get in touch with Sangita Manek on 01494 770980 or email sam@blasermills.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

FINDING YOUR PERFECT HOME

A Q&A with Max Warby, founder of Warby Property Search

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ello Max, can you tell us a bit about Warby Property Search?

Warby Property Search is an independent buying agency, we specialise in the search and acquisition of prime property in the Chilterns and the surrounding area.

We act exclusively for the buyer.

How can Warby Property Search help clients?

We provide our clients with trusted and diligent advice in a highly personable manner. We are with our clients every step of the way on their property journey, working on their behalf to find their perfect home, be that on or off market, and then negotiate the purchase on the best possible terms.

We do a lot of the legwork involved in a property search for our clients, and act as their filter, saving them time and ensuring that their energy is only focussed on quality homes that have the potential to meet their needs. Once a property is identified, we devise a bidding strategy alongside our clients, utilising our in-depth market knowledge. When an offer has been accepted, we help manage the process through to exchange and completion, liaising with all relevant professionals involved in the transaction and keeping our clients updated at all times.

In short, we know that finding and buying a house can be a time consuming, complex and stressful journey – we aim to make it easier for our clients.

Why did you decide to set up the business?

My industry experience combined with my love for the Chilterns are key reasons why I founded the business. I was raised in the Chilterns and have lived here for the majority of my life, so I know the area exceptionally well and am passionate about the lifestyle it has to offer too.

It has long been an ambition of mine to run my own buying agency, to be able to help clients find and purchase their dream home is a real privilege and I truly love what I do. I have worked in the property industry for over ten years – across the Chilterns and prime central London - and now felt like the perfect time to launch a business.

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“To be able to help clients find and purchase their dream home is a real privilege”

THE DETAILS Warby Property Search Berkhamsted House, 121 High Street, Berkhamsted Hertfordshire HP4 2DJ +44 (0)7984 330557 contact@warbypropertysearch.com warbypropertysearch.com

Warby Property Search is an independent buying agency specialising in the search and acquisition of prime property in the Chilterns and the surrounding area.

Trusted, independent advice. We work exclusively for the buyer.

If you are looking to purchase a property in the Chilterns then please contact us to find out how we can help and add value to the process. www.warbypropertysearch.com contact@warbypropertysearch.com

07984 330557

@warbypropertysearch

OUT & ABOUT

Hey! Did you know that the average broadband speed in the UK is 50 Mbps?

This means that most homes throughout the UK are likely to struggle with slow and unreliable internet, due to the use of outdated and traditional broadband infrastructure.

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t’s time to say Bye! To slow and unreliable internet and Hey! To fast and reliable full fibre broadband, at an unbeatable price.

Homes in Gerrards Cross, Beaconsfield and Amersham have already started connecting to gigafast, full fibre broadband and thousands more are expected to be connected in the next few months.

Full fibre broadband means that your premises will be able to experience broadband speeds that are up to 20x faster and more reliable than traditional broadband speeds, as the full fibre cables go straight from the exchange to your home: Benefits of full fibre broadband: ✓ Work from home seamlessly and without interruptions ✓ Stream your favorite TV or Movies in 4K ✓ Stable video calling: Connect and share meaningful moments with family and friends. ✓ Full fibre broadband can increase value: Research conducted by the ISP Preview found that 70% of estate agents believe that Gigabit broadband boosts a homes demand.

Price of full fibre broadband: You may be shocked to learn that Hey!Broadband’s full fibre broadband is cheaper or at a similar price point to what you are already paying. Prices start from £23 per a month, with free standard installation.

How easy is it to Switch?

Switching to full fibre broadband could not be easier with Hey!Broadband. All you need to do is visit heybroadband.co.uk or call 0808 168 1616, select your package and book your installation visit.

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Top Tier Family Solicitors Divorce Separation Financial Matters Children Mediation Cohabitation Separation Agreements Civil Partnerships

So very happy with the team at Machins. Immensely grateful for the support and guidance I received throughout the whole of my divorce process.

www.machins.co.uk Berkhamsted - 01442 872311 Luton - 01582 514000

THE

LIFE MAGAZINES

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE APRIL 2022

THE FINEST SCHOOLS IN YOUR AREA

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE

‘Griffin Castle’

at Thorpe House School The arrival of our stunning ‘Griffin Castle’ at the end of the Spring Term has enriched and extended the boys’ learning opportunities, from Reception to Year 6. We certainly have gone ‘all out’ to ensure that our playground is the biggest and the best, ensuring high levels of physical, social and language development.

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he stunning wooden castle structure complements our recently built ‘Griffin Hall’ sports centre, embracing our love of woodland and sustainable materials, with a nod to our beloved Forest School.

Such a glorious piece of play equipment is more than a thing of beauty; it is the children’s favourite classroom. Within it they are free to explore independently, to navigate its climbing wall, staircase, rigging, rope ladder, climbing logs and 3-piece trim-trail challenge. The delight of coordinating oneself up the climbing areas is rewarded by the glory of surveying the surrounding area from the parapet and the turrets. Children’s gleeful laughter and happy chatter can be heard from Oval Way and the duty teachers take joy in observing their charges smash personal physical targets and play in imaginative harmony, enriching their creativity as they play the parts of knights, heroes, pirates, dragons…

100% engagement in their independent learning is guaranteed; through the intensity and determination required of the climb, before the pure thrill of whizzing down the impressively long tunnel slide, or the firefighter’s pole! The sense of achievement at personal targets set by the boys intrinsically builds a sense of what learning is all about; an individual journey, among friends and guardians; inspired by the will to ‘do it’ to ‘smash it’, to persevere playtime

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after playtime. In parallel with the Montessori belief of success being its own reward, there is no ‘learning objective’ set, just pure adventure and a drive to progress at one’s own pace.

The focus and concentration required while navigating the castle structure develops an understanding of the rewards reaped by such dedication, which transfers seamlessly back into academic lessons, which require such independence of thought and discipline of mind.

The love of facing challenges, trying – failing – and trying again, nurtures the catalyst to excel in all things among our boys. Risk-taking, being inspired by others and learning from them; understanding the vital importance of friendship, kindness, support and patience are woven into the tapestry of learning at our school. The splendid ‘Griffin Castle’ is not only the ‘cherry on our cake’, it complements our high-quality Forest School, STEAM and Dramatic Arts educational offerings, breathing confidence into the boys at Thorpe House Lower School and firing them up to embrace academia, understanding the true purpose of school; to build solid foundations for an exciting and successful future.

THE DETAILS Thorpe House School Your local Independent School.

Thorpe House School is an all-through school for boys aged 4-16. Open Day, Tuesday 10th May, 09:00-11:00. Book your place at thorpehouse.co.uk

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE

GOING FROM

STRENGTH TO STRENGTH

“Excellent” in all areas – ISI Inspection February 2022

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altman’s Green girls’ school may be non-selective but their outcomes and pupil achievements mirror those of highly selective schools – as proven by their recent 81% Secondary Transfer Test (11+) qualification rate. Maltman’s girls progress to some of the best senior schools in the country – both grammar and independent – including Wycombe Abbey, Cheltenham Ladies College, Downe House and Dr Challoner’s High School. How do they achieve this?... Through an ambitious and dynamic curriculum, a nurturing environment and dedicated staff, meaning that their pupils are supported, inspired and encourage to achieve their very best.

This rigorous approach and excellent teaching were highlighted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) at their most recent inspection in February 2022, when Maltman’s Green was awarded “excellent” in all areas – an outstanding achievement.

“The quality of the pupils’ academic and other achievements is excellent. Pupils of all ages and abilities make excellent progress over time because of the systematic use of the assessment framework in planning for individual needs. Pupils’ linguistic and other mathematical skills are outstanding, and pupils apply these with great confidence to other areas of learning.

Pupils demonstrate excellent attitudes to learning when the curriculum creates opportunities for them to develop independence in their learning. Pupils readily think for themselves and acquire higher-order thinking skills which they instinctively apply to all areas of learning.

The quality of the pupils’ personal development is excellent. Pupils’ self confidence and self-esteem are outstanding. Pupils’ social development and collaboration are extremely strong; they undertake positions of responsibility with great pleasure and

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success. Pupils make an excellent contribution to the school and the wider community. Pupils show great respect, and interest, in each other’s cultural beliefs and values.

Pupils of all ages make excellent progress over time, as a result of the many opportunities provided for them to succeed.”

The Maltman’s girls continue to impress beyond the school gates. Girls compete in a host of national sporting competitions, most recently being crowned U11 National Champions at the Independent Schools Gymnastics Association (ISGA) Championship and the British Schools Gymnastics Association (BSGA) Milano Team National Finals. The girls also scooped U10 team Silver and U9 team Bronze at the ISGA championships as well as a number of individual medals, including National Champion Gold at the BSGA Championships. There were also huge successes at the Independent Association of Prep Schools (IAPS) National Gymnastics Championship in November 2021. This academic year alone, girls have had sport masterclasses from former England international netball star, Tracey Neville, and the inspiring footballer, Charlie Fogarty. They compete in national swimming galas, netball tournaments, and cricket and tennis festivals. In 2022, 123 girls from Years 1-6 took part in LAMDA Acting exams, and there is opportunity for girls to learn instruments including the saxophone and harp, and take part in language lessons, such as Spanish, French, German and Mandarin.

With no signs of slowing down, Maltman’s Green really is going from strength to strength, and with no barriers to success for these fortunate girls, the future certainly is bright.

With no signs of slowing down, Maltman’s Green really is going from strength to strength, and with no barriers to success for these fortunate girls, the future certainly is bright.

THE DETAILS Maltman’s Green Visit Maltman’s Green at their next Open Morning on Friday 20 May, or pop along to their Early Years Stay & Play for girls aged 1-4 on Friday 10 June. Contact the Registrar on 01753 883022 or email registrar@maltmansgreen.com

Bucks Secondary Transfer Test

81% (11+) qualification rate 2022.

A high achieving, independent prep school for girls aged 2-11

“My daughter has truly flourished since being here and we have seen her gain such confidence, and really develop her personality. It’s been a delight to see.” Reception parent

OPEN DAY FRIDAY 20 MAY

www.maltmansgreen.com | 01753 883 022 | office@maltmansgreen.com | Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire, SL9 8RR

Entry points at 4+, 7+, 11+, 13+ and 16+ www.habsboys.org.uk

Entry points at 4+, 7+, 11+ and 16+ www.habsgirls.org.uk

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE

A

The importance of SCHOOL OPEN DAYS

s we approach the new term, it is now when thoughts turn to Independent School Open Days - allowing you to get a genuine feel for the school and whether on first impressions it is right for your child.

TOP TIPS FOR GETTING THE MOST OUT OF A SCHOOL OPEN DAY… • Check on the school website if you need to make an appointment prior to visiting • It is vital that you are prepared so read their school brochures thoroughly • Take your child with you – their opinion is the most important. Children will get an idea whether they feel comfortable there.

• Talk to as many people as you can: pupils, teachers and the headmaster ideally • Take an independent walk around with your child and chat about any reservations you might both have.

QUESTIONS TO ASK AT A SCHOOL OPEN DAY….

Some questions will differ according to your child’s age and whether you are visiting a day or boarding school.

• How selective is the school academically and what is the current pass rate for the common entrance exam?

• Are there high expectations and high academic achievements?

• Is the curriculum broad and well balanced? (you want your child to be successful but not too compelled in pressure) • What are the classroom sizes?

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• What is expected of my child with regard to homework?

• Is there a healthy balance of fun and academia?

• Is there a bullying policy?

• What lunchtime meals are available?

• What sports and music facilities are available?

• What after school clubs and trips are available?

• How many pupils branch out into further education?

After the tour, you may have the opportunity to meet other parents and children on a more informal footing whereby the teachers and the head can answer queries over coffee and biscuits.

Merchant Taylors’ Prep School

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erchant Taylors’ Prep School was created in 2015 as part of the alliance that was forged between Northwood Prep and Merchant Taylors’ School to provide a through school for boys aged 3 to 18. This has enabled us to continue to provide excellent education whilst developing our partnership with Merchant Taylors’ School. Our school is vibrant and dynamic and our pupils are educated by professional staff that provide a nurturing environment. We aim to instil values, such as compassion and respect, and learning dispositions, such as perseverance and independence, at the same time as ensuring the highest standards of academic achievements.

We are proud that our school contains happy and confident pupils who are excited by the stimulating curriculum that we provide. Through these aims, we believe that education is about promoting intellectual curiosity in which pupils are motivated by and fully involved in their own learning. mtpn.org.uk

APRIL 2022 71

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE

Compassion and Community at St Columba’s College

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t Columba’s College Sixth Form students collected more than one tonne of muchneeded items for the Borehamwood Foodbank during March.

In total, their Foodbank Appeal produced 1,202.7kg, a truly fantastic amount that will go a very long way to helping those in most need in the area.

Julian Milner, from the Borehamwood Foodbank thanked the Sixth Form students for all their hard work: “Thank you and the whole school once again for donating such a vast quantity of items for our Foodbank.

“You clearly did a wonderful job in galvanising such strong support for our Charity. This was extremely generous of all the pupils, staff and parents.”

The Borehamwood Foodbank is part of a nationwide network of foodbanks, supported by The Trussell Trust, working to combat poverty and hunger across the UK. It provides three days’ nutritionally balanced emergency food and support to local people who are referred there in crisis.

Families and staff at St Columba’s also organised a collection of much-needed items for Ukrainian refugees in March.

St Columba’s Ukraine Appeal was shared with current families, alumni, local schools and houses of worship. People were asked to donate hygiene products, baby supplies, bedding, and towels.

Thanks to the generosity of a St Columba’s

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“In total, their Foodbank Appeal produced 1,202.7kg, a truly fantastic amount that will go a very long way to helping those in most need in the area”

family, two 22-tonne lorries transported donations from the school to Romania, from where they were taken by minibuses into Poland.

Many St Columba’s parents volunteered their time to sort and pack up the donations, both in College and at the collection point in Westminster Lodge car park. Students from the Prep and Senior School helped to carry boxes and load the lorries.

“Like so many others, we’ve been moved by the terrible situation in Ukraine,” said St Columba’s College Headmaster David Buxton. “In a situation where we feel so helpless as to how we can support the people of Ukraine, this gesture of almsgiving will help many desperate families.” stcolumbascollege.org

Courage.

Courtesy.

Compassion.

St Columba’s College An education of the head and heart Co-ed Independent Catholic day school for ages 4-18 in St Albans. We'd love to meet you!

Contact us to arrange a visit.

stcolumbascollege.org

Get in touch E admissions@stcolumbascollege.org T 01727 892040

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE

Silverson Machines Apprenticeship scheme Silverson Machines has now opened applications for the 8th year of their Mechanical Engineering Apprenticeship scheme and are keen to hear from local students who are interested in a career in Engineering.

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ilverson Machines Limited, based in Waterside, Chesham was founded in 1946 and has been a pioneer in high shear mixing technology for over 75 years.

Today, Silverson manufactures the widest range of high shear mixers in the world and is active in the Food, Cosmetic, Pharmaceutical and Chemical industries. The Chesham site is Silverson’s head office and manufacturing facility and is one of the most advanced of its kind, designing and building equipment that is exported to over 150 countries and to some of the world’s leading companies. With subsidiaries in the US, France and Japan and a wellestablished worldwide network of agencies, Silverson is truly a global company.

Through the development of new products and its renowned worldwide reputation, Silverson continues its steady growth and therefore needs to secure its pool of skilled staff. The award winning Silverson Apprenticeship scheme was started in September 2014, having been set up to provide Silverson with the highly skilled workforce it needs for the future as the business continues to rapidly expand, and applications are now open for the 2022 intake.

The training scheme offers excellent rates of pay with an annual increase as apprentices progress through the scheme, with structured training and

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the opportunity for successful candidates to enjoy a secure job with a modern, progressive company.

The first year of the scheme is workshop-based, and first year trainees are taught in the dedicated training centre, learning about good working practice and health and safety. This is followed by “hands on” training in practical skills, starting with bench work and progressing to milling and manual turning.

On successful completion of the first year, trainees who have met certain criteria will be selected to progress on to complete the full 5 years of the apprenticeship. Under the guidance of an experienced mentor Apprentices will spend 6 months in different departments on the shop floor, including Milling, Turning, Fitting & Assembly, Inspection, CNC Milling & Turning and the Laboratory section.

If you are interested in this exciting career opportunity, Silverson Machines would like to hear from you!

“The training scheme offers excellent rates of pay with an annual increase as apprentices progress through the scheme”

THE DETAILS Silverson Machines Waterside, Chesham For more information or to apply online, please visit: www.silversonapprentices.co.uk

Interested in Mechanical Engineering?

Earn and learn with a Silverson Machines Apprenticeship Join our award winning scheme: • Excellent rates of pay* • 5 weeks paid holiday plus bank holidays • Structured, “hands on” training programme • Based in Waterside, Chesham To find out more call 01494 786331 or scan the code *First year trainees 2021 earnings £17,000

Apply now at: www.silversonapprenticeships.co.uk

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE

THE ELGIVA

Spring is in the air and our vibrant programme at The Elgiva shows that when it comes to entertainment, things really are on the up!

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articipation and community runs through everything we do at The Elgiva, which is why we are so proud to showcase our Elgiva for Youth programmes – not only is our Youth Theatre off to a flying start, but we have scheduled a range of workshops for teens and children, including a performing arts workshop on the smash-hit film Encanto on Friday 22nd April (film also showing on 23rd April, 3pm) and a fortnight-long summer project based around the beloved musical Annie. With performing and technical places, this is a must for anyone interested in having fun in theatre, whether that’s on or backstage. Auditions for Annie are on Sunday 24th April from 10am – and absolutely everyone aged 7–18 is welcome.

Why schlep up to London when The Elgiva brings the wonders of the West End to you? Our live screenings programme showcases some of the very best current performances. See Game of Thrones superstar Kit Harrington take on the career-defining role of Henry V and be swept away to an enchanted lake to discover if Odette and her true love can break a wicked sorcerer’s spell in The Royal Ballet’s Swan Lake. The RSC’s exciting production of Shakespeare’s The Winter’s Tale considers whether we can mend our past and The Northern Ballet’s Merlin will take you on a sweeping adventure of heartbreak, hope – and more than a little magic.

Plus Ralph Fiennes leads the cast in David Hare’s

new play Straight Light Crazy, a blazing account of the most powerful man in New York, a master manipulator whose legacy changed the city forever.

When it comes to the big screen, we have some great films coming your way – the smash-hit Downton Abbey sequel takes us on a grand journey to the South of France to uncover the mystery of the Dowager Countess’ newly-inherited villa and Mark Rylance stars in The Phantom of the Open, a feel-good British comedy drama about a dreamer who becomes a folk hero. Flex your cultural muscles with you twice BAFTA-nominated deadpan comedy Limbo and The Truffle Hunters – an exploration of the unique relationship between aging fungi foragers and their beloved dogs.

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Why schlep up to London when The Elgiva brings the wonders of the West End to you?

THE DETAILS The Elgiva The Elgiva has something for everyone – dive into our website and check us out! www.elgiva.com

Late Spring Programme 2022

Vortice/Dracula

Swan Lake

Vengeance

The Duke MICHAELA DEPRINCE FEATURING

DANIEL CAMARGO

Steeleye Span

Winter’s Tale

VITO MAZZEO

DARCEY BUSSELL AND IREK MUKHAMEDOV

Merlin A SUBMARINE AMSTERDAM AND 3 MINUTES WEST PRODUCTION IN COPRODUCTION WITH MOTIONWORKS AND LUNANIME AVRO/TROS, MDR/ARTE IN ASSOCIATION WITH BBC AND PBS GREAT PERFORMANCES PRODUCERS BRUNO FELIX, ADRIENNE LIRON, JANNEKE VAN DE KERKHOF, FEMKE WOLTING CO-PRODUCERS ROMY ROOLF, ANNEMIE DEGRYSE DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY TRISTAN OLIVER BSC ART DIRECTOR ERIK FOKKENS PRODUCTION DESIGNER VINCENT DE PATER COSTUME DESIGNER FRANÇOIS-NOËL CHERPIN EDITOR MICHIEL REICHWEIN NCE CHOREOGRAPHER TED BRANDSEN MUSIC BY MAURIZIO MALAGNINI PERFORMED BY BBC CONCERT ORCHESTRA CONDUCTOR GEOFF ALEXANDER WITH THE SUPPORT OF NETHERLANDS FILM FUND AND NETHERLANDS FILM PRODUCTION INCENTIVE MITTELDEUTSCHE MEDIENFÖRDERUNG, DEUTSCHER FILMFÖRDERFOND, NORDMEDIA, FFA FILMFÖRDERUNGSANSTALT, THE FLANDERS AUDIOVISUAL FUND (VAF), SCREEN FLANDERS, THE TAX SHELTER OF THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT OF BELGIUM AND THE TAX SHELTER INVESTORS, MDR MEDIA, THE CREATIVE EUROPE PROGRAMME MEDIA OF THE EUROPEAN UNION RELEASED IN THE UK AND IRELAND BY MODERN FILMS

modernfilms.com/coppelia © SUBMARINE AMSTERDAM / 3 MINUTES WEST

www.elgiva.com or call 01494 582900

FASHION, HEALTH

& BEAUTY

– Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – IMAGE: REC LA IMS1. C OM

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Expert care for all your vision and hearing needs at Specsavers Specsavers stores in Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire support local communities with the best quality of eye and ear care, offering high-quality clinical expertise across both optical and audiology services with the latest equipment and technology.

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ll the stores are fitted with hospitalgrade eye-scanning technology including Ocular Coherence Tomography (OCT), meaning opticians have the capacity to see more detail in the eye than ever before, with testing delivered by optical experts.

Stores are also able to offer a range of all round ear care services. Teams can help with hearing tests in store as well as a hearing check online, and certain stores can offer an earwax removal service and custom ear protection, providing an individual and unique fit through ear moulds, with guaranteed levels of protection.

The team can also help with a range of hearing aids suited to your lifestyle following a consultation with one of the experts in store. There is range of fitting styles that can be very small and discreet, and you can choose from the latest hearing aids, including ones that are rechargeable, made from titanium and essentially invisible to others. They can even be controlled through a smartphone.

Jayven Athwal, ophthalmic director at Specsavers in Marlow, says: ‘Across our stores in Amersham, Chesham, Gerrards Cross, Hemel Hempstead, High Wycombe, Marlow and Rickmansworth, we have teams of expert opticians and audiologists that are fully trained to offer both a clinical service as well as style advice.

‘With the latest technology on offer, customers can be sure their health is being looked after properly as

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they also choose their new favourite accessory.

‘OCT across our stores mean the team can see more detail in the eye than ever before and pick-up sightthreatening conditions like glaucoma up to four years earlier, by using light to take more than 1,000 images of the back of the eye.

‘And alongside a vast range of other products across eye and hearing services, including our Frame Styler technology and Ear Wax Removal, we can offer a complete service to safeguard your health while you express your style.

‘Make sure you book in for your routine check-up and come in-store.’

Appointments are available seven days a week, subject to availability, and can be booked by phone, in store or online.

For more information or to book an appointment go online to www.specsavers.com/stores.

To see Liberty’s exclusive collection at Specsavers and more, www.specsavers.co.uk loveglasses/style/ liberty-glasses-eyewear-collection

With the latest technology on offer, customers can be sure their health is being looked after properly as they also choose their new favourite accessory

FASHION, HEALTH & FITNESS

THE KENSINGTON WING T

“To ensure the safety of women and their birth partners, The Kensington Wing have important infection control procedures for staff and visitors to adhere to, but remain welcoming to your chosen birth partner for all stages of your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay”

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he Kensington Wing is the dedicated private maternity unit at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, providing women with around-the-clock clinical care, comfortable en-suite private rooms and hospitality services.

Being located in the heart of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital - one of the UK’s safest hospitals - the safety and wellbeing of mother and baby are reassuringly supported at all times. The Kensington Wing is immediately located next to the hospital’s outstanding and newly expanded Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and a consultant anaesthetist remains on site at all times, 24/7, dedicated to the needs of women on the Kensington Wing.

In these uncertain times, expectant parents can have additional anxieties or concerns about childbirth or going into a hospital. To ensure the safety of women and their birth partners, The Kensington Wing have important infection control procedures for staff and visitors to adhere to, but remain welcoming to your chosen birth partner for all stages of your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay. Your individual room and en-suite facilities are a haven in these times and the catering and hospitality team ensures your stay is relaxing as well as safe.

On the Kensington Wing the consultant obstetricians, midwives, nurses and maternity support workers provide care as a team. And are delighted to offer both consultant-led and midwife-led maternity packages.

The Kensington Wing’s highly experienced team of midwives welcome enquiries from prospective women and the opportunity to discuss midwifeled care in more detail. These ‘meet the midwife’ sessions are always a relaxed and special time to

talk and discover more without any obligation. For those women who are appropriate for midwife-led care, the team provide full support throughout your pregnancy and the midwifery team are available 24 hours seven days a week for advice or concerns throughout your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay.

The consultant-led care package allows you the choice of one of our experienced consultant obstetricians to personally guide you through your pregnancy and birth. Your consultant provides continuity and individualised expertise throughout your journey. They build a relationship with you and your partner through the antenatal period to give you confidence to birth safely with them in line with your birth preferences. They remain to support you through the postnatal period including your 6 week postnatal check. All consultants are available to meet you and your birth partner without any obligation.

The Kensington Wing enquiry team are always happy to support with these arrangements and answer any questions.

If you would like to talk to one of the team, call 020 3315 8616, email chelwest.kensington@nhs.net or visit our website thekensingtonwing.co.uk

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Become the CEO of your own wellbeing “One sees clearly only with the heart. anything essential is invisible to the eyes” ANTOINE DE SAINT-EXUPERY

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series of major surgeries in my childhood sparked my curiosity about alternative, non-invasive healthful practices such as yoga and using food

as medicine.

As a conference interpreter, speaker and trainer who’s worked internationally for many years, I’ve been an expert on stress, its causes and consequences. Even before the term resilience became mainstream, (over 4 years ago), I was presenting a series of webinars on this topic. How to keep healthy in this digital age, without over-reliance on medication.

These days clients join my programmes to release fatigue, to improve their levels of energy and stamina, and to optimise their brain health. They soon become calm, get rid of their brain fog and recover mental alertness.

Some become addicted to these restful states

I believe there has never been a greater need for such holistic education and interventions they never even knew existed. Once they ‘meet’ my gongs, it becomes easy for them to get out of their own way. To stop, put their load to the side and just be for a while. They feel lovingly held, safe and supported. Cradled in the swirling waves of cosmic frequencies, taking off to new heights or going deep into themselves.

Would you like to become the CEO of your own health and wellbeing? To create radiant health from the inside out for yourself and your team?

Get in touch today.

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THE DETAILS Gabriela Bocanete If you wish to know more about my programmes, to hire me for a corporate course or individual sessions, face-to-face or online. t. +44 (0) 7943 837757 e. info@gabrielabocanete.com www.gabrielabocanete.com

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

If you could change the size and shape of an area of your body without surgery, would you?

Non-invasive body contouring treatments have become so popular over the last decade, that even surgeons have been using them to avoid risks associated with more invasive procedures.

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of treatments on areas where the remaining fat needed a further treatment. Below are the before and after images of her final result. The most rewarding part was hearing this client was finally comfortable to wear jeans again, and no longer live in leggings and long baggy tops.

e have been using CoolTech for the last eight years to help people permanently remove fat from areas of their bodies they struggle to shift on their own. Below are two case studies of Marlow Face and Body clients who had CoolTech fat freezing. CoolTech removes a large percentage of fat (40%-60%) by freezing and destroying the fat cells.

The cells are then gradually metabolized and removed through the lymphatic system. The procedure takes 70 minutes and there is no downtime required.

Client 1: This female client in her late 40’s came to us after being referred by a plastic surgeon. She felt that after having children, she no longer felt confident with her body from her hips down. She initially had a consultation for liposuction to remove stubborn fat across her thighs. The surgeon told her she could achieve the same results through a non-invasive procedure such as CoolTech or Coolsculpting. This way she could avoid general anaesthesia and an extensive recovery.

She was very petite with a slender upper body, but struggled with subcutaneous fat on her thighs.

We developed a program where we would complete one round of CoolTech on multiple areas of her thighs, then assess where to target on the second round. Once her results were fully developed, we assessed her new shape and carried out another round

“Non-invasive body contouring treatments have become so popular over the last decade”

Scan this code to see more before & after images of our clients

THE DETAILS Marlow Face & Body 34-44 Spittal Street, Anglers Court Marlow, SL7 1DB 01628 302028 www.marlowfaceandbody.com 86 APRIL 2022

Client 2: This male client was in his 50’s and felt despite regular exercise, he could not shift a layer of fat on his abdomen and “love handles”. It was not a large amount which made him a perfect candidate for CoolTech. Ideally, people with a healthy BMI who struggle with areas of stubborn fat will respond best to CoolTech.

He had one round of CoolTech on his abdomen and sides. His response was significant which meant one treatment was enough. Had there been more fat to start, he might have required a second round.

Over the last eight years, we have treated over 2,500 clients. We are the leading CoolTech clinic in the U.K. and were the first clinic to launch CoolTech Define (the newest generation of CoolTech), which removes up to 60% of the fat cells with each treatment.

Fat freezing is a powerful permanent treatment, and it is important to research the device as well as the practitioner who will carry out your treatment. To learn more or to book a free consultation, please get in touch.

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FASHION, FA S H I O N &HEALTH B E AU T Y& BEAUTY

NEUTRAL TONES Want to create a bit of calm with your clothes? Prudence Wade finds out how.

LONG TEDDY COAT IN TAN, £44.99 (WAS £59.99); COATED FRANKIE JEANS IN BLACK, £19.50 (WERE £26); ANALISA POINT BOOTS IN BLACK, £24.50 (WERE £35); DOROTHY PERKINS

MARL WIDE LEG TROUSERS IN KHAKI, £27.99 (WERE £39.99), TOPSHOP

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n turbulent times, fashion can be a comforting and uplifting presence in our lives.

What we wear can provide an escape from the craziness of modern life – and this sparks plenty of trends, like 2020’s newfound love of loungewear. Now, the latest style trend to sweep Instagram is a particularly calming one, as it goes all-in on neutrals.

Extreme, meme-worthy fashion – like miniature handbags and supersized hats – have a time and place, but what if you want your clothes to be more of a soothing balm? That’s where neutrals come in.

Don’t be fooled into thinking it’s just about boring beige clothes though, because the options with neutrals are actually endless. Cream, camel, sand, stone, oatmeal – each shade is unique and has its own fashionable ID.

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The coolest way to wear this trend is all about extreme matching. This means going head to toe in a camel jumper, coat, trousers and scarf – the works. Not everything has to be exactly the same shade (after all, that would require far too much effort for what is meant to be a calming trend) – as long as you’re in the neutrals colour spectrum, you’re set.

Looking to give highlighter colours a bit of a break and opt for soft and soothing instead? Feast your eyes on the best ways to wear neutrals this season…

COMFY COATS At its core, this trend is about cosiness and comfort – and that’s why teddy coats in tans, creams and buttermilks have stormed Instagram.

These are the kind of coats you can throw on over your loungewear and be ready for the outdoors. Choosing a lighter colour – instead of grey or black – gives the look a more modern and chic edge, but the fluffy material means you still feel cocooned.

Teddy coats can be engulfing, so if you want to sharpen up your outfit, pair with skinny trousers and chunky biker boots.

CREW NECK IVORY CHUNKY KNITTED CARDIGAN, £27 (WAS £55), OLIVER BONAS

BORG MAXI BELTED COAT IN BUTTERMILK, £63.99 (WAS £79.99), TOPSHOP RIBBED JERSEY LOUNGE LONG SLEEVE TOP IN WHITE, £39.50; RIBBED JERSEY LOUNGE JOGGERS IN WHITE, £45, OLIVER BONAS

SWEATSHIRT IN TAN, £25; JOGGERS IN TAN, £28, AVAILABLE SOON FROM MISS SELFRIDGE

ADELINE CABLE KNITTED CARDIGAN, £99, HUSH

TASTEFUL TROUSERS

LUXE LOUNGEWEAR Let’s face it: loungewear isn’t going anywhere.

We’ve all had a taste of wearing comfortable clothes 24/7, and now it’s hard to be interested in anything that doesn’t have an elasticated waist.

Luckily, loungewear has well and truly evolved into something you wouldn’t mind being seen in – either on Zoom or, at some point, IRL.

NATTY KNITWEAR Chunky cardigans are back in style, thanks to popstar Taylor Swift. To celebrate the release of her album Folklore last year and the lead single Cardigan, Swift started selling a chunky, cable-knit button-up as part of her merchandise. She sent them to all her celebrity friends, sparking a craze for cardies that’s still going strong.

Again, it seems we’re all searching for a bit of comfort in our fashion – so anything that’s warm, soft and cocooning will fit the bill.

“Chunky cardigans are back in style, thanks to popstar Taylor Swift. To celebrate the release of her album Folklore last year and the lead single Cardigan, Swift started selling a chunky, cableknit button-up as part of her merchandise”

While many of us embrace the loungewear trend with open arms, some might miss the days of wearing real trousers. Luckily, it doesn’t seem like zips and buttons have been completely banished just yet.

A pair of loose, chic trousers in a subtle colour is the perfect way to ease yourself back into proper pants. They’re not as intense as a pair of jeans, and they’re a grown-up way to wear the neutrals trend. Pair with a chunky knit in a similar colour, French-tucked at the waist to give the silhouette a bit of shape.

CO-ORD TROUSERS IN CAMEL, £32; CO-ORD WRAP JUMPER IN CAMEL, £26; ANIMAL SKATER SHOES IN BLACK, £38, NEXT

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HOUSE &

GARDEN – Keep it local for everything house and home – IMAGE: ORIGIN

HOUSE & GARDEN

Brave New World SS22 Interior Trend Report Anna Howell, Chaplins Interiors Editor

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hey say that you can’t keep a good man down. Nor, it seems, can you keep a trend from flourishing. For in spite of all the global skulduggery, the mood amongst designers is shifting — away from the safe shores of minimalism and in search of something more spirited. Among the cornucopia of mood-boosting styles are floor lamps that look like marbles. And the classics as you’ve never seen them. For the era of bold, brazen living is back.

And it couldn’t have come sooner.

Unlocking the power of play Take a quick look at the media landscape and you’ll notice a flourishing new genre all about failure.

There is Elizabeth Day’s How To Fail podcast.

And the new book On Failure by the School of Life. But no matter which medium you favour the 92 APRIL 2022

message is always the same. It’s ok to err and make mistakes. Because, well, it might just set you on a new, more interesting course.

The poster boy for such thinking is scientist Andre Geim whose playful “Friday Night Experiments” lead to the discovery of graphene and a rather unexpected Nobel Prize.

It’s with similar abandon that designers have begun concocting bold new forms for everyday things. A floor lamp that looks like a snow globe.

Or else a sofa shaped like an iceberg.

The best part about these designs is that they tend to go where other styles can’t. The VL Studio Floor Lamp, for example, fits perfectly well on a bookcase. While the Albero Bookcase by Poltrona Frau can also serve as a bonafide room divider.

It comes back to a maxim that many a startup has used to try and help canalise breakthroughs:

What would this object look like if it was easy?

Free from any idea of form or function that has tethered it in the past?

The classics reloaded This season, not even the classics could escape this whimsical impulse with serendipitous new finishes being unveiled on everything from Le Corbusier’s LC6 Table to Flos’ 265 Wall Light.

The desire seems to be less about reinvention and more an investigation into how we can make these works as fresh as possible — including updating any lacquers so that they tread more lightly on the Earth.

It’s a theme that’s been widely explored at Danish design house Fritz Hansen as they prepare to celebrate their 150th anniversary with a roster of new-look styles. Among our favourites are

the Fri and Ro Lounge Chairs — complete with speckled new bouclé upholstery that celebrates the kaleidoscopic colours found in nature.

Heritage brands step out out For some brands, the edict of a brave new world meant swapping the sanctuary of the lounge for the lushness of nature. Unshackled from their usual context, they promise to help us live in the garden with new comfort and flair, with options to sit among the clouds at Gubi, or discover a Secret Garden with Poltrona Frau.

Many of the pieces have also been specifically designed to be used indoors, too — symbolising the final erosion of any boundaries between indoors or out. The best so far include the Bohemian ‘72 Lounge collection, as well as the perennially popular Panton Dining Chair.

Design goes full circle The last story is one we’ve been tracking ever since 2017. Call it what you will, curves are everywhere.

And they’re not just restricted to soft furnishings, either.

Amid the cornucopia of sinuous styles are loopthe-loop dining chairs. Sweeping desks. And even the odd circular bookcase.

Part of the impetus for this sumptuous styling is almost certainly traceable to all the undulating shapes being explored in the Metaverse.

For whether it’s fashion, furniture or a Charlotte Taylor render, hard edges are out — and our homes are all the more hypnotic for it. chaplins.co.uk APRIL 2022 93

HOUSE& &PROPERTY GARDEN HOME

What’s the Difference Between WiFi 6E and WiFi 6?

R ecently NETGEAR launched, the first Quad-band mesh WiFi 6E system – the Orbi 960 Series. While the improvement of the latest WiFi standard is gaining lots of buzz and excitement from tech enthusiasts and early adopters alike, the significance of WiFi expanding to the new 6GHz band might not be as clear to some. After all, the introduction of WiFi 6 is still recent news. Here, we’ll dive into both WiFi 6 & WiFi 6E and point out the main differences between the two.

What is WiFi 6?

WiFi 6 (802.11ax) was introduced in 2018, and mainstream adoption of this standard soon followed with the support of many end devices – iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, PlayStation 5, laptops, smart TVs, and more. Key benefits of WiFi 6 over previous standards like WiFi 5 (802.11ac) include 4x connected capacity, increased data throughput, and faster speeds, resulting in improved performance. This makes WiFi 6 ideal for supporting smart homes with multiple connected devices, 4K and 8K streaming content, large file downloads and uploads, and gigabit internet speed tiers, delivering a more enjoyable WiFi experience.

What is WiFi 6E? WiFi 6E was announced in 2020. It takes the WiFi 6 standard and expands it into an exclusive, brand-new 6GHz band. This expansion essentially unlocks potential that hasn’t been seen since the introduction of 5GHz over 20 years ago. With 3.5x more super-wide WiFi channels, WiFi 6E introduces even more capacity, more speed, and less traffic, making it the ideal networking solution for the hyperconnected smart home.

What’s the difference between WiFi 6 and WiFi 6E? The main difference between the two is simply the new, unused 6GHz band. WiFi 6E will still provide you with the fastest speeds and more connected capacity for more devices, but the addition of more spectrum and high-bandwidth channels helps relieve congestion and interference — some of the biggest WiFi issues today. With WiFi 6E, you 19 04 0 AAPPR R II L L 2200222 2

can expect the smoothest and fastest streaming experience, lower latency, and ultra-fast speeds, giving you the best WiFi experience possible.

What does the future hold for WiFi 6E? While some might question how soon they’ll be able to take advantage of the 6GHz band, it’s safe to say that end devices may be on their way sooner rather than later. As leaders of smartphone technology, Samsung announced earlier in the year that the Samsung Galaxy S22 would be WiFi 6E ready at the time of its release. Additionally, Samsung recently announced that its 2021 Neo QLED 8K TVs have earned the world’s first WiFi 6E certification from the Wi-Fi Alliance.

For those who want the latest in technology, fastest speeds and want to future proof their network – WiFi 6E does that! netgear.com

“It takes the WiFi 6 standard and expands it into an exclusive, brand-new 6GHz band”

Beautifully handcrafted Windows, Doors & Conservatories.

With Evolution windows you can benefit from the traditional look and feel of Timber alternative windows, uniquely combined with all the advantages of modern technology.

At Radley Aylesbury we aim to make choosing the right product a pleasure and welcome you to visit our showroom where we will be happy to provide you with totally free and impartial advice in a relaxed atmosphere.

Our strength is not only the high quality of products that we offer but the team that we are. We work together to achieve the best installation and after care possible for our customers.

All installations are given a 10 year warranty which is backed by an independent 10 year warranty for that extra peace of mind.

Visit our showroom or call Radley Aylesbury on

01296 331818

59 Edison Road, Rabans Lane, Aylesbury, HP19 8TE

radleyaylesbury.co.uk

HOUSE& &PROPERTY GARDEN HOME

Spring forward with Origin

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pring is finally here and the sun is shining. Traditionally, this time of year signals the beginning of pool season, where all over the country people start to prepare their pools and gardens for the upcoming summer months. However, when you live in the UK you know sun is not always a certainty, even in the summer! An Origin indoor swimming pool can make it can feel like summer all year round and provide limitless fun, entertainment and swimming.

As we think about moving forward into the warmer months, a lot of us will be spending more time with family and in the garden. Doesn’t it make sense to release the potential of unused parts of your garden and maximise the space you do have? If our recent experiences have taught us anything it’s that having a place in our homes where we can go to switch off, relax and have fun is really important. An indoor swimming pool could be that place for you and your family. Origin specialises in creating award-winning pools that can be completely tailored to you and your family’s needs, whether you plan on using your indoor pool for fun, fitness, or even both!

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Whatever you want to achieve, Origin will help you take the steps to create your ultimate swimming pool and pool house.

We all know the importance of exercise when it comes to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and swimming is one of the few physical activities that benefits people of all ages. Swimming is an amazing activity with multiple advantages including building endurance, muscle strength and cardiovascular fitness but it also heavily benefits

originpools.co.uk @originpoolsuk 01895 453995 info@originpools.co.uk

our mental health too. It improves quality of sleep and reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Having time in the pool everyday gives you the space to work through any stress or worries, in fact the movement of water over your body creates a massaging sensation which encourages you to relax. Just being in water increases blood flow to the brain and releases endorphins, boosting your brain health and overall mood. A home swimming pool will provide you with the resources to feel these benefits on a daily basis, creating a better lifestyle for the whole family to enjoy.

Origin believe owning a pool is about more than the pool itself, it’s about the lifestyle you’re choosing for yourself. In order to truly get the most of your swimming experience, your pool house needs to be well thought out and designed with your goals in mind. You’ll have ideas about the way you want your pool to look and how it will improve your daily life. Origin will work with you to create a swimming pool design that suits your

home, family and budget. They’ve been building award-winning pools for over 40 years and learnt early on that every pool is unique. The process of designing and building a pool house is unlike any other building project as it requires all of the specialist areas to be integrated into a consolidated design from the start. By creating a new social hub in your home you can ensure your pool season never ends.

“Origin believe owning a pool is about more than the pool itself, it’s about the lifestyle you’re choosing for yourself”

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HOUSE & GARDEN

GET INSPIRED

Maximise every inch with clever, bespoke fitted furniture that will not only transform your living space, but also add value to your home.

C

omplete Fitted Bedrooms – a family run business - was established in 1987

by Richard Phillips. Following nine successful years with Wallspan Bedrooms in Bedfordshire, Richard wanted to move away from mass-produced standard fitted furniture which often resulted in design constraints. He was passionate about quality and service too and wanted to offer clients a truly bespoke design service and, more importantly, a bespoke product. The family business operates from three locations in Herefordshire & Buckinghamshire and is now run by his sons & daughters, who have been involved since leaving school.

Our product is totally bespoke and we love the

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variety of the work this enables us to do. From helping busy families make the most of the space in their home, to fulfilling a customer’s dressing room dream.

Our most satisfying jobs are the ones where we can showcase our skills and expertise to enhance our customers home and lifestyle.

Our team of designers have a combined experience of over 140 years and are always striving to develop something new and innovative. They will happily meet you in your home or at one of our showrooms to demonstrate the product and discuss your proposed design. You will then be given the shortest possible lead time and all our fit dates are guaranteed. Our qualified team of fitters will then take care of every detail to your complete satisfaction.

Complete Fitted Bedrooms are proud that all our furniture is sourced from UK suppliers. As our product is bespoke, we can supply a wide range of colour carcasses and individually specified furniture interiors. Our doors can be ordered in many styles, colours, and finishes to suit the customers design requirements. The materials we use can vary from a large array of materials from MFC Pressed finish, MDF Vinyl wrapped doors to sprayed or hand painted finishes. Out furniture is supplied with solid backs and draw bases and comes with soft close hinges and mechanisms as standard.

Our product is totally bespoke and we love the variety of the work this enables us to do

THE DETAILS Complete Fitted Bedrooms Ltd 354 High Street, Berkhamsted Hertfordshire HP4 1HU T: 01442 777111 info@completefittedbedrooms.com www.completefittedbedrooms.com

This is not just bespoke furniture. These are handcrafted designs that capture the heart and soul of your home. Living rooms for cosy quality time. Home offices that inspire your productivity. Bedrooms you can’t wait to unwind in. It’s all possible. Made with love by our family, for yours.

Because all homes are built on love.

Watford

Berkhamsted Head Office

Amersham

61/81 Lower Derby Road, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD17 2NB

354 High Street, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, HP4 1HU

Sycamore Place, Hill Avenue, Amersham, HP6 5BG

Phone: 01923 22 4000

Phone: 01442 777 111

Phone: 01494 43 43 63

Discover the Complete collection at

www.completefittedfurniture.com

HOUSE & GARDEN

ADDING AMBIENCE & BEAUTY TO YOUR HOME There is good reason why many of us gravitate towards water for relaxation.

Undeniably, that sight & sound of cool running water immediately brings respite from the cares of the day and draws people in.

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t Brit Ponds, our client’s approach us with their dreams of beautiful garden water features for their own homes, however large or small, with thoughts of waterfalls, wildlife ponds and natural streams to sit beside with family & friends, or even taking a dip in their own recreational swim pond in the heat of the summer.

We pride ourselves on being aquatic artists, installing elegant and bespoke garden water features for gardens of all sizes to high aesthetic & aquatic standards, and with professional customer services 100 APRIL 2022

to match. We design & create custom ecosystem ponds & water features, each crafted with the customer’s vision in mind, with careful attention to detail by the placing of each rock and aquatic plant. Our ecosystem ponds are created to look like mother nature intended, we use natural rocks, scotch cobbles, gravels and aquatic planting to create an ecosystem water feature that will give you and your family time well spent beside the beautiful sound of running water and wildlife, ‘’golden time’’ we call it.

We are professionally certified to Master Certified Aquascape Contractor status, having trained in

We design & create custom ecosystem ponds & water features, each crafted with the customer’s vision in mind

Brit Ponds are proud to be the inaugural national winner of ‘The Pond Advisor Champion 2021 Award’

Our work has been showcased on Channel 4’s “Extraordinary Extensions” with Tinnie Tempah THE DETAILS Brit Ponds Contact Daniel today at hello@britponds.com via our website www.britponds.com, or DM us on Instagram brit_ponds

the US and UK with leading pond professionals Aquascape Inc. (Greg Whitstock) and ‘The Pond Advisor” Mark Wilson of Any Pond UK (both industry leaders as seen on their YouTube channels).

We work to high technical and customer service standards, using only Aquascape product in our creations, which comes Guaranteed. We regularly work alongside customer Garden Designers and enjoy collaboration to bring a customer dream to life.

However we also like an aquatic challenge here at Brit Ponds, and will turn our hands to renovations and water features that require specialist aquatic skills. Our work has been showcased on Channel 4’s “Extraordinary Extensions” with Tinnie Tempah (episode 2 in Bushey). Our bespoke ‘wall of water’ cascading down the basement wall extension, shown with our clients being interviewed in front of it, in sweeping final views. As a specialist water feature

business we are creative and innovative enough to design water features with very particular customer needs. In Berkhamsted, we renovated an original 1930s water feature that is now back up and running as a fountain & pond for the family to enjoy.

We take our ecosystem pond craft seriously, in it’s design, installation, customer service and ultimately enjoyment for our clients. Our 5 star Google Customer Reviews are testament to that. Our work can be enjoyed on display alongside the café at the Hemel Hempstead Garden Centre – due to be renovated this year. And Brit Ponds is proud to be the inaugural national winner of ‘The Pond Advisor Champion 2021 Award’ at UK Pond College in Northampton, in recognition of the quality of our work & customer service alongside supporting our peers and junior pond builders in ongoing professional training & development in the craft of ecosystem pond building.

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GARDEN HHOUSE O U S E && G ARDEN

JUST LAUNCHED

SEVENTIES SERIES A Design Collection of Stationery, Greeting Cards, Gift Wrap, Art Print and Notebooks

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he decade that was far out and outta sight has landed at Storigraphic, with their ultra cool and hip Seventies Series. Inspired by a decade of adventurous prints, rich colour palette and unforgettable design, this exclusively designed collection features a series of arrestingly big and bold graphic patterns with a harmoniously intense use of deep colours, across wrapping papers + tags (£3.30), greeting cards (£2.90), A6 notebooks (£4) and limited edition art prints (£23).

With more products coming soon, there is every reason to stay tuned (don’t drop out)!

All Storigraphic products are produced in the UK, using FSC certified paper, recyclable (no glitter, foil, metallic ink, lamination), plastic-free and sustainably made using the smallest environmental footprint.

Storigraphic is a paperware design studio and store, producing statement eco stationery, greeting cards, wrapping paper, gifts and accessories. All products are plastic-free, recyclable and sustainably made in the UK, with 5% of sales profit donated to homelessness charity, Crisis UK. storigraphic.com

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HOUSE & GARDEN

Spring into

OUTDOOR LIVING

“At its simplest, outdoor living is expanding your lifestyle into your garden and patio spaces”

Your local supplier with a personal touch. Marlow Stoves is family run business with a genuine passion for what we do - bringing our customer’s dreams to life and creating a better environment for the future.

THE DETAILS

W

ith many of us spending a lot more time at home we often reflect on where best to invest for maximum return. Investing in outdoor living gives you a greater feeling of space and a guaranteed way of enjoy the better weather. It really is the feel good solution.

At its simplest, outdoor living is expanding your lifestyle into your garden and patio spaces. It’s about taking those elements of everyday life that happen indoors, out. Your outside living space isn’t just for show or to grow things in: it’s where you and your family eat, read, chat, socialise, cook and work.

At Marlow Stoves we consult, design, develop and build solutions for all things sociable outdoors. From cooking on gas or charcoal, kitchen, dining, lighting, seating, shade and cover. Most importantly in the UK climate, and our favourite subject, warmth.

We’ve come a long way from smoky open fire pits 104 APRIL 2022

and now supply hand-built, enclosed outdoor wood burning fireplaces with flues to keep the smoke further away from your furnishings and clothes. For all your outdoor living needs contact us or visit our showroom.

Marlow Stoves Unit U, The Rose Business Estate, Marlow Bottom, Bucks, SL7 3ND info@marlowstoves.co.uk 01628 290 142 marlowstoves.co.uk

HOUSE & GARDEN

HEATING YOUR HOME

MORE EFFECTIVELY T

hermostat controls your home’s temperature by communicating with your boiler. ‘Thermostats, particularly in older homes with older heating systems, can degrade over time. Such degradation can lead to delays in your boiler switching on, or your home being heated at much higher temperatures than required’ Warns James. ‘Upgrading your thermostat could provide far greater accuracy in thermostat to boiler communication, preventing energy from being wasted, and saving you money.’

Using a thermostat with a timer offers a simple and speedy solution to controlling your heating effectively’ James explains. Modern day thermostats can be controlled from your mobile, to ensure your home is nice and warm when you arrive home.

Ashridge Construction consists of a team of highly skilled, trustworthy builders and tradesmen which have many years experience in constructing home extensions, loft conversions and refurbishments in the Hertfordshire / Buckinghamshire area.

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Upgrading your thermostat could provide far greater accuracy in thermostat to boiler communication, preventing energy from being wasted, and saving you money THE DETAILS Ashridge Construction 01442 732152 info@ashridgeconstruction.com www.ashridgeconstruction.com

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GARDEN HHOUSE O U S E && G ARDEN

GOING FOR GREEN Three top tips for introducing green into interior schemes

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ith the ongoing love of botanicals and nature-inspired interiors, green is one of the most coveted colours this season, and rightly so. Victoria Atkin shares some tips on how to introduce this colour crush into the home.

SMALL STATEMENTS “If you’re not ready to paint the walls or invest in a larger piece, try a smaller statement such as an emerald green footstool. Complement this rich jewel hue and add a touch of luxury with plush velvet and metallics.”

PICK PURPOSEFULLY “Use the colour with purpose. Green is in its element when placed in bright south-facing rooms; effortlessly creating an ethereal look. When adding it to a darker, north-facing room or those with a blueish hue, opt for warmer tones with complimentary contrasting colours, such as deep purples, to create a sophisticated feel.”

PICK THE PERFECT SPOT “Add a spot of green to areas where it can best reflect the tones of mother nature such as bay windows. It will draw the eye while seamlessly linking the indoors with the outdoors.

Alternatively, add it to windowless rooms such as bathrooms to lighten and expand the space.” atkinandthyme.co.uk

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“If you’re not ready to paint the walls or invest in a larger piece, try a smaller statement such as an emerald green footstool”

HOUSE & GARDEN

New Premium Housekeeping Business Opens in Gerrards Cross Premium housekeeping business Bright & Beautiful has opened a brand-new franchise that will cover Gerrards Cross and surrounding areas.

We are delighted to be opening Bright & Beautiful in Gerrards Cross and can’t wait to start providing premium housekeeping services to the local community

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ife is so busy these days, and for many people, there are simply not enough hours in the day to balance the demands of family, home and work.

Outsourcing your housekeeping is a way to manage your time more efficiently so you can enjoy doing the things that matter. That’s where Bright & Beautiful Gerrards Cross can help – a premium domestic housekeeping franchise providing ecofriendly cleaning, tidying, laundry and ironing to a consistently high standard.

Covering Gerrards Cross and its surrounding areas, franchise owners Mahani, Dina and Noora are building a successful, fully managed professional housekeeping service that can be tailored to their customer’s specific needs, whether that be on a weekly or fortnightly basis.

As with their housekeeping service, the business makes a point of only using and identifying ecofriendly products and equipment which are kinder to the health of its clients, their families and team members. Launched in March, they have a trusted team of local housekeepers who are carefully selected, referenced, DBS checked and follow strict security procedures to give clients peace of mind, whilst keeping their home safe.

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Bright & Beautiful Gerrards Cross Franchise owner Dina Azhar said, “We are delighted to be opening Bright & Beautiful in Gerrards Cross and can’t wait to start providing premium housekeeping services to the local community. We are also dedicated to employing the best housekeeping talent from across our area and giving them a challenging and stable working environment.”

The Bright & Beautiful network launched in 2007, assisting people across the UK by providing a professional domestic housekeeping service to keep their homes clean and help maintain a healthier and happier living environment. With over 70 locations across the UK, you are never far from a Bright & Beautiful Franchise.

THE DETAILS Bright & Beautiful For any enquiries or to book your clean get in touch with the team by calling 01753 465 472. www.brightandbeautifulhome.com/ locations/gerrards%20cross

HOUSE & GARDEN

CHALFONT CLOCKS

Chalfont Clocks specialises in the unusual, from the extremely rare to the novel, they have built a collection of fine antique clocks at their shop in Little Chalfont to rival any London Dealer.

F

rom one of a kind Regency regulators with solid silver dials to a clock made for exhibition at the Ecole d’Horologerie de Paris in 1905, they have sought out clocks and timepieces that you won’t find anywhere else.

The showroom is a horological Aladdin’s cave of treasures, that the owner, Ashley Streather has an in-depth knowledge of he is happy to share. The history of clocks, their uses and meaning are diverse and fascinating, the story of one of their clocks made in the late 19th Century as a love token with small bronze Putti floating in billowing golden clouds holding the symbols of Cupid and Venus signifying love and fidelity is captivating. The clock still retains its original mercury gilding, a highly poisonous technique long since banned, of mixing 24 carat gold with mercury and burning it to evaporate the mercury leaving the gold behind, is shimmeringly beautiful.

An Ormolu Portico clock from the Napoleonic era made in Paris as possibly one of a kind is particularly evocative, as is a clock from the Officers’ Mess Hall of an RAF base. Made in 1938 it would have ticked away on a mantelpiece throughout The Battle of Britain counting the hours as so many young pilots took to the skies never to return.

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The history of clocks, their uses and meaning are diverse and fascinating

Ashley and his colleagues take delight in showing their customers the smallest details that make these clocks so interesting, there are the marks of previous clock repairs their initials and dates going back hundreds of years in some cases, there is a bracket clock made by Thomas Adams maker to Prince Albert, and any number of smaller carriage clocks and desk clocks, Alarm Clocks By Cartier and a gilded travelling compendium by Angelus made in 1948 in mint condition having never been used.

Chalfont Clocks is a fascinating shop, that not only sells clocks but repairs and restores them, with an open plan workshop at the back of the showroom their Horologists work on repairing antique clocks for customers all over the country, It’s well worth a visit!

THE DETAILS Chalfont Clocks Chalfont Station Road, Little Chalfont, Buckinghamshire HP7 9PN 01494763793 www.chalfontclocks.co.uk

Windows Bi folding doors Panoramic sliding doors Composite doors Aluminium front doors Roof lanterns Flat roof lights Orangeries

NEW SHOWROOM Unity House, Chilton Road, Chesham HP5 2AT Free customer parking

01494 776242 www.window-wise.co.uk

info@window-wise.co.uk

PLOT OR NOT?

If you think your land or property has development potential. Why not give us a call without obligation and in confidence.

We are always on the lookout for land and property with development potential.

Commercial buildings for residential conversion, former public houses, redundant buildings for redevelopment, buildings for conversion or replacement, houses for improvement, large sites on the edge of town, barn conversions, large gardens in residential areas and major regeneration projects.

For more information contact Stephen Donnelly on: 07739 514350 01892 579937

sjd-projects.com steve@sjd-projects.com

Many of our clients retain our services and, in the majority of cases, pay our fees saving property owners significant costs.

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