Buckslife december2015

p01-Online-Cover.qxp 16/12/2015 15:52 Page 1

“Designing shoes is magicians work - a shoe should be visible but sometimes needs to be invisible�

Christian Louboutin

02-FP-Ad-Master.qxp 09/12/2015 11:34 Page 1

p03-Bucks-EdsLetterx3Ads.qxp__ 09/12/2015 15:41 Page 1

FROM THE

EDITOR

AMULET ––– fine handmade jewellery –––

Welcome to our December issue…

PUBLISHED BY FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD

EDITOR Faye Manning EDITOR’S ASSISTANT Katie Miller

SUB EDITOR Alex Lux

FASHION EDITOR Nicholas Peter BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Abi Gardner 07841 871 458

DESIGN/PRODUCTION Jason Daniel ACCOUNT MANAGERS Kathy Manning, Ken Fleet

DIRECTORS Patrick Smith, Rory Smith

© All Rights reserved: All Fish Media Group Ltd magazines are copyright and cannot be reproduced in any form either in part or whole withozut 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.

1B Lower Kings Rd, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire HP4 2AE

01442 879 393 www.amuletsilver.com OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY 9.30 - 5.30 & SUNDAY 11.00 -4.30

DECEMBER 2015

3

05-DP-Ad-Master__ 08/12/2015 16:25 Page 1

05-DP-Ad-Master__ 08/12/2015 16:25 Page 2

EX D

LE

L A NU Y KI AR TC Y H S EN A S LE FO R SA

JA P

IS

05-DP-Ad-Master__ 09/12/2015 11:19 Page 1

05-DP-Ad-Master__ 09/12/2015 11:19 Page 2

D AVON P O RT N a t u r a l l y

D i s t i n c t i v e

I n t e r i o r s

Experience Classic English Elegance

1 Moneyhill Parade, Uxbridge Road, Rickmansworth, H a Hertfordshire n d c r a WD3 f t e7BQ d in

Colchester, England Phone: +44(0)1923 773906 celia@moneyhillinteriors.com m o nd ea yvhoi lnl ipn ot er rt i.ocr os .mc o m

a

2

05-DP-Ad-Master__ 09/12/2015 11:18 Page 1

DESIGN SALE Stores: Finchley Road

I

Notting Hill

I

Tottenham Court Road I

SAVE UP TO Harrods

50%

www.boconcept.co.uk

05-DP-Ad-Master__ 09/12/2015 11:18 Page 2

Enjoy great savings on our furniture and accessories to order, plus make unmissable savings of up to 50% on our clearance and ex-display items.

Visit your nearest BoConcept store now to see these and all the other great offers available. And, don’t forget our friendly and professional design consultants are on hand to offer you our free interior design service to help you make the very best out of your home.

p10-Bucks-Contents.qxp__ 09/12/2015 15:55 Page 1

CONTENTS love local

12

christmas at Waddesdon Manor adult learning St Francis Hospice eatre Royal Windsor crowne Plaza Marlow Henley Design Day e Royal orchestra e Wedding Planner South Bucks Hospice Bp collins Penn Road Studios Norden Farm crowne Plaza Gerrards cross Team Uk Dance

FeaTUReS

42

e Ultimate Gift a Stylish christmas Gift Ideas New Year’s eve e Boast Show christian louboutin

FaSHIoN

54

Trends at andrew Gardner

HealTH & BeaUTY

56

cecily Day Spa love Your Smile call Doctor Now love Your legs Winter Beauty Tips

HoUSe & GaRDeN

62

Hazlemere Windows Julian Graham Design Heritage Windows Your own library Winter Interiors

PRoPeRTY

74

award Winning apartments New Homes Properties abroad

FooD & DRINk e artichoke Pret a Portea

80

30 Years Designing & Installing High Quality Aluminium & UPVC Windows, Doors & Conservatories

For a free design consultation & quotation please call

01494 854266 With the largest showroom in the area, please visit us to view our range of high quality; A Rated Double/Triple Glazed Windows

Conservatories

Aluminium, Composite, UPVC Front Doors

Cladding, Fascias & SofďŹ ts

Bi-Folding, French, Sliding Patio Doors

Orangeries

Bucks Showroom:

Wellington Road, Cressex Business Park, High Wycombe, HP12 3PR

Opening Times:

Mon - Fri, 9am - 5pm

Herts Showroom:

Unit 10, Mundells Industrial Estate, Little Mundells, Welwyn Garden City, AL7 1EW

Opening Times:

Mon - Fri, 9am - 5pm

Saturday, 10am - 4pm

Sunday, 10am - 1pm

Saturday, 10am - 4pm

www.hazlemerewindows.co.uk Life 210 wide x 280 high.indd 1

03/06/2015 17:44:22

p12-Bucks-Waddesdonanor.qxp__ 08/12/2015 11:47 Page 1

LOVE LOCAL

Christmas at Waddesdon Manor

T

his Christmas there is something for everyone at Waddesdon Manor.

Inside, over twenty rooms and interiors are decorated on a “lights and legends” theme, exploring myths from around the world which celebrate light. ere are beautifully adorned real trees, wreaths and a trail for children to enjoy whilst collecting stickers along the way! For the first time, the wine cellars will also be decorated and open throughout the Christmas opening season. ere is much to enjoy in the garden this year too, with a large immersive piece of light art created by Artist Bruce Munro, in the final of his three year Waddesdon residency. …---…SOS features 168 glowing tents with flashing colours and shifting sounds which are interrupted by an urgent Morse code distress signal. Inspired by disaster relief charity ShelterBox, the work is a reminder of people and places throughout the world in need of help. e façade of the Manor itself will feature a dramatic son et lumiere light show, designed by renowned duo Woodroffe Bassett design. Every thirty minutes from 4pm, the ornate architecture will be bathed in rainbow colours, whilst the two giant sculptures by artist Joana Vasconcelos, new for 2015 and in the form of candlesticks made of wine bottles, will also be lit up.

Head for the Stables for more family fun, where children can write their letter to Father Christmas in the beautifully decorated letter-writing room and send it off to the North Pole in the special post box! Or get creative with bauble making sessions at weekends and every day from 19-23 December inclusive. e Midland-Bernese Carter dogs will 1 2 DECEMBER 2015

be waiting to meet visitors on 20 December and 3 January between 12noon and 7pm, and for a small donation you can have you photograph taken with one of these friendly and beautiful dogs.

If you are still looking for those last few gift ideas for Christmas, call into one of the onsite shops, which stock a range of items from inexpensive stocking fillers to stunning individual pieces, unique gifts from local artists and one-off vintage items as well as traditional and contemporary decorations, cards and wrapping paper. And don’t forget to stock up for the big day with something special from the wine shop, which offers an extensive range of Rothschild and guest wines.

Once the festivities are over and the new year has begun, enjoy the stark beauty of the garden in winter by wrapping up warmly for a walk followed by a visit to the Stables Café to warm up with a hot drink and bite to eat. Open at weekends only from 9 January to 20 March. e Waddesdon Christmas season runs until Sunday 3 January, with the property open Wednesdays to Sundays and additionally on 21st, 22nd, 28th and 29th December. Closed 24-26 December. ■ For more information and to book your tickets see www.waddesdon.org.uk.

THE DETAILS

Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire HP18 0JH 01296 653226 www.waddesdon.org.uk

02-FP-Ad-Master.qxp 08/12/2015 16:32 Page 1

O i in Origin lleisur i e

the original indoor ou utdoor pool comp pany

&

you s e h wis e r isu mas e ar L e t n y i s i g r Ori py Ch ful new p s a ha succes a and

p14-Bucks-AdultEducation.qxp__ 08/12/2015 11:18 Page 1

LOVE LOCAL

WINNING WAYS

Something for everyone at Missenden Abbey Adult Learning

W

in a trip to Iran! Well, not quite, but that is where Charlotte Haenlein is heading, after receiving £1000 for her beautiful textile work.

Charlotte won the award, donated by the Quilters Guild, for a piece she completed whilst studying for a City & Guilds Certificate in Patchwork & Quilting, work which also helped her gain her the prestigious City & Guilds Medal for Excellence. e mum of two from Little Milton, near ame, intends to use the money to travel to Iran where she hopes to be inspired by the Persian culture of the country to create more textile work.

As a City & Guilds Centre of Excellence, Missenden Abbey Adult Learning’s students and tutors are used to success. Another recent winner is Gill Booker, who has been a floristry tutor at the Abbey for over ten years. On learning she had been awarded the City & Guilds Tutor’s Medal for Excellence, Gill, who lives with her family in Beaconsfield, said “Flowers have always been my passion and I really love working at the Abbey. It is a real centre of excellence for City & Guilds; the beautiful surroundings seem to bring out the best, most creative work”. City & Guilds courses at Missenden Abbey Adult Learning are designed to offer a flexible learning programme as they take place over six or twelve weekends over one or two years. ere are courses for beginners, intermediate and advanced in floristry, embroidery, machine embroidery and patchwork & quilting.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE However, if you don’t want to make the kind of commitment that Charlotte

1 4 DECEMBER 2015

has, don’t worry. e magic of Missenden Abbey is the variety of one day and weekend courses on offer, suitable for absolutely anyone over 18. Got an iPad, but don’t know what to do with it? Always fancied playing bridge or mah jongg, but don’t know where to start? Need a bit of guidance with your digital camera? Or just fancy a relaxing day tasting wines from around the world? ere is indeed a course for everyone!

From abstract art to encaustic wax, from beadwork to woodcarving and from crochet to sewing and dressmaking, with calligraphy, oils and acrylics, and jewellery and musical instrument making, weaving and felt along the way, to name but a few, art and craft features heavily at Missenden Abbey Adult Learning.

Just a thought: if you are looking for a Christmas present for a loved one, why not give them a gift voucher towards a course – what a perfect way to liven up someone’s 2016!

Tempted? You can find out more about what Missenden Abbey Adult Learning has to offer by calling 01296-383582 or visiting www.missendenabbey-al.co.uk ■

THE DETAILS

Missenden Abbey Adult Learning, Missenden Abbey, Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire HP16 0BD Tel: 01296 383582 www.missendenabbey-al.co.uk

p16-Bucks-StFrancis.qxp__ 08/12/2015 11:20 Page 1

LOVE LOCAL

CHRISTMAS GIVING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

We all know Christmas is a time of giving and what better way to help others this December than buying gifts from a charity shop with a difference?

A

t first glance, if you walked into number twenty in Lower Kings Road, Berkhamsted you would not realise that it was a charity shop where all profits go to support e Hospice of St Francis which cares for people with life-limiting illnesses in Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire.

Since opening nine years ago, the shop has won numerous business awards and has become a destination within the town (and beyond) for design savvy shoppers looking for innovative gifts and home interiors. e shop’s buying team travel all over the country sourcing new and innovative products often going to graduate shows to search out something different. ey are passionate about supporting local artists too. ey stock pictures by Jen Roffe-an artist in St Albans, jewellery by Nadege Honey from Amersham, pottery by Elaine Wells from Chesham alongside sought after Ken Eardley Pottery, True Grace candles and toiletries, Sence jewellery and many more.

Christmas is a special time at number twenty

e team take great pride in their displays of

1 6 DECEMBER 2015

decorations and gifts with the windows being the main focus and they are a regular winner of the Best Dressed window in Berkhamsted. is year key trends are ‘Sparkling silver with iridescent green’, Scandinavian wood and red’, Traditional red and gold’ and a new trend of ‘Warm metallics’ including copper and bronze.

Items proving very popular include hand blown glass baubles and votives, trees, angels, reindeers made from wood and wool plus interesting foliage, garlands and lights.

By buying your gifts and cards from number twenty this Christmas you are effectively ‘giving twice’ – the gift you buy is also a gift to e Hospice of St Francis, supporting the very special care they provide in the local community. ■

THE DETAILS

number twenty 20 Lower Kings Road, Berkhamsted, Herts HP4 2AB 01442 878939 Visit www.stfrancis.org.uk/numbertwenty to see a 360-degree tour of the shop

Shop with us: in centre | at home | on the go

Plus free parking weekdays from 6pm throughout December, come and play this Christmas For details visit intu.co.uk/watford Š 2015 Intu Properties plc

111557 - WAT Life Mag 280x210 LATE NIGHT Ad v2 SA.indd 1

30/11/2015 10:34

p18-Bucks-WindsorTheatre.qxp__ 08/12/2015 11:47 Page 1

LOVE LOCAL

It’s panto time…

T

here has been an unbroken tradition of an independent produced pantomime at eatre Royal Windsor since 1948, and this year, the picturesque Edwardian theatre, located across from Windsor Castle in the heart of the Royal Borough brings audiences of all ages its own take on Cinderella. is year, the spellbinding fairy tale is proving to be the theatre’s best-selling pantomime show ever!

Taking to the stage in Cinderella is the Right Honourable Ann Widdecombe, who stars as the Fairy Godmother alongside former Blue Peter presenter and Miss Northern Ireland Zoe Salmon, who plays the title role.

Singer Jai McDowall, who was crowned the winner of Britain’s Got Talent in 2011 stars as Prince Charming, with Dreamboats and Miniskirts’ leading man Alex Beaumont as his best friend Dandini.

Returning to the eatre Royal are Windsor’s panto favourites Basil Brush as Baron Hardup and comic Kevin Cruise as the lovable Buttons. Regular panto Dame Steven

Blakeley is joined by Emmerdale’s Shaun Prendergast playing the Ugly Step-Sisters, in what promises to be another fun-filled show for all the family. Magic sensation Neil Henry is designing the Fairy Godmothers’ spells to make the show the most magical Christmas treat ever. ■

THE DETAILS

Theatre Royal Windsor 32 Thames Street, Windsor SL4 1PS 01753 863 444 www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk

Shop with us: in centre | at home | on the go

Come and play this Christmas Book now at intu.co.uk/watford Š 2015 Intu Properties plc

111557 - WAT Xmas GROTTO Life Magazine 210x280mm v1 SA.indd 1

30/11/2015 10:28

p20-Bucks-CrownePlaza-M.qxp__ 08/12/2015 11:31 Page 1

LOVE LOCAL

Celebrate at Crowne Plaza MARLOW

C

rowne Plaza Marlow invites you to experience a festive season you’ll remember. From lavish themed nights to New Year’s Eve events, the stunning lakeside venue, set in 5 acres of beautiful countryside, is sure to add a touch of magic to your festivities. ere is something for everyone at Crowne Plaza Marlow, from Festive Lunches and Dinners, Festive Family Lunches with children’s disco, superbly entertaining Tribute Nights and their ever popular ‘Join a Party’ Nights. If you would prefer a private or corporate event, then their Private Parties in the magnificent Winterlake Suite will enable you to theme your Christmas party as spectacularly as you wish, as well as offering a delicious festive menu and disco for up to 280 guests.

THE BEST CHRISTMAS GIFT Imagine having nothing to do on Christmas Day but open presents and relax with family or friends. No Christmas meal preparation, no table setting, no clearing up and the best gift ever - no washing up!

Let our Executive Chef create a sumptuous traditional three course Christmas lunch, while you celebrate in style.

With unlimited Prosecco throughout your meal, we'll be sure to keep your spirits high. To make your day truly memorable, Father Christmas will have a grotto at Crowne Plaza Marlow on Christmas Day, ensuring that all the children receive a little something extra this Christmas.

Don’t have the Boxing Day Blues! After the hectic festive season, sit back, relax and enjoy a sumptuous carvery Boxing Day Lunch, with a glass of Prosecco or Virgin Mary on arrival.

2 0 DECEMBER 2015

SEE OUT THE HOLD AND BRING IN THE NEW For a touch of glamour, come along to the hotel’s New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner, in Winterlake Suite. Enjoy a glass of bubbly on arrival, followed by a sumptuous 4 course dinner, Urban Blue (from sophisticated, stylish, swinging jazz, to upbeat, energetic soul, funk, pop and party classics to pack your dance floor), and disco! For a more informal New Year’s celebration, come along to their ‘agua bar’ New Year’s Eve Disco or New Year’s Eve Buffet in Glaze Restaurant – all with a fabulous firework finale over the lake to see in 2016.

• Christmas Day Lunch - £79.95 per adult; £34.95 per child (3-12 years); 0-2 YEARS OLD FREE • Boxing Day Lunch - £24.95 per adult; £14.95 per child (3-12 years); 0-2 YEARS OLD FREE • New Year’s Eve Gala Ball - £99.95 per person, including Glass of Bubbly, 4 course dinner, live band, disco and firework finale. Over 21s only. Dress code is Black Tie • New Year’s Eve Buffet - £54.95 per person • agua bar’ New Year’s Eve Disco - £25.00 per person.

Strictly over 21s only.

• 2 for 1: Christmas cocktails between 8 and 9pm on New Year’s Eve. ■

THE DETAILS

Crowne Plaza Marlow, Fieldhouse Lane, Marlow, Buckinghamshire SL7 1GJ + 44 (0)1628 496 860 cpmarlow.co.uk

02-FP-Ad-Master.qxp 09/12/2015 14:47 Page 1

8,000 SQUARE FEET OF LUXURY INTERIORS 62)$6 $1' &+$,56 ,17(5,25 '(6,*1 &217(0325$5< )851,785( )$%5,& $1' :$// &29(5,1*6

0,55256 $1' $&&(6625,(6 83+2/67(5(' +($'%2$5'6 /,*+7,1* $1' 58*6 5( 83+2/67(5<

45 LONDON END, OLD BEACONSFIELD, BUCKINGHAMSHIRE HP9 2HP. TEL 01494 676976 WWW.KNIGHTSOFBEACONSFIELD.CO.UK MONDAY - SATURDAY 9AM - 5.30PM. SUNDAY 11AM - 5PM.

p22-Bucks-HenleyDesignDay.qxp__ 08/12/2015 14:27 Page 1

LOVE LOCAL

Henley Design Day C

hristmas is over. You’ve done it all – decorations, food, presents, visitors. You coped – but did your home stand up to the strain?

When you spend more time than usual in the kitchen, and look after guests the concentrated effort can make you wonder about reordering or even extending your living space. Once the decorations are tidied away, these dark evenings are an opportunity to dream and plan the future for your home.

A key date for making a building project into reality will be Saturday 5 March. Henley Design Day is held every Spring in Henley Town Hall. It is the opportunity to meet local architects and other design and building professionals, and to bounce your ideas around with them.

Organised by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), this year’s Henley Design Day will feature at least a dozen architects and their work. Just pop into the Town Hall with some information about your project [see below] and have a no-obligation chat with an architect or three.

Sarah Miller organises the Design Day for the RIBA. As a long-time resident of Henley, she’s very aware that love for the town can often mean that you improve, rather than move your home.

‘Lots of us put up with small-space living just so that we can remain here,’ she says. ‘But even the tiniest building on the tightest of plots can be reordered to make the best use of what you’ve got.

‘Architects are trained to see the possibilities, including in historic buildings. ey are an incredible resource of creative and workable ideas – so come to Henley Design Day to brainstorm ideas for your home.’

Architect Fred Guttfield of Guttfield Architecture is a regular participant in Henley Design Day. FRED SUGGESTS THAT YOU BRING AT LEAST SOME OF THESE WITH YOU TO THE DESIGN DAY: • e agents’ plans, from when you bought the house • Photos of the existing building and where you want to develop 2 2 DECEMBER 2015

Sussex House by Wilkinson King Architects – RIBA National Award winner and shortlisted for RIBA House of the Year 2015. Pictures: Paul Riddle

• Any images of similar projects that you like and buildings that inspire you • An idea of your budget.

Fred also suggests speaking to as many professionals as possible on the day as the event has a wide variety of Chartered RIBA Architects to suit a diverse range of projects, sites and tastes. ■

THE DETAILS

Henley Design Day will be in Henley Town Hall from 10am to 3pm on Saturday 5 March.

Contact sarah.miller@riba.org

DINING LIVING OFFICE

London & Surrey

KITCHENS

020 7253 3206 or 01372 379810

BEDROOMS

fish-media-december 2015.indd 1

www.wharfside.co.uk 30/11/2015 15:34

p24-Bucks-RoyalPhilharmonic.qxp__ 08/12/2015 12:58 Page 1

LOVE LOCAL

Bringing classical music to High Wycombe

2

016 looks to be an exciting year for the world-famous Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. As well as returning to the Wycombe Swan for its seventh season 2016, the Orchestra will celebrate the 70th anniversary since it was founded by Sir omas Beecham.

Bringing together outstanding soloists, conductors and pieces of music, the season at the Wycombe Swan looks set to delight audiences.

Residents of Buckinghamshire will be able to hear world-class classical music performed right on their doorstep when the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra returns to the Wycombe Swan. Fresh from international tours to Geneva, Istanbul and USA, the Orchestra is excited to be bringing classical music to High Wycombe. Managing Director of the RPO Ian Maclay said, ‘It’s wonderful to be returning to the Wycombe Swan during our 70th anniversary year. e audiences are always enormously appreciative and we’re grateful to have such supportive and loyal fans.’

Full of deep emotion the first concert on Tuesday 8 March features pieces from Beethoven, Barber and Sibelius to move and stir you. From Barber’s Adagio for Strings, which has been described as the American anthem of mourning, to the swelling melodies of Beethoven’s Symphony No.7 that featured in the film e King’s Speech, this concert is the perfect open to the 2016 classical season.

Opening with Sibelius’ beautifully pictorial Karelia Suite, the concert on Wednesday 18 May brings together Heroes and Demons with Rachmaninov’s ghostly Rhapsody on a eme of Paganini and Beethoven’s intense Symphony No.3, ‘Eroica’. Joining the orchestra will be the supremely talented pianist Alexandra Dariescu, recently named “one of 30 pianists under 30 destined for a spectacular career” in International Piano Magazine. e Royal Philharmonic Orchestra’s recently appointed Principal Associate Conductor Alexander Shelley will lead the closing concert on Sunday 4 September with a programme including Mendelssohn’s popular Hebrides’ Overture (Fingal’s Cave). e concert all includes one of the most popular works ever written for the piano, Grieg’s Piano Concerto. With its 2 4 DECEMBER 2015

powerful opening that leads into rich, lyrical melodies and passages of show-stopping virtuosity this piece brings the 2016 season to a blazing close.

So rather than battling through commuters, why not relax in the Wycombe Swan Bar & Kitchen before seeing this world-class orchestra in your home town?

DIDYOU KNOW? It was rumoured that the violinist Paganini sold his soul to the devil to achieve his extraordinary talent. His theme that inspired Rachmaninov has also inspired Brahms and Andrew Lloyd Webber.

DIDYOU KNOW? Beethoven originally dedicated his 3rd Symphony to Napoleon Bonaparte before crossing it out on the manuscript.

DIDYOU KNOW? Barber’s Adagio for Strings has been voted as the saddest piece of classical music ever written and was played at the funerals of Franklin D. Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, Albert Einstein and Princess Grace of Monaco. ■

THE DETAILS

Wycombe Swan, St. Mary Street, High Wycombe, HP11 2XE Ticket Office: 01494 512 000 www.wycombeswan.co.uk

p26-Bucks-BucksGC.qxp__ 08/12/2015 11:17 Page 1

Julie Anne Images

LOVE LOCAL

...huge thank you for all of your hard work...everything went so well...venue looked gorgeous...couldn't have been a more wonderful day.

The

wedding planner 1. SCRAPBOOK - Start a wedding planning folder. You can start to fill it with ideas of colour schemes, flower arrangements you love and bridal gowns/bridesmaid dresses.

Use it as a scrapbook of ideas that you can later develop for your own wedding day. You will then use this folder to file any important documents you may have like invoices and contracts. Have a section for each of your suppliers, your venue, legal documentation/wedding licence, guests list (and eventually RSVP’s.)

2. VENUE - First....reserve your date! Choose a month and day of the week that you would prefer. Remember to take in to account public holidays. is is also likely to be subject to the availability at your desired venue. Short list 3 venues that you like and go for a show around if you haven’t done so already. Make sure to ask important questions like ‘what is the capacity of each room’, ‘would it be for exclusive hire to you’, ‘do they offer discounts during certain times of the year or on Friday/Sundays?’ Once you have decided on a date, ask the venue if they can hold it for you. Visit your favourite venue again and then take a wonder by yourselves.

As soon as you have decided secure the booking with a deposit/contract...send a “Save e Date” to your guests or the invitations.

3. SUPPLIERS - By now you may have found some suppliers you may wish to use through your ‘scrap booking.’

However, it is still always a good idea to visit wedding shows and fayres. Even if only to give you more ideas. Try to visit wedding shows in different locations, you may find you encounter the same suppliers at wedding shows in close proximity to each other. Extending your search will give you more variety. It is a good idea to decide and book your suppliers at this stage. Like venues, they get booked up very 2 6 DECEMBER 2015

Claire and Barrie” 25th April 2015

quickly. First make sure to book your key supplier- florist, cake maker, stationary (invites, name cards, tables plans, wedding favours,) band or DJ. Next start to think about the extra things that can make your day even more special; extra decorations, chair covers, toastmaster, photobooth, sweet tables/buffets, staging and lighting, fireworks, ice carvings...

I could go on forever!

4. INVITES - By now you will be a few months away from your wedding. If you sent “Save e Date” cards, you may now wish to send the full invitation with times, locations, local hotels etc.

5. TIMELINE - At this point you can start to put together a timeline for the day. e venue is likely to have one as well so it is a good idea to make sure both itineraries match. Make sure to include hair and makeup, travel time to the wedding and venue, arrival and set up times from all suppliers, arrival times for guests, groomsmen, bridal party. Make to allow enough time for photographs before your meal. ■ Make sure to read next month’s article for the final 5 top wedding planning tips...

BETHAN EDMONDSON

My name is Bethan Edmondson and I am the wedding co-ordinator at Buckinghamshire Golf Club. I am there to help make sure all your needs are met to make your special day truly memorable. If you have any questions regarding weddings at Buckinghamshire Golf Club or would like to come for a look around please feel free to call on 01895 835 777 or email bethan.edmondson@buckinghamshiregc.co.uk THE DETAILS

Buckinghamshire Golf Club Denham Court Drive, Denham, Buckinghamshire UB9 5PG Tel: 01895 835 777 www.buckinghamshiregc.com

p27-Bucks-Ad-AndrewGardner.qxp__ 08/12/2015 16:41 Page 1

Canali Paul & Shark Fynch Hatton Robert Graham Brax Bugatti Eton Gant Barker Dubarry Stemar Crockett & Jones

The Tanyard, Tring Road, Wendover, Bucks, HP22 6ND t: 01296 625488 e: men@andrewgardner.co.uk

p28-Bucks-SouthBucksHospice.qxp__ 08/12/2015 15:29 Page 1

LOVE LOCAL

Nurses dig in to celebrate start of work on new Community Hospice

N

urses from South Bucks Hospice have celebrated the start of work at their new £4.7m centre.

A team from the Hospice gathered at the end of 2015 at the site in Totteridge, High Wycombe, to mark the fact that Jarvis Contracting Ltd has begun construction.

Even rain didn't interrupt the upbeat mood as they marked the dawn of a new era. e state-of-the-art building will be completed in Spring 2017. e new Community Hospice will include more treatment rooms in addition to an orangery which will support activities including indoor gardening. ere will be two additional counselling rooms as well as a dedicated drop-in centre for young adults.

Jo Woolf, Chief Executive Officer, explained: "I am appealing to the public to keep supporting us because together we can make the world a kinder, fairer and more compassionate place!"

Meanwhile, the Hospice is inviting all supporters to join in a walk around the Dashwood estate in West Wycombe for Snowdrop Sunday between 11.30-4pm on

February 21. ere will be an opportunity to plant snowdrops and sample tea and cakes. ■

THE DETAILS

For information on how to donate or to join in the Snowdrop Sunday walk, go to www.sbh.org.uk or call 01494 464050.

^ŶŽǁĚƌŽƉ ^ƵŶĚĂLJ ϮϭƐƚ &ĞďƌƵĂƌLJ ϮϬϭϲ ϭϭ͗ϯϬ ĂŵͶϰ͗ϬϬƉŵ ĂƐŚǁŽŽĚ ƐƚĂƚĞ tĞƐƚ tLJĐŽŵďĞ WĂƌŬ ,Wϭϰ ϯ

^ŽƵƚŚ ƵĐŬƐ ,ŽƐƉŝĐĞ ĸƌŵŝŶŐ ůŝĨĞ ǁŝƚŚ ƉĂůůŝĂƟǀĞ ĐĂƌĞ

ǁǁǁ͘ƐďŚ͘ŽƌŐ͘ƵŬ

ZĞŐŝƐƚĞƌĞĚ ŚĂƌŝƚLJ EŽ͘ ϭϭϮϴϴϴϭ

02-FP-Ad-Master.qxp 08/12/2015 16:29 Page 1

p30-Bucks-BPCollins.qxp__ 08/12/2015 15:33 Page 1

LOVE LOCAL

Why a ‘loan’ to get on the housing ladder may become a gift

W

ith Gerrards Cross property prices among the highest in the county, it’s increasingly difficult for young people to get onto the housing ladder without help from their parents.

Property lawyer Martina Razaq says: “ere’s no doubt that we’re seeing plenty more parents or grandparents wanting to help out financially, but it’s important for both parties to know that the money may have to be treated as a gift in certain circumstances, for example, where the buyer is also getting financial help from a third party mortgage provider. “is means those making the generous gesture have no legal right to call for its return in the future. Of course, that can have implications if, for example, the money is ‘given’ to a son or daughter to buy a property with a partner and they then split up and the house has to be sold."

If a couple is purchasing, one option, she says, is to draw up a Declaration of Trust, which can help to

ensure the money stays within the donor’s family.

And, although previously parents could sometimes insist on restrictions on the property that preclude its sale without their consent or a legal charge, she says in today’s market it’s something that the majority of lenders would frown upon and would not permit under their mortgage conditions.

“Money-laundering regulations and the financial crisis that started in 2007 means lenders are now extremely stringent in having to verify where funds come from, who is funding the purchase and who has an interest in the property, so our recommendation is to be open from the outset to avoid any last minute delays or hitches.” ■

THE DETAILS

For advice from Martina and the property team at B P Collins LLP, please call 01753 279021 or email resproperty@bpcollins.co.uk

Everything is going to be OK Legal advice for you and your family.

bpcollins.co.uk | 01753 889995

KBS-FP__ 11/06/2015 14:00 Page 1

Affordable luxury, quality & styleâ&#x20AC;Ś

01494 677727 43-45 Mayflower Way, Beaconsfield, Bucks HP9 1UG

KBS kitchenbedroomstudios

www.kbstudios.co.uk

p32-Bucks-PennRoadStudios.qxp__ 09/12/2015 11:04 Page 1

love loCal

PENN ROAD STUDIOS J

acqueline Ferguson owns Penn Road Studio her own well appointed photographic studio in Beaconsfield.

Working with her clients during the shoot itself she offers advice on their posture, expression and appearance. A patient, friendly and helpful approach underlines her integrity and professionalism whilst showing images on the back of the camera provides confidence during the creative process.

A career path taking her around the world, yet for many years rooted in London’s Mayfair has resulted in a stellar client list including Her Majesty the Queen, the Duke of Edinburgh, the King of Jordan, the Duchess of Cornwall, the Duke of Kent and the Dowager Viscountess Lady Rothermere. e King of Jordan, being the Commander-in Chief of the Light Dragoons was guest of honor for their tercentenary celebrations in Mayfair last month. Jacqueline was entrusted to document this once in a lifetime event. Just a short while ago e Duke of Edinburgh showed himself to be particularly enamored by Jacqueline charms, posing away to secure some wonderful shots as the usually notoriously short tempered Royal offered smiles all afternoon during a lunch party to commemorate the hundredth anniversary of the battle of Gallipoli.

If you were to draw a straight line between Buckingham Palace and Beaconsfield many photography businesses would appear on that path so it really is wonderful that they should reach out to her in her Beaconsfield studio and acknowledge her as the safe pair of hands that they clearly consider her to be. She is honored to be trusted by such esteemed clients, and so regularly too.

A more recent

3 2 DECEMBER 2015

commission involved documenting the 21st birthday celebrations of London’s famous ROAR television talent agency which resulted in Lorraine Kelly, Karren Brady, Myleen Klass, Michelle Collins, eresa May, Christopher Biggins, Michelle Mone, Kelly Hoppen and Vanessa Feltz receiving Jacqueline Ferguson’s attention. ese images can be viewed by liking the Penn Road Studio facebook page.

Jacqueline’s not so secret passion is for her faithful shih-tzu dog Monte, results in amazing dog photography creating many signature images.

Beyond this she has proven herself to be a creative force when documenting the day in the life of a business, creating a portfolio of well demonstrated products or showing professionals practicing their trade. Yet her most popular studio request is from families wishing to secure pleasing images of themselves in their various forms. Across the spectrum of photographic disciplines Jacqueline has become the renowned South Buckinghamshire photographer. ■

the detailS

Penn Road Studio in the new town of Beaconsfield is open every day by appointment only.

Contact Jacqueline Ferguson to discuss her Christmas studio promotion on 01494 956944.

Ja nu S ar ale y

JulianGraham-Dec15.qxp__ 08/12/2015 16:28 Page 1

From Dreams to Reality Come and visit us to discover the discounts offered throughout the showroom Terms & Conditions apply. Ask in showroom for full details.

325 Amersham Road, Hazlemere, Buckinghamshire, HP15 7PX Phone: 01494 718585 Email: info@jgkab.co.uk Web: www.jgkab.co.uk

p34-Bucks-NordenFarm.qxp__ 08/12/2015 11:09 Page 1

LOVE LOCAL

A classical start to the New Year in Maidenhead N

orden Farm Centre for the Arts will be celebrating the start of 2016 with a New Year’s Day Concert on Friday 1 January at 7.30pm. Tickets are £16 (£14.50 conc) (£5 under 16s). e St John’s Chamber Players present this annual concert, now in its fifteenth year, to ring in the New Year with a feast of Baroque music. e Players will be joined by internationally acclaimed opera singer Miriam Allan. Miriam has sung with leading orchestras across the world, including the Auckland Philharmonia, Concerto Copenhagen and the Australian Chamber Orchestra. She made her debut at Glyndebourne in 2009’s Fairy Queen, before touring with the production to Paris, Caen and New York. e programme for the concert begins and ends with outstanding concertos by Bach; the Concerto in D minor for 2 violins and Brandenburg Concerto No.4. ey will 3 4 DECEMBER 2015

also be performing Vivaldi’s Cello Concerto in C, virtuosic arias from Handel, as well as a witty suite by Telemann, inspired

by Don Quixote, which is rarely performed.

Nigel Wilkinson will be conducting the players, as well as performing on the harpsichord.

Nigel was a senior producer at BBC Radio 3 for many years. He is also a music examiner and teacher.

Start the New Year with an inspiring classical musical concert featuring world class performers. ■

THE DETAILS

www.miriamallan.com/

Tickets are available from the Box Office on 01628 788997 or online at www.nordenfarm.org

02-FP-Ad-Master.qxp 08/12/2015 16:23 Page 1

What caught your eye first, the kitchen or the price?

Made in the UK

All these Shaker Aubergine and Winter White kitchen units for just *

ÂŁ5,231

Affordable luxury.

Milton Keynes

Hemel Hempstead

Oxford

Grafton Court, MK6 1AJ

Apsley Mill Park, HP3 9QN

Botley Road Park, OX2 0HA

55 SHOWROOMS NATIONWIDE

visit wrenkitchens.com

* Priced kitchen is for units only and does not include the price of any handles, worktops, appliances, sink, tap, props, accessories or small worktop appliances. Must be purchased in the exact configuration as offered by Wren. No substitutions or alterations can be made. One per customer.

p60-Bucks-AshfordInteriors.qxp__ 13/10/2015 11:46 Page 2

THINKING OF REPLACING YOUR KITCHEN, BEDROOM OR HOME OFFICE? Visit our Large Showrooms for Inspiration and to book your FREE design Visit 85 Church Road Ashford, Middx TW15 2PE Tel: 01784 245964

1-2 The Parade, The Broadway Farnham Common Bucks SL2 3QJ Tel: 01753 642362

www.ashfordinteriors.co.uk

p37-Bucks-CrownePlaza.qxp__ 08/12/2015 15:34 Page 1

LOVE LOCAL

The Bellhouse Hotel is reborn: introducing

CROWNE PLAZA Gerrards cross

DECEMBER 2015 3 7

p37-Bucks-CrownePlaza.qxp__ 08/12/2015 15:34 Page 2

S

EPTEMBER 2015, BUCKINGHAMSHIRE. Following a £20m complete top to toe refurbishment e Bellhouse Hotel will officially open its doors as Crowne Plaza Gerrards Cross from the ursday 24th September.

Having been inaugurated into the Crowne Plaza portfolio the hotel promises to deliver the quality and trusted service synonymous with the Crowne Plaza brand, which is about putting its guests needs first and setting guests up for a successful stay, but with a very distinct identity.

Described as “a celebration of both town & country” the 138-bedroomed four-star hotel, spa and events centre is set at the base of the Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Beauty and is just 17mins1 from the centre of London providing the ideal weekend retreat for city dwellers seeking an escape, or business trip base.

The Crowne Plaza Gerrards Cross boasts an impressive list of individual parts adding up to one unforgettable experience.

3 8 DECEMBER 2015

In-keeping with the hotel’s rich automotive history, BMW Group subsidiary Designworks were called upon to devise innovation principles for the extensive meeting and events space; a first for a branded hotel. Providing the perfect venue for weddings, conferences or events, this 6500sqm ‘styled with substance’ space features two large conference and banqueting spaces seating up to 350 and 260 persons respectively, 6 meeting rooms, Creative Attic, breakout bar and landscaped garden.

1269; the year the neighbouring town of Beaconsfield was first given a charter allowing an annual market for trading livestock, also provides the name and inspiration for the hotel’s destination bar and restaurant.

1269 Restaurant Bar & Grill specialises in livestock, game and butcher-style preparation. Signature dishes created by award-winning Head Chef Dean Crews, previously of the Charing Cross Hotel, include Josper roasted Buccleuch Estate Beef, aged for 28 days in 1269’s in-house ageing room and salad of Denham Wood Pigeon, choucroute, parsnip and speck ham. Designed by

p37-Bucks-CrownePlaza.qxp__ 08/12/2015 15:34 Page 3

LOVE LOCAL

SuperFutures, the team behind Chotto Matte and Barrafina, the statement pieces of the restaurant will be a freshly hung meat display, a Whisky vault and a bourbon focused drinks menu to rival any London bar.

Wave Spa and Wellness Centre offers a relaxing and rejuvenating retreat with 15m pool, sauna, steam room and 5 treatment rooms including a Rasul™ Mud erapy room. An array of ESPA and Jessica treatments for men, women and mums-to-be are available, whilst Wave’s expert team of fitness instructors and nutritionists will support, motivate and create the perfect personalised plan for you.

If you’re looking for more high-energy activity the state-of-the-art Precor gym and two exercise suites providing classes from Spinning and Pilates to the brand new yoga concept; Yin & Yang Yoga, will put you through your paces. Re-energise and cleanse from the inside out at Wave Juice Bar where the menu is based on the philosophy of healthy, nutritious and balanced tastes offering the “best of what nature has”. Choose from the finest hand-crafted organic juices, freshly made immune

boosting shots and energy rich food. e 138 bedrooms are spacious with contemporary furnishings and luxury touches such as complimentary mini bars, Espa toiletries and LED Smart TVs. e décor contrasts bright blocks of uplifting orange with warm walnut wood, and crisp, white inviting bed linen with classic, stylish textured herringbone throws.

Rooms are available from £140 for a standard double up to a Junior Suite.

Most of all the hotel offers a discretion of service, and attention to detail that pre-empts requests, considers every eventuality and serves without distraction – a truly distinctive offering. ■

THE DETAILS

Crowne Plaza Gerrards Cross, Oxford Road, South Bucks HP9 2XE 01753 893891 www.cp-gerrardscross.co.uk

DECEMBER 2015 3 9

p40-Bucks-MarlowDance.qxp__ 08/12/2015 11:02 Page 1

LOVE LOCAL

Congratulations to Team UK! Team UK have achieved the best result for UK Cheerleading since we started competing at the Cheerleading World Championships in 2001

T

he Kobika Starlites, a local cheerleading squad who train in High Wycombe and Marlow have just returned from an amazing trip to Berlin where they competed as part of Team UK in the Senior Cheer Dance category against the very best in the world. At their first world championships they achieved a fantastic 4th place and are confident that with hard work and determination they will be invited in 2 years to compete again and go for gold in Japan!

16 year old Laura Knight, one of the youngest on the squad writes “We first started choreographing our cheer dance routine for the nationals in March earlier this year, and never imagined where it would take us! rilled to have won first place we were presented with the outstanding opportunity to take the routine to Europeans in Croatia. e next few weeks were the hardest for me personally, as we had to re-audition for the squad, due to age restrictions at Europeans, and the routine then had to be adapted to add in new skills and retaught to new members in a matter of weeks.

4 0 DECEMBER 2015

However it was all worth it in the end, as we had an amazing time in Croatia. We then continued to develop the routine and push ourselves further to achieve 4th place at the worlds in Berlin. Eleven months on from when we first started, and I never thought I'd still be rehearsing to the same two and half minute soundtrack. e routine has changed a lot since we began, and it has grown with us as we progressed from national level to world level! e world cheerleading championships in Berlin were an incredible experience, and one I never thought to have! I couldn't be prouder or more grateful to have been a part of the routine from start to finish”. ■

THE DETAILS

The Kobika Starlites are holding Senior Cheer Dance Auditions on Friday 11th December 2015.

You must be 16 and have a strong jazz/contemporary dance or cheer dance background.

If you are interested please contact them at info@kobikadance.co.uk or call 07825 336827

p41-Bucks-Ad-Spacers.qxp__ 08/12/2015 13:53 Page 1

An enormous selection of tiles and flooring within impressive showrooms both with a creative in-house design service. Our friendly knowledgeable and helpful staff will provide for all your wall and flooring requirements. Call us with details of your project or go to:

www.spacers-uk.com

Wood Flooring

Tiles and Bathrooms

Porcelain Floor Tiles

Amtico & Karndean

Natural Stone

CHRISTMAS SALE STARTS NOW UNTIL THE END OF JANUARY (Excluding special offers)

1A Brickwall Lane, Ruislip, Middlesex, HA4 8JR â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 01895 621 651 18 King Street, Maidenhead, Berkshire SL6 1EF - 01628 624 546

info@spacers-uk.com

p42-Bucks-RegentStreet.qxp__ 09/12/2015 14:43 Page 1

FEATURE

Givve someone...

The Ulttimate Lifestyle f y hi Ch i Experienc p ce this Christmas

on L London’ d ’s Mile Mil off S Style l with i haR Regent S Street Gift Card

I

f you are struggling to find that perfect gifft, t, then it’s time tiime you took advantage of the Regent Street Gifftt Card, which gives access to the verry best that The Mile of Style has to offer. Regent Sttreet is one of the capital’s most famous thoroughfares. Home to more ore than 75 international flagship stores such as Liberrty tyy, Apple, Banana Rep public, Hamleys and Anthropologie; Regent Street is London’s ultimate shopping and lifestyle destination.

Every year over 70 million visitors go to shop as well as relax and dine within the stylish cafes, restaurants and bars located along Regent Street such as Aqua and Hawksmoor, and within the Regent Street food quarters t of Heddon Street and Swallow Street such as Bentley’s, Veeraswamyy, Gaucho, Momo, Aubaine u and The ICE BAR London.

The Regent Street Gifftt Card is accepted in more than 100 outlets. You You can gifftt anything from £10 to £500, so you can let that someone special treat themselves in Regent Street’s stellar cast of premium fashion and lifestyle brands. From Kiko to Burberryy and everrything ything in between, it’s a feast of sartorial spleendour.

Regent Street London has recently launched a brand new w,, fully fully responsive update to its fashion and lifestyle website, ReegentStreetOnline.com. The new site is a stylish insider’s guide to the best of fashion, shopp ping, and dining establishments, as well asthe new go-to places on Regen nt Street. The editorially-led Zeitgeist section is the place to pick up news, revi views, and inspiration from some of the world’s leading fashion and lifestyle lifestyl yle brands. brands The editorial content features a monthly fashion edit highlighting must-have items,

4 2 DECEMBER 2015

forthcoming trends and statement pieces. Each article is design ned to both guide and optimise the shopping and lifestyle experience in Regent gent Street.

Regentstreetonline.com is integrated with social media throughout hout every page, which enables users to interact immediately with Regent Street’s social ocial media platforms by following @Regen ntStreetW1 and using #R RegentStreet, #H HeddonStreet, #RegentStreetQuadrant.

Simple to navigate usingg any device, it has a streamlined scroll barr, and stylish imagerry for optimum viewing, wing, ideal for on-the-go shoppers and diners iners who desire instant information..

To purchase your card, and for inspiration on what to spend end your Regent Street Gifftt Card on n head to ReegentStreetOnline.com and check out the Christmas Gifftt Guides. es.

While you are shopping ping on Regent Street, keep up to date with the latest offers and deals on Regent ent Street by downloading the Regent Street App, which has just launched on Android. The app delivers exclusive personalised ersonalised content to shoppers during their visit to the Mile of Style. The Regent Street app utilises thee world’s largest outdoor iBeacon implementation lementation bringing you the bestt of personalised shopping.

THE DET TAILS AILS For more inffor ormationn visit the website at www.RegentStrreetOnline Online.com

6IKIRX7XVIIX3J½GMEP RegentStreetW1 #RegentStreet RegentStreetW1 RegentStreetW1 RegentStreetW1 RegentStreetTV 6IKIRX7XVIIX3RPMRI 6IKIRX7XVIIX3RPMRI

02-FP-Ad-Master.qxp 08/12/2015 16:34 Page 1

p44-Bucks-ArtClass.qxp__ 09/12/2015 14:41 Page 1

FEATURE

S

For a stylish, luxurious Christmas

Bond Street

ince its foundation in 1700, Bond Street has been the playground of society’s wealthiest most stylish and influential people. Past residents of the street include Admiral Horatio Nelson and Lady Emma Hamilton as well as a number of renowned authors and poets. Today, over 300 years on, Bond Street remains a much loved destination for celebrities, socialites and the international jet set.

Bond Street is formed of New and Old Bond Street - New Bond Street links to Oxford Street at the northern end and to Old Bond Street at the southern end, which joins Piccadilly.

Bond Street marries fashion, jewellery and art with a uniquely exclusive flair. For serious fashionistas, this street is the place to be seen since it boasts one of the finest concentrations of designer shops in the world. Bond Street is also home to the auction houses Sotheby’s and Bonhams and is the world’s leading destination for art collectors. If you are a lover of diamonds and jewellery, then Old Bond Street is for you as it houses the greatest density of fine jewellers anywhere in the world

The street offers an unrivalled mix of traditional elegance and modern luxury. It is home to some of the world’s most prestigious retailers including Armani, Bulgari, Burberry, Chanel, Chopard, Dolce & Gabbana, Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Mulberry, Prada, Ralph Lauren to name just a few.

4 4 DECEMBER 2015

including Tiffany, Cartier, Graff, De Beers and Harry Winston.

A stylish and chic Christmas greets your arrival thanks to the Bond Street Christmas lights, as they add their festive glow to the boutiques and designer stores lining this fashionable part of Mayfair. The stores are open until late in the run up to Christmas, so take a trip to Bond Street and get all your Christmas shopping done under what are arguably the West End’s most impressive Christmas lights.

There are plans underway for Bond Street to undergo a multimillion pound overhaul to compete with the major luxury shopping districts of New York, Paris and Hong Kong. New and Old Bond Street will receive their biggest makeover in more than 30 years as part of the Bond Street Development Plan.

THE DETAILS For more information visit www.bondstreet.co.uk

Ad_Master__ 17/10/2013 17:34 Page 1

kitchenart bespoke furniture

Design and Install Beautiful Kitchens Over 27 years at our Farnham Common Showroom 5-6 THE CENTRE

BEACONSFIELD ROAD

T. 01753 646631

FARNHAM COMMON

BUCKINGHAMSHIRE

KITCHENARTONLINE.CO.UK

SL2 3QQ

p46-Bucks-ChristmasGifts.qxp__ 09/12/2015 13:44 Page 1

FEATURE

Get your hands on the most prized possession in cricket with the replica Ashes Urn. Commissioned by MCC and exclusively available from Lord’s, this fine bone china replica has been crafted and hand-decorated in Staffordshire, England. www.lords.org/ashesurn (£50.00)

This unique presentation boxed set has been created to provide the perfect memento for supporters of international cricket. It contains 10 souvenir cricket balls, all emblazoned with the national flag of each of the current Test playing nations.

If you’re not looking for the whole set, each individual ball is available to purchase too. www.lords.org/ presentationset (£175.00)

4 6 DECEMBER 2015

CHRISTMAS GIFTS FROM

LORD’S Looking for a unique gift for the cricket-lover in your life? Look no further! To celebrate England regaining the Ashes this summer, the official Lord’s store is offering a unique range of must have gifts to mark a brilliant year of cricket! From exclusive gifts to stocking fillers, there is something for everyone. The official Lord’s store’s exclusive range of must-have gifts is the perfect way to mark a memorable cricketing year.

2

Please visit shop.lords.org to view our full range.

1

This full practice set is perfect for any young and aspiring cricketers. The set contains two sets of stumps, two bats and a ball and is ideal for play and practice anywhere. www.lords.org/ practiceset (£25.00)

3

p47-Bucks-Ad-Various.qxp__ 08/12/2015 17:08 Page 1

CELEBRATE IN STYLE Enjoy the festive season with Crowne Plaza Marlow Whatever type of celebration you have in mind for the festive season, we offer it at Crowne Plaza Marlow. From Festive Lunches to Christmas Day and Boxing Day Lunch, Festive Family Events with children’s discos, superbly entertaining Tribute Nights and our ever popular ‘Join a Party’ Nights.

For a night of glitz and glamour, we cordially invite you to attend our New Year’s Eve Gala Ball, or for a more informal New Year’s celebration, come along to our New Year’s Eve Buffet or ‘agua bar’ New Year’s Eve Disco, all with a stunning firework finale over the lake at midnight to see in 2016!

TO ADD A TOUCH OF MAGIC TO YOUR FESTIVITIES, BOOK ONLINE AT WWW.CPMARLOW.CO.UK CALL 01628 496 860 OR EMAIL CHRISTMAS@CPMARLOW.CO.UK Crowne Plaza Marlow Fieldhouse Lane, Marlow, Buckinghamshire, SL7 1GJ T: + 44 (0)1628 496 860 E: christmas@cpmarlow.co.uk | W: cpmarlow.co.uk Postcode for Sat Nav: SL7 1LU

15:45

p48-Bucks-NewYearsEve.qxp__ 09/12/2015 15:08 Page 1

FEATURE

Celebrate New Year’s Eve with a bang

31st Decem ber 2015

Celebrate New Year’s Eve and welcome 2016 with a bang at the London New Year’s Eve 2015 Fireworks, an event presented by the Mayor of London.

T

his spectacular event takes place on the River Thames, opposite the Houses of Parliament. Get ready for one of the most spectacular celebrations of its kind in the world. Set against the capital’s unique skyline, it really is a sight to behold.

This year’s event will be ticketed again, which means you must have a ticket to come to the display. The celebrations were ticketed for the first time last year to make sure the event stays a safe and fun night for all.

Each year around 250,000 people come and watch the exciting fireworks display on the banks of the Thames. The night skies will be a blaze of light and colour at midnight on New Year’s Eve with a display of stunning pyrotechnics from the London Eye on the famous South Bank.

As the clock strikes 12, Big Ben’s famous ‘bongs’ will be relayed across the viewing areas, before the UK’s biggest annual fireworks display takes place to a specially created musical soundtrack. Once the fireworks come to an end, join together with friends and strangers alike for a rendition of Auld Lang Syne.

The celebrations carry on until 12:45am with a live DJ set. Stay to the end and you’ll find it easier getting out of the viewing areas for your journey home.

Boris Johnson says “With so much to see and do, London is one of the most exciting places to enjoy the festive season and to bring in the New

4 8 DECEMBER 2015

Year. Ours is a city of dynamism, exuberance and soaring ambition, which is encapsulated in the always magnificent fireworks display that heralds another exciting twelve months in the life of our great capital.”

Very large crowds are expected on the night with limited viewing areas, so if you’d rather watch the spectacular from the comfort of your own home the fireworks will be shown live on BBC1.

Lots of pubs and clubs are also ticketed entry on the night, so if you haven’t booked in advance it may be hard to find somewhere to enjoy the evening. Before deciding to head out, consider how long you are prepared to stand outside waiting for the display to start, especially in the cold, and then how long it will take to get home.

Travel is free on all TfL journeys from 11:45pm on New Year’s Eve until 4:30am on New Year’s Day this includes bus, tube, tram, DLR and London Overground services.

There will be major changes to regular tube and train services and you may have to use different routes or station entrances with specific queuing arrangements. Do plan your journey both to and from the event and follow directions from stewards, police or rail and underground staff on the night.

THE DETAILS For more information please visit www.london.gov.uk

p49-Bucks-Ad-Various.qxp__ 08/12/2015 17:07 Page 1

b

Discover Gliding

Experience the purest most natural way to fly

A high flying Christmas Gift Trial Lessons I Courses I PPL Conversions I Group Events 2 &5 Day weekday courses

Visit Website for Christmas Offers

I

A great week’s holiday call office for course details or visit website

Booker Gliding Club

Wycombe Air Park Marlow Bucks SL7 3DP

t 01494 442501

www.bookergliding.co.uk

• • • • • •

Dent Removal Bodywork Repairs Bumper Scuffs Scratch Repairs Kerbed Alloys Interior & Trim

Repairs often less than your Insurance excess Before

After

Tel: 0800 018 8899 www.dentfix.co.uk

p50-Bucks-BoatShow.qxp__ 09/12/2015 17:07 Page 1

A sail through time T

at London Boat Show 2016

he London Boat Show 2016 is inviting visitors to discover the best of boating, from the ground-breaking innovations of the 60’s to the sailing champions of tomorrow, all to be showcased at the newest attractions and iconic marine brands showcased at ExCeL London during 8-17 January.

For 2016, organisers are taking advantage of the hundreds of marine innovators, adventurers and rising sporting stars who visit and exhibit at the London Boat Show each year with its new feature, ‘The London Boat Show Theatre’. A dedicated area for personalities to share their inspiring stories and expert knowledge through interactive talks and panel shows, visitors can expect a mixture of ‘A Question of Sport’, ‘Mock the Week’ and ‘Mastermind’.

The ‘Mediterranean Bay’ will put boating skills to the test live at the Show. The purpose-built pool will host water seminars on close quarters boat handling, sail reefing and capsize drills.

At the heart of Europe’s most pioneering city, we are celebrating the rich heritage of British boating at this iconic event.Visitors will be taken on a journey of discovery, from reliving the great moments of our time to technologies of the future which will revolutionise the way we get out on the water.

MURRAY ELLIS, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF BRITISH MARINE BOAT SHOWS

5 0 DECEMBER 2015

8th-17th January 2016, ExCeL London

Visitors also have the opportunity to trial an array of watersports, from favourite’s including water-walking and kayaking to the latest must-have toys, including the Seabob sourced by Landau UK. With over 500,000 litres of water surrounded by faux villas and cafes, this attraction will be a destination in its own right.

Alongside today’s cutting-edge technology, the Show celebrates the innovations of yesteryear with its attraction, the ‘60’s Revival’. Showcasing the best of the 1960’s, both boating and culturally, visitors will be transported back to an era which saw the first man walk on the moon, The Beatles, the arrival of the Mirror Dinghy and Sir Francis Chichester becoming the first person to sail singlehanded around the world.

The 2016 Show will also be home to the world launch of the exciting Sunseeker 131 and will be welcoming Land Rover BAR who will take an attraction space at the Show to showcase their expertise and the bid to bring the America’s Cup back home.

p50-Bucks-BoatShow.qxp__ 09/12/2015 17:07 Page 2

FEATURE

Plus, with the Showâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new layout providing the perfect platform to showcase the finest luxury yachts to the latest in cutting-edge electronics, from over 300 of the leading British and international companies, visitors can expect to witness more than 70 boats and products make their debut at the forthcoming event. As well as seeing new and returning brands for 2016 including Suzuki GB, Four Winns, Arthur Beale and Lewmar.

TICKETS Advance tickets to London Boat Show start from ÂŁ10, with two children under the age of 15 going free with each adult.

OPENING HOURS: Friday 8th - Wednesday 13th January open 10.00-18.00 daily, Thursday 14th January open 10.00-20.00 (late night opening) Friday 15th - Sunday 17th January open 10.00-18.00 daily.

From Friday 8th to Sunday 10th January 2016, a ticket holder to the London Boat Show will also be allowed entry to The Telegraph Cruise Show and The Telegraph Travel Show for free.

THE DETAILS To purchase tickets and for further information visit www.londonboatshow.com DECEMBER 2015

51

p52-Bucks-Louboutin.qxp__ 09/12/2015 15:11 Page 1

FEATURE

“Designing Designing g g sh hoes is magicians g woork - a shoe h should h ld be b visibl blle l but b sometimes needs d to be invisible” ible”

I

f you had to name one designer brand that everryy woman aspires a to and desires more than any other it would have to be Christian Louboutin high heels. Wor Worn by some of the most beautiful women on n the planet, Christian Louboutin has become a byword for internationaal glamourr..

Christian Louboutin has built one of the most successfull shoe brands in the world with a blend of crafftsmanship tsmanship and a distinctivee kind of glamour. From razor sharp stilettos and lace-up boots to studded udded sneakers and bejewelled pumps, Louboutin’s designs carry his unique signature. After leaving school, Louboutin worked at the fam mous Parisian music hall, the ‘Folies Bergere’. He watched the showgirls, captivated by their flamboyant costumes in which they performed effo ortlessly in towering heels. He would show up with drawings of shoes es for all

the dancers. “Ever since I was very young, I have been obsessed essed with spike heels. It’s all about the legs, how they carry themselves, es, the embellishment of the bodyy.. They are the ultimate icons.”

Christian Louboutin established himself as a freelance designer ner working for Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent and Maud Frizon, before launching his own first boutique in 1992, in Galerie Vero Vero Dodat, Rue Jean Jacques Rousseau, sseau, close to the Louvre Museum.This was followed by New York York in 1994, and in 1997, his first London boutique on Motcomb Street.

Many more glamorous boutiques and top-end concessions followed.

The designer’s goal has been to “make a woman look sexyy,, beautiful, to make her legs look as long as [he] can” While he does offer some lowerr-heeled -heeled styles, Louboutin is generally associated with his dressier evening-wear designs incorporating jewelled d straps, bows, feathers, patent leather er and other similar decorative touches. Hee is most popularly known for his red-botttom high heel shoes, commonly refer erred to as “sammy red-bottoms”.

The coloureed nails, sequins and leather clasp aree a playful interpretation of vviibrant floral pattern and pasttel hues.

THE DET TAILS AILS

5 2 DECEMBER 2015

To ssee Christian Louboutin’s full range, andd lilistt off bboutiques ti andd stockists, t kists,, please l visit i it www w.chr .chriistianlouboutin.com

02-FP-Ad-Master.qxp 09/12/2015 14:52 Page 1

MICKLEFIELD HALL SARRATT, NEAR RICKMANSWORTH

THE PERFECT COUNTRY HOUSE WEDDING VENUE WITH STUNNING 16TH CENTURY BARN FOR UP TO 200 GUESTS. EXCLUSIVE PRIVATE USE.

For further information call

01923 778 898 or visit ZZZ PLFNOHÀHOGKDOO FRP Viewing is strictly by appointment only.

p54-Bucks-AndrewGardner.qxp__ 09/12/2015 14:37 Page 1

FASHION

ounded in 1879 by James Crockett and his brother-in-law Charles Jones, this world renowned, 5th generation Northampton shoemaker specialise in the manufacture of high quality Goodyear-welted footwear. Crockett & Jones stands at the pinnacle of the footwear industry. Synonymous with English shoemaking at its very finest, the company is still firmly dedicated to the highest standards of traditional craftsmanship and an uncompromising commitment to quality - second to none. e Crockett & Jones men’s range consists of three handmade collections; the Hand Grade Collection, the Main Collection and the Cordovan Collection.

With over 60 styles in a variety of different fittings, various leathers, suedes and sole units available in stock and to order from Andrew Gardner in Wendover.

Crockett & Jones offers a full refurbishment service for its Goodyear welted shoes and boots through Andrew Gardner. e shoes are returned to the factory in Northampton, where they are: stripped down, re-welted, re-soled and re-heeled on the appropriate lasts, to retain their shape, by the skilled craftsmen and women.

Now after more than 135 years Crockett & Jones’ shoes still retain the attention to detail, quality, comfort and durability that was the hallmark of their founders, Sir James Crockett and Charles Jones. ■ 5 4 DECEMBER 2015

p54-Bucks-AndrewGardner.qxp__ 09/12/2015 14:37 Page 2

Main image: Pembroke in Scotch Grain Leather

All in store now at Andrew Gardner, Wendover.

Telephone. 01296 625 488 emaill. enquiries@andrewgardner.co.uk DECEMBER 2015 5 5

p56-Bucks-CecilyDaySpa.qxp__ 09/12/2015 09:19 Page 1

HEALTH & BEAUTY

DROP A DRESS SIZE YOU SAY? Up to 12 inches from my body?

S

oil into the skin where the active ingredient is ound too good to be true? I agree, I’m attracted to the fat cells. Changing the fat a huge sceptic of ‘instant’ fat loss from a triglyceride (within the fat cell) claims, which is why I was to a free fatty acid in this way intrigued to find out more enables the fat to be easily about Shrinking Violet. Nikki, from my removed from your body. It is amazing team, first introduced me to essential that you drink lots of Tibby Oliver’s ground-breaking water following the treatment invention. I simply could not believe for 72 hours to help with the that a 90 minute treatment could removal of fat from your body shrink fat cells and offer such ridiculous along with following the pre and inch loss. So I tried it, and tried it again Kate Stevenson-Lupton, Founder of Cecily post treatment advice below. and have to say was converted on the spot.

Townhouse Day Spa So much so, we offer it in our wonderful THE PROCESS Cecily Day Spa. However before it could enter the Following your personal consultation, building it had to meet 2 very important criteria. 1. you will be measured in certain areas in MUST be cruelty Free – No ingredients or final product has inches. Shrinking Violet is then been tested on animals. 2. It HAS to work – I will not sell a applied to your skin from treatment or product in our spa that does not live up to its mid-calf to upper arms and a marketing claims. unique heat inducing wrapture is wrapped around your body.

WHAT IS A SHRINKING VIOLET WRAP? You are then placed on a is unique, revolutionary body-wrap works by Lipolysis heated bed to relax and via heat transfer, which disrupts and changes the permeability unwind. After one hour, we of fat cell membranes. is causes the cell to release remove the wrapture and intra-cellular fat and reduces the size and shape of the fat cells record another set of body without affecting the surrounding structures of skin, blood measurements to reveal your vessels and peripheral nerves. e most powerful inch-loss total body inch loss. e wrap available today. Clients of a variety of body shapes are good news is the solution experiencing an average inch loss from 4"-12" from mid-calf keeps working for 72 hours, to upper arms. so expect your results to e Shrinking Violet Body Wrap has changed the industry keep improving! of body wrap treatments. It’s a treatment that can successfully remove fat from all over your body and in problem areas such as the thighs, hips, buttocks, upper arms and abdomen using a • Immediate and lasting results new method called Lipolysis; this is the exciting part, lipolysis • Relaxing and de-stressing works by breaking down fat stored within your fat cells which • Deep cleansing then enables the fat to be easily removed from your body.

• Improvement in appearance of cellulite HOW DOES IT WORK? e Shrinking Violet Oil is for professional use only.

Containing the maximum strength of 20% hydrolysed lethecin (the active ingredient) possible it is three times more active than many other body wraps. e Shrinking Violet oil penetrates the skin in seconds. e heat generated from the wrapture forces the

5 6 DECEMBER 2015

• Skin firming

e perfect way to compliment weight loss through healthy eating and exercise.

Ingredients: Grapeseed oil, jojoba oil hydrolised lecithin, lavender essential oil, juniper essential oil, cypress essential oil, juniper berries. ■

THE DETAILS

Available at Cecily Townhouse Day Spa 10 Castle Street Berkhamsted HP4 2BQ Tel. 01442 878126 www.cecilytownhousedayspa.com

p57-Bucks-Ad-Various.qxp__ 08/12/2015 17:10 Page 1

WAXING | TANNING | BROWS & LASHES | FACIALS | MASSAGE | LUXURY PEDICURES | GELS | INCH LOSS ENVIRON | ANTI AGEING | BODY TREATMENTS | CELLULITE TREATMENT | THREADING | MENS TREATMENTS

BOOK & BUY VOUCHERS ONLINE www.cecilydayspa.co.uk

Page 1 C E C I LY | 16/11/2015 TOWNHOUSE12:54 DAY SPAS 10 Castle Street | Berkhamsted | HP4 2BQ | Tel: 01442 878126 | www.cecilydayspa.co.uk | enquiries@cecilydayspa.co.uk

Mr Michael Gaunt Consultant Vascular Surgeon Varicose and Thread Veins

NEW LEGS NEW YOU...

Do your legs let you down because of varicose veins or thread veins?

Consultant vascular surgeon Michael Gaunt specialises in varicose and thread veins.

He is a leading venous expert, experienced in treating varicose veins with both the Endovenous laser and ClariVein techniques. Varicose veins are often considered a cosmetic condition but if neglected can result in complications.

Minimally invasive local anaesthetic procedures can be used to treat varicose veins on a walk in, walk out basis.

Also available is VeinWave treatment for unsightly facial thread veins and spider veins.

If you would like to book a mini-consultation for just ÂŁ95, or if you would like to find out more about your treatment options, call 01223 305858 or visit www.michaelgaunt.com Harley Street London

Spire Lea & Nuffield Health Cambridge

Spire Norwich Norfolk

BMI Bury St Edmunds Suffolk

p58-Bucks-Shameek.qxp__ 08/12/2015 16:31 Page 1

HEALTH & BEAUTY

OUR AWARD OUR WINNING DENTIST

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all our readers and a big thank you for your support this past year. It’s the season of eating, drinking and spending time with your family so make the most of it and when the New Year starts we all start thinking about improving ourselves so here are 5 quick affordable ways to update your appearance. We will take care of you while you sit back and relax!

FIVE QUICK WAYS TO UPDATE YOUR APPEARANCE 1. White fillings can modernize old stained or silver-coloured ones.

2. Minimum prep or no Prep Veneers can camouflage cracked, chipped, or unevenly spaced teeth without surgery.

3. Non-surgical tooth lengthening can re-balance too-short or worn-down teeth discreetly and beautifully.

4. Crowns can re-vamp the appearance and strength of severely damaged teeth.

5. Whitening can eradicate all traces of past extravagances like drinking tea, coffee, and red wine.

On trend? Definitely! Cosmetic dentistry has a solution to fit your lifestyle and budget. Call your dentist and look after your smile – we’re here to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.

To re-fashion your image, you don’t have to lose weight, dye your hair, or trash your wardrobe. Small smile changes can create a huge lasting impact, unlike fads that are here today and gone tomorrow. It’s a makeover tip that will last.

THE DETAILS

Rosebank Dental Practice, Shire Lane, Chorleywood, Hertfordshire WD3 5NH Tel: 01923 282 691 www.rosebankdental.co.uk

5 8 DECEMBER 2015

p59-Bucks-Ad-Various.qxp__ 09/12/2015 17:25 Page 1

CHRISTMAS Care and companionship at

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from all at Oxygen Lifestyle Salon & Spa in Beaconsfield

£10 GIFT VOUCHER* Redeemable on hair & beauty services over £30 on your next visit to Oxygen during January 2016 1A Station Parade, Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire HP9 2PB

01494 676180

info@oxygenhairandbeauty.co.uk www.oxygenhairandbeauty.co.uk OxygenBeaconsfield

oxygenaveda

T&Cs: To redeem your complimentary £10 gift voucher please take this voucher with you and mention whilst booking your appointment. One voucher per customer. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount. Cannot be redeemed in whole or part for cash. (Life)

Are you concerned that your loved one will be on their own over the Christmas holidays? Why not take this opportunity to organise some visits from one of our carefully selected carers? It could be the start of something new, and give you the peace of mind you deserve over the busy festive period.

At Universal Care we recognise that needing care doesn’t make you or your loved one incapable and we offer a range of care for all kinds of situations. Our compassionate, reliable carers tend to come from a variety of backgrounds, some having previously worked in nursing or care while others arrive at caring as a career after looking after family members.

Bath & Body Boutique • Late night shopping (See online for details) • Locally made • Luxurious and innovative • Natural ingredients

We are one of the leading home care agencies in Buckinghamshire and Berkshire and our team of dedicated carers provide quality daily care support, live-in and respite care. As we are a small privately owned company, established in 1986, our service is personal to your loved one and the needs of the family.

Our Directors and experienced Care Managers will be happy to talk to you or visit you at home to discuss your needs and find out how we can help.

Romantic Christmas • Connect with a loved one • Limited edition Christmas soaps • Christmas scented candles

• www.soakyourself.co.uk • 21 High Street, Lane End, High Wycombe HP14 3JF

Call 01494 678811 or email care@universal-care.co.uk www.universal-care.co.uk

p60-Bucks-DoctorNow.qxp__ 08/12/2015 16:58 Page 1

HEALTH & BEAUTY

RESPIRATORY CONDITIONS IN WINTER

T

his is the time of year when severe weather snaps can cause common colds or influenza to lead to chest infections, Pneumonias and exacerbations of existing respiratory conditions, such as Asthma and Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD); the biggest effects being on people over aged 65. Practice Nurse Fiona Ison at DOCTORnow explains more.

Respiratory conditions such as Asthma and COPD should be well controlled and managed using prescribed inhalers following individualised management plans, drawn up between you and your GP or Nurse.

ASTHMA Asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition in the airways. It is well controlled if a reliever inhaler (blue) is required no more than two times per week. If a cough and wheeze is causing you to need the blue inhaler more frequently, we would advise you to see your GP or nurse for a review of inhalers. Signs of uncontrolled Asthma can include an increasing need for the reliever inhale, waking at night with wheeze or cough, or in children, a consistent night time cough as well as a wheeze and shortness of breath that impacts on day to day activities.

CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE COPD is a general term used to describe a number of respiratory conditions, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Characterised by airways which have become permanently narrowed, causes can be occupational, occasionally inherited, but predominantly the result of smoking. Keeping well with this condition requires regular 6 0 DECEMBER 2015

use of prescribed inhalers, staying active and good nutrition, keeping warm as well as close monitoring by a doctor or nurse. Using home rescue medications, guided by a management plan can also help during times of exacerbations.

For patients with a respiratory condition, the influenza and pneumonia injection is recommended annually. We are still offering the influenza vaccination, please call us to organise an appointment.

THESE TIPS WILL HELP YOU KEEP HEALTHY DURING THE COLD WINTER MONTHS: • Wear layers of clothing when it’s cold, thermals are useful, as are woollen socks and tights • Keep your home at the recommended temperature: 21°C (70°F) • Keep your home well ventilated to ensure good air quality as this is the place you spend most time during winter months • If you have a bronchodilator inhaler (blue) use it half an hour before leave the house • Protect your lungs by covering your nose and mouth with a scarf For more information on these conditions, or for diagnosis and management, call your local DOCTORnow surgery: Beaconsfield 01494 410888 or Tring 01442 502999. ■

THE DETAILS

Beaconsfield Surgery 01494 410888 Tring Surgery 01442 502999 www.doctornow.org

p61-Bucks-Ad-Various.qxp__ 09/12/2015 17:28 Page 1

WADDESDON MANOR

Dee McKenna © Joana Vasconcelos

Winter Light 11 NOVEMBER - 3 JANUARY Wednesday-Sunday 10am-5pm Until 7pm Friday-Sunday from 20 November A celebration of light: innovative art installations in the Gardens, dramatic son et lumière, Christmas interiors, family fun and a bigger than ever Christmas Fair.

Nr Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire HP18 0JH T 01296 653226 www.waddesdon.org.uk

The ‘Desk Diet’ to blame for weight-gain

A

survey exploring work place eating habits has illustrated that 82% of workers now eat at their desks because they have too much work on. Not only are the increasing stress levels increasing the i workers waist-lines, but 24% of workers now need to feed their flagging energy levels with ‘whatever they can get their hands on’ 35% reaching for chocolate because they have no time to take a lunch break.

To add to the desk diet conundrum, 44% of office workers also blame colleagues for their weight gain. The survey showed that there is always one ‘office feeder’ encouraging bad eating habits.

The office feeder is a new breed of colleague bringing in treats and snacks for everyone - further fuelling the unhealthy desk diet.

TV’s Doctor Hilary Jones comments: “This comes as no surprise to anyone at LighterLife! Stress plays a huge role in eating habits and the challenges of a busy life hugely impact healthy eating and a healthy lifestyle. Stress is a major trigger for overeating and sustained stress is an unhealthy way to live life and also impairs the ability of talented workers to have more balanced thinking while also boosting the risk of illness. While companies and workers might think the desk diet is a productive and efficient approach to managing work load, the lack of a lunch break will not only impact the waist-line but also the workload. The survey has again highlighted that a change in mindset is exactly what people need when it comes to mindful and healthy eating. Workers need to stop making excuses and start eating well again.

Until you change your thinking, you will always recycle your experiences and that change can only come from understanding and the action taken from that understanding.

Contact, Dee McKenna at the LighterLife Centre High Wycombe 01494 444828/07793 393957 for more information, visit LighterLife.com

p62-Bucks-Hazlemere.qxp__ 08/12/2015 11:36 Page 1

Why property owners should choose

A+ OR A++ ENERGY RATED replacement windows

I

f and when replacing inefficient, outdated or inefficient existing windows, it makes sense, given the ever rising costs of electricity and gas, to choose the most affordable thermally efficient replacement windows.

Technological advances in the double glazing industry over the last decade have caused the first and second generations of replacement double glazing (which at the time was a massive improvement on single glazing) to be superceded by “thermally broken” energy saving efficient windows, that meant far better energy ratings were achieved.

Window Energy Ratings (or WER’s) were introduced by the Government many years ago now to help consumers

6 2 DECEMBER 2015

know how thermally efficient any particular combination of frame, gaskets and glass sealed units were. Back on 1st October 2010, the Building Regulations changed so that from then on double glazing installers, suppliers and home owners had a legal responsibility if replacing windows, to replace them with either an independently tested “C” rated, “B” rated or “A” rated window, with until fairly recently, an “A” being the highest rating available.

This legislation brought about a sea change in the double glazing industry, whereby it had to suddenly scrap any outdated non-thermally broken window products for higher quality, better designed, more expensive, thermally

p62-Bucks-Hazlemere.qxp__ 08/12/2015 11:37 Page 2

HOUSE & GARDEN

broken products, be the window frames made out of aluminium, timber or UPVC (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride).

The resultant improved living environment and financial savings on energy bills for property owners has led to much of the UK housing stock being better insulated, so much so that home owners looking to sell their properties with older outdated double or single glazing are severely disadvantaged, or at the very least not able to achieve the sale price they had hoped for.

For double glazing manufacturers to achieve a decent window energy rating they need a frame that is thermally broken (i.e. where the outer pane and inner pane are separated, so that the cold on the outside cannot interfere with the warmth on the inside) and a high specification sealed unit with a warm edge spacer bar separating the inner and outer glass panes which is filled with an inert gas like Argon, which not only insulates, it helps with sound reduction too.

Recent technological advances now enable certain UPVC products to obtain even greater energy ratings than “A”. Some companies use triple glazing to achieve better than an “A” rating, whereas others have opted to improve their double glazed frames, making them more robust as well as more thermally efficient in the process.

Triple glazing sealed units costs more than double glazed sealed units simply because there are two warm edge spacer bars, rather than one, and three panes of glass rather than two. This means triple glazed units cost more to replace if they break down or crack than double glazed units, a factor worth noting if choosing between these two options.

Independent double glazing manufacturers and installers Hazlemere Window Company Ltd have been replacing windows in the UK for over 30 years. They have recently switched all their UPVC casement windows with side hung and top hung opening vents to

Independent double glazing manufacturers and installers Hazlemere Window Company Ltd have been replacing windows in the UK for over 30 years A+ as standard. The outer window sash on the bespoke UPVC windows they supply and install now has six chambers increasing the thermal break between the inside and outside, as well as the robustness of the product.

They also now offer a UPVC triple glazed window with a slimmer outer frame that has an A++ energy rating.

As it is now possible to have professionally fitted bespoke A+ energy rated double glazed windows for far less than A+ or A++ triple glazing, it makes better financial sense to invest in double glazed A+ windows. If the most thermally efficient windows on the planet are not well fitted, they won’t perform, so it is important to select an experienced installer you can trust to do a professional job.

THE DETAILS If you’d like to find out more about energy rated aluminium or UPVC windows, contact Hazlemere Windows as they offer free professional advice and a no obligation quotation without any hard sell.

Call them on or email improve@hazlemere.co.uk, alternatively visit www.hazlemere.co.uk and download one of their brochures or free windows buyers’ guides.

DECEMBER 2015

63

p64-Bucks-LoveWater.qxp__ 08/12/2015 16:22 Page 1

house & garden

Could hard water be affecting your health & home?

C

ould where you live affect your skin’s health and even cost you hundreds of pounds each year in maintenance bills? e answer could be yes, and it is all down to your tap water, especially if you live in Bucks & Berks, where our water is classified as “very hard” with around 300ppm-470 (parts per million) of hardness minerals i.e. calcium and magnesium in our water.

In the UK there are over 13 million homes situated in hard water areas. Studies have shown that hard water can be an eczema trigger, and that primary school children living in hard water areas are almost 50% more likely to have eczema than those living in a softer water area. An increase has also been seen in patients with psoriasis and dry skin conditions, with our skins getting drier and ‘cracking’ in the winter months due to harsh weather, central heating and hard water.

Tony Frost, an independent consultant with over 35 years’ experience in water treatment supplies and services says, “It is thought that the calcium and magnesium in hard water cause dryness, which can lead to irritation, and households in hard water areas tend to use much more soap and detergent, which further tend to aggravate eczema or psoriasis

sufferers’ skin.”

Limescale can also make protecting your home a misery, forming scale deposits that build up inside the walls of your water pipes and heat exchangers, restricting water flow and damaging your water using appliances.

At the same time, the minerals combine with soap and detergents to produce a white film found on your glasses and dishes while tiny particles gradually deteriorate clothing fibres, reducing the life of your clothes.

Water softeners are designed to eliminate hard water spotting and build-up on surfaces of showers, baths and sinks, making it easier to keep them clean. You will also notice that you use less soap, your clothes will be softer and last longer and your skin and hair will feel smoother.

Soft water also preserves the life of your water using appliances, particularly taps, showerheads and washing machines and will protect your boiler/water heater and in turn, reduce your annual energy bill to run it.

You may not want to move house now you live in Bucks & Berks but you could significantly improve your water quality and family’s health by improving your water when it enters your home. ■

The deTaiLs

For more information on water softeners or to book a free home demo or site survey Call the Love Your Water Team!

Tel: 01494 673200 • 01753 531985 01628 788819 • 01344 859909 email: info@loveyourwater.co.uk Twitter: @loveyourwater Facebook: /Loveyourwatercouk Visit: www.loveyourwater.co.uk 6 4 DECEMBER 2015

p64-Bucks-LoveWater.qxp__ 08/12/2015 16:22 Page 2

? s k r e B r o s k c u B n i Live ! e r e H s t r a t S r e t a W Better Block Tablet, Block, Tablet, b Granu ular Salt Best prices guaranteed d d!

Water Softeners Installation, Service & Repair

Drinking Water Systems e Chilled, Boiling, Sparklin ng

Instant Hot Water T Taps aps Installation & Servicing g

Replac l ementt C Cartrid t id dges Water filters, RO, Fridge e

Call us or Visit us at:

0 14 94 6 7 32 200 www.loveyourwater.co.uk #1 Home Water Systems Dealer in Bucks ucks & Berks

A Authorised Dealer

p66-Bucks-JulianGraham.qxp__ 08/12/2015 16:37 Page 1

HOUSE & GARDEN

From dreams to reality D

o you dream of a new kitchen or bathroom? en visit our showroom in Hazlemere and be inspired.

Stunning British built kitchens, offering a huge choice of colours and finishes, beautiful bathrooms offering the latest digital showers or wall hung units, all making cooking or bathing the relaxing, pleasurable experience it should be.

We offer the initial consultation in the showroom, a site visit, design, discussions until you are completely happy and the production of plans, all free of charge. We then take care of all the supplying and fitting.

We have an enthusiastic and knowledgeable showroom team and professional, experienced fitters all working together to give you the kitchen or bathroom you dream of.

Many of our new customers have been recommended to us by previous customers and we have much repeat business from customers as they move house. We believe this is because we make customer satisfaction a priority and having access to exceptional quality British and European products means we can always find the look, style and quality you deserve.

We have some fantastic promotions for January so what better way to spend a grey, damp, winter’s day than

6 6 DECEMBER 2015

dreaming and planning a bright new kitchen or bathroom for the spring.

We wish you all a very merry Christmas and hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you into our showroom soon. ■

THE DETAILS

325 Amersham Road, Hazlemere, Buckinghamshire HP15 7PX 01494 718585 www.jgkab.co.uk

p67-Bucks-Ad-Various.qxp__ 09/12/2015 15:01 Page 1

LOVE SHUTTERS

20 O % FF

Peter John offer the finest quality interior wooden shutters that look stunning in any room. Custom-made to fit perfectly every time and installed by our own fully trained fitters to exacting standards.

Transform your home with 20% off all shutters in our Love Shutters promotion.

Get a free survey and quote today and breathe new life into your windows. t. 01296 398301 e. enquiries@peterjohn.co.uk

w. www.peterjohn.co.uk

Visit our showrooms: Aylesbury - 01296 398301 Berkhamstead - 01442 873093

Ultimate Style.

Ultimate Luxury.

Welcome to an experience to savour, where every moment is to be treasured.

Laura Ashley - The Manor Elstree with itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s AA Rosette Cavendish Restaurant is now open.

7HOHSKRQH

Hertfordshireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s New Luxury Hotel with breathtaking views over London

*Orders must be placed by 14th February 2016, terms and conditions apply.

p68-Bucks-HeritageWindows.qxp__ 08/12/2015 16:53 Page 1

HOUSE & GARDEN

Are you facing another winter with Cold, Draughty or Leaking Windows?

D

oes your home have ageing metal windows?

If so then the thought of another winter like last year is probably sending shivers down your spine already, not to mention the rising energy costs of trying to keep your home warm. Now is probably the best time to do something about it before the cold weather really hits in the New Year.

The Heritage Window Company has been manufacturing and installing slimline aluminium windows for 20 years with innovative concepts to deliver unparalleled performance.

The new Heritage Conservation range with its unique ultralow profile frame has been carefully developed to replicate traditional style steel windows, and provide all the benefits

mean they can be customized to almost any requirements, and the tough powder coated finish means they are virtually maintenance free. You can choose from over 200 colours – even opting for different colours inside and out to suit your home’s décor.

The Heritage Window Company takes its reputation for quality products and customer service very seriously – the company employs its own team of trained craftsmen and all installations are monitored throughout the contract to ensure the highest quality standards.

Proof of just how successful this formula is are the many customer testimonials which can be viewed at their showrooms, and this relentless focus on customer

of double glazing, without compromising the character of a period home.

Heritage Conservation windows not only offer better thermal performance – having achieved an ‘A’ performance rating and a 1.6+ U value – but satisfy all the latest building regulations for replacement or new build applications, and multipoint shootbolt locking provides extra security as well.

Managing Director, Sean Ballard says: “One of the great advantages of Heritage windows is that they fit into existing timber subframes which dispenses with the need for redecoration. Should the subframes need replacing, our craftsmen can reproduce new timber frames matching the original profile.” The windows can also be fitted direct-tobrick or stone.

Many customers have a specific idea of what they want, so all Heritage windows are bespoke and made to order in its London factory. A range of styles and glazing options

satisfaction and quality product has clearly paid off. “We get people writing in every week, talking about how pleased they are with their new windows and the care and attention to detail of our fitters. In fact, a large proportion of our business comes from existing customers or referrals, which is encouraging” says Sean.

As energy prices continue to rise, the cost of heating your home is only going to increase. Heritage’s energy efficient windows employ a ‘polyamide thermal resin break’ to reduce condensation and argon-filled double-glazed sealed units to ensure more of the heat stays in – helping you keep those heating bills down.

Slimline aluminium replacement windows save on energy costs and preserve the appearance of your period property

6 8 DECEMBER 2015

THE DETAILS

For details or expert advice call 0208 695 0055, email sales@thwc.co.uk or visit www.thwc.co.uk

p69-Bucks-Ad-Various.qxp__ 08/12/2015 17:15 Page 1

SMARTEN UP YOUR HOME Contact us for sales and advice on: • Home controls for newbuild and renovation.

• Home cinema and HDTV distribution.

• Custom remote controls using your smartphone or tablet.

• Wi-Fi upgrades. Great Wi-Fi everywhere.

• Nest smart thermostats and smoke alarms.

• CCTV. See who comes to your door when you are away.

01296 330149 FOR ALL YOUR HOME TECHNOLOGY REQUIREMENTS

p70-Bucks-Antiques.qxp__ 09/12/2015 13:45 Page 1

HOUSE & GARDEN

7-10 JANUARY 2016

RARE & UNIQUE Fine Art & Antiques

W

7 0 DECEMBER 2015

hat do you do to cheer yourself up after the festive season is over and the long cold winter days loom ahead? A spot of luxury retail therapy never goes amiss and with four days of the impressive Mayfair Antiques & Fine Art Fair about to take place at The London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square, from Thursday 7 until Sunday 10 January, you can join the international clientele, collectors and designers to discover the diverse array the 44 exhibitors are showing and take the opportunity to make yourself and others extremely happy.

A plethora of rare and unique items are for sale, covering centuries of history and including 20th century pieces like five one-off celebrity photographs taken by Andy Warhol or a signed screen print invitation for his retrospective exhibition Marilyn - Invitation, 1981. So much in vogue these days are Art Deco and mid-20th century furniture and accessories like a very early mid-20th century sideboard credenza designed

by Robert Heritage, with the decorative design by his wife Dorothy. The sideboard was made by GW Evans for Heals of Tottenham Court Road, c1950, and is priced at £12,500.

Heritage designed for many companies and later became Professor of Furniture Design at the Royal College of Art. Antique furniture, art and other objects for sale include a 19th century oak and parquetry centre table

with applied carving to the frieze, 62” diameter, c1815, £30,000. Wine buffs may be keen to add an extremely rare Commonwealth silver wine taster to their collection. Made in London in 1659 and stamped with the maker’s mark of ET, with a crescent below, it is selling for £6,500. Very few wine tasters were made by English silversmiths because wine was not a national product and the production of decorative silverware, especially a wine taster, would have been severely frowned upon during the puritanical rule of Cromwell, which adds to the rarity of this example.

There are light refreshments available within the fair itself or treat your friends to a meal in one of the two Gordon Ramsay restaurants within the hotel. At the end of the day, the hotel’s award winning cocktail bar could whip up a treat to celebrate your successful shopping spree.

Stephen Morris Shipping is on hand to arrange deliveries of your larger purchases.

From top: An extremely rare Commonwealth silver wine taster with maker’s mark ET, 1” high x 5.6” handle to handle, London, 1659, £6,500 from Mary Cooke Antiques; Marilyn - Invitation, 1981 screen print on wove paper, signed by Andy Warhol (1928-1987), 12”x12”, £26,750 from Haynes Fine Art of Broadway; A pair of Art Deco carved oak chairs with snail motif to the centre, upholstered in cream alcantara suede, 81cm high x 69cm wide, seat: 42cm high x 48cm deep, Italian, c1930, £1,450 from Jeroen Markies Art Deco; 4.14 carat emerald cut diamond ring, set in platinum, £45,000 from Anthea AG Antiques Ltd

THE DETAILS

The Mayfair Antiques & Fine Art Fair, in association with Wetherell, opens at the London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square, London W1K 6JP from Thursday 7 until Sunday 10 January 2016. Enquiries and tickets (£10 each) from The Antiques Dealers Fair Limited, Telephone: +44 (0)1797 252030 or Email: info@adfl.co.uk, www.mayfairfair.com

p71-Bucks-Ad-Various.qxp__ 08/12/2015 17:02 Page 1

Start your winter, chilled.

Ergonomic Seating for h\Y <caY óbX CZÑ WY kkk"Ñ bYVóW_"Wc"i_

7-9 Haseldine Road London Colney St. Albans Herts AL2 1RR (One mile to Jct 22 of the M25) Hours of business: Mon – Sat 9.00am to 5.00pm.

01727 827744

Chester from himolla, the coolest way to relax through the winter months.

Best recliner manufacturer 2015

p72-Bucks-Library.qxp__ 09/12/2015 14:39 Page 1

HOUSE & GARDEN

The Story of a Home Libraryy

The library as a room, as well as a collection of bookss,, has a long and vibrant history in the English housee,, and remains an indispensable room for the educated and wealth hy.

I

n this digital age, it may surprise you to read that more people want libraries than cinemas in their homes. Books have lost none of their appeal, with many people carrying “old friends” they have loved reading from house to house.

Installing libraries and reading rooms in homes does not belong to yesteryear either. The British Interior Design Association reports many of its members converting second sitting rooms into libraries.

In today ’s environment-conscious world, they also have another valuable function. Books are the original insulator. A shelf of books along an outside wall works well to prevent heat escaping, and if all the books were removed from the homes in Britain, our energy bills would rocket. et

TOP TIPS ON INST TALLING ALLING A LIBRAR RY Y You need plenty of natural light, but avoid sunlight falling directly on to your books as this can damage them. Either have closed curtains or shutters on your windows for when you are not using your library, or don’t install bookshelves directly opposite a south or west facing window w..

Well-directed reading lights are essential, with an adjustable arm over a favourite chair. On the shelves themselves, well-shaded bar shaped librarryy lights will help you find your chosen volume.

Books and paper are prone to decay and mould in the wrong conditions, with excess warmth and damp and too much dust the main culprits. Keep your librarryy cool and dry and dust books regularlyy, from the spine outwards using a sofftt brush.

When installing shelves, use natural wood, simply waxed, or if painted, use organic paints to minimise chemical damage.

Cooking fumes are not good for books so, if you can, use a room far away from the kitchen.

You don’t have to have a dedicated library. Install bookshelves in a room such as a playroom or small sitting room. Use this room for music practice or board and card games, to encourage children to have a room where television and computer games are banned.

Depending on the wood you use and the finish, installing a bay of books ranges from hundreds for a plain pine bookcase to several thousand pounds for mahoganyy.. Ensure the shelves are at least an inch thick and no more than four feet long otherwise they will bow under the weight of books.

Taller shelves for heavier books should be along the bottom, with paperbacks at the top.

7 2 DECEMBER 2015

p73-Bucks-Ad-Various.qxp__ 08/12/2015 17:09 Page 1

Replacement aluminium windows for period and new homes

The Conservation Range

A-rated* LULYN` LMÄJPLUJ` Single or dual RAL colours Fit into timber or direct to stone UK manufactured

For expert advice call 0800 731 4294 www.thwc.co.uk

Showrooms at: Sevenoaks Dorking Beaconsfield Loughton *An “A” rated product or certain “U” value is subject to DGU performance and type of specialist sealant or glass and gas used.

Are you sleeping comfortably?

Choose a Royally approved handmade bed, designed to provide a deep and memorable night’s sleep and a positive, energetic start to the day.

Visit our Showroom: Monday to Thursday 9.00am to 5.00pm Friday and Saturday 9.00am to 4.00pm

Longwick Road | Princes Risborough | Bucks HP27 9RS T: 01844 348200 | www.hypnosbeds.com Alternatively, visit your local Hypnos Retailer: Aylesbury Lucas Furniture 01296 486255 Gerrards Cross Crystal Carpets & Furnishings 01753 889230 High Wycombe Hull Loosley & Pearce 01494 445353 Thame Greens Furnishings 01844 212560

Handmade in

Princes Risborough with a

10 Year Guarantee

14:18

p74-Bucks-SamRosenberg.qxp__ 09/12/2015 11:26 Page 1

PROPERTY LIFE

Palazzo Penthouse awarded best apartment in the UK

P

icture-perfect Palazzo Penthouse in Hadley Wood is the talk of the town after being named the UK’s finest new apartment in the International Property Awards.

Such an accolade represents a world-renowned mark of excellence in the fine art of luxury home design and elevates Palazzo Penthouse to be recognised as the jewel in the crown of Fusion Residential’s peerless portfolio of pristine properties.

Palazzo is a custom-built condominium of apartments in beautiful tree-lined Beech Hill, one of the most soughtafter addresses in the Home Counties.

Palazzo – which means palace in Italian, the language of love - is exquisitely finished and boasts a galaxy of lifeenriching furnishings, fixtures and fittings, brought together with enviable style and finesse. In any language, to cast your eyes on Palazzo Penthouse, is love at first sight.

With electronic gated entrance and discrete underground parking, Palazzo is a showcase of six supersumptuous concierge serviced three bedroom apartments with wide-open outdoor terraces offering panoramic views of the countryside.

Such is Fusion Residential’s marvellous reputation and pedigree that five Palazzo apartments were sold within weeks of coming to market. Ironically, and somewhat unbelievably, the award-winning Penthouse is now the only apartment available for sale, priced at £2.5 million.

The penthouse presents a lustrous dream of opulence, high ceilings, full height windows and tactile fabric wall coverings. It is brought together with decadence, an eclectic

mix of fixtures and fittings, the very best brought in from all corners of the globe, and a state-of-the-art home management system and Lutron mood lighting, all delivered with exacting attention to detail.

It is a personality trait of the Fusion Residential team to exceed expectations in every aspect and this latest accolade – a third consecutive year of honours in the International Property Awards - provides proof positive that the Letchmore Heath-based Design House is now considered amongst the very best in the UK. Fusion Residential Managing Director Antoine Christoforou is justifiably thrilled with this latest honour, which comes after Palazzo was named Hertfordshire’s best new apartment in the previous round of the awards programme.

He said: “To be recognised three years running by the UK Property Awards is testament to the team’s dedication.”

“To now also be winners on an International stage however really is a dream fulfilled for the Fusion team.

“The award underlines the Fusion Residential ethos of striving for perfection in everything we do.

“We have an incredibly talented team and each individual can be very proud that their imagination, innovation and tireless attention to detail has been rewarded with this amazing award.”

But there is no time to sit back and enjoy the view of the masterpiece that is Palazzo Penthouse. The team are already working on their next project aiming to raise the bar yet higher in their quest to deliver the very ultimate luxury lifestyle.

To experience the luxury lifestyle on offer at Palazzo Penthouse, call Debbie Williams on 01923 216 535 or 020 8440 6329, or visit fusionresidential.co.uk.

7 4 DECEMBER 2015

p74-Bucks-SamRosenberg.qxp__ 09/12/2015 11:27 Page 2

05-DP-Ad-Master__ 12/11/2015 16:33 Page 1

36 LINK SWAY NORTHWOOD đ MIDDLESEX HA6

Octagon is delighted to extend a personal invitation to view this magnificent new 7 bedroom family home situated on one of Northwood’s most exclusive roads.

The property is set in beautiful west facing landscaped gardens of approximately 1/2 acre and benefits from a separate studio apartment and a lift to all floors. Accommodation includes 4/5 reception rooms, cinema and bar, and a spacious contemporary kitchen/breakfast room with integrated Miele appliances.

36 Linksway is conveniently located for access to the motorway network; nearby Northwood tube station on the Metropolitan line operates services into London’s Baker Street in approximately 35 minutes.

Price £5.45m Open weekends 10am – 5pm or by appointment Savills Northwood: 01923 824 225 Octagon:020 8358 7900 Octagon has other fine properties for sale in North London and the Home Counties with prices currently ranging from £3.25m.

www.octagon.co.uk

05-DP-Ad-Master__ 12/11/2015 16:33 Page 2

Close To London

p80-Bucks-SpanishProperty.qxp__ 08/12/2015 16:51 Page 1

PROPERTY LIFE

PARADISE IS CLOSER THAN YOU THINK

MEDITERRANEAN PARADISE

PERFECT WEATHER

QUALITY OF LIFE

Marbella was discovered by playboy Prince Alfonso von Hohenhole. On a sunny summerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s day in the late 40's, his Rolls Royce broke down in the small fishing village of Marbella. He was so taken aback by the beautiful beaches nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Blanca Mountains, he built a house here. In 1954 Prince Alfonso opened the Marbella Club Hotel which quickly became a favorite summer holiday location for European aristocracy, business tycoons and Hollywood stars such as Cary Grant, Gary Cooper and Grace Kelly.

In the 1970's, Sean Connery made Marbella his second home as the town continued to attract British and international film stars such as Richard Burton, Omar Sharif and Michael Caine. Fast forward 10 years and Marbella was regularly visited by Princess Diana, Rod Stewart and Sting.

Today, 60 years since the opening of the Marbella Club, Marbella is still as glamorous as ever with a new generation of the rich and famous such as Antonio Banderas, Bruce Willis, David Beckham and Simon Cowell.

So what brings people to the Costa del Sol? Firstly, as the name would suggest, Costa del Sol (SunCoast) has around 325 days of sunshine a year and an average temperature of 20°C. Having one of the best microclimates on the planet means beautiful long summer evenings outside, lazy days on the sandy beaches and some of the best golf courses in the world. The Costa del Sol also offers an incredible selection of shops, restaurants and bars. From traditional Spanish Tapa's bars serving Mediterranean cuisine and fine Spanish wines to glamorous seafront restaurants with their Michelin star Chefs.

Marbella may be the home to billionaires, royalty and Hollywood stars with its chic designer brands, multimillion dollar yachts and rows of supercars, but why is the Costa del Sol becoming so popular with todays British and European modern businessman, investors and retirees?

Three simple reasons; accessibility, quality of life and security. Being only a two and half hour flight from most European airports, the Costa del Sol has a perfect combination of weather, accessibility, cuisine, international schools and colleges, superb medical services, excellent investment opportunities and security. Spain is doing a very good job ensuring its jewel in the crown is kept secure and stable in comparison to other destinations suffering security problems which means a growing number of businessmen and their families now live on the Costa del Sol and commute to UK and other European countries to work.

They say that the sun rises in the east, sleeps in the west and spends its days on the Costa del Sol. YOUR DREAM HOME IN 4 MONTHS

The Costa del Sol is also the ideal place to invest. In particular, luxury home sales have come back very strongly driven by a better exchange rate in Pounds and Dollars. This year Costa del Sol property sales have increased by 30%,prices have risen by approximately 5% and the glut of property left over from the property boom that didn't sell during the economic crisis is quickly being snapped up. Whether it's a full time residency, a holiday home or an investment property, the Innovation Project team has over 30 year's experience 7 8 DECEMBER 2015

building, renovating and project managing all types of construction in Spain. We can make planning and building your project an easier and stress free undertaking.

Innovation Projects prides itself at being at the forefront of building innovation, using the latest materials and building technology. We have developed a faster, better, smarter and more cost effective building system that enables us to cut construction time by 50%. Innovation projects can build your four bedroom villa in the sun in 4 months.I

THE DETAILS

Innovation Project turning ideas and dreams into reality. www.innovationprj.com E: info@innovationprj.com T: 0034 608 146075.

innovation ad dec.qxp 28/11/2015 10:08 Page 1

p80-Bucks-LaurieGear.qxp__ 08/12/2015 15:59 Page 1

FOOD & DRINK

LAURIE

GEAR

FOOD IDEAS AND NEWS FROM THE ARTICHOKE The Festive Season

D

ecember is upon us and the Christmas Season is in full swing. Whilst the weather turns a little more chilly, it is time to keep cosy and warm and enjoy the wonderful wintry ingredients. Fantastic game – partridge, venison and partridge, rainbow kale, and root vegetable all making an appearance on the menus at the Artichoke as well as comfort dishes slow braised oxtail with a parsley root risotto, pork belly with apple, morteau sausage and pickled cabbage. Yuletide is the time to celebrate all things citrus and spice –use an array of fragrant spices including cinnamon, star anise and juniper with a little brandy and fresh vanilla to transform simply poached winter and dried fruits into an intoxicating dessert. ese aromatic fruits can be kept, in the fridge, ready to be pulled out for those unexpected visitors over the Christmas period. Serve hot or cold with a delicious ice cream they make for that true spiced flavour of the festive season. ■

POACHED SPICED WINTER FRUITS Yuletide is the time to celebrate all things citrus and spice – use an array of fragrant spices

INGREDIENTS

TO SERVE

Serve the fruits hot or cold with a generous helping of the syrup. ese fruits also eat very well with vanilla ice cream or a crisp apple sorbet and finished with a homemade oat wafer.

5 granny smith apples 5 comice pears 6 black figs 12 agen prunes (pitted) 12 medjool dates (pitted) 12 preserved cherries

POACHING LIQUID 2.5 l water 200 ml Armagnac 1.5 kg caster sugar 1 cinnamon stick 3 star anise - 2 flakes mace - 8 cloves (whole) - 6 juniper berries 2 vanilla pods (split and scraped) 2 lemons and 2 oranges (juice and zest) 30 g fresh root ginger (peeled and sliced)

METHOD • Place all the ingredients for the poaching liquid into a pan.

Bring to a slow simmer and cook for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile peel and slice the pears and apples into equally sized wedges, removing the core and seeds.

Start by firstly poaching the pear for about 15

BOOKING INFO 80

NOVEMBER 2015

minutes. en add the apple and cook for a further 10 minutes.

Finish by adding the prunes, dates and sliced figs.

Add the cherries last and simmer for another 5 minutes.

Remove from the heat and leave the fruits to cool in the warm syrup.

After store the fruit compote in a jar or a covered bowl in the fridge for a day to infuse with the spiced flavours of the syrup.

The Artichoke is open for lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Saturday.

FESTIVE CELEBRATIONS AT THE ARTICHOKE Gather your friends and family and join us over the Festive Period at the Artichoke for our Five Course Lunch Tasting Menu. @ £38 per person - optional wine flight £18. ere is still time to book that festive party or gathering and to share the Christmas cheer.

Our elegant Private Dining Room with its celebratory Charles Heidsieck Champagne Dining Packages, is available for 10 - 16 guests. is exquisite space is ideal for that festive lunch or dinner party, private celebrations and corporate dining.

FESTIVE SUNDAY LUNCHES In the run up to Christmas we are also open for ree Special Festive Sunday Lunches on the 6th, 13th and 20th December – we look forward to welcoming you!

The Artichoke Restaurant, 9 Market Square, Old Amersham | Tel: 01494 726611. www.artichokerestaurant.co.uk

p95-Bucks-Ad-Various.qxp__ 13/11/2015 15:44 Page 1

11:04

GIVE US A TRY THIS

Troutt’s have been using the same supplier for 25 years, so you can be assured of second-to-none quality. They are renowned for their 28 day aged beef joints, perfect for Sunday lunches.

• 28 day dry aged beef • Free range pork and lamb • Free range, additive free chicken turkey and goose

SATISFACTION GUARANTEED! • Three bird roast • Boned or stuffed • Home cured dry aged bacon

CHRISTMA S YOU WON’T BE DISAPPOIN TED

• Homemade sausages and burgers • Selection of cheeses • Hot and cold food served all day • Freshly cooked gourmet dishes

Aberdeen House, Hazlemere Crossroads, Hazlemere HP15 7LG Tel. 01494 711803 Tudor House, High Street, West Wycombe HP14 3AE Tel. 01494 526880

www.rstrouttbutchers.co.uk

p82-Bucks- PretaPorter.qxp__ 09/12/2015 14:46 Page 1

FOOD & DRINK

The much-anticipated Autumn/Winter 2015 Prêt-àPortea at the Berkeley in Knightsbridge, celebrates this season’s runway collections with chic, fashion-inspired cakes, mousses and biscuits.A favourite for fashionistas, Prêt-à-Portea at the Berkeley brings an innovative twist to the traditional English afternoon tea where the world’s leading fashion designers become the muses.

T

he A/W catwalks were bursting with sartorial sweet inspiration, from the beautiful florals from Dolce & Gabbana’s ‘Viva La Mama’ collection – recreating the dress of the season as a lychee and almond mousse with rose detailing – to the array of feminine pink hues at Alexis Mabille, reimagined with vanilla panna cotta and chestnut cream duchesse satin, topped with a large pink chocolate bow. Also stepping off the runway is this season’s hottest heel as a cinnamon Mary Jane biscuit, decorated with a sprinkling of delicate rose petals and sparkling sugar crystals à la Dolce & Gabbana.

Following the recent launch of her first store, Simone Rocha was a firm favourite with our chefs, who have turned her ethereal embroidered tulle dress into a vanilla éclair filled with salted caramel crème patissiere decorated with red sugar flowers.

Other fashion favourites include Moschino’s quirky cartoon-inspired nu-rave cream and orange financier dress and coconut savarin topped with a button of yellow and red chocolate. Alice Temperley’s flutura skirt becomes a gianduja chocolate supreme set on sable Breton glazed with chocolate mirroire, sprinkled with edible gold and a bright blue chocolate flower.

8 2 DECEMBER 2015

The Berkeley launches its Autumn/ Winter 2015 Prêt-à-Portea Collection with Dolce & Gabbana taking centre stage

Valentino adds a further splash of colour with a rockstud striped Victoria sponge shoulder bag with cranberry compote amidst multi-coloured striped chocolate, finished with a golden handle. And bringing a touch of winter warmth to finish the collection is Fendi’s double-breasted chocolate biscuit coat with red and brown icing details.

Head pastry chef at the Berkeley, Mourad Khiat says, “With the continued popularity of Afternoon Tea in London, we constantly trying to bring something new and innovative to the table with Prêt-à-Portea – showcasing how patisserie craftsmanship can be as creative on the cake stand as it is on the catwalk. We are looking forward to celebrating our 10th anniversary of Prêt-à-Portea next year as a result of its continued success.”

ABOUT THE BERKELEY In leafy Knightsbridge, the Berkeley, part of Maybourne Hotel Group is the essence of contemporary chic. With stunning rooms and suites, two Michelinstarred cuisine from Marcus Wareing, Pierre Koffmann’s French Brasserie, classic British dishes in the Caramel Room, fashionista fancies for afternoon tea at Prêtà-Portea, cocktails in the Blue Bar and the Spa complete with rooftop pool, the Berkeley is rich in pleasure and discoveries that will surprise and enchant.

Prêt-à-Portea is served in The Caramel Room at The Berkeley from 1:45pm - 5:30pm Monday-Friday and 1:00pm - 5:30pm Friday Sunday priced at £45 per person (£52 including a glass of Laurent Perrier champagne or £58 per person including a glass of couture champagne).

To make a reservation for Prêt-à-Portea call 020 7235 6000.

% FIWTSOI GSPPIGXMSR SJ ½RI FSRI GLMRE F] ;IHKI[SSH LEW FIIR created for the Berkeley especially for Prêt-à-Portea, and is available for purchase.

THE DETAILS For more information about Claridge’s, the Connaught, the Berkeley Maybourne Hotel Group visit the website at www.maybourne.com

HarleyFordGolf-Nov15.qxp 11/11/2015 11:34 Page 1

HARLEYFORD

WI NTER ME MB ERS H I P S – Want to play real golf this winter? Fed up with mud, mats and temporary greens? –

Designed for golfers who want to take advantage of winter playing conditions at Harleyford where our chalk subsoil and USGA specification greens mean the course drains spectacularly well. We almost never close and due to huge teeing areas we never need to play from plastic mats. Our greens are maintained to the highest possible levels and consequently do not need the same protection many other courses rely on in the winter.

WINTER COMPETITIONS • MAINTAIN YOUR HANDICAP PREFERRED CLUBHOUSE RATES IN OUR BAR AND RESTAURANT

Why not call Kate today on

01628 816 161 or e-mail her kate@harleyfordgolf.co.uk to arrange a practice round or for more information

Halamar Test11.pdf

1

12/08/2015

12:36

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

RESIDENTIAL | ASSET | DEVELOPMENT

CMY

K

WWW.HALAMAR.COM