Your way. The Miller Way.
Miller is a Swedish family business with over 120 years of heritage and nearly 50 years in the UK market, known especially for high-quality bathroom accessories. Several collections have been in production for over 30 years, reflecting a strong commitment to sustainable design and long-lasting quality. Designed in Sweden, combining timeless style with enduring function.
millerbathrooms.com
From blocked ears to persistent sore throats and sinus troubles, Beaconsfield ENT is here to help you feel your best.
Our friendly specialists offer expert care in a calm, welcoming setting, with convenient appointments to suit your schedule. Whatever your concern, we’ll listen, support, and guide you with professional advice and treatment you can trust. Contact us today to book an appointment with one of our Doctor Now GP’s and they can refer you to the Beaconsfield ENT team if needed.
Arecent report from Santander has highlighted just how common collapsed property transactions are with half a million house sales falling through every year in the UK. Nearly one in four adults said they’d had a purchase collapse, citing reasons like long delays, sellers pulling out and survey surprises. But while there are risks, the good news is there are practical steps you can take to improve your chances of a smooth move. B P Collins’ residential property team says it’s all about preparation and communication.
For buyers: Get ahead of the issues
Buying a home is the biggest financial commitment many of us will ever make, so due diligence is essential.
• Book a full survey early which can uncover issues before you’re too invested, giving you time to negotiate or walk away.
• Local authority searches, planning permissions and title deeds can reveal legal or environmental red flags. The earlier these are done, the fewer surprises later.
• Make sure your mortgage agreement in principle is solid and keep your lender updated with any changes. Financing hiccups are one of the most common dealbreakers.
For sellers: Preparation is key Buyers are more likely to remain in the process if you’ve done the groundwork.
• Title deeds, energy performance certificates, planning consents and warranties should be ready to hand over.
• Tackle boundary or legal issues upfront. A wobbly fence line or a missing building regulation certificate can derail a sale. It is better to resolve these before listing.
• Lack of evidence of planning permission and building regulations approval for prior works to a property is a common cause of delay and additional cost. Please collate all relevant paperwork as early as possible. If any is missing, please speak to your lawyer before taking any further action, as contacting the local authority can make the situation worse.
Protecting yourself from the unexpected Even with the best planning, things can go wrong. Do consider:
• What if financing falls through? Some buyers take out insurance to cover costs like legal fees if their mortgage offer is withdrawn.
• What if the survey uncovers hidden problems? If complex issues arise, such as boundary disputes, restrictive covenants or unexpected contract complications, a qualified solicitor will be equipped to advise and resolve them, keeping your sale on track.
Buying or selling a home may never be entirely stress free. But by being prepared, transparent, proactive and seeking advice from an experienced property solicitor who is familiar with the local area, will provide the best chance of crossing the finish line with keys - not regretsin hand.
For further advice, please contact B P Collins’ residential property team at enquiries@bpcollins.co.uk or call 01753 889995.
www.bpcollins.co.uk
Whether you’re a seasoned opera-goer or experiencing it for the first time, Garsington Opera offers an unforgettable encounter with music, theatre, and landscape. One of Britain’s most enchanting summer opera festivals Held each summer at the Wormsley Estate in Buckinghamshire—a private estate owned by the Getty family— at the heart of the experience is a glass and steel opera pavilion, an architectural gem. In a friendly and intimate atmosphere, guests are encouraged to arrive early to explore the picturesque grounds of the estate, which include landscaped gardens, a cricket pitch, and lake.
Nestled in the Hertfordshire countryside, Woodoaks Farm, Maple Cross is 300-acres of land with a rich heritage and a thriving future!
In 2020 the farm was generously donated to the Soil Association by Sally Findlay, ensuring its legacy as a beacon for sustainable farming.
This year marks an exciting chapter, as Woodoaks celebrates the success of a National Lottery Heritage Fund grant for the Black Barn Project - that sees the transformation of one of the farm’s historic buildings into a dedicated education and community hub. This new space will connect people of all ages and abilities to food, farming, and nature through workshops, talks, school visits, and hands-on experiences.
Get the chance to see post-impressionist paintings by Pierre Bonnard, Walter Sickert, Édouard Vuillard in dialogue with
radical artworks by contemporary artists including Zoe Leonard, David Wojnarowicz and Turner Prize nominated collective, The Otolith Group. The exhibition is also an opportunity to see works by some of the most exciting figurative artists today, including Toyin Ojih Odutola, Lisa Brice and Lynette Yiadom-Boakye.
This autumn, Discover Bucks Museum in Aylesbury invites visitors on a vibrant journey back to the decade that brought us Pokémon, Power Rangers and dial-up internet with its new exhibition, I Grew Up 90s.
Running from 25 October 2025 to 22 February 2026, the exhibition brings together more than 200 iconic objects and artworks that bring the Nineties back to vivid life.
From Teletubbies to Trainspotting, Lara Croft to The Spice Girls, I Grew Up 90s celebrates a decade defined by creativity, optimism and unforgettable pop culture moments. Visitors can revisit toys, games, fashion, films, music and television shows that shaped a generation — and even test their skills on a retro arcade machine featuring classics like Tetris, Tekken, Street Fighter, and Sonic the Hedgehog.
EDITOR FAYE MANNING
EDITOR’S ASSISTANT KIERAN BULLWORTHY
SUB EDITOR CHANG KAIRA
FASHION EDITOR BEN JONES
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER PRUVEE PATEL
ACCOUNT/ADMIN KATHY MANNING, ANDREE GEORGIOU
DESIGN & PRODUCTION BOB AMBROSE DIRECTORS PATRICK SMITH, RORY SMITH PUBLISHED BY
Faye Manning Editor
With over 100 stores to explore and endless dining choice, you’ll find everything you want and need at Eden.
FRI 5 DEC ’25 – SUN 4 JAN ’26
We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month
The finest schools in your area
Bringing you the best places to source those perfect gifts this festive season
Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best
Keep it local for everything house and home
– We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month –
27-31 OCTOBER
BLETCHLEY PARK
Fun filled family time. There’s so much to see and do this October half-term! There are exciting free activities for the whole family during the October half-term, as well as a thrilling interactive tour. There’s also plenty of wide-open space to run around and a park to play in. With so many different areas to explore, go on an adventure and uncover some surprising stories! Don’t forget, children under 12 go free!
The Mansion, Bletchley Park, Sherwood Drive, Bletchley, Milton Keynes, MK3 6EB
ROALD DAHL CHILDREN’S GALLERY
The Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery, packed full of amazing exhibits, is like walking into an enormous pop-up book. This unique Gallery, housed in a charming old coach house, is a short walk across the courtyard from the main museum building. Discover Bucks Museum, Chuch Street, Buckinghamshire HP20 2QP
25 NOVEMBER
DARA Ó BRIAIN: RE:CREATION HIGH EXPECTATIONS
Dara Ó Briain is back with a brand new live show! After the huge international success of his last tour, ‘So, Where Were We?’ which sold out 173 venues across 20 countries and was named UK Comedy Tour of the Year 2023 (Chortle), Dara’s new show ‘Re:Creation’ sees one of Ireland’s finest live comedians back doing his favourite thing: standing in a theatre, telling stories and creating madness with the audience. It’s guaranteed to be a very, very, funny night. Milton Keynes Theatre, 500 Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes MK9 3NZ
The crowning glory of Broadway, the West End and beyond, the international smash hit musical SIX makes its royal return to Wycombe Swan following its previous sold out run! Winner of over 35 international awards including the Tony Award for ‘Best Original Score’ and ‘Best Costume Design’, double winner of the Whatsonstage Award for ‘Best West End Show’ and a Gold-Disk winning album, this sell-out Tudor take-off has ‘an incredibly strong and powerful message’ (The Australian) and is ‘pure entertainment’ (New York Times). From Tudor Queens to Pop Princesses, the six wives of Henry VIII take to the mic to tell their tales, remixing five hundred years of historical heartbreak into an 80-minute celebration of 21st century girl power. These Queens may have green sleeves but their lipstick is rebellious red. Think you know the rhyme, think again... Divorced. Beheaded. LIVE!
Wycombe Swan, St Mary Street, High Wycombe. HP11 2XE
29 OCT - 22 NOV
MARY POPPINS
Cameron Mackintosh and Disney’s spectacular production of the classic multi award-winning musical MARY POPPINS is embarking on a UK and Ireland tour and is flying to Milton Keynes Theatre. Acclaimed Australian stars, Stefanie Jones and Jack Chambers reprise their roles as Mary Poppins and Bert, having both received critical acclaim and nightly standing ovations for their performances in the recent Australian production. Milton Keynes Theatre, 500 Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes MK9 3NZ
7 NOVEMBER
JON RONSON: PSYCHOPATH NIGHT
What happens when a psychopath is in power? Could you learn to spot a psychopath? Are you working for a psychopath? Is there a little bit of psychopath in all us? Following a box-office busting, sell-out tour in 2024, Jon Ronson’s Psychopath Night returns for 15 brand-new live dates. Don’t miss this unforgettable night of revelation, intrigue, and mindbending insights. With a chance to ask Jon your own questions…book your tickets now before they’re gone! Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury HP20 1UG
BEKONSCOT MODEL VILLAGE & RAILWAY
Bekonscot Model Village and Railway is the world’s oldest and original model village, opening for the first time in 1929. Bekonscot delights visitors of all ages. It is a miniature wonderland with a large Gauge 1 railway, where nobody grows up.
Warwick Road, Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, HP9 2PL
ALL YEAR
CLIVEDEN GARDENS
Follow in the footsteps of dukes, earls, kings and queens as you stroll through a series of impressive spaces at Cliveden, each with its own special charm. Enjoy yearround interest and colour, from the bedding scheme of the Parterre and the hundreds of roses in the Rose Garden, to Lord Astor’s sculpture collection and the impressive Cliveden Maze. Cliveden Road, Taplow, Maidenhead, Bucks, SL1 8NS
Whether you’re a seasoned opera-goer or experiencing it for the first time, Garsington Opera offers an unforgettable encounter with music, theatre, and landscape.
One of Britain’s most enchanting summer opera festivals Held each summer at the Wormsley Estate in Buckinghamshire—a private estate owned by the Getty family— at the heart of the experience is a glass and steel opera pavilion, an architectural gem. In a friendly and intimate atmosphere, guests are encouraged to arrive early to explore the picturesque grounds of the estate, which include landscaped gardens, a cricket pitch, and lake.
Each season, Garsington Opera presents a thoughtfully curated selection of productions, featuring renowned international singers accompanied either by the Philharmonia Orchestra or The English Concert. Already on sale to members, the 2026 Festival will go on sale to the public in April.
Each performance features a long dining interval, giving guests 90 minutes to enjoy a picnic or dine
at one of the elegant on-site restaurants. Many choose to bring their own picnics or order one from Garsington’s caters, dining on tables under ancient trees or in the specially designated picnic tents. Others reserve tables in the Boundary Room Restaurant, with a menu curated by Michelin Green Star winning Chef Will Devlin in partnership with Payne & Gunter.
Garsington Studios was opened on the same estate in 2024 and is available to hire across the year. Enjoying the privacy and exclusivity of Wormsley, this magnificent and flexible space can host impressive meetings, conferences, performances, filming, recordings and rehearsals. It’s also home to a programme of events which include concerts in partnership with Wigmore Hall, children’s performances and a programme of free workshops for both performance and off-stage skills such as costume and lighting. Income generated by The Studios goes towards a programme of free to access artistic and educational charitable activities.
garsingtonstudios.org
La traviata Giuseppe Verdi
27 May to 24 July 2026
Der Rosenkavalier
Richard Strauss
28 May to 29 June 2026
Il ritorno d’Ulisse Claudio Monteverdi
12 June to 25 July 2026
The Importance of Being Earnest Gerald Barry 10 to 23 July 2026
For the first time in Garsington Opera’s history we are delighted to present a Winter Concert series in partnership with London’s premier venue for chamber music and song, Wigmore Hall. Book tickets or view our full programme now at garsingtonopera.org/studios-programme/
Louise Alder & Joseph Middleton
Wednesday 10 December
Allan Clayton & Paul Lewis
Tuesday 27 January
Iestyn Davies & Oliver Wass
Sunday 11 January
Cooper
Sponsored by Thomas White Oxford
Friday 27 February
Extend your evening with a curated dining experience at the Studios Café. Enjoy a seasonal hot main course, followed by a handcrafted dessert and a glass of house wine. Availability is limited, so early reservations are recommended.
Nestled in the Hertfordshire countryside, Woodoaks Farm, Maple Cross is 300-acres of land with a rich heritage and a thriving future!
In 2020 the farm was generously donated to the Soil Association by Sally Findlay, ensuring its legacy as a beacon for sustainable farming.
This year marks an exciting chapter, as Woodoaks celebrates the success of a National Lottery Heritage Fund grant for the Black Barn Projectthat sees the transformation of one of the farm’s historic buildings into a dedicated education and community hub. This new space will connect people of all ages and abilities to food, farming, and nature through workshops, talks, school visits, and hands-on experiences.
Recent years have seen a passionate community of tenant farmers and creative businesses grow.
Golden Rose Flower Farm brings seasonal flowers, Rickey’s Alkaline Market Garden and Fruit Forest champions naturally grown fruit and vegetables, whilst The Whitby Family farmers rear their highwelfare organic meat herd and farm their 200 acres of organic arable land.
“An inviting circular walk starts at the 16th Century Black Barn and takes you through semi ancient forests and farmland”
Woodoaks is more than a working farm - it’s a vibrant destination. A place to walk and explore the wildlife and semi ancient forests. An opportunity to enjoy a craft ale at the Creative Juices Brewing Company or grab a coffee and cake at The Tea Shack. A chance to see the inspiring work of inhouse artist Romey Brough in her courtyard studio.
The farm hosts a raft of wellbeing opportunities from Yoga to Zumba, Bootcamp to Forest School. It also actively encourages people to get involved and find out more about volunteering and conservation activities that will work to restore nature and landscapes and help healthy communities to grow.
Now registered for weddings and available for private hire, the 16TH Century Black Barn and wider farm offers a uniquely rural and elegant setting for any celebration or special occasion.
Find Woodoaks Farm just off junction 17 of the M25. For full opening times, events, and private hire details, visit woodoaksfarm.com
Discover retirement living: ideas, insights, and inspiration from independent experts
12.00pm - 4.00pm
Tuesday 4th November | The Denton, Berkhamsted
Moving can sometimes seem daunting, so join us at The Denton, in Berkhamsted for sessions with industry experts who will share helpful tips and practical steps for making your move easier. We will bring together leading specialists in moving, finance, and interiors, including Auctioneers Hanson Ross and The Cotswold Company. Complimentary tea, coffee, and freshly baked pastries will be served on arrival and throughout.
Topics include:
Identifying hidden treasures around the home With Auctioneers Hanson Ross Decluttering your home with The Senior Move Partnership Reimagine smaller-space living with The Cotswold Company The benefits of downsizing Financing your future
The decade of Cool Britannia, Britpop and unforgettable style and music 25 October 2025 – 22 February 2026
This autumn, Discover Bucks Museum in Aylesbury invites visitors on a vibrant journey back to the decade that brought us Pokémon, Power Rangers and dial-up internet with its new exhibition, I Grew Up 90s.
Running from 25 October 2025 to 22 February 2026, the exhibition brings together more than 200 iconic objects and artworks that bring the Nineties back to vivid life.
From Teletubbies to Trainspotting, Lara Croft to The Spice Girls, I Grew Up 90s celebrates a decade defined by creativity, optimism and unforgettable pop culture moments. Visitors can revisit toys, games, fashion, films, music and television shows that shaped a generation — and even test their skills on a retro arcade machine featuring classics like Tetris, Tekken, Street Fighter, and Sonic the Hedgehog.
The exhibition is curated by cultural historian and curator Matt Fox, capturing the sights, sounds and spirit of the 1990s.
“Those that grew up 30 years ago in the 1990s - before smart phones, social media or reality TV - can genuinely state that life was very different then.” Fox says, “I Grew Up 90s is a time capsule of that era, seen through the eyes of those who lived it as children and teenagers.”
Sam Mason, CEO of Discover Bucks Museum said, “It is delightful to be able to take a trip down memory lane, with artefacts that so many will remember. It is also a little scary to realise that many familiar items that we grew up with now belong on show in a museum! We hope those who remember the 90s will enjoy revelling in nostalgia and that those who don’t will come and experience a snapshot of life in the last millennium.”
The exhibition is a chance to relive playground crazes, rediscover music and TV milestones, and remember the moments that made the 90s unforgettable. Come and visit with the whole family and get ready to exclaim, “I remember that!”
I Grew Up 90s opens on Saturday 25 October 2025 and runs until Sunday 22 February 2026. For opening times, ticket prices and booking information visit discoverbucksmuseum.org
Discover Bucks Museum, Church Street, Aylesbury HP20 2QP
For over 60 years, Copas has been raising award-winning free-range turkeys in the heart of the English countryside. Renowned for their rich flavour, natural rearing and exceptional quality, our turkeys are the centrepiece of a truly memorable festive feast. Delivered direct to your London home, each turkey comes oven-ready with simple cooking instructions for perfect results. Order now from www.copasfarmshop.co.uk and bring a little tradition to your Christmas table.
Contact: turkeys@copas.co.uk / 01628 499980 / www.copasfarmshop.co.uk
Get the chance to see post-impressionist paintings by Pierre Bonnard, Walter Sickert, Édouard Vuillard in dialogue with radical artworks by contemporary artists including Zoe Leonard, David Wojnarowicz and Turner Prize nominated collective, The Otolith Group. The exhibition is also an opportunity to see works by some of the most exciting figurative artists today, including Toyin Ojih Odutola, Lisa Brice and Lynette Yiadom-Boakye.
Curated by Yiadom-Boake, this exhibition brings together a wide range of works across painting, photography, drawing, film and sculpture. To Improvise A Mountain: Lynette YiadomBoakye Curates, invites viewers to witness an eclectic and transhistorical display of works by artists who, like YiadomBoakye, improvise, imagine and invent the artistic languages to explore themes of intensity, intimacy, identity and activism.
To Improvise A Mountain: Lynette Yiadom-Boakye Curates is on show at MK Gallery from 25th October 2025 until Sunday 25th January 2026.
Lynette Yiadom-Boakye will be in conversation at MK Gallery on the 8th November at 2.30pm.
Tickets can be purchased at mkgallery.org or by calling 01908 676 900
As the nights draw in and a chill fills the air our thoughts wonder to dreams of comfort food , casseroles slow braises and in my case the start of the game season.
Artichoke is fortunate to be located and the heart of the Buckinghamshire game belt with the very best in game birds & venison at our finger tips.
This month I have focused on partridge and this game bird is the perfect introduction to game. Not too strong yet full of flavour low in fat and delicious. Here I have pot roasted them which is a wonderful way to enjoy them and something that can be prepared in advance and will cook away slowly whilst you can have time to yourself to savour this seasonal treat!
Ingredients
Serves 4
• 4 oven ready partridges plucked drawn and feet removed
• 250g pearl barley ( washed then simmered for 20 mins then strained )
• 3 medium carrots peeled & diced
• 3 sticks celery skinned & diced
• 1 large onion peeled & diced
• 3 banana shallots peeled & diced
• 3 cloves garlic peeled & sliced
Method
1. Pre heat oven to 160c in a heavy bottom casserole pot melt the butter & oil and get the pot hot. Season the partridges inside & out then brown in the butter till lightly golden on all sides and remove from the pot.
2. Add the onion shallot & garlic cook for a further 3 minutes until soft Add the rest of the vegetables.
3. Add the pearl barley thyme, bay leaf and apple and stir well.
4. Add the stock and bring the whole pot to a gentle simmer.
5. Return the partridges to the pot laying them on top of the barley & vegetables.
6. Fit the lid then cook on the middle shelf for 1 hour 45 mins.
7. Check the birds are cooked then rest the whole pot lid on for 20 mins.
8. Lift out the birds tipping any juices back into the pot.
9. Re heat the barley and vegetables.
To Serve
Carve your birds and serve in warm bowls with a generous amount of the pearl barley vegetable mix spooning over any additional juices.
• 1 bulb fennel trimmed & diced
• 1 bulb celeriac peeled & diced
• 1 large cooking apple peeled & diced
• 2 litres of good chicken or vegetable stock
• 1 bunch fresh Tyme
• 2 bay leaf’s
• A good nob of butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil Salt & black pepper
Chefs Tip
Thursday 30th October 2025
This autumn, we are delighted to announce the next date in our Wine Event Collection 2025, in collaboration with the prestigious Hundred Hills Winery in Oxfordshire’s magical Stonor Valley. Join us for a remarkable experience marking the release of Preamble No.2, Vintage 2021 — now available by the glass at Artichoke. Your day begins with an exclusive vineyard tour and introduction, followed by a sparkling wine reception and snacks. Then, indulge in a Michelin-stared five-course tasting menu curated by the Artichoke chefs in the award-winning Chiltern Barn.
Throughout, Head Sommelier Louis Wilde and the Hundred Hills winery team will guide you through a series of exceptional wine pairings. Guests will also have the opportunity to purchase wines at exclusive rates.
Thursday 30th October 2025
11:30 am: Vineyard tour 12:30 pm: Sparkling wine reception & luncheon
£215 per person inclusive of drinks reception, snacks, bespoke five-course menu, wine flight, coffee, petit-fours, & service.
This recipe would equally suit a pheasant or 2, or even a decent free-range chicken Some diced pancetta added during the browning will add depth of flavour as would 200ml Madeira. If the casserole is looking a little dry add some more hot stock toward the end A nice Chianti makes for a delicious wine match or a low tanning pinot noir and even a crisp fruity ale all drink well with this first of the season slow cooks.
Tickets for this immersive culinary excursion are extremely limited so please book early to avoid disappointment.
For reservations: www.artichokerestaurant.co.uk
Time, Your Place For friends, family, or just you Relaxation, sunshine and everything in between
Luxury villas with private swimming pool or Jacuzzi . Clubhouse with bar . Two restaurants: Vivo Bistro and Amara Golf with reduced green fees . Heated indoor & outdoor pools . Gym . Tennis courts . Wellness, Hairdresser and Beauty Centre . Kids club . 24h concierge
Seven nights in a two - or three-bed villa or apartment with swimming pool or Jacuzzi ranges from £1180 to £4400 on a self-catering basis*. For more information and offers visit fourseasonsfairways.com * Exact price dependent on accommodation type, travel dates & GBP/EUR exchange rate. Prices correct at time of print Avenida André Jordan 37 | Quinta do Lago | Algarve | Portugal | Tel: +351 289 357 667 www.fourseasonsfairways.com | reservations@fairwaysdirect.com @fourseasonsfairways
When the summer crowds retreat and the Algarve settles into its gentler rhythm, a subtler side of Portugal’s southern coast comes alive. Bathed in soft light and stillness, this is a season of space, warmth and indulgence, cherished by locals and sought out by travellers who know the magic of visiting when life slows down. At the heart of Quinta do Lago, Four Seasons Fairways offers the perfect sanctuary from which to experience it all.
Through Autumn and into Winter, the Algarve reveals its quieter charms. The weather softens to a comfortable warmth, perfect for long walks, leisurely afternoons outdoors, and unhurried meals al fresco. Empty beaches stretch for miles, trails wind quietly through pine forests and the sunsets feel endless. With fewer crowds, every moment is easier, calmer, more indulgent.
At Four Seasons Fairways, that rhythm is woven into the very design. The villa-style accommodation balances the privacy of a retreat
with the thoughtful service of a boutique hotel. Spacious, beautifully appointed and complete with private pools or Jacuzzis, each home-from-home invites you to linger. It’s the kind of place where morning coffee on the terrace feels like a ritual and evenings can be as simple as preparing local produce in your own kitchen or letting someone else do the cooking entirely.
Wellness here is unrushed and deeply restorative. The indoor pool, sauna and serene treatment rooms are made for moments of reset, while yoga, Pilates and fitness classes are there when you crave movement. Nothing hurried, nothing forced. Food takes centre stage in this slower season. At VIVO, breakfast stretches into the day with seasonal fruit, fresh juices and expertly made coffee. Dinner at Amara feels quietly elegant, with refined takes on Portuguese flavours, panoramic views and
Seven nights at Four Seasons Fairways, staying in a two - or three-bed villa or apartment with swimming pool or Jacuzzi ranges from £1180 to £4408 on a selfcatering basis, based on travel in 2026.
fourseasonsfairways.com; visitalgarve.pt
wines from across the region. Beyond the resort, dining is a lingering affair, long seafood lunches overlooking the ocean, or wine-soaked evenings that unfold at their own pace.
This is also the perfect time for discovery. Nearby, Loulé Criativo invites you to step into the world of artisans: weaving palm and cane, crafting ceramics or jewellery, or learning how figs are transformed into delicate sweet and savoury creations. Wine lovers can join the grape harvest at Quinta da Tôr, while cultural explorers can wander the watermills of the Pólo Museológico da Água or the studios of the Palácio Gama Lobo, where creativity is celebrated in all its forms. And for those who prefer the outdoors, there are worldclass golf courses, peaceful boardwalks across the Ria Formosa, and endless coastal paths alive with migrating birds.
This season in the Algarve isn’t about doing more, it’s about feeling more. It’s time to embrace space, breathe deeper and rediscover the pleasure of simple things: a sunset glass of wine, a handmade keepsake, or the quiet luxury of a day lived entirely at your own pace. At Four Seasons Fairways, every detail is designed to let you sink into that rhythm. The Algarve’s quiet season lingers long in memory, an invitation to slow down, savour, and return to what matters most.
Is your family facing a 40% Inheritance Tax charge? Here’s what you could do about it.
Being charged at a rate of up to 40%, Inheritance Tax (IHT) could be a significant burden for your family on death. More estates are being affected by IHT, with HMRC taking a record-breaking £8.2 billion in 2024/25. Could that figure climb even higher next year?
That’s why it’s crucial to understand how IHT works, and what you can do to help reduce the problem.
Your beneficiaries could inherit up to £1 million tax-free
Before IHT is due, you have an IHT nil-rate band (£325,000 in 2025/26). Your beneficiaries could also claim the residence nil-rate band (up to £175,000 in 2025/26) if you pass your main residence to direct descendants.
This means you can pass on up to £500,000 IHT-free. Your spouse or civil partner also inherits your entire estate tax-free, and your unused nil-rate bands. So, together, you could pass on up to £1 million free from tax.
However, if you have significant wealth, these thresholds may not go as far as you think. Plus, pensions (which are currently exempt from IHT) are set to be included in estates from April 2027, potentially increasing the possibility of a charge.
3 steps you could take to mitigate Inheritance Tax
1. Gifting wealth now. Most likely making use of a suitable trust, you can give away capital now.
2. Gifts from surplus income. Regular gifts from surplus income are not usually liable for IHT.
3. Life insurance in trust. Leaving a life insurance policy in trust provides a tax-free lump sum that your beneficiaries can use to settle an IHT bill.
We can help you plan for Inheritance Tax Mistakes in IHT planning can be costly and time-consuming. That’s why working with a financial adviser is so useful, helping you make the right decisions for your family.
At AGILITY Financial Advisers, we can design a bespoke plan that mitigates IHT, so your loved ones are the biggest beneficiaries of all your hard work.
To find out more, please call 01494 680848 or email hello@agilityfinancial.co.uk, or visit us at our Amersham office on Hill Avenue. www.agilityfinancial.co.uk
“We
can design a bespoke plan that mitigates IHT, so your loved ones are the biggest beneficiaries of all your hard work.”
Blaser Mills has significantly increased its presence in Marlow. The Buckinghamshire based firm has tripled the size of its office space in the town.
The office at Liston Exchange in central Marlow will now be the firm’s headquarters and will be home to 80 of Blaser Mills’ 140 personnel. At the same time, the firm is also upgrading its established presences in High Wycombe and Amersham.
The Marlow office is in a prime location to serve the firm’s ever-growing local client base. It has a dedicated suite of meeting spaces for clients and has been designed to fully accommodate modern, flexible working practices for staff. Blaser Mills followed their approach of using local providers wherever possible, employing the services of Buckinghamshire-based Miles Shepherd for the fit out.
The move forms part of the firm’s overall vision, encompassing multi-million pound investment into premises and IT projects over the next 24 months; enhancing the experience of clients and its employees.
“Four years ago we viewed the large premises at Liston Exchange and felt that it was the perfect location for us but was too early to move such a large part of the firm’s operation. Thanks to the exceptional performance and growth of the firm over the last few years we now find ourselves moving into these new modern offices.
Marlow has become a key location for us, both in terms of the work we do and the clients we support. Expanding here allows us to continue
growing, based in a space that better supports our people and the high standards of service we aim to deliver.”
The Marlow headquarters offers the firm’s full range of legal services, including:
Residential property
Wills, trusts and probate
Family & divorce
Child care
Crime
PI & medical negligence
Private litigation
Corporate & commercial
Dispute resolution
Employment
Litigation
Property development
Real estate
Sport
Blaser Mills Law is now firmly established as Marlow’s law firm and looks forward to welcoming both existing and new clients to its office.
Dave Matthews CEO
Grandparents often play a vital role in the lives of their grandchildren, offering love, stability, and a connection to family history. Yet, when family relationships break down—through separation, divorce, or conflict—grandparents can sometimes find themselves excluded from their grandchildren’s lives. This can be painful not only for the grandparents, but also for the children, who lose a valuable source of care and support.
In the UK, grandparents do not have an automatic legal right to see their grandchildren. However, the law does recognise the importance of these relationships. Grandparents can apply to the court for permission to seek contact, and courts will generally look favourably on applications where it is clear that contact is in the best interests of the child. The guiding principle is always the welfare of the child, not the wishes of the adults.
The best way forward is usually to resolve matters without resorting to court. Family mediation, negotiation, and careful legal guidance can help
families find solutions that work for everyone—ensuring children maintain strong bonds with their grandparents while minimising conflict. Seeking professional advice early can prevent misunderstandings from escalating and preserve family relationships for the long term.
As family lawyers, we understand both the emotional and legal complexities of these situations. We work to protect children’s wellbeing while supporting grandparents in maintaining meaningful involvement in their grandchildren’s lives.
If you are facing difficulties, we encourage you to seek advice and explore your options before matters become more entrenched.
We offer a free initial consultation to help you understand your legal position and explore the best path forward.
Get in touch today at: beaconsfield@kjsmith.co.uk or call on 01494 629000 to book your free consultation.
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Adolescence is a formative, and often vulnerable, stage of life when young people are beginning to question who they are, what they stand for, and how they fit into the world around them. For teenage boys in particular, these years are often marked by pressure – pressure to achieve, to perform, to fit in, and to embody certain stereotypes of masculinity.
“Our four values create identity, focus, unity and drive. They explain what we belong to, what is important to us, what holds us together and why our collective efforts matter”
Head Master, Alastair Land
The choice of school for your son, therefore, is critical to help shape his character and morals, and to ensure that, when he leaves school, he has the confidence and the humility to take his place in, and contribute to, society.
Harrow School has a long and impressive history of nurturing generations of young men. Its 326-acre leafy estate in Harrow on the Hill provides a safe and secure environment where boys grow together in a place where the school’s values of Courage, Honour, Humility and Fellowship permeate everything they do Head Master, Alastair Land, explains why he believes a values-led education is vital in giving boys a sense of identity and a good moral compass. “Our four values create identity, focus, unity and drive. They explain what we belong to, what is important to us, what holds us together and why our collective efforts matter.
“In our context, their meanings are replete with much more than their dictionary definitions, just as the word ‘Harrow’ means more than just a school. Outwardly, they give a sense of the distinctive quality
of Harrow School and express what we think is important. A school that values courage, honour, humility and fellowship is a school at its best: one deserving of the name ‘Harrow’ and one to which we aspire. It is an unparalleled holistic education.”
Founded in 1572 under a royal charter from Queen Elizabeth I, Harrow soon became one of the greatest schools in the country, attracting pupils from all over the world. All boys board, living together in one of 12 Houses and under the care of a House Master, Assistant House Master, Matron and Tutor. Through the fellowship of the boarding model, boys learn to respect each other and value differences, to be kind and inclusive and ultimately go on to develop a lifetime of friendships.
“Such a close community enables boys to build binding, constructive relationships that help us all to make a positive contribution,” explains the School’s Director of Pastoral Care, Simon Taylor. “They learn to respect each other and to value their differences; they learn the importance of displaying the behaviours they would like to see in others and they only ask of others what they would be prepared to do themselves.”
With all beaks (the school’s term for teachers) also living on the Hill, the whole day is used productively with groups and societies meeting every day after prep and at weekends. The vast range of activities on offer ensures boys are kept busy and fully immersed in the richness of a Harrow education. Whether they are part of the Harrow Rifle Corps, preparing to address their peers at one of the 80 clubs and societies on a subject about which they are passionate, experiencing the thrill of Harrow football – the School’s version of football – or helping young people through the work of the School’s Shaftesbury Enterprise, boys are encouraged to face everything with Courage, Humility and Honour.
“Knowledge is a powerful tool, but combined with a valuesled education, schools can help boys uncover the talents, skills and value to be of good influence beyond their school days”
In an age where children are bombarded with conflicting messages – from social media, peer groups and cultural expectations – Harrow believes a consistent set of guiding values helps boys to develop a sense of identity that is authentic rather than reactive, rooted in principles that endure when trends and pressures fade.
“Knowledge is a powerful tool, but combined with a values-led education, schools can help boys uncover the talents, skills and value to be of good influence beyond their school days,” says Mr Land.
The Harrow School Values
Courage encourages us to innovate and take risks, inspiring change for the better. It means challenging adversity and complacency, making the most of opportunities, putting fear of failure to one side and staying the course, even when it is difficult. Honour is about doing the right thing, having the highest standards and leading by example. It involves taking responsibility and, ultimately, is what makes us worthy of the trust of others.
Humility asks us to recognise that we are a work in progress and that struggling with our own weaknesses is essential to growth. Humility increases our awareness that talent and achievement alone, however impressive, are not sufficient to succeed as a human being – and that none of us is at the centre of the universe.
Fellowship means building binding, constructive relationships that help us all to make a positive contribution. This is resonant with our belief that the strongest relationships of all are based on faith, hope and love.
Read more at: www.harrowschool.org.uk/ welcome-to-harrow/from-the-head-master
Leighton Park School offers an exceptional values-led education where every individual is empowered to flourish. Academic excellence is nurtured through an innovative, futureready curriculum, enriched by outstanding opportunities for personal development. We inspire courageous thinkers and doers – young people with the character and confidence to imagine and shape a better world.
We give our Quaker values currency and purpose, believing in the powerful potential of each individual and nurturing a community of kindness. At Leighton Park you won’t just succeed – you’ll succeed as your authentic self. With a sense of responsibility, a commitment to helping others and a determination to make a difference. We’ll support you to develop a strong sense of self, with the strength to lead with empathy and conviction. Leighton Park is the only school in England to be recognised by the Independent Schools Inspectorate as having a Significant Strength for its values-led approach.
Find your voice
At Leighton Park, it’s about much more than just learning, it’s about becoming who you’re meant to be. That means pushing yourself, not being afraid to fail and taking every opportunity – all within a supportive community that’s got your back. We’ve won the national ISA Award for Pupil Personal Development so however you
“At Leighton Park, it’s about much more than just learning, it’s about becoming who you’re meant to be”
want to shine, we’ll help you shine bright. We’ll give you the freedom to fully explore your talents and dreams, to satisfy your curiosity and become the best version of yourself.
As Yamaha’s only Flagship Music Education Partner in Europe we provide exceptional opportunities across the performing arts. Our Sport for All approach and with over 90+ co-curricular activities available, our personal development programmes lead the sector.
We won the Independent Schools Association Award for Future Readiness 2024-25 and in a world of by-standers, we choose to make a difference. We combine critical thinking with creativity and innovation – all in real-world, interdisciplinary learning. You will gain the skills to understand the complex problems you see around you in the world and the tools to work with others to create solutions – everything you need, in short, to be changemakers.
www.leightonpark.com
Success doesn’t look the same for every child… and at Clayesmore, that’s the point.
Set in the heart of Dorset, Clayesmore has spent over 130 years helping young people uncover what success means to them.
Academic excellence is just one part of a wider educational journey that supports personal growth, confidence and self-belief.
This is a school where every person is known – not just by name, but for who they are. Teachers take time to understand each child’s strengths, challenges and aspirations, creating an environment where individuals are seen, supported and encouraged to thrive.
“Our daughter arrived reserved and unsure. Two years later, she left with top results”
The journey begins in the Prep School, where a structured and nurturing setting gives younger individuals a strong foundation. Early access to specialist teaching in subjects like art, music, languages and sport sets the tone for a rich and balanced education.
As they move into the Senior School, they encounter a curriculum that challenges and inspires. From the creative arts and sciences to sport and outdoor education, there’s space for every individual to shine. The LEX enrichment programme and Duke of Edinburgh’s Award offer meaningful opportunities to stretch beyond the classroom, helping young people build resilience, leadership and independence.
In the Sixth Form, students choose from a broad selection of A-levels and BTECs, taught in small
groups with expert guidance. The end result? Strong exam outcomes, alongside confident, grounded young adults ready to take their next step.
Individual success starts with individual attention, and at Clayesmore, exceptional pastoral care sits at the heart of everything we do.
As one parent shared:
“Our daughter arrived reserved and unsure. Two years later, she left with top results, her first-choice university place, a renewed selfconfidence, and friendships that will last a lifetime.”
Set on an expansive and picturesque campus, Clayesmore provides pupils with access to outstanding facilities – including a 25m swimming pool, an astro pitch, a state-of-the-art gym, and purpose-built laboratories and creative studios. This is a school designed to inspire exploration, giving every individual the space, support and encouragement to discover who they are and all they can become.
If you’re looking for more than results – for a school that recognises your child’s unique potential – Clayesmore is where they thrive.
Contact us to start your journey and see what makes Clayesmore so unique. Register now via the QR code.
As we approach the new term, it is now when thoughts turn to Independent School Open Days - allowing you to get a genuine feel for the school and whether on first impressions it is right for your child.
•Check on the school website if you need to make an appointment prior to visiting
•It is vital that you are prepared so read their school brochures thoroughly
•Take your child with you – their opinion is the most important. Children will get an idea whether they feel comfortable there.
•Talk to as many people as you can: pupils, teachers and the headmaster ideally
•Take an independent walk around with your child and chat about any reservations you might both have.
Some questions will differ according to your child’s age and whether you are visiting a day or boarding school.
•How selective is the school academically and what is the current pass rate for the common entrance exam?
•Are there high expectations and high academic achievements?
•Is the curriculum broad and well balanced? (you want your child to be successful but not too
“Take your child with you – their opinion is the most important”
compelled in pressure)
•What are the classroom sizes?
•What is expected of my child with regard to homework?
•Is there a healthy balance of fun and academia?
•Is there a bullying policy?
•What lunchtime meals are available?
•What sports and music facilities are available?
•What after school clubs and trips are available?
•How many pupils branch out into further education?
After the tour, you may have the opportunity to meet other parents and children on a more informal footing whereby the teachers and the head can answer queries over coffee and biscuits.
There is no shortage of negative press about education. Whether it’s Ofsted or pupil behaviour, exam results or provision for children with SEND, news headlines suggest that there’s not much good going on in our schools. Yet the reality is both more complex and more positive. Schools educate millions of children, providing an academic grounding and developing character and wellbeing. Most schools have an orderly and stimulating environment, with creativity and innovation. And the COVID pandemic showed that young people need teachers in a classroom - no amount of online lessons comes close to the powerful interaction of in person teaching.
Astra Teacher Training is seeking to train and nurture the next generation of teachers to make a difference for young people, both in primary and secondary phases. Based at Dr Challoner’s Grammar School in Amersham, Astra works with more than 60 partner schools in Bucks.
Teachers enter the profession at different stages in life. Teaching has become an increasingly popular choice of career with new and recent graduates; however, many switch to teaching later in life as a second or even third career, long after university days are over
Astra offers one year full time and two year part time courses leading to Qualified Teacher Status and a PGCE, taught in partnership with Bath Spa University, one of the UK’s largest providers of teacher training. It has an impressive success rate, with over 90% of trainees gaining employment in teaching and more than 600 graduates trained in the last decade.
Applications to start in September 2026 are now open but places are limited. Astra is always happy to offer advice and guidance on how to make a successful application. Get in touch via their website or email via hello@astra-alliance.com
– Bringing you the best places to source those perfect gifts this festive season –
One of the most enchanting Christmas Shopping Fairs in Hertfordshire is returning to the stunning grounds of Knebworth House this November.
Following a sell-out show in 2024, the Knebworth Christmas Fair is back in the Barns and Marquees at Knebworth House on Friday 21st, Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd November 2025 – and this year brings an exciting new feature; beautifully crafted Christmas Cabins.
Nestled in the grounds of Knebworth House, the fair transforms the estate into a festive shopping wonderland, featuring almost 300 stallholders including local artisans and boutique vendors and a whole range of Christmas treats including handmade decorations, inspirational gift ideas and tasty yuletide food and drink.
New for this year is the introduction of the brand-new Christmas Cabins – charming, chalet style stalls that capture the essence of a traditional Christmas market.
It’s the perfect place to discover that unique present for loved ones or some new Christmas décor for your home, while enjoying festive food and a steamy hot chocolate or mulled wine! Plus, with exclusive show discounts and special offers, you can cross off your Christmas shopping list while staying in budget.
“We’re thrilled to be bringing the Christmas Fair back to Knebworth with some wonderful new additions,” said Show Director Matt Upson. “The new Christmas Cabins add a truly magical touch and create an even more immersive and festive experience for our visitors. It’s the perfect place to find special gifts, enjoy seasonal treats, and make lasting Christmas memories with friends and family.”
The Knebworth Christmas Fair will run from 10am to 4pm on Friday 21st, Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd November 2025 in the Barns and Marquees at Knebworth House with exclusive early access from 9.30am for Premium and Premium Plus ticket holders.
Tickets are on sale now. Free parking will be available on site. Please note that tickets do not include entry into Knebworth House, Park & Gardens. For more details or to book visit www.knebworthchristmasfair.co.uk
“Creativity, curiosity and collaboration drive a lot of what we do here”, says Kate Marston, cofounder of Puddingstone Distillery – the home of Campfire Gin. It seems this might be a good formula given the distillery has amassed nearly forty international spirits awards alongside business accolades, and of course a loyal customer base since opening in November 2016.
“Whilst focus has always been on celebrating classic gin styles, represented in our core Campfire Gin range, it’s the additional product lines where things get even more interesting” adds Ben Marston (and yes, if you were wondering this is a husband-and-wife team).
The scope of this creative couple’s approach can be seen not only in the undeniably tasty gin but also the cohesive branding, all managed in house. Current collaborations include Box Moor Gin that uses rare Hertfordshire juniper handpicked from The Box Moor Trust land 13 miles from the distillery. £2 from every bottle sold is donated to The Trust.
More unusually, after nearly nine years Kate and Ben buckled to the demands of James Grant of No 2 Pound Street, Wendover in creating their first vodka, distilled with cheese. “It’s not cheesy, instead there is a soft buttery mouthfeel with a hint of salinity and sweetness. We have two bar customers using it in their signature serve vodka martinis and espresso martinis. I can’t believe it took us so long to release”, states a rather proud Ben.
The imminent arrival of Christmas will be accompanied by the annual release of PUD PUD
“The
imminent arrival of Christmas will be accompanied by the annual release of PUD PUD Cherry Gin”
Cherry Gin. This rather sumptuous tipple starts life as a gin based around Christmas pudding fruits and spice, which is then aged in ex-bourbon casks that have been packed with a liberal quantity of fresh cherries from Buckinghamshire based Horwood Cherries.
For those of you interested in sampling the amazing gin and vodka range, head to the distillery and shop based in Wilstone five minutes’ drive from Tring, open Friday and Saturday 10:00am to 5:00pm. Also check out the website for details of tours, events and of course over 60 cocktail recipes including their World’s Best Martini Challenge winning recipe.
Unit 1 Artisan Workshop, Lower Icknield Way Tring, Hertfordshire HP23 4NT www.puddingstonedistillery.com
Head over to our distiller y and shop on Friday or Saturday to discover and sample our full ra nge of gins , Never Say Never Vodka, gin gift sets, essential cock tail making kit and more
deliver y on orders over £8 0 at puddingstonedistiller y.com
Have you ever watched sunlight shimmer through coloured glass and thought, “I’d love to have something like that in my home”? Or perhaps you’ve always been curious about how glass art is made?
Welcome! I’m Suzanne Raffellini, a glass artist based in Chesham, South Bucks, and I’m passionate about sharing the beauty, creativity, and pure magic of glass with others.
There’s something truly special about owning a piece that’s been made just for you — something designed with your space, your taste, and your story in mind. I create bespoke glass artworks, from vibrant sculptures and contemporary panels to traditional stained glass windows, all carefully crafted by hand in my Chesham studio.
If your stained glass windows have seen better days, I also offer a professional repair and restoration service, breathing new life into cherished pieces while preserving their original character. Whether you’re looking for a brand-new design or expert care for an existing window, I’ll work with you to ensure the result is both beautiful and built to last.
“There’s something truly special about owning a piece that’s been made just for you”
to striking decorative sculptures. Each piece is unique and handmade, capturing the colour, movement, and light that make glass so endlessly fascinating.
Learn the Craft - Create Your Own Masterpiece
Fancy giving glass art a try yourself? Join one of my friendly workshops here in Chesham! I run one-day taster sessions, term-time classes, and immersive summer retreats for all skill levels. You’ll get hands-on experience, expert guidance, and plenty of encouragement — all in a relaxed, creative environment.
So whether you’d like to commission a unique piece, restore a beloved window, or learn the craft yourself, I’d love to hear from you.
If you’d like to find something beautiful right away, I also offer a collection of ready-to-purchase glass art — from elegant bowls and framed glass pictures
Visit www.suzanneraffelliniglassartist.com to explore my work and start your creative glass journey today.
How to turn your artwork into statement pieces
The right frame doesn’t just hold a picture in place, it transforms it. A well-chosen frame can take a simple artwork and turn it into a true statement piece that enhances both the art and the room it hangs in. Every project is unique and the balance between artwork, frame and space is what creates impact. Here are four key ways framing choices can elevate your art.
Frame Size and Style
The size and profile of the moulding can change the entire feel of a piece. A slim frame often creates a minimal, modern look, while a chunkier frame lends a more traditional, bold presence. Both can work beautifully, it’s all about matching the proportions and mood of the artwork to the frame.
Colour Choices
Colour is one of the most powerful tools in framing. For vibrant, colourful art, a simple or neutral frame allows the artwork to take centre stage. Conversely, when the artwork is more understated, choosing a frame with bolder tones or finishes can provide contrast and help the piece command attention.
Proportion and Mounting
The overall balance of a framed piece often comes down to proportion. Using multiple mounts or adjusting the size of borders can add presence and importance to smaller artworks. Getting these ratios right ensures that the frame complements the art rather than overwhelming it, creating a finished piece that feels harmonious to the eye.
The Power of Artglass
Glass is often overlooked, but it can make a huge difference. Specialist anti-reflective glazing not only reduces glare but also allows more light to illuminate the artwork, giving you a clearer, more vibrant view. The right glass choice can make your artwork feel brighter and more alive.
These are all elements that a skilled framer will take into account when designing the perfect piece for you. If you’re looking for expert guidance, get in touch with us. We offer free consultations with our designers, who will help you make the right choices and create a frame that perfectly enhances your artwork.
Showroom Based in High Wycombe at All About Framing, Unit 2, Crusader Industrial Estate, Stirling Road, High Wycombe, HP12 3ST T: 01494 459545 E: sales@allaboutframing.com W: www.allaboutframing.co.uk
Kitty’s Rawr Store is on hand to help you choose the purrfect treat, extra special catnip toy or delicious raw feast all for those joyful meows, purrs and nuzzles.
We are proud to be the UK’s first unique raw food specialist dedicated to cats 100% and is designed for cat keepers & lovers everywhere. So whether you are buying for your own pampered puss, or have a cat loving person in your life, Kitty’s Rawr Store is here for you. We invite you to explore our ever-growing selection of premium, tailor made raw food, natural treats, amusing eco-friendly toys as well as feline accessories and must haves.
Our goal is to give cat raw food proper representation and with over 15 years of knowledge and experience in the pet industry we have brought together all the very best feline raw food products into one convenient place. Pet care and nutrition is a true passion of ours and we are dedicated to educating new cat owners, seasoned cat keepers and feline fanatics about the nutritional and biological benefits of raw feeding, emphasising its positive impact on health, energy levels, mental stimulation, human/feline bonding and overall wellbeing.
With a commitment to quality, feline nutrition, responsible sourcing and sustainability in the pet food industry, Kitty’s Rawr Store is the go-to online destination for cat keepers seeking to provide their pets with the best naturally healthy diet that caters to their nutritional and biological needs ensuring that all feline friends receive only the best as nature intended.
Visit us meow at: www.kittysrawrstore.co.uk
Email: rawr@kittysrawrstore.co.uk
Phone: 07853535700 I: @kittys_rawr_store_uk
Bagpad is the best way to keep your handbags in shape in between uses. No more plastic or paper but instead a long-term, sustainable and elegant solution. Custom designs for Hermès, Chanel, Dior and Louis Vuitton bags and all other luxury brands. Can be made bespoke and personalised with monogramming. Handmade in the UK.
Bnagpad is the only brand on the market that provides a unique and elegant bespoke solution for keeping luxury handbags in shape. They specialise in brands like Hermès, Chanel and Louis Vuitton, but offer custom bag shapers for any handbag brand or model. Instead of using plastic or paper (or jumper or socks!), which is currently used by most handbag owners and even handbag brands (maybe not socks), Bagpad provides a long-term and sustainable solution. All handbags are best stored with a Bagpad to keep them in their perfect original shape and thus prevent any creasing in the material.
“The inspiration for the design of the Bagpad comes from the iconic Hermès Birkin bag, which is a bag that really needs support when it’s not in use. So the first Bagpad was custom-made to fit the Birkin bag.”
The Bagpads are available in premium velvet fabric and the softest, most luxurious faux fur available. They protect from excessive moisture to keep the handbags in perfect condition for longer. The velvet Bagpads can also be personalised with monogramming, making it the perfect gift for any handbag collector. Whether travelling, storing, or displaying handbags, the Bagpad is an easy, practical, and sustainable solution.
All Bagpads are proudly handmade in London and can be customised to fit any designer handbag by carefully measuring the bag. By protecting the leather from creasing and ensuring that the handbag is kept in perfect shape, the life of the handbag is prolonged. Bagpad is committed to do its part to save the planet: from using recyclable packaging and biodegradable materials, to supporting environmentally-friendly initiatives. By offering a long-term solution for keeping handbags in shape, the use of plastic and paper is reduced.
Shop all styles at www.bagpad.com or call/whatsapp +44(0) 777 507 7600.
Use code “LIFE10” for a 10% discount.
“All handbags are best stored with a Bagpad to keep them in their perfect original shape and thus prevent any creasing in the material”
Wool Bedding | Wool Mattresses | Bed Linen | Blankets & Throws | Beds | Homewares When the nights draw in and temperatures fall, it’s the perfect time to think about the cosy comforts of wool. From temperature-regulating bedding, to luxuriously natural mattresses, every Woolroom product is designed to help you get the best night’s sleep yet.
38 West Street, Marlow, Buckinghamshire, SL7 2NB 01628 472287 | marlow@thewoolroom.com Open Mon - Sat: 9.30am - 5.00pm, Sun: 11am - 4pm
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WITH ONGOING ONE-TO-ONE FOLLOW-UP AND EXPERT GUIDANCE AT EVERY STAGE, WE HELP YOU LOSE WEIGHT SAFELY, SUSTAINABLY, AND WITH MEDICAL CONFIDENCE.
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Because not one existed and honestly, that baffled me. A county full of people chasing wellness, yet no studio offering the real, fully equipped Classical method. Instead, a scattering of contemporary studios with a reformer here, and a token apparatus there, but nothing that truly honoured the system.
That’s where the vision took fire. With Shelly Woods, Founder, and Tala, Co-Founder, we brought Tru Pilates to Old Amersham, Buckinghamshire. I remember saying to her, “Your clinic, Skin Techniques, is where Tru needs to live.” And if we were going to do this, we were going to do it properly. No half measures. No compromises. Because what’s the point of doing it at all if you don’t do it right?
“I’m proud, proud of our team, our Tru community, and the fact that in just under six months, we’ve built something people genuinely believe in”
So let’s clear something up.
Joseph Pilates never called it “Classical.” He called it Contrology. Over time, the name got watered down, rebranded, remixed into whatever people wanted it to be. But at our studio, we teach Contrology. The real deal. A system that digs deep into the roots of the method and doesn’t shy away from its discipline. It’s traditional, it’s powerful, and it’s exactly how it was designed to be used. Modern tweaks, yes, but the essence is preserved. That’s what matters.
And let’s talk apparatus.
Tru offers everything: Reformers, Cadillac, Wall Towers, Wunda Chairs, Pedi-o-Pull, Electric High Chair, Ladder Barrel, Spine Correctors, Barrels, and High Mats. I like to call it our “Pilates gym” because that’s exactly what it is. Fully kitted out, unapologetically Classical, and built to deliver results.
Don’t worry – it’s all explained on our website! And yes, I can count left from right. Years of Pilates training (and more money than I care to admit) will do that.
Our teachers? Highly trained. Classically certified. No shortcuts. No weekend crash courses. No Instagram certifications. No made-up moves with zero purpose. Just years of sweat, discipline, and mastery. Why? Because anything less puts clients at risk and frankly, that has no place at Tru.
We notice our clients’ bodies, we correct, we teach, we transform. That’s what Pilates demands. That’s what we deliver.
And I’m proud, proud of our team, our Tru community, and the fact that in just under six
“Pilates
doesn’t always need to be understood, it needs to be felt. That moment when it clicks. What I tell my clients is this: it’s not about perfection in the exercises, it’s about the correction”
months, we’ve built something people genuinely believe in. Our doors are open to everyone: teens, athletes, golfers, swimmers, new mums, rehab clients, seniors. You name it, we’ve got you. Because Pilates isn’t for one type of person. It’s for everybody.
And here’s the part I’ll always hold onto: the magic.
Pilates doesn’t always need to be understood, it needs to be felt. That moment when it clicks. What I tell my clients is this: it’s not about perfection in the exercises, it’s about the correction. Let the body move with intention, and you’ll know when the body speaks. That itself is everything.
This isn’t a quick fix or a sweaty fad. It’s a journey. A system with structure, progression, and purpose. It sculpts, yes. But it also heals. It empowers. It transforms.
This is Classical Pilates, and Tru Pilates is proud to be the first to bring it home to Buckinghamshire. Tala - Co Founder
On Wednesday 12th November from 6.30pm, we’ll be marking “6 Months of Tru Pilates” with an evening in the studio. A chance to gather, connect, and share in the community that makes this space so special. We invite you to join us!
Daniel Lee tapped into retro festival-wear and countryside classics for his spring/summer 2026 collection.
For London Fashion Week, Burberry’s creative director Daniel Lee transformed Perks Field in Kensington Gardens into a dreamy countryside stage for his spring/summer 2026 show. Beneath a printed grey-blue sky, models walked across a soil-toned runway in looks that remixed Burberry’s heritage with a rave-ready edge.
Lee leaned heavily on the brand’s icons – trench coats, checks and tailoring – reworking them with festival flair. The opening look set the tone: a double-breasted tartan trench in mustard leather with chunky biker boots, equal parts aristocratic and rugged. Suits were softened in olive pinstripe with python boots; faded denim jackets layered over graphic tees; and a vivid green leather trench came paired with wraparound sunglasses.
Colours ran earthy – khaki, mustard, chocolate, washed denim – punctuated by lime, turquoise and tomato red. The classic Burberry check was no longer discreet lining but full looks in crimson, acid green and sky-blue plaids, styled with biker boots or sandals to strip away formality.
Accessories amplified the eclecticism: scarves trailing like festival flags, slouchy fringed leather bags, python and desert boots, oversized sunglasses. Crochet dresses in ivory and green added hand-
crafted softness, deliberately mismatched with sharp coats slung casually over arms.
The trench was endlessly reimagined –cropped in chocolate leather, fringed in sky blue, or washed in denim – often carried rather than worn to suggest layering and movement. Tailoring felt looser, ties skinny, cuffs spilling past wrists, echoing a bankerturned-festivalgoer vibe.
Lee’s balancing act is clear: Burberry’s British heritage is its strength, but relevance requires reinvention. His answer is a retro smartcountryside aesthetic – tartan and trench recast with colour, craft and practicality – an adaptable wardrobe bridging city and country, weekday and weekend.
Staged beneath an artificial English sky, the show positioned Burberry’s past as a living archive: pieces to be worn, mixed and dirtied. The front row reflected the mix, with guests from Twiggy to Skepta, Maya Jama to Princess Maria Olympia. For a house built on weatherproof fabric, this collection offered not just protection from rain but a louche new lease of life for British heritage.
A dedicated women’s health service led by experienced GPs and a consultant gynaecologist, offering expert, compassionate care for every stage of womanhood.
Every woman’s health journey is unique, shaped by hormones, lifestyle, and life stage.
At our Private GP Practice, we believe in treating the whole person, not just a single symptom.
Our specialist GPs and Consultant Gynaecologist provide expert care across all areas of women’s health, from menopause and hormonal imbalance to fertility, contraception, and sexual wellbeing.
We take time to listen and understand what’s really happening beneath the surface. Using detailed consultations and hormone testing, we help uncover the root causes behind symptoms such as fatigue, mood changes, irregular periods, or low libido.
Miss Grainger Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
Modern medicine, tailored for women.
Our approach is guided by science and compassion. We offer Body-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) that’s carefully prescribed and monitored for each individual. Every treatment plan is evidencebased, safe, and designed to support long-term wellbeing.
From contraception and period concerns to the menopause transition, our aim is to help women feel balanced, confident, and in control of their health, at every stage of life.
In the symphony of daily life, our senses serve as the conductors - orchestrating every conversation, every shared meal, every moment of connection with the world around us.
When hearing becomes muffled, when chronic sinusitis clouds our ability to taste, or when a persistent sore throat affects our voice, the impact ripples through every aspect of our lives. For residents of Beaconsfield and the surrounding areas, world-class ear, nose, and throat care is now within reach.
Beaconsfield ENT represents a new standard of specialised healthcare, where cutting-edge medical expertise meets genuine compassion for patient wellbeing. Their team of experienced consultants understand that ENT conditions aren’t simply medical problems to be solved - they’re barriers to living fully, communicating clearly, and experiencing life’s richest moments.
What sets Beaconsfield ENT apart is their holistic approach to patient care. Rather than treating isolated symptoms, their specialists recognise the interconnected nature of ear, nose, and throat health. The practice offers comprehensive ear care ranging from common
conditions like glue ear and infections to sophisticated procedures including endoscopic ear surgery and implantable hearing devices. Their expertise extends to complex cases involving cholesteatoma treatment and hearing reconstruction, procedures that can restore a patient’s connection to the sounds of life.
For those suffering from nasal and sinus conditions, Beaconsfield ENT provides both conservative treatments and advanced surgical interventions. Their extended endoscopic sinus surgery capabilities mean that patients who might have previously required referral to distant specialists can now receive world-class care close to home. The practice’s approach to nasal allergies and chronic sinusitis combines the latest medical understanding with personalised treatment plans that fit each patient’s lifestyle.
Throat and voice care receives equal attention, with specialists who understand that vocal health affects not just professional singers or public speakers, but anyone who values clear communication. From routine tonsillectomy procedures to detailed laryngoscopy assessments, the team addresses both the immediate symptoms and the underlying causes that affect vocal quality and throat comfort.
Perhaps most importantly, Beaconsfield ENT maintains the personal approach that can be lost in larger healthcare systems. Their commitment to individualised care means taking time to understand not just what symptoms you’re experiencing, but how those symptoms are affecting your work, your relationships, and your enjoyment of life. This personalised approach extends from the initial consultation through treatment and follow-up care.
Your senses connect you to everything that makes life meaningful. At Beaconsfield ENT, that connection is their priority.
To find out more about visit www.doctornow.org or call 01494 410888 to book an appointment with one of our experienced clinical team.
“Inspired by the shifting shades and textures of Scotland’s wild west coast”
These Whiskey Bamboo Socks offer a unique twist on traditional socks. Bamboo socks are also great for your feet as they are breathable, hypoallergenic, more comfortable and can last longer than conventional cotton socks. Bamboo is a also a super sustainable material meaning that when you wear a pair of these socks you are helping the planet one step at a time. socktopus.com
A moment by the beach, a breath of wind, a rockpool, an old green beach house ... Our new unisex Rockpool Scarves are inspired by the shifting shades and textures of Scotland’s wild west coast, rich with sea spray, lichen-covered stone and coastal light. Woven from 100% Baby Alpaca, each scarf has a soft, lofty handle and is hand-finished with playful twisted tassels. The subtle interplay of hues gives each scarf a mood of its own. samanthaholmes.com
Upgrade your outdoor essentials with our Luxury Alpaca Cushioned Walking / Hiking Socksdesigned for superior comfort, durability, and performance. Crafted from a premium, high performance alpaca Drytex blend. samanthaholmes.com
“Where twilight whispers secrets - handcrafted Welsh magic for the forest soul” The Investment Limited edition Enchanted Woodland crossbodynever mass-produced. Forest enchantment meets premium organic oilskin in this investment piece. emmaeaster.co.uk
Every fairy needs a magical box to store all of her precious keepsakes and pieces of jewellery. Lift the lid of this pretty box to reveal a heartshaped mirror and a spinning, musical fairy. rexlondon.com
Having carved out a loyal following in menswear, the brand will launch its first womenswear range for Autumn/ Winter 2025, with a considered collection of lambswool knitwear and accessories. The line-up includes five pieces in superfine merino lambswool; a crew neck jumper, a cropped cardigan, a rugby sweater, a crew vest and an oversized roll-neck, all in Poppy Red, Dark Brown, Ecru, Helford Green, Navy. There’s also scarves, beanies, hoods, and neckerchiefs - all crafted in England using 100% natural fibres, and spun at Todd & Duncan in Scotland, widely regarded as the UK’s leading yarn spinners.
British knitwear brand known for quietly luxurious menswear makes a natural expansion result is a brand rooted in integrity, provenance and enduring style.
The new womenswear offering is a natural progression - and one that’s long been requested. “We’ve had so many messages from women who bought jumpers for their partners, only to end up wearing them themselves,” says Billy. “We’re excited to finally respond to that demand - without compromising on any of the details that make our knitwear special.”
Simswear was born out of frustration with the decline in quality in garments that claimed to be “forever” pieces. Before relocating to Milan, Billy thought he’d found the perfect navy cashmere jumper from a high end brand. But within a year, it was falling apart. His deep dive into what makes great knitwear revealed a deceptively simple formula; great fibre, great spinner, great knitterand with Rory, he set about building a brand that followed it to the letter.
Since launching, simswear has become synonymous with everyday knitwear, done better, made from Merino lambswool, Supima cotton, and Nomadic cashmere, all crafted entirely in the UK.
Its Repair & Recondition service is free, and encourages longevity and reuse, while its smallbatch model ensures nothing is overproduced. The
Launching 1st September 2025, the collection will be available both to buy directly and knitted to order; a flexible model that reflects simswear’s commitment to transparency, sustainability, and fair pricing - and its founding principle of bringing people the best-in-class British knitwear at fair prices. Customers can choose to purchase items for immediate delivery at full price, or opt for a made-to-order version at a lower cost, which is a 40% discount. All pre-orders will be delivered within 2–3 months. This dual offering not only gives customers more control over how and when they shop, but also helps simswear manage inventory responsibly, reduce waste, and ensure every piece is produced with purpose. Prices for the womenswear collection start at £255 for the rugby shirt, which can be purchased for £165 knitted-to-order. Accessories start from £40, knitted-to-order.
For more information, go to simswear.com
Formerly the Assisted Conception Unit, The Fertility Centre is a longstanding centre of excellence for fertility treatment and care at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital. In 2021 they enlarged the Centre with a new satellite service at West Middlesex University Hospital, extending patient care and convenient access across West London.
The Centre provides a broad and comprehensive range of fertility services to their patients –including IVF, ICSI and IUI – but their areas of particular expertise, include the management of women and couples over the age of 40, premature ovarian ageing or low ovarian reserve, and male or sperm-related infertility issues.
Notwithstanding their expertise in these complex fields, The Fertility Centre continues to perform very well in its success rates. They hold one of the highest clinical pregnancy rates amongst NHS hospitals in the UK (please visit hfea.gov.uk for further information) and welcome NHS-funded patients and those seeking to selffund their care and treatment.
As well as treatment for those trying to conceive now, The Fertility Centre offer services for those who are considering their ability to conceive in the future. Fertility preservation through egg or embryo freezing is becoming increasingly popular and they can provide these services through their dedicated Fertility Preservation programme.
There are a number of reasons why you may wish to preserve your fertility:
•For social reasons
•Preparing to transition
•Ahead of treatment for cancer such as chemoor radiotherapy
•If you have been diagnosed with gynaecological conditions, such as endometriosis or ovarian cysts
If you are thinking about your fertility health for future years, they also provide a range of fertility assessments - with packages for individuals as well as couples. Alongside tests and assessments, expert clinicians can explain your results and advise you accordingly.
In addition to their clinical expertise and range of treatment options, The Fertility Centre understands the inevitable stress and anxiety of fertility treatment. They are committed to supporting you every step of the way throughout your treatment. This includes sessions with their British Infertility Counselling Association and UK Council for Psychotherapy accredited counsellors.
The Fertility Centre team is always happy to support you and answer any questions. If you want to learn more or are ready to start your fertility journey, please contact them on 020 3315 8585 or email chelwest.acu@nhs.net. chelwestprivatecare.co.uk/ fertility-centre
The Kensington Wing is the dedicated private maternity unit at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, providing women and birthing people with around-the-clock clinical care, comfortable en-suite private rooms and hospitality services.
Located in the heart of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital – part of one of the UK’s top rated hospital Trusts – your baby’s and your safety and wellbeing are reassuringly supported at all times. The Kensington Wing is immediately located next to the hospital’s outstanding and newly expanded Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and a consultant anaesthetist remains on site at all times 24/7, dedicated to the needs of our patients.
To ensure the safety of women, birthing people and birth partners, The Kensington Wing has important infection control procedures for staff and visitors to adhere to but remain welcoming to your chosen birth partner for all stages of your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay. Your individual room and en-suite facilities are a haven, and the catering and hospitality team ensures your stay is relaxing as well as safe. On the Kensington Wing the consultant obstetricians, midwives, nurses and maternity support workers provide care as a team and are delighted to offer both consultant-led and midwife-led maternity packages.
If you would like to talk to one of the team, call 020 3315 8616, email chelwest.kensington@nhs.net or visit thekensingtonwing.co.uk
The Kensington Wing’s highly experienced team of midwives welcome enquiries and the opportunity to discuss midwife-led care in more detail. These ‘meet the midwife’ sessions are always a relaxed and special time to talk and discover more without any obligation. For those women and birthing people who are appropriate for midwife-led care, the team provide full support throughout your pregnancy and the midwifery team are available 24 hours seven days a week for advice or concerns throughout your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay.
The consultant-led care package allows you the choice of one of their experienced consultant obstetricians to personally guide you through your pregnancy and birth. Your consultant provides continuity and individualised expertise throughout your journey. They build a relationship with you and your partner through the antenatal period to give you confidence to birth safely with them in line with your birth preferences. They continue to support you through the postnatal period, including your 6 week postnatal check. All consultants are available to meet you and your birth partner without any obligation.
The Kensington Wing enquiry team are always happy to support with these arrangements and answer any questions.
October 1st saw the start of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and local charity, Scannappeal, is inviting readers to help fundraise for a new state-of-the-art mobile breast screening unit set to benefit thousands of women in South Buckinghamshire.
Backing the appeal is ITV breakfast host, and Bucks resident, Lorraine Kelly, who said: “I’m proud to support the Bucks Mobile Breast Screening Appeal because this is about more than equipment, it’s about saving lives. By bringing screening closer to the women who need it most, we can remove the barriers of distance and time that too often stop women from attending their mammograms. This appeal will make the greatest difference by taking screening right into the heart of our communities.”
To date the appeal has raised an incredible £190,824 – almost half of the £410,000 needed, thanks to the generosity of local people.
Did you know?
In Bucks, during January - December 2024:
• 27,609 women were invited to attend routine breast screening.
• 815 required further assessment.
• 179 were diagnosed with cancer.
Scannappeal CEO, Karen Shardlow, explained: “These are ladies who hadn’t felt a lump, hadn’t noticed anything else unusual in their breast and without screening, would have been diagnosed much later and with potentially less options for treatment.”
Commenting on the need for specialist equipment, Dr Rosie Browning, Director of Breast Screening at Wycombe Hospital “Early detection is vital in breast cancer care, and thanks to the ongoing support from Scannappeal, the current Breast Screening Appeal aims to fund a new mobile unit, ensuring this life-saving screening service reaches women conveniently close to home.”
Donate via:
The QR code
• www.scannappeal.org.uk
• Phone on 01494 734161
• Post, simply send your cheque to: Scannappeal Office
Amersham Hospital, Whielden Street, Amersham HP7 0JD
Scannappeal is a registered charity dedicated to transforming healthcare in Buckinghamshire by funding state of the art medical equipment for NHS hospitals including; Amersham, Stoke Mandeville, Wycombe, and local community hospitals. Our mission is to bring the latest technolog y to our local hospitals, enabling earlier diagnosis, more effective treatment, and care closer to home for patients Over the past 38 years, Scannappeal has raised more than £20 million, directly benefiting 1 in 4 people in our local community. Thanks to this support, specialist hospital departments have been enhanced, new medical services introduced, and patient outcomes improved Every 10 minutes, someone in our area is diagnosed or treated using equipment funded by Scannappeal
Join us at our upcoming events all in aid of our Mobile Breast Screening Appeal
/Scannappeal
/Scannappeal
Join Scananppeal and The Sloop Grogg y Dogs for a lively night of sea shanties, maritime ballads and nautical fun on Friday 7 November at Ballinger War Memorial Hall Expect foot stomping tunes, rich harmonies, salty humour and tall tales! Tickets £15 or £27 with fish and chips th
Our popular annual Christmas Concert returns on Wednesday 3 December at St Mary’s Church, rd Old Amersham. Enjoy carols, uplifting performances and festive readings that capture the spirit of the season Tickets £15, including a glass of mulled wine
Join the Scannappeal Santa’s on Sunday 7 December for the annual 5K Marlow Santa Fun Run organised by the Rotary Club of Marlow Scannappeal is one of the chosen lead charities for this year ’ s event th
Celebrate the season with a delightful Festive Afternoon Tea, the perfect way to enjoy time with friends or treat someone special just before Christmas Savour a tempting array of sweet and savoury delights, while seasonal music fills the air with Christmas cheer Thursday 11 December at Ballinger War Memorial Hall. Tickets £20. th
Chiltern
We all get the occasional stomach ache or bout of bloating, but for some, these are not just passing annoyances. They are a constant, sometimes debilitating part of life. As a Consultant Gastroenterologist, I see first-hand how much gut health can affect everything from your energy levels to your confidence, relationships, and even your career.
One condition causing chronic gut symptoms that can be easily overlooked is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and it is more common than you might think.
IBD is an umbrella term for two lifelong conditions: Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Both cause inflammation in the digestive tract, but they affect different areas and behave in slightly different ways.
In the UK, over half a million people live with IBD, and that number is rising. Experts believe that in the near future, around 1 in every 100 people will be affected. That is a staggering figure.
IBD is what we call an autoimmune condition—where the body’s own immune system mistakenly attacks the gut. The reasons why this happens are not fully understood. Genetics play a role, but factors like diet, gut bacteria, and even the environment may all be involved. There is no single cause, and it is likely a combination of triggers.
IBD symptoms are wide-ranging and can be easy to dismiss, especially when life gets busy. But if you are noticing any of the following regularly, it is worth taking seriously:
• Frequent diarrhoea
• Rushing to the toilet (urgency)
• Stomach pain or cramping
• Bloating and gas
• Unexplained weight loss
• Mouth ulcers
• Rectal bleeding
These symptoms can come and go, which can delay diagnosis. People may be initially misdiagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or haemorrhoids. If symptoms persist or disrupt your daily life, speak to a doctor.
When it comes to diagnosis, we begin with simple blood and stool tests to look for signs of inflammation and rule out other causes. But the most accurate test is a colonoscopy which is a camera test that lets us look directly at the gut lining.
Understandably, the idea of having a camera inserted can feel a little uncomfortable for many people. But with modern techniques and the option of sedation, it is a safe, low-risk procedure that most patients find very manageable. During the test, we can also take tiny tissue samples, known as biopsies, to help confirm the diagnosis.
In some cases, we may recommend additional investigations such as an MRI or CT scan to get a clearer picture of what is happening in the digestive system. Occasionally, we use a small capsule camera that is simply swallowed. It travels
through the gut and captures thousands of detailed images of the small intestine, helping us assess areas that are not easily reached by other methods.
Once we make a diagnosis we can move on to the most important step making our patient’s life better. Our aim is to get them back into a position when all their symptoms are controlled and they get on with their life. This may be getting back to work, going on holiday, taking exams, getting married or enjoying retirement. This is one of the best parts of the job helping people gain control back of their day-to -day life.
There are many treatments now available which is good news so it is really important to get diagnosed. Initial treatments often include mesalasine, steroids and specialist diets (in selected cases). We can often start treatment on the day of your colonoscopy. However, some patients will require long term drugs that dampen the immune system called immunomodulators or biologics. In some cases surgery is required.
IBD does not just affect digestion—it can touch every aspect of your life. The uncertainty of flare-ups, the impact on your social life, even planning holidays or work commitments can feel daunting.
Mental health challenges are common, and it is okay to feel overwhelmed. But you are not alone. Many patients benefit from speaking to a specialist nurse, accessing IBD support groups, or even seeing a counsellor. These things matter just as much as medication.
If digestive issues are starting to interfere with your life, even from time to time, it is important to take them seriously. You do not have to settle for feeling unwell. If something feels off, trust your instincts. Speak to your GP or ask to see a gastroenterologist. That first conversation could be the beginning of finding answers and feeling more like yourself again.
Surrounded by 18 acres of the picturesque Chiltern Hills, Bartlett’s Garden Lodges provide a perfect blend of personalised care, tranquillity, and community. As part of Bartlett’s Residential Home—rated the number one care home in Buckinghamshire for the past nine years on Carehome.co.uk—these exclusive lodges offer a warm and supportive environment for those seeking the highest standard of elderly care.
Each of the four lodges accommodates just three residents, fostering a close-knit atmosphere where meaningful connections thrive. With a dedicated carer available 24/7 in every lodge, plus additional support from two floating carers, residents receive compassionate, attentive care at all times. Specialising in dementia care, respite, and residential support, Bartlett’s Garden Lodges create bespoke care plans tailored to each resident’s needs and preferences—ensuring they feel valued, empowered, and at home.
Designed to balance independence with safety, the lodges feature private kitchens and lounge areas, offering the comfort of home while maintaining autonomy. Each lodge also boasts a private garden, providing a peaceful space to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
At the heart of the community is the new Café and Gallery, a lively hub for socialising, dining, and cultural enrichment. Whether enjoying coffee with loved ones, celebrating special occasions, or exploring local artwork, residents have plenty of opportunities to engage and connect. A varied programme of daily activities, along with regular private minibus outings, ensures every day is fulfilling and enriching.
Bartlett’s Garden Lodges offer the best of both worlds: the peace and privacy of a countryside setting with convenient access from London and surrounding areas. Families can stay closely connected while knowing their loved ones receive outstanding care.
Experience the difference of truly personalised care.
TEL: 01296 747 000 EMAIL: info@bartlettscare.co.uk
Bartlett’s Residential Care Home, Portway Road, Stone, Aylesbury, HP17 8RP
Mulberry Court, a charming boutique style care home located on Gold Hill in the heart of Chalfont St Peter, has opened its new dementia wing—a welcoming, supportive place for individuals living with dementia Mulberry Court is proud to be part of the Orders of St John Care Trust (OSJCT), which has recently merged with The Fremantle Trust. The merger brings together decades of care expertise and a shared commitment to giving every resident the support, dignity, and independence they deserve.
With just 23 en-suite rooms, Mulberry Court blends comfort and homely charm. Residents here feel part of their own little community, friendships form quickly, and residents enjoy sharing meals, celebrating milestones, and looking out for each other. The environment is relaxed and supportive, so new residents settle in easily and feel at home. Manager Emma Cole says: “Families tell us they want their loved ones
to stay close to what’s familiar, with care that feels personal. We’re part of the local community, just a short walk from the shops and cafes residents know and love. We want Mulberry Court to feel like an extension of family life, with support on hand whenever it’s needed.”
What sets Mulberry Court apart is our access to Admiral Nurses— specialist dementia nurses supported by Dementia UK. Admiral Nurses provide assessments, run support groups, and are there for families with advice and emotional support. They guide our care team, lead regular training, and ensure staff are always up to date on best practice. Every staff member receives dementia-specific training, and our dedicated Dementia Lead champions high standards and fresh learning from Dementia UK.
Our care is built around each resident. Using our “My Life Story” online care planning, we learn about each person’s routines and interests, helping us match residents with carers who really understand them. This personalised approach helps residents keep their independence and continue enjoying the things that matter most.
The dementia wing is now open and welcoming new residents. Families, local professionals, and community groups are invited to visit, meet the team, and learn more about what makes Mulberry Court unique.
For more information, or to arrange a visit, contact 0800 988 8133 or visit: osjct.co.uk/mulberrycourt
Opening Spring 2026, Widmore Park is more than a place to live — it’s a lively new hub for Sonning Common. Rooted in connection, wellbeing, and shared experiences, we’re excited to welcome both new residents and the wider community.
Thursday 16th October - 11am-1pm
The Design Journey.
Join us for an inspiring look at how our Design Director has shaped the vision for Widmore Park. Discover how thoughtful design blends beautiful aesthetics with meaningful connections to the local area, creating spaces that are welcoming, functional, and built to support a lively community.
Looking to work with us?
Thursday 20th November - 11am-1pm
Understanding Your Entitlements. Meet Shakeel, our new Entitlements Advisor. He’ll be on hand to explain the benefits and entitlements you may be eligible for, guide you through application forms, and answer your questions. These sessions are designed to give clear, practical advice to help you access the support you need.
We’ll are currently hiring for roles across maintenance, housekeeping, hospitality, and more, prioritising local talent. Interested? Contact: georgina.ackary-hawthorn@inspiredvillages.co.uk
Want to learn more? Call us on 01189 145 944
Join us at our Friends of Widmore Park events at: Sonning Common Village Hall, RG4 9SL Book your place today! Contact: georgina.ackary-hawthorn@inspiredvillages.co.uk
– Keep it local for everything house and home –
Five years ago, the working week changed forever. Suddenly, our desks were mere steps from our living rooms, and the office just a short stroll from the kitchen. The world of WFH was born, and with it came new demands: spaces that accommodate both professional needs and the comforts of home. Before this shift, office furniture often felt clinical and sanitised. Today, it has evolved into an expressive element of any design enthusiast’s space. That’s why we’ve curated a list of WFH heroes, pieces that make answering emails and enjoying your environment equally stylish and aesthetic.
Eames Soft Pad Chair by Vitra: Eames, a name that surfaces time and again when discussing the upper echelons of interior design. In these lists alone, we’ve celebrated their work for its style, its timelessness, and now, its functionality. The Soft Pad Office Chair collection is the pinnacle of working interiors, appearing everywhere from TV screens (just pick any episode of Suits) to today’s home offices. Charles Eames once said, “Recognizing the need is the primary condition of design.” A philosophy embodied perfectly in this Vitra classic.
62 Desk by Gubi:
A piece of mid-century majesty, Greta Grossman is a name long cherished in Scandinavian furniture design. Her 62 Desk, now produced by Gubi, follows the fundamental principles of peak Danish design to the letter: a strong wooden presence, clean lines balanced with rounded forms, and above all, a minimalism that allows it to blend
Tab Table Lamp by Flos: The right lighting is, for our money, the most underrated element of an optimal working space. Numerous studies highlight its ability to boost productivity, improve both mental and physical health, and of course elevate aesthetics. With so many benefits hinging on getting the glow just right, we recommend the Tab task light by Barber & Osgerby. A firm favourite of desk dwellers since its debut nearly 15 years ago, it’s one of those rare lamps that delivers a focused beam of light without ever overwhelming the space around it.
seamlessly with a variety of styles. For a piece that needs to harmonize with the rest of your home’s aesthetic, it’s Gubi’s an ideal option.
Series 7 Swivel Chair by Fritz Hansen:
To quote an old adage: “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” Sometimes, it really is as simple as taking one of the most beloved seating solutions in Scandinavian design history and giving it a fresh set of wheels. Arne Jacobsen’s midcentury masterpiece is now under the celebrated stewardship of Fritz Hansen, and it continues to go from strength to strength. The Series 7 swivel chair edition is perfectly poised to be a careful collaboration of comfort and practicality.
“Sometimes, it really is as simple as taking one of the most beloved seating solutions in Scandinavian design history and giving it a fresh set of wheels”
The Haller System by USM:
Over 125 years of metal-working history are behind the design story at USM. So to say they’ve seen the world and its ways evolve is a bit of an understatement. If anyone can conceive of a new working reality and accommodate for it, then the Swiss storage giants can. Their flagship Haller collection is the optimal home office space saving solution, partially for its stylish and sleek nature, but most definitely for the level of customisation it offers to suit your every need.
Cavour Desk by Zanotta:
What’s the one thing you want to be when stepping into your working world? (Other than first in line at the coffee machine.) Dynamic. Shaping your office interiors to match that mentality is a key part of staying productive – you want your space to be as sharp and on-the-ball as you are. The Cavour Desk by Zanotta captures that energy with debonair lines and stylish angles, creating a “no Zoom call too long, no Slack message too confusing” kind of atmosphere. chaplins.co.uk
Laura Ashley’s Mayville Cottage Collection blends timeless English charm with cosy sophistication. Featuring warm tones, plush upholstery, and delicate floral details, the collection creates an inviting retreat. Vintage-inspired accents, soft textiles, and thoughtful patterns infuse every corner with comfort, making it perfect for relaxed living steeped in cottage style. lauraashley.com
The Douceur Bed is the epitome of refined design; the wooden framework features gentle motifs hand carved into solid oak, and the softtouch linen blend upholstery has double-piped edges that give it a graceful and polished aesthetic. frenchbedroom.co.uk
Based on the 1950’s design by Arne Vodder, the Hamilton Leather Scandi Sofa suits Scandinavian or Nordic style interiors. The leather sofa has an ash frame, and distressed leather upholstery. peppermillinteriors.com
With an elegant lime wash finish and four capacious drawers with simple round metal handles, our elegant Camille chest is the perfect way to store essentials in your hallway or lounge. Each has a handy shelf for extra storage, and fits snugly against your wall for minimal clutter. coxandcox.co.uk
A puuurfect cuddle-buddy for your sofa. Sit back with a cup of tea and our 100% lambswool Cat cushion to give you comfort. With a different colour-inverted design on the back, this soft-grey and off-white cushion cover (pad not included) comes with a zip closing and is machine washable. jjtextile.co.uk
At Azure Pools, water is far more than a functional element it is the ultimate expression of elegance, wellness, and bespoke living. With nearly three decades of refined experience behind them, Azure transforms gardens and interiors into private sanctuaries that fuse aesthetic mastery with environmental sophistication.
A Vision of Refined Escape
Whether you dream of an indoor lap pool, an artfully sculpted outdoor aquatic haven, or a hydrotherapy retreat tailored to your body, Azure approaches each project as a work of art. Their mission is to elevate your home not just in value, but in daily experience. Every installation is executed with unflinching attention to detail: safety, design harmony, and material excellence all converge under one signature standard.
The Azure Promise
What sets Azure apart is their commitment to integrity: “We only sell what we believe in.” This ethos extends beyond product lines to customer service, project longevity, and the cultivation of spaces that
feel effortless and timeless. With in-house servicing, refurbishment and maintenance offerings, Azure ensures every pool or spa lives up to its intended promise across seasons.
From Vision to Oasis
Collaboration is central to the Azure process. Clients are invited into a consultative journey from initial concept to final flourish. Whether your canvas is a sweeping garden, a compact terrace, or a bespoke interior spa, the team merges creativity with engineering, drawing from extensive industry knowledge.
The Ultimate Gesture of Indulgence
In a world saturated with mass-market solutions, Azure Pools stands apart by crafting personal water sanctuaries that reflect individual tastes and lifestyles. These are not mere installations; they are statements of refinement. As you linger beside a still surface, let it reflect not just light but your highest aspirations for home, tranquillity, and enduring beauty.
Artesian Spas: Luxury Rendered in Detail
Azure Pools describes themselves as a leading agent for Artesian hot tubs, offering a curated selection rooted in well-being, design, and performance. Their Hot Tub section highlights that Artesian Spas stand out for their unmatched quality, superior hydrotherapy, and innovative technology — each spa is handcrafted in Las Vegas with no corners cut. Central to their offering are the Helix and H2O PowerFlow jets, patented systems engineered to deliver a hydrotherapy experience targeting all muscles
azurepools.co.uk
Kitchen Home Interiors, based in Aston Rowant near Watlington, Oxfordshire, has built a reputation over the past 15 years for delivering beautifully designed, highquality kitchens tailored to your individual needs.
A family-owned company offering a one-to-one service from design through to installation and aftercare. Every kitchen is bespoke, crafted by inhouse master craftsmen and cabinet-makers Kitchens are handcrafted in the UK, ensuring expert quality and local manufacturing. The team emphasises intelligent storage, elegant design, and seamless integration of appliances and worktops
1. Classic Kitchens (German engineered)
• Proven, timeless styles with German precision.
• Customisable via NCS colour systems or traditional paints, featuring inframe and layon door designs
2. Modern & Handleless Kitchens
• Sleek, contemporary designs in a range of finishes—gloss, matt, textured, or lacquered.
• Ideal for urban homes seeking stylish yet functional cooking spaces
3. Bespoke English Kitchens
• Custom-made with real wood or MDF doors, dovetailed drawers, and painter-quality finishes (handpainted or factorysprayed)
• Boundless freedom to choose styles, colours, and finishes to suit your taste.
4. Design & Installation Services
• Free design consultations and home measures ensure perfect fit and tailored solutions.
• Professional installation by their own master joiners, ensuring attention to detail and craftsmanship
Customer Praise
Clients consistently highlight the seamless, stress-free experience and high-end results: “Everything from delivery to installation went as smoothly as he said it would … recommend him strongly.”
“Stunning, timeless family country kitchen … a joy having Kitchen Home Interiors in our lives.”
Over 15 years of experience in both German and English kitchen design and installation. Bespoke craftsmanship offering extensive choice in colours, materials, and finishes.
Commitment to storage efficiency, quality fittings, and full project support from idea to handover. Whether your style is traditional, ultra-modern, or fully customised, Kitchen Home Interiors delivers distinctively personal kitchens that merge style, quality, and functionality—crafted to last and tailored to you. kitchenhomeinteriors.co.uk
Expecting guests this Christmas? Get seating sorted now!
Christmas is fast approaching. And for those planning festive soirees, luxury interiors brand Olivia’s is urging hosts to sort their seating plans right away.
Faye Simons, Head of Interior Design at Olivia’s, said: “During the festive period, we often need to break out the ‘emergency chairs’ to ensure everyone has a seat around the dinner table. Office chairs, garden furniture and bar stools are often called upon, but actually, there is a more stylish solution.”
Faye believes the key to ‘emergency’ seating is to invest in versatile pieces, such as ottomans, pouffes and occasional chairs, that can be thoughtfully placed throughout the home and used all year round.
or somewhere to sit when doing hair and makeup. They can also be used in an entryway or in a window to create a stunning reading nook or window seat. Add a throw and a selection of cushions to make it look intentional and not ‘spare’.
Occasional chairs are perfect for seating additional guests at dinner parties, but choose the right one and it will command attention when not in use.
Ottomans and pouffes not only look great but are an incredibly functional addition to any home. Opt for one that is rich in texture, think leather, boucle or velvet, to add visual interest to everyday interior style.
Faye said: “Pouffes and ottomans not only look great but are really useful, especially in living areas. For everyday use, they can be styled with a statement tray to double as a coffee table, a relaxing footrest or tucked under a console.
“When guests arrive, pull them out for casual seating in the living room or around the dining table.”
The unsung heroes of the seating world, benches are ideal for dinner parties. But what do you do with them when not in use?
According to Faye, there are lots of options. Faye said: “Benches can be placed at the end of a bed to be used as extra seating in the bedroom,
Faye said: “Opt for chairs with plenty of character, think woven backs, beautifully upholstered seats, and they will look great wherever they are placed, whether that’s a corner of a bedroom, flanking a console or in a hallway to soften corners.”
Olivia’s has statement seating available for any occasion, with experts on hand to offer personal advice for every home. Discover the full collection at Olivia’s. olivias.com
Glowing Embers Abstract Wallpaper Mural from Alison Johnson at Wallsauce
Wallsauce.com is delighted to announce the launch of a brand-new wallpaper mural collection: Spectacular Abstracts by Alison Johnson.
Since 2013, Wallsauce has been transforming spaces across the globe with bespoke wall murals. This new collection continues their commitment to collaborating with talented artists worldwide, offering designs that inspire creativity while upholding sustainability.
Alison Johnson, the artist behind this exclusive collection, is celebrated for her ability to capture atmosphere, movement, and emotion in her work.
Originally from Yorkshire, her upbringing surrounded by vast moorlands and ever-changing skies remains a strong influence on her art. A former nurse, Alison draws deeply on human emotion, instinctively layering textures and marks to translate fleeting feelings into powerful visual forms.
Now a full-time artist, Alison creates immersive pieces using oils, palette knives, and mixed media, producing evocative abstract landscapes that range from quiet serenity to raw intensity. Her atmospheric works, now reimagined as large-scale wallpaper murals, allow homeowners and designers alike to bring striking depth and emotion to their interiors.
Alison’s extraordinary artworks are ideal for transforming living spaces. It’s a collection that perfectly captures the Wallsauce ethos of blending style, individuality, and sustainability. Visit the website to browse the full collection. wallsauce.com
British fabric house Linwood proudly introduces Omega IV, a velvet designed first and foremost for beautiful, practical upholstery. The fourth generation of Linwood’s bestselling plain, this Italian-woven velvet combines sumptuous softness with the strength needed for everyday family life. Omega IV is as durable as it is indulgent. Finished with a non-fluoro stain-resistant treatment, it shrugs off spills with ease, making it the perfect choice for hardworking sofas, armchairs, and banquettes. The fabric is also inherently FR, ensuring safety as well as style, while its composition includes 28% recycled content –proof that performance and sustainability can go hand in hand.
Beyond upholstery, Omega IV offers versatility. Its beautiful drape allows it to be used for elegant curtains, while its washability makes it a smart choice for loose covers.
With 154 colours in the palette – from calming neutrals to statement jewel tones – Omega IV gives homeowners and decorators the confidence to create interiors that are both practical and personal.
“Omega IV is designed for real homes,” says Barny Gloyn, Managing Director at Linwood. “It’s soft enough to sink into, strong enough to stand up to family life, and stylish enough to elevate every interior.”
Omega IV is available now, exclusively from Linwood: linwoodfabric.com
Just moved house and want to rescue your eyes from the previous owners’ colour scheme?
According to eco paint brand Victory Colours, opting for a stopgap colour is the way forward.
Victoria Yardley, Founder of Victory Colours, said: “It’s not an official industry term, but stopgap colour is the paint shade you choose before settling on your forever colour. It’s like a palate cleanser for your walls.”
According to Vicky, there are many reasons why homeowners might want to take on the additional job of a stopgap colour, the most obvious being the instant relief a fresh lick of paint brings.
But according to Vicky, a stopgap colour buys the homeowner time to make a more informed decision about their future interior plans.
And while some might see taking on two paint jobs in a short space of time as a waste of energy and paint, Vicky thinks it will prevent future
colour regret.
She said: “It’s all about giving homeowners breathing room to avoid making rushed decisions. Stopgap colour allows them to live in the home and see how the light changes in every room, before committing to a final shade.”
And when it comes to choosing your stopgap colour, Vicky recommends shades that will work in any light and give homeowners a calm canvas around which to build their interior scheme.
Vicky said: “If you want a safe bet, think background music and not the main performance. It should be a shade that supports your style decisions and not dictate them.”
From the Victory palette, she suggests Penally Stone and The World’s Your Oyster, from Noushka Design’s Cornwall Collection, or Bear’s Paw or Woolwinder for a warmer space. Victory Colours’ range of matt emulsion is available now, priced at £44.95 for 2.5-litre tin. victorycolours.co.uk
“It’s all about giving homeowners breathing room to avoid making rushed decisions. Stopgap colour allows them to live in the home and see how the light changes in every room, before committing to a final shade”
