Life Magazines (Buckinghamshire editions) August 2018

E.J. Churchill Buckinghamshire based gun makers, shooting ground, sporting agency, country outfitters and events

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AUGUST ISSUE THE TEAM PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD

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Editor Faye Manning ••••• Editorial Assistant Jordi Brown ••••• Sub Editor Kieran Bullworthy ••••• Fashion Editor Nicholas Peter ••••• Design & Production Lisa Wade ••••• business development manager Abi Gardner 07841 871 458 ••••• ACCOUNT MANAGERS Kathy Manning Ken Fleet ••••• Directors Patrick Smith Rory Smith

LINGERIE NIGHTWEAR ACTIVEWEAR SWIMWEAR

11 The Broadway, Old Amersham, Bucks. HP7 0HL Tel: 01494 725711 www.odettelingerie.co.uk Hours: Monday - Saturday 9.30 - 5.30

MONEYHILL.indd All Pages

MONEYHILL.indd All Pages

DA V O N P O R T N a t u r a l l y

D i s t i n c t i v e

I n t e r i o r s

Experience Classic English Elegance

DA V O N P O RT N a t u r a l l y

D i s t i n c t i v e

I n t e r i o r s

Experience Classic English Elegance

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

Colchester, England Phone: +44(0)1923 773906 celia@moneyhillinteriors.com

m o nd ea1yvMoneyhill hoi lnl ipn ot er Parade, rt i.ocr os .mc o m Uxbridge Road, Rickmansworth, H a Hertfordshire n d c r a WD3 fParade, t e7BQ d in 1 Moneyhill

or speak to C oUxbridge l cToh1request eMoneyhill sRoad, ta portfolio e rRickmansworth, ,Parade, England

01206 760773906 800 a designer: Phone: +44(0)1923 Hertfordshire WD3 7BQ Uxbridge Road, Rickmansworth, celia@moneyhillinteriors.com Hertfordshire WD3 7BQ Phone: +44(0)1923 773906 m o nd ea yvhoi lnl ipn ot er rt i.ocr os .mc o m Phone: +44(0)1923 773906 celia@moneyhillinteriors.com celia@moneyhillinteriors.com

28/10/2015 18:49

To request a portfolio or speak to

m o n e y h i l l01206 i n t e r i o800 rs.com m o n aedesigner: y h i l l i n t e 760 riors.com

28/10/2015 18:49

CONTENTS OUT & ABOUT

09

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

55

HOUSE & GARDEN

71

We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best Keep it local for everything house and home

0844 800 8439

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out & about – We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month – I M AG E : c o n c o u r s o f e l e g a n c e , 3 1 a u g u s t - 2 s ep t embe r

OUT & ABOUT

UNTIL 31 august

Family explorers: Fluttery butterflies and marvellous moths It’s a great time to see Stowe’s fluttery friends.

Pick up a free spotter guide from The New Inn at Stowe to help your family identify the bright array of species at Stowe. Booking not needed. Made for children and families. Dogs on leads welcome.

Stowe, New Inn Farm, Buckingham, Buckinghamshire MK18 5EQ

[events]

OUT & ABOUT

13-18 & 20-25 august, 27 august - 1 September, 3-8 September

SIGN UP NOW

TREK SAHARA FOR the hospice of ST FRANCIS We’re calling on any intrepid adventurers looking to step out of their comfort zone and challenge themselves for charity!

Well-known local cabbie Mark Twyman has signed up for this year’s challenge that will see him trekking 50km across dried up river beds, sand dunes and sunbaked plains before setting up camp for the night and sleeping under a blanket of stars. The week-long trek, which takes place from 10th-17th November, will end with a two-day community project in Marrakech helping to improve conditions at a local centre for street children, a medical day clinic or a home for the elderly.

If you’d like to join Mark and his fellow trekkers on this trip of a lifetime, contact claire.jones@stfrancis.org.uk

10 AUGUST 2018

UNTIL 31 AUGUST

Cliveden - Skippered River Cruises Relax and unwind as you glide along the Thames in one of our skippered boats. Our selection of boating options offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy the river on a 45 minute cruise down Cliveden’s Thames stretch. Tickets for river cruises can only be purchased at the Information Centre in the main visitor car park.

Cliveden, Taplow, Maidenhead, Buckinghamshire SL6 0JA

WEDNESDAYS - FRIDAYS IN AUGUST

Summer holidays with Mimi Join Mimi over the summer holidays for five weeks of fun activities. Each week we will be celebrating the Rothschild family heritage with a trail. Over five weeks learn about the five brothers, also known as the Five Arrows, and discover their banking history. Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon, near Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire HP18 0JH

Dippers, Drunks and Poachers Prisoners’ Tales Free exhibition in the courtyard on former inmates of Buckingham Old Gaol, gleaned from painstaking research by local historian Ed Grimsdale. This new information helps to build a picture of the life and times of 18th and 19th century Buckingham.

Buckingham Old Gaol, Market Hill, Buckingham, Buckinghamshire MK18 1JX

OUT & ABOUT

[events]

OUT & ABOUT

14 august

Terrific Tuesday - The Great Outdoors Join us and discover the great outdoors around our site and woodlands. Take part in a plant and flower trail, have a go at shelter building, try out pond dipping and do some cooking in our woodlands.

Activities from 11am to 3.30pm.

Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire HP8 4AB

20 august

26 august

Swanbourne Music Festival Scouting For Girls heading to Buckinghamshire village for Swanbourne Music Festival! The Betsey Wynne are proud be bringing the event, affectionately know by locals as ‘Betsey Fest’, back for a second year this August Bank Holiday. Set in the village of Swanbourne, in the heart of the beautiful Buckinghamshire countryside and just a short drive from Milton Keynes, Swanbourne Music Festival is a great day out for the whole family. Join us for a day packed with quality food and drink, arts & crafts and live music from local bands as well as chart-topping household names alike.

21 Mursley Road, Swanbourne, Buckinghamshire MK17 0SH

UNTIL 29 September

31 august & 1 September

Chilli Fest Throughout the weekend you can also enjoy live music, family fun and children’s craft activities as well as the opportunity to walk around the gardens and explore the house (pre-booking recommended). Don’t miss the hottest event this September!

With handpicked exhibitors, all passionate about chilli, the festival guarantees to bring you the best of local artisan producers.

Waddesdon Manor Waddesdon Buckinghamshire HP18 0JH 12 AUGUST 2018

Wonder Dogs: Dogs That Change People’s Lives People with disabilities and certain medical conditions can face a variety of challenges in their daily lives. Find out about the amazing assistance dogs that have been specially trained to help their owners and the charities that support them.

Buckinghamshire County Museum and Roald Dahl Childrens Gallery, Church Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire HP20 2QP

Smart Raspberry Cookery School, Leighton Buzzard Bread making Workshop Have fun making bread! We will be making: Cheesy Garlic Bread, Ham & Tomato Stromboli & Banana Bread. All recipes, ingredients, cooking equipment and packaging are included. This is workshop is for children ages from 6 to 15 years old.

The workshop runs from 10am-1pm, £35.

Stewkley Village Hall, High Street North, Stewkley, Buckinghamshire LU7 0EW

BOOK NOW

THE NUTCRACKER Be swept away on a magical adventure in one of the most famous classical ballets of all time.

Set to Tchaikovsky’s sumptuous score, the traditional tale of The Nutcracker tells the story of Clara and her enchanted nutcracker doll.

Vienna Festival Ballet’s production promises to delight audiences of all ages with its festive setting and light-hearted story. Friday 5 October, 7.30pm Box Office 01923 711063 www.watersmeet.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION FOR ODETTE LINGERIE A Becoming UK’s first Boutique Ambassador for Eurovet.

t Paris’s recent unveiling of what’s to come in this years world of lingerie.

Boutiques from around the world gathered to view the new collections.

Eurovet is the undisputed world leader for lingerie and swimwear, with international events in Paris, New York, Las Vegas, Shanghai and Hong Kong.

Eurovet’s trade shows are designed to bring people together; they are business accelerators, image catalysts, and sources of innovation and inspiration for the businesses around the world.

“It was a wonderful surprise and honour for Odette to be acknowledged at the largest Lingerie Trade Fair in the world. I have been visiting this fair in various roles for the whole of my career. It is so inspiring to see the best of the best lingerie and swimwear brands putting on a show for us to make our choices for the next season. The show is always so professionally and beautifully presented that it is a joy to do business there and I am always very excited when it is time to go to Paris again, it never disappoints. The fair brings people together from all over the globe who share a passion for this industry and I always look forward to meeting up with friends there that I have met over the years. I am very grateful that Eurovet has now put Odette

14 AUGUST 2018

on the International map and I look forward to fulfilling my new role of Boutique Ambassador !

“Said Liz Brighton (Owner Odette Lingerie).

“Liz Brighton at Odette was nominated ‘Boutique Ambassador’ during last UNIQUE by MODE CITY Paris 2018.

She is now joining the EUROVET international network of independant lingerie shops. More than 70 independent shops worldwide expanding since 2016 regions by regions in France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Luxemburg and the USA.” Said Claire Roux (Eurovet)

Odette Lingerie The award-winning boutique has now been opened for 2 years, in the heart of Old Amersham -specialising in lingerie, nightwear, swimwear and activewear.

Beautiful brands from around the world including La Perla, Stella McCartney and Melissa Odabash have been expertly selected for their quality, style and above all else fit and comfort. We cater for all ages and most shapes and sizes with bras up to an I cup.

To learn more visit www.odettelingerie.co.uk

“Eurovet’s trade shows are designed to bring people together; they are business accelerators, image catalysts, and sources of innovation and inspiration for the businesses around the world”

OUT & ABOUT

August at Chorleywood Bookshop August is a busy month in Chorleywood as we are gearing up for our 13th Annual Literary Festival, which begins on September 6th. Keep reading - you will want to get booking, trust me; we have a line-up that is not to be missed!

Help Me with Marianne Powers on Tuesday 4th September, 7.30pm at The Junction, WD3 5SG

“Nations are divided, but we citizens need not be.”

- Ian Goldin

Always Smiling with Georgia Toffolo aka Toff on Wednesday 5th September, 7.30pm at Dr Challoner’s (Girls) School, HP7 9QB

W

e feel more divided than ever.

Walls are going up. Nationalism and identity politics are on the rise once more. Thousands of miles of fences and barriers have been erected in the past ten years, and they are redefining our political landscape. In his new book, Tim Marshall explores the many reasons why we erect walls: wealth, race, religion, and politics to name but a few. Understanding what has divided us, past and present, is essential to understanding much of what is going on in the world today. Join Chorleywood Bookshop and bestselling author of ‘Prisoners of Geography’, Tim Marshall on Monday 3rd September, 7.30pm at The Junction, WD3 5SG for a gripping and unflinching analysis of the fault lines that will shape our world for years to come.

We are thrilled to welcome back bestselling author Patrick Gale and his new novel of boyhood, coming of age, and the confusions of desire and reality…

‘Take Nothing with You’ begins in 1970s Weston-Super-Mare with ten-year-old Eustace, an only child, who has his life transformed by his mother’s quixotic decision to sign him up for cello lessons.

Join Chorleywood Bookshop and bestselling author Patrick Gale on Thursday 6th September, 7.30pm at The Junction, WD3 5SG for a night celebrating this remarkable tale. Patrick’s new book draws in part from his own boyhood, as it explores a collision between childish hero worship and extremely messy adult love lives.

In the sequel to her bestselling ‘A History of Britain in 21 Women’ comes Jenni Murray’s new book ‘A History of the World in 21 Women’.

16 AUGUST 2018

Still to come in September…

Simple with Ottolenghi on Thursday 13th, 7.30pm at The Junction, WD3 5SG An evening with Graphologist Emma Bache on Monday 17th September at The Junction, WD3 5SG Afternoon tea with Kate Morton on Monday 17th September, 2pm at Chenies Manor, WD3 6ER

In which Jenni (who has presented BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour since 1987) celebrates great women from around the world – rescuing some from obscurity and shining a new light on familiar names.

They led while others followed. They stood up and spoke out when no one else would. They broke the mould in art, journalism and politics. Each fought, in her own way, for change.

Join us for this unique, personal, lively and accessible history by journalist, best-selling author and broadcaster Jenni Murray on Saturday September 8th, 2.30pm for an afternoon not to be missed!

As if we have not spoilt you enough, we have historian, author and TV presenter Lucy Worsley on the evening of Saturday 8th September, 7.30pm at The Junction, WD3 5SG. Delve into the details of Queen Victoria’s life in this marvellous new biography, published to celebrate the 200th anniversary of her birth.

Queen Victoria was a woman ahead of her time and lived the most extraordinary life. In ‘Queen Victoria: Daughter, Wife, Mother, Widow’ we are privy to an insightful and compelling account of this outstanding woman.

An evening with Chris Ryan on Thursday 20th September, 7.30pm at The Junction, WD3 5SG Literary lunch with Alan Titchmarsh on Monday 24th, 12.30pm at Chenies Manor, WD3 6ER

OUT & ABOUT

Concours of Elegance Hampton Court Palace, 31 August - 2 September

T

he most astonishing cars ever produced, Palace of Holyroodhouse in 2015, back to Windsor a line-up of world-famous luxury in 2016 and then finding itself a semi-permanent brands, and one of the UK’s most home at Hampton Court Palace in 2017, where it beautiful historic settings. That’s the very returns this year. As the Concours of Elegance has successful recipe for the world-famous Concours evolved over the years – always with a stunning of Elegance, which is coming to Hampton Court collection of cars at its heart – it has morphed into Palace from 31st August – 2 September. a celebration of luxury goods, fine food and drink, Presented by luxury watchmakers, A. Lange & wonderful music and superb displays of art.

Söhne, the Concours of Elegance first began at But it’s worth spending a bit of time focusing Windsor Castle in 2012, as the only motoring on the cars: the line-up is a veritable feast event ever to have been granted access to of the most famous brands in the the secretive and idyllic Quadrant. world; Ferrari, Rolls-Royce, Bugatti Since then, the event has grown, and Lamborghini all feature. But READER hosted at St James’s Palace in 2013, each car in the Concours must be OFFER: Hampton Court Palace in 2014, the invited to attend, and in order to get 2-4-1 get an invitation, your car must tickets be extremely special. An expert Concours of Elegance Steering Committee of motoring aficionados pick one-offs, rarities and models with incredible backstories to invite to Hampton Court Palace to create a truly special line-up of vehicles.

On display is an impeccable 1912 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost ‘Taj Mahal’, originally owned by the Maharaja of Nabha, featuring a special tropical electrical system, specified for its first role in life as a demonstrator for the Bombay Rolls-Royce sales office. Then there’s the 1935 Bugatti Type 57 Atalante Prototype, one of three currently known to exist. With its original body panels and engine, this 83-year-old car has covered less than 27,000km since new.

18 AUGUST 2018

“The line-up is a veritable feast of the most famous brands in the world; Ferrari, Rolls-Royce, Bugatti and Lamborghini all feature”

The line-up continues into the more modern era, too, with Jaguar’s 200mph ‘90s supercar, the XJ220 – one of just 281 built – and the 2018 Ferrari GTC4 Lusso ‘Tailor Made’. In fact, the standard of cars is so high that there is no judging panel – just securing a place in Hampton Court Palace is an enormous achievement itself. Instead, the owners of the cars themselves vote on which they deem to be the most elegant.

In total, nearly 1000 cars will gather in the Palace grounds over the weekend, as a selection of vintage Jaguars competes for the Jaguar Trophy, and modern and classic Bentleys fight it out for the Bentley Trophy. The Royal Automobile Club Trophy sees a gathering of the UK’s finest car clubs, from Rolls-Royce, Ferrari, Aston Martin, entering their finest vehicles for an opportunity to in a muchvaunted place among the Main Concours in the 2019 event.

All of these cars provide a unique atmosphere for a whole host of luxury experiences at Concours of Elegance, including three-course luxury picnics from Tom Aikens. The Tom’s Kitchen Deli British picnics – totally UK-sourced and locally produced – include charcuterie, cheese, fresh bread and strawberries. Visitors also have a range of other

TICKET OFFER We’re offering readers a twofor-one ticket offer to Concours of Elegance. Simply head to concoursofelegance.co.uk/tickets and enter the promotional code LIFEVIP to claim yours.

hospitality choices, including three-course silver service lunch, afternoon tea and a champagne reception by Taittinger.

There’s the opportunity for a bit of luxury shopping, too, with pop-up boutiques from the likes of fine horologists A. Lange & Söhne and their intricately crafted German timepieces. You’ll also find fashion brands, including Lock & Co Hatters and Henry Poole, and arthouses like Collier Dobson.

As if all of that’s not enough, your entry ticket to the Concours of Elegance also guarantees you access to Hampton Court Palace, the State Rooms and the Maze.

AUGUST 2018 19

OUT & ABOUT

Don’t build your house up for a fall M

any homeowners are now renovating and extending their own home to give them extra living space. But, before embarking on such a project, there are two significant criteria that people need to consider.

The first is planning permission – a requirement that fills some people with dread, especially as it can be a slow and laborious process. You may be tempted to listen to your builder who might maintain that permission is not required for the larger kitchen you want or the transformation of your garage into another bedroom. And it’s possible that during the building works, there are no objections from neighbours and the council’s planning officers don’t pay you a visit.

You may think you’ve got away with it – until you come to sell your house and if the council did not approve your plans in the first place, there could be a huge problem. In theory, the thousands you spent on extra square footage should bump up your house price, but without planning permission it could mean that all the investment and inconvenience you went through was for nothing.

Regardless of what your builder says, always seek advice from a property lawyer or your local council on whether permission is required before making any structural changes to your home. If boundaries are impacted or views are impaired, you will need approval before forging ahead with renovations.

Satisfying building regulations is another key consideration and hiring a reputable builder will be integral to achieving that. But they are more difficult to find as they don’t have to be independently

20 AUGUST 2018

certified like a gas engineer or electrician. Listen to who your friends or family recommend; word of mouth is invaluable.

A trustworthy builder will ensure that all public health, health and safety and structural requirements are addressed such as whether the foundations are the correct depth, the walls are properly insulated or the extension is damp proof. A building inspector will then check the building works both during and after completion, before signing it off.

Once you’ve decided to extend your home it’s tempting to get things done as quickly as possible.

But it’s vital that solid foundations are put in place both legally and physically, otherwise your new build could come crashing down around you.

Mike Wragg is a senior associate at B P Collins.

For further advice please contact Mike or another member of the property team on 01753 279021 or email resproperty@bpcollins.co.uk

“Regardless of what your builder says, always seek advice from a property lawyer or your local council on whether permission is required before making any structural changes to your home”

LOC AL BUSINESS

I

Make the right choice for your retirement

n the 2014 annual budget the chancellor introduced dramatic new rules concerning access to pension funds. These new pension freedoms allow far greater flexibility to individuals in retirement but for some the options only complicate things.

Matthew Dean, Managing Partner of Hoxton Capital Management, a bespoke local financial advisory firm which specialises in helping clients throughout their financial life, understands that the complexity and variety can be overwhelming but insists the changes are in the interests of consumers and simply need to be used to their full potential.

Dean, who was educated locally at St. Clement Danes in Hertfordshire and has spent the last ten years in financial services, explains that ‘The various options now available allow for effective retirement and succession planning. The fact that there is no need to buy an annuity means people can now pass funds, they will have spent many years accumulating, on to loved ones. For many this is an important new feature, but it is not the only significant change.

Flexible access means that people can make use of the funds they have saved as and when they need or want to rather than simply having a set monthly income for life and of course by not buying an annuity people can benefit from the investment growth of their fund rather than that allowing annuity providers to pocket the gains.’

Dean goes on to explain that it is not a case of one size fits all, ‘The reality is the main difficulty created by the new pension freedoms is establishing which of the freedoms or indeed which combination of the freedoms available is most appropriate. Our clients have wide ranging needs, goals and objectives and this means a tailored

22 AUGUST 2018

“The various options now available allow for effective retirement and succession planning.

The fact that there is no need to buy an annuity means people can now pass funds, they will have spent many years accumulating, on to loved ones”

solution, considering their need for income, access to lump sums, likely tax liabilities, desire to pass funds on and crucially their attitude to risk all play a part in helping us to make a fully bespoke recommendation.’

Studies show that those who take financial advice are on average around 41% better off during retirement. Dean argues that this gap is only likely to widen because of the new more flexible retirement market. ‘There is little doubt that being prepared for retirement has always been vital. Now more than ever I would encourage people of all ages to work with a trusted adviser on a regular basis to make sure their investments are on track to deliver their retirement goals. The need for advice increases even further as individuals come to access their pensions. Without the right advice many clients simply wouldn’t be aware of all the options available to them or how to use them, which could cost them thousands in both tax and investment growth. As an advisory service we focus on adding value to our clients by helping them to organise their finances as efficiently as possible and preparing for life after work is without a doubt the biggest and most vital area of long-term financial planning. Properly used, the new freedoms mean it is possible for most clients to get what they want from their pension and ultimately their retirement.

To ensure people have access to the right advice Dean and Hoxton Capital Management are offering clients a free one-hour initial consultation.

Hoxton can be contacted on 020 3917 3757. www.hoxton-capital.co.uk The above statistic comes from ‘Retirement Income Uncovered – The New Normal 2016’.

OUT & ABOUT

HOW GEMMED UP ARE YOU ON YOUR JEWELS? M

ETEORIC price rises for top-quality antique jewellery and gemstones mean tens of thousands of Britons may be sitting on valuable family heirlooms without knowing their true value.

Coloured diamonds, sapphires, rubies and emeralds, as well as fine pieces of jewellery from key eras like the 1920s and 1930s, have enjoyed unbroken price rises over the past decade, according to industry experts.

Analysing lots sold at auction, Bonhams is reporting excellent prices now being achieved at auction versus a decade ago. These include a 970 per cent price increase for sapphires; a 1,100 per cent increase for rubies and a 1,900 per cent price increase for emeralds.

Prices for Art Deco (1920s and 1930s) and Belle Époque (1890 to 1915) jewellery have soared by a remarkable 72 per cent since 2007.

Antique jewellery has risen by 54 per cent and jewellery from the post war era (1945-1975) has risen by 89 per cent during the same period according to data released by Art Market Research.

Such rises mean many owners may be sitting on jewellery they rarely wear or may have inherited that is worth far more than they realise.

Emily Barber, Head of Bonhams Jewellery Department for the UK said: “Investors are rapidly recognising the opportunities of collecting jewellery and, in the process, driving up prices of an already

Free valuations

limited commodity. Now is a great time to get an up-to-date valuation, especially for those who don’t realise the value of the pieces they own.”

According to newly released data from the Knight Frank Luxury Investment Index, which tracks the price growth of 10 luxury investment sectors over the past 12 months, jewellery is a consistently strong performer. The research shows that jewellery as an alternative asset class increased by 138 per cent in the last 10 years.

What’s hot • Coloured diamonds • Rubies • Colourless diamonds/white diamonds • Sapphires • Emeralds • Belle Epoque/Art Deco Jewellery • Designer jewellery eg from Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels • Natural pearls • Artist jewellery • Spinels Source: Bonhams 24 AUGUST 2018

Life Magazines readers are able to take advantage of a complimentary up- to-date market valuation of their jewellery with a view to sale by emailing jewellery@bonhams.com or by calling Bonhams on (0)20 7468 8285 to arrange an appointment at the Bonhams office nearest to where you live.

OUT & ABOUT

Chef Laurie Gear

August recipe & kitchen news

I

t has been a hot balmy summer and as we turn to August it time to make the most of late summer seasonal ingredients as British fields and orchards begin to bulge with their wares to take us into the main harvesting month of September. While home grown berries and redcurrants are still great, we are now starting to see the first of the English plums beginning with greengages. Figs are now starting to become plentiful, mostly coming from the warmer parts of Europe but figs hailing from Essex in recent years which is good news for British growers. At the absolute height of their season in August are tomatoes the British and French heirloom varieties being the leaders in flavour due to their natural pollination by bees.

The sweetcorn season begins this month coinciding perfectly with barbecue season. Not just for the barbecue, the sweetness of the corn offsets the saltiness of delicate shellfish such as prawns, crab and razor clams. Other highlights also include English watercress, apricots, beetroot, globe artichokes, radishes and kohlrabi. Runner beans, courgettes and swiss chard. Shellfish is still at its best so why not try this refreshing chilled recipe using Lyme Bay crab meat from my home town which has excellent flavour but you can use a good quality alternative.

At the restaurant we serve this delicious summery dish with a cylinder of the passion fruit jelly but for a simpler presentation this recipe the passion fruit shells to good effect.

RECIPE: Avocado Mousse, Passion Fruit Jelly, Fresh Dorset Crab Ingredients Serves 4 Avocado Mousse • 1 large ripe avocado • Splash of lemon juice • Small clove of garlic • 100 ml double cream lightly whipped Passion Fruit Jelly • 12 whole passion fruits • 2 leaves of gelatine • Pinch of caster sugar • 100 g picked white Dorset crab meat • Few sprigs of chervil • A little good quality extra virgin olive oil

Method Avocado Mousse 1. Remove skin and stone from avocado, roughly chop along with the garlic 2. Puree in a food processor until smooth adding a little lemon juice 3. Fold in the lightly whipped double cream 4. Season to taste Passion Fruit Jelly 1. Soak the gelatine in cold water to cover 2. Remove the passion fruit seeds and place in the a heavy bottomed saucepan 3. Add a pinch of sugar 4. Cook gently for approx 10 minutes 5. Then place in a food processer and whiz a few times 6. Pass through a fine sieve 7. Squeeze any excess water from your leaf gelatine and add to the hot puree

26 AUGUST 2018

Late Summer Lunch Tasting Menu Offer In keeping with the sunny season, we invite Life Series readers to sample our new Late Summer Tasting Lunch Menu, which showcases the best of the season ingredients, with a complimentary glass of chilled Sparkling Italian Rose upon arrival - with its bouquet of strawberries, white flowers and hints of vanilla - perfect to celebrate those late Summer Days!

Lunch Tasting Offer is available from Tuesday to Friday lunchtime until August 17th 2018 for just £38.00 per person optional wine flight £18.00 **please mention ‘Lunch Offer’ when making your reservation (offer available for up to six guests)

8. Stir to dissolve 9. Allow to cool To assemble 1. Pipe the avocado mousse back into your empty passion fruit shells about ¾ full 2. Tap to level 3. Spoon the passion fruit jelly over the avocado mousse to fill the shell to the top 4. Set in a refrigerator for one hour 5. Mix your fresh crab meat with a little lemon juice, salt, pepper, picked chervil and a splash of extra virgin olive oil 6. Spoon a quenelle of the crab meat on top of each passion fruit jelly.

7. Chefs tip – the riper the passion fruit the wrinklier its skin.

8. You can use any unusual shaped little pot or dishes to serve this amuse bouche in, an egg cup for example would work well.

The Artichoke Restaurant is located at: 9 Market Square Old Amersham HP7 ODF Telephone: 01494726611 www.artichokerestaurant.co.uk

Bar-B-q season!

• Handmade kebabs • Marinated meats • Butterflied legs of lamb • Caribbean chicken • Spicy handmade burgers Many flavours of handmade sausages PLUS: Chicken kiev | Handmade quiches | Handmade pies | Sausage rolls | Scotch eggs

OUT & ABOUT

Marlow history board unveiled by Crest Nicholson and The Marlow Society

I

n partnership with The Marlow Society, awardwinning developer Crest Nicholson is proud to unveil a brand new Marlow history board at its Portland Gardens development in Marlow.

The history board forms part of a wider community initiative to maintain the heritage in the town and leave a legacy for future generations to enjoy.

The history board was unveiled at an official ceremony hosted by Crest Nicholson’s Portland Gardens development. Attended by the Mayor of Marlow, Councillor Chris Funnell, and President of The Marlow Society, Sir Keith Stuart, the board will now become part of a wider initiative to place history boards throughout the beautiful riverside town, in an effort to curate an exciting history trail carefully designed for both residents and visitors alike.

Crest Nicholson’s collaboration with The Marlow Society demonstrates its commitment to supporting the local Marlow area, as the society is a well-known charity devoted to the preservation and development of the town, its surrounding villages and the charming Buckinghamshire countryside.

Christine Tiernan, Sales & Marketing Director at Crest Nicholson South, said: “The history board unveiling ceremony is a stand out occasion for us in Marlow this year. We’re very proud to be marking the fifth history board in Marlow in collaboration with The Marlow Society, and pleased to receive such a great welcome from the Mayor of Marlow and wider community. This is a fantastic opportunity for our residents at Portland Gardens and visitors to explore the rich heritage of the town and we are excited to see how the history trail progresses over the next few years.”

Portland Gardens is a distinguished collection of luxurious two-bedroom apartments and four-bedroom homes, which have been finished to the highest specification, blending clean and contemporary interior design with classic exteriors and top of the range fixtures and fittings throughout. Each home is fitted with a Villeroy and

28 AUGUST 2018

Boch bathroom suite, chrome Hansgrohe taps and shower fittings, and ceramic tiling in the bathroom, en-suite and kitchen.

Situated just off the banks of the River Thames, residents can experience beautiful river views just a few minutes’ walk away from their homes. There are plenty of exciting tourist destinations for residents to enjoy in their downtime which all showcase the rich heritage of the town.

Two-bedroom apartments at Portland Gardens are available from £599,950 and four-bedroom houses are available from £1,399,950. To find out more about our homes available in Marlow, please visit the Marketing Suite, which is open daily between 10am and 5pm and until 7pm on Thursdays or call 01628 565 372 or visit www.crestnicholson.com/developments/ portland-gardens.

“Residents can experience beautiful river views”

OUT & ABOUT

things you might not know about divorce Navigating your way through a divorce can be a daunting experience with many issues to think about. Family lawyers at Royds Withy King highlight some of the lesser known facts that potential divorcees should be aware of. recent case, the courts said that divorcees with children aged over seven should work for a living.

There is no such thing as a ‘quickie’ divorce

Pre-nups are not legally binding

We often see reports about high profile individuals and celebrities being granted a ‘quickie’ divorce in the press. There is no such thing. What is being referred to is the pronouncement of decree nisi in open court, which gives entitlement to the petitioning party to a divorce. In reality, a divorce takes at least four to six months to conclude but The Times recently reported this can take up to a year in London!

It is possible to have a ‘no fault’ divorce

Emma McMorrow

For a ‘no fault’ divorce, parties must have been separated for two years and both must consent to the divorce, or, the couple must have been separated for five years. There is much criticism of the current law as couples in loveless marriages with ‘no one to blame’ still have to stay married for two years at least.

You can apply for a divorce online In May 2018, a new online divorce system was introduced in an effort to modernise the court system. ‘Digital divorce’ is supposed to be simple and intuitive so that people without legal representation can complete the process easily.

Vandana Chitroda

The end of the ‘meal ticket for life’ Courts are beginning to place time limits on postdivorce maintenance assuming that the financially weaker spouse (traditionally the stay at home housewife) will eventually return to work. In a 30 AUGUST 2018

THE DETAILS Tel: 0207 129 7915 or email: family.enquiries@roydswithyking.com

Pre-nups are not legally binding in the UK but they can carry decisive ‘weight’ and be enforced by the court in the right circumstances. Reasons that a pre-nup may be discounted could be: lack of transparency from one or both parties about their financial affairs, parties not taking independent legal advice so that they understand the implications of the agreement, the agreement being signed under duress or less than three weeks before the wedding or that the pre-nup didn’t make provision for potential future events, e.g. children, disability, illness, unemployment, etc.

Many people enter into pre-nups when they want to protect an inheritance or pre-acquired wealth.

If the agreement was drawn to include fair terms, following the correct procedure, with the parties having taken independent legal advice, it is likely to be upheld by the courts.

If you’re in any way unsure of the divorce application and process you should take legal advice.

Cost effective, pragmatic and expert help could save you significant amounts on contested proceedings and may help you achieve an agreement without the need for court.

Royds Withy King is a City law firm with a local presence. Their Family team is based in Buckinghamshire and the home counties as are many of their clients. Contact specialists Vandana Chitroda or Emma McMorrow for advice on separation and divorce.

Tel: 0207 129 7915 or email: family.enquiries@roydswithyking.com

OUT & ABOUT

Lodge Garage Mazda revs up for charity car rally

A

ylesbury-based Lodge Garage Mazda is gearing up to take part in the Two Ball Banger Rally in aid of the Florence Nightingale Hospice. Staff members will complete the two-day charity challenge in heritage Mazda models to raise money for the local charity, which provides accessible, free of charge care to people in the local area who have lifelimiting illnesses.

Two teams from the Bicester Road dealership have entered September’s rally, which will cover some of the best roads and mountain passes in the Lake District. The ‘Mazda Monkeys’ team will compete in a Mazda MX-5 MK2, while ‘Team AWOL’ will be enjoying an original MK1 Mazda MX-5, with both cars perfect for enjoying Cumbria’s finest driving roads.

Donations are welcome via the Lodge Garage Mazda JustGiving page: www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/Lodge-Garage.

Floyd Timms, Lodge Garage Mazda Dealer Principal said, “The Florence Nightingale Hospice provides incredible care. We want to help them continue their exceptional range of services so decided to take part in this year’s Two Ball Banger Rally help support this worthwhile cause. Our teams are very excited to be driving heritage Mazda models in this treasure-hunt style rally and want to raise as much money as possible for the Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity through our JustGiving page.”

The Two Ball Banger Lakes Rally is a two-day driving adventure that will tackle some of the best 32 AUGUST 2018

UK driving roads and mountain passes. ‘Team AWOL’ and ‘Mazda Monkeys’ will compete in daily challenges that will test their teamwork, driving and navigational skills, with daily cash prizes to compete for.

The Aylesbury-based Florence Nightingale Hospice provides a range of palliative and endof-life care services to people with life-limiting illnesses such as chronic lung conditions, cancer and neurological conditions in Buckinghamshire and parts of Oxfordshire and south Bedfordshire.

The Day Hospice offers physical, therapeutic and emotional support to people who have been diagnosed with a terminal illness, but who are able to live independently at home. The Hospice also runs the Lymphoedema Clinic and cares for and supports families and friends of patients, through the Bereavement Support Team and Florrie’s Children’s Team.

Jo Turner, Head of Fundraising at Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity said “This is a really unusual challenge and we are delighted and grateful that an important local business is raising money for the hospice. Most people in the community will have some sort of connection with the hospice at some point, and hospice care is more and more important in our growing community. This kind of fundraising support is invaluable to maintain the care we provide.

We can’t wait to hear how it goes for the Lodge Garage Mazda teams in September!”

MORE INFORMATION For more information about the Two Ball Banger Rally visit www.twoballbangerrally.co.uk. To make a donation to the Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity please visit www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/Lodge-Garage. All money donated will be sent directly to the charity.

For more information about Lodge Garage Mazda’s entry into the rally, call 01296 770 245, visit the dealership on Bicester Road in Kingswood, or go to www.lodgegarage-mazda.co.uk.

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OUT & ABOUT

Discover intu Watford intu Watford is becoming bigger, better, and more fun than ever … and we can’t wait.

T

he countdown is on for the opening of intu Watford’s vibrant new development, and we just know it’s a destination that’s going to delight shoppers, leisure-seekers and foodies alike. It’s time to discover intu Watford.

The modern development of fashion, beauty, food and leisure stores galore, plus a nine-screen IMAX Cineworld cinema and Hollywood Bowl, will inject new life and energy into our town, attracting people from Watford and beyond.

Debenhams is up first The first phase will launch on 27 September when the fabulous new three-storey Debenhams opens its doors for the first time.

Expect a spectacular opening event with entertainment, music, dancing, giveaways and much more; this is the event of the year – you won’t want to miss out.

Showcasing stylish designer fashion (think Star

by Julien Macdonald, J by Jasper Conran and No.1

by Jenny Packham) and leading beauty brands (including Tom Ford, Chanel and Dior), a visit to the 90,000 square foot Debenhams store will be a must.

And the timing is perfect. With cooler seasons nearly upon us, we know where you’ll find us this autumn/winter – tucking into warming, delicious meals out and updating our wardrobe with cosy knitwear and coats.

Home to the UK’s best There’s so much more to come. The highly anticipated line-up for the £180 million development includes 13 new retailers, 11 new restaurants and leisure facilities, including national favourites such as Superdry, H&M, Jack Wills, New Look, The Florist, TGI Friday, Las Iguanas, and YO! Sushi, among others.

The Debenhams opening will be followed by these other exciting shops and restaurants – all brand new to Watford. Hollywood Bowl and the cinema will open later in the year, so stay up to date with our opening schedule at intu.co.uk/watford.

A new public square will also be home to fun community events including street art and music shows.

“Excitement is really mounting now, and we can’t wait to open the much-awaited new Debenhams,” said Vicki Costello, general manager of intu Watford.

“It is everything we dreamed of and more, and we know shoppers are going to love it. It’s just what Watford has been waiting for!”

She added: “The extension will transform intu Watford into a modern, contemporary shopping experience that will complement our great mix of existing retailers and create a place where people 34 AUGUST 2018

“It’s time to discover intu Watford”

can shop, eat and have fun. It really will put Watford on the map!”

It’s time to get excited, Watford. With a whole plan of events coming up from now and into the New Year, it’s time to #DiscoverintuWatford. www.intu.co.uk/watford

OUT & ABOUT

Get set for some M uddy M ayhem !

G

rab your pack and get set for some muddy mayhem as The Hospice of St Francis’ legendary Mud Pack Challenge returns to Ashridge House for the fifth year.

Registration has opened and places are filling fast for the five or 10-mile obstacle course through the beautiful but very muddy 190-acre grounds and woodland of the historic country estate, which takes place on Sunday 21st October.

Open to anyone who wants to step out of their comfort zone and challenge themselves for charity, the popular event promises lots of muddy fun as Mudpackers slip, slide, jump and wade their way over wet and muddy obstacles.

Nicky Maxwell-Braithwaite, Events Fundraiser at the Hospice, said: “The Mud Pack Challenge is the filthiest fundraiser in the Hospice’s events calendar.

If you haven’t done it before, now is your chance to join the muddy masses and become a mud warrior for the day.

“If you’ve done it before, you’ll know what good fun it is and we’d love to welcome you back.

You can do it solo or as part of a team but make your miles count by raising all you can to help us to

36 AUGUST 2018

continue to help local people to live their precious lives well.”

Last year saw a record 900 people take on the challenge raising a phenomenal £130,000 for the Berkhamsted-based charity.

This year it is hoped even more people will sign up to get filthy for St Francis.

The event is open to anyone with a basic level of fitness so it’s perfect for individuals aged 15 or over and also fantastic fun for families, friends, teams and work colleagues. All that’s needed is a sense of adventure and a willingness to get muddy!

Places are limited and entries are accepted on a first come, first served basis, so don’t delay, secure your place on the muddiest challenge for miles around at www.stfrancis.org.uk/mudpack or call 01442 869555.

Entry is £37.50 and we ask all Mud Packers to raise at least £50 per person to help the Hospice raise the over £5million it needs every year to help people live their precious lives well.

Just remember, mud washes off but memories last a life time! www.stfrancis.org.uk

“The event is open to anyone with a basic level of fitness so it’s perfect for individuals aged 15 or over and also fantastic fun for families, friends, teams and work colleagues”

OUT & ABOUT

B P Collins’ £10,000 charity fund is opening again for nominations

D

o you know a group or organisation that is working to improve lives in their community in the South Bucks, Aylesbury, Wycombe or Chiltern

districts?

The nominations for Buckinghamshire law firm B P Collins’ charity fund are opening once again on 30 July 2018, via the firm’s stewardship with Heart of Bucks. The fund supports local charities and projects that are aimed at delivering positive social impact and improving lives.

The awards are centred on meeting three objectives, which fit in with the firm’s CSR values: building stronger communities, providing better futures and helping create safer lives. As long as the organisation nominated fits one of these themes, there are no restrictions on what the award can be used towards; it may be for general costs, purchasing equipment or to support a community project. The awards will range from £500 to £3,500 and nominations are open until 31 August 2018.

Simon Deans, B P Collins senior partner and Heart of Bucks trustee, said: “B P Collins has had a charitable fund with the Heart of Bucks since 2015. In 2016, we opened the fund to nominations for the first time. It was great to see local charities and organisations getting the chance to secure financial aid for such worthy projects, and we are delighted to once again open nominations across South Bucks, Aylesbury and Wycombe.

“The stewardship with Heart of Bucks has funded many causes which don’t always grab the headlines but make such a vital and - at times - lifesaving contribution to the local community. Our law firm is passionate about helping those in need in

38 AUGUST 2018

Bucks and the nominations system is a tangible way of doing that.”

Peter Costello, chief executive of Heart of Bucks, added: “It’s great to be working in partnership with B P Collins in supporting local charities and community groups who are working tirelessly to improve the lives of some of the most vulnerable people in Buckinghamshire. Having spoken to those who were awarded funding previously, there was a real appreciation for the opportunity to be working so closely with a business like B P Collins and to showcase how their organisation makes a real difference locally.”

This year, B P Collins was awarded a gold mark in the recently launched Corporate Social Responsibility Accreditation scheme, a visible testimony of excellence in CSR. Nominations for the charity funding are open throughout August, before a shortlist will be decided. Those shortlisted will be guaranteed to receive a financial award. They will be invited to give a short presentation to staff at B P Collins in Gerrards Cross, who will vote for the charities in order of preference.

For more information and to nominate please visit heartofbucks.org or bpcollins.co.uk and go to the CSR page, which will direct you to the nomination form. The closing date for nominations is midnight on 31 August 2018.

BP Collins: 01753 279021. www.bpcollins.co.uk

“It was great to see local charities and organisations getting the chance to secure financial aid for such worthy projects, and we are delighted to once again open nominations across South Bucks, Aylesbury and Wycombe”

OUT & ABOUT

Dacorum Local Hero Tring’s Beechwoods Fine Foods wins Retail Business Heroes award

T

ring, Hertfordshire – Tring-based deli/ café Beechwood Fine Foods has won the inaugural title of Dacorum Retail Business Hero 2018.

The business was started in 2010 by Sarah and Toby Murray in the style of a farm shop, selling and serving only the best British and locally sourced produce. As well as fruit and veg, which is handpicked in Ivinghoe, the bread served in the shop and café is baked locally, and Sarah also produces her own range of award-winning jams, preserves and chutneys.

Sarah, who has lived in Tring with her husband for 18 years, said: “We are amazed and delighted to have won the inaugural Dacorum Retail Business Hero 2018.

“We were told that this was one of the toughest categories, there are so many great high street businesses in the Borough, many doing great things in the local community, it proves that despite all the doom and gloom spoken about the high street that it is very much alive and vibrant but it needs the continued support of the local residents and visitors to remain this way.”

The Murrays beat off competition from eight other businesses in the retail category and received their award from Alan Butchers from McDonald’s.

The award was sponsored by the Marlowes Shopping Centre. Hemel Hempstead MP Sir Mike Penning presented at The Dacorum Business Heroes Ceremony held at Shendish Manor and inspirational Paralympian Ian Rose also spoke at the awards.

The Murrays beat off competition from eight other businesses in the retail category Dacorum Borough Council said of the Business Heroes Awards: “In our business community, there are often unsung heroes who go above and beyond in giving back to the borough. Through these awards we want to recognise businesses that really make a difference and have a positive impact on the lives of others - shaping the future of economic growth in Dacorum.”

Beechwood Fine Foods is open seven days a week for Fairtrade coffee, cold drinks, light meals or a slice of Sarah’s delicious homemade cake.

They also stock cured meats and hams and the widest range of British cheeses in the locality. It has the only deli counter in Tring town centre, which features hand raised pork pies, quiches, and hams carved to order. Other local products include: Kiwichik Chocolates, Chiltern Charcuterie, Jilly’s Biscuits, and Ashridge Honey.

Beechwoods Fine Foods is located in Frogmore Street, Tring, just off the High Street in the centre of town. For further information, visit www.beechwoodfinefoods.com or contact Toby and Sarah Murray on tel: 01442 828812.

40 AUGUST 2018

BUCKS COUNTY SHOW

THURSDAY 30TH AUGUST 2018

The Metropolitan Mounted Police Activity Ride The Royal Artillery Band / Best of British Livestock Over 200 Trade Stands WEEDON PARK (A413) AYLESBURY ‘A great family day out’

01296 680400 Buy tickets onLine www.buckscountyshow.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

E.J. CHURCHILL:

Designed by shooters for shooters

E.J.Churchill grounds in the Chiltern Hills

Practise makes perfect

J

ohn Churchill established Churchill Gunmakers in 1891. One-hundred and twenty-seven years on, E.J. Churchill continues to produce the highest quality shotguns and is the only privately owned company in Britain with its own gunmakers, shooting ground, sporting agency, country outfitters and events business under one roof.

In 1989 Sir Edward Dashwood created the shooting ground at West Wycombe Estate in the Chiltern Hills, just 30 miles from London. Six years later, a corporate and private events business, gun room and country outfitters extended E.J. Churchill’s business further.

The shooting ground has 150 shooting stands, six clay shooting disciplines, ‘The Pit’, three high towers and five purpose-built grouse butts and offers extensive practise and tuition opportunities.

It is regarded as one of the finest facilities of its kind in the world and has played host to the World English Sporting Championships in 2014, 2016 and again this year.

Its gun room sells new and second-hand shotguns and rifles with a full range from Blaser, Beretta, Browning and Perazzi. Customers are encouraged to try the guns at the shooting ground and, once a decision is made, E.J. Churchill’s skilled craftsmen offer a professional gun fitting service and undertake gun servicing, repairs and alterations, from simple overhauls to complete rebuilds, rebarrelling and re-stocking. There are secure on-site storage facilities and they can provide a personal carriage service throughout Britain.

The shops at the shooting ground stock a range of carefully chosen brands and E.J. Churchill’s own collection, available in store and online, comprising full shooting attire for game and clay sports, country

42 AUGUST 2018

fashion, outdoor footwear, shooting accessories, gifts and fine bronze artwork.

The Club allows members to enjoy the grounds, extensive shooting, social facilities, country outfitters and a wide range of E.J. Churchill cartridges at preferential rates. Social events are held throughout the year, from shopping and Christmas carols in the winter to a members’ shoot and latenight shooting in the summer.

E.J.Churchill also organises exceptional sporting experiences with exclusive access to some of the most prestigious sporting estates, from Scotland for grouse to Spain for partridge and Turkey for wild boar.

From multi-activity days and product launches to family fun days and simulated game days, the E.J. Churchill team creates exciting events and is especially proud to have raised millions of pounds for charitable causes through its mobile charity shoots.

Led by passionate sportspeople, E.J. Churchill is designed for shooters by shooters, providing a superior service in a friendly environment that encourages participation at all levels, from Olympic hopefuls to beginners. E.J. Churchill is proud to keep the sport thriving and to introduce a new generation with Young Guns sessions during school holidays to encourage youngsters from as young as nine. It also runs parent and child, women-only and university and school events.

E.J. Churchill’s awards include the CPSA ‘Shooting Ground of the Year’ 2017 award, Shooting Industry Award ‘Best Shooting Ground 2017’ and the Rural Business Award for ‘Best Rural Business 2016’. George Digweed MBE, 26 time World Champion, has been recruited as our global ambassador.

“In 1989 Sir Edward Dashwood created the shooting ground at West Wycombe Estate in the Chiltern Hills, just 30 miles from London. It is regarded as one of the finest facilities of its kind in the world”

E.J.Churchill guns

THE DETAILS E.J. Churchill Park Lane, Lane End, High Wycombe, Bucks Hp14 3Ns. +44 (0)1494 883227. www.ejchurchill.com

OUT & ABOUT

Mindful Connection I

Allow me to “ReIntroduce” myself, I’m a local Mum with a background in fashion publishing and music.

Now I’m embarking on a new adventure, my Interior and design business. I have grown up in Gerrards Cross and seen our area change over the last 30 years.

I’ve also had the privilege of reading and watching Life Magazines grow into established local go-to magazines for our area, now I am honoured to be able to write for them too. I hope you enjoy reading my article.

44 AUGUST 2018

’m flying home with my two younger children and Husband from a week away. Both children are occupied with Ipads as I play piggy in the middle and my Husband on his Iphone. And me? With you, writing, reconnecting, downloading, a little me time, a little mindful connection.

Time- whether we value it or not, it matters.

Time gives me a little me time, space to breath, to stop, look, reconnect, shake it off, be still and put myself back in the moment, calm down and slow down.

Its taken me a while to “Mindfully” be aware of what I’m doing to myself, by not looking after myself. I get cranky, short tempered, snap for no real reason and I stop breathing.

I gasp for air rather than breath because my body needs to survive. I would feel out of control, insignificant, what’s the purpose of all of this, hating myself for losing control, for God only knows that this isn’t me.

I didn’t like what I was becoming, it wasn’t the real me or I wasn’t even thinking about me.

Something had to change in my own mind, I had to listen to my inner voice and stop and listen to myself.

So, I had a few reflexology treatments which then led onto cranial. “What’s that” I hear you asking?

It’s a little hard to explain without it sounding mad!

Cranial for me was ‘mind blowing”, I was beyond cloud 9 and then some (be warned, it does affect everybody differently). Cranial became my new best friend, an opportunity for me to rebalance, reconnect, to download and for me to reach a higher state of mindfulness.

I would walk in as one person and come out as me.

However, I knew I couldn’t rely on cranial forever and I needed to find my own way of being more mindfully connected to myself.

It was the start of my mindfulness journey, I just didn’t know it at the time.

Slowly I’ve let the things I love back into my life; Reading. I love reading books, I get lost in them, connect with them. Which is how I feel about the book I’m reading at the moment, Eat, Pray, Love.

I do feel in some way it has helped me to reconnect with myself. Maybe I needed to be in a certain place in my life to really connect to this book, after all it has sat on my shelf for the best part of 8 years!

Photography. I’ve always had an interest in taking pictures, I nearly did Fashion Photography for my undergraduate studies. I don’t have hours to walk around with my SLR, but on the odd occasion I will take the camera out to catch my monsters playing.

On holiday, my Iphone is never too far away for me to catch the moment. Photography gives me a creative outlet and a memory that lasts forever.

I’ve also found a new way to look after my state of mind….Writing.

I’m a very private person.

“Well aren’t you telling us everything now”? I hear you asking.

No, I felt that I wanted to share my journey with you as a Mother, Wife and Professional.

For me this journey and self exploration hasn’t just been about writing.

Its also been about talking to the people I hold close and sharing my experiences, and if my journey helps somebody reconnect with themselves than this is all worth it.

I have to take time out to sit, clear my mind, breath and download (which doesn’t always happen to be honest), then I’m free to carry on being a calmer more respectful person to myself.

No matter how complicated it gets, and it will because that’s life, we have to start taking time to mindfully reconnect to ourselves.

Here is a little tip a very dear friend told me, to breath five times deeply in through your nose and will a loose jaw exhale out through your mouth with a HAAAAAAA. Close your eyes if you want, and rebalance yourself.

I try to do this and even get my children to try and do it when they are feeling overwhelmed.

Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn’t!

I really try to stay in the moment now however it doesn’t always happen. I defiantly don’t have all the answers - I’m still learning and will always continue to be the best version of me by staying Mindfully Connected, to me.

STOP, LOOK, BREATHE. Until next time Ladies and Gents, thank you for allowing me to share.

Sj x All images copyright Sharanjeet Sandhu

OUT & ABOUT

competition time!

Meet safari stars of the summer W

in one of five family tickets for Woburn Safari Park and meet some of the safari stars of the summer. Get closer than ever to the amazing wildlife as you adventure by car in the Road Safari parkland animal reserves; then explore the Foot Safari and watch educational keeper talks and demonstrations.

Californian sea lion Kira recently gave birth to a healthy female pup named Winnie - exactly one year to the day since she welcomed her first pup, Gus. The youngster can be seen enjoying a dip in Sea Lion Beach or relaxing on the rocks alongside the other members of the rookery and her mischievous big brother, Gus. As you enter the Savannah Grasslands in the African Reserve road safari, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the large crèche of Eland antelope calves, born earlier this summer. The African Forest is alive with the patter of little monkey feet, as we welcome six tiny monkey babies to the troops.

Keepers are still in the process of naming all of the new arrivals, however to follow tradition, all of the babies born this year will be given names starting with the letter ‘S’.

There’s also the adorable Somali black headed lamb who can be seen within Animal Encounters in the Farmyard Friends enclosure. Plus you can meet

friendly goats, sheep, pony and donkeys too.

The mini mammals cannot wait to meet you either! Spot the Aldabra tortoises in their home at Chelonia Pathways, or visit the meerkats in Desert Springs, along with a neighbouring porcupine and a family of mongooses. Take a wander through the woodland of the Land of Lemurs to meet four species of adorable lemurs, and then take a stroll past the penguin colony, to watch the Humboldt penguins as they swim, dive and splash about in their pool.

Little monkeys have lots of chances to blow off steam with plenty of free indoor and outdoor play areas and activities included in your ticket price. Peddle across Swan Lake on a swan boat, take the Great Woburn Railway through the deer paddocks and let the kids burn off some energy in the enormous indoor soft play area, the Mammoth Play Ark.

Summer events listing: 11-12th August – Elephant Appreciation Weekend, come along and meet the herd and help raise money for the International Elephant Foundation.

12th August – Meet Peppa Pig at special meet and greet sessions, at intervals throughout the day.

15th August – Meet Chase from Paw Patrol, appearing on the decking of the Mammoth Play Ark at intervals throughout the day.

19th August – Meet Gekko and Catboy from superhero PJ Masks and get a selfie with your favourite kids’ TV characters.

Competition: To be in with a chance of winning a family ticket for one of these great events, just answer the question below: What is Winnie the sea lion pup’s brother called?

• Bob • Kira • Gus To enter, please submit your answer on email, along with your name, address and phone number to abi@fishmediagroup.co.uk no later than 5pm on Sunday 12th August 2018

Terms and conditions: Five winners will receive a family ticket (each valid for two adults and two children for one day admission, within a period of six months from the date of issue).

The winner will be selected at random on the closing date and the editor’s decision is final. The prize is non-transferable and there is no cash alternative.

If you are under 16 please ask an adult to supervise your entry. Please note: Woburn Safari Park is only accessible by car.

46 AUGUST 2018

OUT & ABOUT

The Chilterns Walking Festival 6-21 October 2018

T

he Chilterns Walking Festival autumn event takes place from 6 to 21 October 2018. The 16-day programme of over 50 themed guided walks and activities caters equally for experienced walkers and complete novices and is designed to encourage exploration of new areas, share a love of the local landscape and provide sociable opportunities for healthy outdoor activity.

Led by experienced local volunteer guides, the autumn programme includes seasonal highlights like colourful beech woods, stories of former residents, glorious views and opportunities to learn new skills like map-reading and Nordic walking. There are linear and circular walks involving trains, farms, landmarks and churchyards. Many are will appeal to families seeking country adventures, others are inspired by a love of history and local stories, and some provide the perfect excuse to try a local tipple or cream tea.

Website www.visitchilterns.co.uk/walkingfest describes all of the programmed walks and activities. No previous experience is necessary, and each walk has guidance for the length, suggested level of fitness and terrain involved. Most walks are free of charge, though must be pre-booked via the website to assist walk leaders with expected numbers.

Tell your friends and family or come along to make new friends with shared interests. All it takes is a pair of comfy walking shoes and a love for exploring the Chilterns countryside in Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

For further information and local walk details please contact Jackie Ellis on 07969 997985

48 AUGUST 2018

OUT & ABOUT

Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House F

ilm4 Summer Screen at Somerset House, the stunning open-air cinema, returns for fourteen summer evenings with film lovers leaving the hustle and bustle of London behind, escaping to the spectacular surroundings of Somerset House and entering into its magical world of films, for the ultimate communal cinema experience. All films in this year’s festival reflect on the theme of ‘dreams, fantasies, nocturnes and reveries’.

The distinguished selection features inspirational stories of ambition, freedom and equality, celebrations of love, nostalgia and desire.

Unlike any other open-air season, Film4 Summer Screen offers the chance to get closer to the people that create cinema. Special guest appearances and a programme of exciting prefilm events cement it as the film fan’s choice of outdoor cinema experiences..

2018 FESTIVAL INCLUDES: Premieres Film4 Summer Screen opens with the UK premiere of one of 2018’s most anticipated films, THE WIFE, starring Glenn Close, Jonathan Pryce, Christian Slater, Elizabeth McGovern and Max Irons. Glenn Close and director Björn Runge will introduce the premiere in person at Somerset House. The season closes with whiteknuckle heist thriller AMERICAN ANIMALS, featuring rising young stars Evan Peters and Barry Keoghan.

Until 22 August 2018

YOUR NAME. Another achingly poignant and visually ravishing romance comes with CAROL, starring Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara. Other modern classics include INCEPTION, BEING JOHN MALKOVICH and BLUE VELVET. For a magical family film night, Film4 Summer Screen will feature the Disney animated classic SLEEPING BEAUTY.

“Film4 Summer Screen offers the chance to get closer to the people that create cinema”

More to do on the night Film4 Summer Screen audiences are welcome to bring along snacks for screenings, though to make it an extra special experience, handcrafted hampers from Bryn Williams – Somerset House’s new restaurant – can be ordered and ready on arrival. For the ultimate experience, back-rests and blankets for extra comfort and warmth can be pre-ordered in advance and for those who want a seat, a very limited number of seated tickets are available at the rear of the courtyard for all screenings.

Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House, Somerset House, Strand, London, WC2R 1LA. For a full listing and to purchase tickets, visit www.somersethouse.org.uk

Double-Bills A highlight of Film4 Summer Screen are the fun back-to-back screenings on Saturday nights. The first finds the popular fantasies LABYRINTH and THE WIZARD OF OZ, brought together on the same bill. And the second Saturday the science-fiction favourite TOTAL RECALL is teamed up with the ‘80s horror hit A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET.

Also Showing Dr. Martin Luther King’s ‘I have a dream…’ speech is one of history’s most famous inspirational public addresses. To commemorate the 50th anniversary of the death of the civil rights leader, Film4 Summer Screen presents Ava DuVernay’s SELMA, which chronicles in electrifying fashion the 1965 march for equal voting rights.

Film4 Summer Screen offers another chance to catch the ultimate romantic reverie CALL ME BY 50 AUGUST 2018

Images from top: Glenn Close In The Wife; Total Recall; Selma; The Wizard of Oz; Sleeping Beauty © Park Circus; Image © James Bryant Photography

OUT & ABOUT

52 AUGUST 2018

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fashion, HEALTH

& beauty – Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – i m a g e : SU M M E R F E E T

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

ALL TIED UP? 5 6 J U LY 2 0 1 8

I

t may be a small thing, but it’s one of the first things to be noticed. As in so many things, it is attention to detail that often makes all the difference.

Whether you’re suiting up for the office or preparing for a special occasion, a tie allows you to reveal your personality without having to say a word.

The importance of giving your choice sufficient thought cannot be overstated, even if the tie itself is understated. As an extension of your personality, and the rest of your outfit you should choose a tie that works for you, whether it’s a plain, neat, stripe or a print, your tie is the icing on the cake.

If you’re worried about tying you tie, it’s hardly surprising.

A team of mathematicians in Stockholm calculated that there are up to 177,147 different ways that you can tie a tie. Despite this incredible number of potential variations, the truth is that most men struggle to tie a simple knot.

There is plenty of advice on-line on how best to tie a tie these days, but one simple rule should always be followed, relax and take your time.

Andrew Gardner, The Tanyard, Tring Road, Wendover, Buckinghamshire 01296 625488 www.andrewgardner.co.uk

“Whether you’re suiting up for the office or preparing for a special occasion, a tie allows you to reveal your personality without having to say a word”

AUGUST 2018 57

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

[NEWS]

BEAUTY & FASHION Walk With Me

“These two small companies have sustainability at the heart of their ethos, and are working to combat waste in a variety of innovative ways”

SUSTAINABLE FASHION

Chase and Wonder offer a choice of charmingly illustrated offerings for every distinguished gent.

Founded by husband and wife team David and Faye Aspinall. We love this Aftershave Wash Bag. www.chaseandwonder.com

58 AUGUST 2018

Explore the new collection of bijoux gems to arrive at Gemondo jewellery. These charming jewellery designs team a range of colourful genuine gemstones with 9ct yellow gold star, heart and teardrop motifs. Priced at £75 and under these whimsical yet affordable luxuries are perfect for everyday layering but also as special gifts to be treasured. www.gemondo.com

IN THE WILD

The term ‘Sustainability’, once the preserve of hemp-heavy bohemian brands, has this year been pushed to the fore of the fashion industry, thanks to the emergence of some shocking statistics on wastage. According to the 2017 report ‘A new textiles economy: Redesigning fashion’s future’, one full bin lorry of textiles is disposed of every second, and in March, the Times revealed that the UK had thrown over 300,000 tonnes of clothing into landfill, worth £12.5 billion. Two brands that are bucking the trend are Liquen Liquen and Walk With Me. These two small companies have sustainability at the heart of their ethos, and are working to combat waste in a variety of innovative ways. www.comisario.co

MODERN GENT

WHIMSICAL WONDERS

SUMMER SCARVES FOR COOL NIGHTS With the British summer’s unpredictable weather, a scarf can be the ideal accessory to protect from high sun or add a little warmth on a chilly evening.

This new range of fashion scarves includes silk, cotton, cashmere and linen fabrics.

And to keep any scarf in place with one of these beautiful new pink or blue leaf brooches.

Featuring a Swarovski crystal surrounded by tiny reflectives stones.

Available online and in selected onsite shops at Kensington, Hampton Court and the Tower of London. www.historicroyalpalaces.com

The Loris Bag is the latest addition to the range of Lush Designs’ cotton shopping bags.

Beautifully printed with their characteristic animal prints. Now that plastic bags are a no-no these totes are the stylish way to carry your shopping, your gym kit, your school books. Made in England, these bags are tough, washable and last for years. www.lushlampshades.co.uk

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

SUMMER FEET

Use these 10 summer footcare tips from The Society of Chiropodists & Podiatrists to get your feet in shape this summer!

1. TRIM YOUR TOENAILS FOR SUMMER Use proper nail clippers and cut straight across, not too short, and not down at the corners as this can lead to ingrown nails. File them, if that’s easier.

2. GO BAREFOOT Go barefoot or wear open-toed sandals whenever you can in the hot weather (except when you’re in a communal shower or changing area) to help stop your feet getting sweaty and smelly.

3. FORGET FLIP-FLOPS Don’t be tempted to wear flip-flops all through the summer. They don’t provide support for your feet and can give you arch and heel pain if you wear them for too long.

4. CHANGE SOCKS DAILY If you have to wear socks in hot weather, change them once a day and choose ones that contain at least 70% cotton or wool to keep your feet dry and stop them smelling.

5. REMOVE HARD SKIN Hard, cracked skin around the heels is very common in summer, often caused by open-backed sandals and flip-flops rubbing around the edge of 60 AUGUST 2018

the heel. Use a foot file, emery board or pumice stone to gently rub away the hard skin, then apply a rich moisturising cream such as aqueous cream or E45 to soften the skin.

6. BANISH BLISTERS Blisters strike more often in hot weather. They’re caused by rubbing, especially between the toes if you’re wearing flip-flops with “thongs”. Lorraine Jones, a podiatrist from The Society of Chiropodists & Podiatrists, says the key to preventing summer blisters is to keep your feet dry, wear shoes or sandals that fit well and aren’t too loose, and give your feet ample rest so they don’t get hot and sweaty. If you do get a blister, don’t put a plaster over it. Leave it to dry out on its own.

7. WATCH OUT FOR FOOT INFECTIONS The floors of communal showers and changing rooms at open-air and hotel swimming pools are hot spots for infections such as athlete’s foot and verrucas. Don’t wander around public pools barefoot. Protect your feet by wearing flip-flops in the changing room and at the pool edge.

8. RING THE CHANGES Wear a variety of different sandals and shoes during

summer to help prevent cracked heels, hard skin and blisters. Lorraine says: “We understand that when the summer arrives, people are naturally going to opt for lightweight footwear such as flip-flops and flimsy sandals. However, we’d recommend alternating your footwear so that you aren’t wearing this style of shoe day in and day out.”

9. TACKLE SWEAT If you have sweaty feet in the summer, it’s even more important to wash your feet each morning and evening in warm, soapy water then dry them thoroughly. You can also use an antibacterial wash, which helps deal with foot odour. Then wipe them with cotton wool dipped in surgical spirit and dust them with talc.

10. GET HELP IF YOU NEED IT Basic hygiene and nail cutting should be all you need to keep your feet healthy. But if you have any problems, such as hard skin that you can’t get rid of, it’s best to seek professional help. Your GP will be able to advise you on local foot services.

Registered podiatrists (also known as chiropodists) are trained in all aspects of care for the feet. The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists can help you find a local podiatrist.

For more information visit www.scpod.org

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Is meno-‘pausing’ your lifestyle?

H

ot flushes aren’t great at the best of times, let alone in this scorching heat.

Just like adolescence, this change in your body can be unnerving at times, but you will live to tell the tale! Although everybody experiences menopause and it’s symptoms in varying ways, we’ve got a few tips to help get you through this ‘up and down’ period of time.

Relax Stress is a part of everybody’s life, whether you’re going through menopause or not. Thinking about how to deal with it constructively can improve your life whatever your age.

• Meditate – It may not be for everyone, but just 15 minutes a day of meditation can drastically improve not only your stress levels, but your ability to cope.

Talk to someone You may feel like you’re on a rollercoaster ride of emotions throughout menopause, unable to find your keys and feel overly upset about it? Don’t worry – it’s normal!

• Tell your family – Although you’re the one that’s dealing with this crazy ride, your family are likely to notice it too. Let them know that you’re feeling sensitive or you’re having a down day/moment, it’s ok to admit it, and they can help you through it.

• Reach out – It is important to have a good support network around you in times such as this.

When you’re feeling stressed or down, reach out to a friend, a health professional or even an online forum.

Cool down You may feel as if your body’s thermostat is playing tricks on you, but numerous ladies have an extremely slender scope of comfort during menopause and it doesn’t take much to set off the alarm that screams at your body “cool off now!”

• Use breathing techniques – Breathing slowly and deeply when a hot flush comes on can shorten and lessen it • Drink water – It’s important to say hydrated and replenish the water lost from your body during hot flushes • Try and avoid hot and spicy foods – Spices can sometimes trigger hot flushes, even if you’ve always been eating them, so try and stay away, it won’t be forever.

Sleep Another battle many face is fighting to get to sleep thanks to night sweats and hormone shifts, so give these things a try: 62 AUGUST 2018

• Bedtime routine – If you’re struggling to get some well-earned shut eye, try to introduce a bedtime routine, for example you could take a bath and read a few chapters of a book. This helps relax your body and prepare for sleep • Regulate the temperature of your room – Sleep with a light sheet under the duvet so you can kick off the top layer when you get too hot and still feel cosy, have a fan or keep your window open through the night and wear light cotton pyjamas.

As always, exercising and eating well will have a positive impact upon your menopause and make it easier to deal with. A diet that is rich in fruit and veg is ideal and why not go for a quick stroll and get some fresh air when you’re having a hot flush or feeling stressed?

Spire Harpenden Hospital From pregnancy, childbirth and menopause women’s bodies go through a lot. And a variety of health conditions can affect the female body and reproductive organs - such as painful fibroids, vaginal prolapse and cancer.

We offer a range of preventive and innovative treatment options for women’s health conditions that are specific to the needs of your body, with empathy and respect. For fast and easy access to screening, investigations and treatment, visit our website at www.spireharpenden.com and choose your gynaecologist.

“As always, exercising and eating well will have a positive impact upon your menopause and make it easier to deal with”

www.spireharpenden.com

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

THE SORRISO SMILE

Orthodontic treatment involves wearing a brace – fixed or removable – to improve your smile by straightening crooked teeth, but the benefits are not limited to aesthetics.

People who suffer from strain in their jaw, and related headaches, often find that the problem is caused by an uneven bite that orthodontic treatment can fix.

Orthodontics also helps to improve the health of your teeth and gums by ensuring crooked teeth don’t prevent you from being able to clean all areas.

At Sorriso Dentistry, we have our own in-house orthodontist, so if crooked teeth are an issue for you, give us a call to arrange a consultation – nothing you wear is more important than your smile!

What would I gain from Orthodontic Treatment?

The benefits of orthodontic treatment include improving your smile and appearance, correcting dental crowding and straightening teeth, correcting your bite so that the front and back teeth meet together evenly on closing reducing the likelihood of damage to prominent teeth.

OPENING HOURS Monday 9am–5pm Tuesday 9am–5pm Wednesday 9am–5pm Thursday 9am–5pm Friday 9am–5pm Early bird, late evening and Saturday appointments available on request

THE DETAILS The Rear Barn, Windsor End, Beaconsfield HP9 2JJ 01494 412442 www.sorrisodental.co.uk

64 AUGUST 2018

T

here has traditionally been a certain degree of stigma surrounding adult orthodontics, but it is disappearing.

While the shame of wearing braces has slowly faded over the last two decades, the shame of having bad teeth has increased and there has been a surge in the number of adults choosing to address orthodontic issues.

The British Orthodontic Society released figures in 2016 that emphasised that trend, with 75 per cent of respondents reporting an increase in adult treatments. Meanwhile, in the US, more than 1.2 million adults underwent orthodontic treatment in 2012 – a 39 per cent increase since 1996.

There have been significant improvements in orthodontic technology over that period, with new materials and techniques providing options that make braces less conspicuous, more affordable and work better.

Celebrities with adult braces such as Tom Cruise, Gwen Stefani and Serena and Venus Williams, have also played a part in increasing the popularity of adult orthodontics.

Whatever the reason, be it technological improvements or increased awareness, the change in attitude is a reason to smile.

At what age should I have Orthodontic Treatment?

Generally speaking, the best time to have treatment is during childhood.

However, as we mention above, adults are now seeking orthodontic treatment to achieve the perfect smile due to the advances in brace techniques and materials used.

Who carries out orthodontics?

We believe Orthodontic treatment should ideally be carried out by a specialist called an orthodontist. At Sorriso Dentistry, our in-house orthodontist is both an NHS consultant and specialist in private practice.

What does it involve?

First and most important, a consultation appointment- we listen to your treatment needs and carry out a comprehensive examination of your jaw, your teeth and your bite to determine which orthodontic appliance would best suit your teeth. Once you decide to go ahead with treatment, we will arrange an appointment to collate further information and records, including X-rays, photographs and impressions of your teeth. These are used to plan your treatment and monitor its progress, as well as then comparing against the final results. Braces are then fitted and checked every 6-8 weeks. This is to monitor the progress of treatment and to tighten or adjust the brace as planned. Once we are happy with the appearance of your teeth we will remove the brace and provide you with retainers to hold your teeth in the new position.

B E A C O N S F I E L D ’ S F I R S T D E D I C AT E D M E D I C A L A E S T H E T I C C L I N I C

Whether your goal is to improve your skin health, reduce fines lines and wrinkles, sculpt your body by removing stubborn pockets of fat, or simply to look less tired, our multi-award winning, surgeon-led clinic has a customised treatment plan for you.

We believe the fundamental basis of a successful aesthetic procedure or skincare treatment is a good quality consultation with a skilled, qualified practitioner who fully understands your needs, and looks at your treatment as a journey, not a one-off event.

During your in-depth consultation, you have the opportunity to highlight any areas concerning you, whether these are skin conditions such as acne, pigmentation or rosacea, or worries about signs of ageing and a desire to rejuvenate your skin. Your skin will then be analysed by a state-of-the-art 3D digital skin imaging system called the VISIA, which takes surface and sub-surface images of your skin and develops a detailed complexion analysis.

Then we tailor a treatment plan designed around your needs, goals and lifestyle.

S-THeTICS SPeCIALISeS In THe VeRY LATeST In ADVAnCeD nOn-SURGICAL TReATMenTS FOR THe FACe AnD BODY: • Surgeon-led by Miss Sherina Balaratnam MBBS, MRCS, MSC (UCL) • Multi award-winning clinic located in Beaconsfield Old Town • Advanced cosmeceutical skincare • Medical grade facial treatments: The Fire & Ice The Hydrafacial • 1St clinic in england outside London to launch

S-THeTICS MeDICAL AeSTHeTIC CLInIC

Marlborough House, 45 Wycombe end, Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, HP9 1LZ

SculpSure, FDA approved body contouring and fat reduction treatment • Cosmetic injectables including Juvederm facial fillers and muscle relaxing injections • Laser skin rejuvenation • Femilift treatment for laser vaginal tightening • Radiofrequency skin tightening and microneedling • VISIA digital skin imaging

“S-Thetics is a one-stop shop for world-class non surgical treatments for face and body.”

– Brides Magazine Cosmetic Beauty Guide

“Miss Balaratnam’s super discreet S-Thetics clinic is based in a 200-year-old coach house just off Beaconsfield’s High Street: there’s no sign, it doesn’t look clinic-y, and high profile clients make the easy 35-minute drive for her seamless Botox and filler work, high-tech body treatments and skin programmes.”

– Daily Telegraph, Olivia Falcon’s Black Book of names to Know

The “S” in S-Thetics is Miss Sherina Balaratnam (MBBS, MRCS, MSc (UCL)) a fully qualified surgeon and cosmetic doctor with extensive plastic surgical training who has devoted the last nine years of her medical career to specialising in the latest non-surgical cosmetic treatment innovations.

Her subtle and highly personalised approach to facial rejuvenation has earned her a place as one of the UK’s leading non-surgical cosmetic specialists. She regularly trains other healthcare professionals on advanced injectable techniques and the consultation process.

She holds the prestigious title of “Local Country Ambassador” (LCA) for Allergan, the manufacturers of BOTOX® and the Juvederm® range of dermal fillers. As one of only nine UK surgeons and doctors selected as an LCA, she regularly trains and mentors other health care professionals in advanced injectable techniques and treatment strategies such as the MD Codes™.

In February 2018, Miss Balaratnam was selected by world-renowned Brazilian plastic surgeon and creator of the MD Codes™ Dr Mauricio de Maio, as one of his world’s “Top 50 injectors.”

“When it comes to looking good and feeling great, Sherina Balaratnam is a name you’ll want to know. A fully qualified surgeon with a background in reconstructive surgery, she’s made it her business to master the latest non-surgical cosmetic treatment innovations. Literally.”

– Tatler 2018 Cosmetic Surgery and Beauty Guide

WInneR OF ‘Best Clinic South england’ At the 2017 / 2018 Aesthetics Awards WINNER 2017

THE IS CLINICAL AWARD FOR BEST CLINIC SOUTH ENGLAND

WInneR OF ‘Best new Practice South england and Wales’ At the 2016 / 2017 MyFaceMyBody Awards

As well as being renowned for advanced cosmetic injectable treatments, at S-Thetics we have a key focus on skin health, with treatments ranging from medical grade facials through to acne and scarring management using topical cosmeceuticals, microneedling and laser skin resurfacing.

AS FeATUReD In:

The Times Raconteur ‘Skincare and Dermatology’ and ‘Future of Skincare’ supplements, Brides Magazine, Tatler, Daily Telegraph, Daily Mail, Good Housekeeping Magazine, Coutts Magazine and more.

WInneR OF ‘Clinic Reception Team of the Year, UK and Ireland’ At the 2016 / 2017 Aesthetics Awards

Tatler One of Four Super Clinics located outside London in the ‘2018 / 2019 Cosmetic Surgery and Beauty Guide’ P. 01494 670990 e. info@sthetics.co.uk www.sthetics.co.uk

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Chronic Fatigue & Pain: Tiredness explained!

Dr Shireen Saluja, Chartered Clinical Psychologist

H

ave you woken up in the morning and felt that your sleep was just not enough?

Have you felt an overwhelming amount of fatigue that has lasted over 6 months? Are there no other medical reasons to explain your fatigue? If this is the case, you may be suffering from, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS).

CFS is a syndrome that mainly targets women between the ages of 40-50 years of age. Women have been identified to be more likely to have this disorder than men.

Dr Charles Patrick Davis in his article, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) OR Systemic Exertion Intolerance Disease (SEID) identified the following symptoms presentation:*

68 AUGUST 2018

Characteristic symptoms in addition to fatigue include • Significant impairment in short-term memory • Poor concentration • Tender lymph nodes • Sore throat • Muscle pain • Joint pain without swelling or redness • Non-refreshing sleep • Malaise lasting more than 24 hours after exertion • Headaches of a new type, pattern, or severity.

My patients often come in and describe a history of severe tiredness that no one is able to understand or share. Many times these individuals will be extremely low in mood or increased in anxious thoughts. Many of these mood issues are a result of how they feel about themselves and how others view them with CFS. CFS is something that is not in one’s control. Therapy is one route of treatment to help identify appropriate coping strategies to tackle and deal with the symptoms of CFS. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is the treatment of choice for CFS. It helps identify behaviours, emotions and thoughts that we engage in every day. CBT is used to understand how some of our behaviours may be increasing our CFS symptoms, while also emotionally impacting our thoughts.

Individuals with CFS sometimes have a history of viral infections or childhood illnesses. These can be linked to meningitis, gradual fever, tonsillitis, Lyme disease etc. Research has shown some

link with these diagnoses and the onset of CFS symptoms. In addition this this, some individuals who have a diagnosis of CFS also have a trauma history. Trauma can be physical, emotional or physical in nature. The trauma related to abuse frequently presents itself later in life; after the abuse has stopped. The best example of this would be our body is in “survival mode” when we are being abused. After the abuse stops our body is not fighting anymore. Our mind is still emotionally traumatised, but our body has since learned to relax and become more aware of the stress it was experiencing. Therefore, CFS presents itself as a reaction to the trauma, bodies relaxation and being aware of the pain within our body that we may have ignored. This in turn creates pain and fatigue within our body.

Currently there is no cure for CFS, but there are a lot of lifestyle changes that can help reduce the impact of its presentation on our everyday life.

Using therapeutic services to help deal with these life changes help lower our anxiety related to CFS, identifies “triggers” related to stress, and increases our understanding and comprehension of this disorder. Therefore, using therapy service with a trained professional is a great way of lowering the fatigue and pain associated with CFS. Call us now on 0207 717 9022 info@buckinghamshirepsychology.co.uk www.buckinghamshirepsychology.com *www.medicinenet.com/chronic_fatigue_syndrome/article.

01494 258586 | hello@hillvision.co.uk 53 Hill Ave, Amersham, HP6 5BX

HOuse &

garden – Keep it local for everything house and home – I M AG E : ta ke t h e p l u n g e w i t h a n i n d o o r p o o l

H OUSE & GARDEN

[NEWS]

INTERIORS A FRESH LOOK Breathe new life into your indoor/ outdoor space with Chalk Paint™

by Annie Sloan and stencils.

From a coat or two of colour to transform your chairs to stenciling a trick-of-the-eye tile-effect table or painting a plaster-effect wall, the project possibilities are endless. www.anniesloan.com

LAYER IT UP

We just love this look! Layer your room with sumptuous textiles to add warmth and depth to the look. Start from the bottom up with the placement of a gorgeous rug. You can never have too many cushions. They help make your space look stylish and inviting. Easily changeable a cushion is a great way to update your look for the changing seasons as well as adding a pop of colour. Finish the effect with a complimentary throw. Perfect for snuggling under on the sofa or on the end of your bed. There are styles to suit all tastes. www.layeredlounge.com

SMALL IS BEAUTIFUL

Finding modish furniture with miniature proportions can be a tricky task, especially when hunting for a design-led sofa to fit a small lounge.

Sofa specialists Darlings of Chelsea have got you covered with their beautiful collection of petite sofas and loveseats which are perfect for adding a luxe feel to a bijou home. www.darlingsofchelsea.co.uk

A LITTLE BIT OF LUXE

Everyone needs a little bit of luxury in their life.

We love luxurious furniture, fabrics and metals and Melody Maison have a stunning selection for you to choose from – glamorous interiors are in! www.melodymaison.co.uk 72 AUGUST 2018

BRIGHTEN UP

Add some vibrancy to your home this summer with some unique and modern products that come in a range of exciting hues.

We love this striking Coloured Geometry Wallpaper. OOSTOR. com is an online marketplace that sells carefully curated products from independent brands from all over the world, with a focus on fashion, lifestyle and design. www.OOSTOR.com

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H OUSE & GARDEN

Take the plunge with a luxury indoor swimming pool

They’re glamorous, highly desirable, fun and great for parties.You can swim whenever you’re in the mood, irrespective of how cold and dark it is outside

E

veryone sets a budget for major purchases and it should be the same for a swimming pool – the complexity of the build, style, size and finishes chosen obviously determines the cost. Also you can incorporate a whole range of extra features including saunas, whirlpool spas, changing rooms and a gym to provide your very own leisure centre at home.

The cost will obviously vary depending on the size and style of the pool you choose, and if you are looking to have a new building constructed to house your indoor pool with any extra luxuries.

You should probably expect prices to start at a minimum of £120,000 for the swimming pool and pool building.

A successful swimming pool project requires input from multiple professionals all working together - architects, swimming pool designers, engineers and project managers. There are a number of swimming pool specialists that manage the entire project, from initial design through to getting you swimming, guiding you through every stage of the process, and helping you with the decisions and choices so you do not have to deal separately with each tradesmen.

And if you really want to splash out then a moving floor is for you! Imagine a swimming pool that doubles as a dance floor or an entertaining room or even a place to park your car? A space that transforms seamlessly from one function to another.It doubles your floor space and adds to your property’s square metres. A swimming pool that can be simultaneously a deep diving pool, a child friendly shallow depth pool or a mid-depth pool for exercise and water games whilst also offering the ability to be completely closed for security. They can be specifically designed to meet each unique and individual requirement.

Why choose a natural indoor pool?

Your indoor swimming pool water will be 100% chemical free, clean and clear, hygienic, drinkable and filtered naturally. You won’t have to suffer any of the unpleasant side effects of a chlorinated pool such as nasty smells or the potential health risks associated with swimming in chlorinated water.A natural indoor pool also comes with reduced running costs, with no need for chlorine dosing and vastly reduced pump electricity demand, running costs are up to 10 times lower than that of a conventional pool.

Revel in the luxury of enjoying your swimming pool every day of every season, and take the plunge!

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

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H OUSE & GARDEN

Heavenly Sounds from the Caruso Welcome to the Caruso Gramophone Hi-Fi System from Smithers of Stamford

D

esigned by Paolo Cappello of the Italian Furniture Designers Miniforms, the Caruso is not only the most beautiful Hi-Fi Cabinet we’ve ever seen, the sounds emitted from this glorious piece, are quite honestly the purest we’ve ever heard.

The Italians rarely get it wrong, and the winning formula of the Caruso is the sophisticated audio system which is designed to maximise the performance of the ceramic gold plated horn speaker. Genius doesn’t quite cover it.

Whilst Smithers could wax lyrical for hours on end at the sheer brilliance and craftmanship behind the Caruso Cabinet design, it is the music that is of equal importance.

Music breaks down barriers and can achieve changes previously thought impossible. It can conjure once forgotten memories, resurrect emotion that formerly lie dormant and enable courage where fear once lay.

It is this very sentiment that will make the sound quality of the Caruso completely invaulable to you.

The Caruso epitomises our love of modern day vintage living thanks to it’s genius combination of state of the art technical equipment and midcentury styling.

It stands on the edge of irony - a little bit futuristic, a little bit retro but somehow combining the styles of two very different worlds seamlessly.

Maybe its the gramophone style speaker, but listening to the Caruso speaker feels like it should be something of a ritual. Soft lighting, sweet tunes and everything else in between.

Speaking of lighting, to add even more flare to what is quite possibly the best home sound system

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“Music breaks down barriers and can achieve changes previously thought impossible. It can conjure once forgotten memories, resurrect emotion that formerly lie dormant and enable courage where fear once lay”

on the planet, there is also the optional extra of built in lighting. Nice.

Whilst the Hi-Fi speaker pays homage to the vintage gramophones of the 19th and 20th century - also the age of Caruso, the Italian born tenor from whom its name derives - do not be fooled by its whimsical appearance.

Equipped with 4.0 Bluetooth Connectivity, this is a docking station like no other. Your favourite playlists blasting through that gold plated horn are merely the touch of a button away, thanks to the dedicated app designed to be compatible with all smartphones or tablets.

Available in more flavours than a traditional sweet shop has to offer, the Caruso really is the investment purchase that instantly becomes impossible to live without. www.smithersofstamford.com

Boilers replaced – new boilers come with up to 10 year manufacturer’s parts and labour warranty.

• Full central heating systems • Conversion to combination boilers • Heat only / System boilers • Megaflo • Power flushing • Service & repairs • Underfloor heating • All aspects of drainage • General plumbing • Landlord gas / electrical certificates NO CALL OUT CHARGE

Telephone: 01753 307836 • Email: localplumbers.ickenham@gmail.com • www.local-plumbers.org

• Complete bathroom planning, design & installation • Wet rooms • Disability bathrooms • Electric showers / Power showers • Kitchen planning, design & installation Telephone: 01895 643001 • Email: localbathrooms@gmail.com • www.local-plumbers.org

FASHION, H OUSE & GARDEN HEALTH & BEAUTY

SCANDI STYLE Danish design brand Eberhart Furniture bring their blend of Scandiindustrial style to Urban Avenue

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berhart Furniture typifies the tradition feel of Scandinavian design, with its high functionality, clean lines and simple elegance. Natural elements are at the forefront of these designs, with the natural woodgrain of the solid oak celebrated. The natural oak legs work as a warming contrast against the concrete table tops, creating the striking Scandi-industrial fusion. The Eberhart furniture allows you to appreciate the beauty of natural and raw materials without a lot of ornamental detail.

The Hector dining table is an ultra-modern design in concrete and oak. Offered in three finish combinations, the table features either a concrete or massive oak surface, sitting atop a five-legged base, also in solid massive oak. A sleek brass or steel ring on the table base is functional and adds extra appeal. Optionally include the matching oak extension leaves to boost the diameter of the table from 120cm to 170cm, providing space for extra guests when required.

The chic and contemporary Daphne side table features a concrete or oak tabletop on a sleek base with three oak legs and a brass or steel ring element.

Select light concrete with natural oak base, dark concrete with black oak, or have both tabletop and

base in oak. The table is generously sized, with a 65cm diameter surface, and stands 46cm tall.

An edgy centrepiece for any modern living room, the concrete and oak Bertha coffee table has loft-style appeal in spades. The low table is offered in three variations with a choice of either a brass or steel ring element on the solid oak base.

The Aldric bistro table is an ultra-modern design, perfect for a cosy tête-à-tête or smaller spaces.

Using concrete and solid oak, the table’s streamlined form is given a touch of industrial appeal. Select from light or dark concrete options, or a tabletop in solid, un-treated oak. A signature metal ring on the base is offered in either steel or brass.

Eberhart cast their concrete using a controlled molding and curing process, before allowing the tops to harden freely. This means that each resulting surface is beautifully unique, featuring tonal differences and characteristic air holes. The light concrete tops are kept un-oiled for a raw, unprocessed appearance, and are nano-treated to help the concrete repel fluids and lessen the exposure to staining.

The massive oak used in the bases and tabletop is selected for its characteristic knots and splinters, and has not been treated in any way. This gives the Eberhart range its signature individuality and allows it to retain the appealing ashy tones of the raw wood. www.urbanavenue.co.uk

Tim Cook Kitchens

e l e g a n t | t i m e l e s s | a F F O R D a B l e | lu x u R y

the complete service for your exquisite and truly bespoke hand made kitchen.

Built from the finest luxury materials, designed to last.

timcook.co.uk | tim@timcook.co.uk | 07956 499972

H OUSE & GARDEN

[NEWS]

outdoor living Salvaged style

HOLIDAY AT HOME

Relax outdoors and feel like you’re on holiday - with beautiful sun loungers and luxurious daybeds to sunbathe on!

Gorgeous sofas to snooze on, read a book and sip a glass of wine – in the knowledge that the fully waterproof cushions cannot be marked or stained – even by the odd wine spill. And if you want a poolside beer, Bridgman have stunning bar stools and tables. The holiday feeling but at home! www.bridgman.co.uk

FIRE IT UP

Create a dramatic garden focal point with Solus Decor’s concrete Fire Bowls. The flickering glow of a fire adds atmosphere and warmth to outdoor spaces, and Solus’ fire bowls offer the perfect place to congregate on warm summer evenings. These hand-cast concrete fire pits are modern versions of traditional wood burning fire pits that use convenient, clean burning fuels. They are available in a variety of shapes, fuel types and ignition options. www.solusdecor.co.uk

…AND RELAX!

Catch some rays in utter luxury with the Fiji Sun Seeker, exclusively available at The Garden Furniture Centre. The ultimate in outdoor relaxation, this simply stunning piece of garden furniture is sure to make entertaining and socialising a pleasure for all involved. www.gardenfurniturecentre.co.uk 80 AUGUST 2018

As the old saying goes, ‘one man’s trash is another man’s treasure’, why not create a vintage inspired garden using upcycled outdoor furniture and accessories from Scaramanga. Offering a wide selection of reclaimed items that are brimming with character, Scaramanga’s unique selection is perfect for adding some individual flair to your plot. If you’re planning on creating an outdoor treasure trove, opt for antique pieces like the Red Vintage Water Tank. www.scaramangashop.co.uk

Mediterranean outdoor living

Relive summers on the Mediterranean with the POINT collection of woven outdoor furniture available at Urban Avenue.

The POINT collection is comprised of stools, dining chairs and tables, along with loungers and luxury swing sets that celebrate the joy of living life outside. www.urbanavenue.co.uk

FF M O O L E ew % RO SA r n 5 0 W Y fo es O LA ay g SH ISP w ran D ake avit m ur to D

• British and German kitchens • wide selection of tiles • wetroom specialists • friendly personal service - established 1989 • fully project managed by our own in house installation team, or supply only