Discover The Langley membership Delve into a world of wellbeing‌

D A V ON P ORT 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 hertfordshire wd3 7bq t 01923 773 906 moneyhillinteriors.com

howard kitchens & interiors Offering you the best in design, supply and installation of bespoke quality modern and traditional kitchens. Family run business over 20 years experience.

323 high street Berkhamsted hertfordshire hP4 1aL info@howardkitchens.co.uk 01442 873016 • www.howardkitchens.co.uk

ca Sy

DECEMBER ISSUE

G Q 5E IN IN N ec A M P 6 PE d H , H O d RS oad 2n ME re R A mo

49

WELCOME TO OUR

THE TEAM PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD

17, The Broadway, Old Hatfield, Herts, AL9 5HZ, UK 0844 800 8439 www.thelifemagazines.com

Get this issue online

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

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 ••••• ACCOUNTS Kathy Manning Andree Georgiou ••••• Directors Patrick Smith Rory Smith

www.amuletfinejewellery.com Open Sundays 11-4 From Nov 24th to Dec 22nd.

CONTENTS OUT & ABOUT

21

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

69

HOUSE & GARDEN

87

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

www.thelifemagazines.com

out & about – We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month – I M AG E : T H E IV Y, M AR L O W

OUT & ABOUT

7 DECEMBER

Father Christmas Grotto Visit Father Christmas in his 1940s inspired grotto and receive a Christmas gift. Booking essential, phone: 0344 249 1895. Suitable for ages 0-12 years. Please go to the Visitor Welcome Kiosk when you arrive. Hughenden, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire HP14 4LA

[events]

OUT & ABOUT until 24 december

Christmas Spectacular Odds Farm Park has been sprinkled with Christmas magic! Take an enchanting, immersive stroll deep into the sparkling, wintry wonderland in search of Father Christmas in his grotto. Then, head on into the Elves’ Workshop and Toy Shop. Book ahead: www.oddsfarm.co.uk Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire HP10 0LX

20 & 21 december

Santa Cruises On board The New Orleans, departing from Hobbs of Henley. 11.30am-1.30pm and 2pm - 4pm. Hobbs of Henley’s Santa Cruises feature the fantastically entertaining Bertie Slippers - along with the red-clad man of the moment, Santa Claus himself. With a show of magic, music, games, puppets and balloons, aimed primarily at younger audience members but with fun for adults too. www.hobbsofhenley.com

throughout december

Stowe - 12 Days of Christmas Pick up a map from the visitor welcome centre and head out on a winter walk through the frostkissed garden. Discover 12 displays celebrating the Georgian tradition of the Twelfth Night with a final flourish at The Temple of Concord and Victory. Explore 11 locations across the garden. Stowe, New Inn Farm, Buckingham, Buckinghamshire MK18 5EQ 22 DECEMBER 2019

OUT & ABOUT

[events]

OUT & ABOUT

COMPETITION TIME Win a Family Ticket to see Cinderella, starring CBEEBIES Superstar Justin Fletcher, this Christmas at The Hexagon, Reading. We have two family tickets up for grabs (family ticket is for four people) to see the fabulous Christmas Panto at The Hexagon Theatre. Starring Justin Fletcher as Buttons and Reading’s favourite (and award-winning) Dame, Paul Morse as Nanny Cuddles, Cinderella will amaze and dazzle you with spectacular scenery, costumes, singalong songs and silly slap-stick comedy. Will the wicked stepsisters succeed in ruining Cinderella’s dreams of happiness? Or will her fairy Godmother and loyal friend Buttons be able to thwart their evil plans? Come and join us at the Ball and find out!

WEDNESDAYS TO SUNDAYS UNTIL 22 DECEMBER

Christmas Fair at Waddesdon Soak up the sights, smells and sounds of Christmas at Waddesdon’s Christmas Fair set against the enchanting, floodlit backdrop of the Manor. Escape the hustle and bustle of the high street and shop for unusual gifts. Set amongst the festooned trees and housed in charming wooden chalets, browse over 80 hand-selected stalls that change each week selling handmade gifts, decorations and scrumptious food. In the grounds, you can also enjoy the winter light programme from dusk. Walk the Pleasure Grounds light trail, watch as the Manor façade is bathed in colour and find giant illuminated baubles at the Stables. Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire HP18 0JH

19-24 december

Christmas Gift Wrapping Service in aid of Scannappeal Take the pressure off and support Scannappeal. We can wrap any gift for a small donation to Scannappeal. Located outside Poundland, opposite Boots. Wrappers needed and also looking for donations of Christmas wrapping paper, ribbons or gift tags. Eden Shopping Centre, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire HP11 2DQ

10, 12 & 17 december

Wreath Making By The Fire Come and have a go at making your very own Christmas Wreath for your home using natural materials foraged from Bucks Country Parks. Enjoy hot drinks and mince pies by the fire and get creating! Langley Park Country Park, Billet Lane, Iver Heath, Bucks, Buckinghamshire SL0 0LS 24 DECEMBER 2019

To enter To enter simply answer the following question: Justin Fletcher is better known on the telly as…. A. Mr Tickle B. Mr Tumble C. Mr Universe email your answers to abi@fishmediagroup.co.uk by 10th December when we will pick two winners at random….

Cinderella at The Hexagon runs from Sat 7 Dec to Sun 5 Jan. Winners will be contacted by the Reading Arts Box Office and they will reserve tickets for you at a performance of your choice (subject to availability). Full details can be found at www.whatsonreading.com Box Office 0118 960 6060 Family ticket is for four people. Performances subject to availability.

OUT & ABOUT

The Langley Membership

Delve into a world of wellbeing

T

he former country estate of the third Duke of Marlborough, The Langley, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Buckinghamshire, combines historic legacy and contemporary style. Sensitively restored, the Palladian-style mansion, adjoining Grade IIlisted stables and Brew House offer 41 sumptuous guestrooms and suites, alongside an unequalled spa with leading fitness concept, exceptional dining and distinguished gardens, designed by Capability Brown. Offering transformative facilities and enriching treatments in the heart of Buckinghamshire’s

26 DECEMBER 2019

verdant countryside, The Langley Spa is committed to delivering an exceptional experience, with a menu of services tailored to individual needs. Setting the scene for rest and indulgence, the spectacular spa spans 1,600m2 and includes a 16.5 metre, infinityedge indoor swimming pool, extensive thermal area, five dedicated treatment rooms and a private VIP suite. Enhancing the destination’s holistic approach to health, the Spa Lounge provides nutritious dining options, with guilt-free appeal. In partnership with personal trainer Matt Roberts, the leading edge fitness suite uses technologically advanced systems and equipment to craft bespoke, goal-orientated wellness programmes. Surrounded by pristine countryside, The Langley Spa offers a plethora of healthful al fresco options, from walking, jogging and cycling trails, to swimming in the sparkling

“Enhancing the destination’s holistic approach to health, the Spa Lounge provides nutritious dining options, with guilt-free appeal”

INTRODUCTORY THREE MONTHS MEMBERSHIP OFFER

outdoor pool. “We value each and every member and look at their individual requirements. We are very proud to ensure that every member receives the best service every time they step through our doors.� Alex James, Spa Director

Membership Benefits Delve into a world of health and well-being with The Langley membership and benefit from the complete lifestyle and wellness experience we offer in this exceptional setting. Let our expert team work with you to establish your specific needs and tailor your journey every step of the way. The Langley membership includes unlimited access to all spa facilities and grounds, including the extensive underground thermal areas and seasonal access to the outdoor pool and tennis court. Membership comes with exclusive benefits including preferential rates on food and beverage, elected spa treatments and services. You will also receive special privileges with our sister hotel The Wellesley Knightsbridge, a Luxury Collection Hotel, London. Members enjoy a seasonal social calendar of events, exclusive benefits with local partners and activities, as well as members-only monthly treatment and retail offers and promotions within the spa, guest passes to bring friends and loved to experience the spa. Memberships are available for individuals,

couples, families, young adults and children. Enhance your membership with all-encompassing packages tailored to you, including lifestyle and fitness options.

Personal Training In partnership with Matt Roberts, The Langley gym is the most advanced of its kind in the UK. Boasting cutting edge cardiovascular equipment, custom-designed strength and conditioning tools and our standout feature, a state-of-the-art interactive floor and wall, designed to enhance speed, agility and power. Benefit from bespoke training with our team of highly-qualified trainers, including an initial private consultation. Personal programmes, combined with advanced equipment deliver an unparalleled fitness experience. Members also enjoy weekly group masterclasses with expert trainers.

Enjoy three months of unlimited spa access with our introductory offer when joining through December 2019 and January 2020. After three months, join as a full member to enjoy all benefits. Terms & conditions apply. Introductory three months membership excludes members benefits. Members benefits will be given if joining as a full member after the introductory offer is over. Find out more about The Langley membership and offers by contacting membership@thelangley.com or + 44 20 7236 4646. The Langley, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Buckinghamshire Avenue Drive, Uxbridge Road, Iver, SL3 6DU www.thelangley.com

DECEMBER 2019 27

OUT & ABOUT

Holidays are Coming…

The Christmas Truck Tour 2019 The iconic Coca-Cola Christmas Truck will be coming to a number of towns in London and the home counties, which will be open from 12pm and the queue for entry will close at 7pm Tuesday 3rd December: Asda, Leyton Mill, London, E10 5NH Wednesday 4th December: Asda, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD24 7RT Tuesday 10th December: Sainsbury’s Beckton, London, E6 6JF Wednesday 11th December: Sainsbury’s Basildon, }Essex, SS13 1SA Friday 13th & Saturday 14th December: Intu Lakeside Shopping Centre RM20 2ZP Sunday 15th December: 02 Arena, London, SE10 0DX To find out more about the Coca-Cola Christmas truck tour visit www.coca-cola.co.uk/trucktour

@CocaCola_GB (Twitter) @CocaColaEU (Instagram) #HolidaysAreComing *Guests at each stop will be offered a complimentary 150ml Coca-Cola zero sugar or a Coca-Cola original taste or Diet Coke upon request only 28 DECEMBER 2019

The

Christmas Truck T

UK Tour 2019

he sight of the Coca-Cola Truck is often said to mark the official start of Christmas and has done so ever since it first appeared in Coca-Cola’s famous ‘Holidays Are Coming’ advert. Over the last nine years, the iconic truck tour has brought festive joy to people across the UK. It has travelled over 800,000 miles – the equivalent of 29 times around the world . Thousands of Christmas fans have basked in its 8,772 twinkling fairy lights and enjoyed the magical ‘Holidays are Coming’ jingle,

‘Tis the season to be jolly! In a snowy winter wonderland setting, visitors will be able to enjoy festive photo moments and enjoy a small can of Coca-Cola zero sugar* to get them in the Christmas spirit. In addition, when the Christmas Truck stops at Asda and Sainsbury’s stores, shoppers will be able to purchase a pack of 250ml glass bottles of Coca-Cola zero sugar, Coca-Cola original taste and Diet Coke and have the labels personalised with their name at the truck for a special festive treat. This year, Coca-Cola has partnered with Crisis -

the national homelessness charity, which is now in its 52nd year. Coca-Cola will donate 10p for each can recycled by visitors at the truck tour, with funds going to Crisis to help people out of homelessness. The initiative not only aims to help the charity, but also encourage recycling as part of Coca-Cola’s World Without Waste goal to help collect and recycle a bottle or can for each one sold by 2025 in Western Europe.

OUT & ABOUT

EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC THIS CHRISTMAS AT THE LEGOLAND® WINDSOR RESORT 30 November 2019 - 6 January 2020

This Christmas, the LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort will be bursting with festive fun for LEGOLAND at Christmas. On selected dates from 30 November until 24 December 2019, families can enjoy Christmas LEGO themed builds, seasonal activities and the chance to meet their favourite characters, as families see LEGOLAND as they’ve never seen it before… all with a sprinkle of LEGO® magic! Plus for the very first time, families can continue the festive fun and visit LEGOLAND after Christmas, from 27 December until 6 January 2020.

30 DECEMBER 2019

F

amilies can jump aboard the Brickmas Express or take a winter stroll to Miniland, where little ones can look out for a miniature LEGO Father Christmas and his reindeer, delivering mini LEGO presents to the Minilanders. For an experience that can’t be missed, guests can venture to the Christmas Kingdom, bursting with glistening trees and twinkling lights. Here they’ll be met by one of Father Christmas’ cheery elves, who will guide them through the weaving Christmas tree forest, to Father Christmas’ very own log cabin, where little ones will meet Father Christmas and, once he’s checked his list twice, give them a special LEGO gift. Plus there’s a host of indoor and outdoor rides*, attractions and Christmas LEGO building workshops to enjoy, including the chance to write a letter to the big man himself and build a LEGO train with Mrs Christmas in her toyshop. Tickets including a visit to see Father Christmas

are £36 per person or £26 per person for Annual Pass holders and can be pre-booked online in advance only at www.legoland.co.uk. Under 2’s get free entry to LEGOLAND at Christmas. Guests can also enjoy a day at the Resort, without visiting Father Christmas with theme park only tickets, for £25 per person. This year, once Father Christmas has returned to the North Pole, guests can still enjoy a visit to the LEGOLAND Windsor Resort from 27 December 2019 until 6 January 2020. Guests will have access to all of the rides and attractions available throughout LEGOLAND at Christmas and the exclusive Christmas activities including; LEGO Builds and LEGOLAND Character meet and greets. Tickets cost £25 per person and under 2’s get free entry. To experience the ultimate Christmas Holiday, families choose a Santa Sleepover in one of the two LEGO® themed hotels, located right on the edge of the theme park – the unique LEGOLAND Hotel or the majestic LEGOLAND Castle Hotel. Packages start from £85 per person at the LEGOLAND Castle Hotel and from £75 per person at the LEGOLAND Hotel including access to LEGOLAND at Christmas, breakfast and a jampacked schedule of festive evening entertainment. Families can book their Christmas break at www. legolandholidays.co.uk/legoland-windsor-events/ santa-sleepover.html

“On New Year’s Eve the skies will light up with a spectacular fireworks display” What’s more this New Year’s Eve families can ring in the start of 2020 with a family break at LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort’s Hotels — plus brand new for this year, they can enjoy two days entry into the theme park during their stay. On New Year’s Eve the skies will light up with a spectacular fireworks display, when the clocks change to midnight at 9.30pm GMT - ‘Kids Standard Time (KST)’. Little ones can enjoy all the fun of the run up to midnight but with a sensible bedtime! After a countdown, they’ll watch the skies light up with their special 3D ‘brick’ glasses which will transform the fireworks into dazzling LEGO Bricks during the fireworks display! Packages are from £150 per person at the LEGOLAND Hotel and from £175 per person at the LEGOLAND Castle Hotel, including overnight stay, breakfast, dinner, fireworks and two days entry to the theme park. Families can book online at www.legolandholidays.co.uk/ legoland-windsor-events/new-years-eve.html

OUT & ABOUT

Celebrate Christmas with Tramp

L

ondon’s Tramp members club has enjoyed a year of celebrations in preparation for its official, 50th anniversary party on December 17 - but for those hoping to squeeze in a last toast, the iconic venue is offering members a luxurious tasting menu to help see in the new year. The club on Jermyn Street has seen in more new years than any of its competitors and just as its first members celebrated the turn of the decade in 1970, corks will pop and champagne will flow around the tables of the venue’s restaurant and discotheque. The evening will begin with Louis Roederer Brut Premier as guests are invited to take their tables for a seven course menu incorporating Turbot fillet with butter poached langoustines; Beef Wellington served with sauce Périgourdine and Champagne granita. But Tramp’s reputation was not built on fine food alone, and as the final Macaroons are polished off and guests begin to edge towards the dancefloor, it will be the club’s legendary party atmosphere that sweeps the crowd into the year 2020. It is a momentous occasion for the club, not just because it marks the end of their 50th anniversary celebrations, but because the team have been busy ensuring the next half decade is as successful as the last. General Manager, David Fleming says: “Tramp’s history is, without doubt, more celebrated and famous than any other members club in London, if not the world. But as a team, we are keen to look forwards and never rest on our laurels. “Tramp membership is exclusive and much sought after, and we continuously strive to keep it

32 DECEMBER 2019

that way, with announcements planned for the new year that will make that Gold ‘Tramp’ card even more valuable than it is today. “But our ethos will always remain the same: Great food, great cocktails, great service and a great atmosphere. “And whether it’s your first visit to the club or your fiftieth year as a member, the club is your home from home.” Prospective members may apply at www.tramp.co.uk/membership

“It will be the club’s legendary party atmosphere that sweeps the crowd into the year 2020”

OUT & ABOUT

It’s the most magical time of the year at intu Watford I

Discover what’s new at intu Watford and make it a very Merry Christmas.

f you’re looking for that warm festive feeling while you shop for your loved ones, look no further as intu Watford’s exciting new offering has everything you need, with a touch of Christmas sparkle. The shopping centre’s stunning new extension is home to new retailers Uniqlo, Mango, a three-storey Debenhams, Hollister, Superdry, H&M, Jack Wills, Hugo Boss, TGI Fridays, Yo! and much more. But that’s just one part of the intu Watford experience. Under one roof is John Lewis & Partners, Apple, M.A.C, Zara, Pandora, Cath Kidston, Sole Trader… and now the Flannels store! Decorated from top to bottom with festive lights, a Santa’s Grotto, a Gift Wrapping service and late night shopping, Christmas has arrived at the shopping centre. So, grab a Christmas drink and

“intu Watford’s exciting new offering has everything you need, with a touch of Christmas sparkle” take a stroll through the mall at your leisure – a get that warm fuzzy festive feeling. Why not make a day of it? intu Watford has more food options than ever. From its new grab’n’go street food offering near Gourmet Burger Kitchen and Tortilla, to the new Las Iguanas, Cote Brasserie and The Florist, there’s something for all taste buds. Bring the whole family, go bowling at the new 14 lane Hollywood Bowl or be blown away at Cineworld’s state-of-the-art nine-screen cinema. Reach new heights at Rock Up, the indoor climbing centre that’s guaranteed to wear the little ones – and 34 DECEMBER 2019

big ones – out. Take all the stress away and plan your visit and take your time. From Monday 9 December, intu Watford’s extended late-night opening hours will kick in, giving you more time to get your Christmas shopping sorted. Shop to your heart’s content from 9am-8pm every day except Sundays – and don’t forget parking is £2 after 5pm. Throughout the festive period, intu Watford will be collecting donations at the magical colourchanging tree for Home-Start and running its Give a Gift campaign where people can donate a gift for someone elderly this Christmas. Don’t forget that intu Watford is now open until 8pm every Thursday, Friday and Saturday! It’s time to #discoverintuwatford For everything you could possibly want this Christmas, the intu Watford Gift Card gives your loved ones the gift of all sorts of possibilities – especially for those slightly-awkward-to-buy-for ones. Find out more at www.intu.co.uk/watford

OUT & ABOUT

Copper House Launch Champagne Afternoon Tea

well we are loving the solid brass cake stands that quite frankly, we wish we could take home…!

Tea, Champagne or Both? The British love affair with ‘a cup of tea’ is played out daily in homes throughout the land. Afternoon Tea at Copper House takes this to new heights with not just one or two teas to choose between, but ten TeaSmiths blends! You can also upgrade your Afternoon Tea with a glass of Champagne, where again, you have not one but three by the glass alternatives.

The Perfect Present

W

ell as we are coming to the end of 2019, we are delighted to share some exciting news for the new year…no longer will we have to trek into London to experience a luxurious Champagne Afternoon Tea as the fabulous Copper House in Berkhamsted is bringing it right to our Hertfordshire doorstep!

Copper Classic or Copper Vegetarian? As we have come to expect from this wonderful new entrant into the Hertfordshire food scene, the Copper House kitchen team have served up two delightful options for those either wanting a more classic afternoon tea, versus those that would prefer a vegetarian version. Both feature delicate finger sandwiches, fluffy scones and a devilishly delicious selection of cakes and pastries that include a white & dark chocolate cheesecake and the moistest banana loaf we’ve ever tasted. As for the stands,

36 DECEMBER 2019

Given the season, if you’re struggling for a present idea, you can now buy Afternoon Tea Gift Vouchers online from the Copper House website at www.copperhousebar.co.uk Priced at £60 for a standard Afternoon Tea for Two and £78 for a Champagne Afternoon Tea for Two, we think they would make the perfect gift.

The Finer Details… Bookings for Afternoon Tea are available from 7th January 2020 Afternoon Tea is served between 12-4pm, Tuesday to Friday Website: www.copperhousebar.co.uk Instagram: @copper_house_berkhamsted Facebook: /copperhousebarberkhamsted

OUT & ABOUT

Are you really selfemployed?

T

here has been a huge increase in the number of self-employed people in the UK. The number of female freelancers has grown by 55% since 2008, due in part to mothers choosing to take up freelance work rather than return to full-time office employment after having a baby. Comparatively, the number of men freelancing has grown by 36%.* But this thriving industry is about to receive a huge shake up in April 2020 when the private sector firms that contractors work for, will have to take responsibility for confirming the true status of their relationships. IR35 (which is part of the off payroll working rules) is a set of regulations that intends to combat tax avoidance by consultants who are providing a service to clients via a personal services company (PSC) and would be considered, for tax purposes, to be an employee of the end user company. IR35 has often been criticised for being overly complex, disruptive to business and poorly executed by HMRC – in fact figures from 2017 show that the government department has lost 5 out of every 6 challenges to its IR35 related fines. In order to tackle the challenges associated with IR35, significant changes are being made in 2020, that will have a wide -ranging impact both on end user companies and the consultants themselves.

Key changes in 2020 On 6 April 2020, the end-client will become responsible for establishing whether a contract engagement with a consultant via its PSC falls within the rules. Up until then, it is the responsibility of the person supplying the services to make this determination. The rules will bring the private sector in line with the changes brought in for the public sector in April 2017. 38 DECEMBER 2019

This new legislation will only apply to medium or large businesses. There will be an exemption for end-clients who are ‘small businesses,’ where the responsibility for determining the IR35 status of a contract will remain with the PSC and the new changes will not apply. It’s important to note that the government has included clauses in the legislation to ensure that medium or large businesses do not set-up arm’s length companies or subsidiaries to procure services from PSCs. The legislation will apply to the parent company based on the aggregate amount of turnover and the aggregate amount of the balance sheet total of the connected entities. There’s no small business exemption for public sector organisations and the legislation will apply to all end-clients engaging PSC workers in the public sector.

Check of Employment Status Tool (CEST) HMRC recognises that CEST needs to be improved if businesses and contractors are to make correct decisions on whether off-payroll working rules apply. Many experts agree believing that its assessment on; whether a contractor has control over tasks, if they bear financial risk; whether they can be substituted for another contractor (which should all be in place), and mutuality of obligation (which considers the extent of the requirement to be offered and to accept work); is not effective. In fact, CEST is only able to provide an answer in 85% of the cases. The Chartered Institute of Taxation has given its view that CEST needs a substantial upgrade before the new off-payroll working rules are introduced “if businesses are to make the correct decisions on whether the off-payroll working rules apply.”

B P Collins can help If you engage a consultant or currently provide your services as a consultant through a PSC, it is important to act now to assess your engagements to see whether you fall within the rules. If you’re also unsure about whether the outcome of a CEST search is accurate and need an expert opinion, please contact Chris Brazier, employment partner at chris.brazier@bpcollins.co.uk or call 01753 279029 for further advice. *Source: Open Access Government

OUT & ABOUT

Starting the week right D

o you work from home, run your own business or like a bit of company while you work? Laptop Monday is a co-working initiative established by local business owner Mark Harris, which has now expanded into in Beaconsfield, Gerrards Cross and Henley. The co-working concept is all about providing a free and informal setting to work at your laptop in the company of others. Every 2-3 weeks, the groups will meet at a range of secret locations across Beaconsfield, Gerrards Cross or Henley. Venues include hotels, golf courses, cafés, airfields, restaurants and everything in between. The hosts always guarantee good wifi, great coffee and excellent company and work hard to try to secure venues with free parking too. Becca Cranfield who set up the Gerrards Cross and Beaconsfield group, was a regular attendee before becoming host, she says “for me, Laptop Monday is the highlight of the week and you can’t go too wrong if your week starts on a high.” Running a business from an office at home, Becca enjoys Laptop Monday for the company “I work so much better with people around me and it’s been so useful to find new places that I can work during the week too.” With many more people choosing to work from home, Laptop Monday is growing in popularity. Regular attendees are also benefitting from sharing ideas and working together during the sessions. Whilst some use the time for concentrating on big projects, others utilise the opportunity to ask other business owners for opinions and ideas. Many take

40 DECEMBER 2019

advantage of the networking opportunity and have started collaborating with other attendees. Jason Candlin, Commercial Photographer and owner of Silver Beard Images has been attending Laptop Monday since it launched in Gerrards Cross and has welcomed the opportunity to meet others who work in the creative industry. “I didn’t approach Laptop Monday as a networking event however as you work away conversations crop up and you get to know people by default. I’m often out on the road and only dealing with the current client, Laptop Monday brings lots of small business owners together and and you never know who you’ll bump into. At one of my first events I met Chris, who runs a network for creative and marketing agencies locally and it’s really helped me to expand my contacts with fellow creatives, which brings lots of opportunities to collaborate. I’ve recently started developing my own business marketing strategy working with another Laptop Monday attendee. The relaxed co-working means I get stuff done and expand my network, the concept just works so well.” Both Becca, and Henley host Isobel Harris, are always on the look-out for new venues too. Previous venues have included Revolution and Beech House in Beaconsfield and Badgemore Park Golf Club in Henley. For venues, the key requirements are: availability from 9:30am – 12:30pm on a Monday for up to 16. Space to comfortably work at a laptop throughout this time and a reliable wifi connection. Free parking is a bonus and somewhere to purchase refreshments is a must.

THE DETAILS For information on all groups and upcoming dates please visit: www.linkedin.com/company/ laptop-monday/ To find out about the Gerrards Cross and Beaconsfield Group email becca@athenastonecare.co.uk To find out about the Henley Group email isobel@isobelharris.biz

OUT & ABOUT

Parental Alienation T

he way children experience the breakdown of their parents’ relationship varies between each individual child. Their feelings may show themselves in any number of behaviours including withdrawal and frustration which may culminate in emotional outbursts. What is clear from research undertaken is that a child’s feelings and reactions are influenced by the adult behaviour they witness and whilst the majority of parents are able to contain the hostility they feel towards the other, some are not. The lack of ability to control this animosity can, in turn, impair a parent’s ability to co-parent responsibly and as a unit with the other parent. Harmful conflict may arise when parents are caught up in the turmoil of a relationship breakdown and children are often caught up in hostile communication. This is not in the child’s best interests and can cause real damage in the longer term. Having both parents in their lives in some way, regardless of their shortcomings, is very often to the benefit of the child unless there are welfare concerns that may cause them harm. At their most extreme, parents unable to manage how they feel towards the other may misuse their parental position in such a way as to cause emotional harm to their child. This can include

42 DECEMBER 2019

alienating the other parent from the child’s life. Parental alienation is now accepted by the UK Court system and Cafcass (the court welfare officers) as emotional abuse of children. It therefore must be addressed and remedied. Although there is no single definition of parental alienation, Cafcass have recognised it as arising when ‘a child’s hostility towards one parent is not justified and is the result of psychological manipulation by the other parent’. Typically it results in a parent being rejected for no justifiable reason and it can have a life-long impact on a family. Parental alienation is but one of a number of reasons why a child may not want to spend time with one of their parents post-separation. All potential factors, such as domestic abuse, attachment and justifiable rejection must be considered before assessing other potential factors. There is now specific guidance available to Cafcass officers who are responsible for reporting to the court on suspected parental alienation cases. The Child Impact Assessment Framework (CIAF), built on existing guidance, has been developed to assist Cafcass Court Advisers to identify and equip those responsible for making decisions about a child’s welfare with the right tools to unearth the reality of family dynamics.

Emma McMorrow

If you are experiencing issues regarding living or contact arrangements for your children post-separation or you have concerns surrounding potential parental alienation, please contact specialist Emma McMorrow for advice. Tel: 0207 129 7915 or email: family.enquiries@ roydswithyking.com

Inspirational • Breathtaking • Imaginative • Excellent • Beautiful

Some comments from customers about our designs for kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms

Visit us today Masterclass • Sottini • Utopia • Crown • Vanity Hall

OUT & ABOUT

Chef Laurie Gear

December recipe & kitchen news

T

his seasonal recipe makes a delicious dessert for any festive party or gathering, it can be made in advance and stored in your freezer till required. Pitted Agen

prunes are best suited to this recipe and rum or brandy can be used as an alternate with the prune syrup. The sponge can be of course a readymade one if you are in a hurry.

RECIPE: Agen Prune and Armagnac Parfait Ingredients Serves 4 • Pate a bombe • 6 egg yolks • 140 g caster sugar • 4 tbsp water • 450 ml double cream • 5 tbsp Armagnac • 20 cm / 8-inch Victoria sponge about 5 cm thick For the prune conserve • 450 g pitted prunes • 125 g caster sugar • 100 ml Armagnac

Method 1. Start by making the prune conserve. Chop the prunes and put in a pan with sugar and 250 ml cold water 2. Bring to the boil then simmer till you have a jam like consistency. Cool then add the Armagnac when still just warm 3. Next whisk the egg yolks in a bowl and reserve 4. In a pan heat the caster sugar with the water to 112 c / 237 f 5. Very slowly whisk this into your yolks a few drips at a time until combined Allow to cool Next whip the cream to soft peaks whisking the Armagnac gradually as it starts to thicken. 6. When the egg and sugar mix is cool fold it into the cream. 7. Slice the sponge horizontally into 2 thin layers. In a terrine place a sheet of sponge and soak it with a little of the prune syrup from the top of the prune mixture. 8. Top with half the prune conserve spreading to make an even layer Top with the egg cream mixture Bang your pop out terrine tray on the table to remove any air pockets Freeze overnight To serve 1. Remove from the freezer a couple of minutes before serving and cut with a hot knife. 2. Serve with some of the remaining prune conserve on the side. 3. As an optional finishing touch, you could pre make a brittle caramel sheet on a baking sheet over grease proof paper cutting it when cool to top your parfait portions

44 DECEMBER 2019

Festive Diary Dates In the run up to Christmas we are open as usual, offering our seasonal Menus. It is not too early to book that festive party or gathering in December, to share the Christmas cheer with family and close friends. Take the stress away and let us organise that special intimate celebration or event. Additionally, we will also be open for three special Festive Sunday Lunches this year on Sunday 8th, 15th and 22nd December. Come and enjoy a relaxing Sunday Lunch with us! ***On our Sunday Lunch Openings we offer the Eight, Six and Five Course Tasting Menus and our three courses Artichoke Menu at £55.00*** The Artichoke Restaurant 9 Market Square Old Amersham Tel: 01494 726611 www.artichokerestaurant.co.uk

F I N E

E N G L I S H

B U T C H E R S

Our passion is quality meats & service Our goal is to offer you quality produce & great service Come back to a real butcher this Christmas and let your family taste the difference. ORDER EARLY FOR CHRISTMAS

GIVE US A TRY THIS CHRISTMAS YOU WON’T BE DISAPPOINTED! • Free Range Bronze Turkeys • Free Range Geese, Ducks and Sutton Hoo Chickens • Boneless Turkey Crowns • Boneless Stuffed Turkey Crowns • Grass Fed Dry Aged Beef • Free Range Lamb and Pork • Homemade Quiches, Scotch Eggs, Sausage Rolls, Cheese Pate, Homemade Pigs in Blankets and Pies • Homemade Beef Wellingtons • 3 Bird Roasts We are now serving hot and cold food all day. Aberdeen House, Hazlemere Crossroads, Hazlemere HP15 7LG Tel 01494 711803 Tudor House, High Street, West Wycombe HP14 3AE Tel 01494 526880

www.rstrouttbutchers.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

London’s Coolest Ice Rinks London is a magical place to be at Christmas. With twinkling Christmas lights and trees set to the backdrop of some of London’s most iconic locations, a trip to an ice rink is a must. Here’s our pick of the best – they are only open for a limited time so get your skates on before it’s too late!

Queens House, Greenwich

Somerset House

SKATE AT SOMERSET HOUSE Open until 12 January 2020 (except Christmas Day) Hailed as one of the capital’s favourite winter experiences with unrivalled skating, groundbreaking music, seasonal shopping and delicious food and drink. The stunning courtyard is the backdrop to a beautiful ice rink and an impressive 40ft Christmas tree. The alpine-inspired Fortnum’s Lodge offers a range of delicious après-skate treats and The Fortnum’s Christmas Arcade brings a special selection of the iconic grocer’s products for festive shoppers. www.somersethouse.org.uk

Festive fun for everyone, penguin skating aids are available for your little ones! With a host of exciting attractions, rides and shows for all ages it is a onestop festive day out set in one of London’s most iconic locations. www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

TIFFANY & CO SCENTED WINTER WONDERLAND & ICE SKATING Open until 26th December 2019, Covent Garden’s East Piazza A unique pop-up with the magic of the holiday season in an interactive, sensorial experience. The shopping and entertainment hub has been transformed into a wintry destination inspired by the holidays in New York City, home to the legendary jewellery house. Guests are immersed in a world filled with oversized Tiffany Blue Boxes, sparkling snow, a snowman, a one-of-a-kind Tiffany & Co. ice-skating rink and a four-foot bottle of Tiffany Eau de Parfum inside a snow globe. www.eventbrite.co.uk Tiffany & Co Scented Winter Wonderland

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

HYDE PARK WINTER WONDERLAND Open until 5 January 2020 (except Christmas Day) Welcome to London’s spectacular Christmas destination! The UK’s largest Ice Rink surrounds the picturesque Victorian bandstand, where you can unwind and glide with a gentle musical backdrop. 46 DECEMBER 2019

SKATE AT THE QUEEN’S HOUSE, GREENWICH Open until 12 January 2020 South London’s only outdoor ice rink this winter. Located within a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the elegant surroundings of Royal Museums Greenwich, the Queen’s House Ice Rink is a magical place. You can enjoy stunning views of the River Thames and Greenwich Royal Park as you glide your way around the rink and enjoy warming treats from the food and drink stalls. During museum opening hours, cafes and bars will also be open at the National Maritime Museum and Cutty Sark. Little ones are also catered for with penguin skate aids for children. www.rmg.co.uk/skate

OUT & ABOUT

Hampton Court Palace

your little ones, The Penguin Skate Club will be running lessons for children aged four to eight. Acoustic Lates returns with intimate and unique free performances from some of the best new and emerging musical UK talent. www.nhmskating.com Skylight

SKATE AT SKYLIGHT LONDON

SKATE BACK IN TIME AT HAMPTON COURT PALACE Open until 6 January 2020 (except Christmas Day) For an unforgettable festive experience, look no further. Located in the gardens of the magnificent Tudor palace, the outdoor ice skating rink offers a memorable winter experience where King Henry VIII once lived. Whether a skater or spectator, you can enjoy delicious snacks and drinks day and night at the Ice Rink Cafe Bars. Offering a scrumptious selection from comforting soup and hot pies to indulgent drinks, it’s the perfect place to meet friends against the backdrop of one of London’s finest Palaces. www.hamptoncourtpalaceicerink.co.uk

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM ICE RINK

“Located in the gardens of the magnificent Tudor palace, the outdoor ice skating rink offers a memorable winter experience where King Henry VIII once lived”

Open until 12 January 2020 (except Christmas Day) Set against the stunning backdrop of one of London’s best-loved landmarks, the glistening ice rink is topped off with a sparkling 30ft Christmas tree. The Café Bar has a bird’s-eye view of the rink and open for seasonal treats, providing a place to stay warm out of the winter chill. For Natural History Museum

48 DECEMBER 2019

Tower Of London

Open until 25 January 2020 (except Christmas Day) Skylight takes your ice skating to new heights at London’s only real-ice rooftop ice rink. Show off your skills and get cosy up in one of the stunning igloos and mountain huts.or down in the snug bar. Or head to the heated après skate bars illuminated with glimmering lights, serving up delicious foodie offerings and an array of warming wintery cocktails, mulled wine, beers and ciders www.skylightlondon.com

TOWER OF LONDON ICE RINK Open until 5 January 2020 (except Christmas Day) For a truly magical and unforgettable experience, ice skate at the city’s most iconic historical landmark, As you glide around the spacious rink, take in the ambience of the fortress beside the Thames. There are early morning sessions for little skaters and families, with evening skating under twinkling lights adding to the dramatic jaw dropping views. Head to the Ice Rink Café & Bar for snacks and indulgent treats and, Friday and Saturday evenings, cocktails are served by an expert mixologist of the Four Seasons Hotel. www.toweroflondonicerink.com

OUT & ABOUT

INFORMALITY GALLERY “Informality hosts a minimal, curatorial space, the like of which is new to the town of Henley on Thames, and aims to create a wider audience for contemporary art in the Thames Valley”

50 DECEMBER 2019

I

nformality, a new independent gallery operating in the UK, sits on the edge of the Chiltern Hills in the Thames Valley in Henley on Thames. The gallery curates and supports international artists, dedicated to themes such as the environment and coexistence. The gallery operates consciously considering the impact on the environment by undertaking sustainable procedures. The gallery has a dynamic contemporary programme under this context, to investigate and discuss new ways in which the visual perception of art can be changed by carefully considering art and environment combined, exploring mediums such as installation and digital devices, as well as artists who reinterpret classical mediums. Informality hosts a minimal, curatorial space, the like of which is new to the town of Henley on Thames, and aims to create a wider audience for contemporary art in the Thames Valley. The gallery has a strong desire to educate, holds events including talks with exhibiting artists, and seminars for young or emerging collectors as well as tours to art fairs and collections. Informality’s opening exhibition, The Curious Eye Never Runs Dry, featured works by Australian painter Anthony White. The exhibition dealt with confronting themes of late capitalism, injustice and migration through abstract works largely involving aggressive gestural mark making. The exhibition closed with an In Conversation event between gallery director and Anthony White where the artist talked about his process and inspiration behind his work and the recent exhibition. The talk was well received to a new audience and the gallery looks forward to introducing other international artists in the future. In addition to the gallery’s programme, Informality has a mission to support Australian contemporary art by curating projects and entering

art fairs site-specifically. Director of the gallery, Frederick McDonald, spent several years working in galleries and operating among museum boards in Australia, working with Australian contemporary artists. Returning to the UK, Frederick became aware of their lack of exposure in the UK, and wanted to provide selected artists with an opportunity to show their work in the UK, for what will be for some their first solo shows in the UK. Informality has thus far curated two exhibitions beyond its Henley space. The first in Suffolk, at Snape Maltings titled Painting During Technology, featuring work by artist/illustrator Brian Grimwood. The exhibition explored the use of technology as a new method for painting, combining it with the digital medium. The second, and first in London, was Inflection, a collaboration with Pi Artworks, a renowned Turkish gallery, and featured acclaimed Australian sculptor, Jamie North. This was North’s first solo show in the UK and consisted of blown glass terraria playing host to living plant species surrounding an eroded column made up of blast furnace slag. Selected works from the exhibition are currently available to view at the gallery in Henley. Informality’s program of international artists brings together an eclectic mix of works, examples of which can be viewed in the gallery’s current group show, Symbiosis.. Symbiosis presents work across a variety of mediums spanning photography, painting and sculpture. The included works explore the artists’ co-existing, physical associations and interests in the environment around them. The show runs until 18th January. Informality through its connections is also available to advise and support clients in sourcing artworks in the secondary market. Find out more at www.informality.co to sign up to the gallery’s mailing list for further events and exhibitions.

OUT & ABOUT

HA Price Butchers: back by popular demand

H

A Price Butchers of Holtspur Parade, Beaconsfield, occupied the shop from 1957 through to 2016. Deciding that the time had come to focus on other areas of his business, including the catering, BBQ and Hog Roasts, Derek decided back in 2016 that the time had come to close the shop. With the disappointment from loyal customers and the fact that actually, he still had time on his hands Derek chose to still run a butchers but rather than the traditional retails shop that we all recognise, more of a personalised service. Derek has been running the butchers this way, predominantly over social media and word of mouth ever since. Offering high quality products at heavily reduced prices due to minimal overheads Derek is bringing the locals of Beaconsfield the standards of meat that they have always enjoyed, at amazing prices. Derek’s years of experience mean that he knows the best places to source the meat products and the marinades that he uses. Selling traditional joints, aged English beef, English lamb and English pork as standard you can expect you can expect only the best. So, how about when you want that little variation to the norm? A variety of options are available for his clients, marinated lemon chicken, teriyaki chicken, hand-made pork skewers for the BBQ, handmade sausages and other seasonal

52 DECEMBER 2019

“Derek’s years of experience mean that he knows the best places to source the meat products and the marinades that he uses” offerings all available on the pre-order pick up Friday morning basis. This new service, with weekly offers started with a focus on Christmas. Do you know where your Turkey came from? If you buy from HA Price they can tell you EXACTLY where it came from – a couple of miles away from the farm where Derek and his team breed the turkeys in a free range, totally organic environment. Hand plucked and hung for 7 days he can offer small turkeys for 2-3 people all the way up to a turkey to feed over 20! Taking orders now, these turkeys will be ready for collection on Sunday 23rd and Monday 24th December from Holtspur. And don’t forget to add onto the order his infamous Pork Crackers. Hi own sausage meat recipe, blended with herbs and breadcrumbs and wrapped in streaky bacon this is the ultimate in stuffing and pig in blanket combination! With a variety of joints available, don’t forget to order the meat you want for Boxing Day too. So, what started as a traditional Butchers shop that almost came to a close, transitioned into a Christmas service that is now growing again, offering top quality products on a pre-order and collection basis that is available throughout the year. If you haven’t ‘liked’ the Facebook page yet, hurry and do so to ensure you hear about all of the latest offers and get your order in for Christmas. A simple process, comment your order, once it has been liked the order is placed, all you need to do is collect! Call 07714 406182. www.facebook.com/H-A-Price-Butchers

Price Butchers

We’re still here! Back by popular demand HAMpER OFFERS

Mini Turkey Hamper 1.8-2kg rolled turkey crown 1x12 pig in blanket 1x12 pork chipolatas 250g pork sausages 250g streaky bacon £24.99 Medium Turkey Hamper 2.5-3gk rolled turkey crown 1.8-2.2kg rolled topside 24 pigs in blanket 500g pork sausage meat 500g pork chipolatas 500g streaky bacon 1.8-2.2kg unsmoked gammon £58.00 Luxury Turkey Hamper 1x 4.5-5.5kg free range local turkey 24 Pigs in blanket 500g pork sausage meat 500g pork chipolatas 500g streaky bacon £65.00

Call 07714 406182

ORDER NOW FOR CHRISTMAS

Do you know where your Turkey comes from? We do!!! Try one of our local, free-range hand plucked turkeys. Just quote magazine and get 10% off your Turkey. Pick up from (Rear Basement) 6 Holtspur Parade, Beaconsfield, Bucks HP9 1DA. Available to collect on Monday 23rd & Tuesday 24th December Call 07714 406182 to reserve yours

FEATURE

Christmas

Gift ideas Santa Baby! You can be your very own glamorous Mrs Santa this Christmas all wrapped up in this exquisite crimson and black embroidered French basque with matching tanga. Add some spice to your Christmas wish list at Odette in Old Amersham where we can tempt you with stunning lingerie, slinky silk nightwear or cosy loungewear. We also have a fantastic selection of swimwear and cover ups if you are escaping to warmer climes over the holiday period. Open 9.30-5.30 Mon -Sat The Broadway Old Amersham HP7 0HL. Tel: 01494 725711

2

aubade.com

: Mazarine BOR Agence Ph: Lucian

1

ODETTE

CHRISTMAS BEAUTY Our talented team of hair, beauty, wellbeing and aesthetic experts, equipped with the very best products, provide a personalised service that delivers results you are looking for in all areas of self-care.We pride ourselves on our shared passion for ensuring that every client that steps through our doors feels truly wonderful about themselves. What makes us special is our commitment to providing the utmost professionalism in a completely relaxing atmosphere, keeping you at the centre of all that we do. For our full list of services please visit our website: www.ellethebeautybox.com info@ellethebeautybox.com 01494 721 532 @ellethebeautybox

3

4 £2,300

£2,775

£4,275

£7,625

£7,200

£18,500 £6,000

JEWELLERY FROM THE JEWELLERY WORKSHOP AMERSHAM These stunning pieces will add glamour, sparkle and complement any outfit this festive season. www.jewelleryworkshopamersham.co.uk

54 DECEMBER 2019

“Taylor Benfield’s luxury scented candles are inspired by travels to beautiful holiday destinations”

5 LUXURY SCENTED CANDLES Taylor Benfield’s luxury scented candles are inspired by travels to beautiful holiday destinations. Choose from captivating scents including Spiced Noir (warming) and Floral & Ginger (botanical). The larger Home Candles make impeccable Christmas gifts for friends and family while the Travel Candles are the perfect stocking filler size. From £12 at www.taylorbenfield.com

HANDMADE LIQUEURS Christmas is sorted with these delicious award-winning handmade liqueurs including Rhubarb Gin, Christmas Vodka and Bramble Whisky. They come in a variety of beautiful bottles from Christmas tree decorations to large hip flasks all of which can be personalised with a handwritten message of your choice. www.oxtonliqueurs.co.uk 07831 668762

6

“They come in a variety of beautiful bottles from Christmas tree decorations to large hip flasks”

ALPACA SOCKS

The Gift of Sleep Sleep soundly this holiday season

7

Struggling to sleep affects us all, and finding a solution can feel hopeless. Woolroom believes that you are entitled to a regenerative sleep – night after night. With their natural bedding, the perfect sleep is now attainable. Using specially selected British Wools, the range boasts numerous advantages over synthetic alternatives. Wool is comfortable, sustainable and hypoallergenic, eliminating the issues that cause poor sleep routines. Join the thousands of happy customers and try the range for yourself! You can visit their website or pop in store to sample the range: www.thewoolroom.com. 38 West Street, Marlow, Bucks, SL7 2NB 01628 472287

For the most exquisite, soft but hardwearing alpaca socks look no further than Perilla. All socks are yarn dyed and knitted in the UK and have hand-linked toes and range from child sizes to large adult sizes. The 75% baby alpaca walking socks shown are one of the many ranges that are produced to include 90% alpaca bed socks, knee length country socks and ski socks, plain or striped. Bespoke gift box options are available. perilla.co.uk. 01886 853 615

8 DECEMBER 2019 55 dec

CHINNOR & PRINCES RISBOROUGH RAILWAY

STEAM SPECIALS 1st, 7th, 8th,14th,15th, 21st, 22nd & 23rd of December Indulge in a special family treat with a magical steam train ride to see Santa. Reserved seat comfort with a seasonal cordial and mince pie - Santa and his Elves will distribute a quality present to every 1-15 years child on your journey! Adult - £12, Child (1-15) £10. Earlybird - £2pp discount on 1-2 & 8-9 DEC!

MINCE PIE SPECIALS 28th to 30th December & 1st January Best the post Christmas blues with a steam train trip and a mince pie.

www.chinnorrailway.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

Aladdin

Theatre Royal Windsor presents

Friday 29 November – Sunday 12 January

81ST YEAR OF PANTOMIME AT THEATRE ROYAL WINDSOR Theatre Royal Windsor is opened its 81st pantomime on Friday 29 Nov with the magical tale of Aladdin! Aladdin is thought to be the first pantomime performance to have been undertaken by the historic Windsor Theatre Repertory Company in 1942. Join us on this magical carpet ride of a show, featuring Theatre Royal Windsor’s traditional pantomime comedy capers, with a sprinkle of magic and dazzling dancers, colourful costumes and a glittering star cast.

ALL-STAR CAST This year’s star cast is headed up by stage and screen star Paul Nicholas (Just Good Friends, The Real Marigold Hotel) musical legend Marti Webb (Evita, Tell Me on a Sunday) and not forgetting the little fox with the big laugh, Basil Brush! Joining Paul, Marti and Basil are Windsor’s favourite calamitous comedy duo, Kevin Cruise and Steven Blakeley who are celebrating their 10th year in Panto together at Theatre Royal Windsor.

10 YEARS OF KEVIN CRUISE AT THE WINDSOR PANTO 2019 not only marks the tenth year of Kevin Cruise starring in Windsor’s pantomime, it’s also the tenth anniversary of a true pantomime partnership between Kevin and Windsor’s dame, and panto writer, Steven Blakeley. Martin Cabble-Reid, the alter-ego of Kevin Cruise, says: “I can’t believe it’s 10 years I’ve been playing comic at Theatre Royal Windsor. The theatre is truly a second home to me – the staff and crew become like family at this time of the year. To also celebrate 10 years working alongside my partner in crime, Steven Blakeley makes this a year not to 58 DECEMBER 2019

be missed for our wonderful and loyal audience. It wouldn’t be the same without their support, love and kindness every year.” Steven Blakeley says: “I’m thrilled to be doing my 11th panto at Theatre Royal Windsor, particularly as it’s my 10th year of working with Kevin Cruise. Having built up such a close working relationship over the years it’s nothing short of an absolute pleasure to step out on stage with him. I just wish he’d learn the lines I write for him!?!?!? Despite that, this year looks set to be another fun and exciting one!”

MORE RELAXED PERFORMANCES FOR ALADDIN Following the success of last year’s first Relaxed Performance for Dick Whittington, Theatre Royal Windsor has scheduled two Relaxed Performances for Aladdin: Thursday 5 Dec, 1.30pm and Thursday 9 January, 2.30pm. Relaxed performances are adapted for families with children with an Autistic Spectrum Condition, individuals with sensory and communication disorders, those with learning disabilities and anyone who would benefit from a more relaxed environment. A Relaxed Performance relaxes some of the traditional ‘rules’ and format of theatre-going, for example adjusting lighting levels, sound levels, no need to sit quietly during the performance and audience members welcome to come and go as they wish during the performance. The experience is designed to reduce anxiety, promote freedom of expression, and ensure a safe and enjoyable time. Theatre Royal Windsor is committed to making Theatre accessible for all. Aladdin’s Relaxed Performances are being supported by Dimensions, a not-for-profit organisation supporting people with learning disabilities and autism.

THE DETAILS Please contact the Box Office for further details on relaxed performances: 01753 853 888.

OUT & ABOUT

THE IVY MARLOW

CELEBRATES THE CHRISTMAS SEASON WITH LIMITED-EDITION COCKTAILS AND DESSERT

T

he Ivy Marlow Garden is delighted to be adding four limited-edition cocktails to its menu this winter, as well as a mouthwatering festive dessert for all to enjoy. Available from Friday, 15 November to Wednesday, 1 January, all four bespoke cocktails will be sure to get guests into the spirit of Christmas. Put together by the brasserie’s talented bar team, delicious creations will include the ‘Winter Bellini’ (£9.50), featuring Tawny Port, cranberry juice and a splash of prosecco, and a warming ‘Gingerbread Latte’ (£3.75), with Monin gingerbread syrup alongside hot milk and a pinch of ground cinnamon. Guests will also be able to enjoy a ‘Roasted Chestnut Julep’ (£9.75), which combines Monin chestnut syrup, maker’s mark, lemon juice and sugar syrup, and last but not least, a traditional ‘Mulled Cider’ (£9.50) with double jus, Aspall mulled cider, brown sugar, star anise, orange twists, clove, chocolate bitters and a cinnamon stick. For those with a sweet tooth, the ‘Santa’s Buckle’ dessert will make a guest appearance to the menu and includes a delicious mix of Christmas pudding mousse, brandy ice cream and caramel sauce. The perfect ending to any festive meal. Richard Martinez, General Manager at The Ivy Marlow Garden says: “With Christmas just around

60 DECEMBER 2019

the corner, we are delighted to be adding these limited-edition items to our already extensive menus. Whether you’re popping in for festive cocktails or simply wishing to add something special to the end of your meal, we’ll have something to suit all occasions.” For reservations please visit www.theivymarlowgarden.com or call 01628 902777

OUT & ABOUT

APPLE ASH, WOODLANDS ROAD, HENLEY A stylish and opulent home, on one of Henley’s quiet residential roads, sits Apple Ash – a new-to-market property from local agent Philip Booth Esq Ltd.

A

t over 100 years old, Apple Ash is a celebration of colour and style, having been refurbished fully by its current owners, Sandy and Colin Brooks-

Johnson. Apple Ash is their third major renovation project – having previously transformed a former museum into a hotel – and they are now planning their next move, to a smaller property that also needs attention and renovation. Having been the proud owners of Apple Ash for almost eight years, Mrs Brooks-Johnson explains “We are thinking we should be downsizing, and we really would love another project”. The couple carried out all the improvements and refurbishments themselves, adding a boot-room, an orangery, and totally transformed the almost nonexistent garden. “I love a bit of vintage and I love colour, I always have done. I’m a real textiles girl, I was in the rag trade before so I have always loved fabrics and textiles.”

Apple Ash is semi-detached, the former wing of what used to be a large mansion house that was divided into separate dwellings some years ago, with generously proportioned rooms with high ceilings. Virtually every room downstairs has doors out into the garden. Before retiring, Mr Brooks-Johnson worked in the music business managing artists and bands. He managed Status Quo for over 18 years, as well as The Stranglers, Rod Stewart, Mott the Hoople and a whole load of other acts over the years. Apple Ash is brimming with charm, and many of its original features such as ornate ceilings and dado rails have been carefully preserved. The elegant entrance hall has a stylish ceramic tiled floor, and 62 DECEMBER 2019

“Apple Ash is semi-detached, the former wing of what used to be a large mansion house” opens into a jaw-droppingly lovely drawing room with an ornate fireplace and two sets of double doors that lead out to the garden. The kitchen boasts a dark blue two-oven Aga set in a fireplace with pretty Delft ceramic tiles and a timber beam above, hand-painted furniture and granite work surfaces and opens into the recently added orangery – a wide, bright, sun-soaked space with arched double doors and a limestone tiled floor with underfloor heating. There is also a study, a cloakroom and a utility room on the ground floor. There are two en suite bedrooms on the first floor, and a family bathroom and three further bedrooms up on the second floor, two of which also have their own en suite facilities. The master bedroom has a peaceful, private balcony overlooking the fields. It also has a dressing room with fitted wardrobes, a wet room with Tadelakt Moroccan plaster walls and a mosaic tiled floor, and a bathroom with a freestanding roll-top bath. The landscaped garden at Apple Ash is especially lovely with a kaleidoscope of trees and shrubs and a wide terrace, raised flower beds, a number of sheds, a greenhouse and a well-nurtured and productive vegetable garden. There is another garden and a driveway with plenty of parking space at the front of the house, behind electric gates with a secure entry-phone system. Apple Ash is a simply fabulous house with an immense amount of character and is on the market with a guide price of £1,695,000.

THE DETAILS For more information, call Philip Booth Esq on 01491 635343.

At a glance APPLE ASH, WOODLANDS ROAD, HENLEY Bedrooms: five Bathrooms: five Receptions: four

Henley-on-Thames £1,695,000 An elegant wing of a large country house with 5 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms. Opulently refurbished this is an exquisite example of a house of this era. Period features include fireplaces, dado rails and high ceilings with ornate ceiling roses. Modern features include a fabulous orangery with under floor heating. EPC - D Call Phil Booth 07795 422284

Henley-on-Thames £2,000,000 Tucked away on one of Henley’s most prestigious residential roads, this handsome property sits on a large plot with mature gardens, approaching 0.75 acres. The property offers 5 bedrooms and 4 reception rooms, has woodland walks on the doorstep and yet is within walking distance of Henley town centre. EPC - E Call Phil Booth 07795 422284

Christmas Common £1,250,000 A 4/5 bedroom detached family home with flexible accommodation over two floors. Ideally situated set back from the road and within walking distance of the popular local pub. The property sits in a plot approaching 1 acre and also has far reaching west facing views over the Oxfordshire plain providing spectacular sunsets. EPC - D Call Phil Booth 07795 422284

Henley-on-Thames £950,000 A modern and recently extended 4 bedroom detached home with 3 en suite and a family bathroom. High specification kitchen breakfast room, garden room with bi-fold doors to the rear garden, sitting room. Scope for a self contained annexe on the ground floor. Underfloor heating. Plenty of off road parking. EPC - B Call Phil Booth 07795 422284

OUT & ABOUT

A Turkish dining experience at Chanak

W

e had the pleasure of dining in Chanak recently. Once again, they surpassed all expectations. A warm welcome from Turgut the owner, impeccable service and really friendly waiting staff. always a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere, giving us plenty of time to explore the tantalising tastes offered on the menu. I started with King Prawn Sauté which is pan fried Indian Ocean king prawns cooked with ginger oyster sauce, a touch of garlic and marinara sauce finished with fresh cream. I chose this as it reminded me of a Spanish dish with similar ingredients that I love, and it did not disappoint. The prawns were good sized, the flavour of the dish delightful. My dining partner of the evening was my teenage daughter and she chose a firm favourite of her own, Kalamari. It ticked all the boxes, full of flavour and she was very happy. For main, my daughter chose Chicken Kofta Beyti, a hand-minced herb & pepper blended chicken kofta mounted on a wide iron skewer, grilled then wrapped in a salsa filled tortilla and served with rice and salad. Flavoursome and not overly spicy. Perfect. I ordered the Mixed Kebab Lamb shish, chicken shish & butcher kofta served with rice & salad – I have had this before and whilst I try to have something different, I couldn’t say no and went back to this favourite of mine. We spoke to Turgut, the owner of Chanak who explained that they marinade the finest quality meat in a highly guarded secret recipe – it was delicious. The lamb was juicy, the flavoursome chicken was tender and moist. Served on a warm 64 DECEMBER 2019

pitta with rice and salad this dish was beautifully presented with a taste that delivered in every bite. Such a healthy option too! The portion sizes at Chanak are considerable – to the point where I could only manage a coffee for afters – with a couple of spoonful’s of my daughters sticky toffee pudding. Not really a traditional Turkish choice however, hit the spot none the less! Chanak caters very well for all tastes, with a range of seafood dishes as well as vegetarian dishes. Children can enjoy smaller versions of the signature kebab mains and there are numerous sides to compliment all options. A spacious restaurant you can also enjoy the internal décor showcasing the most beautiful Turkish Rugs adorning the internal walls. Open seven days a week serving lunch and dinner, the restaurant caters to times that suit all. Be quick to book in if you are looking for a place to eat pre-Christmas, they have some great specials available, and New Years Eve has a set menu with entertainment too. To pre-book your dining experience, call 01628 529999. 66-70 The Parade Bourne End SL8 5SS chanak.co.uk

“Chanak caters very well for all tastes, with a range of seafood dishes as well as vegetarian dishes”

ADVERTISING FEATURE

MANAGING AN INHERITANCE R

eceiving an inheritance can generate mixed feelings – sadness that a loved one has passed away, relief that maybe some debts can be paid off, or uncertainty over how best to make use of your inheritance whilst ensuring there’s something left to pass down to future generations. Receiving an inheritance may be the first time you’ve had to worry about investment options and can be quite daunting if that’s not something you have experience of. There is no one right answer as everyone’s circumstances are different, but some things to consider are…. • Paying off any expensive credit cards & store cards first • A lot of mainstream mortgages today are at very competitive interest rates, so it wouldn’t necessarily make sense to pay down a mortgage as your money could be put to better use depending on your attitude to investment risk & return. For some people, they just want to know the mortgage is gone and paid off. For others, if the mortgage payments are affordable and they’re happy the mortgage will be paid off before retirement they might prefer to invest their inheritance elsewhere to potentially generate capital growth… (it’s always best to take proper advice on your situation, and check with your lender first to see whether early repayment charges apply) • One thing’s for sure, with cash savings interest rates at historically low rates and inflation at c. 2%, money held in cash will go backwards in real terms, so that’s probably not the answer • Many people have in the past opted for ‘bricks & mortar’, and have bought Buy to Let properties. Whilst property has been a good performing asset class the tax rules around second properties have become particularly punitive and so on its own, residential property is becoming less attractive. Coupled with the fact that it brings with it the hands on hassle of dealing with tenants, and managing repairs & maintenance (which are often underestimated), it’s not always the ‘passive’ investment it’s thought to be I work with clients to provide professionally managed and well diversified investment options that suit their personal circumstances and objectives. These are tailored to their attitude to risk and regularly reviewed and managed by me to form part of their overall financial life plan. Using the most appropriate investment tax wrappers is also important, to ensure everything is as tax efficient and admin easy as possible during your lifetime, and will pass down to the next generation as tax efficiently as possible too. If you’ve had to pay Inheritance Tax on your inheritance, you’ll understand the importance of timely tax planning! The key point is to get some proper financial advice and look at options that work for you and your situation. Unless you’re familiar with the financial industry there’s every chance you ‘don’t know what you don’t know’ and a professional can

66 DECEMBER 2019

inform you and guide you through the options to make the best decision for you and your family If you would like to discuss your financial situation / inheritance please call Mandy Rodgers on 07824 408990 or email mandy.rodgers@sjpp.co.uk for a no obligation discussion on how I can help. The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds you select and the value can therefore go down as well as up. You may get back less than you invested. Equities do not have the security of capital which is characteristic of a deposit with a bank or building society. The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time. The value of any tax relief is generally dependent on individual circumstances. The Partner Practice is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives. www.sjp.co.uk

“I work with clients to provide professionally managed and well diversified investment options that suit their personal circumstances and objectives”

Have you thought about your estate and what would happen in the event of your death? If you don’t plan ahead, you could be donating a large slice of your hard-earned money to HMRC rather than your loved ones. Death is not an easy subject... but it’s an important one if you want to make sure your family are in the best possible situation should the worst happen. • Investment planning • Pension planning • Estate planning • Later life planning • Protection advice

Mandy Rodgers is passionate about helping her clients on all aspects of financial planning, taking the complexity and stress out of what can be a daunting topic for us all. Get in touch:

www.mandyrodgers.co.uk

07824 408990

mandy.rodgers@sjpp.co.uk

Mandy Rodgers Wealth Management is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products

fashion, HEALTH

& beauty – Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – i m a g e : O D E T T E L ING E RI E

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

M

odern patchwork ideas and luxury layering are at the centre of fashion focus. Dresses from sleeveless to fit and flare varieties, as well slim cut models. Blouses have a tunic form, as well as tops in oversized silhouette. Wide leg pants or slim cut take your choice. Colour range includes ivory and black accentuates and adds depth. Prints present themselves as two tone designs. Andrew Gardner, The Tanyard, Tring Road, Wendover, Buckinghamshire HP22 6ND 01296 625488 www.andrewgardner.co.uk

Spotlight on 70 DECEMBER 2019

DECEMBER 2019 71

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

In the Bag After some winter arm candy? Katie Wright reveals the best buys of the season.

Croc bags At Bottega Veneta, Chloe and Lanvin, luxe croc has taken over from boring old leather in the accessories department, with shiny bags in bright hues and interesting shapes. A mini croc bag is ideal for evening, while a mid-sized bucket bag is more practical for daytime.

Fuzzy bags While designer brands are lining up to declare they’ll no longer use real fur, the faux stuff is all over the catwalks, with fun fluffy bags in teddy bear textures. A furry bag elevates a cosy winter outfit, giving your usual jeans, jumper and wool coat combo a fashionforward edge.

Maxi bags

T

he finishing touch to any outfit, a handbag is a wardrobe must-have, whatever the season. And for this autumn/winter, you’re spoilt for choice, with everything from glitzy party clutches to furry shoulder bags for everyday wear. Inspired by the catwalks, here are the five bag trends you need to know about, and where to shop them on the high street right now...

Mini bags The biggest bag trend of AW19 is actually... the smallest. Just when you thought designer handbags couldn’t get any tinier, Jacquemus came out with a micro top handle bag so small that it fits in your palm. Practical? No, of course not, but that’s not the point. These darling little things are for those nights when all you need to carry with you is your phone, keys and lipstick.

Boxy bags As the sportswear trend has reached its peak, we’ve seen a reaction to all those casual clothes with the arrival of shiny, boxy bags on the catwalk - it’s a bit like carting around a vanity case or jewellery box. The antithesis of the slouchy hobo bag, these straight-edged beauties should always be teamed with your festive finery. 72 DECEMBER 2019

Does the absurdity of the micro bag trend make you want to roll your eyes and shake your head? Fear not, because at the other end of the accessories spectrum you’ve got the likes of Lanvin and Proenza Schouler making the case for extra-large bags, so you can tote around all your essential belongings (and probably some non-essentials too) and still be on-trend.

bugatti canali gant eton meyer stenstrรถms paul & shark gran sasso fynch hatton jacob cรถhen dubarry stemar barkers crockett & jones laboratory perfumes

www.andrewgardner.co.uk The Tanyard, Wendover, Buckinghamshire, HP22 6ND 01296 625 488

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

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.

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

S-THETICS MEDICAL AESTHETIC CLINIC

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

Marlborough House, 45 Wycombe End, Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, HP9 1LZ 74 DECEMBER 2019

“S-Thetics is a one-stop shop for world-class non surgical treatments for face and body.” • The Hydrafacial • 1 of 4 European launch clinics for EMSculpt, the world’s 1st FDAapproved device to build muscle and burn fat • 1St clinic in England outside London to launch SculpSure, FDA approved body contouring and fat reduction treatment • Cosmetic injectables including Juvederm facial fillers and muscle relaxing injections • Laser skin rejuvenation • Femilift laser treatment for vaginal tightening and stress urinary incontinence • Radiofrequency skin tightening and microneedling • VISIA digital skin imaging and VECTRA full body imaging 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.”

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

“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 ‘Clinic Reception Team of the Year, UK and Ireland’ At the 2018 / 2019 Aesthetics Awards

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, You magazine, Coutts Magazine and more.

Named Miss Sherina Balaratnam 1 of the UK’s Top 5 Doctors for Dermal Filler treatment In the Tatler 2019 / 2020 Beauty & Cosmetic Surgery Guide P. 01494 670990 E. info@sthetics.co.uk www.sthetics.co.uk DECEMBER 2019

75

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

HIP PAIN DO I NEED TO CONSIDER A HIP REPLACEMENT? Osteoarthritis of the right hip with a previous left Birmingham hip resurfacing

Post right total hip replacement

Mr Gian Singer, MB FRCS FRCS Orth, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon. Mr Singer has been practicing at the Spire Thames Valley Hospital for the last 20 years as a hip specialist SYMPTOMS: A patient may develop hip pain due to a variety of reasons but the commonest is simple osteoarthritis. The pain is generally felt over the front of the hip in the groin and tends to be referred down the thigh to the knee. The pain is brought on by activity, and there may be difficulty with putting on shoes and socks.

WHAT ELSE COULD IT BE? Patients with pain around this area may also be suffering from pain referred from the low back. This pain tends to be felt more in the buttock and down the back of the leg. Muscular pain from the tendons that work the side of the hip or trochanteric bursitis is also commonly seen and that pain is felt very much on the side of the hip. This can be treated by either physiotherapy or injection of cortisone.

WHAT SHOULD I DO? Patients generally seek help from their GP or a physiotherapist in the first instance. Alteriation of daily activities, analgesics or anti-inflammatory medication, topical anti-inflammatory gels, and fish oil supplements, can all help to ease the condition. Light aerobic exercises such as brisk walking is encouraged but one should avoid impact activities such as jogging. Physiotherapy or osteopathic treatment may also help. Once these measures have been tried then a referral should be made to an Orthopaedic Hip Specialist. Seeing the orthopaedic consultant involves discussion about the nature of the pain and an examination of the hip. X-rays are performed to assess the degree of arthritis and if these are inconclusive, an MRI scan may be indicated. If the diagnosis is confirmed and patients have tried non-surgical measures, then hip replacement surgery 76 DECEMBER 2019

would be discussed along with the pros and cons of the surgery. On some occasions an injection of corticosteroid would be advised.

WHAT DOES A HIP REPLACEMENT INVOLVE? Patients attend a pre-operative assessment visit at the hospital one to two weeks before. The surgery can be performed either under a general or regional anaesthetic. Mobilisation is commenced the next morning and this is supervised by our team of physiotherapists. Patients are given blood thinning medication to prevent deep vein thrombosis and compression stockings to be worn for a total of 5 weeks. Patients will generally stay in hospital for 3 – 4 days. At home they are given instruction to perform physiotherapy exercises. Patients should avoid driving a motorcar for 6 weeks and they can return to work at 6 – 8 weeks. Hip replacements generally last for 15 years or so depending on activity and lifestyle.

Mr Gian C. Singer FRCS Orth Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon

The Out-Patient Department The Princess Margaret Hospital Osborne Road, Windsor Berkshire SL4 3SJ

Spire Thames Valley Hospital Wexham Street, Wexham Buckinghamshire SL3 6NH

Secretary and Appointments Tel: 01753 665416 Fax: 01753 665018 kim.hilton@spirehealthcare.com www.berkshirehipclinic.co.uk

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

“Dr Google” has often been the scourge of many medical practitioners and those in the healthcare industry; however, at the heart of this is an audience seeking to rationalise the benefits of both conventional and holistic therapies. The real question is whether synergies exist between the two, acting as a force multiplier in reaching a positive outcome? In and out of hospital in his 20s with a chronic skin condition, Jamie Rice was driven to answer this question, through a personal journey and academic qualifications in nutritional science. The positive results and life balance Jamie encountered both as a student and qualified therapist, has informed his view of the merits of conventional and complementary therapies. Through ‘insight’ workshops and clinic sessions Jamie works to map out the relationship between lifestyle, nutrition, metabolism, genetics and associated health symptoms. This approach often succeeds in providing a moment of clarity, upon which clients are better able to recognise how dietary and lifestyle adaptations bring benefit; focusing on the most effective approaches. Committed to holistic therapies, Jamie is a registered Nutritional Therapist and Functional Medicine Practitioner now based in Beaconsfield. He is registered with both the British Association for Nutrition & Lifestyle Medicine (BANT) and the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC). 78 DECEMBER 2019

The Benefits of Vitamin D3 & K2 Combined I f you haven’t already, now is a good time to consider supplementing with vitamin D3 as your stores will likely be low. During the summer months our bodies make vitamin D3 when skin is exposed to the sunlight. Over the winter months, however, our vitamin D levels dwindle due to the lack of sunlight. Supplementing over the winter months can restore vitamin D levels to normal. Testing your vitamin D status is important for assessing how much you require. So why are adequate levels of vitamin D important? Studies have linked adequate vitamin D status to better health. Deficiency has been linked to low immunity, fatigue and low mood; all of which are common complaints over the winter months. When used in conjunction with vitamin K2, studies have shown vitamin D3 can be beneficial in supporting cardiovascular and bone health. Research suggests that Vitamin D3 and K2 appear to work synergistically to enhance absorption of calcium into the bones and the teeth where it belongs, and away from other tissues where it can cause hardening, such as the arteries. Both vitamin D3 and K2 are fat soluble vitamins and should always be taken with a form of dietary fat such as eggs, avocado, olive oil, nuts, meat or fish to increase absorption. www.jamiericenutrition.com Tel: 01494 681134

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Feel the sparkle with the perfect Odette Lingerie gift this Christmas! Moulin Rouge Parisian lingerie is the ultimate luxury gift for Christmas, this season wow with the gift of a stunningly designed basque. A gift from our basque selection will be a treat to be treasured from season to season, giving the body a flattering curvy shape in all the right places and ultimate feminine feeling. This gift will offer sexy and seductive fun. Colours to focus on are red and deep black, exaggerating the feeling of sassiness.

Slip into something sultry

F

inding the ideal Christmas present or even something to treat yourself with, in the festive period isn’t an easy job. Even more so, if you are not sure what lingerie is the best option for a Christmas gift. At Odette Lingerie we have a wealth of experience and a collection that will offer something for every lucky lady. We suggest going with something unique and beautiful. It’s a gift, so instead of thinking basics, look for something more fabulous than practical. Who wants practical on Christmas anyway? So, here is our guide on what will make for a very merry Christmas. When buying a gift, focus on who are you buying it for: Always think of the tastes of the person you are buying lingerie or nightwear, the likes and dislikes of the person. To help you find the perfect gift this Christmas, we can set up a personal Wish List for each customer, so set one up for yourself before sending in that special person to shop for you!

80 DECEMBER 2019

Nightwear in the winter should not mean functional and uncomfortable, it should mean finding sultry and sumptuous pieces you can lounge in on those winter nights feeling warm and fabulous. Collection pieces like a matching nightdress and gown will be the perfect gift for winter wear. We offer an extensive range of nightwear and our pieces cross the divide between extra feminine and attractive. Ultra-wearable, we select nightwear to support in all the right places and from the finest fabrics.

Va Va Voom Velvet Velvet will forever be the fabric of choice at Christmas, giving a distinctive soft feel. They don’t say “smooth like velvet” without reason! We have this statement piece body with floral flock velvet pattern, to be worn as lingerie or outerwear this party season. Giving you that va va voom feeling.

Peekaboo Be playing with your stocking fillers and pop in one of our beautiful eye masks. This season our range includes these limited editions, luxury silk eye masks, which come in a variety of fun colours and hand drawn designs. A bespoke piece that is the perfect gift to add to anyone’s gift delivery (or even your own!). Old Amersham’s award-winning Odette Lingerie specialises in lingerie and nightwear, with beautiful brands from around the world, selected for their quality, style, and above all, fit and comfort.

the details To find out more, call 01494 725 711 or check out odettelingerie.co.uk

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Little Christmas Luxuries…

G

2

osh, where has the year gone?   In a blink of an eye, we are thinking of Christmas and all its festivities including what to buy for presents! This season I went in search of  luxury and have found some truly wonderful treats to spoil your special people or just to include on your own list.  After all, we can all do with a little extra love.

5

6

1

4 8 7

10

9 12 11

13

1. Phenomenal Woman scarf, £225 - brora.co.uk & in store; 2. Silk Twill 90x90cm square scarf, £250 garyjamesmcqueen.com; 3. Illuminating Moisture Balm, £45 bobbibrown.co.uk; 4. BLEU DE CHANEL 2-IN-1 moisturiser for face and beard 50ml, £39 chanel.com/en_GB; 5. N°5 EAU DE PARFUM mini twist and spray, 3 x 7ml, £66 chanel.com/en_GB; 6. Herringbone socks in Bordeaux, £14 londonsockcompany.com; 7. Cinnamon Stella logo shoulder bag, £630 stellamccartney.com 8. Silk Merino Wool Bow, £195 alexgorebrowne.com; 9. Cashmere Tweed Chartouche – Unisex, £195 brora.co.uk & in store; 10. Jo Loves Christmas Layered Candle 225g, £80 joloves.com; 11. Bespoke 6 card vertical wallet in Chocolate, £225 anyahindmarch.com, Bond street, Sloane Street & Ledbury Road; 12. Tempo, Men’s Eau De Parfum 75ml, £120 diptyqueparis.com; 13. Unisex inflight case in Electric Blue, £195 – anyahindmarch.com, Bond street, Sloane Street & Ledbury Road

82 DECEMBER 2019

3

I hope I’ve made your Christmas shopping a little easier. So from my family to yours, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year everyone. Thank you for letting me share.  Look after yourselves, until next time Ladies and Gents STOP, LOOK, BREATHE Sj x sksandhu79

FREE

Teeth Whitening worth £295 after treatment

FREE Invisalign consultations – Limited time Save £95 Join more than 7 million people worldwide with a straighter smile thanks to Invisalign and take advantage of a FREE And, if you go ahead you will qualify for a FREE teeth whitening worth £295

What have you got to lose? Book today on 01923 282691

Dr Shameek Popat BDS (London), MFGDP (UK) and Associates Rosebank Shire Lane, Chorleywood, Hertfordshire, WD3 5NH

Telephone: 01923 282 691 Email: info@rosebankdental.co.uk

www.rosebankdental.co.uk

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

aHhelping hand ome Help got under way having worked alongside many care agencies that provided a service that was not predominantly about compatibility or consistency. Working in an individual’s home is a private affair and it requires a trusting, consistent working relationship. This is what I can offer with Home Help. The driving force for setting up Home Help supports my passion for encouraging an individual’s independence and confidence in the comfort of their own home. All my wealth of experience and maturity can only be a positive contribution to any individual, requiring a professional and discreet service at home. The objective is to continue to promote and support confidence in an individual’s ability to remain in their own home, regardless of advanced years or infirmity. Home Help can support an individual in many ways. This could be getting out of the house, support with household tasks, light cleaning, assistance at the beginning or the end of the day and including personal needs too. No one has the same care requirements as the next person, and the

84 DECEMBER 2019

flexibility and personalised service that I can offer is driven by the individual and builds directly around their needs at the time. There are no lists of what can or can’t be done, I work with the individual to best respond to them. My career within the care industry started out as a Saturday girl working in a care home kitchen, washing up. I was soon working my way up the ranks to be a care assistant. The position, although demanding and hard work was instinctual, I soon discovered my natural ability to care. Having worked with many different client groups including the elderly, the learning disabled, young adults suffering with addictions and mental health issues, I discovered that my transferable skills to each client group was intuitive. To further development my skills, I decided to pursue a career in nursing. I practiced for over 10 years as a trained nurse, specialising in forensic/ mental health. Home help encapsulates all of my experience, it allows me to demonstrate my ability to establish great working relationships with individuals in need of support. Deonne English: 07928 401303

“I soon discovered my natural ability to care and the desire to help others”

Deonne English Do you need a little more independence, or assistance with your healthcare and household needs? Deonne English, a former trained nurse offers a wealth of experience and support in daily healthcare needs to support home living and independence. From assistance at awakening and getting the day started through till retiring at the end of a day. Each day is different and Deonne is able to offer flexibility and personal support when and where it is needed. Considering home-help is a big decision. Welcoming someone new into your life and home can be daunting. Deonne is happy to meet with the receiver or family members to help to ease the process in. If you, or someone you care for would benefit from Deonne’s support, call her for an informal chat on 07928401303

House &

garden – Keep it local for everything house and home – I M AG E : SHO W S TO P P E RS

H OUSE & GARDEN

Berko Christmas shopping If there’s one thing you do this Christmas, make it a visit to Tobias Oliver Interiors. This stunning interior design showroom and shop, on Berkhamsted High Street, offers luxury interiors, furniture and accessories all personalised for your home.

senses. The tonal palette mixed with bold blues and gold shimmers provides a luxurious yet comfortable feeling downstairs. Whilst travelling upstairs you will find the one-of-a-kind showstopper kitchen finished in imperial blue lacquered marquetry, and a champagne inspired bathroom, with luxury finishes such as the white mother or pearl inlays and Candido marble. The design studio’s walls are adorned with bespoke artwork as examples of stunning commissions the team produce for their long-standing clientele. After three weeks of opening, the showroom was announced as a finalist at the Society of British Interior and International Interior Design (SBID) Excellence Awards, for Best Retail Design, proudly shining a light on our beautiful town of Berkhamsted. Tobias Trigg, the delightful designer who runs Tobias Oliver Interiors, has gained a wealth of experience working with the most elite interior design houses in the world. He now keeps a loyal following of prosperous clients whom he has worked closely with to help them realise their dream homes. Tobias’ instinctive passion for interior design, attention to detail and customer service are the key elements to the brand’s emerging success and continued evolution.

T

obias Oliver Interiors work with a range of high-end and luxury brands; such as L’Objet - many of their products could only previously be found in Harrods, and Porta Romana who offer the iconic lighting synonymous with unique design and artisanal craftsmanship. The unique hand-blown candles from the exclusive Baobab Collection, furnish the showroom with a heavenly scent inspired by the enchanting space and wild nature of Tanzania. The striking showroom is set out like a sumptuous apartment and works in tandem with the bespoke interior design service offered by Tobias and his team, giving a feel of seamless elegance… with a hint of Tobias Oliver quirk! Whilst you journey around the showroom you will find many surprising delights that await, creating a visually stimulating experience to awaken your

88 DECEMBER 2019

Since opening its doors in July of this year, Tobias Oliver Interiors has been a welcome new addition to the bustling market town of Berkhamsted. Tobias has settled quickly back into his original hometown, making important connections within the local community. Over the last month alone the team have donated over £6000 in design packages, gifts and donations to local charities and fundraisers. These include a Grand Auction prize at the Sparkle & Glitter Ball,

to raise funds for the much-loved local Hospice of St Francis, as well as support of ‘CRY’ - Cardiac Risk in the Young. Additionally, they are supporting the proposed 21st Century Hospital in West Herts fundraiser. The team undoubtedly enjoy supporting good causes, as October also saw them attend, back and encourage ‘The Interior Designers’ pantomime to raise money for Screw Cancer, attending the Gala Dinner at The Banqueting House on Whitehall, London – an event that raised over £400k for an important charity close to Tobias’ heart. Tobias Oliver Interiors are now excitedly planning for the festive season ahead and have recently installed their Christmas decorations which adorn the outside of the building, as well as compliment the array of products for sale inside. Tobias and his team warmly welcome you to visit and enjoy this Christmas together, in style. The Showroom and shop are open seven days a week – just buzz the doorbell to be READER pleasantly welcomed. OFFER: SAVE Of course, all items can also be found online. There’s a special Christmas offer exclusively for our readers to gain 10% off in the month of December, just add the code LIFE15 at the checkout, or in-store. Perfect for those last-minute Christmas pressies! www.tobiasoliverinteriors.com

10%

H OUSE & GARDEN

Origin - It’s a lifestyle O

rigin are Britain’s leading indoor pool company and pride themselves on their ability to do it all. Origin specialises in the design, construction and maintenance of swimming pools and their award winning designs have been delivered by their dedicated team for over 35 years. Designing and building a swimming pool and pool house is quite unlike any other building project as indoor swimming pools consist of three major areas that require specialist design. Origin’s experienced team manage the entire installation process from initial design to completion, and beyond. They eliminate the need for you to employ and manage separate companies for each element of the build, removing the potential risks, duplications and head- ache of liaising between architects, engineers and builders. Simply put, they do it all and keep you informed at every stage so you can relax and take a step back, secure in the knowledge that their experts will all be working together to the same brief from the start.

90 DECEMBER 2019

New for 2020 - Origin Redesigned Throughout the year, Origin has been hard at work completing numerous projects. With each one they try something different and learn something new and their most recent project was no exception. What started as a barn design pool house was transformed into what you see below after the client approached them, inspired by another building they had seen. This design is unlike anything Origin has built before and needless to say, both the company and the clients are thrilled with the results. As Origin do it all, they were able to work closely with the clients from the start, take on board their vision and come up with a design that was not only feasible, but one that looked great too. Everything about the pool house is unique, from exterior shape to the application of the cedarwood planks used vertically instead of a horizontal layout. The interior pool house boasts a kitchen area, changing room and bathroom facility as well as a stunning pool, contemporary sliding doors that allow the outside in and a virtual transparency to take account of the amazing surrounding countryside. This project, while different has proved that Origin’s years of knowledge and experience are second to none and

“Origin were tasked with coming up with a solution that didn’t compromise our view” any prospective pool owners will be inspired to see what is possible when you work with Origin. “We love looking at the view out from the house down into the garden, so Origin were tasked with coming up with a solution that didn’t compromise our view. The contemporary sliding doors and glass panels on the pool house provide this, we can see straight through all the way to the end of the paddock.” “The thing about Origin is that you get this overwhelming sense that everyone knows what they’re doing, it fills you with confidence. We always felt like we could talk with someone from Origin whenever we needed.” “Our own oasis”

What’s next? Origin have just launched their new-look website containing the advice centre which features articles from their bi-weekly newsletter, that includes tips and tricks for getting the most out of your pool as well as educational features and testimonials from previous projects. The aim of this is to create a place where their clients can go to find inspiration for their own projects and be a part of the Origin community. Soon Origin will also be gearing up for the 2020 SPATA awards, Origin are proud of every project they complete so to be acknowledged at these award ceremonies is a true testament to the whole Origin team. www.originpools.co.uk

PERFEct Wood FLooRS

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

info@spacers-uk.com | maidenhead@spacers-uk.com

H OUSE & GARDEN

[NEWS]

INTERIORS

PARTY PIECES CREATE A WINTER WONDERLAND

Create the ultimate winter wonderland with a made-to-measure, removable Christmas wall mural from Wallsauce. From snowy birch trees and reindeer to illustrated folklore patterns and mystical landscapes, choose from a vast range of beautiful images and bring the magic of Christmas to your home. Whether you’re looking to create Santa’s grotto for the children or are hosting fashionable parties, take your Christmas decoration to a whole new level. With over 60 designs for you to choose from, you’re sure to find a design for any room and any style. www.wallsauce.com

With a shining new decade on the horizon, it’s the perfect excuse to throw the ultimate New year’s party to celebrate in style amongst family and friends. Combine glitter & sparkle with vibrant neon hues to create the perfect party atmosphere. www.lights4fun.co.uk

gorgeous interiors gifts

Why give the special people in your life something ordinary this year when you could get them something extraordinary? This year, we’ve curated an extra special selection of glamorous goodies, ensuring there’s something for everyone on your nice list! www.sweetpeaandwillow.com

top of the table

The idea behind Mineheart is to create a playground for creativity and adventure, where fantasy meets design, and dreams meet industry. The Mineheart Ceramic collections can spruce up any dining spaces this Christmas with a selection of plates, ceramic dogs and clocks. www.mineheart.com 92 DECEMBER 2019

PLATING UP Whether you’re looking to add some quirky character to your Christmas dinner table or need to stuff those stocking filler features with more great ideas, why not feast your mince pies on this delightful decor! www.redcandy.co.uk

Window, Door, Orangery installation services

Dedicated installation teams. Over 39 years experience

Covering Bucks, Beds & Herts New Showroom: Unity House, Chilton Road, Chesham, HP5 2AT Free Parking. Opening Hours Mon-Fri 8.00am – 5.30pm, Sat 9.00am – 2.00pm Chesham: 01494 776242 | Watford: 01923 260636 | info@window-wise.co.uk | www.window-wise.co.uk

H OUSE & GARDEN

Everything You Need To Know About Dulux’s Colour of The Year 2020

Every autumn, Dulux reveal their colour predictions for the year ahead. A source of inspiration and hope, they seek to tap into the current Zeitgeist, using the evocative language of colour to express what words and politics cannot. This year, they’ve released four key palettes – Meaning, Creativity, Care and Play. Central to each chromatic composition is the shade ‘Tranquil Dawn’— a milky sage that oozes serenity. According to the experts, “it reflects a growing desire to understand what it is to be human at a time when advances in technology are making us feel increasingly disconnected.”

94 DECEMBER 2019

A

nd while colour might seem like an optimistic salve to such an existential issue, we know that our environment has the power to shape how we think and feel, which in turn informs our actions. Creating a home that rejuvenates, inspires and soothes is a necessity in today’s hyperconnected world, and colour offers us a crucial way in. With this in mind, we’ve taken each of the palettes proposed by Dulux and investigated how they can be deployed to create a stylish and inspiring home. The meaning palette features neutrals that go beyond the usual beige and into more promising, evocative territories. Dark charcoals meet sea-shorn greys only to be uplifted by hazy greens and soft lavenders. Together, they offer a sophisticated alternative to pastels, swapping bubbly millennial hues for something a little more serene. Our top tip is to contrast these cool tones with rich and indulgent fabrics for a cosy and comforting look. Think B&B ITALIA‘s quilted HUSK SOFA or GUBI’S perennially stylish REVERS CHAIR in velvet. When it comes to wood, black-stained or darker finishes provide a beautiful contrast point, allowing these soft neutrals to really sing. Creativity encapsulates the piquancy of autumn, peppering traditional earthy hues with dusty jewel tones. Dramatic and daring, it’s a rich and sophisticated palette for those who feel more confident experimenting with colour. One easy way to get in on the trend is by incorporating a colourful lacquered bookcase into your interior. CATTELAN ITALIA‘s WALLY makes a gorgeous statement in soft teal, acting as a striking background for this autumnal interior. GALLOTTI & RADICE‘s gorgeous Art Deco style collection also lends itself well to such dusty jewel tones, with the AUDREY ARMCHAIR and Syil Cabinets a perfect duo. The

key here is to have fun, mixing styles and shades for optimal results. The care palette goes right to the heart of the Tranquil Dawn campaign, serving up soothing pastel hues to create a relaxing and inviting space. A mix of delicate ochres, muted pinks and ocean shades, it lends itself particularly well to Scandinavian styles with GUBI, MUUTO and FRITZ HANSEN leading the fore. Ideal for bedrooms and kitchens, we recommend incorporating furniture with a minimal design language to help emphasise the poetry of the palette. MUUTO’S FIBER BARSTOOLS or LOUIS POULSEN‘s YUH FLOOR LAMP are a particular delight, inviting clean lines into open space. The play palette is the most serendipitous and encourages you to spark colourful conversations through contrast. Ideal for vibrant bedrooms, it takes sunny upbeat hues such as orange and red and pairs them with Tranquil Dawn for an offbeat graphic effect. While striped feature walls have been indicated by the colour experts, we recommend taking just a couple of shades, say zesty yellow and burnt orange, and introducing them slowly into your interior. This vibrant palette looks fantastic with dark woods and natural textiles, with brands like PORADA as a natural starting point. It’s important to remember that homes are beautiful because of the feelings and possibilities they evoke, so be sure to have fun with your décor. For more luxury inspiration or even just some friendly advice, why not pay us a visit online or in-store where you’ll find hundreds of stylish European brands all under one roof ? Chaplins Furniture Ltd www.chaplins.co.uk www.chaplins.co.uk

ADVANCED CARPENTRY & JOINERY LTD Skilled craftsmanship • Bespoke creations

DOORS & WINDOWS

Plus: Staircases | Kitchens | Hand Crafted Furniture

07957 370 421 or 0208 838 5015 | e-mail: office@db-carpentry-joinery.com | www.db-carpentry-joinery.com

Countrywide Pianos West of London

Over 100 Pianos. Largest choice of quality New & Used upright & grand Pianos for London and the Home Counties. All pianos delivered and set up anywhere in the UK. Easy Free Parking – Only 25 miles from London. Showroom open 7 days a week. Well worth a visit. Showroom: 194 Penn Road, High Wycombe, Bucks, HP15 7NU www.countrywidepianos.co.uk | Tel: 01494 813388

H OUSE & GARDEN

First Impressions

The front door can make or break how good your property looks from the outside. It takes just eight seconds to decide whether or not you will buy a house, according to the latest research. And at least four of them will be spent waiting at the front door. People look at a front door before they look at anything else - your front door reflects what you think about the house. A door can sell a property. A front door must be in keeping with your property - planked doors can work well on barn or warehouse conversions or newbuilds.

96 DECEMBER 2019

B

ut there is no escaping the universal charm of the Georgian front door - solid, well-constructed, but at the same time curiously domestic and welcoming. The classic Georgian combination of solid, panelled door with a glazed fanlight over the top, , is just magic. In fact, No10 Downing Street, Britain’s most famous front door, has changed in appearance only once in 300 years. It was an “unlucky” dark green for a brief spell at the beginning of the 19th century, when Herbert Asquith was prime minister. Number10 has been black ever since. It even bears a wonky “0” in the number 10 - a tribute to the original door, which had a badly fitted zero.

THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF FRONT DOORS There are three main types here. Firstly you can opt for a front door made from solid wood. These are heavy and built to last, but they do require some upkeep. You’ll need to sand them down and repaint them periodically to stop the wood from rotting. However they do give you the opportunity to change the colour of the door whenever you want a change. Secondly you can get a uPVC front door. These tend to be a lot cheaper and some people buy them at the same time as getting their windows done. They’re easy to clean and never need any upkeep other than the odd wash and dry to rinse off any dirt and dust. And finally you could opt for a composite front door. As the name may suggest, they are made from a variety of different materials. The best material is chosen for each part of the door, providing the best overall performance as a result. Door knobs, knockers and letterboxes should

be in keeping with one another and sympathetic to the size and style of the door. Simple brass ring knockers and “Doctor’s” door knockers, popular in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, are two simple styles that suit both panelled and plank doors. Octagonal or round door knobs and handles and plain letterboxes work well with this simple look. Lionhead knockers and knobs with ornate embellishment are typical of the Queen Anne period while reeded (ridged) door furniture was used in late Georgian and early Victorian times. Edwardian door furniture is plain, with simple reeding, while Victorian is slightly heavier. Traditional-style door furniture coated in brushed and polished chrome and nickel creates a more contemporary look and works well with flatter, lighter colours.

FOCUSING ON SECURITY Clearly security will be an important element of any front door you choose. Ideally you should opt for one that offers multipoint locks. This essentially means the door will be locked into place at more than one point by a series of strong bolts. Your front door should ideally always have a split spindle design. This means when you close the door from the outside, the only way of getting back in is to use a key. It also means a thief cannot get into your house by opening the door by the handle from the outside (unless you have locked it from the inside). Multipoint locks should always have bolts that move into place by an upward turn of the handle from inside or outside your home. You then use the key provided to keep them in place. In some cases compression bolts are also provided in the door, to further secure it into the frame. Clearly the more bolts you have the more secure it will be.