Life Magazines (Buckinghamshire editions) January 2020

Start your 2020 health and fitness journey here with the wellness holiday specialists.

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

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JANUARY ISSUE THE TEAM PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD

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© 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.

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

CONTENTS OUT & ABOUT

23

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

75

HOUSE & GARDEN

91

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

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out & about – We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month – I M AG E : t h e i v y, m a r l o w

OUT & ABOUT

26 JANUARY

The Bull at Gerrards Cross Wedding Fair With several large function rooms, an excellent location and a fabulous selection of Local Wedding Suppliers and Services The Bull is the perfect place to come if you’re in the midst of planning your Wedding. The Bull itself combines the character of a 17th century coaching inn with beautifully landscaped gardens, contemporary design and awardwinning cuisine. 11am - 3.30pm Free parking and entry. Bridal Fashion Show.

The Bull, Oxford Road, Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire SL9 7PA

[events]

OUT & ABOUT UNTIL 19 JANUARY

THE SNOWMAN AND THE SNOWDOG This year our magical festive programme of activities has been inspired by the iconic story of The Snowman™ and The Snowdog.

We’ll be following the wonderous adventures of The Snowman™ and The Snowdog, displaying over 40 original illustrations from the film.

River & Rowing Museum, Mill Meadows, Henley-on-Thames RG9 1BF

4 JANUARY

Make a Flipped Fairytale Book Box Roald Dahl’s book Revolting Rhymes is packed with traditional fairytales with some twists and unexpected surprises! You’ll find out more about these rhymes, then, using the book as inspiration, you’ll decorate a fairytale-looking book box out of craft materials – and create your own twist on the tale to go inside.

12.00pm, 1.30pm and 3.00pm Suitable for 5+ years.

The Roald Dahl Museum, 81-83 High Street, Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire HP16 0AL 24 JANUARY 2020

Image © Snowdog Enterprises Ltd 2012

12 JANUARY

11 JANUARY

Claydon - Behind the scenes Join a tour and explore previously unseen parts of the house as the private family apartments come into National Trust care. Join a tour and explore previously unseen parts of the house as the private family apartments come into National Trust care. Booking Essential. Phone: 03442491895.

Claydon, Middle Claydon, near Buckingham, Buckinghamshire MK18 2EY

Epiphany Carol Service ‘Star of Wonder’ The Choir of the City Church, directed by Adrian Boynton, led by Revd Wendy Carey. In the third and last of our annual carol services we celebrate the revelation of Christ to people throughout the world, symbolised in the story of the Three Wise Men. Some of the most beautiful carols and arrangements have been inspired by this special season. 6pm. Freewill offering.

Milton Keynes City Church, 300 Saxon Gate West, Central Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire MK9 2ES

OUT & ABOUT

[events]

OUT & ABOUT

18 january

Simply Swing: The Story of Swing Not just a band on a stage playing music, this is a journey through the history of swing music.

You will be taken on a nostalgic journey back in time, both musically and visually, from 1939 to modern day. This fantastic show includes the music and footage of Cab Calloway, Frank Sinatra, Peggy Lee, Bobby Darin, Benny Goodman, Glenn Miller, even a little Buble and many more, all performed brilliantly by a 10 piece show band including 3 great vocalists. So get your tickets now for this one and only performance in the area, and let us take you on a trip down memory lane Stantonbury Theatre, Stantonbury, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire MK14 6BN

24 & 25 january

UNTIL 5 JANUARY

Stowe - 12 Days of Christmas Pick up a map from the visitor welcome centre and head out on a winter walk through the frost-kissed 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 with displays of wreaths, kissing boughs and foliage designs reflecting different aspects of Christmas traditions. The twelfth and finale of all the displays will be at The Temple of Concord and Victory where the huge interior will be filled by a decorated feasting table, with lights, drama and the Twelfth Night king and queen. Along the way you’ll need to find ingredient clues for a Twelfth Night cake to note down on your map and take home a recipe card.

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

12 january

Missenden Abbey Wedding Fair The Missenden Abbey Wedding Fair is just what you need to begin organising, or putting together the finishing touches on your special day. You will be welcomed with a goody bag and Bucks Fizz to enjoy as you have a look around the house and grounds and browse through a variety of local suppliers.

Missenden Abbey, London Road, Buckinghamshire HP16 0BD

UNTIL 5 JANUARY

Christmas Afternoon Tea at Waddesdon manor Treat yourself to a sumptuous Christmas afternoon tea, with a selection of savoury treats and sweet fancies and a glass of prosecco. Served in the historic Manor Restaurant. Created inhouse by Craig, our talented head pâtissier, afternoon tea is the perfect way to celebrate your visit to Waddesdon.

Waddesdon Manor, Waddeson, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire HP18 0JH 26 JANUARY 2020

Theatre & Film Studies Workshop: Mixing Live Sound This class offers a beginners guide to running a live concert, from assembling and checking a PA system, to practical experience mixing live sound for a band. For more details email dario@qpc. org or visit Unbound’s Facebook page. This workshop is presented

by Unbound Theatre, Queens Park’s in-house theatre company.

Unbound produces a wide range of shows every year spanning professional-quality touring and site-specific pieces to community productions at the Limelight Theatre, as well as a variety of workshops in the fields of drama, creative writing and theatre studies. Time: 7pm - 9.30pm Price: £30/£25 members for full course. Places must be booked in advance; classes are suitable for adults and students aged 16+.

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

COVER STORY

Health And Fitness Travel Highlight the Best Wellness Holidays to Book in 2020

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New Year marks a new beginning, so it’s natural to want to reflect and make resolutions to improve different aspects of your life. Give yourself the best shot at success this year on a transformative health and fitness holiday. Whatever your goals in 2020, Health and Fitness Travel, the wellness holiday specialists can find a destination to satisfy your wellness needs; be it a holistic detox, sleep enhancement, emotional healing or fitness, nutrition, active or sports holiday.

With carefully crafted programmes and the support of experts in some of the world’s most beautiful locations, choose a wellness holiday to transform your life this year.

Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda, Italy Journeying to Northern Italy and the rugged hills of Monte Pizzocolo, Lefay Lago di Garda models both sustainability and absolute luxury. Experience Mediterranean inspired, locally sourced dishes at La Grande Limonaia restaurant and indulgent relaxation in the heated infinity pool, both to the backdrop of Italy’s most famous and serenely beautiful Lake. Comprehensive detox programmes personalised by the Spa Doctor, full-body energy massages and the tranquil saltwater grotto are just snippets off what the nurturing spa pathway has to offer.

Inspired by ancient Chinese medicine and intertwined with western technology, this awardwinning spa resort stays true to its philosophy of complete wellness and provides a calm aura, essential for rejuvenating mind and body. For active approaches to health, Health and Fitness Travel’s 28 JANUARY 2020

exclusive Fusion Fitness programme allows a personalised exercise programme including expert led high intensity Fitball and flexibility oriented Hatha Yoga, whilst the 24-hour state-of-the-art gym can cater to all exercise modalities. Perfect care and expertise provided by Lefay ensure wellness and calm to all.

Vilalara Longevity Thalassa & Medical Spa – Algarve, Portugal Situated in an exclusive spot on Portugal’s southern coast, Longevity Vilalara Thalassa Resort & Medical Spa rests alongside its own private golden sand beach in Algarve. All guests are greeted by beautiful palm trees, peaceful beaches and the resort’s soothing sandy façade creating a warm and calming ambience. This cutting-edge medical spa focuses on prevention rather than cure with a strong concentration on deep detoxification and revitalisation, by using the healing qualities of Thalassaotherapy and other medical and nonmedical therapies.

Featuring a broad selection of health & wellness programmes from mindfulness, anti-ageing and Fusion Fitness to Holistic Rebalance, this spa is a wellness lover’s heaven. With so much to do here,

“Longevity Vilalara Thalassa Resort & Medical Spa rests alongside its own private golden sand beach in Algarve”

“There are plenty of ways to relax and boost well-being at Palacio Estoril”

including six outdoor pools, four tennis courts and many group fitness classes, the hours simply melt away. But time taken to appreciate the surroundings is a must, as the grounds are stunning, boasting with a small lake, tropical gardens and day beds for afternoon naps. Ideal for some much-needed downtime.

Palacio Estoril Hotel, Golf and Spa, Portugal 1930’s elegance and history are reflected throughout Palacio Estoril, the stately 5* hotel and spa famed for its history and connection to royalty. Grand marble columns and stairs line the entryway, entrancing all that arrive, whilst the outstanding views over the Bay of Cascais and peaceful hotel gardens exude a sense of calm. Home to the award-winning Banyan Tree Spa, Palacio Estoril is renowned for its expert approach to wellness, featuring outstanding weight-loss, anti-ageing and spa programmes.

Each wellness programme integrates holistic and traditional healing practices with modern medicine.

However, the essence of the Spa experience lies in the traditional Banyan Tree Spa training of each therapist, providing a sanctuary for the senses, offering Asian treatments, including chakra massages and Shirodara that date back centuries.

Home to an 18-hole professional Golf course, a bar frequented by spies during World War II and the sophisticated Grill Four Seasons Restaurant, there are plenty of ways to relax and boost well-being at Palacio Estoril.

BodyHoliday, St Lucia White sands, warm turquoise waters and a laid-back atmosphere induce a state of relaxation as the

optional helicopter transfer touches down in St Lucia. Volcanic mountains and unspoilt rainforests set the scene and BodyHoliday provides a personal service of spa treatments, therapies and activities, promising that if you give them your body for a week, they will give you back your mind. Each month is specifically themed, from dance dedicated Jive June to Octoba Yoga. But jam-packed days of activity from Tai-Chi over the water, ocean exploring scuba-diving and 7am yoga ensure there is always a path to restored well-being. Each stay also includes a daily spa treatment at the Wellness Centre. Elemis facials to lime and ginger scrubs and aloe yoghurt wraps, alongside access to the Ayurvedic doctor and in-house Osteopath. Farmfresh vegan dishes, sunset cocktails and waterfall trips. BodyHoliday gives every guest the chance to truly switch off and focus on what their body and mind really needs.

Book a free no obligation wellness holiday consultation and smoothie at Health and Fitness Travel’s shop in Beaconsfield, 15 London End. Call 0203 397 8891 to book now Quote ‘HFT Beaconsfield’ to receive £100 off your first holiday booking with us* *T&Cs apply For further information visit www.healthandfitnesstravel.com to discover and book the world’s best wellness holidays

READER OFFER: SAVE

£100

JANUARY 2020 29

OUT & ABOUT

Anyone for coffee on their walls?

L

ocal artist, painter and sculptor Stephen Charlton creates unique, one-off illustrations using coffee as his chosen medium. These wonderful creations come from Stephen’s imagination and delight those who not only love animals but coffee too!

Perfect as gifts for those who are coffee addicts or those who just enjoy the wit of these lovely animal characters.

Stephen seems to have no bounds when it comes to the variety of animal characters he creates, including a range of dinosaurs that have love at their heart that he calls Lovasaurus.

‘Coffee is a medium that does behave like watercolour but has to be applied with great care and skill as it will ‘lift’ the layer underneath, so you have to plan ahead before painting.’

Visit his website and you will explore the world of coffee characters and the delight Stephen embeds in every single artwork.

Because Stephen does not create prints of his work, you get the perfect original and are able to ‘smell the coffee’ even through the sealed lacquer, which in itself, is so unique as smelling a painting is rather unusual!

“Coffee is a medium that does behave like watercolour but has to be applied with great care and skill” Stephen’s now expanding his ideas by approaching coffee shops and painting with their individual coffee blend to hang on their own walls, a distinctive way to make art that everyone can enjoy. Beyond animals, Stephen has developed CoffeeHeads, a unique use of the coffee cup spill, turned into quirky faces with drippy hair and a heart for a nose.

This amazing art has everyone talking and rushing to Stephen’s website to explore the wonders of coffee – join them and enjoy! www.lovecoffeeart.com 07940 916759 30 JANUARY 2020

Discover and book the world’s best wellness holidays with Health and Fitness Travel, the wellness holiday specialists Find the best fitness, detox and wellness retreats worldwide with our expert team in Beaconsfield helping you find your perfect healthy getaway. We go the extra mile, travelling the world, researching and reviewing extensively to provide only the best recommendations. We build your itinerary around your personal goals; whether to get fit, lose weight, detox, learn something new, improve a skill or simply relax.

Book a free no obligation wellness holiday consultation and smoothie at our office in Beaconsfield, 15 London End. Call 0203 397 8891 to book now.

Quote ‘HFT Beaconsfield’ to receive £100 off your first holiday booking with us*

W W W. H E A LT H A N D F I T N E S S T R A V E L . C O M

*T&Cs apply

OUT & ABOUT

The Ivy Marlow Garden celebrates Valentine’s Day with Limited-Edition Dessert

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n honour of Valentine’s Day, The Ivy Marlow Garden is delighted to be adding a delicious limited-edition dessert to its already extensive menu.

Created by The Ivy Marlow Garden talented food team, the ‘Roses are Red, Berries are Too’ dessert for two (£16.95) will feature a delicious combination of white chocolate cheese cake, raspberries, strawberries and red rose petals – ideal for celebrating with loved ones or friends this Valentine’s Day. Richard Martinez, General Manager at The Ivy Marlow Garden says: “We are delighted to be adding this tantalising new addition to our menu this Valentine’s Day, and look forward to welcoming guest into the restaurant.”

The ‘Roses are Red, Berries are Too’ will be available exclusively from Thursday, 13 February to Sunday, 16 February. To book, please visit www.theivymarlowgarden.com or call 01628 902777.

32 JANUARY 2020

OUT & ABOUT

Dame Evelyn Glennie, Danny Driver, The Marian Consort and a night of cabaret to look forward to at the

CHILTERN ARTS FESTIVAL 2020

Chiltern Arts Festival Highlights 28th February –7th March 2020 Septura Brass Septet: One Equal Music Friday 28th February Princes Risborough Come and Sing Tippett’s Five Spirituals Saturday 29th February Wallingford The Marian Consort: Singing in Secret Saturday 29th February Wallingford Septura (Photo: Matthew Lloyd)

The Phoenix Piano Trio Monday 2nd March Marlow The Piccadilly Revellers: Cabaret, Concert and Dinner Tuesday 3rd March Berkhamsted Dame Evelyn Glennie and Trio HLK Wednesday 4th March Henley-on-Thames Matthew Wadsworth and Dame Evelyn Glennie: Candlelit Lute Thursday 5th March Great Missenden

W

ith Christmas done and dusted for another year, the music world is turning its mind to celebrating 250 years since Beethoven’s birth.

Chiltern Arts joins the festivities with a programme celebrating overcoming adversity in the arts, with its usual array of venues across the Chilterns, including Henley-on-Thames, Marlow, Berkhamsted, Amersham, Great Missenden, Wallingford and Princes Risborough.

‘It’s a busy year for Chiltern Arts,” says Creative Director, Naomi Taylor, “I’m particularly excited to have a theme linking all events for the first time this year. And there are lots of opportunities to get involved, as well as simply sitting back and enjoying Dame Evelyn Glennie and Trio HLK

Danny Driver (pianist): Beethoven and the Loss of Vital Senses Friday 6th March Hambleden City of London Sinfonia: Beethoven and Mozart Saturday 7th March Old Amersham

34 JANUARY 2020

Matthew Wadsworth

“It’s a busy year for Chiltern Arts, I’m particularly excited to have a theme linking all events for the first time this year” – there’s the Come and Sing day and a poetry competition, and we also have a very hands-on Youth Music and Art Day… come and join us for what we think will be a brilliant week!”

Chiltern Arts offers music for all tastes, from brass chamber music to piano trios to cabaret to Renaissance choral music and everything in between. One of the highlights of the 2020 programme is undoubtedly a mini-residency from eminent solo percussionist Dame Evelyn Glennie.

She is performing with jazz Trio HLK in Henleyon-Thames on 4th March; and with Matthew Wadsworth (lute) in a world premiere performance at the Candlelit Lute concert in Great Missenden on 5th March – definitely not one to miss.

Chiltern Arts’ popular Concert and Dinner event returns to The Gatsby in Berkhamsted, this year with music from members of the Piccadilly Dance Orchestra, featuring cabaret and a seven-piece band. Think ‘20s and 30s high society entertainment – grab a glass of fizz and enjoy turning back the clock in the perfect setting!

More information online at chilternarts.com

OUT & ABOUT

New Year’s Resolution…

Why not add a new Will to the list?

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aking a Will is one of the most important things you can do for your loved ones, and yet 52% of the country do not have one. Why is this?

I expect it is more than likely on your to-do list, but there are several reasons people put off making their Will; a big reason is not wanting to think about your death. Another could be money - it costs money to make a Will. Maybe you are unsure who you want to benefit, or cannot decide who to have as Executors and end up putting the whole thing on hold. Or time could be an issue; perhaps you are too busy or keep putting it off as, ‘no-one’s going to die tomorrow, right?’. And yet, of all the things in life, surely planning for our loved ones after our death is the most important thing we can do.

Everyone should have a Will. It is the only way to ensure that your loved ones will benefit from your Estate on your death. If you do not have a Will then everything is shared out in a standard way defined by law (known as the rules of intestacy). These strict rules, which decide how your assets are passed, may be completely at odds with your wishes.

Unfortunately, the law has not kept pace with the modern world. This can result in some very unfair outcomes. For example, nowadays a lot of people choose not to marry and yet unmarried partners are not recognised. This is the case even if you have been living happily together for 30 plus years. The same applies to stepchildren - the only way they will

36 JANUARY 2020

be able to inherit from you is if you make a Will providing for them.

A Will is especially important if you have children as you can decide who looks after them in the event of your death, known as the Guardianship clause.

My advice is not to leave things to chance choose for yourself who benefits.

At K J Smith Solicitors, our professional and diligent Estate Planning & Wealth Management team would be delighted to assist you in conquering that New Year’s resolution and getting your allimportant Will prepared.

Author: Elizabeth Head is an Associate Solicitor in our Estate Planning & Wealth Management Department. Liz is a full STEP member and offers advice on all aspects of Private Client law such as drafting Wills; Tax Planning and Asset Protection; preparing Deeds of Variation; creating and registering Lasting Powers of Attorney and existing Enduring Powers of Attorney and the creation and administration of Trusts. She also deals with Deputyship applications and other Court of Protection work and administers both taxable and non-taxable Estates (including cross-border elements). Liz advises a wide variety of clients, including directors, partners, entrepreneurs and landowners. She also enjoys assisting vulnerable and older adults and is happy to arrange home visits if mobility is an issue.

THE DETAILS K J Smith Solicitors are specialists in family law, with offices in Reading (Central), Reading (Woodley), Abingdon, Ascot, Basingstoke, Beaconsfield, Guildford, Henley and Oxford.

We are recognised by the Legal 500 as a Leading Firm.

Why not contact us to arrange a free initial consultation?

Call 0118 418 1000 or email wtp@kjsmith.co.uk (Wills, Trusts & Probate).

OUT & ABOUT

Is it possible to have an amicable divorce?

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es you can, according to family lawyer, Sue Andrews from B P Collins in Gerrards Cross, who believes that couples who are mindful of one another’s position are more likely to reach a cordial resolution. In an exclusive article for GX Life, Sue offers more tips on how to divorce with the minimum of animosity, cost and delay.

needed will depend upon the individual, and also the circumstances of the breakdown. However, we rarely meet a client who, six months down the line does not feel better, more positive and less entrenched than they did in the darker days of early separation. So, understanding your former spouse’s feelings and taking a step back is likely to be beneficial.

Respect and communication Separating couples often get immersed and blinkered in considering matters only from their own perspective. But if you reflect upon how you were once in a loving partnership, which was trusting and respectful, you might be more inclined to consider each other’s feelings and needs.

Communication is especially important if there are children involved, because parents will have to have an ongoing relationship for the rest of their lives.

Choose your lawyer carefully Look for an experienced family lawyer with whom you have rapport and empathy with and one who you do not feel intimidated by. Also be wary of a lawyer who promises you the earth or who always agrees with what you say. It’s important to get advice early on since if you know what to expect, some of the uncertainty should be removed and discussions on a more informed basis are usually more constructive and productive. But do not take formal steps until you are ready to do so, unless circumstances dictate a different timescale. Lawyers give advice, but remember it is your divorce and it is you who gives the instructions. While you may need firm guidance, you need to remain true to your own values and principles.

Counselling Having counselling in a neutral environment, where each person can air how they feel and why they feel that way, without feeling judged or wary about how the other might react, can be very helpful, both to the formal divorce process and relations going forward. It should also help to clarify if divorce is really what each person wants and be in the right frame of mind for it.

Understanding Try to put yourself in the shoes of your spouse. It is very rare that separating parties are in the same emotional place at the beginning. One person may have been thinking about ending the marriage for some time, and that news may come as a complete shock to the other. If the marriage breaks down because one person has had an affair, the other spouse is likely to feel incredibly upset and betrayed.

These feelings will delay the resolution of matters unless there is time given to address them.

This can often be because that person may feel scared about their uncertain future, rather than wishing to be difficult. How much time is 38 JANUARY 2020

Establishing the facts One of the first tasks when aiming to resolve matters is “fact finding.” This is to ascertain the resources and assets of the relationship and to understand all of the issues that might impact upon the resolution of matters. A lawyer will provide guidance and advice about an appropriate outcome based on those facts, taking into account relevant legislation and judicial precedents and guidance.

Be honest Do not play games as this will delay resolution and result in paying a significant amount in legal fees.

Essentially, a good divorce is one where both parties are able to talk frankly and openly with each other to achieve a settlement.

If you’d like to speak to B P Collins about your divorce, please contact Sue Andrews at sue. andrews@bpcollins.co.uk 01753 279046.

“Look for an experienced family lawyer with whom you have rapport and empathy with and one who you do not feel intimidated by”

OUT & ABOUT

Chef Laurie Gear

January recipe & kitchen news This month’s recipe of braised oxtail is perfect for the crisp cold evenings of January and pays homage to the late chef Gary Rhodes, I was fortunate enough to enjoy Gary’s oxtail signature dish during his time as head chef of the Greenhouse Restaurant in London.

RECIPE: Slow Braised Winter Oxtail Ingredients Serves 4 - 6 • 6 good sized oxtail discs • 100 g beef dripping • 225 chopped carrots • 225 chopped onion • 225 chopped celery • 225 chopped leek • 450 chopped tomato • 1 sprig fresh thyme • 1 bay leaf • 1 crushed clove garlic • 600ml red wine • 2.25 litres veal or beef stock For the garnish • 1 large finely diced carrot • 1 onion finely diced • 2 sticks celery finely diced • 1 leek finely diced • 6 tomatoes skinned seeded and diced • 2 tbs chopped parsley

Method 1. Pre heat oven to 200c 2. Season the oxtail and brown in a heavy pan with the dripping till brown on all sides remove and set aside.

3. In the same pan fry the chopped vegetables adding the thyme, garlic and tomatoes at the end 4. Return the oxtail to the vegetables then add the red wine 5. Reduce the liquid till nearly dry 6. Pour in the stock 7. Bring the pan to a simmer 8. Fit a lid and cook for 2 hours until tender 9. Remove the oxtail and push the sauce through a sieve 10. Reduce the remaining sauce till thick and glossy whilst doing so cook the garnish in the sauce adding the tomato parsley and oxtail at the end to warm through

40 JANUARY 2020

New Year Lunch Tasting Offer Sit back, relax and sample our New Year Lunch Tasting Menu, and we will be delighted to offer you a complimentary glass of Pear Bellini with a splash of Poire William upon arrival.

Experience the culinary theatre of the open kitchen and view Laurie, Ben and the team in action at the Pass.

This fabulous Lunch Tasting Offer is available from Tuesday to Friday until the end of January 2020 for just £40.00 per person optional wine flight £26.00 (sixth course at an additional £6.00) **please mention ‘Lunch Offer’ when making your reservation** (‘offer’ available for up to six guests) The Artichoke Restaurant 9 Market Square Old Amersham Tel: 01494 726611 www.artichokerestaurant.co.uk

• Contemporary and classic Italian food from our Italian Chef; • Homemade flat breads • Fresh made pasta & risottos • Small Ciccheti dishes for sharing

HAPPY NEW YEAR AND A NEW LOOK FOR 2020!

• Antipasti • Grilled meats and fish • With specials of the day • Wines from Italy and around the world • Lounge area to relax • Casual dining area • Mood and romantic dining room • Selection of cocktails & champagnes from the bar

To make a reservation call 01494 86 36 96 or see our website www.originswinebar.co.uk, or call in at 57 High Street, Great Missenden, Bucks HP16 0AL

Private dining facilities also available for up to 50 people, depending on format.

OUT & ABOUT

M

WHY MAKE A WILL?

aking a will is one of the most important things that you can do to ensure that those you leave behind are looked after following your death.

However, it is something that many of us never quite get around to doing. There are many reasons why this is overlooked – busy work and personal lives, coping with illness or caring responsibilities, believing that you don’t own enough assets to need a will, or putting off addressing difficult questions and family tensions.

Just as there are many reasons why people do not make a will, there are many reasons why you should, including: Ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes Relying on the general intestacy rules when dying without making a will can produce surprising and potentially unwanted results. Unmarried partners will not inherit and for estates worth over £250,000, a spouse or civil partner will share the estate with the children.

Provide for divorce or (re)marriage If you are going through a divorce but this is not yet finalised, your future ‘ex’ could still inherit your estate under an existing will or the intestacy rules.

Marriage also revokes a will, so you will need to make a new will if you get married.

Provide for and protect your children Appointing guardians to look after your children if both parents die while the children are under

44 JANUARY 2020

the age of 18 ensures that they will be cared for by trusted friends or family members, avoiding argument and reducing distress at this difficult time.

You can also ensure that your children’s inheritance is held for them until they are mature enough to manage it themselves.

If you have children from different relationships, you can organise your affairs to provide for the children from your previous relationship, as well as the children with your current partner.

Be tax efficient Ensure that your will is as tax efficient as possible and makes full use of the available tax reliefs. These can be lost if your will is not drafted correctly.

Preserve your assets Many clients are concerned about going into care and paying care fees and a will can help to protect your home and assets.

Don’t forget to plan for a time when you may not be able to look after your own affairs due to physical or mental incapacity by making Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs). It is also important to review your will from time to time, once you have made it.

Make 2020 the year in which you make your will and LPAs! – Sheilagh Magee, Partner, BDB Pitmans If you would like a quote for preparing a will and LPAs, please do not hesitate to contact me or a member of the team on (0)34 5222 9222.

We would be happy to talk to you. www.bdbpitmans.com

“Ensure that your will is as tax efficient as possible and makes full use of the available tax reliefs”

OUT & ABOUT

Civil Partnerships: equal and equivalent Marriage and civil partnerships now available to all

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arriage not only represents an emotional commitment between two people, but it also has a significant beneficial effect on a couple’s legal standing, financial affairs and home rights.

There has been a longstanding issue relating to how same sex couples can access the same protections and advantages that married couples have. Under the Civil Partnership Act 2004, same sex couples were able to form civil partnerships, and same sex couples in civil partnerships were afforded the same legal treatment as heterosexual married couples.

There remained inequality however, with same sex couples still being unable to get married.

The government recognised the frustrations that same sex couples faced and in 2013, the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013 introduced same sex marriage in the UK.

“Same sex civil partners can convert their civil partnership to a marriage without dissolving the civil partnership”

Calls to campaign Whilst the 2013 Act introduced same sex marriage, this led to a situation where same sex couples were able to decide whether to form a civil partnership or marry, whilst opposite sex couples were only able to marry.

This raised calls amongst heterosexual couples who felt that the fact they were unable to form a civil partnership was discriminatory. One such couple, Rebecca Steinfeld and Charles Keidan, argued that for those who fundamentally disagree with the patriarchal origins of marriage, there is no alternative way for the state to recognise their relationship.

Steinfeld and Keidan brought a legal case arguing this point, which reached the Supreme Court last year. In June 2018 the Supreme Court upheld their claim, ruling that to deny heterosexual couples the right to enter into civil partnerships breached the European Convention of Human Rights.

Following this, on 2 October 2018, the then Prime Minister Theresa May announced that civil partnerships would be extended to heterosexual couples. The Civil Partnerships, Marriages and Deaths (Registration) Act 2019 cemented this right in UK law, meaning that opposite sex civil partnerships will be able to be registered from 31 December 2019.

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The end of inequality?

Emma McMorrow

Rachel Levine

The details Royds Withy King is a City law firm with a local presence. Contact specialist Emma McMorrow in our Family team for advice on civil partnerships and any related legal queries.

Tel: 020 7129 7915 or email:family. enquiries@roydswithyking.com.

The situation from 1 January 2020 will be that both same sex and opposite sex couples will be able to form either civil partnerships or get married.

At first glance this seems like the end of inequality in relation to the rights couples have to register their relationship officially with the state.

One inequality remains. Currently, same sex civil partners can convert their civil partnership to a marriage without dissolving the civil partnership.

This ability to convert excludes the complications that having to dissolve the civil partnership can bring. However, now that opposite sex couples can form both civil partnerships and get married, this ability to convert a civil partnership to marriage has not been transferred.

The government is aware of this inequality, and has expressed a wish to rectify the problem. The practical impact of this inequality is likely to be small: it is not likely that heterosexual couples who enter into civil partnerships in the coming months are going to want to immediately convert their partnerships into marriages.

Once this peculiarity is rectified by the government, the rights to form civil partnership and marry of opposite sex couples and same sex couples, from 31 December 2019, will be equal and equivalent.

OUT & ABOUT

SOUTHBANK CENTRE

MELTDOWN announces Grace Jones as curator for 2020 S

outhbank Centre has announced that the next curator and headliner of its awardwinning Meltdown festival, the longestrunning artist-curated festival in the world, will be the international icon of music, fashion, art and film, and inimitable singer, songwriter, producer and performer, Grace Jones.

From 12-21 June 2020, Jones will take over the UK’s largest arts centre with her defiantly unique creative vision and a ten day playbook of her creation. At her invitation, global names and new talent, artists who inspire and have been inspired by her, and special one-off collaborations will take to the world-class stages of Royal Festival Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall and Purcell Room, and the remainder of Southbank Centre’s 17-acre cultural quarter on the banks of the River Thames.

Grace Jones is one of the most recognised figures of contemporary culture. After taking the world by storm as one of the first black supermodels, Jones signed to Island Records in 1977 and with her first few singles - and mouldbreaking fashion - became a star of New York City’s Studio 54-centered disco scene. The 1980s saw her move to a new-wave hybrid of reggae, funk, pop and rock, as she worked with superstar producers such as Trevor Horn and Nile Rodgers and released a string of internationally acclaimed and enduring albums including Slave to the Rhythm (1985). The decade also saw her big-screen takeover with leading roles in hit movies such as Conan the Destroyer (1984), A View to a Kill (1985), and Vamp (1986).

Her bold, androgynous image defined the visual

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landscape of the 1970s and 1980s making her a muse to the most exciting artists and designers of the era from Issey Miyake and Thierry Mugler to Andy Warhol. Through her enduring influence on countless artists from Björk to Lady Gaga, and with her status quo-defying attitude, her legacy is one of fierce individuality and fearless self-expression. She continues to perform globally, captivating audiences with her musicianship, extravagant outfits and wild performances.

Jones joins a roll-call of world-changing artists to head up the festival, including David Bowie, Yoko Ono, Patti Smith, Nick Cave, Lee Scratch Perry, M.I.A, and Robert Smith, and takes the baton from her former collaborator Nile Rodgers, who delivered the most critically acclaimed Meltdown to date in 2019.

She returns to Meltdown having previously performed in one of the most legendary examples of the festival’s reputation for staging once-in-alifetime musical experiences: in 2007 she completed an all-star line-up of Nick Cave, Shane MacGowan, Pete Doherty and Jarvis Cocker to sing Disney songs under Cocker’s curation. She returned the following year for her own two-hour Royal Festival Hall set at Massive Attack’s Meltdown.

Grace Jones said: “I am honoured to be curating next year’s Meltdown festival. Year after year, the festival continues to spread its colourful wings, allowing its curators to bring together an array of diverse talent not seen anywhere else. It’s about time I was asked to curate Meltdown darling, don’t you think?!”

THE DETAILS Grace Jones’s Meltdown: 12-21 June 2020 Southbank Centre, London SE1 For more information go to www. southbankcentre.co.uk/meltdown.

Join the conversation: #meltdownfest @meltdownfest @southbankcentre www.southbankcentre.co.uk/ meltdown

OUT & ABOUT

B away on holiday This month we spoke to Jeremy Scott, owner of the expanding, local independent, travel agency brand “B away”

So what made you start the B away brand?

I wanted to create a travel brand that portrayed the large variety of services that we offer to various clientele. Around 10 years ago I purchased a business in Ruislip and they had registered the name “B away” and I thought it worked well with the many types of travel we sell. For example B away on Holiday, B away Cruising, B away in Luxury, B away on Business, B away playing Golf, B away with the Kids etc.

What attracted you to opening a new branch in Chorleywood?

Following the sad demise of Thomas Cook which affected Rickmansworth, we realised that they had left behind a great team of dedicated, passionate and experienced staff that would complement the way we work. The location next to the Co-Op in Chorleywood gave us a great opportunity to allow the ex Thomas Cook team of Nisha, Carly, Jessica, Eva and Alison to continue doing what they love, so it was an easy decision to make.

What is your long term vision for B away on Holiday?

We aim to keep growing a local network of branches offering all travel related services. We pride ourselves on knowledge, service and pricing that we believe many of our competitors lack. In the last 3 years we have added 4 new branches so we must be getting something right.

As an avid traveller what do you think is important when booking a holiday?

There is nothing worse than arriving at a hotel 50 JANUARY 2020

that doesn’t meet your expectations. You have to be confident that your travel choices, whether it’s a hotel, villa, apartment or cruise ship, are in line with what you expect. While the internet provides a great research tool, people tend to trust reviews of people they have never met and how do you know their expectations?

We look to understand our clients lifestyle and match them to the correct travel experience and give them access to rates that they are not always able to buy themselves.

What makes B away stand out from other travel companies?

We are confident that travellers still value service.

Our business is differentiated by offering a highly personal and expert service coupled with access to a wide range of prices and benefits not readily available. We are also fully bonded by ABTA, ATOL & IATA licences that offers that added protection.

With certain holidays we can monitor prices and should they change we are able to reflect the revised rate in your final cost. In some cases we have been able to save clients hundreds of pounds.

As your local travel agent with highly experienced staff, why not pop in or call us and discuss your travel requirements. After all, you have nothing to lose other than the cost of a phone call (free if you have inclusive minutes). www.baway.co.uk

“We aim to keep growing a local network of branches offering all travel related services. We pride ourselves on knowledge, service and pricing that we believe many of our competitors lack”

OUT & ABOUT

Romance at The Langley

Retreat to the countryside for the ultimate romance escape at The Langley, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Buckinghamshire.

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he former country estate of the third Duke of Marlborough, The Langley combines historic legacy and contemporary style. Sensitively restored, the Palladian-style mansion, adjoining Grade II-listed stables and Brew House offer sumptuous guestrooms and suites, alongside an unequalled spa, exceptional dining and distinguished gardens and parkland, designed by Capability Brown.

Celebrate in style with a romantic weekend or surprise your loved one with the ultimate gift.

Choose from our selection of comfortable rooms and stunning suites for a two night stay. Arrive to a chilled bottle of champagne in your room and romantic turndown and enjoy a full English breakfast served in the restaurant every morning or in the comfort of your room. On Friday evening, savour a delicious five course menu in Cedar, complete with a glass of champagne on arrival.

During your stay, you and your partner can relax in the luxurious surroundings of The Langley Spa and choose from a selection of 1 hour and 30 minute treatments offered in our double treatment room. Enjoy the spa’s extensive thermal facilities, including a 16 meter indoor pool and Hammam, for the duration of your stay.

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Weddings at The Langley Celebrate your special day at The Langley. Steeped in history, the historic Main House offers a luxurious and elegant backdrop for weddings and celebrations. Exclusive hotel hire for weddings and events is available by special request.

Nothing says romance like borrowing the hotel’s Aigle Wellington boots for a stroll around Langley Park and the grounds while taking in the sweeping countryside views. Alternatively, cosy up by the fire in the Churchill Bar with our selection of champagne, rare spirits and cigars.

Whether looking for a countywide break, relaxation in the spa or delectable dining in Cedar, The Langley’s setting offers the ultimate break this Valentine’s Day. Valentine’s Day at The Langley includes two nights’ accommodation, daily English breakfast for two guests, two 1 hour and 30 minute treatments in the double treatment room, and five course tasting menu in Cedar. Double rooms from £1,350 for two nights. Offer available on February 14 and 15 only. Terms & conditions apply. Book on www.thelangley.com or call +44 20 7278 7878.

Bridal photos: David Bostock.

Join us on February 29th, 2020 for a wedding showcase and explore all the spaces dressed for the occasion and speak to our expert team. To find out more and to register your interest, please contact events@thelangley.com.

The Langley Spa Ideal for those seeking the ultimate experience in a private and personal space, the sumptuous VIP Suite in The Langley Spa is equipped with a private relaxation space and a wealth of thermal experiences from the Vitality Pool and Juniper Sauna to an Amethyst Crystal Steam Room. The experience includes a welcome drink on arrival, alongside refreshments, fruit, magazines and a personalised service, on hand throughout the spa journey.

The suite can be booked for individuals, couples, or groups of up to ten guests. Exclusive use of the double treatment room and private Hammam can also be arranged, on request.

JANUARY 2020 53

OUT & ABOUT

‘King Edward VII’

development by Metis Homes

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he newly completed homes at ‘King Edward VII’ development in West Sussex offers the very best in ‘Estate Living’ for a fraction of the cost.

Award winning developer Metis Homes has built a boutique collection of nineteen homes nestled within the exclusive 165 acre King Edward VII Estate just outside of Midhurst, West Sussex, with prices starting from £545,000 and an annual management fee of less than £400 per bedroom.

Previously the site of a tuberculosis sanatorium which was founded by King Edward VII at the beginning of the 20th Century, the properties combine contemporary luxury with period charm within a secluded pocket of mature woodland.

Named after classic British names with a royal theme, the remaining homes for sale comprise of two to four bedrooms within Edmund Villas, Albert Row, Buckingham House, Windsor House and Victoria Mews.

The properties have been thoughtfully designed to harken to the Estate’s past, whilst exuding craftsmanship and period charm, combined with contemporary interiors by Alexander James.

Each home benefits from unusually large master bedrooms, French windows and landscaped garden, whilst most also boast a studio above the double garage offering flexibility of use as a home office, guest suite or fitness room.

At the centre of the Estate is the architecturally striking Arts & Crafts Grade II listed former hospital which has been lovingly restored, along with its iconic gardens which were once designed

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by the influential garden designer, Gertrude Jekyll.

Onsite facilities available to residents will include a gym, swimming pool, reading room, dining hall and concierge service, whilst outside there will be landscaped gardens, tennis court, electric car charging points amd private woodland walks.

Meanwhile, with excellent transport links to and from London, Heathrow/Gatwick, the south coast, west and east, as well as excellent local schools and a wide range of lifestyle-enhancing activities nearby – to include Cowdray Park Polo Club, Goodwood, golf courses, watersports, shooting and the South Downs National Park – the Estate allows for an attractive work/life balance right on the doorstep.

Adam O’Brien, Managing Director at Metis Homes commented: “The King Edward VII Estate offers exceptional value for the various onsite luxury amenities, high quality craftsmenship and miles of beautiful, undulating West Sussex countryside available to residents. The entry level prices and management fees are much lower than you would usually find in a set up like this and so the homes have been hugely popular with a variety of buyers as a result, most of whom have already moved in.”

To arrange a viewing of the showroom, visit www.metishomes.co.uk or call 01962 383038.

Help to buy is available at Victoria Mews.

“The properties have been thoughtfully designed to harken to the Estate’s past”

OUT & ABOUT

It’s an exciting New Year at The Grove, Haddenham Bucks

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aybe it’s the feeling of a welcoming community coming together to celebrate, or being surrounded by some of the most beautiful countryside in the country while snuggling up in your cosy home, but Christmas and New Year in the country always seems more inviting.

It’s the time of year when we appreciate those around us, and also when we make personal commitments to our future selves. New Year’s resolutions often involve learning a new skill, getting yourself organised, or promising that you will definitely, possibly, maybe go to the gym at least once a month. But this year you can make a bigger promise: to spend more time with your family and friends, making the most of the great outdoors with long walks through stunning scenery and fresh air – all from the doorstep of your new home.

There’s never been a better time to consider the prospect of a beautiful, award-winning Dandara New Home. Set within a beautifully historic Buckinghamshire village, with its archetypal Gothic Church, blend of ancient houses and pretty lanes, there is no shortage of dog friendly pubs, independent shops and classy restaurants.

With more than 50% of homes sold at The Grove, the popularity of the development is now well established. The development sits perfectly

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amidst an idyllic pastoral setting, yet maintains excellent rail and road connections to the rest of the country. Such a prime location is rare, taking advantage of the best of both worlds – city-dwellers and country-lovers will all find their perfect home here.

All homes at The Grove are designed to maximise quality family time, featuring large, wellplanned kitchens guaranteed to get you all together, from homework to films and food, and make the best of the New Year and advent of a new decade too!

Whether you’re a first time buyer, growing family or downsizer seeking a ‘lock and leave’ base, or possibly seeking easier living with a single storey lifestyle in one of our beautiful bungalows, Dandara has designed a varied range of homes to encourage community neighbourly living.

Don’t miss your chance to reserve your new home for a fresh start at The Grove in January, keeping at least one of those many resolutions!

The Grove Haddenham is open seven days a week 10.00am - 5.00pm with four fabulous show homes and a sales team that can assist you with all aspects of your purchase including Help to Buy*, our excellent Assisted Move scheme, and our new Part Exchange Scheme – both subject to approval and qualification. *For further information on ‘Assisted Move’, Part Exchange and Help to Buy and to register your interest about any of the new homes at The Grove visit www.dandara.com/ homes-for-sale-in-haddenham or call 0800 5875 171.

“There’s never been a better time to consider the prospect of a beautiful, awardwinning Dandara New Home”

OUT & ABOUT

WILTON PARK SET TO BECOME EXCITING NEW NEIGHBOURHOOD FOR BEACONSFIELD

On the edge of Beaconsfield Old Town and surrounded by green countryside, Wilton Park is set to become a highly desirable new place to live offering 304 new homes alongside a number of existing homes and new community facilities.

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he company behind it is leading brownfield developer Inland Homes, whose vision is to create a well-connected private estate set in a rural landscape, with a welcoming public park at its heart.

The first collection of three and four-bedroom homes are already available, offering the first opportunity to own a home in this exciting new community.

Ideally situated within half a mile of the M40 and close to Beaconsfield station, Wilton Park’s attractive location means that homes here are likely to be in great demand. Inland Homes acquired the 100-acre site from the Ministry of Defence in 2014

and has worked closely with the local community on the plans, appointing prestigious architecture firm ADAM Architecture on the design this flagship development. Now Wilton Park, which is the largest and most significant housing project in South Bucks for many years, is embarking on a new chapter as a vibrant place to live with new and existing homes alongside community and sports facilities and a new public park.

Part of the beauty of Wilton Park is its established, verdant setting. With a woodland backdrop, surrounded by green fields and golf courses, this is an ideal environment for growing families or those looking for somewhere peaceful to downsize for retirement. And despite the rural Buckinghamshire country surroundings, this location couldn’t be more convenient for commuters. There are fantastic road links to the A40 and M40 via the Pyebush Roundabout, while Beaconsfield Station, just a mile and a half away, is in easy reach from where it is just 23 minutes into London Marylebone.

Wilton Park will have the distinctive air of a traditional ‘English country estate’ with existing mature trees retained, open grassland and wildflower meadows providing an attractive and tranquil parkland. Sports pitches and children’s play areas are also being created, along with a new community hub, purpose-built premises for a day

“Wilton Park will have the distinctive air of a traditional ‘English country estate’” care nursery and a pavilion with café and gallery overlooking an ornamental pond. The design is carefully planned to create a connection with Old Beaconsfield and the countryside beyond, while having its own unique distinctive sense of place. A network of paths and cycleways will give walkers, joggers and cyclists safe ways to get around.

Within this attractive new village, Brackenwood is a collection of three and four-bedroom detached and semi-detached houses. These are existing properties with huge potential for individual refurbishment, providing a unique and exciting opportunity for the purchaser to create their own ideal home, personally designed to suit their tastes and lifestyles.

For enquiries about the Brackenwood collection of homes, please contact Savills on 01494 731 950. Visit newwiltonpark.com for more information about Wilton Park and inlandhomes.co.uk to view Inland Homes’ current homes for sale.

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OUT & ABOUT

Beech Court, Beaconsfield R

egularly featured in the ‘Top 10 Places to Live’ surveys, including Country Life’s 2019 Top 10 Market Towns in England, Beaconsfield is a modern, buzzing market town known for its charm and character, which has been preserved and built upon over the centuries. From Georgian to Tudor revival, a variety of facades greet you in both Old and New Town.

Beech Court is an open secret just waiting to be discovered by the discerning new home buyers of Beaconsfield. This private and prestigious development is set behind a towering screen of conifers, separating the stunning 4 and 5 bedroom detached homes of Beech Court from the rest of the world. A gated entrance and sweeping drive lead you to this exclusive retreat.

Diverse in both character and amenities, Beaconsfield caters perfectly to your unique lifestyle.

Every home on this development features deep driveways and large gardens. Just nine superb homes, the very essence of luxury.

Oakford Homes’ considered and design-led approach is what makes this new development stand out. Utilising artful design as the base on which everything else is built, whether that’s the spacious layout of the master bedroom or the look and feel of an internal door handle. This approach encompasses every detail considered both consciously and subliminally in an Oakford home.

The results are aspirational homes divided over two floors with features such as utility rooms, spacious hallways, gallery landings and detached garages. Chris Coates, Oakford Homes Managing Director says, “At the heart of every decision we make is your comfort, wants and unspoken needs; focussing on the creation of a beautiful house that goes above and beyond your criteria for the perfect home.”

When you choose an Oakford Home at Beech Court, the ground floor is ideal for entertaining and relaxation with bright and airy rooms offering you an abundance of space. Contemporary design blends seamlessly with traditional craftsmanship as seen in the Velux windows, bi-fold and sliding doors and luxurious finishes throughout.

In the heart of the home is the enticing and delightfully modern kitchen with select premier

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appliances, breakfast bar for casual dining, and looking out to the large rear garden. All the elegance you want, with the practical touches you need for the ideal working kitchen – ready for those lazy Sunday mornings or eight-person dinner parties in the separate dining room.

An atmosphere of comfort and relaxation permeates the first floor with statement gallery landings, elegant en suites and built-in wardrobes.

Substantial double bedrooms suffused with natural light and plush carpeting. All the features on the ’new house’ list are ticked.

In the pursuit of excellence, specification is a priority, not an afterthought. Oakford Homes’ unwavering eye for detail and dedication to craftsmanship is apparent in all of their homes.

There is no requirement for options and extras, as only premium materials, fittings and appliances are selected to ensure the perfect balance of comfort and sophistication. To Oakford, standard means standard-setting, the embodiment of a unique approach to creating homes.

Beech Court launches this February with an exemplary show home ready for viewing, one that embodies the high quality, contemporary design and featuring the finest specification, appliances and materials. Experience the luxury for yourself and discover the beauty within. www.oakfordhomes.co.uk

“When you choose an Oakford Home at Beech Court, the ground floor is ideal for entertaining and relaxation with bright and airy rooms offering you an abundance of space”

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

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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

OUT & ABOUT

The first-ever production car and a flying car go on display in the V&A

Cars: Accelerating the Modern World Until 19 April 2020

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he V&A has opened an exhibition looking at the car as the driving force that accelerated the pace of the 20th century.

The exhibition brings together a wideranging selection of cars that have never been on display in the UK, each telling a specific story about their impact on the world. This includes the first production car in existence, an autonomous flying car, a converted low-rider, and a 1950s concept car.

Showcasing 15 cars and 250 objects, the exhibition examines how the car changed our relationship to speed, how it changed the way we make and sell, and how it altered the landscape around us, from countryside to cityscape.

‘Going Fast’ opens the exhibition, exploring the role of the automobile in imagining a future world of liberated movement and technological progress.

Bringing together a range of 20th century concept car designs, magazine illustrations, and film, the display references popular culture, science-fiction and novel technologies to show the central role of the automobile in imagining an accelerated future.

The section continues with the first-ever production car, the Benz Patent Motorwagen 3, introduced to the public in 1888. Although it wasn’t fast at the time, technology developed rapidly, putting the thrill of speed at the hands of the driver and grabbing the fascination of the public.

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‘Making More’ explores the car as the archetype of modern manufacturing. On display, a Ford Model-T from 1925 traces the origins of the assembly line, its widespread impact on other areas of production and its evolution into the high-tech automated factories of today.

The final section of the exhibition, ‘Shaping Space’, explores the vast impact of the car on the world’s landscape, nations, and cities. It looks at how the petrol engine beat early electric and steampowered competitors by promising the ability to travel the world, transforming drivers into individual explorers.

Returning full circle to the fantasy images of a future world, the exhibition ends with the Pop. Up Next autonomous flying car co-designed by Italdesign, Airbus and Audi. On display for the first time in the UK, the car combines the four major innovations transforming the future of driving: electric power, autonomous driving, serviceoriented, and flying.

As we approach another major turning point in automotive design, the exhibition examines how the car in a mere 130 years has shaped the world we know today.

Bertha Benz embarking on the first motorised long-distance journey

the details Cars: Accelerating the Modern World runs until 19 April 2020.

Tickets are £18.

Members go free.

Social Media Twitter: @V_and_A Instagram: @vamuseum Facebook: @ VictoriaandalbertMusuem #VaVaVroom

OUT & ABOUT

HOMEBUYERS GIVEN AN INCENTIVE TO BUY NEW IN GREAT MISSENDEN

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ew Year, New Start event – Thursday 23rd January at The Cloisters, a new collection of cottages and apartments for the over 60s For those considering a move in 2020, Rectory Homes is encouraging purchasers to ‘think new’ and pay a visit to The Cloisters in Great Missenden, where they can secure a beautifully presented new home – with a host of additional benefits.

At a dedicated ‘New Year, New Start’ event, planned for Thursday 23rd January, potential purchasers are invited to join the sales team for some light refreshments in the new resident’s clubhouse. There will be an opportunity to view the show apartment and with both Assisted Move and Part Exchange available, the sales team will be on hand to talk through all the ways in which Rectory Homes could assist purchasers to make a new start at The Cloisters.

The Cloisters is a stylish collection of four, two bedroom cottages and 28, one and two bedroom apartments and is designed exclusively for the over 60’s and will offer as host of additional facilities, specifically with this more mature market in mind.

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In addition to beautifully landscape, communal gardens, The Cloisters will come complete with its own concierge, as well as a private Clubhouse, where residents will be able to access a host of events and activities throughout the year. The Apello safety and wellbeing system will be installed throughout the apartments, offering both residents and their families additional peace of mind.

Michelle Relton, Sales Manager at Rectory, said: “The homes here will be truly stunning. From the beautiful brick and flint exteriors to the high quality interior finish you will find throughout, The Cloisters won’t fail to impress. The development enjoys a prime high street location and will be beautifully finished throughout. They offer those more mature buyers an opportunity to retain their independence and secure themselves a stunning new home within easy reach of local amenities, while being able to benefit from the peace of mind that services such as the concierge and the wellbeing system are in place, as and when they may need them.”

Nestled within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and situated on the high street, just a short walk from the village centre and the host of local amenities on offer, The Cloisters enjoys a central location.

All of the homes will be highly specified throughout, with fully fitted kitchens and contemporary bathroom suites. The master bedrooms will include built-in wardrobes and underfloor heating will be included within all of the apartments and to the ground floors of all the cottages. There will be a lift service to all floors (for the apartments) and parking is available.

The sales suite is now open, Tuesday – Saturday, 10am – 5pm. For more information or to register for the event, call 01494 640989, email: thecloisters@rectory.co.uk or visit: www.rectory.co.uk/our-developments/greatmissenden

“The Cloisters is a stylish collection of four, two bedroom cottages and 28, one and two bedroom apartments and is designed exclusively for the over 60’s and will offer as host of additional facilities, specifically with this more mature market in mind”

OUT & ABOUT

Shop, play, and eat out at intu Watford and beat the January blues

H

appy New Year from everyone at intu Watford, let’s make 2020 a year of celebrations, fun and, of course, fashion & style.

Start the year with a bang and beat those January blues – and the winter weather - with a day out where everything you need is under one roof. Go shopping, bowling, catch the latest blockbuster movie, eat out or try wall climbing, you’ll find it all at intu Watford, and it doesn’t have to be expensive.

There are huge savings to be made throughout the January sales PLUS you can enjoy free parking for the whole month after 5pm!

Make the most of your evenings and shop late every Thursday, Friday and Saturday until 8pm.

Grab a drink after work, meet your partner for dinner, take the kids for a midweek treat or just have some extra ‘you’ time. With more shops, restaurants and leisure facilities than ever before, there’s so much more to discover at intu Watford.

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.

You can also find John Lewis & Partners, Apple, M.A.C, Zara, Pandora, Sole Trader…and now the new Flannels store!

Looking for something to eat or drink? Pop into the popular and stunning The Florist restaurant

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and bar or the recently opened Cassio Lounge. Not to mention Gourmet Burger Kitchen, Tortilla, Las Iguanas, Cote Brasserie, Ed’s Dinner and much more. Or if you’re in a rush and looking for a quick bite, try Chi street food or Mooboo bubble tea.

Bring the whole family, go bowling, play the arcades and grab a burger at the 14 lane Hollywood Bowl or be blown away at the IMAX Cineworld nine-screen cinema with laser screen! Or, whether you’re seven or 70, hook yourself up to Rock Up’s climbing walls, race to the top or climb for fun, it’s a perfect day out for everyone.

Plan your visit to get the most out of your intu Watford experience. Start by selecting one of the four car parks around the centre, each with over 600 spaces to park, including dozens of parent and disabled bays. Pay as you leave so you’re not clockwatching and can enjoy every moment - and don’t forget it’s free parking after 5pm in January!

Visit www.intu.co.uk/watford for all the opening times, facilities, shops, events and more. Plus, sign up to the intu Family Club to be the first to hear about family events, receive exclusive discounts and receive a free sign up goody bag.

It’s time to #discoverintuwatford

“Make the most of your evenings and shop late every Thursday, Friday and Saturday until 8pm”

Henley Town Centre £625,000 A spacious 3 bedroom duplex flat with a private rear garden.

Located on the ground floor and basement of this attractive bay fronted Victorian terrace, just a short walk from the railway station. Benefitting from an open plan kitchen and reception room with a fireplace, 2 modern bathrooms and a cloakroom.

EPC - D

Fawley, Buckinghamshire £1,395,000 A charming 4 bedroom detached brick and flint home, which has been recently extended and renovated, blending classic with contemporary design, creating a unique and intriguing family home. The house is impressive both internally and externally. In addition there is a tranquil landscaped rear garden and a private driveway with electric gate. EPC - E

Henley Town Centre £875,000 A 4 bedroom Victorian end of terrace, situated in Queen Street, just a short walk from the railway station and town square.

Featuring an extended open plan kitchen/dining room with a roof lantern and bi-folding doors to the west facing rear garden.

Recently re-fitted bathroom. Good decorative order throughout.

EPC - E

Maidenhead, Berkshire £695,000 A recently modernised 4 bedroom semi-detached home, situated in a sought after location close to the River Thames. The property offers well proportioned accommodation including a large reception room, kitchen, study and cloakroom, master bedroom with en suite and a private rear garden. EPC - C

OUT & ABOUT

LONDON ART FAIR 2020 Announces exhibitors and curated sections.

22 - 26 January 2020 (VIP preview 21 January), Business Design Centre, London N1

“Curated sections include Art Projects and Photo50”

L

ondon Art Fair returns to the capital for its 32nd edition - bringing museumquality modern and contemporary art to the capital. Recognised as a platform for connecting the best galleries from around the world with both seasoned and aspiring collectors, London Art Fair provides a unique opportunity to discover and champion outstanding modern and contemporary art.

London Art Fair provides expert insight into the contemporary art market through its talks, tours, screening programme and critically-acclaimed curated sections, including Art Projects, Photo50 and Dialogues. London Art Fair continues to champion regional collections through its annual museum partnership, which this year invites Southampton City Art Gallery to showcase their outstanding modern British and contemporary art.

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Curated sections include Art Projects and Photo50 - featuring the next generation of artists, collectives and gallerists; showcasing increasingly innovative and interactive ways to engage with art.

For 2020, Photo50 will capture the breadth of different artists working in textiles and the growing appreciation of the medium as a beautiful and collectible art form.

There will be an exciting and strong representation of sculpture, photography, prints and video installations throughout the fair, including previously unseen works.

A selection of key overarching themes to look out for at this year’s edition of London Art Fair include gender identity and feminism, national identity and the link between nature and internal wellbeing.

Over 100 galleries from around the world are participating in London Art Fair 2020, with new international exhibitors including Art Blue Studio (Singapore), Art Mûr (Canada), Cork Printmakers (Ireland), DAM Gallery (Germany), Kevin Kavanagh (Ireland), Gallery KITAI (Japan) and Tamar Dresdner Art Projects (Israel). London galleries include Advanced Graphics London, Flower’s Gallery, Lychee One and James Freeman Gallery.

London Art Fair’s specialism in Modern British art continues to be strongly represented and received through the participation of some of the UK’s leading galleries in the field.

THE DETAILS 22 - 26 January 2020 (Preview 21 January) Business Design Centre, 52 Upper Street, Islington, N1 0QH www.londonartfair.co.uk Tickets: £22, £17 in advance.

For latest news, follow @LondonArtFair on Facebook, Twitter Instagram (#LAF20)

OUT & ABOUT

Tower Bridge launches new film and exhibition in celebration of its for 125th Anniversary

Time Bascule: Wednesday 29 January – March 2020

T

ower Bridge is set to launch its latest art commission with internationally acclaimed artist, inventor and filmmaker Di Mainstone, who has written and directed a film to celebrate the iconic Bridge’s 125th anniversary.

In her film, entitled ‘Time Bascule’, Tower Bridge has been reimagined as a giant musical instrument, drawing inspiration from one of the first women to work on the Bridge - Hannah Griggs, who cooked for the Bridge Master and his family between 19111915. In Time Bascule Hannah plays the role of musical maestro to pluck the strings and ‘play’ the iconic London location.

Mixing the real with the imagined, the film explores Hannah’s life in the famous towers via a specially composed musical narrative that weaves through one of the remarkable personal histories from 125 years of the Bridge. Focusing on her love of plants, the dreamlike work sees Hannah researching the connection between music and plant growth, working to develop larger and more ambitious tools to help her ‘play’ Tower Bridge like a giant musical instrument.

The brand new work will be on display as part of an immersive exhibition in the Victorian Engine Rooms, inviting visitors to step into the song at the heart of the Bridge and experience the – until now – hidden sounds of London’s defining landmark.

Designed to showcase the making of the film, the exhibition will include behind the scenes footage, storyboards and early sketches, and a chance for visitors to play a range of specially created musical instruments, all housed among the cultivated plants at the heart of Hannah’s fairy-tale.

Artist Di Mainstone has previously developed instruments to create music from the Brooklyn Bridge, Clifton Suspension Bridge and most recently Sunderland’s new Northern Spire Bridge. She is an award-winning WIRED innovation fellow who specialises in creating playable bridges and wearable sonic devices. The New York Times has featured her as one of their ‘new generation visionaries’ of the international digital art scene.

Di Mainstone says: “I wanted visitors to view the Bridge in a different way, reimagining the iconic

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crossing as a giant musical instrument to hear the historic song at the heart of its 125-year history.

I was determined to give visitors a greater insight into the story of Hannah Griggs - it was inspiring to meet her descendants, and bring her personal history to life in such a wonderful location. The film takes a look at the wider discussion around climate change, utilising the Bascule mechanism of the Bridge as a metaphor for balance, harmony and the delicate balance of our ecosystem”.

Chris Earlie, Head of Tower Bridge, says: “We’re thrilled to welcome artist Di Mainstone to reimagine one of the enduring human stories behind London’s defining landmark. We’re excited to showcase the fascinating visual and sonic work Di has crafted as part of her specially commissioned piece, welcoming visitors to explore the Bridge in a truly different light. The exhibition kick-starts another exciting year for the Bridge, further establishing Tower Bridge as a cross-genre cultural space in the capital.”

For more details visit www.towerbridge.org.uk #InsideTowerBridge

“We’re thrilled to welcome artist Di Mainstone to reimagine one of the enduring human stories behind London’s defining landmark”

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

01442 879 393 49 Sycamore Road, Amersham HP6 5EQ

01494 431634 www.amuletfinejewellery.com open Monday to Saturday 9.30-5.30 Sundays 10.00-4.30 (Amersham Only)

fashion, HEALTH

& beauty – Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – i m a g e : to p d r a we r

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

[NEWS]

FASHION & BEAUTY OFF THE CUFF We love these gorgeous cufflinks from Fox and Chave.

Made in Britain. www.foxandchave.com

all wrapped up WEARABLE ART We simply love these clothes and jewellert pieces by Top Drawer. Jewellery designer Hila finds inspiration working with raw industrial materials not naturally associated with jewellery. Materials that are often perceived as rough and unrefined are transformed into stunning wearable art that is both feminine and chic.

And brand One Hundred Stars aims to create beautiful, universal, affordable and ethical garments to flatter all. This kimono is just gorgeous! www.topdrawer.co.uk

SPLASH OF COLOUR Lovely opulent and stylish Brazilian Agate drop earrings. The golden hoops hug the earlobe as the Orange Agate stones dangle, giving them great support. www.mosaicojewellery.co.uk

PAMPERED POOCHES Your personalised bag is made from supple black Italian leather, with your breed silhouette and dogs name printed onto soft yet robust canvas fabric. This personalised bag has a comfortable webbing shoulder strap and a secure zip closure, which makes it ideal to wear every day. www.binkyandmills.co.uk 76 JANUARY 2020

sunshine style Cheer up your look with this sunshine yellow pouch, hand screen printed with a floral bird print. It is fun and functional, with a sturdy cotton twill lining and a leather pull. It’s the perfect size to house all your essentials - pop small change, cards, keys and your phone in there, makeup or use as a travel wallet. www.postcardshome.co.uk

Wrap yourself in luxury with the Mineheart scarf collection.

Featuring 10 designs, made from a blend of silk and modal fabric - a super soft fiber made from beech trees, for a supple and lightweight fashion accessory. Showcasing a range of artistic styles and techniques, these designs will work flawlessly with your favourite outfit. Featuring art work “New World Damask - Grey & Blue”.

Inspired by modern symbols, icons and vector art to create this stylish scarf. www.mineheart.com

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

love your body again THE DETAILS Plastic, Cosmetic and Aesthetic Surgery by outstanding, innovative and multi-award winning surgeon with over 20 years clinical experience:

A

s the weather is cooling down and short sleeves and sunglasses are becoming a distant memory, now is a time to plan if you’re a busy mum who dreads the move into summer clothes, looking into a possible ‘Mummy Makeover’. Having children is a big life event without the variety of physical changes that women can experience and that may prove difficult to reverse with diet and exercise. These changes can greatly affect your self-confidence. With a combination of treatments catered specifically to your issues, here at Spire Thames Valley Hospital, we hope to help you fall in love with your body just as much as you have with your baby!

A recent patient’s thoughts: “The total experience of undergoing cosmetic surgery has been a complete revelation and has improved my personal confidence well beyond my own expectations. The surgery was carried out in the most professional and caring manner by Mr. Armstrong. The procedure was pain free and the aftercare and follow up was superb. The results are just outstanding and I am absolutely delighted.”

Key areas that are commonly (but not exclusively) addressed are sagging breasts, flabby tummies, excess fat on the hips, buttocks, thighs and arms, and stretch marks. “Mummy makeover” surgery typically involves procedures, either performed together in one operation, or over a series of appointments. With a package price there are no unexpected costs and those seeking to recreate their pre-pregnancy bodies can be assured of a complete care pathway.

Mummy makeover expert Anthony Armstrong FRCS(Plast) is passionate about the combination 78 JANUARY 2020

of cosmetic treatments that can help reverse unwanted physical changes that have been caused by pregnancy. Anthony was honoured to have been nominated by his patients as a Finalist for Cosmetic Surgeon of the Year 2018 and 2019 in the “Safety in Beauty Awards”. Anthony commented: “It is very important that from the outset you get an honest, informed and balanced opinion as to whether surgery can achieve your expectations for cosmetic enhancements and rejuvenation.”

With 20 years of experience as a consultant plastic surgeon and a member of the British Association of Aesthetic Surgeons (BAAPS), Anthony welcomes face to face consultations where there is no pressure to make a decision straight away. The limitations of any procedure will be fully discussed and explained, as will the risks so that you are best placed to make an informed decision.

Anthony is commonly asked to perform the following procedures: • Breast implants/Breast reduction/Breast uplift • Tummy tucks-from mini to full tummy tuck • Liposuction • Facelifts and fat transfer • Arms reductions • Eyelid surgery • Rhinoplasty • Non-surgical treatments Plastic surgery is a huge decision and we work with you to ensure all procedures are carried out in a safe and professional manner. It’s your body, and we will work hard to make sure that it feels just that again.

Anthony Armstrong BDS(Hons), MBChB(Hons), FDSRCS(Ed), FRCS(Eng), FRCS(Plast)

Finalist “Cosmetic Surgeon of the Year 2018 & 2019” Safety in Beauty Awards

Consultant Anthony Armstrong has numerous testimonials to his work and more information can be found at www.anthonyarmstrong.co.uk Appointments: Tel: 01753 665404 Email: enquiries@ spirethamesvalley.com

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Huda Beauty Lip Strobe in Angelic, £17, available from Harvey Nichols

Lip Gloss in Clear, £11, available from Glossier

Lipglass in Prrr, £16, available from MAC

GET THE GLOSS

This Nineties favourite is back in fashion and it’s all about attaining a glamorous shine, says Prudence Wade.

L

Maybelline Baby Lip Gloss Number 25 in Life’s a Peach, £3.99, available from Amazon

ip gloss is one of those items that can take you straight back to the Nineties - a time when all the make-up know-how you needed was the ability to apply a slick of sticky, glittery, berry-flavoured gloss to your mouth. And now it’s back - and luckily, it’s had an adult update. One of the best things about lip gloss is just how easy it is to use. Unlike some of the more complicated beauty trends of the moment - looking at you contouring - all you have to do is swish it on your lips in a vaguely neat way. So here are some of the lip gloss trends ruling the high street and the catwalks at the moment. And don’t worry, formulas have moved on since the 1990s you shouldn’t have your hair sticking to your lips quite so often...

Pale and interesting Two decades ago, the idea of lip gloss giving you a ‘no make-up make-up’ look would have been practically inconceivable. Now, it’s very much on trend. Instead of going for a crazy colour or sticky finish, opt for a shade that suits your lip colour and gives it a softer, natural look. Depending on your skintone, gentle rosy pinks and peach colours work well, making your lips look polished and dewy - like you’ve just rolled out of bed, in a good way. The key to this look - and when applying any lip gloss - is preparation. “Ensure your lips are well prepped by using an exfoliator first to get rid of any dryness,” explains Sascha Jackson, lead make-up artist at Stila

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UK. “If you are using a nude or semi-transparent gloss, I recommend using a lip liner close to your natural lip colour just to create shape.”

Glass lips Once you’ve mastered paler shades, you’ll be ready to graduate to a glass finish; a lip gloss with an extra-shiny, almost mirror-like look to it.

“This is a slightly wet look all over, which gives a healthy and youthful appearance,” explains make-up artist Stacey Whittaker. “This particular look is

Oh My Gloss Oil Tint Lip Gloss in Pink, £6.99, available from Amazon

Beauty Boss Lip Gloss in Pink Slip, £14, available from Stila

popular on catwalks and creates an editorial feel. My top tip for applying gloss is that a little goes a long way,” she adds. “Apply a small amount to the centre of your lips and use your finger to carefully blend this towards the outer corners.” With an ultra-glossy lip, it can be hard to know what to do with the rest of your make-up. “I like to team this with a glossy or creamy finish on the cheeks, but then a matte or suede eye,” notes Jackson. “The difference in textures really complement each other.”

Dior Addict Lip Plumping Lacquered Ink Lipstick in Lovely-D, £30, available from John Lewis

Plump it up If you’re not keen on injectables or other enhancements, there are plenty of products on the market that offer a non-surgical plump-up - all you have to do is swipe on some lippy. In fact, the phrase ‘plumping lip gloss’ has seen a 45% increase in searches on Pinterest from October 2018 to October 2019. These kinds of lip glosses tend to include tingle-inducing hyaluronic acid, a beloved skincare ingredient often used to help with hydration - and better hydrated lips can mean a bouncier, fuller pout. Jackson is a particular fan of Stila Beauty Boss Lip Gloss, saying: “It’s enriched with hyaluronic filling spheres which naturally smooth and give a more plump appearance. The pigments are incredible, which means you don’t have to layer lipstick underneath to get a good colour.”

Soft Matte Lip Cream in Amsterdam, £6, available from Nyx

Lady in red A bold red lip is a classic look, and one most of us apply with lipstick. But what about trying that red lip with gloss? You might find it’s easier to apply and lasts longer. Either opt for an already shiny red lip gloss, or use any red you have and layer a clear product on top. “For the festive season, adding a soft sheen gloss over a pop of coloured lipstick is bang on trend for Christmas 2019,” says Whittaker.

“Opting for a soft sheen will add dimension to your lips and create a plump and full effect.”

Lancome L’Absolu Gloss Plumping Lipgloss in Rosy Plump, £24, available from John Lewis

Shot of Colour Lip Oil in Flash Me!, £19, available from MAC

MUA Velvet Matte Liquid Lip in Reckless, £3, available from Superdrug

JANUARY 2020 81

OUT & ABOUT FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

My

Red Valentine “M

y Red Valentine” is a beautiful colour coordinated collection of personal accessories created by Heating & Plumbing London.

Shades of red are blended across the collection of personal accessories that are the perfect gift for that someone special in your life. Each item is beautifully designed in London and made in the British Isles, with the exception of the Champagne bucket and the dress socks, which are made in France.

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Alpaca Checked Throw The combination of soft Alpaca and strong breathable Merino wool makes this gorgeous throw a perfect design accessory for your home and will keep you warm and cosy around the house. The blend of the two creates a warm and lightweight blanket. £145

Luxury lounge socks in British alpaca Made from 75% British alpaca (the alpacas are farmed in the West of England) and 25% wool, these lounge socks are knitted in Britain. These soft & comfy socks are perfect for cosy winter nights.

They will keep your feet toasty and warm in bed or for when lazing on the sofa. £22.50

Red checked pure new wool picnic rug with dark grey waterproof backing and handmade red carrying leather strap.

Our luxury waterproof picnic blankets will make your picnics comfy, dry and stylish! Each rug is large enough and ideal for several adults, but rolls up into an easy-to-carry bundle with a slim elegant strap that can hook onto your backpack or bike for a day out. Truly designed for the unpredictable British weather, with a soft top layer of pure new wool lined with durable waterproof backing, these rugs are gloriously comfortable to sit on. £125

Red striped dress shocks Designed in London and made in France.

78% cotton / 20% polyamide / 2% elastane for additional comfort. One size. £12.75

The Little Explorer This blanket with waterproof backing is the perfect walker’s companion. It’s light and easily fits into a bag and will bring a great element of comfort and cosiness to your picnics and walking explorations.

The collection is available in organic cotton or pure new wool and in 6 colours. £39.50

British Folding Umbrella Our folding umbrellas are lovingly made and assembled in England. Our canopies are manually cut and each umbrella is hand finished. All the components come from reliable and skilled suppliers. The scorched maple crook handle is made in Italy, while the polyester fabric is sourced from Japan. The sturdy auto open frame makes this compact umbrella an essential accessory for the city lover. Each umbrella comes with matching sleeve. £89

Champagne bucket range Our “Keep Your Cool” champage bucket was created for those summer evenings spent on the beach or in a local park with a picnic and a nice bottle of rosé or champagne that needs to be kept cool while enjoying the sunshine. The base of the champagne cooler is shaped, so that your bottle is slightly tilted and can be nicely covered with ice and remain very cold. We paired a white bucket with a gorgeous red leather strap. £48.50 www.heating-and-plumbing.com

Don’t let Back Pain Ruin your Day!

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

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

“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

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

style it up: PRETTY PINAFORES

The ribbed fabric is having a fashion moment, says Katie Wright.

W

hile floaty floral dresses - and a certain spotty frock - dominated summer, now that winter is in full swing, we’ve got the perfect solution if you’re looking to switch up your style.

Corduroy is a major trend for right now and there’s one item we’re loving more than any other: the cord pinafore.

This cute but cosy dress is the answer to many a winter wardrobe conundrum, and there are so many gorgeous options in the shops right now.

While corduroy has traditionally been a bit of a fusty fabric, associated with the archetypal ‘geography teacher’ fashion faux pas, these days

“The cord pinafore is a prime example of how the tactile texture has had a modern makeover”

it’s become as cool as leather or suede.

The cord pinafore is a prime example of how the tactile texture has had a modern makeover - no wonder it’s become a fashion blogger fave.

So, how to style it? The coolest combo is a pinafore with a rollneck or funnel neck top, which will keep you warm on wintry days.

For something a bit dressier, team your pinafore with an off-the-shoulder knit.

With most cord pinafores coming in autumn leaf and night sky colours, you could add something tonal such as tan or moss green, or lighten your outfit with a cream or white top.

Complete your look with a pair of heeled hiking boots - the season’s hottest footwear, FYI - and your outfit is complete.

86 JANUARY 2020

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

GORGEOUS WINTER NAILS Keep your nails looking strong and healthy with these top tips, says Katie Wright.

T

rying to keep your nails from breaking is difficult at any time of year, but in winter, it’s almost impossible.

During the cold months the elements combine to dry out your nails and make them more brittle, flaky and prone to chips than usual - it’s particularly annoying when you want your nails to look pretty for party season.

The good news is, there are several ways to counteract the effects of the cold - and we don’t just mean getting back to back gel manicures.

vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, along with pro vitamin B5. Simply paint the treatment onto nails at night and let it work its magic. Rinse clean in the morning with water and voila, healthy and revitalised nails.”

Cienna Rose Overnight Success Revival Mask, £10

Here, Carla Opoku, founder of cruelty free and vegan nail brand Cienna Rose shares seven top tips to strengthen your nails in winter.

Give your nails a break “We all love shiny salon style nails, however gel manicures can really dry out the nails. So, take a much-needed break from the gels once in a while and give yourself a pretty DIY mani.”

Mavala Scientifique K+ Nail Hardener, £14.85, John Lewis

Hydrate with an oil “We use oils on our face, body and hair so why not use them on your nails too? Cuticle oils hydrate the cuticle, skin and nail area and as they penetrate deeper, are great at giving brittle nails and dry skin a mega moisture boost.”

Barry M Nail Shot Avocado, £3.99, Superdrug

Exfoliate regularly “Nails have layers of dead cells that become dehydrated and damaged. Exfoliation helps buff away build-up of dead skin and maintain strength and good health. Massage a scrub on the surface of your nails in gentle circular motions to smooth and brighten beds.”

Don’t forget your base coat “Always wear a base coat even if you don’t have time for a full on manicure. Applying a hydrating and strengthening base coat can prevent nails from peeling and becoming weak but make sure you use a natural formula without any harsh chemicals.”

Cienna Rose Inner Strength Nail Hardener Treatment Base Coat, £10.50

Boost your B vitamins “Bumpy, ridged nail beds are not a pretty sight and could be caused by a vitamin deficiency. Try increasing your vitamin B9 intake, otherwise known as folic acid, which helps repair cells and promote overall nail health. Also try boosting your diet with foods like beans and wholegrains that are rich in folic acid.”

Dr.’s Remedy Enriched Nail Care Base Coat, £10.72, Amazon

Try a nail mask “Transform tired and brittle nails while you sleep with a treatment such as the the Cienna Rose Overnight Success Revival Mask. Combining a synthetic crystalline protein that’s super effective at rehydrating and seaweed, a brilliant source of 88 JANUARY 2020

Ditch the acetone “Acetone packed nail polish removers can be very harsh on nails and can instantly dry them out, leading to splitting and peeling, so go acetone-free.

“Massage a scrub on the surface of your nails in gentle circular motions to smooth and brighten beds”

House &

garden – Keep it local for everything house and home – I M AG E : ANNI E S LOAN

SPONSORED BY

Expert property solicitors for all aspects of residential conveyancing. www.slatergordon.co.uk/property

H OUSE & GARDEN

[NEWS]

INTERIORS

MAKE IT MAXIMALISM

LIGHT AND BRIGHT

An all-white interior creates the illusion of a room being lighter, brighter and larger. As useful as it is, white is not an emotional colour, so you’ll need layers of texture and tones to bring depth and comfort. Use nuanced shades, from cool to warm, for a softer, more flattering look than a single, pure white,” says Annie Sloan. “If you’re a fan of the modern rustic aesthetic, white-painted reclaimed timber creates a wonderfully cosy look. www.anniesloan.com

HYGGE HOME, HAPPY HOME

Share a little happiness with Shekåbba this Winter.

Whether you are looking to recreate the hygge of a Danish home or the chic style of a Copenhagen kitchen, start with Shekåbba. www.shekabba.com

BEST OF BOTH

If your humble abode lacks space and style, opt for the Norbury Sofa, also available as a sofa bed. This sofa would inject light into a smaller living room or guest bedroom. Versatile with sleek designs, this sofa offers design and comfort all in one! www.darlingsofchelsea.co.uk 92 JANUARY 2020

Audenza is derived from Latin, meaning to be audacious, daring, bold or courageous.

Which is exactly how the ladies behind Audenza feel you should approach decorating your home.

“Maximalism exudes the true Audenza spirit. A spirit that celebrates the love of colour, texture, contrast and above all, exuberance. An homage to a glamorous and exciting way of living, with that essential touch of quirkiness for added pizzazz.”

– Amelia Brooks, co-founder of Audenza www.audenza.com

A NEw YEAR …A NEw LooK

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

fine tuning

at COUNTRYWIDE PIANOS

C

ountrywide Pianos has been proudly serving both the local and wider community and we have developed from small beginnings to become the ultimate premier showroom in the South- East of England.

The piano’s magical sound is created by the player pressing any one of its 88 keys, which creates a note. This happens through a complex hammer-on-string mechanism, which needs to be perfectly regulated and tuned. In the 1900’s a piano which played by itself, by reading a punched out paper roll, was all the rage. Today pianos are sophisticated musical instruments, which may not only play themselves but can be enhanced by full orchestral and vocal parts – in essence providing a live orchestral performance in your own sitting room. Today the punched out paper rolls have been replaced with the very latest digital technology, incorporated within a real acoustic piano, which can be played as a regular piano. Seeing, however is believing and a visit to Countrywide Pianos for a full demonstration is recommended.

Our showroom is an array of both new and pre loved pianos with a price range to suit all pockets -from the upright piano to the very largest of full size concert grand piano, self player pianos, ‘Silent’ Yamaha pianos, together with recognition of being a Kawai real and digital Piano Selection centre you really will find it fun making your choice and for those who may need assistance there is always help and advice on hand.

Being perfectly located just 35 minutes outside of London with our own FREE car parking right outside the door, shopping is made easy and enjoyable. We will arrange delivery and collection together with onsite tuning and 24 hour event support. With all of this to offer and our specialist

94 JANUARY 2020

THE DETAILS 194 Penn Road, High Wycombe HP15 7NU. 01494 813388. www.countrywidepianos.co.uk

knowledge, it is little wonder that we have become first choice for many major events anywhere in the UK. At Countrywide Pianos, our in- house team of piano specialists include, piano technicians to piano tuners, piano polishers to our own piano logistics team, we offer a service next to none. A traditional service, which holds on to the best but moves with the times. Countrywide Piano Centre www.countrywidepianos.co.uk is as traditional as the piano itself.

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

West of London

O N A PI ON Ry W UA O N EN JA SAL

Countrywide Pianos

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

A wealth of choice at Window Wise Window Wise Company Ltd are approaching their 40th year in business and the choices now available have never been so apparent.

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o-owner Christian Metcalfe explains:“From replacing one or two windows and doors, a complete refurbishment project or new build, the products and choices available now to customers are greater than ever”.

A lot of important decision have to be made to ensure that the designs and styles of the windows and doors compliment the property and also comply with the glazing and security regulations that are now required.

Colour options on both uPVC and aluminium frames have increased over the last 5 years and it is quite often that a large door system in either bifolding or sliding is a different colour finish to the rest of the windows, which in turn makes a feature of the property. It’s even the case now with a traditional looking house that the front elevation can retain the character, but the rear can be transformed into a contemporary look with the glazing being the prime factor in the design.

Being able to show customers all of the products and choices available were one of the most important decisions when Window Wise relocated to their new showroom.

Christian adds “ My business partner, Bruce (Hutchens) and I understand that potential

96 JANUARY 2020

THE DETAILS Free Parking Opening Hours Mon-Fri 8.00am – 5.30pm Sat 9.00am – 2.00pm Telephone: 01494 776242 01923 260636 Email: info@window-wise.co.uk www.window-wise.co.uk

customers want to have the opportunity to come and see, feel, touch, open/close the windows and doors.

They want to have a close look at the frames, look at the finishes available, glass options and handles etc.

We are very mindful of the power of photographs on internet websites/social media and how they provide early ideas of what customers want; however we wanted to be part of the next stage and give customers the opportunity to come and see the quality of the products we offer.

To provide the service and the opportunity for customers to view all products, Window Wise Co Ltd are pleased to announce the opening of their new showroom in Buckinghamshire. Located in the town of Chesham, their 2700 sq ft premises includes a complete range of windows, doors, bifolding doors, panoramic sliding doors, front entrance doors and rooflights, available in both aluminium and uPVC options.