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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

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CONTENTS OUT & ABOUT

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

HOUSE & GARDEN

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 â€“ We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month â€“ I M AG E : b u r n h a m bee c h e s g o l f c l u b

OUT & ABOUT

18 MARCH

Orchid Day at Buckingham Garden Centre Our popular Orchid Day features top Orchid expert Peter White. Orchid talks at 11am and 2pm with Orchid MOT clinic in between. How to best look after orchids, and make them reflower. Followed by Orchid Clinic – Bring in your orchid for an MOT. Tingewick Road, Buckingham, Buckinghamshire MK18 4AE

[events]

OUT & ABOUT 4 april

Gertrude Hermes: Black and White Boutis Create a block-printed panel on fabric inspired by Gertrude Hermes’ work and embellish your design with a ‘boutis’ style quilting technique. Suitable for beginners with experience of hand stitching. With artist Camilla Shelley. £45. 10.30am – 3.30pm. The River & Rowing Museum, Mill Meadows, Henley-on-Thames RG9 1BF

11, 17 & 31 MARCH

MARCH AT CHILTERN BOOKSHOPS Talking about change with Julia Samuels on Tuesday 17 March at 7pm at The Reach Free School, Long Lane, Mill End, Rickmansworth WD3 8AB Lord Rabbi Jonathan Sacks on Morality on Wednesday 11 March at 7pm at The Merchant Taylors’ School, Rickmansworth HA6 2HT My Dark Vanessa by Kate Elizabeth Russell in Conversation with Alice O’Keeffe, Books Editor at The Bookseller on Tuesday 31 March at 7pm at Chorleywood Library, Lower Road WD3 5LB

20 MARCH 2020

8 MARCH

The Compleat Angler, Marlow Wedding Fair The Macdonald Compleat Angler is a Perfect Venue for a Wedding Fair with its large function rooms and idyllic location. You’ll find a great selection of Local Wedding Suppliers & Services making it perfect whether you’re thinking of the Hotel for your wedding or looking elsewhere. 11am - 3.30pm. The Compleat Angler, Marlow Bridge, Marlow, Buckinghamshire SL7 1RH

7 MARCH

City of London Sinfonia: Beethoven and Mozart: Chiltern Arts Festival 2020 Ludwig van Beethoven - Septet in Eb Major, Op. 20. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart - Serenade in Bb Major ‘Gran Partita’ Written between 1799 and 1800, the Septet marked the end of Beethoven’s first major output of chamber music. Its style has been said to imitate the lighter side of Mozart’s writing; and here we hear it alongside Mozart’s most technically complex and ambitious wind serenade: the Gran Partita. 7.30pm £20.00 - £35.00 St Mary’s Church, Church Street, Old Amersham, Buckinghamshire HP7 0BD

OUT & ABOUT

[events]

OUT & ABOUT

7-8 MARCH

MK Handmade & Vintage Spring Weekend Extravaganza With 130+ of the region’s most original and affordable, handpicked designer-makers, artists and vintage/retro/antique sellers, you’ll find an eclectic mix of thousands of special high quality goodies ‘not on the high street’. It is a unique opportunity to shop for a multitude of unique, beautiful items, all in one place or even to commission a bespoke item. Expert exhibitors offer everything handmade and vintage, from furniture to fashions, from jewellery to jukeboxes, always specialising in the gorgeous, the cool and the quirky. Free entry! In front of John Lewis, Centre:MK (Milton Keynes Shopping Centre), Buckinghamshire MK9 3ES

22 MARCH

Foraging Courses in Milton Keynes The course starts with a short introduction on what to look for and a brief of the Countryside Act. Then we’ll set off on a roughly 2.5 hour walk around the fields, hedgerows and riverside teaching you how to identify the different plants and mushrooms we find. We’ll stop along the way for some homemade refreshments such as our lovely hogweed and wild garlic soup. Afterwards, we will end the day with a tasty wild food lunch based on what we have found and some preprepared homemade treats. After the course, we will email you a list of everything we talk about on the day to help you to remember what you have learnt. Please see website for full details of times and further course dates at this venue. Adults £50, under 16’s £25, under 12’s free. Ouzel Valley Park, Simpson Drive, Simpson, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire MK6 3AY

28 MARCH

Piano Recital: Cristin Sandrin Cristian Sandrin is an exciting young pianist who has won a number of prizes. He is a selected artist for the Countess of Munster Musical Trust, whose generous support for this concert is gratefully acknowledged. Concert starts 7pm. Tickets £15. Under 18s free. Amersham Free Church, Sycamore Road, Amersham, Buckinghamshire HP6 6AJ

22 MARCH

Antiques & Collectables Fair Up to 80 tables, selling a wide and interesting variety of items from antique to modern vintage. We are a very friendly fair with the emphasis on fun as well as some amazing bargains. Come on down for a visit down memory lane. Haddenham Village Hall, Banks Park, Haddenham Village, Buckinghamshire HP17 8EE 22 MARCH 2020

24 march

Spotlight Talk: The Boat Race Letter Join our Curator to find out about the 1829 Boat Race letter, one of the most important letter correspondences in the history of rowing. The letter marks the foundation of the Oxford Cambridge Boat Race, recognised globally as one of the fiercest rivalries in sport. Free with admission, booking essential. 2.30pm – 3.00pm The River & Rowing Museum, Mill Meadows, Henley-onThames RG9 1BF

OUT & ABOUT

Spring at The Ivy Marlow Garden T

his spring, The Ivy Marlow Garden is delighted to be adding a number of new and mouth-watering dishes to its already extensive menu, just in time for those warmer and longer days. As part of this exciting, new, spring offering, The Ivy Marlow Garden will introduce the Chargrilled halloumi (£14.95), consisting of giant couscous, smoked aubergine, red pepper purée, pomegranate, toasted almonds and labneh, which is set to be a firm favourite for the brasserie’s vegetarian guests. Whilst the popular Chicken Milanese (£18.50), now features a brioche-crumbed chicken breast with shaved asparagus, radish, mixed herbs, green pesto and herb mayonnaise; a subtle yet delicious tweak on the classic. The brasserie’s spring menu will also feature a new vegan option for all to enjoy, the Quinoa and watermelon salad ( £13.95), made with roast sweet potato, rocket, baby gem, radish, feuilles de brick crisp, mixed seeds and sesame, with a mint and coriander sauce All these new dishes and more will be available at The Ivy Marlow Garden from Wednesday, 4 March 2020. www.theivymarlowgarden.com

26 MARCH 2020

OUT & ABOUT

AT ROYAL ASCOT 2020 BE PART OF THE DRAMA

THE DETAILS Tuesday 16th to Saturday 20th June Book by 31st March for early booking savings Enclosure Pricing: Queen Anne tickets from £72 Group tickets from £61 per person Village tickets from £64 Group tickets from £53 per person Windsor tickets from £32 Group tickets from £26 per person Book now at www.ascot.co.uk or call 0344 346 3000

28 MARCH 2020

ne of the most anticipated events in the British summer’s sporting and social calendar, Royal Ascot is an unforgettable five days of spectacular pageantry, unparalleled racing, high fashion and Fine Dining – truly an occasion like none other. From the arrival of the Royal Procession as the clock strikes two, to the communal singing around Ascot’s Bandstand, this is an event which must be seen to be believed. As Britain’s most valuable race meeting, Royal Ascot is revered across the globe and attracts many of racing’s finest horses to compete for millions of pounds in prize money, with six world-class races on the card each afternoon. An astonishing nineteen Group races, of which no fewer than eight boast Group 1 status, have made household names of the likes of Yeats, Black Caviar and Frankel. Her Majesty The Queen, a lifelong lover of horse racing and a passionate racehorse owner and breeder, has

graced all five days of the Royal Meeting every year since her coronation in 1953. In 2013, Her Majesty’s filly Estimate landed The Gold Cup - the first time in the history of the Royal Meeting that its most prestigious race had been won by the reigning monarch. Royal Ascot is of course equally synonymous with sartorial elegance, being awash with exquisite fashion and the most magnificent millinery creations. An abundance of formal and casual dining options makes it the perfect occasion for socialising with friends or thanking clients, with à la carte luncheons, gourmet picnics, afternoon teas and Fine Dining in one of Ascot’s stunning restaurants each offering their own cuisine, atmosphere and views of the racecourse. All five days have their own distinct character, each is a whirlwind of excitement and colour, sharing the same glorious atmosphere and sense of occasion. Each is unmistakably Royal Ascot. Everyone enjoys the unique celebration of Royal Ascot in their own way, so there is a magnificent choice of enclosures for you to choose from for you and your friends. Truly an occasion like none other.

OUT & ABOUT

Interview with Paul Joseph, owner of Health and Fitness Travel, a Beaconsfield-based wellness travel company.

Where did the inspiration behind the company come from? We launched in 2010 when I forecasted a rise in wellness tourism. No one was offering these holidays at the time, apart from spa breaks there was not much choice for the consumer who wanted to go on a healthy retreat or a fitness holiday. I therefore created a wellness hub 10 years ago providing a personalised service that recognised what the true meaning of a wellness holiday is. What is the company philosophy? Health and Fitness Travel is the leading wellness travel company specialising in creating and organising high quality and life-enhancing experiences, which aim to boost your health and fitness. We offer a wide range of healthy holidays around the world from weight loss, fitness, yoga, detox, meditation to medical spas, active tours, sports holidays and specialised retreats. How has the industry changed over the last 10 years? Wellness tourism is a growing industry which is supported by travellers actively seeking ways to enhance their health and fitness on the go. We have witnessed a continuous rise over the past decade from hiking in Morocco to sailing in Montenegro. The importance of diet, fitness and healthy practices have transformed our way of travel and our holidays now reflect the values of today’s health-conscious consumers. What are the emerging trends? We have more clients booking 28-day wellness sabbaticals. Mindfulness and emotional wellbeing have become increasingly important in a time where constant connectivity can leave us exhausted and over-stimulated, so our digital detox and mindful retreats are surging in popularity. What are the hottest destinations/holidays for 2020? Montenegro is a very up and coming destination and we are introducing a new sailing and wellness trip there, along with active and wellness tours, and retreats in Cuba, Iceland, Colombia, Peru and Japan. Why do you think more and more people are 30 MARCH 2020

booking wellness and fitness breaks? As our nation continues to become increasingly health-conscious, an increasing number of us are swapping sun loungers for sport, with health and fitness holidays now an option for everyone from yoga retreats to bootcamps. A fitness holiday is more about achieving a personal goal, be it weight loss or simply rebalancing an unhealthy lifestyle and I have noticed a huge increase in the amount of clients signing up for active breaks, which is why we introduced our range of Fusion Fitness, Mindful Triathlon and Discover Recover holidays. Some of our clients work such long hours and spare time is precious – they want to invest their money into heath and fitness and book a wellness retreat which offers a total mind and body overhaul. If someone has never been on this kind of break what would you recommend trying? I would recommend trying one of our Intro to Wellness breaks so they can still enjoy a wonderful holiday, whilst having the flexibility to be as busy or as quiet as they like. Our team of Wellness Travel Specialists can book them a free wellness holiday consultation via phone or in personal at our Beaconsfield shop. What is your favourite kind of holiday? One of our Discover Recover holidays where I can choose an active or wellness tour, connect with nature and people. Once I’ve experienced the local culture, I would then retreat at a resort with a programme of spa treatments, group classes, fitness and sport activities, healthy food, relaxation by the beach or in mountains, so I end my wellness trip with a learned travel experience whilst feeling rejuvenated in mind and body.

THE DETAILS Quote ‘HFT Beaconsfield’ for £100 of your next holiday booking Visit www.healthandfitnesstravel. com or call 0203 397 8891

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OUT & ABOUT

Sweet 16th Birthday Party T

Not for the faint hearted!

aking on any special occasion for the ones among us lucky enough to have been born after the millennium is no mean feat. Add to that the daughter of a well-known and respected celebrity from the local area, we needed to up the ante. Our client wanted an occasion to mark her turning 16 and we were delighted to help. Thankfully mum was well aware of the pitfalls to avoid and worked with us closely to ensure everyone had a great time. Based at their home in Gerrards Cross, we erected a Marquee to accommodate 200 guests. We carefully heras fenced specific areas for revellers to occupy and made sure all of the outside areas were well lit. Inside we installed a reveal curtain so that once the guests had arrived and enjoyed a welcome drink we were able to open the full space revealing the DJs in the club room. Full production was installed through MJB, this included star cloth lining, dancefloor, elevated DJ rig, moving heads and a hint of dry ice for dramatic effect. Two separate LED bars gave the marquee a party feel. Guests were treated to wood fired pizzas, sweet table and free non-alcoholic drinks for the duration. Behind the scenes there was lot more to it, 10 security staff were widely spread to ensure everyone

32 MARCH 2020

was having fun within the necessary boundaries. Every guest was searched, bags left at the front desk and any unnecessary contraband removed only to be returned to them on leaving. If their name wasn’t down they weren’t coming in! We made sure we had a list of everyone’s names, parents’ names and their contact details. Now being 16 is a distant memory for most of us at MJB but rest assured, times have changed. These young adults will push the boundaries in every way thinkable. We accept that and are firm believers that with all the pressures put upon this age group, they should be able to have fun and enjoy themselves away from the usual constraints of home and school, that said, we must ensure their safety and enforce rules where necessary. We will always try to remain in the background but if things escalate, we are calm and confident in our measured responses. There were certainly some stories from the night but the event went brilliantly, with a very happy Birthday girl and a relieved Mum and Dad. Having organised over 30 parties specifically for 16-18 year olds in the last 2 years; we are pleased to offer our advice to anyone considering such an event…Just make sure you’re sitting down! www.mjb-entertainment.com

“Our client wanted an occasion to mark her turning 16 and we were delighted to help”

GLAMOROUS PRIVATE PARTIES

PARTY PLANNING BY THE EXPERTS

OUT & ABOUT

Considering children upon Separation

hen parents separate, the most central consideration for them is how best to support their children through that difficult time and parent together in the future. The effects of separation upon children vary significantly; every child is an individual who will experience different reactions to similar situations. It can be difficult for parents to predict how their own children will respond should their relationship come to an end. Often, there is not one emotion experienced by a child, but a range of emotions and feelings which can differ significantly from that experienced by either parent. A previous poll by Resolution, the largest membership organisation for family justice professionals in England and Wales, has shown that children want greater involvement in the decisions made during the divorce process, with a significant number indicating that they did not know what was happening during their parents separation and that they did not have a say as to which parent they should live with. Based on their findings, Resolution put together a list of three actions that a parent may choose to ensure their child’s welfare is put first: • Explain to their child what is happening; • Involve them in decision making; and • Be honest about what is happening. Co-parenting is also an important part of supporting children through a separation or divorce and beyond. However, whilst many parents come across the term ‘co-parenting’ when seeking guidance, it is not always clear what this means. In its simplest form, co-parenting means the shared duties of raising a child and central to this principle is putting children’s needs first. 34 MARCH 2020

Effective co-parenting is not always immediate; parental emotions run high at the point of separation and it can take many years of hard work to create a co-parenting framework. However, many are willing to put in this effort and often, it is achievable.

“Co-parenting is also an important part of supporting children through a separation or divorce and beyond” Emma McMorrow

But is co-parenting really achievable every time? High conflict situations can arise when parents are unable to agree on their respective roles and the child care arrangements. When such situations arise, maintaining a close parenting relationship that allows shared decisions to be made, can seem impossible. In such circumstances, there are steps that parents can take to reduce the impact potential conflict has on the children. This is known as ‘parallel parenting’. This type of arrangement sees separated parents aiming to achieve a form of coparenting by means of disengaging from each other and having limited direct contact, whilst remaining fully connected to their children. Usually, the way this plays out on a day to day basis is that parents still agree on critical decisions regarding their child’s upbringing, but each make their own decisions as to day-to-day parenting when the children spend time with them. Although parallel parenting is not a panacea for high conflict relationships, it can help shield children from direct parental conflict.

THE DETAILS Royds Withy King is a City law firm with a local presence. Our Family team is based in Buckinghamshire and the Home Counties as are many of our clients. Contact specialist Emma McMorrow for advice on separation and divorce. Tel: 0207 129 7915 or email: family.enquiries @roydswithyking.com

OUT & ABOUT

Beacon Estate Agentsâ€™ top tips for a stress-free house sale

Preparing to Sell Your Home The process of selling your property can be a long and complicated process, it can also be stressful and you can feel a little helpless as you wait for things to happen. Everything hinges on getting the best price for your property from the right buyer at the right time. While much of this is down to the negotiating skills of your estate agent, there are a few things you can do to make sure you and your property stand out from the other properties for sale in Beaconsfield. Whether you are a first time home seller or an experienced homeowner, you need to take a look at our top tips for completing your transaction quickly.

Fail to Prepare; Prepare to Fail Research and preparation is key to a successful selling experience. One of the fundamental elements in getting your property to market is to make sure you choose the right estate agent to market your home. You will want to choose an agent who are local to your area, and know the benefits to living in the area but also, due to the nature of our region, your agent should have a national and international reach as we regularly welcome new families into the area due 36 MARCH 2020

to our proximity to travel networks, amenities and green spaces. Beacon Estate Agents is local to Beaconsfield and nearby towns of South Bucks, and importantly we have the National and International reach necessary to find your buyer fast. Once an offer has been received and accepted, make sure that all of your propertyâ€™s paperwork is in order and be prepared to answer any questions your estate agent asks, the chances are they have been asked by a potential buyer and getting an answer back to them quickly could mean the difference between a sale and not.

Presentation is Paramount Make sure that you do some research online to work out the best way to stage your home for photography. You want your home to look like a home; it needs to look like someone lives there whilst looking like a show home. You can find some great examples on Instagram and Pinterest. Remember, most potential buyers are searching for a property online which means your property needs to stand out. Read the Next Edition of LIFE Magazines for our top tips on how to prepare your property for a successful sale.

Get in touch When you instruct us to market your home we will be with you every step of the way, guiding you on how to make the best of your property. If you would like to speak to a member of our team about selling your property in Beaconsfield or one of the surrounding areas, make sure you give us a call on 01494 269428 or email us at sales@beacon-estates.com. www.beacon-estates.com. @beaconestates Beaconestates.

Building & ConstruCtion craftsmanship • integrity • quality • professional tac construction ltd offer a ‘turn-key’ Building solution, serving predominantly the chilterns and home counties undertaking all residential Building and interior projects.

new Build

renovations & extensions

fully comprehensive design and build solutions right from the initial scheme designs and plan layout drawings through to the construction phase and interior finishes. tac construction offer the full package with a project management service to all clients, with a wealth of dedicated knowledge and extensive experience within the industry.

A fully comprehensive service to any home owner planning to transform their home. tAC Construction have over 20 years’ experience in the building industry making your extension or renovation plans one of the best investments you can make. every quotation consists of a full cost breakdown enabling our clients to clearly see and understand what each aspect of the build will be costing.

Kitchens

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your design - our creation. Whether a modern contemporary design or a more traditional kitchen, our highly skilled craftsmen and tradesmen provide all services to create your complete bespoke kitchen to include plumbing, electrical work, carpentry and tiling.

tac construction pride ourselves in designing and installing bespoke bathrooms to suit your every need. tac has a dedicated team of highly skilled tradesmen specialising in all ranges of the most up to date and modern products for your complete install.

i n f o @ ta c c o n s t r u c t i o n . c o . u k • W W W. ta c c o n s t r u c t i o n . c o . u k 07825 041 980 • 01494 571 976

OUT & ABOUT

n February, the UK marked Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week. Many organisations, support agencies and B P Collins, come out to say that #itsnotok to be abused. As lawyers, we’ve seen many clients looking to separate from their partner after suffering domestic abuse. But this comes after months or even years of mistreatment. In fact, on average there will have been 35 assaults before a victim calls the police. Domestic abuse is, unfortunately, extremely prevalent. In the year ending March 2019, 1.6 million women experienced domestic abuse (ONS). According to ‘Living without Abuse’ domestic abuse will affect 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men in their lifetime. Domestic abuse also accounts for 16% of all violent crime*, however it is still this crime that is least likely to be reported to the police. These statistics are truly shocking. The latest definition of domestic violence and abuse from the Government states: “Any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are or have been intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality. This can encompass but is not limited to the following types of abuse: • psychological • physical • sexual • financial • emotional Controlling behaviour is: a range of acts designed to make a person subordinate and/or dependent by isolating them from sources of support, exploiting their resources and capacities for personal gain, depriving them of the means needed for independence, resistance and escape and regulating their everyday behaviour.

38 MARCH 2020

Divorce & domestic abuse “In the year ending March 2019, 1.6 million women experienced domestic abuse (ONS). According to ‘Living without Abuse’ domestic abuse will affect 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men in their lifetime”

Coercive behaviour is: an act or a pattern of acts of assault, threats, humiliation and intimidation or other abuse that is used to harm, punish, or frighten their victim.” It’s clear that the term domestic abuse covers a broad range of behaviours and does not always mean that there is physical abuse. However, there are common traits. We have advised clients who have often felt controlled by their abuser, who restricts contact with friends and family. Others have also said how difficult it is to relax when living with an abuser and feeling like they are walking on egg shells as they never know what behaviour will cause them to ”blow up”. Some clients are embarrassed to admit that they are the victims of domestic violence and sometimes telling their story to us is the first time they have been able to verbalise what is happening. The perception that domestic violence is something which affects women can make it harder for male victims to seek help.

What can you do? We completely understand that taking the first step to speak to a lawyer about suffering domestic abuse can be a very difficult one to take. It’s not uncommon that clients need to build up their confidence before they can take any definitive action, and we will talk through all your options. Often, an abusive partner can make completely unfounded threats in relation to children or finances with a view to discouraging their partner from taking steps to stop the abuse. We have experience in dealing with all of these issues and will help you to achieve the right outcome for you and your family. If you are experiencing domestic abuse, and want to know more about the support and options available to you, please contact Fran Hipperson on frances.hipperson@bpcollins. co.uk or call 01753 889995 for a confidential chat. *Source: Crime in England

OUT & ABOUT

The Oxfordshire

he quality of the setting is apparent from the moment you drive up the treelined driveway to WEDDING the magnificent stone pillared FAIR SUNDAY entrance of The Oxfordshire. 19 APRIL The landscaped grounds 11AM-3PM offer a romantic setting for a memorable occasion for you â€œThe landscaped and all your guests. Set in the grounds offer a romantic picturesque Oxfordshire countryside, the hotel is the ideal place for beautiful setting for a memorable pictures of your special day. occasionâ€? The grand marble entrance welcomes all guests before they enter one of the more intimate ceremony rooms. The changeable function rooms with panoramic views have an elegant modern design throughout with the hotel rooms owing to a contemporary interpretation of a traditional English Country House. Each of the 46 executive

40 MARCH 2020

hotel rooms are decorated to an exquisite standard, with the 4 luxurious suites individually designed. The balcony and patio areas give your guests a great view of the famous championship golf course and surrounding Oxfordshire countryside. The balcony area also provides a great opportunity for the tossing of the flower bouquet or potential firework display. With planning services, outstanding hospitality and world-class leisure facilities, the Oxfordshire golf, hotel & spa provides a superb wedding venue for the bride & groom and guests alike. Where do ceremonies take place? • The Oxford Suite – A very intimate room – 80 people • The Fairways Suite – Our more traditional rectangular room – 100 people Where do receptions take place? • The Oxford Suite – A very intimate room – 50 people • The Fairways Suite – Our more traditional rectangular room – 80 people • The Oaks Suite - This room offers panoramic views of the countryside – 110 people • The Fairway & Oaks Suite – Our two main rooms joined together – 200 people Maximum capacities for • Ceremony: 100 • Wedding breakfast: 120 • Reception: 200 Complete Wedding Package from £3,999 (Based on 60 guests) • Glass of Bucks Fizz on arrival • Three course wedding breakfast • Coffee & Petit Fours • Half bottle of house wine per person • Glass of prosecco for the toast • Room hire • Chair covers & sashes • DJ & dancefloor • Personalised table plan and menu cards • Menu tasting for the happy couple • A suite for the happy couple for the evening of the wedding • Wedding coordinator for the day • Preferred accommodation rates

W edding Fair – Sunday 19th April 11am-3pm Join us for our annual Wedding Fair on Sunday 19th April from 11am-3pm where we will be welcoming a host of local suppliers to showcase their services. Already confirmed are a selection of florists, photographers, videographers, hair & makeup artists, cake makers, and bridal wear companies. To confirm your place on the day or to showcase as a supplier, simply email our team at weddings@theoxfordshire.com.

MARCH 2020 41

OUT & ABOUT

Matrimonial & family law Navigating the right choices for you and your family Divorce, separation or relationship breakdown can be a challenging and difficult time for you and your family when you may be worried about the impact on your children, your emotional wellbeing as well as your finances. Whilst there are the traditional legal routes to take when it comes to separation, there are also more conciliatory, out of court options available which may help you to resolve your differences. Machins Solicitors have an experienced family law team offering both the traditional routes as well as out of court options which can help reduce the stress of family breakdown.

Mandip Bhachu

This is a voluntary and confidential process for the child with the mediator reporting back only the information to the parents that the child has consented to. Using a specialist mediator in the early stages of mediation can save time and costs as it gives parents the definitive voice of the child avoiding uncertainty and the need for court proceedings.

COLLABORATIVE LAW

MEDIATION Mediation is a process to help you resolve your family differences without going to court. There is often confusion about the term mediation which is sometimes mistaken for counselling. Mediation is not about reconciliation but about moving forward after breakdown. Mediation enables you to settle disputes whether or not you are legally represented at any time. It is a voluntary, confidential and an impartial service which provides a safe, neutral environment for you to communicate. The role of the mediator is to help you communicate and achieve practical solutions. Family mediation will assist you and/or other family members reach solutions in all areas of relationship breakdown be it divorce, separation, property, financial and children matters. The benefits of mediation: • Confidential and non-judgemental • Minimises distress and argument through challenging times. • Enables you to make decisions together taking into account your individual needs. • Flexible timetabling enabling a much quicker and cheaper resolution. • Assists you to adapt through to a different future. • Supports future communication.

CHILD INCLUSIVE MEDIATION

Richard Phillips

42 MARCH 2020

Often in divorce or separation it is difficult to understand the wishes and feelings of the children particularly if parents have differing views or children are unwilling to disclose how they feel. A specialist mediator trained to consult children directly within the mediation process can, if the mediator feels it is appropriate and both parents consent, be used to consider the wishes and feelings of a child of appropriate age of parents who are already in the mediation process.

Where mediation is not appropriate, or where you want your legal adviser with you during the process, collaborative law could be an option. In this process both parties instruct collaboratively trained lawyers and sign an agreement not to issue court proceedings. This allows you to achieve a settlement that best meets your needs and those of any children removing the ‘fight and win’ court room setting. The process is conducted by four way meetings where both you and your collaborative lawyers would work on an agreed agenda. The benefits of collaborative law • Flexible timetabling resulting in a quicker and cheaper resolution. • The benefit of legal advice throughout the process. • Interdisciplinary approach – building expert advice where required in the process. • Supports future communication and enables you to part on conciliatory terms. • Financial agreement reached in divorce can be endorsed into a court order. • The ultimate decision-making process lies with you. Making the right choice for you is important and our family law team are happy to help identify the most suitable option for you. Please contact Richard Phillips on richard. phillips@machins.co.uk or Mandip Bhachu on mandip.bhachu@machins.co.uk if you would like more information about the issues raised in this article or any aspects of family law. This article is written for general information only and should not be relied on without specific advice.

OUT & ABOUT

Bradley, 30 Lambridge Wood Road On the market with Philip Booth Esq

iscreet and exclusive, this residential road is hidden from view, just off the Fairmile, and curves smoothly towards a large area of woodland bordering the National Trust land of Greys Court. Lambridge Wood Road is broadly exempt from Henley’s burgeoning traffic issues, because it is a quiet nothrough road ending abruptly at the edge of the woods. To say this residential address is “desirable” or “highly sought-after” is something of an understatement – it has an exclusive but cheerful air about it, and all the houses are good-looking and comfortably spread out with plenty of space between them. The road is rich with neatly manicured hedges and some lawns so big they are almost fields, with bulbous firs and ancient pine trees towering overhead, cocooning its residents in a leafy oasis of calm. Traditional country homes sit alongside ultra-modern properties, behind tall fences and up driveways lit with tiny lanterns. Bradley on Lambridge Wood Road is a fivebedroom house on the market with Philip Booth Esq, with a guide price of £2,000,000. The front door is up a few steps and under a covered porch. It leads into a big entrance hall, with a storage cupboard under the stairs and a cloakroom on one side. There is a nice quiet study at the front of the house, with an array of bookshelves and drawers fitted by local cabinet-maker Ian Desmond. There are four reception rooms on the ground floor. The biggest of them, the living room, stretches from the front to the back of the house and has windows on all three sides. There is a separate family room in between the living room and the kitchen, which could potentially be knocked-through to create a bigger open-plan kitchen / family room. The kitchen itself is fitted with white Shakerstyle kitchen cabinets, mottled black worktops and a Bosch electric oven and ceramic hob, and there is space for a breakfast table and chairs. The dining room is next to the kitchen, and there is a useful utility room in between the two. The galleried upstairs landing has space for a sofa – perhaps a cosy spot to snuggle up for a bedtime story with the children, or somewhere to sit and wait while your

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other half gets ready for a night out. The master bedroom is fitted with handsome wooden floor-to-ceiling wardrobes, and a fully tiled en suite bathroom with both a bath and a shower. The four other bedrooms are all of a good size and have fitted wardrobes, and there is a family bathroom on the first floor too. The gently sloping and stepped back garden is stocked with well-established trees, colourful plants and a vegetable garden – there is a large patio outside the living room, accessible through a set of sliding doors. At the top of the back garden there is a summer house and another small patio, where you can sit and enjoy views of the treetops and unspoilt countryside all around. There is a garden store room and an enclosed back lobby leading into the kitchen – a handy place for leaving wet umbrellas or removing muddy boots after a woodland dog walk. At the front of the house, the driveway is behind a set of gates. There is plenty of parking space here and also a detached double garage with light and power. The garage could potentially be converted into annexe accommodation, subject to the usual planning permission rules. There is a patio at the front of the house and a cute wooden gazebo in one corner of the front garden – the perfect place for sitting in the shade on a summer’s day, or for taking shelter while outside gardening on a showery day. Estate agent Philip Booth said: “Bradley is tucked away on one of Henley’s most prestigious roads, on a large plot approaching three quarters of an acre, with woodland walks on the doorstep and within walking distance of Henley. “It is a no-through road and borders ancient woodland, making this a safe place for children to play and teenagers to explore, and it is also a great area for dog walking.” Lambridge Wood Road is about a mile away from the centre of Henley, along the A4130 Fairmile towards Bix and the Assendons.

At a glance BRADLEY, 30 LAMBRIDGE WOOD ROAD Bedrooms: five Bathrooms: two Receptions: four Gross internal area: 2,687 sq ft, 249 sq m Guide price: £2,000,000 Agent: Philip Booth Esq

The details The homes here come on to the market quite infrequently. For more information about this property, or to arrange a viewing, call Philip Booth Esq on (01491) 635343 or 07795 422284.

Rotherfield Greys, Henley £1,250,000 A delightful 5 bedroom detached character home, situated in a tucked away location within a plot of approx 0.3 acres and having views over open countryside. Sitting room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, a home office/annexe, off road car parking and a garage. EPC - E

Henley Town Centre £825,000 A spacious two bedroom apartment, located on the first floor of this highly desirable residential development and benefitting from high ceilings, large windows and a balcony. The apartment has two covered allocated car parking spaces and is located just a short walk from Henley railway station. EPC - C

Henley-on-Thames £1,875,000 Situated just a short walk from the town square, this timber framed house is steeped in history and has kept many of its historic features such as oak beams and doors, lattice windows, inglenooks with bread ovens. Whilst giving flexible accommodation, a garage and easy access to the private gardens.

Henley-on-Thames £1,650,000 Apple Ash is an elegant character home, which has been opulently refurbished and extended by the present owners. Period features include fireplaces, dado rails and high ceilings with ornate ceiling roses. Modern features include a fabulous orangery with under floor heating. EPC - D

OUT & ABOUT

The first residents have moved into their homes at a new development in Midhurst

he first residents have now moved into the houses built by Metis Homes at the King Edward VII Estate in Midhurst, West Sussex. The award-winning developer has built a boutique collection of nineteen houses named after classic British royal names, all nestled within a 165-acre woodland Estate which combines contemporary living with luxurious on-site facilities such as a gym, spa style swimming pool and reading room - all surrounded by miles of beautiful, undulating West Sussex countryside. Since its initial launch, Metis Homes has already secured seven sales, with the first residents moving in in September 2019. Downsizing from West Horsley, Shelagh Butcher bought one of the houses at Edmund Villas having fallen in love with Midhurst after visiting a local polo match. Working from home, Shelagh has converted the accommodation above the garage into her office, and lives with her daughter and rescue dog, Jack. Shelagh said: “The setting of King Edward VII is truly unique… located in the heart of the countryside it feels like we are in the middle of nowhere, yet we can get into London, Chichester and Midhurst easily. You can barely see the houses within the grounds as we’re nestled within pretty woodland, and when I walk out of my front door I’m immediately looking out onto open green space. “We have so many things on our doorstep within the Estate to enjoy too and as a dog friendly

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place there are so many walks we can choose from because we are right on the edge of the National Trust. Being able to work from home is a luxury, and with lots of people already living here, there is a good community feel. These are all big selling points for me.” Adam O’Brien, Managing Director at Metis Homes added: “Having the first set of customers move into our part of the overall development at the King Edward VII Estate is not just an exciting time for us, but also for our buyers and the many residents already living in other sections of the Estate.” Previously the site of a tuberculosis sanatorium which was founded by King Edward VII at the beginning of the 20th Century, this exquisite location offers buyers a choice of three, four and five bedroom houses – some with Help to Buy – with prices starting from £545,000. To arrange a viewing of the furnished show home, visit www.metishomes.co.uk or call 01962 383038.

“The award-winning developer has built a boutique collection of nineteen houses named after classic British royal names”

OUT & ABOUT

Where Kings & Queens Reside Celebrate Mother’s Day in a spectacular former royal palace

Image: Modern Vintage Weddings

any special dietary requirements. Local farms have supplied the Ashridge kitchens with seasonal produce for centuries, and we take care to source all our ingredients from sustainable suppliers. Afternoon tea will be served in our impressive heritage function space where you will be able to admire the beautiful interiors and enjoy the incredible outlook over the grounds and gardens. If you are feeling creative why not join in on our optional floristry workshop led by the talented Rebecca Marsala of Rebecca Marsala Flowers where you will spend your time creating a beautiful arrangement to take home. Make the most of your visit to Ashridge House; you and your guests will have the chance after your afternoon tea to explore the stunning grounds and gardens, here you will be able to admire the impressive oak tree planted by Queen Victoria in 1823. Traditional afternoon tea at Ashridge House is £29.50 per person, or £39.50 including a glass of fizz. A supplement will apply for the optional floristry workshop; for more information or to book your table please visit the upcoming events page on: www.ashridgehouse.org.uk or call our friendly team on 01442 841027. Interesting fact: Ashridge served as inspiration for the design of the moveable staircase at Hogwarts, although the Harry Potter movies were eventually filmed at a different location, the moveable staircase in the films are based upon the stairs at Ashridge House!

ajestically placed in 190 acres of private gardens in Berkhamsted, Ashridge House is a hidden gem in the Hertfordshire countryside, the perfect setting for a special Mothering Sunday celebration! Our spectacular neo-Gothic country mansion has a fascinating history spanning 730 years; in 1283 Ashridge was first established as a monastery for the order of the College of Bonhommes. In 1539, with the dissolution of the monasteries, King Henry VIII acquired Ashridge as a country residence later bequeathing it to his daughter and future Queen, Elizabeth. Following Elizabeth’s death in 1603 Ashridge became privately owned by the Bridgewater family who continued to live there through to the end of the First World War. During both world wars, Ashridge served as a convalescence home for invalid soldiers until 1949 when it in turn became a finishing school for young ladies. Former guests at Ashridge House include Queen Victoria and Winston Churchill, and we now welcome you to Ashridge House to celebrate Mothering Sunday on 22nd March 2020 between 2-4pm for an elegant afternoon tea and optional floristry workshop. Our passion for dining has earned Ashridge House an unrivalled reputation for using the finest local produce and we are able to cater for

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For Mothering Sunday, our talented Chef has created a special afternoon tea menu: A selection of finger sandwiches, to include: Smoked salmon, cream cheese and chive on granary Ham and aged cheddar, honey mustard Cucumber with mint and cream fraiche Egg mayonnaise and cress on white bloomer Warm raisin and plain scones served with strawberry conserve and Cornish clotted cream

Image: Zobo London

A selection of delicate pastries to include: Lemon and elderflower meringue tart Chocolate and banana opera cake Strawberry and white chocolate Craquelins A selection of fine teas & artisan coffee

Ashridge House

22nd March 2020 2-4pm Enjoy an elegant afternoon tea with an optional floristry workshop

Ashridge House, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire HP4 1NS | 01442 841027 | ashridgehouse.org.uk

FEATURE

INTERVIEW: Michelin starred chef Alain Ducasse T

French chef Alain Ducasse is something of a legend - but as Ella Walker finds out, at its heart, his mission is a simple one.

he word ‘Provence’ effortlessly conjures up a sense of romance. Woodsmoke and the scent of garlic; huge, regimented fields of purple lavender; bottles of throat-catching olive oil, and bubbling pans of tomato-heavy chicken stew. Chef Alain Ducasse - although born in Orthez in the south-west of France - knows the cuisine of the region better than most. And what he loves about it, he says, is its “simplicity and spontaneity”. “As in any culinary tradition, Provencal cuisine reflects a terroir,” explains the 63-year-old restaurateur over email (his English is not quite fluent), “the nature and the culture of people living there. Yet it does it with probably a higher degree [than many other places] - with a certain flair. “Provencal cuisine genuinely expresses the soul of the country. The tastes of the local produce is more intense, the recipes are altogether humble and supremely elegant, the recipes, transmitted [through history, largely] by women, are fantastically diverse.”

The chickpea, he continues, “may well embody this spirit of Provencal cuisine: a very humble product which can be magnified by the right recipe. Many dishes are made with chickpeas or chickpea flour, for instance the socca, a delicious speciality of Nice.” A thin, pancake or crepe, socca is made using only chickpea flour and water, with a little seasoning; you can’t get much simpler. Unless perhaps you’re cooking red mullet on Provence’s Mediterranean sea shore. “The recipe?” questions Ducasse. “Do nothing! Grill it gently, without scaling or cleaning it!” Of course, Ducasse, who became the world’s first chef to own restaurants carrying three Michelin stars in three cities (New York, Paris, London), does somewhat elevate Provencal cooking, particularly at his restaurant and inn, Hostellerie de l’Abbaye de la 50 MARCH 2020

Celle, which has just celebrated its 20th anniversary. “It’s a love story,” says Ducasse of the l’Abbaye. “When I discovered it, in 1999, I instantly felt in love with the garden and its century-old chestnut trees and the harmony of its 18th century architecture. I immediately thought about creating a restaurant there with a few rooms.” An hour’s drive from Marseille (someone from the hotel is often able to collect you from the airport in an electric car), along the north curve of the SaintBaume mountain ridge, the l’Abbaye is pale yellow, fringed with olive-green shutters, and adjoins a 12th century Benedictine Romanesque abbey.

“Proposing dishes with more vegetables and cereals and less meat is very important”

Home to just 10 rooms, a Michelin-starred restaurant, as well as a conservation vineyard and a kitchen garden you could easily eat your way through if left to your own devices, it’s a pretty delicious place to spend a weekend. At the core of its ethos and menu - as with Ducasse’s wider businesses - is an awareness of sustainability and seasonality. “Proposing dishes with more vegetables and cereals and less meat is very important,” notes Ducasse. “In parallel, we are very demanding of our producers. They have to work according to sensible environmental principles, respecting seasonality.” At the dawn of a new decade, looking forward to l’Abbaye’s next 20 years, Ducasse is not filled with new resolutions as such, instead, he stands by “the resolutions I make to myself every morning: to create something new for my contemporaries.” Ducasse was raised on a farm, before becoming an apprentice chef aged 16 and going on to train under legendary chef Roger Verge. He went on to hold more than 20 Michelin stars throughout his career and is now not just a man, but an entire culinary enterprise, with restaurants, cookery schools and consulting positions in his name. It all comes back Ducasse’s family farm though. “I remember my grandmother asking me to go to the kitchen garden and pick ripe vegetables. I remember the drops of white juice dripping from the lettuce stalk when cutting it,” he recalls. “I remember the smell and taste of the roast chicken my grandmother was preparing every Sunday for the whole family. I remember the chocolate cake I dared to make for Christmas when I was 12.” Of his career achievements though, he says his most significant is “the creation of naturalite (naturalness). This is a very radical and innovative approach we developed at my Hotel Plaza Athenee, in Paris. No meat - just vegetables, cereals and fish from sustainable sources.” It is “a thought-provoking cuisine in a prestigious venue; a demanding cuisine in a glamorous three Michelin-star restaurant”, he says. You might think it would be a tricky proposition,

trying to keep a handle on his many restaurants while retaining the essence of each, like at l’Abbaye. But Ducasse explains that each focuses on a single idea - to offer people “a moment of pure happiness”. L’Hostellerie de l’Abbaye de la Celle offers superior double rooms from €239 per night based on two sharing. Contact (0)4 98 051 414/ contact@abbaye-celle.com. For more information, see abbaye-celle.com/en.

“Ducasse was raised on a farm, before becoming an apprentice chef aged 16 and going on to train under legendary chef Roger Verge”

MARCH 2020 51

OUT & ABOUT

52 MARCH 2020

OUT & ABOUT

Winter market buoyancy defies expectations at Royal Connaught Park

ny expectations of winter doldrums in the property market have been dashed in the aftermath of December’s election, as scores of interested purchasers have visited the newly-available homes at Grade II listed, Royal Connaught Park in Bushey. The electoral strength of the new government and confidence that it will serve a full term has impacted directly on sales. Purchasers range from younger ‘professional’ families to older retired downsizers as well as those seeking a second home. Many buyers are seeking secure properties that can be ‘locked up and left’, giving them the flexibility to live wherever their work takes them.

“Living at Royal Connaught Park feels as it would if you were enjoying your own private manor house or Oxbridge College” Fear of missing out (FOMO) seems to be a factor too; no surprise given the site’s extensive transformation into one of Hertfordshire’s premier addresses, from firstly the former Royal Masonic School for Boys, and then the international American University, which brought it many international friends. The work by Homes develops more newly-built homes for buyers in the residential parkland community with its dignified and historic atmosphere. Continued sales success means that the exciting Nova Collection of homes includes Yale and Harvard Houses. This collection of apartments, starting with one-bedroom homes with large terraces from £500,000 and extending up to four-bedroom duplex apartments at £1.2m with balconies and roof-top terraces and delightful views over the parkland, gives a great choice of price and space with a fresh, contemporary take on lifestyle. Living at Royal Connaught Park feels as it would 54 MARCH 2020

if you were enjoying your own private manor house or Oxbridge College. You can sense the reassurance of a gated development with 24-hour security personnel, CCTV and video entry systems, while all the homes benefit from a range of wellappointed amenities neatly integrated into the refurbished buildings; there is a private gym, sauna, swimming pool, and tennis courts. A privatelychauffered courtesy coach provides nearly instant access to and from local railway stations and to shopping centres such as the billion-poundrefurbished Intu Watford. All the apartments in the Nova Collection have terraces or balconies and of course you can roam within 100 acres of private parkland too. So, your active, outdoor lifestyle is assured both on site and nearby with facilities such as The Grove renowned for its Championship golf course and luxurious spa. Both Yale and Harvard House, as well as properties to be released later in the Spring, benefit from direct lift access down to Royal Connaught Park’s extensive underground car park. The lift surfaces directly into the buildings’ communal areas almost straight outside individual apartments, providing maximum convenience with no damp shopping on wet days. The interior layout and specification of apartments simply makes no compromise on style, technology and high-quality floor and tile finishes. Attention to detail is obvious, from underfloor heating to bathroom fittings and kitchen choice. As well as the newly-built homes in the Nova Collection, there are also just two properties still available for sale in the refurbished, ‘recreated’ historic buildings; one town house and a threebedroom gallery apartment. The site is a wonderful ‘green lung’ in Bushey, yet is well-located, reaching Central London (fast to Euston station) in just 18 mins, and with the thriving centres of Bushey, Radlett and St Albans nearby. Quick and easy road links close by include the M25, M1 and M40 and Heathrow and Luton airports are easily accessible.

THE DETAILS For further information on properties for sale in The Nova Collection at ROYAL CONNAUGHT PARK, please contact the sales office on 01923 222292, email info@thecomergroup.com.

OUT & ABOUT

Chef Laurie Gear

March recipe & kitchen news

ith the Mad March winds, it hard to think of spring and warmer days which should be just around the corner. Springtime brings the first of the wild garlic to our hedgerows and

garden edges and this month’s recipe incorporates its aromatic leaves into the classic parsley, garlic, lemon and oil mix which is known as gremolata, to accompany lightly curried monkfish and chickpeas a great combination!

RECIPE: Curried Monkfish with Chickpeas, Kale and Wild Garlic Gremolata Ingredients

Springtime Lunch Tasting Offer

Serves 4 • 2 medium monkfish tails around 750 g each skinned and trimmed and split into 4 loins cutting either side of the bone • 1 tbs medium curry powder • 3 tbs plain flour • 1 bunch kale • 200g cooked or canned chickpeas • A knob of butter • 1 tbsp olive oil • Salt and pepper For the gremolata • 200 g washed young small wild garlic leaves 100g flat leaf parsley • 1 clove chopped garlic • Grated zest 1 lemon • 4 tbs olive oil • Salt and pepper

Method

To celebrate the anticipation of Spring we invite LE readers to join us for - a complimentary glass of our aromatic Spring Cocktail made with Campari and finished with Prosecco to accompany our Five Course Lunch Tasting Menu

chef’s tip

off any excess 1. Pre heat oven 180 c gas 4 4. Pick the kale - cook until tender. Start by making the gremolata 5. Sear the monkfish with the oil in a hot 1. Blitz the garlic leaf, parsley, garlic pan until golden brown. Thick loin of cod or skate and lemon zest in a processor 6. Place in the oven to finish for around wing work equally with this for about 1 minute then slowly 8 minutes then rest for a further 5 mins recipe pour in the olive oil. Season to 7. Meanwhile in the empty fish pan mix taste the chickpeas and kale on the stove top 2. Mix the flour with curry powder and 8. Turn up the heat and add the gremolata a pinch salt 9. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and serve 3. Toss the monkfish loins in the flour shaking on warm plates with your monkfish loin

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This fabulous Tasting Lunch Offer is available from Tuesday to Friday until the end of March 2020 for just £40.00 per person - optional wine flight £26.00 additional sixth course for an extra £6.00 (Maximum of 6 guests per reservation) ***please, mention ‘lunch tasting offer’ when making your reservation*** The Artichoke Restaurant 9 Market Square Old Amersham Tel: 01494 726611 www.artichokerestaurant.co.uk

F I N E

E N G L I S H

B U T C H E R S

Our passion is quality meats & service

ORDER EARLY FOR EASTER

So why use a traditional butcher instead of a supermarket? Richard explains why customers repeatedly use RS Troutt & Co. â€œCustomers like to select their meat and to have it butchered in front of them. We can give them EXACTLY what they want from single portion to large joint for that special occasionâ€?

28 day dry aged beef | free range pork and English lamb free range additive free chickens home-made sausages and burgers | home cured dry aged bacon fresh home cooked meals | selection of cheeses We are now serving hot and cold food all day. Aberdeen House, Hazlemere Crossroads, Hazlemere HP15 7LG Tel 01494 711803 Tudor House, High Street, West Wycombe HP14 3AE

www.rstrouttbutchers.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

Opening date and new images revealed of the world’s first

duplo coaster at the ® legoland windsor resort ®

he LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort has today revealed it will launch the world’s first DUPLO rollercoaster in the bigger and better than ever DUPLO® Valley on Saturday 14 March 2020*. To celebrate, the theme park has released first look artist impressions of the land with details of what families can look forward to in the pre-schooler paradise, plus ways to visit for less in 2020 with the new Toddler Pass. Bigger and better for 2020, the colourful toddler wonderland of DUPLO Valley will welcome a new show and play area alongside the world’s first DUPLO rollercoaster. A favourite with little ones, outdoor play area Brickville will become DUPLO® Playtown, complete with a brand new rocket play structure. Budding astronauts can enjoy the interactive play panels, rope climbs and slides and for those who reach the top there’s a button with “3, 2, 1 blast off!” countdown. Families can also take to the skies at the new look DUPLO Valley Airport with three new coloured helicopters for little pilots to choose from. At the popular DUPLO Puppet Theatre, there’s a brand-new puppet show for families to watch throughout the day. The Frog Prince, will tell the tale of Princess Money-Plenty who loses her Golden Ball in the depths of a murky pond; ruled by an Evil Toad, before she’s saved by the heroics

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“Bigger and better for 2020, the colourful toddler wonderland of DUPLO Valley will welcome a new show and play area alongside the world’s first DUPLO rollercoaster. A favourite with little ones, outdoor play area Brickville will become DUPLO® Playtown, complete with a brand new rocket play structure”

of LEGOLAND’s very own 007 - James Pond. The Frog Prince joins the puppet show line up alongside the much loved Goldilocks and the Three Bears retold with a modern and comedic LEGOLAND twist. That’s not all, in the heart of DUPLO Valley the world’s first DUPLO rollercoaster, the DUPLO Dino Coaster - designed for children aged 2-5yrs old**- will see little ones hop aboard the dino themed carriage and hold on tight as they soar around supersized DUPLO dinosaur models, 18 times bigger than if you were to build them at home. Set amongst a menagerie of palm trees, this dinosaur themed delight will be the perfect first rollercoaster experience for little ones and even grown-ups too. The land will also welcome new supersized DUPLO models, providing the perfect picture opportunities for families looking to create lasting memories of their visit. Explorers will need to keep their eyes peeled for the DUPLO Whale, Dino, Tractor and more.

NEW TODDLER PASS To celebrate the bigger and better DUPLO Valley, the Resort has launched an all-new LEGOLAND Adult and Toddler Annual Pass. For £49, a toddler and their grown up can visit the theme park during term time (Monday-Friday) and discover the preschool land, enjoying discounts of 10% in the shops and 20% across restaurants - whilst the big kids are still at school. A pre-schooler paradise, DUPLO Valley is also home to the Resort’s awesome outdoor water play areas; Splash Safari and Drench Towers, alongside a host of family rides, designed firmly with little ones in mind. From the gentle riverboat Fairy Tale Brook ride – where fairy tales from The Three Little Pigs and Sleeping Beauty come to life in LEGO bricks, to the DUPLO® Train. Children under 0.9 metres get FREE entry to the LEGOLAND Windsor Resort all year round and day tickets are from £29 per person when booked online 1+ day in advance at www.legoland.co.uk. Families can book a LEGOLAND short break at the unique LEGOLAND Hotel and enjoy the bigger and better DUPLO Valley with stays from £99.25pp at www.legolandholidays.co.uk.

GOLF&GUIDE OUT ABOUT

Burnham Beeches Golf Club

Burnham Beeches is an England Golf Championship venue and and is the oldest club in Buckinghamshire.

urnham Beeches is an England Golf Championship venue and offers members and visitors a memorable golf experience, together with a welcoming atmosphere in the club house. The course was originally designed by JH Taylor but has been adapted over the years to cater for the modern game and player and at 6,449 yards off the back tees is the perfect length for all levels of golfer. With over 128 years of history the course benefits from having a large number of mature trees which perfectly frame the holes. Although slightly undulating it is not a hard walking course and the short distances from greens to tees adds to the enjoyment of playing the course. The Club’s success is built on its twin policies of putting members first and continuous investment in its facilities and services. The beautiful course sits on the edge of the ancient Burnham Beeches woodland and offers peace and tranquillity amid all the hustle and bustle of being so close to London. The course is looked after by an award winning green-keeping team that won the Championship Green-keeping Performance of the Year for preparing and maintaining the course for the English Senior Women’s Amateur Championship in 2016. The Club has recently completed the refurbishment and upgrade of both the lounge, which provides an attractive, comfortable and functional space and the Ladies showers which have been redesigned to provide more space and facilities. The Club never stands still and those discerning golfers looking to play at a true Members course

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should look no further than Burnham Beeches. The Club has a limited number of Full memberships available for those looking for a friendly, quality golfing experience. Visitor usage is strictly controlled so that Members can enjoy playing their course with no need to book tee times. The Club has discounts for Family Membership and under 30s and currently has a limited availability for Trial Memberships. Burnham Beeches Golf Club Green Lane, Burnham, Buckinghamshire, SL1 5EG. T: 01628 661448 E: clivebailey@bbgc.co.uk W: www.bbgc.co.uk

“The Club’s success is built on its twin policies of putting members first and continuous investment in its facilities and services”

128 years of quality and tradition

 A welcoming Members’ Club – owned and run by its Members.

 Easy course access – no tee booking system, Members can just turn up and play.

 Full calendar of competitions, Ladies, Gents, Mixed, Club and Junior matches.

 Large active Ladies’ section welcoming new joiners of all abilities.

 Dedicated practice areas and driving range with PGA coaching staff.

 Family membership discounts.  Trial Membership Scheme available.  Ladies Taster and Academy also available.

OUT & ABOUT

Getting your finances in order A little thought goes a long way As the end of the financial year approaches, this is the time to make sure you have done everything you can to mitigate the impact of tax and capitalise on tax relief… small steps, perhaps, but ones which may make a real difference to the financial security of you and your family.

Use your ISA allowance The annual ISA allowance of £20,000 is a valuable opportunity to shelter money from any further liability to Income Tax or Capital Gains Tax. It’s worth bearing in mind that if you had taken full advantage of the scheme each year, you could by now have invested nearly £230,000 if you’d maximised your ISA every year since their introduction in 1999.

Don’t forget the children You can also save up to £4,368 this year in a Junior ISA for each of your children or grandchildren, up to the age of 18. This is an ideal opportunity for anyone wishing to pass on wealth intact to the next generation while minimising the potential impact of Inheritance Tax.

Top up pension contributions Most taxpayers get tax relief on pension contributions of up to £40,000 (or up to 100% of their earnings if less) each tax year. Make sure you use as much of this allowance as you can; you can also use up any unused allowance dating back to the 2016/17 tax year (subject to earnings). If you are a higher earner, a pension contribution can bring your taxable income back down to £100,000 and you can regain all of your personal allowance. Pension contributions can also help bring your income level below the additional rate tax band, which starts at £150,000 of taxable income, or avoid losing Child Benefit, which is gradually removed if one parent in the household earns more than £50,000.

Reducing Income Tax and Capital Gains Tax Another handy allowance which should be fully utilised by 5 April is the Dividend Allowance. This enables all taxpayers to enjoy tax-free dividends of up to £2,000 a year from any stocks and shares held outside ISAs or pensions. Crystallising gains up to the Capital Gains Tax allowance of £12,000 will help you reduce potentially higher future tax bills. Consider whether it is worthwhile disposing of lossmaking capital assets as well. If 62 MARCH 2020

you think you are likely to be liable to higher taxation, it may make sense to take gains over two years or transfer assets to a spouse or partner.

Planning for Inheritance Tax Thinking about this now can make a significant difference to those you might like to help in future. You can gift up to £3,000 a year and make an unlimited number of small gifts each year of £250 free from Inheritance Tax (IHT). You can also carry forward any unused allowance from the previous tax year, which means couples could pass on up to £12,000 that would be outside their estate immediately. All this must be done by 5 April; if you would like to give away more than this, you must live for a further seven years for it to be free of IHT.

In a nutshell It may be true, as the proverb says, that nothing is certain but death and taxes, but we at least have the option of planning for both of them. This is an increasingly complex area and if I can help with any of the above, please contact me for a no obligation review meeting. 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. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives. Mandy Rodgers DIP PFS, mandy.rodgers@sjpp.co.uk, www.mandyrodgers.co.uk, 07824 408990

Six steps before 5 April 1. Maximise annual allowances for ISAs and Junior ISAs 2. Review existing ISA portfolios 3. Top up pension contributions up to your annual allowance 4. Make the most of your Dividend Allowance 5. Maximise Capital Gains Tax allowances 6. Maximise IHT gifting allowances 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. An investment in equities (funds) does not provide the security of capital associated with a Cash ISA or a deposit account with a bank or building society. The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time and are generally dependent on individual circumstances. External statistics sources: HMRC, Individual Savings Account (ISA) statistics, April 2019 & Moneyfacts, January 2020

! • Contemporary and classic Italian food from our Italian Chef

• Wines from Italy and around the world • Lounge area to relax, casual dining area, stylish and romantic dining room, selection of cocktails & champagnes from the bar Private dining facilities also available for up to 50 people, depending on format.

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

OUT & ABOUT

Country Living Spring Fair Celebrates 35 years of the magazine. 23-26 April 2020, Alexandra Palace

ountry Living Spring Fair will return with an exciting new line-up of the very best of British businesses and a truly unique experience for visitors and exhibitors. Celebrating the 35th anniversary of Country Living Magazine, the publication’s core values will be celebrated through four new show themes; Grow, Taste, Design and Make. Each sector will be brought to life with over 350 exhibitors, all-new immersive features and inspiring craft workshops, to make for an unforgettable and unique day out. Visitors can begin their day by discovering insightful and educational talks on topics including growing your own vegetables, bee keeping, building a new business, and more. The Fair will be equipped with the advice, expertise and products needed for visitors to get growing for the new decade! Attendees will also be able to shop food artisans, taste delicacies from an array of producers showcasing a variety of cuisines in the CL Pop Up Market, and learn how to make delicious, seasonal recipes using produce which can be sourced locally or grown at home. On the CL Kitchen Theatre, Expert speaker, Eco-chef and food waste activist Tom Hunt talks Eating for pleasure, people & the planet, whilst Great British Bake Off 2018 winner Rahul Mandal will share insights into the craft and skill that goes into creating some of the country’s most exciting cakes and bakes. Chef Mike Keen, Gracie & Sophie aka The Squirrel Sisters, Alex Hollywood and Lisa Faulkner will also be live on stage throughout the weekend sharing their foodie expertise and cooking up a storm in the kitchen. From the Country Living Stage to the Good Life Theatre, visitors will be able to learn from design led talks and seminars covering interior style trends to interviews with industry insiders. Chef, bestselling cookbook author and Fairtrade and sustainability champion, Melissa Hemsley will join Emma- Louise Pritchard, digital editor,

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READER OFFER:

2-4-1 READER OFFER 2-4-1 tickets, use code: CL241FEB T&C’s: *Offer only valid on standard adult tickets. Not valid on VIP tickets, LUXE VIP tickets or any add-on tickets, £2.20 fee applies per purchase. Offer valid until 11.59 pm on 22 April 2020.

Country Living on the Good Life Theatre alongside interviews with Country Living Editors and artisan makers; offering inspiring insight into the latest trends in food, interiors, fashion and more. Crafters and makers can take part in Workshops and Masterclasses with talented creators, enabling visitors to make products to take away whilst gaining valuable knowledge and learning new skills. New features to the Fair also include the Garden Café and the House Beautiful Modern Living Area presenting a contemporary living zone curated and brought to life by the House Beautiful team. Visitor favourites will also be returning; fashion lovers can explore the Vintage Village and the recover with a cold glass of fizz in the Champagne Lounge sponsored by Viking. With more unique events and experts still to be announced, the show is shaping up to be the most exciting yet! For more information please visit: www.countrylivingfair.com

OUT & ABOUT

PERSONALISED LEARNING: EMPOWERING THE INDIVIDUAL Jo Cameron, Principal

of Queenswood School in Brookmans Park, is passionate about educating the individual child.

t the heart of a truly bespoke education is a recognition that each pupil develops at their own pace, and in their own learning style. While kinaesthetic learners favour practical, hands-on experience, for instance, auditory-musical learners benefit from mnemonics, rhythms and background sounds. Increasingly, independent schools are working to differentiate their teaching methods to suit individual learners. Here at Queenswood, we have recently established a Personalised Learning Centre – a central hub where all learners can congregate. Our Academic Scholars, and pupils with additional learning needs, are all under the same roof, learning from each other and learning together. Scholars meet there for one-to-one and group sessions, to explore options for stretch and challenge and to discuss current affairs. Other pupils use it as a drop-in centre to seek advice on planning study and revision schedules, to play flashcard games to boost working memory, to discuss recommendations for non-fiction reading with staff and peers, or for structured tutorials to address specific learning issues.

“Here at Queenswood, we have recently established a Personalised Learning Centre” Strong links between a school’s pastoral teams and the academic staff are crucial in order to build up a holistic picture of each pupil’s needs, and to ensure that staff can work together to deliver whatever is required. At Queenswood, our Personalised Learning staff provide support in three waves. Firstly, they train teachers: a regular half-termly programme ensures that academic staff are up-to-date with the latest pedagogical research into specific learning issues, study skills and time management. Secondly, they provide in-class support, visiting lessons to help teachers to deliver the curriculum to a particular pupil or group of pupils. Thirdly, they are able to offer one-to-one or group tutorials within the Personalised Learning Centre itself. Ultimately, every pupil deserves to be recognised as an individual. A personalised approach to learning ensures that teachers respond and react to the needs of each child, nurturing their unique potential, fostering independence, and allowing them to discover their own strengths and passions in a safe, supportive environment. 66 MARCH 2020

fashion, HEALTH

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

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

H2O: Your Drink of 2020 H

ere we go again! Eat less, exercise more, dry January and hit the gym! We’ve heard them all before, same resolutions we are all guilty of breaking sometime before mid-February! However, there is one resolution we can all keep this year and it’s as easy as drinking water! We have come up with a number of reasons why H2O should be your Drink of 2020 and how taking part in our Big #LoveYourWater Detox can really improve your health and well-being! Promotes weight loss Now, we are all up for losing those few extra pounds that found us over the festive period. Water reduces eating intake, reduces hunger and raises your metabolism, and it has zero calories! Bye, bye toxins Flush out those nasty toxins and helps protect your kidneys from infections. Beautiful skin The good stuff keeps your skin fresh, soft, glowing and smooth. Save yourself money on the latest beauty cream and watch those years drop from your face! Stay flu free You are more likely to avoid the winter flu if you are drinking plenty of water. You know what they say, “drink between 6 and 8 glasses of water a day, keeps the Doctor away”. A natural headache remedy If you are suffering with a headache, reach for a glass of water first, chances are you are dehydrated!

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Ready to join in? Here are a few handy tips to help you to remember to drink more water!

“We are likely to drink more water if we enjoy the taste; installing a water filter to take out some of the nasties not only improves the quality but the taste and smell too”

Start new habits Link your daily actions to drinking a glass of water. Every time you wake up or go for a pee, have a glass of water. Or every time you need to collect something from the printer, go via the water cooler. Build these new habits into your daily routine. Have an H2O aperitif While you’re waiting for your meal to warm up, or finishing the last bit of cooking, down a glass of water or a cup of hot water with lemon. This will not only increase your water intake but will actually fill you up so you don’t eat as much, a fail proof dieters cheat! Invest in a filter We are likely to drink more water if we enjoy the taste; installing a water filter to take out some of the nasties not only improves the quality but the taste and smell too. And let’s be honest if it delivers bottled water quality on tap, it’s a no brainer isn’t it? Download an app There is one for everything these days, these include ones with notifications, trackers, alarms and all sorts. They’re easy and fun! So, there you have it, lots of reasons to #loveyourwater, join the Big Water Detox and stay hydrated in 2020! This is one new year’s resolution you can keep! Do you have any other handy tips? Let us know on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. www.loveyourwater.co.uk

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

[NEWS]

FASHION & BEAUTY make it personal We love this Dalmatian dot printed canvas shopper. Can be personalised with any initials, with print in gold. Made from Eco-friendly canvas with leather handles and brass feet. www.tillyanna.co.uk

back to nature AUSSIE RULES Who knew the perfect beach towel existed? Tesalate are one of the most reviewed beach products worldwide. Read reviews from our customers and media. There’s a lot more going on for a Tesalate towel behind its insatiably good looks. Utilising cutting-edge textile technology, we created our exclusive AbsorbLite™ fabric to bring you a towel that’s simply smarter than the rest. www.tesalate.com

This Hawk moth and poppy seed head ring was worn by Sansa Stark in the hit TV series Game of Thrones. The moth and poppy seed head are solid silver, handmade in Oxfordshire. www.lucysylvester.com

OFF THE CUFF These round silver cufflinks have mother of pearl cabochons inserted into their centre and have a hinged bar that makes it easy to insert them through the shirt cuffs. Ideal pearl wedding anniversary gift. 18mm in diameter, with the pearl measuring roughly 10mm in diameter. Fully hallmarked in London. www.hersey.co.uk

HUNGRY HIPPO This cute sweatshirt is our new favourite! The colour, the style - it’s everything! Perfect for casual evening, or day out. Comfortable, stylish and unique. Oxford navy marl ladies jumper, relaxed fit, raglan sleeves, wide neckline and off shoulder style. www.artsyclothing.co.uk 72 MARCH 2020

POP OF COLOUR Striking red primavera design by Marimekko for the spring summer 2020 collection. This colourful bag is a great one for summer shopping. www.abodeliving.co.uk

we love Beautiful handmade Liberty print twisted headbands. www.totknotsofbrighton.com

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

www.andrewgardner.co.uk 01296 625 488

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Spend this spring in Stenstrรถms

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tenströms has become one of the most respected brands of Swedish fashion. Founded in 1899, Stenströms is now sold in some of the most exclusive retailers throughout the world. Focusing on quality, style and comfort, Stenströms offers over a century’s worth of knowledge, tradition and craftsmanship. Showcasing a variation of shirts, knitwear and polos expertly crafted using premium fabrics, the collection spans a host of prints and patterns ranging from florals to checks and stripes all finished in a vibrant colour palette. So why not brighten up this season with Stenströms. Andrew Gardner, The Tanyard, Tring Road, Wendover, Buckinghamshire HP22 6ND 01296 625488 www.andrewgardner.co.uk MARCH 2020 75

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Get on top of your game: A

Prepare your shoulders and arms for an injury-free summer of sport

s my memories of our gloomy winter fade I’ll be dusting down my tennis racquet and golf clubs in anticipation of a summer of sport. I suspect this will be the same for many of you; unless of course you’ve been diligently practising and maintaining your condition over the winter; in which case well done and I hope your efforts are rewarded! As an upper limb specialist, I see countless frustrated tennis players and golfers whose seasons have been interrupted, or ruined by injury. Many problems (e.g. tennis elbow, rotator cuff injury and wrist tendonitis) could be avoided by some pre-season exercises, technique improvements and equipment adjustment. Whatever your summer sport, I hope this article will give you a few tips and the motivation to get started with some training to help you avoid injury this summer. 1. Exercise program – core strength, spine mobility and shoulder strengthening Many injuries in the shoulder, elbow and wrist result from weakness in the core and rotator cuff muscles and stiffness in the thoracic spine, as these result in overcompensation elsewhere as players try to generate force, reach and speed. An exercise program can make a big difference to your game, and also reduce chance of injury. Ideally, seek advice from a qualified personal trainer or a physiotherapist who will give you a tailored program. Your program should include: • Cardiovascular conditioning (endurance, concentration and speed) • Core strengthening (a sound core improves balance and control to reduce injury) • Thoracic spine mobilisation (a stiff spine overloads the shoulder and arm) • Scapula stabilizer strengthening (latissimus dorsi, rhomboids, lower trapezius) • Rotator cuff strengthening (the rotator cuff muscles control the shoulder joint) Many different exercises exist: most can easily be done at home with resistance bands or small dumbbells. If you cannot get professional advice, there are many videos available on YouTube and sports magazines often run articles on conditioning for their sport. A couple of videos are listed below: https://youtu.be/cOL-bTqIkX8 - rotator cuff exercises https://youtu.be/RBhh0rhjbQM - thoracic spine mobilisation 2. Technique Improvement Sports involve repeated cycles of specific movements of high velocity; and these movements are repeated countless times in training and play. Most of us have imperfect technique, either throughout our game, or just with a specific action (e.g. backhand). Even a small error will be repeated 76 MARCH 2020

countless times and may cause additional injury. Investing in coaching to analyse your technique and identify areas that you can improve is worthwhile. If you can embed simple improvements it will not only improve your performance, but it may well avoid you developing an injury. There is still time now to achieve this before the main competitive season begins. 3. Equipment Adjustment Grip size, string tension, relative head-to-handle balance and total racket weight all make a difference to the load placed on the elbow. The same goes for golf clubs with shaft weight and stiffness. Getting professionally fitted for the equipment you use will improve your confidence and performance but could also help you reduce your chance of injury. I hope very much that you enjoy a fulfilling and injury-free summer of sport. If you are unfortunate enough to develop an injury, do seek advice so you get a diagnosis and a good idea of what can be done and how soon you can recover. There is more information on several upper limb conditions on this website: www.windsorupperlimb.com.

Mr Jeremy Granville-Chapman MBBS MD FRCS (Tr&Orth) Consultant Shoulder and Elbow Orthopaedic Surgeon www.windsorupperlimb.com

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

5 MINUTES WITH DAME JESSICA ENNIS-HILL We caught up with Ennis-Hill to chat wellbeing, fitness and combating stress...

What’s your favourite way to chill out after a long day? “Literally just cook a meal and watch Netflix with my husband, something gritty on there.”

Lauren Taylor chats

the former Olympian about her day-to-day wellness routine.

ne of Britain’s most celebrated athletes, Dame Jessica EnnisHill now mostly runs around after her two kids, rather than around an athletics track but that doesn’t mean she’s slowed down. The 34-year-old famously returned to the heptathlon to win gold at the Beijing World Championships in 2015, just 15 months after giving birth to her first child, her son Reggie, now five. Since then, she’s hung up her track spikes and had a second child, daughter Olivia, now two, with husband Andy, who she married back in 2013. She’s also launched a fitness app, Jennis, which features short, indoor workouts aimed mainly at pregnant and postnatal women, as well as anyone who just want to improve their fitness with quick at-home workouts.

What’s your fitness routine now you’ve retired from athletics? “I try and do two circuit sessions a week. I’ll do one on a Monday with my husband, then I’ll fit one in later in the week, and I’ll walk the dog and try and do a hill run session when my daughter is at nursery and Reggie’s at school. So I’d say I exercise three times a week, and I’ll fit in an ab circuit as and when I can. “For me, it’s about exercising conveniently. It’s body works and high-intensity like burpees, which work your cardiovascular system but also strengthen your muscles and get you really fit. “If I did go down to the track, with the hurdles, I might think, ‘Shall I just have a go?’ But gosh, I’d probably tear my hamstring or something!” How do you cope with stress? “Exercise! If I’ve had one of those days, which I had the other day and at the end of it you’re just so tired - just doing a circuit, you feel so much better. Because you can get all your adrenaline and aggression out while exercising, and then you feel much better after.” What’s guaranteed to make you instantly happy? “My kids, just seeing them.” Describe your ideal Saturday morning “The weeks are so busy rushing around everywhere, so on Saturdays, for me it’s just nice to have a lazy morning and a late brunch with the kids. Then take the dog out to the woods and go on a little adventure, something outdoorsy in the afternoon so [the kids] feel like they’ve burned off some energy!” What’s your favourite healthy meal to make? “I quite like making a sweet potato dahl, with a bit of spinach in there. That’s nice when the weather is bad.” How many hours do you sleep a night? “I probably sleep about eight hours.” Do you meditate? “I used to. I did yoga for a while leading up to the Olympics, and we always did meditation after, which I loved. I was like, ‘Let’s skip the yoga and

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just do that’. Then I didn’t have time to do it, but recently I’ve started doing a bit before bed and I think it’s so good for you. “It actually gives you time to completely stop thinking about everything you’ve got to do in life - I think that’s really important.” Coffee or herbal tea? “Coffee.” Can you touch your toes? [Laughs] “Yeah.” Have you ever tried any weird diets? “No, I’m not for faddy things and diets. I love food, I like having a glass of wine, so I allow myself to do that by exercising, and just keeping active and being balanced in life.” What’s your guilty pleasure? “I’ve got a massive sweet tooth, so anything chocolatey, desserts, cheesecake...”

Any health and fitness goals for 2020? “To continue keeping fit. I think it’s so hard to get to that fitness level, and if you just maintain, it’s so much easier than trying to get there. So for 2020, I just want to maintain good fitness and enjoy exercising.” Jessica Ennis-Hill’s fitness app Jennis Fitness (jennisfitness.com) is available to download on iOS and Android for £9.99 per month.

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

KNEE-HIGH BOOTS INSPIRED BY

THE DUCHESS OF CAMBRIDGE Knee-high boots are a stylish winter warmer and they’re perfect for pairing with midi dresses, says Katie Wright.

Black Floral Print Midi Dress, £32 (was £40); Nude Knee High Heeled Boots, £69, available from Walli

Forever Comfort Feature Heel Knee High Boots, £65, available from Next

Combining a long-sleeved midi dress with knee-high boots, the mum-of-three looked cosy but chic as she and Prince William visited Bulldogs Development Centre in Port Talbot. Kate’s red dress is from Zara and her black suede boots are an old pair from Russell & Bromley she’s worn many a time (we can see why). The 38-year-old completed her look with a black belt, a golden locket necklace and hoop earrings, plus a navy coat, heart print scarf and red clutch bag when she was outdoors. The key to making this look work, is to combine boots that are high enough with a dress that is long enough, so you don’t end up with a gap between the two. The rest is up to you. You could take a leaf out of Kate’s book with block colours, or mix it up with a floral print dress. Dark hues work well at this time of year, but equally, tan or cream boots bring a certain freshness to your winter wardrobe. As for heels, Kate opted for sensible square heels and a round-toed boot, but if you haven’t got a lot of walking to do, why not try a stiletto heel or a pointed toe? 82 MARCH 2020

Tasha Square Toe Knee High Slouch Boots, £29.25 (were £48), available from Very

Silene Black Ruched Block Heel Knee High Boots, £125 (were £170), available from Dune

Keep Up Burgundy Leather Stiletto Knee Boots, £50 (were £129), available from Office

The Duchess of Cambridge during a visit to Bulldogs Boxing Club at the Bulldogs Development Centre in Port Talbot, south Wale

e’re still in winter, and while the nights are starting to get lighter, there’s still a whole lot of chilly weather yet to come. Sigh. That means the sartorial challenge continues: how to look stylish and stay warm at the same? Luckily, the Duchess of Cambridge is here to help. Kate recently showed off an outfit which perfectly solves this cold-weather conundrum.

LINGERIE NIGHTWEAR ACTIVEWEAR SWIMWEAR

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

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

THE LAUNCH OF A NEW Introducing the Indulgent & Enlightening World of Sensory Retreats, launched exclusively at Stoke Park

lare Anderson, the founder behind the highly successful Lava Shells and kokolokahi brands who has over 25 years’ experience in the luxury spa and skincare industry, has launched a unique new product house and holistic wellbeing brand: Sensory Retreats. The new brand has launched exclusively at the Stoke Park Hotel & Spa in Buckinghamshire with its Sensory Retreats Mandala Flow massage before rolling out the full range of Holistic Treatments to selected spas nationwide. Taking the spa experience to the next level, Sensory Retreats offers the spa guest an enchanting and exclusive journey of the senses using natural ingredients, unique massage techniques and mindful experiences, helping them to relax, rebalance and reset. These innovative and deeply restorative massage treatments, range of retail products and personal experiences, are designed to elevate personal wellbeing to the highest level and bring

increased balance and enjoyment to our lives through the power of the 5 senses: sight, sound, smell, taste and expert touch. Using a luxurious fusion of Argan, Shea and purest Coconut oil and delicately balanced aromatherapy oil blends, combined with carefully curated advanced massage techniques and additional touches, each treatment has been developed to stimulate all 5 senses and deliver a specific wellbeing benefit. Whether this is to Restore your spirit and settle your emotions, Revive and energise body and

“Taking the spa experience to the next level, Sensory Retreats offers the spa guest an enchanting and exclusive journey of the senses”

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BRITISH PRODUCT HOUSE mind, Empower you to feel stronger, Invigorate circulation and ease muscle tension or simply just be to enjoy the Pure Touch indulgent massage that leaves skin silky soft and induces a feeling of complete relaxation and calm. There is a full complement of treatments on offer under the Sensory Retreats brand umbrella including: Sensory Retreats Divine Escape Massage. This bespoke heavenly journey of the senses bespoke to the individual, is a full immersion of pleasure and engagement for all 5 senses: Touch, Sight, Smell, Sound, Taste. This involves the inhalation of the most incredible therapeutic aromas, the luxurious warmth from the oil, or from massage candles with the calming effect of their comforting glow; the captivating sound of Tingsha Bells, Koshi chimes and crystal singing bowls, naturally tuned to a therapeutic vibration; the placing of crystals, carefully chosen for their restorative effect; all combined with powerfully rejuvenating massage techniques from around the world and the caring touch of your therapist’s healing hands. The treatment can be enhanced with the luxurious warmth of the Therma Bliss collection including Lava Shells, Cowrie Shells, Molten Lava Stones, ThermaMask, Therma Herbal Poultice and nourishing Parafin wax hand and foot masks; concluding with a deliciously infused herbal tea to complement the nature of the enriching experience. Sensory Retreats Mandala Flow is an extraordinary treatment to evoke serenity and mindfulness, devised in cooperation with Wellness Specialist to the stars, Candice Pennington. Launching first at Stoke Park Spa, this multi-sensory ritual, blending together Eastern and Western techniques creates an unsurpassable massage that takes you into a heightened state of tranquility touching upon each of your senses. Drawing upon advanced massage techniques, harnessing the power of flowing, using deep yet gentle strokes your therapist guides your mind, body and spirit into a meditative state of relaxation integrating sound and Pure Organic Coconut Oil. Anna Thomas, Spa Director at Stoke Park Spa says “I am so excited to be welcoming Sensory Retreats into Stoke Park Spa. A spa experience should awaken all of your senses and ensure you take a moment to stop and refresh and I feel that the new oils and treatments from Sensory Retreats deliver this perfectly. The mandala flow massage is pure heaven and really delivers what a spa experience should for you. We are delighted to be having the treatment exclusively at Stoke Park and are excited to welcome our spa guests to enjoy it with us.” Other treatments in the range include: Sensory Retreats Lava Shell Aroma Touch Massage using the world famous Lava Shells and a choice of Sensory Retreats oils; Sensory Retreats Lava Shell Aroma Touch Candle Massage, an indulgent candle oil

“The Sensory Retreats experience starts in spa but extends to a range of retail products including Sensory Retreats wellbeing oil blends”

massage; Sensory Retreats Pure Touch using just the power of touch and pure vegan friendly coconut oil; Sensory Retreats Lava Touch, a bespoke treatment using PURE touch and Lava Shells; and Sensory Retreats Touch of Lava Bliss, a deeply relaxing massage which, combined with Therma Bliss products, enables the therapist to bespoke the treatment to the client’s needs. The Sensory Retreats experience starts in spa but extends to a range of retail products including Sensory Retreats wellbeing oil blends. Gift sets incorporating a treat size wellbeing oil, massage candle, chakra diffuser bracelet, crystal, lavender eye mask and herbal tea along with wellbeing advice and tips enable our spa and salon guests to continue enjoying the benefits of their Sensory Retreats journey at home or on their travels. Providing the ability to take some much needed “me” time every day. The company also has plans to expand to full experience retreats in collaboration with its team of wellbeing experts in the UK and abroad, bringing its community together for further personal enrichment. Announcing the launch of Sensory Retreats, Founder, Clare Anderson says “The need to retreat from daily life, if even for a moment has become increasingly important and necessary for our emotional and mental self-care. From my own experience working with over 2,000 UK spas and developing product lines, I didn’t feel that traditional spa massage treatments and aftercare which work on just one or two of the senses were fully providing this solution. As a result Sensory Retreats was born, a collection of holistic wellbeing treatments, products and experiences from around the world which envelops all 5 of our senses, cocooning the user into their own mini retreat whether this is in spa, at home or on location.” To find out more about the exclusive Sensory Retreats Treatments at Stoke Park, please call their Reservations department on 01753 71 71 72 or visit www.stokepark.com

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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

HAY FEVER: TIPS & FACTS Hay fever is a common condition and is an allergic reaction to pollen. Around 10 million people in the UK have a current hay fever diagnosis. words: Dr Riccardo Di Cuffa THE FACTS • What is it? Hay fever is a general term used for seasonal rhinitis. This is a common allergic reaction to a pollen condition that affects up to one in five people at some point in their life. Pollen is a fine powder released by plants as part of their reproductive cycle and can affect the nose, eyes, throat and sinuses. When pollen enters our system, histamines are created in an inflammatory response to the allergen which cause the classic hay fever symptoms • Who is affected? Around half of hay fever sufferers find that their symptoms reduce as they age, and around 10-20% have no symptoms at all over time. It can also get worse over time, but it’s different for each individual. Hay fever can affect any age group, but often begins at a young age. • The hay fever cycle begins in spring, when pollen is released from the trees. This continues into summer, when grass pollen is released at the beginning of the season • Effects on daily life: Symptoms include a runny nose, itchy eyes and sneezing, which are not only irritating and uncomfortable but can seriously affect your daily life. These symptoms can cause impaired sleep and reduce school performance or your attendance at work. Less well-known symptoms include nasal congestion, facial pains and post-nasal drip.

TIPS • Avoiding Pollen is easier said than done and it is particularly hard in high season. You can keep track of pollen levels on weather forecasts. If you can’t avoid the pollen, try and apply a small amount of Vaseline to your inner nostrils to help prevent the 86 MARCH 2020

pollen going up the nose. Levels can be worse in the morning as cool air causes pollen to be trapped closer to the ground. Keeping windows closed in the morning can help symptoms. • Anti-Histamine tablets are the most effective symptom reliever for sufferers and can be purchased over the counter. Stronger ones may be prescribed by your GP. It’s important to take them regularly during the season; sometimes changing the type of anti-histamine can help. • Avoid Alcohol as it contains histamines which produce allergy symptoms and can make hay fever worse. Alcohol can also make you feel dehydrated, which may make symptoms seem more uncomfortable. • Cleaning: Wash your hair and change your clothes after a day out as pollen accumulates on clothing. Don’t dry clothes on the line outside if pollen is high. • Kenalog injection: Approximately 10% of sufferers do not respond to conventional treatments. Some sufferers may consider a corticosteroid Kenalog injection to help them get through the season. A Kenalog injection does not cure hay fever, it just temporarily suppresses the immune system enough to take away the symptoms in most people who need it. It’s important that patients have tried conventional treatments as this medication, once injected, cannot be reversed. It’s not suitable for all patients so it’s important to discuss the options with a GP. • Plan: have a clear plan for the summer for treating your hay fever and react early before the symptoms are well established for the most effective regime. www.your-doctor.co.uk 0330 088 2020

“Wash your hair and change your clothes after a day out as pollen accumulates on clothing. Don’t dry clothes on the line outside if pollen is high”

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

FEARNE COTTON:

INIKA Organic Mineral Mattifying Powder, £23

MY MAKE-UP MUST-HAVES For the presenter and author, beauty products have got to be ethical and easy to use. WORDS: Katie Wright

t’s clear from the way she recalls the unexpected arrival of a box of Charlotte Tilbury lipsticks, that Fearne Cotton is a true make-up lover. “She actually sent me this box of about 20 lipsticks - it was one of the most exciting days of mine and my daughter’s lives. “We were just like, ‘Oh my god, what are we going to do? This is insane.’ We were both playing around with them for hours.” What was the TV presenter’s favourite shade from the glamorous glut? “I’ve got one in my bag right now, what’s it called?” she says, rummaging to retrieve the brickred lippie encased in a shiny rose gold tube. “This one is called Viva La Vergara. It’s a darker colour, I wouldn’t normally wear this colour, but I’ve been really liking it recently.” “And I mean, who doesn’t like Charlotte Tilbury’s eyeshadow quads? They’re amazing,” she continues, warming to her theme. The 38-year-old, whose main focus now is her Happy Place podcast, as well as being mum to

kids Rex, 6, and Honey, 4, is also Charlotte Tilbury Luxury Palette The a cookbook author - her most Vintage Vamp, £40 recent, Happy Vegan, is entirely plant-based, so it’s no surprise to learn she has a preference for ethical cosmetics brands. “I like Burt’s Bees [the brand is cruelty-free and doesn’t test on animals],” she notes. “I like their cream blusher - it’s like a stick - and their foundation.” She says organic brand INIKA is another go-to, INIKA Organic Certified citing the powder and eyeliner as favourites. Organic All this enthusiasm might lead you to believe Liquid Eyeliner Black, £19 Cotton loves nothing more than relaxing with some #skincaresunday ‘me’ time. “God no. Absolutely not,” she laughs. “I’m not gonna lie. I’ve got a million things I would rather do than have a facial, or even pampering myself. “Occasionally, like once every two weeks, I might have five minutes to put a quick face mask on whilst the kids are killing each other in the bath and screaming the house down. “But other than that, I don’t have a routine. I just take my make-up off with micellar water, or whatever cleanser I’ve got at home, and put moisturiser on. That’s it.” The only indulgence the busy mum does sometimes allow herself is a soak in the tub. “I do love having a bath, don’t get me wrong. But I Charlotte Tilbury Hot see that as very different from having a skincare Lips S Viva La Vergara routine. Lipstick, £28 “For me, being in the bath is all about chilling the hell out and transitioning from a hectic day to, ‘I’m Burt’s Bees All Aglow going to bed soon’. Lip & Cheek Stick Peony “So I love getting in the bath, maybe adding Pool, £12.99, Superdrug a bath bomb, maybe some oil, you know, nice smelling stuff, to calm me down, and reading a book - that, for me, is heaven.” Burt’s Bees Goodness Glows Liquid Foundation, £14.99, Superdrug

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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

LAURA WHITMORE’s BEAUTY SECRETS The TV presenter and self-confessed beauty buff reveals all to Katie

Wright.

Perusing red carpet photos of Laura Whitmore, it’s hard to imagine the blue-eyed beauty ever looking anything but flawless. But the Irish presenter, who began her career in modelling before moving into TV, says it wasn’t always so. “How I did my make-up when I first moved to London 13 years ago was shocking!” she says, speaking on the phone shortly before she heads back to Ireland for the weekend. “I just kind of thought, you know, more is more - which it wasn’t.” Luckily, the 34-year-old was able to learn from the best when having her make-up done by pros like Justine Jenkins, who specialises in cruelty-free beauty. “Justine taught me a lot about where you get your products from and the responsibility we have in that regard,” says Whitmore, who has become increasingly passionate about sustainability in recent years. That’s why she’s teamed up with Colgate to promotes its new toothbrush, made from biodegradable bamboo. “I think everyone now realises that we all need to kind of make those changes for sustainable living,” she says.

I’m going to because that’s kind of more for nighttime, with a bit of sparkle in it.” West Barn Co Soap Brows, £19 “A make-up artist used this on me and now basically all my friends have bought it. “It’s basically soap in a tin and then you use a little brush to brush up your eyebrows, to Cara Delevingne them up! I love it.” Charlotte Tilbury Full Fat Lashes Glossy Black, £23 “I love Charlotte Tilbury mascara. You know, when it comes to mascara it’s all about the brush - with this, it’s the brush that I like.”

Colgate Charcoal Bamboo Toothbrush Soft, £2.99, Superdrug “I know people go, ‘Oh just changing your toothbrush isn’t going to make a difference’, but if everybody did, those small changes [would add up].” The presenter, who recently returned from an American road trip holiday with boyfriend Iain Stirling (the hilarious voice of Love Island), says that she also tries to avoid too many ‘fast fashion’ purchases. “When you see people like Meghan Markle [the headlines say] ‘Oh my god, she wore the same dress twice - shock horror’. But it’s OK to do that. “And do you know what’s lovely? Sharing clothes. I borrow clothes from friends all the time and I give clothes to my friends for work things or for TV things. “Let’s just use what we have instead of creating more waste.” Same goes for beauty, the former Strictly contestant says, and when I enquire about her must-have products she excitedly grabs her make-up bag and starts rummaging to find her favourites.

From the perfect hydrating foundation to her fail-safe red lippie, here are Laura Whitmore’s beauty essentials... IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream with SPF 50+, £31 “I’m a fair-skinned Irish lady so anything with an SPF in I make that part of my routine, especially the foundation that I use day to day. “It’s IT Cosmetics, they have quite a wide range. I have it in light and fair-light, it’s good because it’s actually quite good coverage but it doesn’t feel that heavy. “It kind of feels like you’re just putting moisturiser on your skin - mine can get quite dehydrated.” Charlotte Tilbury Wonderglow Face Primer, £39 “I’ve actually brought this with me for a wedding 90 MARCH 2020

Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Red Carpet Red, £25 “A good red lip can just change [your look]. I love a bright red. “Like tonight I’m going to one of my best friend’s weddings. I’m flying to Ireland and I have to go straight from the airport to the drinks, but all I’m going to do is put red lipstick on when I get off the plane and that’s me done.”

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H OUSE & GARDEN

[NEWS]

INTERIORS “Modern Luxe, Relaxed Living and Rustic Elegance styling trends”

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tobias oliver’s new collection

Introductory offer of 10% off our new apothecary range by L’Objet. The apothecary collection is designed to beautify the air, nourish the body and lift the spirit. Artfully balanced aromatics can transform ordinary rituals into extraordinary escapes. Available to test and try out at our showroom starting at £22. Online discount code: APO10. 85 - 87 High Street, Berkhamsted, Herts www.tobiasoliverinteriors.com

SPRING FORWARD TO SUMMER

Sofa.com are excited to announce the launch of their SS20 collection. Available now, the range includes an exciting array of new shapes, from sofas and armchairs to beds, and stylish accessories, perfect for your spring summer refresh. From rich saturated colours to beautifully handcrafted detailing and luxurious textures, a variety of mix aesthetics take centre stage this season. We see Modern Luxe, Relaxed Living and Rustic Elegance styling trends as the core themes throughout the collection. www.sofa.com

modern living

The new Barbican collection from MY Furniture is inspired by modernist architecture with clean lines and simple styling. Constructed from smoked oak and quality veneer, with a smart brushed stainless steel frame, this striking new collection has been designed with modern day living in mind. www.my-furniture.com

TOP TABLE

We love this sophisticated coffee table with nesting design, the Claes coffee table with glass top is ideal in contemporary living spaces. Also available with a sleek matte black finish. www.cultfurniture.com 94 MARCH 2020

statement piece

This Buster & Punch ceiling light looks fantastic over bars, dining tables as well as a host of other applications. The polished black marble back panel and signature penny buttons really enhance this wonderful statement piece. www.brand-designs.com

0845 340 4435 brand-designs.com enquiries@brand-designs.com The Design Studio Chesham, HP5 1SD

H OUSE & GARDEN

Tobias Oliver Interiors Lifts the Lid on Art I have a passion for - modernist, organic jewellery from the 60s and 70s. I’ve got a number of pieces of this jewellery and it’s amazing, but I just thought it needs to be ten times bigger and on the wall!

t Tobias Oliver Interiors, we are privileged to work with some hugely talented artists at our gallery and interior design showroom in Berkhamsted. We have an array of exquisite artworks on display, but also enable bespoke commissions. One of our enigmatic artists, Emily, who has created some of our most beautiful and iconic pieces of art, delivered some incredible new pieces last month, so we took this opportunity to ask some questions about her fascinating work. Q: How long have you been an artist? A: I’ve been a professional artist for 10 years, before that I was a specialist paint finisher and gilder for interiors. I began my art career after I had a dream about this piece of art, and I convinced a friend to commission me to create it - and that’s how it all started! Q: What inspires your work? A: Generally, it’s always something in nature. For that first piece, the vision in my head was crystals bursting out of rock, combined with something else

Q: What is your favourite medium to work with, and why? A: Texture is the most important thing to me; I like using plaster and I use resins to make it tougher. I like the way it has a mind of its own, the little imperfections become the standout features when used in art. Many of my pieces incorporate a combination of semi-precious stones and minerals - I source these from specialised suppliers where I can match the colours and sizes. The other thing I use in a lot of my pieces is metallic leaf – gilding makes all the textures just look doubly amazing.

Once everything has cured thoroughly, I gild the whole canvas using layers of metal leaf such as 22-carat gold, silver, copper or palladium. Each leaf has its own properties and foibles. It’s not just the colour of the leaf which informs the choice, some leaf can be left unsealed to give a beautiful high sheen, but others will tarnish if not sealed. After sealing the leaf, I start to layer acrylic glazes and paints to create depth and an aged organic feel. Everything is then sealed again to protect it from UV and give a more durable surface. Q: What is your favourite piece? A: I love the ones that I am doing at the moment, with the ripples and agate slices, but I will always have a massive place in my heart for the ‘Unlikely Matrix’ pieces with crystals and the antique silver these are the first ones I started out working on.

Q: Can you walk us through your process: A: I build my own canvases so that’s the very first thing. Then I sketch out the movement I want to see in the piece. With pieces that revolve around incorporated organic elements, such as the crystal and agate pieces, I fix the minerals to the canvas first. The background textures can then happen in one go or in several layers.

A range of Emily’s exquisite pieces can be viewed in our showroom on Berkhamsted High Street, or if you are interested in a commission please call us on 01442 818122.

“We love the first meeting between artist and customer; guiding them to help learn what in their lifestyles or preferences they want the art to reflect, ultimately making their homes truly personal to their tastes” - Tobias Oliver

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Traditional shaker styles designed for modern living

H OUSE & GARDEN

Create a garage to suit your lifestyle T

he garage has become a general dumping ground for everything from 20 years’ worth of paint tins, to old bicycles and unused plant pots. The typical garage is cold and uninviting, often resembling a junkyard. Homeowners, who have a garage, are forced to leave their car on the driveway because there is simply not enough room to get the car in. Those wanting a clean, tidy and safe garage generally make their way to the local DIY store to build the necessary shelves and cabinets to tidy away ‘the clutter’. However, there is an easy option to consider – Garageflex. They have been installing garage systems throughout the UK since December 2005 and are based near Marlow in Buckinghamshire. Garageflex is a nationwide company that designs and installs bespoke storage and organisational systems for your residential garage creating what we term ‘The garage to suit your lifestyle”. This can be for those wanting to use the garage for their cars, to turn it into a home gym, office, playroom or general storage. The basis of the Garageflex design is the wall lining, a heavy-duty PVC material with grooved strips, off which are hung a range of shelves, hooks and racks. Equipment for hobbies such as cycling, golf, fishing, skiing and gardening can then be stored on the walls and, because the storage accessories hang on the grooved strips, they can easily be moved and repositioned without the need for tools. There are also options for the floor and ceiling so owners can have as much or as little of their garage made over.

98 MARCH 2020

“Garageflex recently launched an Essentials range for those looking for a cost-effective storage and organisation system”

Garageflex designs the customer’s perfect garage using a software package which calculates the precise layout. This shows the client how the finished room will look and they can add and remove items to suit their requirements and budget. A typical garage refurbishment takes around three/four days and an average double garage will cost around £9,500, depending on the client’s exact requirements. Because of the flexibility of the system, there is the option of doing part of the garage initially and revisiting in the future. Garageflex recently launched an Essentials range for those looking for a cost-effective storage and organisation system. Offering storage and the ability to hang items on the walls together with a tiled floor gives a great and functional look to the garage. For single and double garages this can be achieved in the range of £3-£4,000. And with Finance Options also available this an be a sound investment. Another growing part of their business is the trend for “fitness at home” and this they do by converting the garage into a clean and tidy space that can be used as a gym. Managing Director Alastair Broom says “ Like me a lot of people are members of a local gym but once the garage has been converted it is so much easier to pop in there for a workout than get in the car and drive to your local club”. For more information, please contact www.garageflex.co.uk info@garageflex.co.uk Tel: 01491 579975

H OUSE & GARDEN

TRAILING HOUSEPLANTS & HOW TO CARE FOR THEM and winter, and avoid putting it in a bathroom or steamy kitchen because it won’t like the humidity. In summer, ventilate the room from time to time by opening a window to allow it some fresh air.

3. Rhipsalis There are many varieties of this cacti, which will happily trail over pots and down walls if put in the right spot. Unlike other cacti, it’s not a prickly plant, instead having what almost looks like a mop of hair. It needs plenty of light but not direct sunlight, preferring dappled sunlight. The mistletoe cactus (Rhipsalis baccifera) is the perfect cactus for the bathroom, favouring humid conditions. It will need watering but don’t let its roots sit in moisture. White flowers appear over the summer, followed by berries.

Add some stylish accents to your space with an eye-catching trailing plant in a hanging pot or planter. words: Hannah Stephenson.

railing plants aren’t just for outdoor hanging baskets and planters. Used imaginatively, they can create a stylish haven indoors too - but you’ll need to pick the right plants for the right space. And don’t think ivy is the only option. There are so many other plants which can be combined or used as stand-alone statements to provide architectural interest and colour to a room. Green and flowering plants, like columnea and cissus, reinforce the sense of a big change of season, allowing the light through and muting the stimuli from outdoors, according to plant experts The Joy Of Plants (Thejoyofplants.co.uk). Here are some ideas for great trailing and hanging plants, whether you want to just let them drape from a shelf or suspend them in planters from the ceiling or a rafter...

100 MARCH 2020

1. String of pearls (Senecio rowleyanus) Also known as string of beads, this eye-catching plant produces strands which bear pea-like leaves, although it is fussy about watering, only preferring to be watered when the top 2cm of the compost is dry. Plant it in good potting compost in bright, indirect light. If you want to increase your stock, cuttings of this plant will root easily when pinned to the surface of a pot of cactus compost. Keep temperatures above 10C in winter.

2. Burro’s tail (Sedum morganianum) This rich succulent, which produces thick stems of blue-green leaves that look like plaits, needs gritty soil and good drainage, sunshine and protection from extreme cold temperatures to thrive. If you’re lucky, in summer, small clusters of pinkish red star-shaped flowers may appear at the end of the stems. Don’t overwater it, especially in autumn

4. Climbing fig (Ficus pumila) The climbing fig, or creeping fig as it is also known, is an evergreen self-clinging climber with beautiful heart-shaped leaves. If there’s nothing to hold on to it will grow over the edge of the pot, giving you an attractive hanging plant, or train the tendrils along a shape to allow them to climb across a wall. The plant evolves over its life: a young climbing fig has small leaves, while the leaves on a more mature plant are larger. According to The Joy Of Plants, it likes plenty of light but not full sun. Don’t place it over a heater or in a draught, and once it’s in place don’t move it because it doesn’t like change. Cut the stems back if they become too long.

5. Ceropegia (String of hearts) A relaxing atmosphere is strengthened by hanging plants, including ceropegia, with its strings of heartshaped leaves. Again, don’t overwater it because its skinny roots will rot. The best thing to do is to let this plant dry out in between waterings. Place it in a sunny spot and new strands should grow in the direction of the light. Trim the straggly bits to keep it tidy, as they can grow to 1.5m long. Pair it with tradescantia and rhipsalis in pastel-coloured knotted cloth and light pots. This enables them to extend and allows the leaves’ various shades of grey and green to create fantastical veils. Just what you need to get through the darker days in a cheerful mood.

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H OUSE & GARDEN

Make your bedroom

a spring sanctuary

WORDS: Gabrielle Fagan

ou are missing a trick if you’re only using your bedroom for snoozing and loving, as this space should be a stylish sanctuary where it’s easy to relax and

unwind. After a long day, you should be able to retreat to a place of tranquility and calm in order to relax and catch up on some precious sleep. Design and decor can play a huge role in making sure your bedroom is the oasis it should be. There’s a lot of talk about getting the ‘wow’ factor for rooms, but in bedrooms you’re really seeking the ‘aaah’ factor’. You should immediately feel your shoulders drop as you shed tension and realise that this is where you can truly be yourself and unwind. When decorating your bedroom, simplicity is the key to serenity. So no matter what your particular style is, all you need to do to create a sumptuous oasis is heed a few basic but important design ideas. If you’re having trouble sleeping, it might be because of the paint colour in your room. Colours that are too bright or bold can actually keep you 102 MARCH 2020

awake. Light colours are great for making a room feel larger, but a darker hue envelops the bedroom, creating the perfect space to relax and slumber. If you need to have something bold, painting a feature wall behind your head may give you the punch you’re looking for without interrupting your sleep. The bed is obviously the focal point, but at the end of the day, it’s the finishing touches that will turn a bedroom into the ultimate personal comfort zone. Whether your bedroom is covered in carpet or hardwood, rugs are a great way to add colour, texture and of course, warmth underfoot. Try layering rugs in different shapes and patterns for an extra-comfy look. You need to clear any clutter, allow space for you to breathe! The only items that should be in your bedroom are the items you love and care to look at every morning and evening, like family photographs. If you are trying to make your bedroom as cosy as possible, bright overhead lighting will not help. Instead, opt for sleek bedside lighting whether that be a wall mounted sconce or a simple lamp. It has to be bright enough to allow for reading in bed, but not overwhelming or (gasp!) fluorescent. Anything with a dimmer is ideal. Scent your room with essential oils. In aromatherapy, a number of scents are recognised for reducing stress. Relaxing scents include bergamot, chamomile, lavender, lemon, marjoram, neroli, orange, sandalwood, valerian and ylang-ylang. Your bedroom should be a place of rest and relaxation. You should look forward to retreating there at the end of the day. Making some simple decor changes can help transform this important space into the peaceful sanctuary you deserve!

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In tune with nature

Astrologer Jane Struthers offers an introduction to lunar gardening, and tips to help you tune into the cycles of nature.

Are you a gardener who follows astrology? If so, you may be interested to know your garden could perform better if you plan your gardening schedule according to the path of the moon, through the zodiac each month. So says astrologer Jane Struthers, whose latest book Moonpower offers an introduction to lunar gardening. Here, she explains the basics...

So, how does it work? The basic principal is that the moon has a pulling effect on all water. This includes the sap in plants, which rises during the ascending moon and falls towards the roots when it descends. When the sap rises, it’s a good time to sow seeds; when it descends, it’s time to do work that involves the plant’s root system, such as planting seedlings, thinning them out and propagating by division or layering. Lunar gardening tracks the 27.3-day sidereal path of the moon, which is its journey around the zodiac in relation to the constellations, not the path which consists of one complete cycle of the moon’s phases, such as from one new moon to the next. How do you work out which phase you’re in? The easiest way for newcomers to lunar gardening is to download an app such as Moon & Garden (iPhone and Android), which gives details of the lunar calendar and shows you what you should be planting and the jobs you should be doing at any particular time. Where do signs of the zodiac come in? Each sign of the zodiac belongs to a particular element - Air, Earth, Fire or Water. The theory behind lunar gardening is that as the moon moves through each sign, it transmits the energy of that element to the earth. Whether you’re digging the soil, sowing seeds, transplanting seedlings, weeding, hoeing or pruning, always do it when the moon is in the appropriate element for the type of plant you’re tending. Fire plants (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius) These are plants grown for their fruits or seeds, including soft fruits such as strawberries, stone fruits like apricots and top fruits such as apples and pears, as well as tomatoes, cucumbers, chillies, peppers and beans.

104 MARCH 2020

Earth plants (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn) These are grown for their roots and include carrots, parsnips, potatoes and onions. Air plants (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius) These are plants grown for their flowers, such as geraniums, violets and roses, as well as flowering bulbs and rhizomes. In the vegetable garden air plants include broccoli and artichokes, because their heads are flower buds. Water plants (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces) These are all grown for their leaves. Lettuces, cabbages, leeks and leafy herbs are in this category. The idea is to only work on plants that belong to a particular element, or the soil in which the plants will be grown, when the moon is in that element. So, if you’re just tidying up your greenhouse to prepare to plant out tomato seedlings, do it on a Fire day. When should I harvest? Harvest Fire element plants on Fire days, preferably when the moon is ascending, but not on Air days. Harvest root plants on Earth days but not on Water days. Air element plants should be harvested on Air days but not on Fire days, and Water plants are best harvested on Fire or Air days. The moon’s influence regulates the amount of moisture in the plants, so storing them at the wrong time can mean they will be either too dry when you eat them, or too wet when you store them. Make sure you check on the correct lunar phase for the best result. Are there any times I should avoid gardening? Don’t do any gardening at least six hours either side of a new or full moon, and at least 12 hours either side of an eclipse, because the moon’s energy is too strong and may adversely affect the plants and the soil. Moonpower by Jane Struthers is published by Eddison Books, priced £14.99. Available now.

H OUSE & GARDEN

Cinematic Heaven Beneath Your Home T

he best way to enjoy a feature film is in a cinema, but that doesn’t mean you have to leave the house. Having a dedicated cinema room is the ideal scenario for many movie fans, whilst increasing the value and demand of your property, and of course major status and assets for you, the homeowner. How you go about achieving this depends on the space you have available, and how much you are willing to invest. If you are really serious about getting a home cinema, it can be a good idea to seek out a specialist company. Acoustics, surround sound systems, matching the screen’s size to the size of the room, home cinema seating and lighting are all areas that need specific attention. Here is our guide to creating your own home cinema.

ROOM CHOICE

SURROUND SOUND SPEAKERS

Ideally you want your home cinema installation to be in a room that is isolated from the rest of the activity in the house. Soundproofing is important of course, and it can also help to choose a room that does not need to be used for any other purpose, and is not a throughway to somewhere else. For these reasons a house extension, loft or basement conversion can be the perfect home cinema choice.

When it comes to home entertainment, the image isn’t everything; sound plays just as much an important role. Subwoofers, sound bars and speakers arranged perfectly so as to get the very best from the room’s acoustics are all part of the audio element. Again, when it comes to acoustics, a professional’s advice can make all the difference.

TYPE OF SCREEN

If you really want the authentic cinema experience, then some rows of tiered movie seats is certainly one way to go. Add popcorn holders in the armrests and the look is complete. If you want something even more relaxing, however, there are plenty of options available. Luxury furniture that is both comfortable and stylish, with built-in storage, drinks holders and iPod speakers is perfectly tailored to suit the movie-watching experience.

Your screen size needs to be in proportion with the size of the room. This is very important, as many people make the mistake of simply going for the largest screen available on the assumption that this alone will provide the perfect cinema look and feel. Most people choose not to sit on the front row at the cinema; because it can be uncomfortable looking at too large a screen for a long time. There is also an optimum distance between a projected image and the human eye for those grainy pixels to not be visible. For the real cinema experience, a flat screen with a projector is unbeatable. Most dedicated film fans agree that plasma TVs provide a more cinematic viewing experience than LCD, which is backlit and so performs better in rooms that have plenty of natural light.

HOME CINEMA SYSTEMS The potential and sophistication of home entertainment systems is almost limitless. Whether you are looking for a HD projector or a wireless home cinema that also includes a centralised hi-fi system, this is an area that is worth investigating in detail, particularly if you have the funds to really go to town. The Custom Electronic Design and Installation Association is an ideal first port of call for information and advice. Their membership includes thousands of installers and designers of home entertainment systems, who can advise you on the best options for your requirements. 106 MARCH 2020

CINEMA ROOM SEATING

LIGHTING If your room is really going to have that authentic cinema ambience, it is essential that the lighting is right. Make sure the room you use has either no windows, or windows that can be completely blacked out, and think carefully about how much light the room will need. Dimmer switches, floor lights and sidelights are all part of the mix in creating that night at the movies. If you really want to make it as realistic as possible, you might also consider curtains that can be drawn back from the screen. Ideally, these and the lighting will be adjustable via remote control.

Hand Forging Magic In Hertfordshire…

ucked away in the quiet, quaint Chiltern Hill’s is the ever-evolving Elliott of London studio. Behind the doors are a small team of craftsmen creating some of the most enticing sculptures. On one of the workshop benches, one of the clever team is creating a stunning copper rose, another is working one of the unique & quirky commissions that have come in for the team to sink their teeth into. There is a busy hype in the workshop today & the studio is ramping up for their up & coming Spring Studio Open Day. Elliott of London was created & founded by Charles Elliott, who is now an internationally renowned British sculptor making a serious mark on the scene & industry. Charles works closely with his small team of dedicated craftsmen to push the boundaries, crafting bespoke handmade bronze & metal sculptures. Charles’s passion to break sculptor boundaries is clear & I’m looking forward to attending the Spring Studio Open Day to see what new creations they have. The Spring Studio Open Day is open to everyone, the gates will open Saturday 4th April & Sunday 5th April at 9.30am – 4.30pm both days. Not only will you be able see all the sculptures up close & personal, there will be a selection of

local stalls with handmade crafts, gifts & local made goodies. There will demonstrations, displays & talks through out the day so you can see Charles & the team in action, purchases & commission conversations will be welcomed throughout the day.

THE DETAILS For more information on Elliott of London & our Spring Studio Open Day please look at: Spring Studio Open Day: 4th & 5th April 2020 www.elliottoflondon.co.uk Instagram or Facebook: Elliott of London – British Sculpture Email: info@elliottoflondon.co.uk Studio: 01494 758896 Elliott of London, Bluebell Farm Shootersway, Berkhamsted Hertfordshire HP4 3GW

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SV Tile Solutions: Finding the perfect tile

rying to find your perfect tile can be a time consuming and frustrating exercise, especially if you require different tiles for multiple rooms. Walking into a tile showroom you are confronted with a vast array of tiles in both large and small formats with countless different colours, textures and finishes. Where do you start? What tile will work best for you? What is the tile made of and will it be suitable to use within the required area? Do the tiles come in different sizes and finishes? How do prices compare between tile showrooms? What technical information do you need to know? Do you have to buy samples to take home and are these samples full size (this is essential to give you a clear idea on the variation of patterns inherent within each tile range)? On the other hand, people can spend a long time browsing through numerous websites. But due to variations in computer screen resolutions, and the quality of the images of the tiles, you are never sure the tiles you are viewing will offer the solution you are after. It is almost impossible for someone to give you sound advice solely over the phone, so you will have to order a number of full size samples and there is normally a cost involved with this, whether it is the cost of buying full size sample tiles and/or the cost of shipping the sample tiles to you. In many ways the tile industry is archaic and has not responded to changing buyer trends by providing a more convenient, professional and customer orientated buying experience. Having spent over 12 years running a large retail tile showroom, advising customers on all types of design solutions for a wide range of both domestic and commercial projects, I am all too familiar with the problems buyers are confronted with. So, it was

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only natural to change direction and devise a more convenient way for customers to find their ideal tiles, and at the same time ensure the prices customers pay are the most competitive available in the market. As a general rule, customers pay the most for their tiles through a retail tile shop or kitchen and bathroom showroom. This is largely due to the business overheads being higher than tile suppliersâ€™ operating solely online, which traditionally is where you will find tiles at the best prices. Now there is a third way. SV Tile Solutions operates as a mobile tile showroom. We have direct accounts with selected manufacturers of quality tiles, so we are able to tailor solutions to meet the most exacting of specifications and requirements. We carry a large number of samples in our mobile showroom, but if none of these samples are what the customer is looking for we will gladly go through the factory brochures to select alternative full size samples and deliver them free of charge. In essence, the customer has nothing to lose by asking us to meet at a time and place of their choosing. No more trips to showrooms in miserable weather conditions, or being stuck in traffic jams with the kids in tow. We guarantee you will be not be disappointed in the quality of the tiles we supply; you can keep full size samples free of charge and you can be assured you will not find our quality tiles cheaper anywhere else. Indeed, we guarantee our prices will not be beaten. Why not call us for an informal chat to see if we can help? You are assured of a friendly, professional approach at all times, along with genuine references from many previous customers who have willingly endorsed the quality of our tiles, our highly competitive prices and quality of service. www.svtilesolutions.co.uk

â€œSV Tile Solutions operates as a mobile tile showroom. We have direct accounts with selected manufacturers of quality tiles, so we are able to tailor solutions to meet the most exacting of specifications and requirementsâ€?

FF M O O LE ew % RO SA r n 50 W Y fo es O LA ay g SH ISP w ran D ake avit m ur to D

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

H OUSE & GARDEN

Designers To Watch in 2020: Patricia Urquiola Words: Anna Howell, Chaplins

Patricia Urquiola is perhaps the most famous female designer alive today. And yet for all the awards and accolades, it’s her intense energy that distinguishes her from the rest of the field. It’s a quality she can be relied upon to bring to every project that she undertakes — be that re-energising iconic hotels or reimagining the future of outdoor living. As part of the Chaplins’ Designers To Watch in 2020 series, we sat down with Patricia to talk politics, artistic challenges and all things Cassina.

financial or class. A dream would be designing behaviours, to improve the quality of our daily life, while simultaneously improving the impact that these have on our surroundings.

What’s your greatest challenge as Art Director of Cassina? I have a great respect for the brand, my aim since 2015 is to bring a contemporary way of doing things and to project Cassina towards the future without forgetting its glorious past. I want to be sure that the brand will continue to have its “experimental” spirit in order to enrich its broad archive. My role is not about creating and commissioning new items but also discovering how to keep Cassina alive and evolving. Does the political Zeitgeist influence the way you design? Or are they two separate things? Not only the political agenda, in my work I like to reflect and observe the whole society. I observe everything; I need to understand where contemporaneity is going. Designers and architects need to observe the social scene to come to a tangible synthesis. Today, for instance, we cannot design an object without taking into consideration its impact on the environment. As recently exhibited at the Triennale di Milano, we’re left with a “Broken Nature”, we’re more conscious than ever of our problems and we’re ready to really change our habits and our consumption. So, my work cannot be limited to, for example, the selection of eco-compatible materials, but it needs to re-imagine every aspect of the entire production cycle and transport. It’s important that we designers work together with the companies to facilitate all of this. It is, of course, a long process. What does your dream commission look like in 2020? I can’t answer this question precisely, I am lucky enough to work with many different companies, developing diverse projects for many years now. I’m currently working on my personal exhibition in Madrid, of course the art direction for Cassina and other projects for Milan Design Week in April 2020. I can say, however, that my mind is always busy to find feasible solutions for an optimistic future, dedicating myself to defend any kind of diversity and reduce any kind of gap either gender, social,

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Interiors Editor

Are there any trends or ideas from the past year that you’ll be taking with you into the new decade? I have never believed in trends; I care more about creating empathy and the sense of place and time. I start each project with a blank page and try to visualize every user’s need and develop everything based on this. Every brand is unique with its own history and a very different way of working therefore I create a different relationship and dialogue for each client. When you’re not in the studio working, where can we find you? I like going to the cinema and visiting museums with my family. It’s a sort of continuous research for my work. I’m also a bookworm, I love to read; frequently I find ideas and clues that I apply to my design projects. I’m often travelling for work; it has become indeed an important part of my life. When I’m abroad I love to dedicate some time, unfortunately not very much, for myself to get in contact with other cultures, visiting exhibitions, small museums or simply walking around. Travelling is an important source of inspiration for me. Ibiza has been my family’s summer escape since I was a little child. Though it has changed a lot, it was an island of freedom full of artists and hippies; very different from Oviedo, my birthplace. I guess it was a sort of first source of inspiration with these free ideas. Each year I go back to the island and disconnect from the world to enjoy my family. Feeling inspired? Don’t miss the opportunity to pop by our showroom where we have a range of Cassina and Patricia Urquiola designs on display. You can also stay tuned with our Designers To Watch in 2020 series via the Chaplins Furniture blog — your first point of call for all things interiors. Chaplins Furniture, 477-507 Uxbridge Road, HA5 4JS (www.chaplins.co.uk)

H OUSE & GARDEN

Fabulous floor show

To put on a fantastic floor show in your kitchen or bathroom, start by looking at the construction of your existing floor and make sure it’s suitable for the type of flooring you’ve got in mind. Heavy materials such as stone or terracotta tiles need a solid concrete base. If you’re laying a floor over wood, go for lighter materials such as lino, vinyl or wooden floorboards VINYL FLOORING Comfortable and warm underfoot, vinyl is one of the most cost effective flooring options and comes in a range of colours and patterns. For a durable surface that won’t fade, choose a vinyl with the colour running through - those with surface patterns tend to develop a patchy look over time. Your supplier can advise you on the correct grade for your kitchen and, if you have the budget, have it installed by a professional, as badly fitting vinyl will peel at the edges. To keep it looking pristine, sweep it regularly and clean with a non-abrasive cleaner.

STONE OR SLATE Consult an expert if you’re thinking of using stone or slate on a kitchen floor as its porous nature means it can stain easily. It’s also one of the most expensive floors you can buy, but it will add value to your home. To reduce the risk of staining, go for the less porous slate rather than marble or limestone and make sure you have it professionally sealed. Look at travertine too – a natural stone made in Italy from calcium carbonate. It has a pitted appearance, comes in many colours and stands up to most cleaning products, making it the durable choice. If you have kids and pets running around, natural stone may not be the best option for you.

LAMINATE This is a great, cost-effective option that creates an authentic, real wood plank effect at a fraction of the cost of the real thing. These days, you’ll also find stone and ceramic tile effects too. Laminates are tough so they’re ideal for busy households with lots of traffic in the kitchen. To create the appearance of real wood floorboards, choose a laminate with bevelled edges that form a v shape between the planks when they’re butted up together. Even better, this flooring is designed to be clicked together so there’s no need for messy glue and you can even lay it yourself if you’re a competent DIYer.

“A real hardwood floor is expensive, but will add value to your home”

HARDWOOD A real hardwood floor is expensive, but will add value to your home. Treat it with a Polyurethane finish to make it easier to maintain and clean. Wipe spills up quickly though, as any water sitting for a length of time on the floor will result in warping. Unlike laminates, if your floor gets damaged, you don’t have to replace the boards – you can simply sand them down and treat them again.

CERAMIC TILES A popular choice for kitchens as they come in so many colours, textures and patterns allowing you to create your own unique look. You can even use a central colour and create a tiled border all around to frame the floor. Remember though, you need a solid concrete base for tiles as floorboards would shift underneath and cause cracks to form. Ceramic can be cold underfoot so consider installing underfloor heating. Choosing your kitchen flooring is as crucial as choosing the overall theme for your kitchen, so consult a specialist designer for further advice. 112 MARCH 2020

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