Life Magazines (Buckinghamshire editions) May 2018

THE BOODLES 2018 Stoke Park Club, Park Road, Stoke Poges, SL2 4PG Tuesday 26th to Saturday 30th June

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

Giggling Squid is now open in Beaconsfield!

Located in the Old Town – locals will be treated to a very competitively priced lunchtime Thai tapas menu and an extensive evening menu. Street food style snacks and carefully curated cocktails are also available in the exclusive separate lounge and bar.

Bluecoat House, Saw Close, Bath BA1 1EY www.gigglingsquid.com @gigglingsquid

22 London End, Beaconsfield HP9 2JH 01494 Bluecoat House, Saw Close, Bath BA1 1EY 730 919 www.gigglingsquid.com

@gigglingsquid

Bluecoat House, Saw Close, Bath BA1 1EY www.gigglingsquid.com @gigglingsquid

MONEYHILL.indd All Pages

MONEYHILL.indd All Pages

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

D i s t i n c t i v e

I n t e r i o r s

Experience Classic English Elegance

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

D i s t i n c t i v e

I n t e r i o r s

Experience Classic English Elegance

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

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

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

28/10/2015 18:49

To request a portfolio or speak to

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

28/10/2015 18:49

25/01/2018 15:12

CONTENTS OUT & ABOUT

13

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

43

LUXURY HOME RENOVATION & INTERIORS GUIDE

67

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

From a small home improvement to a full scale renovation, our guide features the best local interior designers, builders and tradesmen to create the perfect home.

0844 800 8439

www.thelifemagazines.com

The Berkeley – your new favourite place Berkhamsted’s number one Wine Bar and place to eat – as rated on Trip Advisor

Art

Private Hire

Enjoy the constantly changing display of contemporary art and sculpture in our Wine Bar

Engagements, birthdays, whatever the celebration we tailor to suit your requirements and budget Business Meetings, network events, product launches – we create the perfect environment for your needs

Events Wine Tasting evenings – pre-booking a necessity to avoid disappointment. Why not book your own private wine tasting...?

Fabulous food Delicious hot and cold dishes served all day

Wine Fabulous fine wines available by the glass from innovative hi-tech wine cabinets Assistance in selecting the right wine from our own sommelier 32 fine wines by the glass plus champagnes, cocktails, spirits and beers

39-43 Lower Kings Road Berkhamsted Hertfordshire HP4 2AB • 01442 878300 To join the mailing list email to hello@theberkeley.com • www.theberkeley.co

out & about – We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month – I M A G E : T H E R OYA L AC AD E M Y O F A R T

OUT & ABOUT

The Royal Wedding Afternoon Tea at Stoke Park Celebrate the Royal Wedding in style and enjoy an exquisite Afternoon tea, especially created in honour of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle!

The Royal Wedding Afternoon Tea will include: • Selection of Scones with Strawberry and Champagne Jam, Lemon Curd and Clotted Cream • Selection of Cakes: English Fruit Cake Shortbread Wedding Dress Trio of Macaron ( Red, White and Blue) Pink and Cream Battenberg Kir Royale Jelly Chocolate and Marshmallow Whoopie Pie • Selection of Sandwiches: Smoked Salmon with Caviar Cream Crayfish and Wild Rocket, Roast Beef, Watercress and Horseradish Jubilee Ham and Piccalilli, Cucumber and Cream Cheese Tomato, Avocado and Mozzarella with Pesto A glass of Champagne and your choice of a wide range of teas and coffees. £55.00 per person The Royal Wedding Afternoon Tea will be available 18th – 20th May 2018. To book please contact Reservations on 01753 71 71 72 or email reservations@stokepark.com www.stokepark.com

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OUT & ABOUT

Leadbetter Golf Academy lands at Stoke Park!

S

toke Park has been selected to become the European Headquarters for the world famous Leadbetter Golf Academies. The new look Golf Academy will launch in May this year alongside the recently redesigned Lane Jackson Golf Course.

David Leadbetter has been renowned as the leading Golf Instructor worldwide for nearly 30 years. David’s students have won 18 major titles, with his most notable successes coming with Nick Faldo, Ernie Els, Michelle Wie and Lydia Ko. He has also been the author of many best-selling golf instruction books ranging from ‘The Golf Swing’ which was first published in 1990 through to his most recent offering ‘The A Swing’ which was published in 2015.

David currently coaches at the Leadbetter Golf Academy World Headquarters in Champions Gate, Orlando but will be a regular visitor to Stoke Park through the summer months when he will be providing members and client clinics and supporting the existing Golf Academy Coaching Team.

In anticipation of launch the Golf Academy, the Stoke Park coaches have been undergoing the Leadbetter Certification Process since February.

The Certification Programme encompasses 12 levels from studying David’s theories through to Mental and Physical Fitness for Golf. It will be sure to enhance the level of coaching delivered at Stoke Park and ensure that students experience long term benefits to their game.

Upon completion of the Certification Process, Stoke Park will boast the highest concentration of Leadbetter Certified Instructors in the world. There are also plans in place for continual learning that will ensure the level of instruction delivered remains at the leading edge of Golf Coaching.

The most recent addition to the Academy facilities includes a brand-new tour spec short game area which will also open in May and provide the

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Golf Academy Coaches the opportunity to deliver first class short game instruction.

For more information about hosting a Golf Clinic at Stoke Park, please do contact the Events Team on 01753 71 71 71 or email sales@stokepark.com. To book an individual lesson in the Academy please contact 01753 71 71 84 or email golfacademy@stokepark.com. www.stokepark.com

“David Leadbetter has been renowned as the leading Golf Instructor worldwide for nearly 30 years”

OUT & ABOUT

SaySay.Love: The Matrix of Water 11-12 May Elite London Event, Wycombe Air Park, 21-26 May Coningsby Gallery, London W1

A

rtist SaySay.Love was born in Berlin and now spends half his year in Cape Town, South Africa. It was here that he, along with over three million other residents, recently experienced the worst drought in the city’s history. “Being European, water shortages are outside my life-experience. Until now water has always been in abundance, something that I took for granted, an almost invisible resource, like air.” He said. The drought changed all this and inspired the artist to embark on a journey of discovery into water itself.

SaySay.Love spent six months photographing water across the world, from Africa to Poland, in settings varying from oceans and rivers to inside plumbing and bottles. The resulting series of images show the artist’s interpretations of the mercurial structure and beauty of water and its integral relationship to environment.

“For me, photography is both an intentional and a 1 8 M AY 2 0 1 8

spontaneous medium. My works strive to disseminate the idea that water has a memory and force us to look back at the past (as birth), and ahead to the idea of the waterless future as death itself. But it’s not that simple and clear cut. Water shapes history.

It is a record imprinted in nature. Bodies of water, like photographs, contain memories, cultural and biological. Maps do not present merely a visual space, they are interactions between the existence and non-existence of water: Green lush landscapes with flowing rivers, to warm-coloured dry arid terrains. They allow for culture to flourish and the historical record of habitation and migration. In dendrochronology trees reveal historical imprints of water allowing us to discover the history of droughts and weather patterns. An abstract documentary of seasons in the truest sense. The existence and nonexistence of water, the micro-printing in seasons, as ring patterns are translated through secular patterns.

Such abstraction, visual and complex, I aim to capture in photography.” – SaySay.Love SaySay.Love’s body of work includes photography, video, social activism, installation and wearable art. The artist is partially sighted in one eye, a condition from birth that prevents him from seeing in three dimensions and effects his perception of depth, speed and distance. It is a limitation that he says has added to his visual appreciation of the world and is one of the reasons he took up art as a career. For his recent series of photographic works, he has dropped the traditional camera in favour of the iPhone as he sees it as the tool of our times, in both photographic and emotional terms. He enjoys the spontaneity that it affords that allows him to respond to immediate heart-felt moments. He takes photographs while travelling and during his daily life. Shortly after taking the photographs he works on the images using modern imaging techniques, in a process he equates to an artist using a paint brush. SaySay.Love then prints the images through various methods in his studio and outside, onto paper, fabric or perspex.

THE DETAILS SaySay.Love The Matrix of Water 21-26 May 2018 Open: Monday-Friday 9am-6pm, Saturday 10am-4pm Venue: Coningsby Gallery, 30 Tottenham Street, London W1T 4RJ Email: info@coningsbygallery.com Tel: +44 (0) 20 7636 7478 Web: www.saysay.love www.facebook.com/saysayphoto/ www.instagram.com/saysay.love/ YouTube: Saysay Love SaySay is exhibiting at The Elite London event this weekend. Held at Wycombe Air Park tickets can be booked here: www.theeliteevents.com/london

OUT & ABOUT

“How do we get in?”

Discover The Waterfront Enclosure During Henley Regatta 2018

T

hese were the words on everyone’s lips last year during Henley Regatta 2017 as they discovered the exclusive Waterfront Enclosure on the banks of the beautiful River Thames.

Located by the iconic start line opposite Temple Island, The Waterfront Enclosure hosted by exclusive event and catering company The Wild Fork is emerging as the place to be seen at the most Edwardian of English summer season events.

Returning by popular demand for a third year, the eye-catchingly stylish stretch tent and idyllic English country garden add style and atmosphere to a perfect summer’s day out, either for entertaining corporate guests, rewarding your employees or for gathering friends and family for an unforgettable treat.

Arrive mid-morning in time for a Great British brunch with a chilled glass of champagne or a classic Pimms, delicious pastries, fresh juices, miniature English breakfasts with healthy granola, yoghurt and fruit compote pots on offer too.

Friendly, attentive staff are on hand to ensure guests quickly unwind with live jazz playing softly in the background.

From 12.30 pm onwards, a four course lunch is served, a British-inspired menu with European influences, shared across banqueting tables with views of the rowers racing down the river and the team of chefs impressively working the wood-fired ovens.

Expect overflowing wooden platters of gin and elder cured salmon as well as rabbit rillette, duck liver parfait, smoked pigeon and celeriac remoulade to start. To follow, mouthwatering lamb with delicate orzo READER pasta, vibrant spring greens, tzatziki OFFER: SAVE and freshly baked flat breads and deliciously tender chicken from The Thoughtful Producer accompanied

by Israeli couscous, heritage tomatoes and tabbouleh. A delightful selection of miniature desserts and a fine cheese board will complete the feast.

The quality bar supported by Chase Distillery will deliver good, honest drinks using the best ingredients. Stocked with thoughtfully selected wines, spirits, summer cocktails and craft ales, the free bar remains open for the rest of the day offering full waiter service.

After enjoying a game (or two) of croquet, retire to a perfect spot in the garden to indulge in a decadent afternoon tea.

Tickets are selling fast so see booking information and take advantage of an exclusive reader discount of 10% off. Please quote WELCOME10 when booking.

10%

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Experience the very best hospitality during Henley Royal Regatta.

The Waterfront Enclosure during Henley Royal Regatta 2018 Wednesday 4th July – Saturday 7th July 2018 10.30am – 5.30pm Pricing and all-inclusive package details: Wednesday £249.00 + vat Thursday £289.00 + vat Friday £299.00 + vat Saturday £249.00 + vat Price includes: • Delicious brunch • Tea, coffee and fresh juices • Traditional Pimms or Champagne • Full bar all day • Four course lunch • Afternoon tea and artisan treats • Unique enclosure • English country garden • Croquet lawn • Stylish seating area • Kitchen theatre • Wood fired oven • Live music • Live rowing commentary • Free car parking • Complimentary regatta programme The Waterfront Enclosure has a relaxed ‘smart casual’ dress code.

Bookings available by telephone on 01635 200 200 or by email to jaz@thewildfork.co.uk The Wild Fork The Old Cart Shed Haw Farm Hampstead Norreys Berkshire RG18 0TP www.thewildfork.co.uk

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OUT & ABOUT

The Boodles 2018 Tuesday 26th to Saturday 30th June players. The Boodles truly is the perfect way to entertain your clients!

With World no.4 Sascha Zverev, Juan Martin del Potro and Nick Kyrgios already confirmed and with past players which have included Novak Djokovic, Rafa Nadal, Andy Murray, The Boodles will bring you closer to the action! More stars to be announced soon too!!

If you would like to experience our exquisite Hospitality packages or buy a Stadium Pass ticket, please contact the team on 0207 384 4877 or visit www.theboodles.com.

2018 sees the 17th year of our annual tennis event, The Boodles.

This intimate event has become one of the sporting highlights of the summer social season and it is not to be missed! Experience a day of sumptuous luxury, with Perrier Jouet Champagne and a gourmet lunch prepared by Stoke Park’s award-winning chef Chris Wheeler, or take a stroll through the Boodles Gallery and view some of the finest jewellery craftsmanship from our title sponsor, and be entertained by world’s best tennis

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WIN THE ULTIMATE BOODLES EXPERIENCE!!

We are giving away the Ultimate Boodles experience, an opportunity to experience the day in the finest of styles!

To be in with a chance of winning the prize below, you need to buy a ticket for this year’s Boodles. If you have already bought one, don’t worry- everyone who has already bought a ticket will be entered into the prize!!

• A day in the Players Enclosure at The Boodles on Saturday 30th June for two people • An overnight stay in one of Stoke Park’s luxurious rooms on Saturday 30th June • Dinner for two in Humphry’s, Stoke Park’s fine dining restaurant which has been awarded 3AA rosettes with all food prepared by our award winning Chef Chris Wheeler.

• A Magnum of Belle Époque from Perrier Jouët.

• A photo opportunity with one of the tennis stars appearing before you • A pick-up from your home and drop-off in a luxurious Audi Car To book please visit www.theboodles.com

OUT & ABOUT

Tu 19th – esday Sa 23rd Juturday ne

LIKE NOWHERE ELSE On a Tuesday in June each year the clock strikes two and so begins the Royal Procession, with Royal Landaus led by four Windsor Greys marking the opening spectacle of five days of world-class horse racing, high fashion, pageantry and Fine Dining.

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A

mongst the tradition, the fashion and the colour, racing still remains at the heart of Royal Ascot. But a day out at the Royal Meeting is about so much more than simply some of the most prestigious racing on the calendar.

Complemented by Royal Ascot’s unique sense of style and history and supported by some of the sporting world’s finest facilities and dining options, a day here is a truly atmospheric experience to remember.

Each day has its own personality revolving around six top-class races, so choose a combination of a day and enclosure that best suits your tastes.

As a good tip serious racing fans recognise that Tuesday and Wednesday boast some of the highest quality racing, while discerning social racegoers often favour Royal Ascot on these days too, preferring the more relaxed pace to the bigger crowds later in the week. Thursday boasts the iconic Gold Cup, whilst Friday and Saturday provide a chance to revel in the weekend party atmosphere.

Make an exciting occasion unforgettable The Right Location

Fine Dining Innovation

Each enclosure at Royal Ascot offers great views of the racing and delicious food & drink, yet each has its own individual character.

2018 sees four new Fine Dining restaurants join the Royal Ascot line-up for 2018; The Balmoral, The Windsor Forest, The Furlong Restaurant and The Gallery now form part of an expanded 15-strong portfolio of restaurants at the Royal Meeting.

Fine Dining options now range from five-course feasts and classic a la carte menus to all-day food service and interactive chef stations that still offer the same elegant experience but with a more relaxed and flexible approach.

The Windsor Enclosure Bring your own picnic and delight at close up views of the Royal Procession and exhilarating racing action from the Windsor Enclosure lawns. With more food and drink options than ever before, if you’re looking for a vibrant party atmosphere then this enclosure is the place to be.

Tickets £37 - £49 (Sat SOLD OUT)

The Village Enclosure Our first new enclosure in one hundred years, the lively Village lawns offer some of the best views in the house. Boutique restaurants, pop-up eateries and innovative bars are accompanied by an eclectic mix of music throughout the day. The celebration in The Village continues until 9pm, with live DJs and bands creating an atmosphere like no other.

Tickets Thu & Fri £67 (Sat SOLD OUT)

The Queen Anne Enclosure With raised views of the racing as well as an impressive choice of bars and restaurants, the Queen Anne lawns and terraces are wonderful places to soak up the magic of the Royal Meeting.

Enjoy an elegant lunch or afternoon tea, view the horses in the Parade Ring and take part in the much-loved singing around the Bandstand.

Tickets: £75 - £88 THE DETAILS Royal Ascot Tickets £37 – £88.

Visit ascot.co.uk or call 0344 346 3000 to book.

For fine dining availability please email hospitality@ascot.co.uk, visit ascot.co.uk/royal-ascot/fine-dining or call 0344 346 0346. @AscotRacecourse #RoyalAscot

The former Furlong Club will be transformed for 2018 into the light, airy and spacious Fine Dining Furlong Restaurant, featuring a combination of grazing and seated menu concepts, inviting lounge areas and an expansive, elevated deck running its entire length.

Michelin-starred favourites Raymond Blanc OBE and Phil Howard return as Chefs in Residence for The Panoramic and On 5 Restaurants respectively, as two new celebrated chefs also make their Royal Ascot debut. Adam Handling of Frog by Adam Handling and The Frog E1 will head The Balmoral, a brand-new restaurant inspired by summer in the Highlands and celebrating the best of British food, with fresh Scottish seafood, Royal Estate beef and locally-sourced cheese featuring on the menu. Two Michelin-star chef Simon Rogan will delight discerning race-goers with his curated menu in The Greenyard.

Always special - with menus presented beautifully, carefully paired with finest Champagnes and wine and served in exclusive surroundings - it’s little wonder that Fine Dining packages are in high demand, so those looking to dine in style at Royal Ascot this year will need to book soon to avoid disappointment. Remaining admission-inclusive packages start from £329 + VAT per person.

Queen Anne Enclosure casual dining options will be open for walk up bookings on the day, including James Tanner’s Queen Anne Kitchen and the 1768 Grill & Tea Rooms, the latter featuring a short menu including lobster, steak and traditional afternoon tea.

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OUT & ABOUT

Join The Art Party at the New RA T

he Royal Academy of Arts, the world’s foremost artist and architectled institution, celebrates its 250th anniversary year throughout 2018. Following a transformational redevelopment designed by internationally-acclaimed architect Sir David Chipperfield CBE RA and supported by the National Lottery, the new Royal Academy, open to the public from 19 May, reveals historic treasures from the RA Collection, the work of its Royal Academicians and the Royal Academy Schools, alongside its world-class exhibitions and events programme.

The Royal Academy’s north-facing entrance, Burlington Gardens

Collection Gallery in 2018

Michelangelo’s Taddei Tondo

Highlights include: • A new link, the Weston Bridge, connecting Burlington House and Burlington Gardens, to create a two acre-campus and route between Mayfair and Piccadilly.

• Dedicated galleries and new spaces presenting free displays of art and architecture for visitors to enjoy year-round, exploring the RA’s history in training artists as well as showcasing contemporary works by Royal Academicians and students at the RA Schools.

• A new 250-seat Benjamin West Lecture Theatre providing a hub for conversation and lively debate with an exciting new programme of events, festivals and in-conversations, while the Clore Learning Centre offers a permanent home for the RA’s learning programme for schools, families, community groups and adult learners.

Celebrate the opening of the New RA at our weekend long art party, with free workshops, tours, displays and late night performances and DJs on 19 and 20 May. www.royalacademy.org.uk 2 8 M AY 2 0 1 8

Architecture Studio in 2018

OUT & ABOUT

NEWS FROM CHORLEYWOOD BOOKSHOP Here at the Bookshop the months of May and June are busy, busy, busy as we have lots of amazing events just for you!

F

irstly can you think of a better way to spend a Summer’s night than Pimm’s in the garden at Chenies Manor House with bestselling author Ruth Hogan? No, neither can we! On Wednesday 16th May we will be celebrating Ruth’s delightful novel ‘The Wisdom of Sally Red Shoes’. Filled with a cast of wonderful characters, both ordinary and charmingly eccentric, who guide us through a moving exploration of the simple human connections that make life worth living.

You are invited to join us for a night of poetry, stories, hedgehogs and humour with a woman who needs no introduction… Pam Ayres on Tuesday 29th May at Dr Challoner’s (Girls School) High School. For over 40 years Pam has been sharing her incredible work with the world, she is a writer, broadcaster and entertainer. She has performed all over the UK, in Australia, New Zealand, Dubai, Hong Kong and now she is coming to CHORLEYWOOD! Pam Ayres will be performing from her latest collection of poems, ‘The Last Hedgehog’, a delightful and thought-provoking elegy to that most beloved inhabitant of the British countryside. Don’t miss this chance to see one of the nation’s favourite

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THE DETAILS Tickets available from www.chilternbookshops.co.uk/ events and from Chorleywood on 01923 283566 or Gerrards Cross Bookshops on 01753 885429

poets at what is sure to be a sell-out event.

Lastly as we enter into June the weather (will hopefully) be improving and the warm Summer nights will leave you wanting for evening like no other and a first for Chorleywood Bookshop… enter Kim Hughes on Monday 4th June, 7.30pm.

Kim Hughes is the most highly decorated bomb disposal operator serving in the British Army. He was awarded the George Cross in 2009 following a gruelling sixmonth tour of duty in Afghanistan, during which he defused 119 improvised explosive devices, survived numerous Taliban ambushes and endured a close encounter with the Secretary of State for Defence.

This isn’t just another Afghanistan memoir but also a book about science, bombs, and what happens to the human psyche when every day you go to work might be your last. For one night only we will see what life was truly like for troops on the ground and experience a first-hand account from a soldier who faced danger with every step he took on enemy terrain.

With so many fascinating and remarkable events we have something for everyone and can’t wait to see you there.

The Swimming Pool DeSign & ConSTruCTion SPeCialiSTS Contemporary • Reliable • Experts Indoor, Outdoor, Refurbishment, Maintenance

Contact us now and begin planning your spring project.

01932 569569 info@lagoonpoolsltd.co.uk www.lagoonpools.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

Chef Laurie Gear

May recipe & kitchen news

M

ay sees the English asparagus season in full swing allowing us to make full use of this delicious bounty. At the restaurant we pair it with some toasted

crumb, truffle and freshly picked morels and serve with an herb emulsion. This simpler recipe makes for a perfect light lunch or supper dish served with some warm crusty bread.

RECIPE: New Season English Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce, Bacon Powder, Pata Negra Ham

Serves 4

Ingredients: • 2 bunches new season English asparagus • 3 medium sized free range egg yolks • 250 g block of unsalted butter melted • 1 bay leaf • 3 black peppercorns • 2 tablespoons of white wine vinegar • 4 slices pata negra ham or quality cured ham • Juice of 1 lemon • Salt and pepper • 100 g pancetta diced fried and allow to dry for 24 hours • Salad leaves to garnish

Spring Five Course Lunch Tasting Offer To celebrate the arrival of Spring we invite Life Series Readers to sample our Five Course Tasting Lunch With a delicious complimentary white peach Bellini finished with Crème de Peche on arrival Experience the culinary theatre of the open kitchen and view Laurie and his team in action at the Pass, with our five course tasting option This fabulous value tasting lunch offer is available from Tuesday to Friday lunchtime until the end of May 2018 for just £38 per person

**please mention ‘Lunch Offer’ when making your reservation**

Dressing • 4 tablespoons water • 1 table spoon of sugar • 1 table spoon of white wine vinegar • 1 stick of lemon grass chopped • 1 star anise

Method: Dressing 1. Bring all ingredients to the boil, allow to infuse for 2 minutes then strain and reserve the liquor Asparagus 2. Trim the asparagus, blanch in boiling salted water for one and half minutes and then plunge into iced water

Chefs Tip

If you apply a little pressure with your thumb and fore finger on the stem of the asparagus it will snap naturally at the point where the tender flesh meets it more woody counterpart so that you are left with the most succulent part for the eating.

Hollandaise 3. On a low heat melt the butter in a heavy bottomed pan.

Meanwhile warm the vinegar, bay leaf and peppercorns and allow to infuse and then strain 4. In a food processor whisk your egg yolks until light and fluffy add two teaspoons of your warm vinegar liquid and gently pour in your melted butter leaving any milk solids behind in the pan 5. Keep whisking until a smooth mayonnaise like consistency is achieved add salt lemon juice and pepper to taste 6. Turn the dried pancetta into bacon crumb by mixing it on full speed in a food processor 7. Next heat a little olive oil and butter in a frying pan and roll your asparagus tips to warm, remove from heat and spoon over a little of the dressing 8. Roll the asparagus ends in the bacon powder 9. Arrange on a pretty plate with the pata negra ham, salad leaves and a spoon or two of the hollandaise sauce

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

Bar-B-q season!

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

OUT & ABOUT

with Pranee Laurillard Founder of Giggling Squid

P

ranee, the story goes that yourself and your husband created your first Thai Tapas menu in the basement of a cottage in Brighton back in 2002. With that building then becoming your Brighton restaurant, The Giggling Squid has certainly come a long way. Tell us what inspired you to start off in the restaurant business It’s funny because the things that inspired me to open a restaurant was not just the food itself but creating a Thai experience, with subtle décor less intense that what we’ve seen with other Thai restaurant offerings, and to make the surroundings stand out as much as the food Where does your inspiration come from for the dishes that you serve?

My mum and the travels we made in Thailand.

Some are from coastal towns and others are inspired by the night markets What is your favourite dish on the menu?

I have so many favourite dishes dependent on how hungry I am. When I am very hungry I would go for beef rib and coconut sauce. If I’m looking for something light then it would have to be the be Pamelo and cigama salad.

The Beaconsfield restaurant is interesting and quirky with lots of different spaces for people to eat. Tell us more about the atmosphere that you like to create within your restaurants?

We wanted to create a space that people could enjoy being surrounded by and perhaps enjoy a new setting each time they come. The wooden beams and chandeliers on the first floor create an elegant yet rustic setting whilst the ground floor has a floral theme to bring the outside in. We have a relaxed bar with a comfy sofa for pre-dinner drinks or even a cup of tea For someone who has never tried Thai before, how would you describe the menu?

The menu is designed to suit the whole family.

We’ve got the classic Thai dishes of course but with the seasons we like to update the menu and be adventurous too using unusual Thai ingredients and creating dishes we hope our customers will love Where did the name come from?

It’s the nickname of one of our three children!

Last count was 24 restaurants. That’s

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“We wanted to create a space that people could enjoy being surrounded by and perhaps enjoy a new setting each time they come”

impressive! What do you look for in a town and building when starting the plans to open a new restaurant?

We look for buildings with character that we can embrace and simply put our Giggling finishing touches too. In terms of towns or cities, we look for places where can make a difference, somewhere that has something about it, think of a town that is surrounded by nice places to take a dog for a walk, a lovely wood where kids can ride bicycles or a market that sells fresh local produce If you eat out, where do you like to go?

I have lots of different cuisines, from the Vietnamese noodles to some the beautiful fish restaurants in Cornwall Where do you get your ingredients from?

Fresh Thai herbs and unusual Thai veg directly from Thailand What do you like to cook for yourselves and family at home?

Noodle soup made from bone marrow stock.

What would be your three top tips for running a successful restaurant chain?

Eye for detail on service, good food and charming decor Is the sky the limit? Do you have a target for how many Giggling Squids there will be?

My target is to make brilliant restaurants and the rest will follow www.gigglingsquid.com

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10% off New Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze membership applications received during May 2018. *Ts & Cs apply **prices correct at time of going to publication but subject to change

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OUT & ABOUT

Are you fully informed about your

service charges?

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ervice charges for a residential property that you’re renting should never be a mystery. Elliott Brookes, a property litigation solicitor from B P Collins, highlights how a landlord must always be reasonable and fully transparent with their costs by law.

The relationship between a landlord and tenant can be fractious. Sometimes, this is down to a tenant not being fully aware of what their service charges cover – which is a payment in addition to their rent - or the costs for work carried out on the property are presented to a tenant without any advance notice. However, if each party knows their rights and responsibilities, the relationship should be a lot smoother.

Tenant protection While the landlord is entitled to recover service charges that it has properly incurred, most tenants are protected from excessive fees under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985. In fact, the Act says that the landlord has to be reasonable with their service charges and specify how far in advance that they require payment.

The landlord must also consult with tenants before entering into a long-term service charge agreement for more than 12 months or if they wish to carry out works above a cost threshold of £250. The works also have to be to a reasonable standard, whether that’s day-to-day repairs, planned maintenance or major improvement works.

When to refuse There are instances where the tenant may be able to refuse to pay service charges if the landlord has not been transparent about the costs or has missed the 3 6 M AY 2 0 1 8

deadline to request payment. For example, tenants do not have to pay service charges unless the landlord includes key information in their demands. Also, tenants do not have to pay the cost for work done to the property, if they were incurred more than 18 months before the landlord requests payment.

Seek advice Even though you’re a leaseholder, you still have the right to know what is going on and what works are being done in the property that you’re living in, particularly if they will be at your expense.

The law is there to protect tenants from excessive payments and dishonest demands from landlords.

It is always worth asking a solicitor to review your tenancy agreement before signing to avoid any nasty surprises or hidden costs in the long run.

THE DETAILS Please contact Elliott for further advice on 01753 279035 or enquiries@bpcollins.co.uk

Visit our NEW London Colney branch, located at: 72 High Street, London Colney, St Albans, AL2 1QN. We are open Mon-Fri 8.30-5.30pm and Saturdays 9-4pm.

May Bank Holiday hours are 10.30-4pm.

Pop into store or call us on 01727 225140 for expert advice on a new purchase or about servicing your existing machine.

OUT & ABOUT

Why Beaconsfield is in the good books “One of the town’s most notable residents was G.K Chesterton’s who lived here for over 20 years while writing his Father Brown Series in his study”

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small town, with a long list of literary and film connections, Beaconsfield has inspired authors, creators and directors alike. One of the town’s most notable residents was G.K Chesterton’s who lived here for over 20 years while writing his Father Brown Series in his study. G.K Chesterton lived in Top Meadow on Grove Road, which now has a blue plaque to mark his residency.

Chesterton was celebrated for his paradoxical writing and best known for his Father Brown books, which follow a catholic priest detective. The books were turned into a television series, which recently ran its sixth season on BBC One. Often spotted walking around in a long cloak, the author and poet has inspired local developer Shanly Homes’ latest development: Chesterton Manor.

Located opposite Top Meadow on Station Road, Chesterton Manor offers a stunning mix of 11 two bedroom apartments. The development benefits from being a 10-minute walk from Beaconsfield Station in the New Town and less than a five-minute walk from the heart of Old Town which has an array of boutiques and trendy eateries including the Crazy Bear Hotel.

The show home which opens in May, nods to Chesterton’s literary legacy with quotes on the walls from his famous books. These fabulous new homes boast, underfloor heating and modern fitted kitchens integrated with Siemens appliances, some of which can be controlled via Bluetooth. Select apartments provide outdoor space with either a Juliette/glass balcony or terrace/patio and has its own private allocated parking, some benefiting from car-ports and garages. With reservations already taken off-plan, now is your opportunity to buy a superb property in 3 8 M AY 2 0 1 8

one of the UK’s most desirable locations.

From murder mystery writer to children’s author, Beaconsfield has been home to all. Enid Blyton, the creator of Noddy, made her home Green Trees in Beaconsfield a world-famous address. She wrote 21 Famous Five books whilst living there, as well as all the Secret Seven and Adventure series. Her book Enchanted Village was based on Bekonscot Model Village and Railway.

The oldest and original model village has sparked the imagination of many great minds and became the setting for the debut murder scene in ITV’s Midsummer Murders. This led to Beaconsfield becoming the most filmed location for the show, despite the town’s notably low crime rate. This attraction has even brought royalty to Beaconsfield, with multiple visits from Queen Elizabeth.

Another author who could be seen around Beaconsfield town was Sir Terry Pratchett.

Although educated in High Wycombe, Pratchett spent most of his time reading and learning in Beaconsfield Library, which now commemorates his time there with a plaque. Since publishing his first book The Carpet People, Pratchett became a successful author, who went on to receive an OBE. Other authors that lived in Beaconsfield include Alison Uttley and Robert Frost.

With The National Film and Television School in Beaconsfield town, residents are likely to be walking amongst future stars of the film industry as well as the literary. Alumni including David Yates, who directed four of the Harry Potter films, Dario Marianelli, composer of films such as Atonement and Pride and Prejudice and many more. This small town could quite easily create its own “Beaconsfield Walk Of Fame”.

THE DETAILS For prices and availability at Chesterton Manor please call Tim Russ & Company on 01494 681122 or email beaconsfield@timruss.co.uk. For further information on Shanly Homes and its developments, please visit: www.shanlyhomes.com or call 01628 301211.

OUT & ABOUT

Beaconsfield Town Crier helps launch K J Smith Solicitors’ new office W

e are delighted to announce the opening of our new office in historic Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire. The new office, located at Cross Keys in Beaconsfield Old Town, is the firm’s eighth with offices now in Henley on Thames, Reading (Woodley), Windsor, Basingstoke, Guildford, Abingdon and London. The team at Beaconsfield had been working from a temporary office whilst the building works at Cross Keys, a listed building and former historic Inn, were finished.

Pictured above: Beaconsfield Town Crier Dick Smith, who has held the position since 1969 Commenting on the opening of the firm’s eighth office, Partner and Founder Kerry Smith said, “We were delighted that we had such a great turnout of local businesses who joined us in celebrating the opening of our new office at Cross Keys. It is wonderful that the team can now settle into their lovely new office and we are looking forward to continuing to provide our approachable, professional and caring service to people in Beaconsfield and the surrounding areas”.

“We were delighted that we had such a great turnout of local businesses who joined us in celebrating”

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“K J Smith Solicitors are recognised by the Legal 500 guide to law firms in the UK as a leading family law firm’”

Pictured above: K J Smith Solicitors’ Beaconsfield team with the Town Crier, from left to right: Pam Saran, Kerry Smith, Monika Gill, Matthew Thom and Sharan BhinderDhonsi Our Beaconsfield office is located in the Old Town, approximately 1 mile from the M40 junction and around 30 minutes’ walk from the mainline station. The office is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5.30pm and, to help those with busy schedules, we also offer appointments outside normal office hours – until 9pm on Thursdays and between 10am and 3pm on Saturdays.

K J Smith Solicitors are recognised by the Legal 500 guide to law firms in the UK as a leading family law firm. The firm offers free 45 minute consultations and in depth advice on all aspects of family law, including Finances and Divorce, Children and Residency, Nuptial Agreements, Grandparents’ Rights and Cohabitation Agreements. We also offer Wills, Trusts and Probate services.

THE DETAILS For more information or to arrange a free 45 minute consultation at our Beaconsfield office, please call our team today on 01494 629000.

fashion, HEALTH

& beauty – Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – i m age : M AYA M I K O

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Join the Club… with Stoke Park’s fantastic Gym and Health Offer!

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oin Stoke Park’s world class Gym and Health Club in May and receive two complimentary PT sessions!!* Stoke Park is very much more than just a gym, it is a lifestyle choice and members enjoy fabulous benefits throughout the Club, including a packed full calendar of wonderful social events and discounts on food, drinks, spa, bedrooms and events!

To find out more please contact the Membership Team on 01753 71 71 79 or email membership@stokepark.com www.stokepark.com *Terms and Conditions apply.

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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Spring Bliss Spa Day at Stoke Park Come and escape in pure serenity and enjoy Stoke Park’s Spring Bliss Spa Retreat, featuring special Thalgo Koh Tao treatments!

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heir luxurious Spa is situated in The Pavilion, which offers a haven of luxury, indulgence and serenity, with facilities that include an indoor heated swimming pool, changing rooms with Italian marble steam rooms, deep relaxation room, a private atrium with stunning five metre tropical aquarium, outdoor Scandinavian Sauna and hot tub, nail bar, boutique and 13 multi-surface tennis courts.

Offer Includes: • Full use of all Health, Tennis and Spa facilities • 2 course spa lunch • A gift to take home • 2 x 55min treatments from the selection below: Thalgo Koh Tao Facial Thalgo Koh Tao Body Massage Thalgo Ultimate Body Exfoliation Thalgo Back, Face & Scalp Treatment Thalgo Rebalancing Back Treatment Thalgo Nurturing Mother to be Massage Thalgo Pregnancy Ritual Margaret Dabbs Supreme Manicure Margaret Dabbs Supreme Pedicure

Thalgo Koh Tao treatments are inspired by a captivating fragrance journey and traditional Thai massage from the heart of the gulf of Thailand.

The facial is a relaxing haven of hydration for the skin including cleansing, exfoliation, massage and mask for the skin whilst the body massage is a true invitation to inner peace and calm offering a moment of total plenitude inspired by traditional Thai massage.

THALGO treatments are renowned for their incredible results. Thalgo harnesses the riches of the sea so you can benefit from powerful healing, revitalising and rebalancing properties vital for health and well-being.

Margaret Dabbs treatments are globally recognised and specialise in credible, results driven manicure and pedicure treatments for both men and women which will provide effective, long lasting anti-ageing for both hands and feet. £155 per person. To book please contact our Reservations Team on 01753 71 71 72 or email reservations@stokepark.com. www.stokepark.com. Valid until 30th June 2018.

Valid Monday to Friday only.

(Excluding bank holiday Mondays) 4 6 M AY 2 0 1 8

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Tropical Vibes

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he accent colours of ink blue and lime exude pure summer flair.

Prints with tropical plant worlds, cool pattern mixes and sporty inspirations give the collection an ultra modern look from Luisa Cerano. Statement dresses with carmen neckline, casual loose-fit dresses, paper bag trousers are the must haves for the summer. Modern cut-outs, sophisticated Sleeve solutions and on trend knot and ribbon details create the couture fashion flair.

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

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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

[NEWS]

BEAUTY & FASHION SUMMER STYLES

MAKE IT MARBLE We’re so obsessed with this NEW Coconut Lane Make-Up Bag. Seriously chic and sophisticated, the White Marble Print bag has a hot pink lining. £14, www.coconut-lane.com

If you are looking to wow this summer these new offerings from Mayamiko are just the ticket. Perfect for lounging around in the sunshine, this bright yellow top is made from printed lightweight cotton, ethically sourced.

The Grace Top (far right) is an easy-to-wear summer essential, with a twist! Featuring a floaty open back, Grace is perfect for a day out in the city or a trip to the beach. Versatility at its best! It features a square neck line and floaty open back with thin neck straps. www.mayamiko.com

BAG A SUMMER ACCESSORY As summer approaches it’s time for a new handbag!

We love this mini bucket shoulder bag in black leather, with glitter top. It features a black pin, adjustable black leather straps and an inner pocket.

You can use your Maria/Maleta mini bucket choosing your favourite side, just pull the strap over to the opposite direction. £134, oostor.com

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wEAR IT WILD

“Using no stitching and made from a single piece of folded leather”

vintage look, modern twist This is Bond & Knight’s first origami wallet, inspired BY 1950’s vintage design. Redesigned to give it a modern twist. Using no stitching and made from a single piece of folded leather the Bond & Knight Mk1 is slim, stylish and strong, whilst comfortably holding 10 cards plus cash. www.bondandknight.com

Really Wild’s collections are designed to be lived in, they are as practical and comfortable as they are elegant and timeless.

They move effortlessly between town and country, combining the best of British heritage with the most enduring of British style.

Sleeveless Dress with Tie Belt in Red Ditsy £185. 105 High Street Marlow SL7 1AB www.reallywildclothing.co.uk

Just White Luisa Cerano Marccain Weekend

by Maxmara Repeat Oui Brax Odd Molly Monari Gina Bacconi Michele Ortigia Hultquist Stylesnob Wolford Dubarry

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

GOK WAN:

WAKE UP YOUR WARDROBE We chat to Gok Wan about boosting your look for the new season.

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harismatic, outspoken Gok Wan - who found fame presenting hit TV show, How To Look Good Naked - is surely the go-to man for advice on fashion. After all, he’s been advising women on how to feel and look better for more than a decade. With and all the exciting new looks and styles about to hit the shops - we’ve asked him for his advice on refreshing your image and waking up that wardrobe.

Take time for personal reflection “Have an honest relationship with your mirror so you understand your reflection and how it’s changed. Always look at yourself from all angles and decide what are your best points - they’re the ones you want to play up,” says Gok. “If you’re trying a dress on in a shop, ask whoever’s with you to take pictures and you can then have a coffee and look at them before you buy - it can help avoid expensive mistakes.”

Keep your hair in shape “If you’re feeling you’re stuck in a rut and need to revitalise your look, invest in a good hair cut and, if necessary, a colour. Do your research first so you find a salon and hairdresser who’ll be prepared to talk about what you want, what they think will suit you and what will work with your hair type.”

Edit your wardrobe “Spring’s a brilliant time to give your wardrobe an edit.

Organise everything by putting it into compartments for work wear, casual wear and formal wear,” he suggests, and remove anything you don’t wear or doesn’t fit. “When clothes don’t fit they make you feel bad about yourself.

The simple rule is, if you haven’t worn something for three months, you should put it in a bag or store in another wardrobe. If you by the end of six months you still haven’t used any of those pieces, donate them to charity.”

Feel free to wear what you want “There are so many pressures nowadays on women to look a certain way. Its awful - I really hate it,” Gok declares. “Women should be cut a break and you should be able to wear what you want to wear. “I see my role as saying, ‘If you like it, wear it 5 2 M AY 2 0 1 8

and enjoy your life, but I can advise on how to wear it and make it suit you’. At the end of the day, you should just be able to enjoy fashion and have fun with it. Also, fashion and style have no relation to age, so if you’re in your seventies and love Topshop, wear Topshop, frankly it’s up to you. Equally, if you’re in your twenties and want to wear full-on vintage, don’t be afraid to.”

Choose three key styles and a new colour “Every year there are thousands of designs, not to mention all the new trends, and it can be very confusing for people,” acknowledges Gok. “To overcome that, make a point every season try to identify three ‘looks’ that most appeal to you and then start building your wardrobe around them.

This will give you have a clearer idea of the style you’re trying to achieve for yourself and also give you more confidence in your clothes. For another wardrobe lift, consider shaking up the colours you wear. Start introducing a different colour slowly through accessories, as well as make-up. Go for block colours or prints, and build up gradually until you feel more confident to really embrace a new shade.”

Gok Wan has teamed with American Express to uncover hidden gems and local small businesses. Visit amexshopsmall.co.uk.

The art of natural hair extensions

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rabella Rose is a boutique salon located in the picturesque town of Amersham, a stone’s throw from the station and just 30 minutes from central London.

Specialising in hair extensions only, they are custom made for each client to match both their colour & texture, perfectly ensuring the most natural looking extensions.

Arabella Rose use only the highest quality human Russian hair which is soft and light and can also be re used many times.

The attachment technique they use is safe and kind to the natural hair and no heat or glue is used. Their custom made micro rings are applied and selected depending on the clients hair thickness and strength, avoiding any unnecessary

For a free consultation call Arabella Rose on 01494728648 or visit www.arabellarose.co.uk.

For examples of their work please see their Instagram account: Arabella Rose Hair

strain or potential damage.

The rings are small and virtually undetectable and feel and move just like the natural hair should.

This is one of the reasons for their popularity amongst celebrities and notable figures in the show business industry.

The Arabella Rose team of trained and experienced stylists take the utmost care every single time they remove and apply the extensions, ensuring that the natural hair flourishes.

A complimentary six week follow up appointment is offered to ensure everything is settling in beautifully, and to also check the clients natural shedding and growth rate.

At this stage a suitable and appropriate maintenance plan is determined for the individual client.

OUT & ABOUT FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Prediabetes = prevent diabetes All you need to know…

by Dr Mathi Woodhouse

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iabetes is a complex, progressive and multifaceted disease.

Probably a fact that is less well understood is that prediabetes is following in close pursuit and it (type 2 diabetes) is totally preventable. We all need to do something to stop this exploding disease to save lives and reduce complications.

There are currently 4 million people diagnosed with diabetes in the UK and this number is rising. 10% of the NHS budget is spent managing diabetes and its vast array of complications. As the prediabetes rates rise, we are looking at an exponential rise in prevalence of this problem.

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What is pre diabetes?

Pre-diabetes is a state categorised by a slightly elevated blood sugar. It is not quite high enough to call it diabetes, but these people are at risk of developing it if changes are not made.

If no action is taken, a third of people with prediabetes will develop type 2 diabetes within 6 years.

Out of 100 people with pre-diabetes who make ‘healthy lifestyle’ changes, only 13 will develop diabetes.

Doctors use a blood test called HbA1c to help us gauge whether a person is at real risk or not.

What is the HbA1c test?

It is a very useful blood test used to screen and diagnose diabetes and to pick up prediabetes. The test measures the amount of blood glucose attached to the haemoglobin molecule over the last three months. It does not vary with a specific meal type, or activity levels on the day the sample is taken.

Thus is more accurate overall.

For patients with diabetes, the higher the level of HbA1c the greater the risk of associated complications, such as heart, kidney and eye disease.

The normal range for HbA1c is less than 42 mmol/L. If you have diabetes it will usually be above 48 mmol/L. Between 42-47mmol/L we call this prediabetes.

A proportion of people who fall within this range will over time develop type 2 diabetes if they do not address diet and lifestyle accordingly.

This test can be done with your GP. What are the risk factors for prediabetes?

• Aged 45 and above • Being overweight – particularly if you carry your weight around the waist • Have a sibling or parent with diabetes • Had gestational diabetes (diabetes in pregnancy)

• Lead a sedentary lifestyle • High blood pressure • South Asian or Afro Caribbeans have an increased genetic risk for type 2 diabetes.

Diabetes UK have a useful website www.riskscore. diabetes.org.uk/start. Spend a few minutes calculating your risk and see where you could improve.

How can you prevent Type 2 diabetes?

Making changes to your lifestyle can delay or even prevent the development of type 2 diabetes and reduce the risk of heart disease too. It is possible to reverse out of prediabetes.

1. Keep your weight in a healthy range. Aim for a BMI between 20-25.

2. Eat a healthy diet. This is not simply about avoiding eating sugar. Increasing fibre, and limiting refined/processed sugars and fat intake can help prevent type 2 diabetes.

3. Keep active and exercising. Adults should be doing 150 minutes of aerobic exercise per week and strength exercises twice weekly. Try and get your heart rate up to a level to make you short of breath for 20 mins, this way we know your body is working!

4. Stop smoking and limit alcohol. Alcohol is high in energy and may cause weight gain, therefore sensible drinking is essential.

Think of prediabetes as a fork in the road: Ignore it, and your risk for type 2 diabetes goes up. Lose a modest amount of weight (5-7% of your body weight), adjust your diet and get regular physical activity, and your risk goes down.

If you are concerned see your doctor for further investigations and advice. #Preventdiabetes; www.your-doctor.co.uk; 0330 088 2020

The FuTure oF

Women’s healTh is here (and it’s got lasers)

Featured in the likes of This Morning and Cosmopolitan, new solutions for common women’s health issues are on the rise with laser vaginal rejuvenation leading the way in this revolution.

Whilst most menopausal symptoms like hot flushes will pass in time, vaginal atrophy symptoms such as loss of elasticity, incontinence, and painful sex does not. These symptoms can actually worsen over the years, causing a consequent decline in comfort, intimate activities and quality of life.

“It is important for women to realise that these symptoms are very common and now treatable with a non-surgical, non-painful solution” explains in-house Gynaecologist at MBA Clinics. This procedure is already very popular in America and Europe, I offer it exclusively at MBA Clinics who were the first to bring FemTouch to the UK. She goes on to explain that the most common cause of these symptoms is a decrease in oestrogen, which happens naturally as we age and will often exacerbate damage that may have occurred as a result of pregnancy, childbirth or other factors. Make no mistake, this does not exclude younger women who can be impacted by these symptoms too. In fact, over 80% of women will experience some vaginal atrophy symptoms during their lifetime.

Since these problems are so common and rarely talked about, we sat down with MBA Clinic’s in-house Gynaecologist to ask her more about this innovative new solution.

What exactly is Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation?

Essentially it restores your vagina to its younger and healthier functioning state, while also helping with bladder support to reduce incontinence symptoms. Using the leading CO2 laser technology, which is commonly used for facial rejuvenation, FemTouch stimulates growth of new, healthy tissue in the vagina.

By restoring a healthy and youthful vaginal environment, many uncomfortable systems or signs of aging simply disappear.

Surely a laser treatment must be painful?!

Not at all! The best part is that unlike other treatment options that have been available up to now, FemTouch is pain-free, non-hormonal with no side effects – it is a ‘lunchtime treatment’ so you can return to your normal daily activities immediately after.

The treatment itself takes no more than 15 minutes. A smooth, sterile probe is gently inserted into the vaginal canal, whilst the laser is operating there is a mild vibrating sensation, but no pain.

She emphasises that whilst it is a simple procedure, it is vital that you are treated by someone with specialist experience. “At MBA Clinics, each patient is carefully evaluated before the procedure. My experience in obstetrics and gynaecology gives me a good understanding of the complexities of these symptoms, so if we observe any unusual conditions we can address these prior to

treatment. If there are no issues then you can immediately proceed with your first treatment, as there is no advance preparation required”.

When will I see the results?

Most patients experience improvement within days of the first treatments, but the effects are more noticeable after a few weeks with the restoration of collagen, the improvement will continue progressively.

Our patients report extremely positive improvement in their symptoms, some describing it as life changing.

Is this treatment right for me?

Many common symptoms respond very well to this treatment including dryness, recurrent infections, incontinence, painful sex, loss of elasticity (tightness), itching, burning, and more.

I would encourage people to get in touch to learn more as a lot of people are suffering in silence, unaware that their symptoms can be treated.

Fem Touch is a very low-risk procedure and suitable for nearly all women presenting with vaginal atrophy symptoms, particularly for women with symptoms related to child-birth and menopause. We also provide a discount to patients whose symptoms are secondary to a preventative cancer treatment or due to any cancer-related surgery, therapy or medications.

For more information & to book a complimentary consultation contact the MBA Clinics team.

Beaconsfield: 0800 246 1333 • Maidenhead: 01628 675533 • Datchet: 01753 545333 info@mbaclinics.com • www.mbaclinics.com

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

KATE HUDSON ON ATHLEISURE

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The actress and Fabletics founder speaks to Katie Wright.

hile many actresses dabble in fashion design with the odd collaborative collection here or there, Kate Hudson has become a fully-fledged fitnesswear mogul with her hugely successful Fabletics brand - which later this year celebrates five years in business, and has just opened its first UK retail space.

“We like calling it a presence, because it’s not really one of our stores,” the actress explains, curled up on a chintz armchair in a posh London hotel (she’s in the city for the launch). “My best girlfriend here, Stephanie [Burrows], opened her new studio called POPfit, so it seemed fitting that I would put some of our product in there and have a presence.”

Fabletics now has 1.2 million members - who have signed up to get monthly deliveries of workout gear - and 24 stores in America, in addition to the UK opening.

So while Hudson, 38, was in town, we sat down with the actress and mum-of-two to talk all things fashion and fitness...

You’re launching the new Fabletics retail space in London at a time that’s pretty challenging for high street retailers - why now?

“For us, it’s a little bit different because we’re a

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digitally native brand. Being a predominantly online brand allows us to be able to take opportunities to test the market, and what we found was that when we strategically placed stores in places where we had a lot of activity, our customers became even more engaged. They wanted to go to the store, they wanted to touch and feel, they wanted the shopping experience. It’s something that actually grows our brand, it doesn’t take away from our brand. So it’s worked the opposite in a climate now where retail is struggling.”

This October will mark five years of Fabletics do you have ambitions for where the brand will be in another five years from now?

“Yeah, of course, shoot for the stars, right?! It’d be great in five years to be the biggest athleisure line out there! That being said, I think our focus, as much as it is on growth - which is important for any company - it’s really about perfecting our quality. Focusing on quality and fashion first is what we’re really all about, and we know that’s what our customer loves. So that for me is always the most important thing to focus on.”

A selection of Fabletics clothing is now available in store at POPfit studio (wearepopfit.com).

“Fabletics now has 1.2 million members - who have signed up to get monthly deliveries of workout gear - and 24 stores in America, in addition to the UK opening”

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

COVER UP TO KEEP SAFE THIS SUMMER There may be clouds in the sky but that doesn’t mean your skin is safe!

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hat’s the message skin experts are hoping to get across as summer approaches and people start shedding their shirts in an attempt to get their annual sun tan.

With Sun Awareness week taking place from May 14 to 20, dermatologists are taking the opportunity to highlight the dangers of spending too much time in the sun.

And they are keen to point out that it doesn’t have to be ‘a scorcher’ before people should start taking protective action.

“When the sun is blasting down everyone knows the drill by now,” explained Dr Crichlow a consultant dermatologist at Spire Harpenden Hospital.

“The danger is when there is cloud cover or a breeze that is making everything appear cooler.

Clouds reduce the amount of ultraviolet A and B radiation that reaches the earth’s surface and our skin, but they don’t stop the damaging rays. Clouds block more visible light than ultraviolet radiation,” she explained.

“Admittedly there will be ‘summer days’ when it is pouring it down with rain and the clouds are so thick and grey that your umbrella and raincoat should give all the cover you need but, basically, if you can see without artificial light, there is sufficient UV radiation and your skin is in danger.”

Government figures show skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the UK and rates continue to rise with at least 100,000 new cases diagnosed each year resulting in approximately 2,500 people deaths.

So how do you apply sun cream? A recent British Association of Dermatologists survey showed that 70% of people were not applying sun cream adequately. Dr Crichlow advises “sun cream (at least

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factor 30) should be applied at least 15 minutes prior to sun exposure and then reapplied every two hours.

Dr Crichlow added: “In the case of young children if it is warm enough for them to be playing out in shorts and tee shirts then the sun is usually strong enough to merit covering them in a protective cream or lotion. Please don’t forget that the sun is at its most intense between 11am and 3pm.”

“It is always better to be safe than sorry and my advice would be that if you are outdoors in summer take care. Just because you can’t feel the burn doesn’t mean you aren’t burning!”

Top tips for looking after your skin in the sun • Wear protective clothing – the tighter the weave the better the protection.

• Use SPF 30+ /broad spectrum UVA sunscreen and re-apply every two hours.

• Never use sunscreen to increase the amount of time you can spend in the sun.

• Wear on a wide brimmed hat that covers your ears and the back of your neck.

Dr Sharon Crichlow is a Consultant Dermatologist at Spire Harpenden Hospital who sees the full range of skin diseases in adults, specialising in skin lesions and moles, and treats inflammatory skin conditions, allergies and skin cancer. With regular clinics available at Spire Harpenden, Dr Crichlow provides a confidential and comfortable environment for all her patients.

To book with Dr Crichlow or any of our consultants, please call 01582 787 618 or visit her page on the website www.spireharpenden.com

Sharon Crichlow, Consultant Dermatologist

“Just because you can’t feel the burn, doesn’t mean you aren’t burning! “

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

advice from bucks psychology • What is the difference between a Clinical Psychologist and a Psychiatrist?

A Clinical Psychologist is a trained clinician who has their doctorate in Clinical Psychology.

They have a good understanding of mental health issues and engage in research, talk therapy and assessments. Psychiatrists are medically trained professionals who also do some forms of talk therapy, but often do medical assessments related to medication for mental health conditions.

• Why as new mums do some of us suffer from PND (Post natal depression)?

Being a new mum is hard work. Some of us suffer from PND mainly due to chemical imbalances and sometimes-supportive measures around us. When we are pregnant we have hormones in our body that we produce to sustain the pregnancy. After we deliver the hormones are still there and often increasing our emotional state.. In addition to that, lack of sleep, emotional disturbance from the changes of motherhood and the support we receive around us all impacts our mood. Our emotional state than promotes depressive and sometimes anxious thoughts. PND may not always be in our control.

• I am recently divorced and am finding it hard to move on. How would therapy help me?

Divorce can be traumatic for some. When we decide to get married we build an idea of marriage in our head. When a marriage ends so do some of 6 0 M AY 2 0 1 8

the hopes and dreams we have for our self. Therapy helps one process the loss of a partnership and a life imagined together. It gives you a safe place to “debrief ” from the events of the marriage and also to take a look at how the end of the marriage impacted you physically and emotionally. It gives you a safe place to talk about your feelings and possibly ownership to the end of the marriage. It gives you control.

• I have a history of sexual abuse and feel severe body pains. Could they be linked?

Sexual abuse is complicated and often leaves deep-rooted scars for many women and men.

Four out of five women and 2 out of 5 men have a history of sexual abuse. Therefore, it is more common than we think. When we are being abused some of us engage in a process called, “dissociation.” Dissociation in simpler terms may feel like an out of body experience. Some talk about it as going to their “happy place.”. Often years later individuals talk about bodily pain as a result of childhood sexual abuse. The mind and body are connected. Even if we believe we have worked through the trauma of the pain associated with the abuse our mind remembers. When we are going through the abuse our mind is always at a heighten state of “survivor” mode. Once our body is relaxed we may start feeling the physical ramifications that the mind avoided during the abuse. This may also explain why Fibromyalgia may develop years later for abuse survivors.

“Some of us suffer from PND mainly due to chemical imbalances and sometimessupportive measures around us”

THE DETAILS www.buckinghamshirepsychology .com Call us now on 0207 717 9022 info@ buckinghamshirepsychology.co.uk

If you can’t outplay them, out walk them! #walkwithus and age, ability or injury will NOT stop you FOOTBALL

Tuesdays 1pm-2pm, Court Garden Leisure Complex. £4.00 (with a leisure card) or £5.50 (without) including FREE hot drink from our café.

NETBALL

Tuesdays 2pm-3pm, Court Garden Leisure Complex. £4.00 (with a leisure card) or £5.50 (without) including FREE hot drink from our café.

HOCKEY

In partnership with Wycombe Hockey Club. No equipment necessary, given on arrival.

Tuesdays 6pm-7pm, John Hampden School outdoors.

Thursdays 1pm-2pm, Wycombe Thursdays 1pm-2pm, Wycombe £5.00 (with a leisure card) or Leisure Centre. £3.70.

Leisure Centre. £3.70. £6.50 (without)

Court Garden Leisure Complex: Pound Lane, Marlow SL7 2AE Wycombe Leisure Centre: Handy Cross, High Wycombe HP11 1UP John Hampden Grammar School: Marlow Hill, High Wycombe HP11 1SZ For more information please contact kirstywilliams@pfpleisure.org or to book contact Court Garden on 01628 405200

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

THIS MONTH’S SUPPORTER

JEFF WELLINGTON

This month, we look at the career and life of a former British Airways manager who has volunteered for The South Bucks Community Hospice for the past 18 years.

J

eff Wellington spent more than 43 years working for British Airways – but is still a high-flyer in retirement as an unpaid coordinator for the volunteer drivers at The South Bucks Community Hospice.

Jeff, 70, leads a team of 11 dedicated drivers who provide a vital service for patients attending the hospice based at Butterfly House.

The volunteers make over 700 trips per year – at a rate of 60 per month – to ferry people to and from the hospice in High Wycombe for nursing, physio and emotional support.

He puts in around 60 hours a month, both driving and co-ordinating. And his personal commitment is such that he even successfully planned and delivered the roster in advance for the team for five weeks in his absence when he and his wife, Margaret, recently went on a dream trip to Australia.

“Butterfly House is terrific. You feel the warmth when you come into the building and we feel as volunteers we are doing something really beneficial,” he said.

“The whole concept of volunteering is about giving something back and it’s nice to come in

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“Butterfly House is terrific. You feel the warmth when you come into the building and we feel as volunteers we are doing something really beneficial”

here and do something that helps. There is just something special about Butterfly House; you cannot put your finger on it, but it is unique.”

Jeff retired nine years ago from BA after spending his career working with the cabin crew – the last 12 years of which were as a cabin crew operations manager. Almost a decade before he retired, he linked up with the hospice and – after a brief spell in fundraising – became a volunteer driver.

Despite holding down a demanding full-time job, he still found the time to fit in his voluntary shifts at the hospice. In addition, Jeff was a member of the St John Ambulance Brigade for 40 years, joining as a cadet and ending up as the County Commissioner for three years.

Today, his hectic pace of life continues unabated, following his promotion to volunteer co-ordinator about five years ago. Jeff and wife Margaret, who live in High Wycombe, are both volunteer front of house staff at the Wycombe Swan theatre.

Margaret also helps as a volunteer at the Hospice at fundraising events.

He says the role of a volunteer driver is extremely responsible and is so important for the patients and the Hospice.

“You have a lovely relationship with the patients – you have the most amazing conversations with them, and we have an amazing relationship with the nurses,” he said. “Without the drivers, people would have to make their own way in. It is a vital link for the patients.”

Drivers use their own cars and have to be DBS checked. They can claim mileage. Although the team is currently very strong, more applications are always welcome.

“I never want to be in a position to say to the nurses that I need to cancel transport, and I would do that only as a last resort,” said Jeff. “We tend to get around any problems somehow, and the drivers are phenomenal and will all pitch in. However, we would always be pleased with more applications, so come and talk to us if you are interested.”

Jo Woolf, CEO at Butterfly House, praised the efforts of Jeff and his team, and said: “Drivers change lives. All of our drivers are unpaid, dedicated volunteers and they are the unsung heroes at the coal-face offering vital support to patients.” * If you are interested in joining Jeff and the volunteering team at Butterfly House, email volunteers@sbhospice.org.uk or call 01494 552761. www.sbh.org.uk

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

The joy of giVing

You could be a part of our new Community Hospice. There are so many ways that you could help us to make it a very special place: • Visit one of our shops in either Bourne End or Hazlemere • Donate your unwanted goods at any re-use site across Bucks for sale in our re-use shops at Aston Clinton and High Heavens • Make a regular donation, just £1 a month helps us to plan for our future • Hold your own fundraising event, or take part in a walk, run or skydive • Volunteer with us – even an hour or two a week will make a huge difference • Attend one of our events and bring your friends and family too

if you would like to know more then please call 01494 552 761 or email info@sbhospice.org.uk www.sbh.org.uk

follow us on facebook @SouthBuckshospice or Twitter @SBuckshospice To keep up to date with our current campaigns, events and opportunities visit www.sbh.org.uk

South Bucks Hospice is a Company Limited by Guarantee. Registered in England and Wales No. 6775584. Registered Charity No. 1128881 Registered office is Butterfly House, Kingswood Park, High Wycombe, Bucks, HP13 6GR

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Let’s Talk Implants BEFORE & AFTER

D

ental implants were regarded as the ‘last resort’ treatment option for people who could not get on with dentures.

We see it differently; for most of our patients we would consider dental implants to be the optimal choice of treatment for replacing missing or unsalvageable teeth. Many patients tell us that dental implant treatment has been life-changing – making a huge difference to their appearance and improving their self esteem. They are delighted at being able to eat, speak, and socialise with confidence.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a titanium, cylindrical, threaded fixture that is inserted into the jawbone to replace a missing root. The implant is then used as the foundation for the new crown. Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth or a full mouth with no teeth.

What are the alternatives?

Leaving a gap, a bridge or a removable denture.

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

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

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What are the benefits?

Replacing a single missing tooth is highly conservative treatment. Groups of missing teeth can be replaced with implant supported bridgework (eg. two implants can support a bridge replacing three to four teeth). Final implant restorations are usually made with a combination of computeraided design and 3D manufacturing technologies, and hand finished to produce a beautiful natural looking appearance. Implants are also brilliant at securing conventional dentures because there is no slipping or movement; the presence of the implant help slow the change in shape of the bone and gum where teeth have been lost.

Is it uncomfortable?

Implant surgery is a minor operation. Most patients would say it is less painful than an extraction, but our advise is to take it easy after the operation as some minor swelling and bruising can occur. For most patients simple pain killers are required.

Are they successful?

Dental implants produce predictable long term results and well maintained implants can be expected to last for many years and probably for your life time. Just like your own natural teeth, implants require regular follow up and professional cleaning by an implant hygienist as well as maintenance. Our hygienists are experienced in the care of implant restorations and on educating patients in how to care for them – this is an ongoing important commitment if you are to avoid implant problems later on.

Am I too old for implant treatment?

There is no upper age limit for our patients to undergo implant treatment, provided they continue to enjoy reasonable good health.

Who is suitable for dental implants?

There are no contraindications to implant treatment- you need to be in good health, and have sufficient height and width of jaw bone to hold and support the implant post. At Sorriso dentistry we can assess you and discuss whether this is an option for you. Habits such as clenching or grinding (bruxism), heavy drinking or smoking can increase the number of problems associated with initial healing which could have a negative impact on the long-term health of the gums or bone surrounding the implant. We may well decline to place implants if smoking cannot be reduced or given up altogether.

Are implants expensive?

Implants may seem expensive initially, but in the long term they are more cost effective without damaging the adjacent teeth and are placed by surgeons who have undergone post-graduate training. We have a great deal of experience, able to treat most cases, including those patients who have more challenging circumstances.

• Routine nail cutting and filing • Corns and calluses • Fungal nail and foot infections • Cracked heels • Ingrown, curved and painful nails • Thickened and split nails I treat and care for your feet in the comfort of your own home Tel: 07392 296 679 andreia.bryant@yahoo.com www.valleyfootclinic.co.uk

Having a live-in carer could cHange your life

In addition to providing hourly care we have a friendly and supportive team of live-in carers.

So having a live-in carer could really change your life.

Staying safe and comfortable in your own home is what most of us would like and with a live-in carer you will not have to worry about cooking your meals, getting your shopping or making your bed. our reliable team of live-in carers will also accompany you on visits so you are able to regain some independence, together with the confidence to remain in your own home. live-in care is also a very economical alternative to moving to a care home. Why not contact us for an informal chat?

9 Windsor End, Beaconsfield, Bucks HP9 2JJ 01494 678811 • www.universal-care.co.uk

THE LUXURY HOME

RENOVATION & INTERIORS GUIDE

Are you looking to modernise your kitchen, rip out the old bathroom or add a conservatory to create your dream home?

From a small home improvement to a full scale renovation, our Guide features the best local Interior Designers, Builders & Tradesmen to create the perfect home.

INTERIORS

KITCHENS

BATHROOMS

BEDROOMS

CONSERVATORIES

LOFTS

BASEMENTS

WINDOWS

DOORS

FLOORING

RENOVATION & INTERIORS

What can hydrotherapy do for you?

W

ater has been used as an effective natural treatment for pain and illness for thousands of years. However, many of us are still unfamiliar with the healing effects of a hydrotherapy pool and the hugely positive impact it has on our mental and physical wellbeing.

Origin, the UK’s longest established swimming pool company, has helped hundreds of families to bring the healing powers of a hydrotherapy pool into the comfort of their own home, as well as installing the world-famous pool at the Stoke Mandeville Hospital in Buckinghamshire. With over 35 years’ experience, the multi-award winning company answers some frequently asked questions about this life-enhancing choice.

What is hydrotherapy?

A hydro pool works by stimulating touch receptors on the skin using the motion of the water to relieve muscles. This type of physiotherapy was first discovered in 2000BC when ancient Egyptians 6 8 M AY 2 0 1 8

recognised the therapeutic benefits of bathing in warm water.

Over 4,000 years later, doctors and physiotherapists still recommend hydrotherapy as an effective treatment for a number of conditions.

What are the health benefits of hydrotherapy?

Hydrotherapy has many benefits, from treating major physical illness and injuries to improving general health and well-being.

A hydro pool can be invaluable in helping with muscular conditions such as arthritis, rheumatism, fatigue, back pain and other conditions caused by inflammation.

In addition, swimming and bathing in a hydrotherapy pool has been proven to help those suffering with long-term illnesses or those in need of pain relief. Hydro pools are often used to help physically disabled people and those with learning disabilities to exercise. It can also be used for rehabilitation by convalescent people.

“A hydro pool works by stimulating touch receptors on the skin using the motion of the water to relieve muscles”

Anna’s Story Our unique understanding of hydrotherapy made us the perfect choice for Anna’s mother Jan when she selected Origin to install a specially equipped hydrotherapy pool for her daughter.

Anna, who sustained a significant brain injury during birth and suffers from dystonic quadriplegic cerebral palsy, has enjoyed swimming from a young age. After trying hydrotherapy at a local swimming pool, her mother Jan realised that it could help improve her enormously, adding greatly to her strength and stamina.

Hydrotherapy is also an effective way for people of all ages to get fit and healthy and is proven to improve cardiovascular fitness, as well as strengthening and restoring muscles.

As well as its physical benefits, hydrotherapy can have a positive impact on a person’s psychological well-being and is proven to promote relaxation and reduce blood pressure. It also encourages the production of endorphins, a natural stress fighter, and can help to relieve anxiety and stress.

What do I need to consider when installing a hydrotherapy pool?

A hydrotherapy pool construction requires specialist design, knowledge and experience and must to be tailored to the needs of an individual. This will dictate the planning and design, the equipment required, and the water and air temperatures needed.

There may also be additional access and safety requirements to be considered.

At Origin, we believe it’s the smaller details that make the difference. We take time to understand how the hydrotherapy pool may help you, both now and in the future if your symptoms change.

Hydrotherapy water temperatures of 33°C to 34°C allows you to benefit from the heat of the water, from relaxing muscles and improving muscle length to reducing pain and muscle spasms. You can also enjoy water-based exercises to improve core strength, global strength, coordination and cardio vascular fitness.

Many of these benefits aren’t achievable at lower water temperatures, so a hydrotherapy pool design needs advanced equipment to manage the high levels of water evaporation in the environment to stop condensation, mould or deterioration of the building. While a hydro pool is crucial for pain relief and treating major physical problems, it isn’t just the water that’s important. For those suffering from certain conditions, the lighting, air heating, internal building finishes and even sounds can have an impact on comfort, and these are all considerations that we take into account during the planning process.

Finally, it is important to think about the maintenance of your pool once it has been installed. Your pool is for life, and we understand the maintenance this requires. For many of our customers, we look after this final stage of the process, from routine maintenance to emergency support, winter-proofing your building, and water health checks.

For full details of all Origin’s pools and pool houses or to ask any questions, get in touch with Origin on 01895 453996 or email info@originpools.co.uk

After consulting physiotherapists and her swimming instructor, it was decided that Anna should have a pool of her own in order to continue her therapy and Origin was a natural choice. Plans for the pool were submitted and accepted and the building was created at the family’s property alongside the family’s busy lifestyle.

Today, ready access to a suitable pool continues to have a positive impact on Anna’s life and she enjoys having friends and family round to enjoy the pool with her and her siblings. Although Anna will always have difficulties as a result of her disability, swimming remains a firm passion of hers and she feels stronger, fitter and more skillful in her lifechanging pastime.

Anna’s mother Jan summed up their experience of installing an Origin hydrotherapy pool: “Anna’s regular access to a pool has greatly benefited her quality of life, and that has made it all worth it.”

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RENOVATION & INTERIORS

Luxury Open Plan Living Comes to Beaconsfield

B

eechcrest has been carefully designed to offer the highest level of luxury and style, where each apartment meets the same impeccable standards while offering its own distinct character. We encourage potential buyers to visit these new Millgate homes as soon as possible, and see the grand apartments on offer.

The resplendent show apartment located on the ground floor of Beechcrest is bursting with style. Open plan living has become more and more popular over the past few years because it feels inherently sociable and inviting. The areas flow and connect seemingly effortlessly, and natural light is allowed to flood, uninterrupted, throughout the whole space. As a result dark corners and dead spaces are rare.

There is inbuilt flexibility within an open plan design that allows the space to be used in different ways at different times, from everyday living, entertaining friends or guests without feeling cramped, to engaging in hobbies and other pastimes or playing with the grandchildren.

In order to define areas for these many and varied uses, and also to harmonise the space, interior designers Alexander James Interiors have created “zones” to lead the eye on a journey allowing each zone to reveal itself, but also leaving something to the imagination.

Furniture has been carefully placed to define the different areas, ensuring that its scale is appropriate.

The snug zone has cream sofas, plush cushions, accessories and a feature wall in tones of warm metal. A cream console table creates a subtle divide from the rest of the space. A distinct area has been created in the dining zone by the use of a strongly contrasting black dining table and sideboards, however the whole thing is brought together by the accessories and lighting in warm metallics.

The use of soft textures, calming and sophisticated neutral colours accented with metallics make the most of the natural light, and also complement and harmonise with the bedrooms and hallway.

The master bedroom offers the ultimate in luxury, with interiors inspired by the deluxe hotel suite feel. Plush fabrics have taken centre stage, especially the floor to ceiling upholstered headboard. Each bedroom boasts a beautiful bright

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en-suite and generous fitted wardrobes. Each ensuite includes ceramic and porcelain tiling to walls and floors, chrome square towel radiators and large bespoke mirrors.

Warm palette colours have been used throughout the show apartment and attractive cornices have been included to soften the lines. Every apartment includes hard wired security systems and a video phone entry system at the entrance gates.

Beechcrest offers the perfect homes for people looking for the best of both worlds; with the wonderful benefits of country living but also close access to busy towns, including High Wycombe which is six miles away and Maidenhead, just a 25 minute drive. For commuters, Beaconsfield railway station is served by regular trains to London Marylebone with a journey time of 29 minutes, and also offers easy access to Birmingham Snow Hill. Travel further afield is also made simple, with junctions for the M40 and M4 each less than one mile away.

Prices at Beechcrest start from £1,425,000. For further information or to visit the show home, please visit www.millgatehomes.co.uk or call 01494 928 908.

“The resplendent show apartment located on the ground floor of Beechcrest is bursting with style”

RENOVATION & INTERIORS

THINGS YOU NEED TO CONSIDER BEFORE STARTING AN EXTENSION Decided to make your kitchen bigger, or tag on an extra room or two?

Faith Dunne runs through the groundwork.

Y

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ou’ve made your house a home, and now want to tag on some extra space - but is it really that simple? Extending offers great potential for transforming your home, adding value and much-needed room for growing families, but there’s a number of - important - things you’ll need to think about beforehand. If you’re dreaming of an extension, here are 10 things you should consider before getting started...

extension, it’s vital to make sure you have the correct planning permission. Although the majority of extensions can go ahead without seeking permission, in some cases (such as listed buildings or height restrictions), future plans can become halted. Referring to your local council’s website or to the ‘permitted development rights’ system is a helpful way to find out whether there are any restrictions in place that could hamper your plans before they’ve even begun.

1. Do you need planning permission?

Before you think seriously about starting your

2. Is there adequate access to your house?

It seems obvious, but it’s easy to forget how

“Make sure you and the builders will be able to gain access to the property”

RENOVATION & INTERIORS

important it is to make sure you and the builders will be able to gain access to the property. Maybe you have a terrace house, maybe you don’t have a driveway, maybe you’ve got low beams on your ceilings. From guttering to gateways, make sure you have all of the practicalities covered so that the work can feasibly go ahead. So, if you do have a terrace property, meaning all the building materials will have to be carried through the front door and house to wherever they’re needed, consider whether this is actually going to be possible. If you don’t have a driveway, consider whether there is enough parking for yourself and potential builders. If you have low or beamed ceilings, consider if there is an alternative route for building materials to pass through.

3. The conditions of your home’s surroundings You’re getting to the point of drawing up plans, but are you sure you’ve scrutinised everything about your home and it’s environment? Issues such as soil conditions, surrounding trees, and any history of flooding could cause problems with an extension, so you should make sure you’ve checked them out before you go ahead.

4. Avoiding cowboy builders We’ve all heard the horror stories about people paying thousands of pounds for building work that never got done. Don’t worry though, there are trustworthy builders out there - you just have to do your research. Has one of your friends done a similar project? Ask them for a recommendation.

Speak to people locally who might know a good, reliable builder. And don’t be afraid to call it quits if you’re having doubts.

5. Does the design suit your existing home?

According to renovation expert Michael Holmes, extensions should seamlessly merge into the original part of the house. However, that doesn’t have to mean matching materials exactly. “Choosing a different period style can work very well, designed as if the house has evolved over time,” suggests Holmes.

6. Have you chosen the best bit to extend?

You might already have somewhere in mind, but is this definitely the best place for the extension? It might make sense to demolish a garage or shed to make room for the extension, or perhaps build on top? “It’s usually more cost-effective to build over two storeys than one, because it spreads the cost of expensive elements, such as foundations and a roof, and sacrifices less garden space than a larger single storey,” says Holmes.

7. Keeping the neighbours happy Of course, you’re free to build your own extension in whatever way you like (providing, as mentioned, you have the appropriate permission!), but do bear a thought for your neighbours. Even if planning 7 4 M AY 2 0 1 8

permission is granted, it’s courteous to at least inform your neighbours about your building plans.

You’d be surprised about the number of neighbours who fall out over extensions, so be considerate and have a quick chat with them before work gets underway.

8. What it’s all going to cost Obviously, your location, the size of the extension and even things like soil conditions will all affect the overall cost of the work, but there are average figures which you can keep in mind. According to homebuilding.co.uk, you should allow around £1,000-2,000 per square metre. Depending on the number of storeys, the cost of an extension can range between £10,000-£50,000, says Jill McLintock, product manager at everest.co.uk.

9. How you’ll cope when the building work takes place The end product will look great - but the day-today logistics in the meantime can be tricky. “For a dust-free life, moving out and finding temporary accommodation can be one of the most hassle-free options, but that’s not always possible,” says Robert Wood, founder of SimplyExtend.co.uk. “If you do decide to stay in the property, it is likely you will have to navigate life - for a short period of time with dust, no kitchen, and occasional breaks to the power and water.” At least take all the steps you can to make managing the upheaval easier: Invest in dust sheets, move other belongings to storage, and even take the family out for dinner more often so you can escape the mess.

10. Don’t forget the building certificates Once the building work is complete and the extension of your dreams has become a reality, make sure you ask your builder or contractor for all the necessary certification, including building control certificates, electrical and gas safe certification. “Without these, it will be harder to sell your property later should you wish to,” says Wood.

“For a dust-free life, moving out and finding temporary accommodation can be one of the most hassle-free options, but that’s not always possible”

RENOVATION & INTERIORS

We love bathrooms, especially beautiful and spa-like ones where we can create our own little oasis at home. Whether you have your own bathroom retreat or are looking to create a new one, you’re just a few ideas, products, and steps away from the bathroom of your dreams

L uxury T ouches

B

athroom design has come a long way in the last 20 years. Whilst the importance of functionality remains; many more homeowners are now spending time and money to ensure striking aesthetics within their bathroom. Designer bathrooms are a common site in many homes and such a project can add real value to the property. If you are seeking to create a modern designer bathroom look in your home then the tips below will help you achieve that goal.

A STYLISH BATH The first bathroom suite item to deal with is the bathtub. This is the piece of furniture that you will get the most enjoyment from and it is important to ensure that it provides comfort to the user.

However, going for a practical model doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice style and there is a vast range of bathroom models, from twin baths that allow two people to bathe side by side, to corner baths that serve to maximise available space. If you prefer the more traditional rectangle shaped bath, there are still options available that provide that designer feel. Going for a separate tap installation also serves to create a unique look.

THE SHOWER OPTION Whether you have enough space to install both a bathtub and a shower, or prefer to just have the latter in your bathroom; your choice of design will

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have a huge impact on the room. Quadrant shower enclosures that fit into the corner of the room with an arc shaped glass enclosing the two sides, give an elegant finishing look to the suite. If you are planning to splurge on your bathroom and you have the space, you might like to consider a walk-in shower enclosure. Walk-ins give you greater mobility and access, and look grand as well as plenty of space to really relax and unwind. It is a good idea to have glass on as many sides of the shower enclosure as the bathroom allows. This will greatly help to increase the light in the room, which will in turn give the illusion of spaciousness.

AN APPEALING BASIN Although you probably consider the bath or shower

as being the most important of furniture in your bathroom, it is also the basin that acts as a central item in designer bathrooms. This is due to the fact that it will almost always have a mirror placed above it, which immediately draws the attention of anyone who enters the room. As such it is important to install a basin that looks fantastic. One option is to fit a vanity unit, with the basin sunk in so that it is flush with the surface. Alternatively you could add to the aesthetics by mounting the basin on top of the vanity unit and go for an unusual design, such as a funnel shaped basin. However, if you are going for an ultra-modern look and want to keep furniture down to a minimum, then a vanity unit may not be the right choice for you. In such instances a hovering sink with hidden pipes is a good option. If you have a big enough bathroom and enough wall space, you could even decide to go for the double sink, which not only look great, but are also useful in a busy household.

LUXURY TOUCHES Carefully coordinate your towels with the colour of the walls and bathroom suite. Add a stylish looking towel rail electric element to heat up the towels for added luxury, which also comes with an added advantage of warming up your bathroom. Decanting your soap and shower products into matching bottles is a simple way to create a stylish look in your bathroom. Coordinate other accessories such as the toilet roll holder and toothbrush holder. Get a sleek and stylish cabinet or matching boxes to hide away less attractive products or those you don’t want to show. A wellchosen bathroom rug, a potted plant in the corner, or a framed picture hung on an empty wall; small pieces which can completely revamp the look of your suite. Strike a balance by picking just a few significant pieces of bathroom furniture which will contain a certain colour. Offset it by choosing a neutral or contrasting colour in other accessories.

By ensuring that your accessories are attractive and functional, along with some good, soft lighting, you can create a calm and relaxing retreat, right inside your home.

RENOVATION & INTERIORS

[NEWS]

INTERIORS make it marine Heritage marine lighting manufacturer Davey Lighting combines industrial design, traditional craftsmanship and the finest raw materials. Authentic and unique, IP-rated exterior lights are hand-crafted in-house from the finest raw materials, with the same attention to detail required for their original industrial purpose. www.originalbtc.com

Pale and interesting

Whitewashed tones and organic materials lend a simple, earthy quality to Atkin and Thyme’s brand new collection.

Peppered with ethnic influences, light metalwork and rustic, sculptural woods, the latest range offers an eclectic, global take on the new season’s most palatable trends. Victoria Atkin, co-founder of Atkin and Thyme, says: ‘the beauty of Bohemian prints and textures, tribal painting, and the artistry of nature inspired us to curate a collection that we hoped would reflect a richly cultural, organic, and design-conscious aesthetic.’ www.atkinandthyme.co.uk

FABULOUSLY FRENCH

A beautifully classic French style bed upholstered in a contemporary cement coloured linen with double piped edging. Made from an ash wooden frame with sprung slats for increased mattress support, it is available in both king and superking sizes.

Mooring Manor Upholstered Bed, from £980; www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

FEATHERED Friends

With her elegantly extended neck and frou frou feathers, Fenella Smith’s leggy ostrich is the latest addition to the British designer’s marvellous menagerie. Working collaboratively with her BAFTA award-winning illustrator brother, storyteller Fenella’s imagined characters are brought to life by her sibling’s drawings.

Available in store from John Lewis and online at www.fenellasmith.com.

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DINNER TABLE COMPANIONS Chase and Wonder are proud to unveil their brand new range of fine china plates, available in both 8inch and 10inch designs. The plates work beautifully as part of a dinner service or grouped together as distinctive piece of wall art - a stylish addition to any home. www.chaseandwonder.com

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

info@spacers-uk.com

RENOVATION & INTERIORS

Rock around the clock DEEP SEA WALL CLOCK, £119

DEEP SEA WALL CLOCK, £129

Garnier Wall Clock, £99

ROCKET TABLE, £175 WWII COCKPIT TABLE CLOCK BLACK, £179

FIFTH AVENUE WALL CLOCK, £75

A

s British Summer Time starts on 25th March, why not spring forward in style with a new clock from Escapology. The lifestyle concept store has just added a huge range of distinctive clocks, each with their own style and unique story to tell. Perfect for keeping you punctual and your interiors stylish.

Get ready for the launch with the Rocket Table Clock, which would make a great gift for space enthusiasts. Featuring a retro dial and hands, it is made from polished aluminium and brass and pays homage to model rocket ships of the 1950s with its antenna and hatch windows. Or for those looking for a quirky, nautical inspired piece, the Diver Pendulum Clock would be the perfect choice.

Adding a wall clock to a room can instantly transform your walls and tie a theme together.

The Garnier Wall Clock is the perfect timepiece for an industrial styled space. Whereas the Fifth Avenue Wall Clock will add a traditional touch to 8 0 M AY 2 0 1 8

your interiors. This reproduction of a New York jewellers shop clock has a unique oval shape and is finished with ornate black hands to make a rather unusual and attractive item.

For those who like a little history behind their homeware, why not tell the time from a piece of war memorabilia. The WWII Cockpit Table Clock is cast from an original USAF aircraft steering yoke and features a vintage aircraft instrument dial and hands to accurately show time at a quick glance.

This would make a great gift for a budding historian or aviation enthusiast.

Or why not channel a nautical take on ‘Cold War chic’ with the Deep Sea Wall Clock. This replica of a Soviet submarine clock features a bold Russian red face, which lies behind a thick glass lens that is securely locked to the heavy aluminium case by the vintage solid brass knob; ideal for keeping your walls looking shipshape! www.escapologyhome.com

“Adding a wall clock to a room can instantly transform your walls and tie a theme together”

!

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We supply, install and maintain one of the most comprehensive ranges of wood burning stoves, fireplaces and gas fires in the area Call, Email or Visit:

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

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

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

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

RENOVATION & INTERIORS

Gate expectations When Shutter Spec Security introduce a new product range, you can expect the highest design and build quality. Stephen Dale reports on their new range of security gates.

A grand entrance.

Nothing sets off a lovely property better than a beautiful set of security gates. Shutter Spec Security have in recent years established an excellent reputation for their garage door and window security solutions. So, stylish security gates seem to be a natural addition to the Shutter Spec Security range of products.

Security features are a must (naturally), but just as important are aesthetics and build quality. Shutter Spec Security’s range of gates have all three in spades.

A

range of price options are available and their security gates are available in beautiful, robust solid wood and stylish metal. The metal gates can be powder coated in any colour to match existing garage doors, windows and so on.

As you would expect, all Shutter Spec Security gates are fully automated. You have various options available to open your gates. Simply drive up to the gates and press a transmitter, have them open automatically via a sensor or key in a code on the keypad from your mobile phone.

Health and safety issues apply to all products with moving parts and security gates are no exception. However you can rest assured the Shutter Spec Security team including Managing Director Andrew Levick have been rigorously assessed by the DHF (Door & Hardwear Federation) and are fully accredited.

The team are expert in installation and service.

Shutter Spec security run an optional service plan.

Worth considering if you want your security gates to operate safely and efficiently during their lifetime.

Security gates, the latest exciting addition to the Shutter Spec Security product range. Other products include:

Garage Doors Electronically operated or manual, you can choose from a space saving Roller Garage Door, a Sectional Garage Door for extra insulation or an Up and Over Garage Door.

“The SeceuroGlide garage doors are particularly impressive,” says Andrew. “They come with a range of extra security features such as a wireless wall switch that allows you to operate the garage doors from anywhere in the home. The extra insulation means the garage is warmer and they are available in a variety of wood finishes and colours as well as a Georgian style panelled option.

Commercial Security Shutters If it’s an office, a shop or clubs and pubs, Shutter Spec Security can provide the ideal security shutter 8 4 M AY 2 0 1 8

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solution for your business. Depending on the level of security required, they can provide security shutters made from steel or aluminium giving you the knowledge that your building is left safe and secure.

Domestic Security Shutters A wide range of extruded and foam filled aluminium domestic security shutters for your property are available with the aesthetics of your home very much in mind.

Fire Shutters Due to current fire safety regulations, Fire Shutters and Fire Curtains are now being regularly specified in different sectors. Hotels, Hospitals, Schools, Pubs and Sports Clubs are all now instructed to have these where there is a risk of fire spreading.

Shutter Spec Security currently offer one hour, two hour and four hour rated Fire products available in a Galvanised or Powder Coated RAL finish.

Retractable Window Grilles If it’s a domestic or commercial property you need to protect, Retractable Grilles are a perfect way to protect and deter intruders from your premises.

Available in X or S lattice, Shutter Spec Security can also offer an array of colours as standard.

From their showroom, Shutter Spec Security supply quality sales, installation and repair services across Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire and beyond. “We are more than happy to provide free, no-obligation quotes and we can visit your home or business for a detailed consultation,” says Andrew.

“We have a team of professional installers and we are usually able to supply and fit within a few weeks of our customers placing an order,” he adds.

Looking for some extra protection, Including their new range of entrance gates? You should secure the services of Shutter Spec Security.

Call in to the showroom, see the website or call 01844 212152. 6 Swan Walk, Thame, Oxfordshire OX9 3HN. Tel: 01844 212152 www.shutterspecsecurity.co.uk

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Vale ValeLife Life: :Feb/Mar Feb/Mar2018 2018

41 41

RENOVATION & INTERIORS

Everything but the kitchen sink

C

hoosing a stylish sink is just as crucial as the rest of your kitchen. Even if you and your dishwasher are joined at the hip, you’ll still rely on your kitchen sink for soaking your largest baking trays, washing out your most delicate glassware and rinsing your fruit and veg.

Although quality sinks can last 15 years or more, they do wear out. Finishes start to dull or chip, and annoying leaks appear mysteriously around the rim and drain. And if you’re planning a kitchen remodel, it makes sense to replace your sink and taps.

more workspace, and giving you a sleek look (but no drainer). They’re a no-no for laminate surfaces, as you won’t be able to seal the edges of the cutout. Inset or drop-in sinks are the easiest to fit, particularly if you have a wood surface - granites, slates and composites will need to be templated for the sink cut-out.

The plumbing for a new sink is fairly straightforward — there’s not a lot of choice involved. But how and where the sink is attached to the countertop is a decision you’ll need to make before you order your new basin.

You will be living with your new sink for a long time, so choose carefully. A well-made sink will last as long as you need it and maintain its good looks as well.

CONSIDER THESE FACTORS BEFORE BUYING: Size Matters Most people favour a one-and-a-half or two-bowl setup with a drainer, which lets you wash up and prep food simultaneously.

Materials Make sure you consider the materials before buying... Ceramic is enjoying a renaissance, being a materials with wow factor, but remember it can stain and scratch, so consider buying a sink mat for protection. Synthetic sinks are a better choice as they are more durable, reasonably inexpensive and come in a range of colours. Stone composites are even more hardwearing, and super-hygienic as they are non-porous. They also give you more choice in terms of colour and texture. Stainless-steel sinks score the most brownie points for practicality, easy maintenance and affordability, but modern designs can look out of place in a traditional setting.

Inset Or Undermounted?

As the name suggests, undermounted sinks are fixed to the bottom of the worktop, freeing up 8 6 M AY 2 0 1 8

“Ceramic is enjoying a renaissance, being a materials with wow factor, but remember it can stain and scratch, so consider buying a sink mat for protection”

RENOVATION & INTERIORS

Ornate Carved Wooden Console Table £1300 Double Layer Crystal Drum Chandelier £400

Dove grey linen Chesterfield £1200

a Unique interior design service from rebecca clark INTERIORS

R

Large Carved Wooden Mirror £850

Leather Directors Chair £450

8 8 M AY 2 0 1 8

ebecca Clark interiors specialise in sourcing furniture, lighting and accessories and offer a thorough interior design service from both their Berkhamsted and Hatfield House boutiques.

Offering a unique edit of contemporary and antique furniture to create enviable, luxurious homes.

Rebecca Clark Interiors was established in 2012, and now have two stores which also act as showrooms for the stunning furniture and lighting collections. Rebecca’s contemporary, classic interiors include luxurious homes and commercial projects including Day Spa’s and Hair Salons.

Rebecca Clark Interiors offer a personalised, relaxed interior design service and Rebecca designs each room personally with her team, and manages every project to ensure that clients are given the peace of mind that the very best result will be achieved and the project will be carried out seamlessly, on time and on budget.

“I take pride in offering the very best in Interior Styling, creating spaces and lifestyles that work for the people who live in them with pieces that will stand the test of time” Rebecca has been featured in lifestyle magazines ‘Woman & Home Magazine’, Hertfordshire Life, the front cover of the Welwyn Times Magazine and not least, winning an episode of ITV’s May the Best House Win and she was interviewed for BBC2’s Today Programme.

Rebecca Clark Interior’s Interior Design service is quite unique. There is no fee for the initial consultation, and a redeemable design fee of £250 which comes off of any purchases over the value of £1000, so effectively the ‘design process’ is entirely free of charge. “Our priority is to not use up our clients budget on paying for our time, instead we feel that we can make a clients budget work more efficiently by being used on actual items for the room instead. As a retailer as well as a design house, we have the unique opportunity to be able to do this, and for our clients to see the items before they purchase in one of our Hertfordshire based showrooms.” www.rebeccaclarkinteriors.com

Large Floor Standing Silk Orchid £425

Leather Oval Hanging Mirror £395

Leather 2 Drawer Desk £1200

Ivory Linen Love Seat £1050

RENOVATION & INTERIORS

CASE STUDY:

CEDARWOOD S et within a generous mature landscaped plot with views across the open Cheshire countryside Cedarwood offers a contemporary rural residence completed to the highest possible specification. The brief was to create a timeless yet elegant design, which connected with the surrounding landscape. Nestled deep within the established plot the simple series of refined linear buildings blend seamlessly and capture the innate natural beauty of their setting.

Strategically positioned the buildings provide an array of landscaped courtyards each with its own distinct character.

Constructed from the highest quality natural materials the buildings are designed to provide a healthy and sustainable living environment, highly insulated and filled with light. The large panels of recessed glazing which adorn the elevations provide panoramic views across the site whilst creating a series of bright internal living spaces. The glazing itself is highly thermally efficient allowing energy from the sun to enter the building whilst limiting

9 0 M AY 2 0 1 8

heat loss during winter.

The natural slate roof lines, which float effortlessly over the buildings, provide shelter and protection from the elements. The purity of the roof forms are further enhanced by the use of recessed guttering and concealed down-pipes.

Constructed from a rigid steel frame the buildings are clad externally in western red cedar, which has a superior natural durability and resistance to moisture, decay and insect damage. Selected for its warm textured grain and rich colour cedar has an inherent quality that has been proven to retain its appearance for several decades. The use of cedar provides a strong visual connection and roots the buildings within its landscape.

The buildings themselves are highly thermally insulated using sustainable wood-fibre board that not only reduces heat loss but also gives protection from overheating in the summer months. the building construction is highly breathable and vapour permeable protecting the building fabric and providing a naturally healthy living environment.

Heating is provided via underfloor heating linked to a highly efficient gas-condensing boiler.

Award: Northern Design Award – New Build House Winner www.nicolastyearchitects.com

RENOVATION & INTERIORS

Going up in the world The most obvious benefit of having a loft conversion is adding space to your home. In fact there are many reasons why people choose to have their loft converted.

IDEAS FOR YOUR CONVERTED LOFT Loft conversions are created for many different purposes…

L

oft conversions have been shown to add around 20% on top of your property’s value, according to the Housing Market Research. This can add up to somewhere in the range of £15,000 - £35,000.

The value of your property will increase no matter what you use the converted space for. This can be useful as the loft is often out of the way of the rest of the house. In order to get the most benefit from your loft conversion, carefully work out the costs to make sure that these do not add up to more than the conversion will be adding to the value of your property.

STAGES OF YOUR LOFT CONVERSION An architect or surveyor will be required in order to determine the loads that will be placed in the building to make sure that your property is still structurally sound. This is extremely important in all building and planning regulations, so will be required on top of your builder.

Not all loft conversions will need planning permission, but you will always need to check this for sure before going ahead. Even if you do not need it, you still need to comply with building regulations which include inspections. It is much 9 2 M AY 2 0 1 8

Home Office... Perfect for creating an office at home – it can provide a quiet and uninterrupted space when working.

Bedroom... Perhaps the most common use of a loft conversion, and creating a unique master bedroom away from the rest of the house. Loft bedrooms are one of the easiest conversions, and will require electricity though not much else.

Bathroom... When creating a master bedroom you may choose to add in an luxury en-suite bathroom. This is also popular, though requires more work due to the plumbing involved and installation.

Play Room... If you have children, this is an excellent use of the space. Just make sure the access to the loft is safe for your children to use. This shouldn’t be too difficult, as there are many great stairway options now available for converted lofts.

“Perfect for creating an office at home – it can provide a quiet and uninterrupted space when working”

easier to check regulations before starting work – which will also save you money by avoiding problems down the line.

You will need to be able to reach your loft easily once it has been converted, and your loft conversion company will help you determine your options when it comes to stairs. They should comply with fire regulations, and may need to be altered if used by small children.

Most loft conversions take a few months to complete, and the planning stages can be even longer if you need planning permission. Inspections may need to be carried out, and you may need to get an agreement if the work disrupts your neighbours.

The building work itself should take around 1 or 2 months to complete, but get an agreement on certain building stages from your loft conversion company.

Tim Cook Kitchens e l e g a n t | t i m e l e s s | o r i g i n a l | lu x u r y

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

Built from the finest luxury materials, designed to last.

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

HOUSE & GARDEN RENOVATION RENOVATION & INTERIORS INTERIORS KITCHENS & B&ATHROOMS

5

tips for improving your bathroom

Redoing your bathroom can be a great opportunity to improve the layout, but there are lots of things to consider...

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1. If you’re happy with the layout of your bathroom, replacing the suite should be straightforward and relatively inexpensive, but if you want to change the layout, expect it to be more complicated and costly. Unless you’re a very experienced and competent DIYer, get a good plumber to do the work. They should be able to offer advice about changing the layout and what is and isn’t possible or advisable, as should a good bathroom/interior designer. A professional may think of things you haven’t, such as what you can and can’t do with the wastes, which could affect the layout and the products you choose.

2. If you’re not using a designer and rejigging the layout is proving tricky, try drawing the bathroom on graph paper. Draw the room’s features, such as the window, door, airing cupboard, etc, on one piece of graph paper and the fittings you want on another, using the same scale. Then draw different layouts on different pieces of graph paper and lay them over the first plan to see how they work, or make life simple and do all this on a computer or tablet!

3. Once you have a layout you’re happy with, it’s a good idea to make life-size templates of the fittings in cardboard to try in the room. Having an above-bath shower will restrict where you put the bath, for example, and you may come across other problems when placing your templates. Better still, try the actual loo, basin, bath, etc, when the room’s empty to see how they work together and in the space you have. If returning them isn’t a problem, you could try different loos, basins and baths if you’re unsure about which will work best.

4. Don’t forget to work out how much space is needed to comfortably use the loo and basin and to dry off after having a shower or bath. Pack in too much and you’ll find that your bathroom isn’t particularly easy, practical or pleasurable to use. It’s important to choose a suite that’s in proportion to

the size of the room. Straight baths, for example, come in different widths and lengths, but if you’ve got a really small or awkward space, a tapered bath may be ideal. If there’s more space, a shower bath, which is roomier at the shower end, can be a good choice.

5. Freestanding baths and separate shower cubicles need room to breathe, so squeezing them into a small space isn’t advisable. If your heart’s set on a freestanding bath, but you don’t have room, a freestanding-style shower bath is a good compromise. This looks like a freestanding bath, but the tap end and one side is flat so it sits flush against two walls, meaning you can have a shower above without water leaking down the sides onto the floor.

Touch the quality. See the style. Feel the difference.

There’s feature walls and then there’s HYPERION FEATURE WALLS!

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HAZLEMERE We have an extensive range of interior & exterior lights, shades, ceiling fans and not forgetting fluorescent tubes, specialist & every other type of bulb.

100W 60W 40W 25W Traditional Bulbs Still Available

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H OUSE & GARDEN

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