Life Magazines (Hertfordshire editions) April 2020

THE HISTORY OF

JIMMY CHOO

FROM THE

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Radlett Premier Bathrooms

EDITOR

ou can trace its roots back to a bespoke shoemaker, Jimmy Choo, based in the East End of London in the early 1990s. The fashion designer was born Jimmy Choo Yeang Keat in Penang, Malaysia in 1961, and using the craftsmanship he learned from his father, also a cobbler, Choo made his first pair of shoes at the age of just 11.

His father wanted him to follow in his footsteps. Mr Choo recalls “When I first started, my father wouldn’t let me make a shoe. Instead, he said: “Sit and watch, sit and watch.” For months and months, I did that.”

Your special day includes the traditional butler service, with our Head Butler and his team catering to your every need. There are 30 luxurious double bedrooms within Brocket Hall and a further 16 bedrooms in the Melbourne Lodge, sleeping a maximum of 88 guests on the estate.

Abbot’s Hill School is a happy and thriving community in which pupils are encouraged to aim high, to grasp opportunities, enjoy learning and make lasting friendships. The school offers an all-round education for girls aged 4-16 years, and the Day Nursery & Pre-School caters for girls and boys from 6 months. Abbot’s Hill’s historic campus offers modern facilities in a magnificent country setting, situated in over 70 acres of beautiful parkland.

Faye Manning Editor

THE TEAM PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD

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Editor Faye Manning ••••• Editor Assistant Katie Miller ••••• Sub Editor Nicholas Peter ••••• business DEVELOPMENT manager Kelly Pauling ••••• Design & Production Lisa Wade ••••• SALES Lewis Casserley ••••• Accounts Kathy Manning, Andree Georgiou ••••• Directors Rory Smith, Patrick Smith

64 Watling Street, Radlett, WD7 7NP Tel: 01923 850444 | Fax: 01923 850456 Email: sales@radlettpremierbathrooms.co.uk www.radlettpremierbathrooms.co.uk

out & about – We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month – I M AG E : A IRBUS T E A M S U P W IT H A STON M A RTIN

OUT & ABOUT

Easter at Paradise Wildlife Park is able to fund this new exhibit through ticket sales and experience sales. All funds gained at Paradise Wildlife Park will go back into the maintenance and development of the park.

Paradise Wildlife Park CEO Lynn Whitnall said: “We are very excited to be developing our tiger habitat in 2020. This will be the second brand new habitat in as many years following the success of our Lion Pride Lands. Land of the Tigers will bring visitors closer to our beautiful tigers than ever before through the incredible underwater viewing part of the habitat. Amur tigers are endangered so we hope for the patter of tiny paws in the years to come to further contribute to the European Breeding Programmes and continue to show our charities contribution to conservation both in the UK and around the world.”

‘Land of the Tigers’ will open Easter 2020.

A new tiger habitat comes to town Gather family and friends for the launch of the brand new tiger habitat at Paradise Wildlife Park this Easter 2020.

The ‘Land of the Tigers’ has been built from the previous cheetah and lion habitats to create this totally bespoke exhibit for 2020. It will see the two female tigers Siberia and Aleena already with us at the park move into the new ‘Land of the Tigers’.

So, what makes this habitat so unique? It will be the first ever Amur tiger habitat in the UK that will feature a pool deep enough for the tigers to be fully submerged underwater. Not only this, but the park has built an amazing viewing area so visitors can watch these stunning creatures swim and play through water just inches away. The pool will also be home to a species of beautiful fish a few after the launch, which also makes this the first mixed species habitat that house a big cat in the UK. This is definitely a history making moment for the park and the UK so be sure not to miss out.

Land of the Tigers is the latest project in the ambitious rebuild plan Paradise has planned for the entire site. The Zoological Society of Hertfordshire

14 APRIL 2020

More Easter Fun Hop over to Paradise Wildlife Park this Easter with lots of Egg-citing things to do and see! Eggsplore the animals and check out a different animal open their Easter egg every day this school holiday and watch the Egg-citement on their adorable faces when they tuck into their special treats.

We will be running competitions and arts & crafts for the kids to enjoy but let the little monkeys run wild in our great outdoor attractions – complete with pirate ship, fire engine and countless slides and obstacle courses! Not to mention our World of Dinosaurs, complete with 30 animatronic life size dinosaurs.

If that wasn’t enough you can see over 800 of our beautiful animals including the largest anaconda on display in the UK, snow leopards, white lions, tigers, penguins, meerkats, jaguars and so much more.

Paradise operates a Station Car service to and from Broxbourne station which is £3 return and is only 3 miles from Paradise.

Paradise Wildlife park, White Stubbs Lane, Broxbourne EN10 7QA www.pwpark.com

“Hop over to Paradise Wildlife Park this Easter with lots of Egg-citing things to do and see!”

COVER STORY

THE HISTORY OF

JIMMY CHOO

We take a look back at the history of Jimmy Choo, rising from humble origins in a cobbler workshop to becoming one of Britain’s best-known fashion brands.

2017 Bridal Collection’ Below: Mens Autumn Winter 2017 Collection; Right: Jimmy Choo

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ou can trace its roots back to a bespoke shoemaker, Jimmy Choo, based in the East End of London in the early 1990s.

The fashion designer was born Jimmy Choo Yeang Keat in Penang, Malaysia in 1961, and using the craftsmanship he learned from his father, also a cobbler, Choo made his first pair of shoes at the age of just 11. His father wanted him to follow in his footsteps. Mr Choo recalls “When I first started, my father wouldn’t let me make a shoe.

Instead, he said: “Sit and watch, sit and watch.” For months and months, I did that.”

After learning from his father about the craft of shoemaking, Choo made his way to England in the early 1980s to study at the Cordwainers Technical College in Hackney, where he graduated with honours in 1983. Choosing to remain in England, Choo opened his first shop in Hackney in 1986 in an old hospital building.

It didn’t take long for Choo’s reputation to build. The sexy cut, fashionable design, and exceptional Italian craftsmanship struck a chord with a sophisticated clientele, and the first collection enjoyed 16 APRIL 2020

immediate success. Jimmy Choo was among the first to bring shoes and handbags to Hollywood where the red carpet proved to be the ideal runway for the brand.

Soon, Choo became the darling of the celebrity world, in particular Princess Diana, who donned Choo’s footwear seemingly everywhere she went.

High-profile devotees also include the Duchess of Cambridge, Jennifer Lopez, Beyonce and Kendal Jenner. The fictional Carrie Bradshaw in television series “Sex and the City.” famously sported Jimmy Choo shoes, boosting the brand’s status.

Within two years of opening his shop, Choo’s shoes were featured in an eight-page spread in Vogue magazine. And it was his relationship with Vogue that would prove to be instrumental in the rise of the Jimmy Choo brand. Despite the rise of his popularity, Choo was still a small operation, making just 20 hand-made pairs shoes a week.

But Tamara Mellon, an accessories editor at Vogue, who often hired Choo to make shoes for fashion shoots, sensed a larger market for Choo’s creations. She approached the shoemaker about partnering to create a line of ready-to-wear footwear -

“It’s a beautiful, distinctive art, and shoes are like the foundations. If the foundations aren’t right, the building won’t stand upright, and if a woman’s balance isn’t right, nothing else is.”

- Jimmy Choo

This image and Top Right: The Cinderella Collection

with a goal of creating a global luxury business.

In 1996, both Choo and Mellon quickly grew the business, keeping the focus on creating high-end footwear, but no longer relying on the idea that every single pair had to be made by Choo himself.

They contracted with Italian factories and opened their first boutique shop in Motcomb Street, London. Two years later, the company expanded to the US, securing locations in the premiere luxury shopping destinations of the world’s most prestigious cities including Madison Avenue in New York City and Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, also creating a line-up of adoring Hollywood celebrities including Julia Roberts and Renee Zellweger.

International expansion continued with Jimmy Choo stores opening in Avenue Montaigne in Paris, Via Condotti in Rome, Ginza in Tokyo, and prestigious shopping districts Sloane Street and Bond Street here in London. And by the turn of the century, the Choo name was a global brand, with high-end retail clients that included Harrods and Saks Fifth Avenue carrying Choo footwear. The Choo brand had also expanded to handbags and other accessories.

But in the background, all was not well. Choo and Mellon were at odds about the direction of the company. In what would become one of the more fascinating rifts in the fashion industry, Choo didn’t think bigger was better. He questioned the quality of the shoes the company was making, and seemed to long for the days when he was back at his shop in Hackney making a small number of pieces of footwear for specific clients.

In 2001, Choo sold his half of the company to Robert Bensoussan of Equinox Luxury Holdings for $30 million. Jimmy Choo was then put up for sale in April after struggling to retain the status it held in the early 2000’s. Both Choo and Mellon departed in 2011 when JAB Luxury bought the firm for more than £500m.

Today, Jimmy Choo encompasses a complete luxury accessories brand. Women’s shoes remain the core of the product offer, alongside handbags, small leather goods, scarves, sunglasses, eyewear, belts, fragrance and men’s shoes. Jimmy Choo has a global store network encompassing more than 150 stores and is present in the most prestigious department stores worldwide.

This is what makes Jimmy Choo an interesting pairing with Michael Kors, as the former is known for its sky-high stilettos and glam, crystal-embellished designs, while the latter gravitates towards down-toearth leather goods and ready-to-wear.

Jimmy himself now concentrates on a very personal business, where he designs directly for clients in high-end couture. Jimmy Choo was awarded an OBE in 2002, and girls and women around the world continue to covet owning a pair of Jimmy Choo shoes! www.jimmychoo.com

2017 Ad Campaign

APRIL 2020 17

OUT & ABOUT

National Trust to open Parklands and Gardens for free Notice the calming effects of spring blossom

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he National Trust is closing its houses, shops and cafes but aims, wherever possible to keep its parks, gardens and open spaces in the countryside and coastal regions open free of charge during coronavirus social distancing period.

Following the increasing numbers of safety measures advised by the government to limit the spread of the new coronavirus, COVID-19, The National Trust has announced that it plans to keep as many of its parks and gardens open and free of charge.

“The National Trust was founded 125 years ago for the benefit of the entire nation,” says the National Trust’s director-general Hilary McGrady.

“We want to honour our mission – to enable people and nature to thrive. Over the coming weeks we will do all that we can to keep on providing public benefit through caring for places and giving people access wherever possible.”

“While we will close our indoor areas to help fight the spread of coronavirus, we recognise that people are likely to need access to open space.”

This follows the UK government’s advice to stop non-essential contact with other people and avoid all unnecessary travel, known as social distancing.

Whilst social distancing, people should work from home when possible, spend less time in public places, and avoid social venues.

Self-isolating is a different measure, where people need to cut themselves off from the rest of the world, even avoiding leaving the house to buy food or essentials.

18 APRIL 2020

Spending time in nature can also improve your wellbeing. Research has shown that just 20 minutes could help to improve your mood. When the apple blossom is in bloom, you know that spring has truly arrived.

Apple Trees - Apple blossom appears from March-April and is white with a hint of pink. It grows in hedgerows and scrubland in moist, heavy soil. It’s a short tree with greyish-brown flecked bark and a gnarled (‘crabbed’) shape. Crab apple trees often indicate past human habitation – the apples can be used in cooking and the wood is good for carving and firewood.

Cherry Trees - Wild cherry produces small baubles of white flowers covering the tree in AprilMay with a confident flourish. It loves sunlight and fertile soil, typically growing singly in hedgerows or at woodland edges. The bark is a stunning reddishbrown marked with horizontal ‘scars’.

Blackthorn Shrubs - Blackthorn is one of the first shrubs to burst into flower in March. The white blossom appears before the leaves. The tree is short with smooth, dark brown bark and found in hedgerows and scrub in full sun. The tree can often last up to 100 years and traditionally was used for making walking sticks or shillelaghs in Ireland.

“Apple blossom appears from MarchApril and is white with a hint of pink. It grows in hedgerows and scrubland in moist, heavy soil”

OUT & ABOUT

DogFest: The ultimate day out for dogs!

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2-3 May, Knebworth House

ogFest, the ultimate day out for dogs and humans alike returns in 2020 with three fun-filled weekends in some of the UK’s most prestigious stately homes and grounds; Hertfordshire’s Knebworth House, 2 – 3 May 2020, Cheshire’s Tatton Park, 13 - 14 June 2020 and Bristol’s Ashton Court from 20 – 21 June 2020.

DogFest offers an amazing full day out, packed with dog friendly attractions, entertainment and activities with plenty of opportunities for your dog to get involved.

Every day DogFest sees The Fun Dog Show; a participatory event where your dog can compete across a number of fun categories, leading to the chance to be crowned Best in Show. Get your pup involved in hay bale racing, test their ability and agility on a variety of courses, and make a splash over at the dog diving pool.

There’s also the chance to visit the Dogs with Jobs area to meet some of the most remarkable working canines in the country and head over to the Hound Hangout to say hello to some of the most famous dogs of Instagram. For those with younger dogs, the Puppy Zone is the perfect place to teach them some basic skills and introduce them to new sights, sounds and sensations which they’ll experience in everyday life.

Wellbeing and education is at the heart of DogFest 2020, with much of the show content focusing on health and the emotional wellbeing of dogs and their humans. With everything from first aid training, nutrition advice through to the mental health benefits of getting outdoors with your dog.

Supporting the wellbeing focus the obedience

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“Every day DogFest sees The Fun Dog Show; a participatory event where your dog can compete across a number of fun categories”

About DogFest

ring offers visitors and their dogs a fun and effective activity programme with a positive underlying message – training bonds the human and their canine pals, creating a healthy and happy relationship. This is an aspect of the show which welcomes all breeds and ages, puppies experiencing their first training session, and older dogs who may need a refresher on their existing skills.

The fun doesn’t stop there, as each DogFest event will also offer a shopping experience like no other, with a Retail Village featuring hundreds of well-known brands, bespoke producers and delicious food & drink for you and your dog.

For more information about DogFest 2020 and to book tickets visit www.dog-fest.co.uk and follow DogFest on Facebook @ DogFest, Twitter @ DogFestUK and Instagram @ Dog_Fest

Born out of the desire to bring together people who love their dog, the first DogFest took place in 2013. Ever since, the event has grown each year and now takes place at three beautiful locations across England. It’s a weekend which brings together thousands of dog owners to enjoy being outdoors and sharing fun and music with like-minded people.

Tickets Adult: £17.50 Concession: £12.50 Children: £10.50 Family Ticket: £46 DogFest Premium Ticket: £35 Weekend Adult: £30 Weekend Child: £16 Weekend Concession: £21 Plus booking fees

OUT & ABOUT

Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa welcomes back the GolfCatcher PGA EuroPro Tour

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uton Hoo has been selected to host the first event on the 2020 GolfCatcher PGA EuroPro Tour schedule, between Wednesday 13th – Friday 15th May. Offering direct access to the Challenge Tour through the final Order of Merit, this is the world’s leading developmental golf tour.

Broadcast on Sky Sports, the GolfCatcher PGA EuroPro Tour creates one of golfs’ most enjoyable TV shows. Hosted by presenter and ex USA PGA Tour Professional John E Morgan and renowned golf Journalist Kit Alexander, the 2-hour highlights programme shows off the best of Europe’s leading development tour. Tour alumni includes Tommy Fleetwood, Eddie Pepperell, Tyrell Hatton and Louis Oosthuizen.

Matthew Long, General Manager at Luton Hoo said “We were delighted to host the PGA EuroPro Tour back in 2017 and are excited that they will be returning in May. Golf has been an important part of Luton Hoo since the turn of the century with the estate’s original Victorian 9 hole course, it will be great to host some of the future stars in the world of golf.”

22 APRIL 2020

“Golf has been an important part of Luton Hoo since the turn of the century with the estate’s original Victorian 9 hole course”

Luton Hoo will also be offering amateur golfers the opportunity to play the GolfCatcher PGA EuroPro Tour course on Saturday 16th May, the day after the tour final. Those entering Luton Hoo’s ‘PGA EuroPro Tour Individual Open’ will get the chance to play off the professional tees and feel like a pro. The sponsor boards will remain up and the course will be set-up exactly the same as the tour.

Entry is £40pp and includes refreshments and prizes. To find out more and enter visit www.lutonhoo.co.uk/ pga-europro-tour-individual-open

FEATURE

7 Benefits of Hosting a Corporate Golf Day W

hether you’ve considered a golf day for your business in the past or not, I’m sure there will be someone in your office who has

attended one.

You might be running an annual golf day for the wrong reasons, like: “Our competitors have one” “We’ve always had one” “Our marketing budget needs to be spent on something” If you’re currently organising and running a golf day for your company, then you may not need persuading but these 7 points will help make your next event better and make your investment worthwhile.

1. Quality Client Time Considering your prospects busy schedule, you might be lucky enough to have their attention for a few minutes. Hosting a golf day gives you the ability to have an extended period of time with these prospects. Without suits, agendas or offices to formalise your actions, you’ll be able to connect with each guest on a more personal level.

Inviting both existing and prospective clients from your business allows them to mix naturally and explain the relationship and service you provide. If you’re confident in your product/service, then these existing clients should act as sales staff for you on the day. This will act as social proofing, which is key to conversion in modern consumer and B2B transactions.

26 APRIL 2020

Additionally, and almost as importantly, a golf day provides a smart organiser with the chance to pair two attendees for the benefit of each other’s cause. For example, your external accountant playing with one of your small, yet growing accounts (who may be experiencing accounting issues) might provide the perfect ingredients for a developing relationship.

2. Professionalism The way in which you organise and execute a golf event will reflect on your business and how it runs.

A well-run golf day will reinforce the services and quality levels of your company.

Preparation is key here, so work closely with your Event Organiser and club to make sure nothing is left to chance. The club is also key to how you would like to portray your business; associate yourself with a club which you believe to be on your level.

3. Standing Out With a golf day, you have the opportunity to distinguish your company from your competition.

Make sure that your golf day is the one that your clients and prospective clients want to attend.

“At the end of the day people won’t remember what you said or did, they will remember how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou Bring something different to your event each year, whether it’s a halfway hut food truck, a trick shot show or a coaching clinic. Create moments for your clients, they will then associate these feelings with your business.

“The way in which you organise and execute a golf event will reflect on your business and how it runs”

APRIL 2020 27

feature

in the early days, with limited content to use in attracting the initial prospective clients and sponsors.

The investment of a production team at your first event can last you a few years whilst you build up footage and recognition. It’s also a good way of following up with clients after the event, to show them the footage or photos and continue the conversation you may have started at your event.

7. Thanking and Recognising

4. Increasing Brand Awareness Hiring a photographer is a great way to create content for the day and memories for your guests. Be sure to have the photographer(s) available for the whole day, from guest arrival, teeing off, on the course, reception drinks, and dinner. Create an album on your Facebook page or upload to a photo hosting website like 500px and have them available to download for free.

Some photographers may offer to print what they captured on the day for when your guests return to the clubhouse.

There are normally two options when you hire photographers at these events: either you pay the photographer a fee or they try to sell what they’ve taken on the day for a commission. Always opt for the former, always. Always.

5. Social Media Exposure In today’s media jungle, where engagement and shares rule over all, social media plays a big part in the perception of individuals, groups and businesses. You can give specific events a hashtag to use, accompanied by a screen with a live stream of hashtag usage. Guy Kawasaki gives a great list of how to socialise an event here.

If you’ve thought enough in advance, and you have the budget, you could even broadcast the event live through your social media channels. This is now available on Facebook Live, Instagram Live, Periscope, and many other platforms. What better way to entertain the stakeholders of your business than watching your Operations Manager 4-putt on the 18th green?

Snappy.TV is a great tool to distribute (almost) live embedded video highlights through Twitter, Facebook and YouTube. If it’s good enough for the PGA Tour, NBA, NFL, NHL, NASCAR, and many more organisations, it’s good enough for your business. Gone are the days waiting for Ceefax to update the scores, now this content is available to those who pursue it.

6. Creating Future Content Marketing a recurring annual event can be difficult 28 APRIL 2020

Corporate outings are important opportunities to thank existing clients for their loyalty and business.

Superficially, your company doesn’t benefit, however, a degree of loyalty is promoted with your clients and they realise you are thinking about their cause and not just selling to them.

Relationships are one of the major keys to successful business growth, and a well organised corporate golf day can be an ideal way to build these relationships. golfevents@brocket-hall.co.uk. 01707 368 731 www.brocket-hall.co.uk

FEATURE

8 Reasons to Choose an Exclusive Use Venue for your Wedding

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hether you’re newly engaged or have been thinking about booking a wedding venue for some time now, you’ve no doubt done some venue research. As you’ll realise, there are several unique styles of wedding venues out there, all offering couples a different experience when it comes to their actual wedding day. The difference between non-exclusive and exclusive use venues may seem trivial during the wedding planning stages but, on your big day, it could add that little bit of extra something which every couple deserves. Exclusive use guarantees you your privacy for the duration of your wedding day. You’ll generally receive sole exclusivity of a wedding venue, the grounds, the staff and anything else you require. It means you can be sure that you’re not going to bump into anyone on the day that isn’t a guest, or a member of staff, at your wedding.

Some exclusive wedding venues will differ in terms of what they will provide within their exclusivity package. Hiring a blank canvas wedding

venue could mean that you need to bring in every wedding supplier yourself; from the tables, chairs, linen, catering team and more. Booking to have sole use of a wedding venue means that you and your guests will have the use of the whole property for the duration of the wedding. Feel like royalty for the day with a complete exclusivity where the only guests are the ones you have specially invited. Find a venue that has accommodation on-site too, and your wedding venue will be transformed into a special retreat for the duration of your celebrations.

If you’re unsure about how hiring an exclusive use wedding venue can enhance your wedding day, here are eight reasons which might just convince you to go for that exclusive use venue.

Privacy A wedding is a personal occasion for your family and friends, so it’s natural to want complete privacy to enjoy the day with only ‘your people’. There won’t be any strangers roaming around the venue staring while you’re all in your finery and you won’t find any strangers in the background when you’re flicking through your wedding photo album.

You will be able to choose exactly who you’ll be spending your day in the company of, giving your wedding the ultimate sense of intimacy.

Security Exclusive use venues tend to be a lot more secure and, with just your party on-site, it’s a lot safer and 30 APRIL 2020

“You will be able to choose exactly who you’ll be spending your day in the company of, giving your wedding the ultimate sense of intimacy”

FEATURE

you won’t have the fear of strangers gate-crashing your wedding reception.

Staff Exclusive wedding venues tend to lend themselves to better service because all of the staff at the venue are there to serve your party alone. That means you won’t have to queue up with strangers at the bar and you and your party will receive the undivided attention of the venue’s staff. It’s likely that the experienced staff will have seen every possible wedding-related mishap there is to see and they’ll know exactly how to rectify it; so you can feel safe in the knowledge that the happiest day of your life is being handled by the experts.

Travel From getting ready in the morning, to saying “I do” and have the last dance of the night, choosing exclusive venue hire means you don’t have to travel anywhere during your big day. Not needing to worry about travel makes everyone more relaxed. It also means there’s no need for taxis or designated drivers. You can keep the party going as long as you like, stay over and have breakfast together in the morning.

Attention When opting for an exclusive use venue, you can rest assured that you and your partner will be the centre of attention all day, without having to compete with other couples.

No Hidden Extras Exclusive use venues and all of their bonuses usually come as a package, so there are no hidden costs involved.

Location Some of the most beautiful venues in the country can be exclusively yours, but it’s not just the stunning barn or grand country house you’ll have, but the grounds and gardens too. Can you imagine celebrating in acres of rolling parkland, as Lord and Lady of the Estate? Amazing outdoor space could take your wedding to the next level.

More Quality Time Being in the same venue for the duration of your wedding gives you more time with your guests and loved ones. It means the celebrations can last a lot longer too, as everyone can stay until it’s time to leave the following day. Since you’ll be at the venue for the duration of your celebrations, you can also build in extra time to capture more happy moments on camera too.

As you can see, there’s much more to selecting a venue than simply price and location. The benefits of having exclusive use of a wedding venue are genuinely compelling, so make sure you explore it as an option. Choosing an exclusive use wedding venue could add the perfect touch to your big day, 32 APRIL 2020

“Few properties in England can claim to have been the home to two prime ministers, played host to George IV, Queen Victoria and the infamous Lady Caroline Lamb who introduced the Waltz to England in the Ballroom”

with a homely feel and endless privacy and security for an intimate atmosphere. It could just give you a wedding day that exceeds expectations and is unforgettable.

Set in 543 acres of idyllic Hertfordshire countryside, Brocket Hall has played host to a variety of special and important events. The elegant and romantic setting is the perfect location for your special day. The Brocket Hall Estate, designed by Richard Woods, with the meandering Broadwater Lake and charming Paine Bridge offers the perfect backdrop for your wedding photographs.

Few properties in England can claim to have been the home to two prime ministers, played host to George IV, Queen Victoria and the infamous Lady Caroline Lamb who introduced the Waltz to England in the Ballroom – which can seat from 50 – 150 guests for your wedding breakfast. The Ballroom is sumptuously decorated with fine paintings, including the stunning ceiling painted by Sir Francis Wheatley.

Your special day includes the traditional butler service, with our Head Butler and his team catering to your every need. There are 30 luxurious double bedrooms within Brocket Hall and a further 16 bedrooms in the Melbourne Lodge, sleeping a maximum of 88 guests on the estate.

On the Estate, we also have alternative venues to the Hall including our exclusive-use fine dining restaurant, Auberge du Lac (pictured above), and The Oak Room which is room-hire only.

For more information or to enquire about available dates please contact; weddings@brocket-hall.co.uk. 01707 368897

OUT & ABOUT

The Ivy St Albans launches Easter Dessert

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ith Easter just a hop, skip and a jump away, The Ivy Marlow Garden, is delighted to be adding a limitededition dessert to its already extensive menu just in time for this ‘egg-cellent’ seasonal holiday.

Created by The Ivy Marlow’s talented food team, the ‘Into the Rabbit Hole’ dessert (£8.95), will feature a delicious combination of pistachio crumbs, white chocolate mousse, popping candy, crispy pearls, carrot and walnut cake – the perfect treat to make you ‘hoppy’ this Easter.

Richard Martinez, General Manager at The Ivy Marlow Garden says: “We are delighted to be adding this adorable new addition to our menu this Easter, and look forward to welcoming guest into the restaurant.”

The ‘Into the Rabbit Hole’ dessert will be available exclusively from Friday, 10 April to Monday, 13 April. www.heivystalbans.com

34 APRIL 2020

Now fuLLy opEraTioNaL aT NEw addrEss

We have relocated to 32 coldharbour lane, harpenden al5 5eQ

TEL: 01582 712807

FEATURE

Airbus teams up with Aston Martin

The ACH130 Aston Martin Edition, the first offering from the recently-announced partnership between Aston Martin Lagonda and Airbus Corporate Helicopters, was revealed at Courchevel in the French Alps.

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his stylish special edition of the ACH130 helicopter comes equipped with a range of four interior and exterior designs generated by Aston Martin, which will delight helicopter owners and pilots who appreciate the pleasures of possessing and driving high performance bespoke luxury cars.

The aeronautical designers at Airbus Corporate Helicopters (ACH) and the automotive designers at Aston Martin have worked closely together for over a year, marrying ACH’s key values of excellence, quality and service with Aston Martin’s commitment to beauty, handcrafting and automotive art to bring a new level of aesthetics and rigorous attention to detail to the helicopter market.

Available in four external liveries with complementary interiors, the helicopters are embellished with Aston Martin signature elements, starting with the iconic Aston Martin wings, which are embossed onto luxury leather features, tastefully positioned throughout the cabin. he Stirling Green-themed external scheme,

36 APRIL 2020

which is already flying on the first aircraft, features a painted gradient, which fades down into Jet Black on the underside of the helicopter with Skyfall Silver around the cowlings. Further external liveries are available with other Aston Martin paint colours including Xenon Grey, Arizona or Ultramarine Black exteriors.

Inside, the automotive-inspired cabin, which offers a higher level of comfort, is trimmed in Pure Black ultra-suede with a palette of selectable leathers comprising Oxford Tan, Pure Black, Cormorant and Ivory.

On the rear of the front seats the same brogue detailing that is found in a DB11 runs down the centre of the seat and the doors have been trimmed with leather to provide passengers with comfortable touch points during their flight. By using materials from the Aston Martin automotive palette the interior of this special edition of the ACH130 sits in harmony with the interior of Aston Martin sports cars.

Each of these special edition helicopters will have a plaque included on the instrument panel which shows the partnership logos, the edition number and the owner’s name, should they wish to have it included.

Aston Martin Vice President and Chief Creative Officer, Marek Reichman, said: “We have our own set of automotive design principles but in recent years we have been learning how to apply our principles to other areas of design, such as architecture, motorcycles and now helicopters.

This first application of our design practices to a helicopter posed a number of interesting challenges but we have enjoyed working through them. Beauty is of vital importance to Aston Martin and to our customers and we think the ACH130 Aston Martin Edition is an inherently beautiful machine. It provided a wonderful canvas for our team to work on so we now look forward to seeing everybody’s reaction.”

The ACH130 Aston Martin Edition is available on request, for further information please visit: www.airbuscorporatehelicopters.com

“Inside, the automotive-inspired cabin, which offers a higher level of comfort, is trimmed in Pure Black ultrasuede with a palette of selectable leathers comprising Oxford Tan, Pure Black, Cormorant and Ivory”

EDUC ATION

happy & thriving communitY

A

bbot’s Hill School is a happy and thriving community in which pupils are encouraged to aim high, to grasp opportunities, enjoy learning and make lasting friendships.

The school offers an all-round education for girls aged 4-16 years, and the Day Nursery & Pre-School caters for girls and boys from 6 months. Abbot’s Hill’s historic campus offers modern facilities in a magnificent country setting, situated in over 70 acres of beautiful parkland.

Abbot’s Hill has a strong record of academic success.

Excellent teaching, small classes and personalised support ensure that everyone is inspired to exceed their potential and to shine.

In a recent ISI inspection, Abbot’s Hill was judged as ‘excellent’ in all areas – the highest rating possible and our Nursery setting was judged to be Outstanding for the second time in succession. This is testament to the expert and dedicated staff who skilfully support, stretch and challenge learners.

The broad curriculum is enhanced by a wide range of trips and activities to stimulate learning.

Extra-curricular clubs offer a lively balance of sport, performing and creative arts, science and technology, journalism and problem-solving.

Finding out who you are has never been so much fun.

At Abbot’s Hill, there is a great focus on pastoral care. Staff work in partnership with parents to know, understand and support their daughter so that she can achieve her very best. Girls don’t just gain qualifications here; excellence is measured by so much more than this: a broader spectrum of intelligence, conscience, resilience and adaptability matter and you will see these qualities woven through the school.

Those girls lucky enough to come here will leave as confident, compassionate and creative individuals.

To experience Abbot’s Hill School for yourself, come along to an Open Event. For more information, please call 01442 240333 or visit www.abbotshill.herts.sch.uk.

38 APRIL 2020

www.educationmutual.co.uk Tel 01623 287840

EDUC ATION

L

ong Easter and Summer holidays used to be a decisive factor in attracting people to a career in teaching.

However, an increased strain on school budgets has led to the profession being earmarked as stressful with one in four teachers now working very long days and over 59 hours a week.

Schools are struggling to juggle budget cuts with their responsibility for staff wellbeing and now risk a mass exodus as disgruntled teachers begin to leave the sector.

Over the last five years, more than 30,000 teachers have quit the industry with the majority blaming budget cuts, increased workloads, and mounting pressure.

With teachers at breaking point, a group of education professionals took it upon themselves to change things for the better and Education Mutual was founded.

The innovative company, which provides an ethical and affordable solution to staff absence cover for schools, is helping schools, particularly in Hertforshire address the crisis on two levels.

The not-for-profit organisation is a mutual meaning any funds not claimed over the insurance period are plowed back into the education pot, rather than claimed as profits by the private companies which are run for profit.

The cost-effective model has helped educators save thousands of taxpayers money and as a result, the organisation is gaining customers at the expense of more traditional private insurance providers like Towergate and The Schools Advisory Service.

Some schools, who have switched providers, have already made savings in excess of £5000 in just over a year and the average school saves more than a £1,000.

In addition, Education Mutual is helping schools prevent long-term staff absence by providing teachers with early access to help to quickly deal with health problems before they escalate.

To support teacher wellbeing the model offers staff confidential access to early intervention treatment for a wide range of health issues.

The bespoke service provides schools that sign up with access to an array of readily accessible,

40 APRIL 2020

Budget Cuts Pile Pressure On Stressed Out Teachers

innovative, rehabilitation solutions, including mental health support, physiotherapy and stress counseling.

Nick Hurn, OBE

“The innovative company, which provides an ethical and affordable solution to staff absence cover for schools, is helping schools, particularly in Hertforshire address the crisis on two levels”

Nick Hurn, OBE Chairman Nick Hurn, OBE, who is CEO of Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust (formerly Trinity Catholic MAT) in Bishop Auckland, said: “There is a revolution going on in the way school finances are run. Instead of profits being sucked into the private sector they are being redistributed back into the education system.”

“Our members can see for themselves that we provide the highest level of care services for our teachers who are in need of help and support.

“Education Mutual is different from other staff absence cover providers because it’s owned by its members – schools, colleges, nurseries and other education providers. This means that all of the money that schools contribute to the mutual goes solely towards the payment of claims and covering running costs, not paying shareholders as other private firms have to do” The insurance ‘disruptor’ has secured an astonishing 3,400 % increase in market share in just 12 months. Only a year ago, they had 20 schools on their books but they now boast over 700 – and the numbers are rising weekly.

The scheme has already been backed by school leaders, who have seen instant results from switching their school insurance out of the private sector.

Mike Butler, the Chief Executive of the Education Village Academy Trust in Darlington, said: “Feedback from our staff accessing these services shows that they are extremely satisfied with the level, quality and speed of support they receive.

“Not only have we saved approximately £5k on our ‘premium’ but, as a Trust, we have calculated the total financial benefits to us of being a member of Education Mutual last academic year, when contrasted with the previous year with a different supplier, to be in the region of £40k.”

The Best Start at Lockers Park

L

ockers Park Pre-Prep welcomes boys and girls from Reception through to Year 2.

Nestled in 23 acres of woodland on the outskirts of Hemel Hempstead, with Berkhamsted, Harpenden and St Albans close by, the Pre-Prep is housed in a purpose-built building just a stone’s throw away from the Prep School.

Pre-Prep Life “A caring and nurturing environment,” highlighted the Independent Schools Inspectorate. Each classroom is bright, spacious and welcoming, filled

with experienced teachers that are ready to give each child the best possible start in their academic journey. Pre-Prep children benefit from small class sizes, ensuring each child receives a high level of attention from the very beginning.

Learning does not stop at the classroom door, but extends into the school’s leafy grounds where children are encouraged to create, explore, investigate and observe. Pre-Prep pupils are also able to enjoy the many excellent facilities the Prep School has to offer including: the Art Room, Design & Technology Centre, Computer Suite, Sports Hall, Swimming Pool, Assembly Hall, Drama & Music Studios, Chapel and Library and the shared woodland grounds.

Free Wraparound Care Busy parents find the Pre-Prep’s wraparound care options hugely helpful. Running from 7.30am6.00pm for Pre-Prep pupils and 7.30am-7.30pm for Prep School pupils. Children can arrive for a cooked breakfast and stay for supper, taking the opportunity to enjoy a variety of activities in a relaxed, homely environment. This popular provision is all included within the termly fees. There is also a Minibus Service for pupils travelling to and from Harpenden and St Albans.

Open Morning Come along to Lockers Park’s next Open Morning on Saturday 2nd May 10.00am-12.00pm, or call 01442 251712 to arrange a personal visit. www.lockerspark.herts.sch.uk

APRIL 2020 41

EDUC ATION

PERSONALISED LEARNING: EMPOWERING THE INDIVIDUAL Jo Cameron, Principal

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

A

t the heart of a truly bespoke education is a recognition that each pupil develops at their own pace, and in their own learning style. While kinaesthetic learners favour practical, hands-on experience, for instance, auditory-musical learners benefit from mnemonics, rhythms and background sounds.

Increasingly, independent schools are working to differentiate their teaching methods to suit individual learners.

Here at Queenswood, we have recently established a Personalised Learning Centre – a central hub where all learners can congregate. Our Academic Scholars, and pupils with additional learning needs, are all under the same roof, learning from each other and learning together. Scholars meet there for one-to-one and group sessions, to explore options for stretch and challenge and to discuss current affairs. Other pupils use it as a drop-in centre to seek advice on planning study and revision schedules, to play flashcard games to boost working memory, to discuss recommendations for non-fiction reading with staff and peers, or for structured tutorials to address specific learning issues.

“Here at Queenswood, we have recently established a Personalised Learning Centre” Strong links between a school’s pastoral teams and the academic staff are crucial in order to build up a holistic picture of each pupil’s needs, and to ensure that staff can work together to deliver whatever is required. At Queenswood, our Personalised Learning staff provide support in three waves. Firstly, they train teachers: a regular half-termly programme ensures that academic staff are up-to-date with the latest pedagogical research into specific learning issues, study skills and time management. Secondly, they provide in-class support, visiting lessons to help teachers to deliver the curriculum to a particular pupil or group of pupils. Thirdly, they are able to offer one-to-one or group tutorials within the Personalised Learning Centre itself.

Ultimately, every pupil deserves to be recognised as an individual. A personalised approach to learning ensures that teachers respond and react to the needs of each child, nurturing their unique potential, fostering independence, and allowing them to discover their own strengths and passions in a safe, supportive environment.

42 APRIL 2020

fashion, HEALTH

& beauty – Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – i mag e : BRIGITT E B A RDOT

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

BEFORE

AFTER

Addressing the true reason for Facial Ageing O

ver time, the tissues of the face begin to sag, which is why the face can appear aged.

If your face is experiencing more laxity than you’d like, we have an exclusively new treatment that is non-surgical and will lift your face without leaving any trace or scars No matter how well you look after yourself and your skincare regime, the tissues of the face will begin to sag as you get older, which is why the face can appear aged. We are the only clinic in the UK that can offer this exclusive Infinite-Thread® treatment. This is the first facelift using threads without any surgery or scars.

The Treatment Infinite-Thread® is a non-surgical facelift which takes place under local anaesthetic and you can return home on the same day. The Infinite-Thread® Lift’s unique design repositions the tissue on your face, back to their original positions to support the natural shape of your face. Ordinary painkillers are all the post-treatment aftercare that you’ll need….

What areas does it treat?

• Cheeks and cheekbones • Jowls • Sagging skin

The Parallel Technique This procedure can only be carried out by specifically trained doctors, using what is known as the Parallel Technique. Dr Ravi Jain has championed

46 APRIL 2020

the introduction of this new treatment to Riverbanks Wellness and he is the first doctor in the UK to master this treatment.

The Parallel Technique places 3 threads on each side of the face, independent of each other, in order to treat different areas, e.g. the malar zone which is responsible for the collapse of the cheekbones and creation of nasolabial folds. They are also placed along the jaw line to improve the appearance of jowls and marionette lines. If the neck area is being treated, 4 threads will be inserted on each side of the neck. Once these threads are placed, they are invisible. These threads superior to other absorbable threads on the market in that it is a permanent thread and the effects are lasting for more than 7 years and counting, other threads last from 6-12 months.

You’re in good hands We are thrilled to offer this new and exclusive treatment to patients at Riverbanks Wellness. If you’re worried about the condition of your skin or are nervous about surgical treatments to give your face the spring of life again, this could be the perfect treatment for you.

Award-winning suspension thread treatment Infinite-Thread has been honoured with the 2019 Best Suspension Thread award. This is an amazing award and we are extremely proud that this permanent tensor thread has been elected by a panel of experts composed of plastic surgeons, cosmetic doctors and dermatologists around the world.

Dr Rav i Jain

THE DETAILS For more information visit my informative website www.riverbanksclinic.co.uk and subscribe to my email list. Or if you would like to schedule a consultation with one of my aesthetic doctors call 01582 762877 to book in.

Do you have a friend that is looking to revitalise their skin? Do you know of anyone that is uncomfortable with their body but doesn’t know where to turn?

When you refer a friend to us, you can both receive

10% off

your next visit.

All you need to do is ensure your friend quotes your name when they are booking a treatment and we’ll do the rest.

If you’ve got any questions, please talk to reception or contact us: Reception@riverbankswellness.com 01582 762877

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

HOW THE A-LISTERS GET

RED-CARPET READY DURING AWARDS SEASON Katie Wright reveals

the beauty secrets that help celebs shine in front of the cameras.

From skincare to make-up, here are five ways to get the A-list look...

1. Skin prep Renee Zellweger’s skin was glowing when she picked up the Best Actress Oscar for her portrayal of Judy Garland, which make-up artist Dana Hamel put down to QMS Medicosmetics’ luxurious three-step collagen system. The night before the ceremony, Hamel applied the exfoliating mask for 15 minutes, followed by the Night Collagen serum.

The next morning, she added the Day Collagen serum to create the perfect base for Zellweger’s Pat McGrath foundation.

QMS Medicosmetics Collagen System Sensitive, £199 Not all celebs rely on premium products, however. Ahead of the Golden Globes, make-up artist Frankie Boyd prepped Scarlett Johansson’s skin using serum and eye cream from The Inkey List, which cost less than £9 each.

The Inkey List Caffeine Eye Cream, £8.99, Boots; The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum, £5.99, Boots

Collagen System Sensitive, £199, available from QMS Medicosmetics

E.l.f. 16hr Camo Concealer Rich Chocolate, £5, available from Boots

2. Foundation Billy Porter is fast becoming a red-carpet icon, and not just because of his incredible outfits. The actor was giving us beauty inspo at the Oscars with his flawless complexion, which came courtesy of make-up artist Anna Bernabe and E.l.f. cosmetics.

“We wanted his beautiful facial structure to

W

hen Hollywood’s finest are strutting their stuff on the red carpet and beaming for the cameras, it’s easy to think that their radiant looks are the result of good genes, rather than the army of facialists, make-up artists, nail technicians and hair stylists, who work tirelessly behind the scenes.

Make no mistake, there’s a lot of work that goes into getting actors ready for their close-up, especially during the gruelling awards season, which starts with the Golden Globes and ends with the Oscars.

That said, it doesn’t take an entire glam squad to bring a bit of Tinseltown magic to your beauty routine - we’ve got the inside scoop on the products that celebrity pros love to use on their famous clients.

48 APRIL 2020

he Inkey List Caffeine Eye Cream, £8.99, available from Boots

The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum, £5.99, available from Boots

E.l.f. Flawless Finish Foundation Nutmeg, £6.50, available from Boots

Lip Lustre in Pillow Talk, £19, available from Charlotte Tilbury

Lip Lustre in Pillow Talk, £19, available from Charlotte Tilbury

shine through, so we used radiating products that complimented and accentuated his natural complexion,” she said, starting with Flawless Finish Foundation and adding Camo Concealer under the eyes, to create a matte but glowy finish.

E.l.f. Flawless Finish Foundation in Nutmeg, £6.50 (was £7.50), Superdrug; E.l.f. 16hr Camo Concealer in Rich Chocolate, £5, Superdrug

Eyes to Kill Stellar Eyeshadow in Stellar, £31, available from Armani Beauty

“Regina King was a vision in pink at this year’s ceremony, and had make-up to match”

3. Eye make-up Actor and singer Cynthia Erivo has been killing it on the red carpet this season, and her Oscars smoky eye is the kind of glam look that’s easy to try at

Le Vernis Ballerina, £22, available from Chanel

Eye Tint Eyeshadow in Sunset, £27, available from Armani Beauty

home. Start with Armani Eye Tint liquid shadow, then top with the shimmering Eyes To Kill Stellar powder shadow, and finish with several coats of mascara, or extra-long false lashes like Erivo’s.

Armani Beauty Eye Tint Eyeshadow in Brown Vulcano, £27; Armani Beauty Eyes To Kill Stellar Eyeshadow in Stellar, £31 We also loved comedy actor Maya Rudoplh’s Oscars eye make-up. Another Armani Beauty look, the pinky-purple shade is Eye Tint liquid eyeshadow in Sunset.

Armani Beauty Eye Tint Eyeshadow in Sunset, £27

4. Lips Regina King, winner of the supporting actress gong at last year’s Academy Awards, was a vision in pink at this year’s ceremony, and had make-up to match.

Make-up artist Latrice Johnson created the look using products from Charlotte Tilbury’s new Pillow Talk collection, combining Pillow Talk Medium matte lipstick (a shade slightly darker than the original), adding Lip Lustre on top for a glossy finish.

Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick in Pillow Talk Medium, £25 Charlotte Tilbury Lip Lustre in Pillow Talk, £19

5. Nails Eye Tint Eyeshadow in Brown Vulcano, £27, available from Armani Beauty OPI Nail Polish Alpine Snow, £8.78

The French manicure has made a comeback recently, and Margot Robbie is the latest celeb to rock the classic look, created by Hollywood’s favourite nail guru Tom Bachik. For the base, Bachik used classic Chanel shade Ballerina, with Pure White on the tips. The latter was a limited edition that’s no longer available, but OPI Alpine Snow is a high-quality alternative.

Chanel Le Vernis in Ballerina, £22 OPI Nail Polish in Alpine Snow, £8.78 (was £13.50), NailPolishDirect.

APRIL 2020 49

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Taking care J of your mind and body

ust as we might go to the gym to look after our body, shouldn’t we go to therapy to look after our mind?

To exercise physically has well-known benefits. Getting out of breath and raising your heart beat every day is recommended. Many of us do some form of physical exercise and also try to eat well, so why is it that some of us only look to consider our psychological wellbeing when we are really struggling, rather than as a proactive positive measure?

Looking after your emotional health, when placed into your life as part of your routine, can be equally as valuable as looking after your physical health and, in my opinion, is essential if you want to optimise your quality of life.

Visiting a therapist can be as easy as going to the gym. Yes, going to the gym is not everyone’s cup of tea, you might enjoy attending Pilates, Zumba, or Yoga. Running, country walks, swimming or playing sports could be more your style.

Exercising and eating well are both things plenty of us have difficulty with, but most of us are not inhibited by a stigma or reluctance with accepting they are good things to do. They are both good for your health… your physical health.

When someone is closed down, hits a crisis or stress saturation point, it’s crucial they seek out professional help. Much better to seek out therapy early on rather than turn to it in desperation.

Shane Lutkin is lead Therapist at counselling and psychotherapy practice, Emotionalskills, which offers its services in Hertfordshire and Norfolk. Call 07986 488690 or email info@emotionalskills.uk. Visit www.emotionalskills.uk

50 APRIL 2020

Live Your LiFe To The FuLL GOOD HEALTH IS

20% GENETIC AND 80% LIFESTYLE

Our philosophy is that good health isn’t about taking pills…prevention is better than a cure.

Our clinically tested, 8 week ProLongevity programme helps people to lose weight, improve wellbeing and avoid or reverse diabetes. We use new technology to monitor real-time blood sugar levels. We provide personalised advice based on your body’s unique data. We then combine these to help you make changes to your diet and lifestyle.

There’s no drugs, no hunger, and no calorie-counting. We avoid traditional approaches that treat symptoms after the damage has been done.

Live your life to the full. Find out how at: www.prolongevity.co.uk To find ouT how iT works Web: www.prolongevity.co.uk • Phone: 01727 834365 Mobile & WhatsApp: 07768-275802 E-mail: graham.phillips@manorpharmacygroup.co.uk

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

A LUXURIOUS HAVEN FROM CITY LIFE THE LABORATORY SPA & HEALTH CLUB, MUSWELL HILL

H

2020 is a very exciting time for The Laboratory Spa & Health Clubs as this year will see the 25th anniversary of the opening of the Muswell Hill site. From its inception,The Laboratory was always designed to be more than just a health club, it is a private members club, offering an unrivalled combination of luxury, state-of-the-art facilities and five-star customer service. The building was designed using Feng Shui to ensure that the club has a feeling of harmony and balance.

52 APRIL 2020

aving built up a well-deserved reputation for excellence over the last 25 years, The Laboratory has been repeatedly recognised by the fitness industry for its outstanding facilities; twice they have won the auspicious title of UK Health Club Of The Year award at the National Fitness Awards & were also previously voted Best Private Health Club by Time Out Magazine. Whilst winning awards is indeed an honour, Seb Barre, General Manager explains “one of the things we are most proud of, is that 25 years later we still have many of our founder members!” Certainly, the number of Health Clubs who can boast that must be few and far between and is a reflection on the outstanding service that is offered to its members.

“There is a day spa with an extensive treatment range to choose from using the highest quality products” Whether it be a refreshing swim in the spectacular 25 metre UV treated swimming pool, or an energising work-out in the spacious fully equipped, there are all manner of options for your workout. There are also two dedicated studios with one focused more on mind & body classes such as Yoga & Pilates and the other more group fitness based, offering everything from Power Ride to HIIT. With over one hundred classes per week to choose from, you can certainly ensure that your workout routines are varied and interesting.

It is of course also very important to un-wind and the ethos of the Laboratory has always been firmly rooted in the belief that it is important to find a balance between looking after both body and soul. With that in mind, there is a day spa with an extensive treatment range to choose from using the highest quality products (ESPA & Guinot).

Whether you are looking for a deep tissue massage, a facial, craniosacral therapy or a manicure there are experienced therapists on hand who are highly trained and fantastic at what they do. The Day Spa is open every day of the week and non-members are also very welcome to book in for treatments making it a fantastic option when you are struggling to think of a gift for someone special. Gift vouchers are also available if you prefer the recipient to be able to choose when they would like to visit for their treatment.

The juice bar is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal, smoothie or a well-made coffee.

You can choose from the extensive menu or pick

something from the daily specials in the knowledge that everything is homemade and designed to be both nutritious and tasty. There is also a take-away service available so that if time is of the essence your food can be prepared for you and be ready and waiting for you when you leave.

So, what exactly happens when you join The Laboratory? The process really couldn’t be any simpler which means that once you have made your decision you really can get going immediately.

When you have had a tour of the club from one of the Management team, they will go through the various membership options with you and fill out the paperwork. You will then be given a fitness screen by one of the Lab Gym Coaches which involves some basic health questions and a quick blood pressure check to ensure that it is safe for you to start exercising. Importantly, there is no Annual Contract as the aim is that members will stay because they love it rather than being tied into a lengthy contract.

Once you are ready to start your exercise regime you will be invited to book in for a Complimentary fitness consultation & program. This will take place up in the gym with one of the highly trained Lab Coaches who will spend time with you discussing what your goals, likes and dislikes are, along with other important information such as if there are any health issues or injuries that they need to be aware of. They will be able to devise a program for you that considers every aspect of the club not just the gym. As part of your membership you can book in for a complimentary re-focus on a monthly basis so that one of the coaches can keep things interesting for you and help to ensure that you stay on the right track!

It is then entirely up to you how you spend your time at the Laboratory as Lab members have full use of all the facilities. Whether your day consists of a swim, a class, a gym work out and sauna or steam or even if you pop in for a treatment and a healthy lunch, hopefully, having used the club you will go home feeling refreshed, revitalised and on course for a healthier, stronger you!

The Laboratory Spa & Health Club, 1A Hall Lane, Mill Hill, London NW4 4TJ 0208 457 3300 www.labspa.co.uk

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

HOLLY WILLOUGHBY IS VOTED

BEST-DRESSED CELEBRITY MUM HERE’S WHY SHE’S SUCH A STYLE ICON

The TV presenter beat the likes of Victoria Beckham and the Duchess of Cambridge, says Katie Wright.

R

ecently, eBay conducted a survey on ‘school run’ fashion and asked 1,500 mothers who they thought was the UK’s best-dressed celebrity mum.

It should come as no surprise that Holly Willoughby - whose personal style is so popular she can cause items to sell out in a matter of minutes when she wears them on telly - came out on top, taking 30% of the vote.

In second place with 17% was the Duchess of Cambridge, who’ll be taking Princess Charlotte to school for the first time this month, while Victoria Beckham and Emma Willis each scored 15% of the vote.

56 APRIL 2020

Willoughby shared an Instagram post yesterday as she dropped off son Chester for his first day of school, writing that she was “full of a whole host of emotions watching him walk through the classroom door”.

The mum-of-three didn’t disappoint with her school-run style either, wearing a chic grey blazer, pink printed shirt and a cool leopard print crossbody bag.

But it’s Willoughby’s on-screen outfits that fans love the most.

In fact, the 38-year-old gets so many comments from viewers asking where the clothes are from that she always makes a point of sharing her ensembles

“The mum-of-three didn’t disappoint with her school-run style, wearing a chic grey blazer, pink printed shirt and a cool leopard print cross-body bag”

on Instagram with the tag #hwstyle and listing where items are from.

On the whole, her style is typically feminine - a pretty printed dress that’s slightly cinched at the waist is a HW staple.

Whether it’s floaty and midi length or an A-line mini, the shape really suits her figure.

Similarly, if the bubbly blonde wears a skirt, she always chooses one that emphasises her waist, often pairing a floaty midi style with a fine knit jumper.

As for shoes, Willoughby keeps it simple with single-strap sandals in summer and an array of ankle boots in winter. That’s one of the major reasons she’s such a style icon - simplicity.

Focusing on block colours and clean lines (with very few accessories) means that whether she’s sat on the This Morning sofa or being team captain on Celebrity Juice, Willoughby never overdoes it.

Likewise, when the occasion calls for something a bit more glam, Willoughby knows how to bring the glitz.

While presenting Dancing On Ice, she gave us 10 weeks of incredible floor-length gowns, showcasing everything from powder pink Peter Langner to sexy black Versace.

The stylish star always delivers on the red carpet, too, and has a penchant for fairy-tale princess frocks.

Designer dresses aside, if you want to get the #hwstyle look, it’s actually quite accessible, because Willoughby tries to wear high-street pieces as much as possible.

She recently partnered with Marks & Spencer on the Holly Loves edit, showcasing a selection of pieces each season that get the HW seal of approval.

The summer collection includes a cream A-line denim mini skirt, a monochrome midi dress and linen belted shorts - we expect the autumn edit will be unveiled soon.

As for knitwear, Willoughby wears a lot of jumpers from J Crew and Pure Collection, while her dresses and skirts are from brands like Reiss, And

“The stylish star always delivers on the red carpet, too, and has a penchant for fairy-tale princess frocks”

Other Stories and Oasis.

Footwear is the only area where the presenter has rather expensive taste, favouring the like of Stuart Weitzman for suede court heels. But she also sometimes chooses high-street brands like Office.

With Holly back on This Morning, there’s lots more #hwstyle to look forward to this autumn, so keep your eyes peeled for more fashion tips from the UK’s best-dressed mum.

APRIL 2020 57

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Nothing But Love this month at La Unique

If you don’t know already, La Unique has landed in Harpenden and brought an incredible team with them.

T

he salon is located on Luton Road and it’s hard not to miss with their stunning signature purple colour on the outside of the building. Don’t be fooled by the size of the outside of the shop – you’ll soon be shocked as you enter and realise that this salon is so much bigger inside, and has so much to offer.

It’s certainly a complete one stop beauty stop. As soon as you step foot in the door, it’s hard to not be impressed by the stunning décor, white clean walls and beauty smells. You’re greeted straight away with a friendly smile from the staff on reception and a warm welcome from all the staff, which immediately makes you feel important and relaxed. You will be offered a beverage while you discuss your treatments with your therapist, and all your needs are catered to! This isn’t about being rushed – it’s all about you, and you feel that within seconds. This salon is ready to give you the best service and luxury at all costs.

La unique is not only a beauty salon, it is also a hair salon, and boosts an array of high end beauty treatments. One to shout about and something completely unique to the area is Cryotherapy, which is a rejuvenation of the body and mind. The therapy takes place in a chamber with the use of cold air rejuvenation through the body’s natural response to intense cold. Cryotherapy’s renowned benefits include weight loss, rapid reduction of muscle soreness, anti ageing, reduction of cellulite and improved mental health, it can also strengthen the immune system and aid pain relief. It really is exciting to have this treatment available in the local area.

58 APRIL 2020

The one stop beauty shop is now offering amazing packages: Bronze, Sliver, Gold and Platinum .

Incredible Offer’s that wont be beaten. Now updated On La Unique Instagram are daily offers on their stories So follow now @launiqueuk The owner tells me his vison for the salon, and his hopes to put La Unique on the map in Harpenden, but there is so much more coming so watch this space. From teeth whitening, Dermalogica facials, Environ facials and products massages, luxury manicures and gel nails, lip fillers, to wash, cut and blow drys, Caci treatments, waxing and so much more, La Unique really does do it all.

It’s definitely five stars all the way for this incredible new salon and don’t forget check out the offers for their brand new Cryotheraphy therapy which is completely unique to the area.

THE DETAILS La Unique, 103 Luton Road, Harpenden AL5 3BB Tel: 01582 460900 or 01582 452424 Email: launiqueharpenden@gmail.com www.launique.co.uk Follow on Instagram @launiqueuk Daily Offers uploaded on story!

“It’s definitely five stars all the way for this incredible new salon”

ADVANCES AESTHETIC & BEAUTY TREATMENTS AESTETICS FACIALS SPRAY TANS MUSCLE RELAXING TREATMENTS CRYOTHERAPY SEMI PERMANET MAKE UP LIGHT THERAPY SKIN REJUVINATION LASER HAIR REMOVAL FILLERS NON SURGICAL FACE & EYE LIFTING LASH TREATEMENTS SUNBEDS & TANNING HAIRDRESSING & Much more...

La Unique, 103 Luton Road, Harpenden AL5 3BB | Tel: 01582 460900 or 01582 452424 Email: launiqueharpenden@gmail.com | www.launique.co.uk

introducing cryotheraphy to La unique the rejuvenation of body & mind

From enhanced recovery in athletes to tightening of the skin and reduction of cellulite for the health & beauty conscious! our cryotheraphy chamber use cold air to provide total body and mind rejuvenation though bodies natural response to intense cold.

Weight Loss • Rapid reduction of muscle inflammation and soreness • Anti Aging Reduction of cellulite • strengthen immune system • pain relief call now for a FREE consULATion Wrinkle relaxing injection, dermal fillers and special events coming up soon, check website for info

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Friday 28th February discounted £20 on the day (1 session) discounted packages (available) 6-9pm Refreshments & Goodie bags

La Unique, 103 Luton Road, Harpenden AL5 3BB | Tel: 01582 460900 or 01582 452424 Email: launiqueharpenden@gmail.com | www.launique.co.uk

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

CREATING BRIGITTE BARDOT’S ICONIC BOUFFANT HAIRSTYLE The French film star’s famous ‘do is as popular today as it was in the 1950s.

W

hen it comes to famous hair styles throughout history, has their ever been a more influential ‘do than Brigitte Bardot’s?

While cuts like Mary Quant’s sharp pixie crop or Jennifer Aniston’s The Rachel may come and go, the Bardot bouffant looks as cool now as it did when the French movie star shot to fame in the 1950s.

Now, a new range of products from the Brigitte Bardot Foundation aims to help you get the movie star look - whether you’re blonde or not.

“Tousled, teased, textured... Bardot had the finest bedhead that ever was,” says hairstylist and Bardot ambassador Paul Herrington.

“With modern relevance, Bardot’s iconic look has been emulated by successive generations of supermodels like Claudia Schiffer, Giselle Bundchen, and Kate Moss.”

Combining a bouffant shape at the crown of the head and loose, messy waves, the style gives volume to the locks while framing the face.

So how’s it done? Here, Emmanuel Esteban, session stylist at Salon Sloane, offers a step by step guide on how to create the iconic Brigitte Bardot look...

60 APRIL 2020

1. Starting with clean, damp hair, spray with Bardot Lift + Volume Spray (£19, Pretty Little Thing) on the roots to give enough lift and achieve natural body, then spray heat protection on midlengths to ends.

2. Dry your hair upside down using a paddle brush (I like to use natural bristle brushes) with downward strokes ensuring you are smoothing the cuticle and creating volume on the roots.

3. Once hair is dry, divide it into two sections.

First, the top section of hair from the temples to the nape of the neck. The second section is the rest of your hair.

4. On the lower part of your head spray with Bardot Texture Spray (£19, Pretty Little Thing) at least six inches away from your head and curl in large sections using a curling wand to achieve a wavy, textured, messy look.

5. On the top section, curl your hair with a large barrelled tong starting from the back of your head, sectioning horizontally through to the front towards your face focusing on achieving root lift.

6. Backcomb the very top section of your hair.

Start with gentle combing at the front, gradually building up the volume towards the back, including the crown - this will create the Bardot bouffant shape. Then spray lightly with hairspray. Brush all of your hair gently with a paddle brush.

7. Without being precise, take the top part of your hair and pin it at the back of your head to achieve a half up-half down look - secure the pin pushing upwards to create more volume. To finish the look, pull out fine pieces of hair around your face to frame it.

Come to a free introductory consultation with a qualified therapist in Stevenage/ Welwyn Garden City

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H OME & PROPERTY

[NEWS]

INTERIORS INDUSTRIAL CHIC

A trendy industrial leather and iron dining chair that would look great in a loft style setting. This dining chair features a tubular iron frame which is coloured black to complement the leather upholstery. The vertical channel tufted design with stitched detail gives the chair a cool vintage look. www.decoville.co.uk

SPRING SALE AT FISHPOOLS

Fishpools are excited to announce that the Spring Sale is now on. With up to 25% off across all departments including on-trend furniture, dining, flooring and accessories, there has never been a better time to refresh your home. Fishpools has over 120 years’ experience of serving customers with excellent quality products, renowned brands and a variety of styles, all with an impeccable, personalised service from their experts. Shop the sale on Fishpools website, or alternatively take a look around their 62,000 square foot showroom in Waltham Cross. Pictured: Kew Low Footend Bed Frame 135cm WAS £1099 NOW £769. www.fishpools.co.uk

call of the wild

WE LOVE

This Birds Of Paradise Wall Paper byPlum Retail Ltd. www.plumretail.com

FROM THE FUTURE

Contemporary bisque porcelain LED table lamps, from “Earth to Humanity” collection from Portuguese luxury brand Vista Alegre.

A striking innovative design, inspired by the logic and beauty of nature. www.micucci.co.uk 64 APRIL 2020

We absolutely love these Ceramic vases available in zebra, cheetah and giraffe designs! By Ella James and shipped globally. www.ellajames.co.uk

tick tock

We’re all slaves to time, but now it’s on your terms with these stylish Brick Click Clocks. Just click your fingers or gently tap your bedside table and the time will appear and looks like the time is magically floating on these lovely bricks. No longer does your room have to be illuminated by a constant blinking digital glow, nor do you have to fumble to find your smartphone in the darkness.

The Brick Click Clock can display the time, date and temperature alternatively or you can also set it on permanent time display. www.plumretail.com

H OME & PROPERTY

Kelvin LED Table Lamp by Flos, £315

Get To Work On Your Home Office With Our 2020 Style Guide Words by: Anna Howell, Chaplins

Beetle Swivel Chair

by Gubi, £1,131

Interiors Editor

I

t’s no secret that the world of work is changing. With the rise of co-working and freelancing, it’s now possible to get down to business in just about any location.

And yet if we’ve learnt anything from the sterile interiors of the early 90s, it’s that environment matters. Recent studies suggest that a well-designed space can lead to significant boosts in productivity and cognitive function — quantitative evidence of the “feel-good” factor of great design.

With 50% of the UK now working remotely at least once a week, creating a functional home office has become an essential task if we wish to maintain boundaries between work and play.

Here at Chaplins, we’ve been giving it some thought and have come up with our Home Office Style Guide to help you get it right first time.

Plan Like An Executive When designing your home office, it’s good to take some time to visualise how everything will work together. Don’t forget to incorporate some sort of breakout zone — a space in which to think or read when you’re not obliged to be sat behind a keyboard.

In smaller offices, this could be as simple as a generous pouf. In larger homes, a small sofa, armchair or (if you’re feeling particularly psychoanalytic) chaise lounge. Incorporating these elements ensures your office is a space you’ll actually enjoy spending time in, while accommodating for both active and passive work.

66 APRIL 2020

Wolf Keramik Desk by Cattelan Italia, £1,757

Are You Sitting Comfortably?

While the majority of offices are characterised by orthopaedic-looking chairs, designers have a long history of producing statement styles.

Some of the best date back to the mid-century, including iconic collections such as the Eames Aluminium Range and Knoll’s Executive Saarinen collection. Both offer top-notch ergonomics and a timeless design language to boot.

Sustainable design lovers might also want to consider Vitra’s N02 Recycled Office Chair — crafted entirely from circular polypropylene and recycled aluminium. Lightweight and compact, it’s a great choice for those who are short on space.

No More Boring Desk Jobs A great desk is the backbone of any contemporary

THE DETAILS 477-507 Uxbridge Road, HA5 4JS www.chaplins.co.uk 020 8421 1179

home office. And whether small or stately, there are a variety of exciting options.

For homes in which every square inch counts, look for compact desks with clean lines, hidden storage and handy charging points. In order to maximise the available floor space, opt for a chair with a lithe base like Gubi’s Beetle Swivel Chair.

If space isn’t an issue, you can experiment with bold sweeping desks such as Zanotta’s Cavour or Cattelan Italia’s Wall Street — each offering a real interior power play.

Where you position your desk is equally important.

If your home office benefits from lots of direct sunlight, be sure to orient your desk so that any screens aren’t out of action for portions of the day.

Experimenting with layout can also affect how you experience your space. Try to avoid being cramped up against walls where possible. One option is to float your desk in the centre of the room, creating a focal point that will compel you to sit down and get things done.

Doo-Wop Pendant Light by Louis Poulsen Eames EA 108 Aluminium Chair by Vitra, £1,760

Make Light Work of Your Daily Tasks Modern task lighting is another must for any productive home office. As well as allowing you to work into the evening, it’ll help create a snug and inviting atmosphere – the perfect place to ponder all those frustrated souls on their morning commute.

If your work involves sketching, drawing or examining projects, you’ll want to opt for a versatile lamp that allows you to shape and direct the light.

Artemide’s Tolomeo and Flos’ Kelvin collections are particularly revered in this regard.

For laptop-based work, any lamp that provides a soft gush of down-ward illumination will do the trick.

If you don’t quite have room for a table lamp on your desk, consider experimenting with some strategically hung pendant lights. We love Louis Poulsen’s PH 5 and Doo-Wop Collections for office spaces.

Master The Art of Storage

Air Desk by Gallotti & Radice, From £1,392

Clutter can come in many forms. But whether it’s an overflowing inbox or a mass grave of admin, the effect is equally draining. Finding the right storage will help you keep your home office organised and a joyous place to work.

Before diving in, it’s wise to think about how accessible the documents that need storing will need to be. If they are items that you refer to constantly, then some linear shelving might be preferable to under-desk units or sideboards.

One of the most flexible options available is USM’S Haller system. Modular in nature, it can be added to or subtracted from in accordance to your needs, making it ideal for homes of all sizes.

Need some additional help planning your contemporary home office? Be sure to make an appointment with our friendly design team and take advantage of our INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICE at Chaplins.

APRIL 2020 67

H OME & PROPERTY

Hand Forging Magic In Hertfordshire…

T

ucked away in the quiet, quaint Chiltern Hill’s is the ever-evolving Elliott of London studio. Behind the doors are a small team of craftsmen creating some of the most enticing sculptures.

On one of the workshop benches, one of the clever team is creating a stunning copper rose, another is working one of the unique & quirky commissions that have come in for the team to sink their teeth into. There is a busy hype in the workshop today & the studio is ramping up for their up & coming Spring Studio Open Day. Elliott of London was created & founded by Charles Elliott, who is now an internationally renowned British sculptor making a serious mark on the scene & industry. Charles works closely with his small team of dedicated craftsmen to push the boundaries, crafting bespoke handmade bronze & metal sculptures.

Charles’s passion to break sculptor boundaries is clear & I’m looking forward to attending the Spring Studio Open Day to see what new creations they have.

The Spring Studio Open Day is open to everyone, the gates will open Saturday 4th April & Sunday 5th April at 9.30am – 4.30pm both days.

Not only will you be able see all the sculptures up close & personal, there will be a selection of

68 APRIL 2020

local stalls with handmade crafts, gifts & local made goodies.

There will demonstrations, displays & talks through out the day so you can see Charles & the team in action, purchases & commission conversations will be welcomed throughout the day.

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

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Tel: 0800 112 3920 / 0333 577 3920 Caxton Point, Caxton Way, Stevenage, Herts, SG1 2XU

H OME & PROPERTY

Hertfordshire DrivewayS Ltd ARE proud to be endorsed by Which? Trusted Traders

A

void being stung by a rogue trader with Which? advice on the common practices they employ, plus inside tips on hiring a reliable trader. From doorstep scammers to sloppy builders, rogue traders can catch you out in a number of ways. Here, we reveal the tricks they use to reel you in, and explain how to find a trader who’s trustworthy. We’ve all heard stories of unscrupulous traders knocking on old people’s doors, claiming that work needs to be done, then swiftly making off with hundreds of pounds without having done any work. Unfortunately, these aren’t urban myths. Between August 2017 and July 2018, Action Fraud recorded 7,085 cases of people being defrauded by doorstep sellers and bogus tradespeople, while Citizens Advice logged 73,861 home improvement-related queries and issues from July 2017 to June 2018. We’ve spoken to the expert trader assessors at Which? Trusted Traders,

as well as our reliable traders themselves, to get the inside track on the common practices dodgy traders employ. Jump to how to find a trusted trader for insider tips on questions to ask, actions to take and ways to protect yourself in case any problems arise.

If you’re looking for a reliable trader, visit Which?

Trusted Traders, where we do the hard work for you. All our registered traders are put through extensive assessments and background checks.

Rogue trader tricks All our assessors at Which? Trusted Traders are ex-Trading Standards, so have years of experience in spotting a dodgy trader. We asked them for the lowdown on the signs to look out for. Which? members can log in to reveal the telltale signs and tricks that suggest a trader is not to be trusted. If you’re not yet a Which? member, get instant access by joining Which? now. You’ll also get access to our list of the most prevalent doors-stop scams and lax trader behaviours homeowners have had to deal with.

Cold-calling traders Rogue traders often operate by cold calling. When we asked 1,645 Which? members (June/July 2018)

70 APRIL 2020

“If you’re looking for a reliable trader, visit Which? Trusted Traders, where we do the hard work for you”

whether they or a relative had ever had someone claiming to be a trader call out of the blue or turn up unannounced at their door, 52% had. 14% lost trust in traders and 8% suffered emotional distress as a result. 52% The percentage of people who have had someone call out of the blue or turn up unannounced at their door Any home improvement opportunities that can be seen from the road can be a possible target for a doorstop scammer, who may lie about or exaggerate work that needs to be done. This could include driveway repaving, garden landscaping or window reglazing. Log in or join Which? to see the eight home improvement jobs most commonly suggested by cold-calling traders.

Criminals employ a range of tactics to target the vulnerable. This includes looking for homes with tired exteriors, where elderly relatives are more likely to live, and residents with typically older names. Some work together by discreetly marking the pavement outside the houses of those recently scammed, or circulating ‘suckers’ lists on the black market. It’s not just someone knocking on the door that you should be cautious of - take leaflets put through your letterbox with a pinch of salt, too.

This is another way in which cowboy traders try to reel you in, making misleading or false claims and using scare tactics, particularly around home security. If you’re being pestered by cold calls, visit our guide to nuisance calls to find out how to put a stop to them, and head to how to find a trusted trader for advice on responding to cold callers coming to your door.

Common dodgy trader practices Fraudsters misleading someone into handing over money and then disappearing is the more extreme end of the rogue trader scale. But there are plenty of other unacceptable practices that can be costly and infuriating for homeowners. We spoke to nearly 300* of our Which? Trusted Traders about the negligent practices that they have seen in their line

of work. Log in to find out what they are. If you’ve been let down, visit our page on what to do if you have a dispute with a trader for advice on how to reach a resolution.

“Criminals employ a range of tactics to target the vulnerable.”

Sole traders vs big companies It’s not just one-man bands that can prove problematic for consumers. Our Which? Legal team also receives complaints about the installation services of big-name brands. We survey customers to find out what they make of the kitchen and bathroom companies they use. Our customer scores, which are based on how satisfied customers are with brands and whether they’d recommend them to a friend, show what people think of big kitchen and bathroom companies’ fitting services.

Logged in Which? members can see our full kitchen and bathroom reviews, with ratings for well-known brands including John Lewis, B&Q, Ikea and Homebase. There can be advantages to using a big company over a lone ranger. Retailers are more likely to have a complaints procedure in place, and be part of an dispute resolution scheme, both of which can be very helpful if something does go wrong. They’re usually in a better financial position, or have more assets, so there can be a greater chance of getting your money back if they fall short of expectations. Plus, there’s less risk of them disappearing into thin air when a complaint is made.

How to find a trader you can trust To reveal our list of top tips from ex-Trading Standards experts and Which? Trusted traders, Which? members can log in. If you’re not yet a Which? member, get instant access by joining Which?. You’ll get access to all our member-only advice and thousands of product reviews. *In June/July 2018 we spoke to 292 Which? Trusted traders about the negligent practices that they have seen in their line of work. www.trustedtraders.which.co.uk To arrange a free survey and written quotation call 0800 112 3920 / 0333 577 3920 or visit us at www.hertfordshiredriveways.com MARCH 2020 71

H OME & PROPERTY

Holiday At Home

F

rom flip flops and sunnies to brollies and wellies, our constant changing weather often dampens the enjoyment from the outdoor space, which is why clients when designing gardens are keen for covered areas that provide flexible shade and shelter, enabling them to make the most of their outdoor space.

Caribbean Blinds, the pre-eminent name in external shading, have been designing, manufacturing and installing for over 30 years, the very finest external shading systems that transform the use, functionality and enjoyment from all types of spaces. From stylish patio awnings that provide instant shade and shelter to innovative external blinds that offer unbeatable heat and light control to their award winning pergola, with opening and closing aluminium louvered roofs that enable year round use of the outdoor space, Caribbean Blinds has the perfect external shading system for every application, requirement and budget.

Louvered roof pergolas marketed under the exclusive brand - Outdoor Living PodTM from Caribbean Blinds are the ultimate luxury outdoor living solution and as the name suggests they are designed for people who want to live life outdoors.

Their Prestige Outdoor Living PodTM is the pinnacle of Caribbean Blinds range and one of the most sought after terrace coverings on the market thanks to its ingenious design. Not only do the roof louvers on this innovative pergola canopy rotate allowing your to play with light and shade, but they slide completely open for maximum sunlight and the open air alfresco lifestyle. And when the louvers are closed, the roof is completely water, wind and even snow tight.

Options including windproof screens to the

72 APRIL 2020

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sides, ambient LED perimeter lighting and instant infra-red heaters ensure a cosy and pleasant environment on the terrace all year round.

And like all their louvered roofs, it’s constructed from super strong, corrosion resistant, powdercoated aluminium for durability and longevity along with being low maintenance and features clean streamline lines with concealed fixings and integrated motors, plus even colour co-ordinated stitching on the optional side screens – the standard finishing touches and attention to detail you can expect from a premium Caribbean Blinds products.

From open to closed at the touch of a button no other garden room offers the same flexibility and possibilities Caribbean Blinds Outdoor Living PodTM can. Perfect for outdoor lounging and dining along with housing hot tubs, swimspas plus outdoor kitchens and even gyms, the Outdoor Living PodTM has endless functions and uses.

Be inspired and discover first hand the superior features and benefits of owning an all weather Outdoor Living PodTM by visiting Caribbean Blinds showsite in Sudbury, Suffolk. Discuss your requirements with their knowledgeable team and be inspired about how you can create your very own slice of paradise in your garden.

Caribbean Blinds UK Ltd 0344 800 1947 info@cbsolarshading.co.uk www.cbsolarshading.co.uk Head Office, Factory & Showsite: Woodhall Business Park, Sudbury, Suffolk. CO10 1WH

H OME & PROPERTY

Winter market buoyancy defies expectations at Royal Connaught Park

A

ny expectations of winter doldrums in the property market have been dashed in the aftermath of December’s election, as scores of interested purchasers have visited the newly-available homes at Grade II listed, Royal Connaught Park in Bushey.

The electoral strength of the new government and confidence that it will serve a full term has impacted directly on sales. Purchasers range from younger ‘professional’ families to older retired downsizers as well as those seeking a second home. Many buyers are seeking secure properties that can be ‘locked up and left’, giving them the flexibility to live wherever their work takes them.

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

Living at Royal Connaught Park feels as it would 74 APRIL 2020

if you were enjoying your own private manor house or Oxbridge College. You can sense the reassurance of a gated development with 24-hour security personnel, CCTV and video entry systems, while all the homes benefit from a range of wellappointed amenities neatly integrated into the refurbished buildings; there is a private gym, sauna, swimming pool, and tennis courts. A privatelychauffered courtesy coach provides nearly instant access to and from local railway stations and to shopping centres such as the billion-poundrefurbished Intu Watford.

All the apartments in the Nova Collection have terraces or balconies and of course you can roam within 100 acres of private parkland too. So, your active, outdoor lifestyle is assured both on site and nearby with facilities such as The Grove renowned for its Championship golf course and luxurious spa.

Both Yale and Harvard House, as well as properties to be released later in the Spring, benefit from direct lift access down to Royal Connaught Park’s extensive underground car park. The lift surfaces directly into the buildings’ communal areas almost straight outside individual apartments, providing maximum convenience with no damp shopping on wet days.

The interior layout and specification of apartments simply makes no compromise on style, technology and high-quality floor and tile finishes.

Attention to detail is obvious, from underfloor heating to bathroom fittings and kitchen choice.

As well as the newly-built homes in the Nova Collection, there are also just two properties still available for sale in the refurbished, ‘recreated’ historic buildings; one town house and a threebedroom gallery apartment.

The site is a wonderful ‘green lung’ in Bushey, yet is well-located, reaching Central London (fast to Euston station) in just 18 mins, and with the thriving centres of Bushey, Radlett and St Albans nearby. Quick and easy road links close by include the M25, M1 and M40 and Heathrow and Luton airports are easily accessible.

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

H OME & PROPERTY

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St AlbAnS Showroom 27 Soothouse Spring Valley Rd Ind Area St Albans Hertfordshire Mon-Sat: 0730 - 1700 T: 01727 836789

76 APRIL 2020

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H OME & PROPERTY

Little Masons

Woodville RoaD, New Barnet, EN5

‘L

ittle Masons’ is a new development of just 4 delightful apartments, 1 x 2 bedroom ground floor with own garden, 1 x 3 bedroom ground floor with own garden, and 2 x 2 bedroom first floor duplex apartments with their own gardens. The ground floor apartments have direct access to their own individual garden, and all apartments have been completed to a high standard of finish and offer many individual features.

Prices From £525,000

Please contact our Barnet Office on 020 8449 3383

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From Cottages to Country Estates FOR OUR EXTENSIVE RANGE OF PROPERTIES FOR SALE, PLEASE VISIT WWW.STATONS.COM

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FH Beautifully Presented Detached Family Home 4 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 3 Reception Rooms Indoor Swimming Pool & Leisure Area Mature Rear Garden

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hadley Wood office 020 8440 9797

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H OME & PROPERTY

Eco-Swim Indoor Pool for under £170,000* - Coming soon!

T he team at Origin have been hard at work and are excited to announce our much anticipated new indoor pool ‘Eco-Swim range’ is about to be launched. This modern and hassle free style aims to give you a variety of choices and sizes that show the best of Origin and bring your dream of owning an indoor swimming pool to life. The stylish Eco-Swim range offers an amazing fully heated indoor pool with a state of the art pool lining system and contemporary internal finish.

Features: • Contemporary design • Eco friendly credentials • Low energy LED lighting • Modern and hygienic pool finish

An Origin natural timber building is made from fully renewable sources and blends beautifully into a garden setting, helping you feel at one with nature.

We’re also putting our best green foot forward and incorporating sustainable and eco friendly elements in our most economical design yet. This new design is not only good for the environment but it will save you time and money in the long run due to its excellent insulation values. The pool comes with our easy clean filtration system to keep the water sparkling, with a low chemical sanitation system that gives you clean, warm water perfect for everyday swimming. The pool house includes fully porcelain tiled floors, giving you that feeling of luxury every time you step out of your pool.

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Owning an Origin pool is about more than just the pool itself, it’s about the lifestyle that comes with it and with the Eco-Swim range you get all that and more.Your swimming pool and pool house can become a centre of wellness and exercise for everyone to enjoy. Swimming is an incredible form of exercise with a long list of health benefits, both mental and physical.

Many of our clients come to us because they’re looking for a space to completely relax in and we at Origin understand this can take a different form for everyone. You can tailor your pool to your needs, whether you need an entertaining space, a bar area or somewhere for the children to play. Origin have been helping customers realise their dreams for over 40 years, let us help you with yours. www.originpools.co.uk * Includes VAT and terms and conditions apply

“Owning an Origin pool is about more than just the pool itself, it’s about the lifestyle that comes with it and with the Eco-Swim range you get all that and more”

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H OME & PROPERTY

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